Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/27/2012 -- Uniworld River Cruises has just announced that they will be adding Italy to their spring sailings of 2013.

The 13 day sailings will be called 'Splendours of Italy' and the itinerary combines a seven night cruise along the Po River and the Venice Lagoon and finishes up with a two-night stay in Florence and three nights in Rome.

Chris Fundell, Uniworld's Marketing Manager said: "We wanted to give travellers the option to do a cruise-only or a cruise and land programme offering additional time in two of the world's best known and loved cities, Florence and Rome."

The idea of these new Italian ventures is designed to entice guests with an array of culture, history, art, music, cuisine, landscapes and culture so they can thoroughly enjoy a host of aspects with Uniworld River Cruises new Italian programme.

"Not only are we allowing our guests to be able to come up and close with the iconic sites of Venice, Rome and Florence, but they will also get the chance to explore 'off the beaten path' places where the masses wouldn't normally go."

"We are adding places such as the World Heritage Site of Ravenna and Romeo and Juliets town of Verona as well."

As standard with Uniworld, they will be introducing a whole host of culinary delights throughout the journey not only at dinner, but workshops will also be available.

Uniworld plans to move the River Countess from the Rhine, Main and Danube to the Po River in 2013.

Chris added: "While this is a costly venture to move her, it's the right decision as we wanted to provide our clients with another world-class destination, especially as many of our past guests have been asking for us to offer cruises in this area."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/13/2012 -- Viking River Cruises have announced plans to extend their company by branching out into the ocean cruising sector.

Viking Cruises, which is the largest river cruise company in Europe, has already put the wheels in motion by ordering a pair of 40,000 gross ton cruise ships from the STX French shipyard.

The crunch certainly doesn't seem to be affecting this travel company as they have just ordered eight more river cruise vessels and with ocean liners on the horizon, they only look set to expand.

These stylish ocean liners will be ready for 2014 and as they are smaller than most ocean ships, the cruise line looks to be aiming their ships towards the luxury market carrying just 888 passengers.

The ships have been described as destination oriented, aiming towards the luxury market with passengers from the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia all being targeted. They are also looking to appeal to their current river passengers who, the company hopes, will cross over into ocean cruising.

View the full Viking Cruise itinerary here: http://www.rivervoyages.com/river-cruise-line/viking-river-cruises/

A spokesman for Viking Ocean Cruises said: "This is an exciting time for us as we branch out into this new sector. We will be calling this area of the company 'Viking Ocean Cruises' and hopefully attract a whole host of new passengers as well as our current river cruise guests.

The brand new river cruise ships that have been added are being named 'Viking Aegir', 'Viking Embla', 'Viking Freya' and 'Viking Odin' and each carrying just 190 guests, offering full verandas or French balconies.

Viking River Cruises currently has 25 ships in Europe, Russia and China and was recently named River Cruise Line of the Year in both the Cruise International Awards and the British Travel Awards and also in the Cruise Critic Editor's Picks. Viking Ocean has an option for the construction of a third cruise ship, for delivery in 2016.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Viking River Cruises has requested two additional ships in the Longships class for delivery in 2012.

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/23/2011 -- Responding to the current demand, the two ships will be part of the new Viking Longship class – this will bring the total of ships set to launch next year to six. The two ships will be named Viking Aegir and the Viking Embla - and will each carry 190 passengers.

The two new ships will be part of Viking's $250 million fleet-redevelopment program. The program includes refurbishment of Viking's existing ships and the introduction of 10 Longships by 2014.

Entering service in July and August 2012, The Viking Aegir and the Viking Embla will join the previously announced four longships: Freya, Idun, Njord and Odin - all of which will are to be launched in March 2012.

What's more, the ships are being designed by Yran & Storbraaten - the team behind the Yachts of Seabourn; guests can expect state-of-the-art engineering, stylish design and the utmost comfort.

For the full Viking River Cruises itinerary, please see http://www.rivervoyages.com/river-cruise-line/viking-river-cruises/

Featuring 95 spacious staterooms, the Longships will include two Explorer suites complete with private wraparound verandas, seven Veranda suites and 39 Veranda staterooms - featuring floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors.

The vessels will also have the Aquavit Terrace - an indoor-outdoor lounge space and al fresco dining on the upper decks. Environmentally friendly features will be in place too, including energy-efficient hybrid engines, solar panels and an organic herb garden on the large sun deck.

Mal Barritt, director of cruises.com – the world's largest cruise company – says "It's fantastic that Viking River Cruises will introduce two more longships in 2012 – the response so far has been overwhelming – so this will certainly help accommodate demand."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) --11/21/2011 -- Uniworld River Cruises has won the highly prestigious award of Best River Cruise line in the world by Conde Nast Traveler in the annual Readers' Choice Awards.

The river cruise line has been recognised in Conde Nast Traveler's Readers Poll and Gold List since 2007, which is quite an achievement. Each of the Cruise lines was rated out of 100. Uniworld River Cruises scored an incredible 90.3 – which put it well ahead of its competitors.

Mal Barritt, director of cruises.com – the world's largest cruise company – says "What an outstanding achievement this is for Uniworld River Cruises. To be recognised in the Conde Nast Traveler's Readers Poll and Gold List for 4 years on the run really does say it all."

"Achieving a staggering 90.3 out of 100 in this year's awards is quite something. Having experienced a Uniworld voyage myself, the cruise line certainly ticks all the right boxes. From the exceptional service, dining to the accommodation, it's a first class experience from start to finish" Barritt added.

The world's only boutique cruise line, Uniworld River Cruises offers itineraries throughout Europe, Egypt, Russia and China. The river cruise line is set to launch into Vietnam and Cambodia in January 2012.

View the full Uniworld line itinerary here: http://www.rivervoyages.com/river-cruise-line/uniworld-river-cruises/

Each of the 14 ships in the Uniworld fleet offers comfortable accommodation, exceptional service and fine dining. Uniworld ships include Douro Spirit, River Ambassador, River Princess, River Empress and River Royale.

There are unique facilities on-board the Uniworld River Cruise ships – such as river cruising's first ever 20-seater cinema, which features on the S.S. Antoinette - which was launched in March this year.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Avalon River Cruises have seen a 15% increase in customers booking a Christmas market cruise this festive period.

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/17/2011 -- Avalon River Cruises suggest that the increase in bookings is due to Brits wanting to escape the shopping frenzy which Christmas creates.

A spokesperson for river cruise specialist, Avalon Waterways said: "The trend in Christmas markets has grown significantly because our customers don't want a stressful shopping experience this year and these markets offer something a little bit different than what you might find in Debenhams.'

Avalon River Cruises are offering sailings through Basel, Switzerland, Strasbourg, Rhine and Germany and guests can enjoy a week exploring traditional Christmas markets and traditional on board Christmas celebrations.

James Cole, Director of Rivervoyages.com said: "Over the past 5 years Christmas shopping in Britain has become a nightmare and with cruise lines such as Avalon River Cruises offering sailings to Europe's most popular Christmas markets, it really does come as no surprise that customers are looking to go somewhere a little different for their Christmas shopping.'

"A river Christmas market cruise is a great way to see the sights and sound of Europe and discover the origins of Christmas in these quaint towns along the river. The kind of presents that you can purchase from these markets is one of the main attractions, with handicrafts, hand-made candles, and wooden toys to name just a few!"

To view the complete itinerary visit: http://www.rivervoyages.com/river-cruise-line/avalon-waterways/

The river cruise market has risen by 8% since 2009 and popularity continues to grow with river Christmas markets having a direct impact in this growth.

A spokesperson for Avalon Waterways added: "Our Christmas market cruising has been extremely popular this year and it has certainly helped in the growth of the river cruise industry. We have sold so many Christmas market cruises that we have already added more for 2012."

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/02/2011 -- Not only are Viking River Cruises the world's largest cruise line, they're blessed with a Viking heritage too - so it comes as no surprise that they want to embrace it. And what better way than refurbishing four of their Russian ships in order to reflect this intriguing past?

Dubbed long boats by Viking River Cruises, the ships will show off their transformation in the summer of 2012. As well as being completely refurbished, each of the ships will be renamed after the original Russian explorers, Viking Rurik, Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor – just another way Viking River Cruises are choosing to celebrate their rich Viking heritage by.

A glimpse into a rich past…
Viking River Cruises will be introducing a whole host of fascinating itineraries for 2012 too. An unforgettable journey to unearth the treasures of Russia… there's a lot to look forward to on one of these cruises. Sailing smoothly along Russia's waterways to great cities like Moscow and St Petersburg, a river voyage not only takes you there – but gives you enough time to explore and visit the famous landmarks too.

Highlights include Moscow's 'Kremlin' and 'Red Square'; and St Petersburg's 'Pushkin' and 'Peter and Paul Fortress'.

Offering passengers to get up close to Russia's cities, Viking River Cruise's also gives guests the opportunity to visit the ancient villages - like Yaroslavl, Uglich and Mandrogy. Viking River Cruises really do offer the perfect way to learn about the history and culture of Russia's heartland.

Other new features for 2012
As well as refurbished ships and new itineraries, passengers can look forward to a variety of new excursions, to make their river voyage even more special. For example, on select departures, Viking will host special performances by musicians from St. Petersburg's Mariinsky Theatre.

Other highlights include a visit to Moscow's Military Museum.
Yet another new addition to Viking River Cruises is an eight day program 'The Glories of Hermitage'. A truly interesting program, it will give guests exclusive access and a tour of one of the greatest museums in the world, the 'Hermitage Museum'. Found in St Petersburg, the museum is home to a collection of Russian art and artefacts, it's a truly remarkable place to visit – and a must for art lovers.

Viking River Cruises' other offerings include new on board programs and services such as the Viking's Concierge Services and Viking's signature on-deck 'A Taste Of…' event - where a selection of Russian cuisine, like Siberian pelmeni (ravioli) and borscht can be enjoyed – passengers will get a true taste of Russia.

See Russia before you sail
Offering a wondering insight into the both sides that Russia has to offer, Viking River Cruises has launched a new micro-site TheRealRussia.com. Hosted by the daughter of Torstein, Viking River Cruises' founder, the innovative site takes online visitors on a video tour of the country - so to experience a real insider's tour of Russia – it's the next best thing to being on a river cruise itself.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Viking River Cruises have announced a 12 month partnership with Cancer Research UK after a vote by customers of the river cruise specialist.

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) --11/01/2011 -- The river cruise line – whose ships include the Viking Sun and Viking Emerald – has arranged various fundraising activities in a bid to raise as much funding as possible for the charity.

Viking River Cruise staff recently took part in the Shine London 2011 overnight 13 mile walk on Saturday 1st October 2011 in a bid to help Cancer Research - and raised £845.66 for the charity in the process. Viking staff has also raised money through charity fun day activities including a fancy dress competition.

For the full Viking Sun cruise itinerary, please see see RiverVoyages.com.

Mal Barritt, director of Cruises.com, says "It's fantastic to seeing a river cruise line dedicated to raising funds for such a worthwhile cause like Cancer Research. To date, Viking River Cruises has done incredibly well to raise funds – and will no doubt raise a lot more during their partnership with the charity."

The world's leading river cruise company, Viking River Cruises offer river cruises to the rivers of Europe, Russia, China and Southeast Asia.

Viking River Cruises has been recognised as the World's Leading River Cruise Operator at the World Travel Awards and the best River Cruise Line at the British Travel Awards.

Founded in 1997, Viking River Cruise operates the world's largest - and leading - fleet of luxury vessels built with river travel in mind.

Viking River Cruises' ships include the Viking Sun, Viking Europe and Viking Fontane. In 2012, Viking will debut four sister ships in Europe – and another six Viking ships are to be built by 2014.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Chorley, Lancashire -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/19/2011 -- Viking River Cruises', the world's leading cruise line, has announced that the next phase of their $250 million fleet development programme will be completed by summer 2012.

A major fleet development programme, by 2013 Viking River Cruises will have several refurbishments – as well as the introduction of 10 brand new ships. The first phase to be finished was the Viking Emerald and Viking Prestige in 2011. The next phase for completion is the four ships in 2012.

A complete refurbishment, the four Viking ships will be renamed Viking Rurik, Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor.

View the full Viking fleet here: http://www.rivervoyages.com/river-cruise-line/viking-river-cruises/

Scheduled to sail four of Viking's most popular European itineraries, including the 10-day Tulips & Windmills, 8-day Romantic Danube, 15-day Grand European Tour and 8-day Danube Waltz. And there will be more Christmas market cruises added for late 2012.

Mal Barritt, director of cruise 118 says "We're excited about Viking's fleet development programme – and for the next phase to be completed. We're sure it will lead to a greater number of the general public trying out the river adventure for themselves - it certainly is a great way of seeing some of the world's most remarkable destinations."

Furthermore, Viking River Cruises have a new microsite http://www.therealrussia.com. The innovative site takes online visitors on a video tour of the country - so they'll experience a real insider's tour of Russia – it's the next best thing to being on a Viking River Cruise itself.

About River Voyages
RiverVoyages.com are the UK's leading specialists in River Cruises, pioneers of the unique, award winning Cruise Concierge system. For more information on river cruises and to see the full Viking River Cruise fleet please visit: http://www.rivervoyages.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm