River Cruising on the Danube

Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus Family of Brands, are a world leader in river cruising. I travelled aboard the Avalon Tranquility on Europe’s longest river, the stately Danube, from Budapest in Hungary to Bratislava in Slovakia, to Vienna in Austria and on to Melk in the Wachau Valley. The Avalon Tranquility was – true to its name – a relaxing and well-appointed base from which to explore some of the unique sights of Central Europe.

Budapest, Hungary

Two thousand years of history underpin a vibrant, modern European capital in this romantic city of the Danube. Pest, on the flat east side of the river, covers the modern heart of the city, including Heroes’ Square which commemorates Hungary’s millennium. Buda, on the hilly west side, contains the scenic Castle District with its glorious view of the Parliament Building, as well as good shopping for local crafts.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Capital of Slovakia (which as created in 1993 from the old Czechoslovakia), Bratislava has a very walkable medieval city core with picturesque, narrow and winding streets and arches overlooked by an imposing castle. The Novy most bridge over the Danube boasts a restaurant high above the river.

Vienna, Austria

Arriving in this great old imperial city of the Hapsburg Empire by river is a fitting way of entering a rich historical tapestry of one of the world’s great cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Grand boulevards lead to grander sights, such as St Stephen’s Cathedral. Shopping is wonderful and the best chocolate cake in the world is the Sachertorte at Café Sacher – so, naturally, I couldn’t resist this treat!

Melk, Vienna

Nearly 90km upriver from Vienna lies the small riverside town of Melk, full of 16th and 17th century buildings. But its crowning glory, and part of another UNESCO World Heritage site, is its Benedictine Abbey. Sitting on a bluff overlooking the town below, this 18th century Baroque masterpiece is divine…from its courtyards and galleries to its towers and Abbey Church.

The River Danube

The Danube is Europe’s mightiest river. Over its 2,860 km, it flows through ten countries from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea in Romania. It also provides a perfect way for travelers to experience the heart of Europe. From early morning mists to glorious sunsets, I enjoyed watching the scenery glide slowly by. My favourite section: the Wachau Valley in Austria. And my thanks to Avalon Waterways and their hospitable team for introducing me to the wonderful world of river cruising.

Saguenay Fjord

The scenic highlight of this cruise was the stunning, glacier carved gash in the earth's crust, known as the Saguenay Fjord. Imposing mountainsides plunge into huge depths on either side. Belugas glide by, mists wrap around vertical forests where eagles perch high above you....... and the kayaking is unforgettable. As was the week aboard the Caledonia. My thanks to Canadian Sailing expeditions for this unique experience.

Tadoussac

The picture perfect town of Tadoussac is perched where the Saguenay Fjord meets the broad St Lawrence. Whale watching is wonderful here. I encountered Beluga, Minke, and Finback. Other highlights: biking, hiking and sand dunes on a grand scale - all so accessible from our base on the Caledonia. And after exploring on shore .... back on board for a fabulous meal featuring local produce and cuisine.

The Tall Ship Caledonia

The Caledonia is a magnificent vessel, especially when the sails are up. The crew are Canadian and besides being skilled sailors, they are also genial mentors to passengers who wish to participate in sailing the ship and even climbing the rigging.....

In Summer you can sail on the Caledonia on several Canadian itineraries in Quebec and Atlantic Canada. In the winter Caledonia heads south to island hop around the Caribbean.

Canadian Sailing Expeditions

This trip on the biggest tall ship in Canada started amidst the excitement of Quebec's 400th anniversary celebrations. Fellow passengers were an affable mixture of Canadians and Americans, sailors and land lubbers..... One of the most pleasant aspects of small ship cruising is the opportunity to mix with like minded travellers and form bonds with your fellow passnegers.