Black Sea Voyage

15-DAYS

Begin your vacation in Vienna, one of the world's most celebrated cities, renowned for its music, architecture and dance. Transfer to Budapest to begin your Danube voyage. You will soon traverse the narrow gorges of the Iron Gates, a stunning passage that divides Europe's Balkan and Carpathian mountains. Later, cruise along the Romanian-Bulgarian border. Visit Vidin, Belogradchik and Bucharest, the capital and largest city in Romania. Disembark and take the optional air transfer to Istanbul or continue over land to Veliko Tarnovo, the ancient capital of Bulgaria, before arriving in Plovdiv. Your sojourn concludes in exotic Istanbul.



ITINERARY

Direction : Vienna to Istanbul
Day 1 : DEPART USA/CANADA
Board your overnight flight to Vienna, Austria.
Day 2 : ARRIVE IN VIENNA
Arrive in Vienna and check-in to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Day 3 : VIENNA
This morning, your city tour takes you around the Burgring, the circular road around Vienna's historic center. You will also take a walking tour through Vienna's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Highlights of your tour will include the Vienna Opera House, the Ringstrasse, and the awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral. The afternoon is free to explore on your own or join an optional tour to the Imperial Schonbrunn Palace. Tonight, explore the vibrant Austrian capital on your own or attend an optional Mozart and Strauss concert. (B)
Day 4 : VIENNA - BUDAPEST - EMBARKATION
Bid farewell to Vienna as you check out of the hotel and transfer to Budapest, where you will have free time for lunch followed by a sightseeing tour of Buda and Pest. From historic Buda Castle, enjoy a splendid view of the twin cities spread over both banks of the River. Your tour also features a visit to the Fisherman's Bastion. Afterwards, board your ship which is docked in the city center. This evening, meet your fellow passengers at the Welcome Dinner. (B,D)
Day 5 : MOHACS - PECS - VILANY
Arrive in Mohacs during breakfast and then depart for your excursion to Pecs, the 2010 European Union Cultural Capital. Founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans, Pecs became an important early Christian diocese and Turkish cultural base during the many centuries of Ottoman rule. Upon arrival, visit the Mosque Church, the largest structure surviving from the Ottoman period, as well as the underground burial chambers that date back to the 4th century. You will also see St. Peter's Basilica, the city's main Catholic cathedral, as well as the restored Synagogue, before returning to the ship in Mohacs. After lunch, enjoy a wine-tasting excursion to sample aromatic, spicy wines from the vineyards of Vilany. As an alternative, take a guided bicycle tour to Mohacs in the afternoon (capacity controlled). (B,L,D)
Day 6 : VUKOVAR, CROATIA - NOVI SAD, SERBIA
This morning, choose either a "Yugoslav Civil War" tour of Vukovar or wine tasting in the town of Ilok. Your city tour of Vukovar includes the Ovcara Memorial, the monumental cross that is a memorial to those who lost their lives during Croatia's struggle for independence. As an alternative, travel to the town of Ilok, which is famous for its wines. Here, you will visit a local winery and sample their vintages before your walking tour of the town. Enjoy lunch on board as you cruise to Novi Sad, Serbia. Enjoy a walking tour of Novi Sad in the afternoon, beginning at Danube Park, then stroll through the Old Town district. (B,L,D)
Day 7 : BELGRADE
Wake up in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, and enjoy a panoramic tour of some of the city's 5,500 streets, 16 plazas and 32 squares. You will also see the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava as part of your tour. As an alternative, take the "Tito's Memorial" tour, which includes a visit to the House of Flowers, where the tomb of Josip Tito is located. You will also see some of the many gifts Tito received during his presidency. You will have free time in the city center after your tour to stroll along Prince Michael Street, the city's main pedestrian and shopping area. A guided bicycle tour is available in the afternoon (capacity controlled). (B,L,D)
Day 8 : CRUISING THROUGH THE IRON GATES - VIDIN, BULGARIA
Today, enjoy a full day of cruising through one of Europe's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Iron Gates. Here the Danube narrows as it winds through a range of magnificent gorges between the southern Carpathian Mountains and the northwestern Balkan Mountains. This natural border between Serbia and Romania will be an unforgettable highlight of your Black Sea adventure. Late this evening, the ship cruises to Vidin. (B,L,D)
Day 9 : VIDIN
The Baba Vida Fortress, the only entirely preserved medieval castle in the country, stands guard over the Danube at the Bulgarian frontier town of Vidin. The 14th- century castle has massive walls and four imposing towers, a stark contrast to the bucolic park that surrounds the castle. From here, take an excursion to Belogradchik, a beautifully restored 6th- century castle, located in a stunning landscape of unusual rock formations. (B,L,D)
Day 10 : GIURGIU - BUCHAREST, ROMANIA - ROUSSE, BULGARIA
Enjoy a full day excursion to Bucharest, the "Paris of the East." Visit the Open Air Museum, which was dedicated to the traditional architecture of rural Romania. After lunch you will have two options: a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, second only to the Pentagon as the largest building in the world; OR a tour of the newly renovated Lipscani district, the historical city center of Bucharest. (B,L,D)
Day 11 : ROUSSE - DISEMBARKATION - VELIKO TARNOVO - PLOVDIV, BULGARIA
Disembark the ship in Rousse and continue your tour by motor coach. Your first stop is the ancient capital of Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo, where you will visit Samovodska Charshia, a traditional market. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a hotel in Veliko Tarnovo, where you will sample a traditional Bulgarian lunch before continuing on to Plovdiv. This evening, see the main highlights of Plovdiv Old Town on a walking tour before dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L,D)
Day 12 : PLOVDIV - ISTANBUL, TURKEY
After breakfast, continue on to exotic Istanbul for the grand three-night conclusion of your Black Sea Voyage. You will stop for lunch in Erdine, and then continue on to Istanbul where you will check into your hotel. The rest of the evening is free to explore on your own. (B,L)
Day 13 : ISTANBUL
A comprehensive city tour will take you through its Old City, with its numerous Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman monuments. Admire the mighty defensive walls, the Roman aqueduct and the hippodrome. See the Galata Tower and visit the beautiful and historic Blue Mosque, so named for the blue tiles adorning its interior. This afternoon is free to explore the town on your own or join the optional "Turkish Delight" tour, an in-depth look at some of Istanbul's most unique sights. (B)
Day 14 : ISTANBUL
Today, your guided sightseeing tour will take you to the spectacular Ottoman Sultans' Grand Palace of Topkapi, home to every Sultan from the 15th-19th century. During your tour, admire the private chambers of the Sultans, the Harem (women's quarters) and the Imperial Treasury's vast collection, including the jewel-encrusted Topkapi Dagger and the stunning 86 carat Spoonmaker's Diamond. This afternoon, enjoy an optional Bosporus cruise to Istanbul's chic, trendy neighborhood of Ortaköy, or use the remainder of the day to shop for souvenirs or relax at a tea house or caf? (B)
Day 15 : DEPART ISTANBUL
Prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
(B - breakfast, L - lunch, D - dinner)

INCLUDED IN THE TOUR

  • 2 Nights Hotel in Vienna at the InterContinental (or similar), including daily buffet breakfast
  • Budapest is also available; ask for details
  • Transfer from Vienna to the ship in Budapest
  • 7 nights deluxe cruise accommodation in an outside stateroom
  • Most staterooms offer French balconies or revolutionary Twin Balconies
  • Life enriching tours and excursions daily
  • "Culinary Delights - Bites & Sights" excursions
  • State-of-the-art Infotainment System in all staterooms featuring free high-speed Internet access, hit Hollywood movies, extensive music library & English language TV stations
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
  • Terry bathrobes and white-on-white plush bedding
  • Gourmet dining with all meals included during your cruise
  • Multiple dining venues on select vessels
  • Free-flowing red & white wines from Europe's great wine regions, beer & soft drinks with every dinner on board
  • Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
  • Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain's Gala Dinner
  • Fully escorted motor coach tour from the ship in Rousse, Bulgaria to Istanbul
  • 1-night hotel in Plovdiv at the Dedeman (or similar), including Buffet Breakfast
  • 3 nights hotel in Istanbul at The Ritz-Carlton (or similar), including daily buffet breakfast
  • Special highlights including lectures, cooking demonstration, onboard music performances and piano music
  • Bicycles to explore on your own & guided bicycle tours
  • Services of professional Cruise Manager
  • All English language on board in a non-smoking environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
  • All transfers with the purchase of cruise, land & air package
  • All local taxes

NOT INCLUDED

  • Gratuities for guides & cruise personnel
  • Transatlantic air-fare (can be arranged by UET from any US city)
  • Items of personal nature & items not listed in the itinerary
  • Optional travel insurance
  • Port charges

TOUR PRICES & DEPARTURE DATES:

2013 SAILINGS
DEP USA CANADA START CITY ITIN. STARTS SHIP NAME EMBARK CITY EMBARK DATE CRUISE ONLY CRUISE & LAND
May 24ViennaMay 25AmaCertoBudapestMay 27$2,899$4,279
May 29IstanbulMay 30AmaCertoRousseJun 3$2,899$4,279
Jul 5ViennaJul 6AmaCertoBudapestJul 8$2,799$4,179
Jul 10IstanbulJul 11AmaCertoRousseJul 15$2,799$4,179
Aug 11ViennaAug 12AmaPrimaBudapestAug 14$2,799$4,179
Aug 16IstanbulAug 17AmaPrimaRousseAug 21$2,799$4,179
Sep 22ViennaSep 23AmaPrimaBudapestSep 25$2,999$4,379
Sep 27IstanbulSep 28AmaPrimaRousseOct 2$2,999$4,379
CABIN UPGRADES PER PERSON
CATEGORY DECK STATEROOM CRUISE ONLY CRUISE & LAND
EPianoFixed WindowsBase PriceBase Price
DPianoFixed Windows+ $199+ $199
CViolin & CelloFrench Balcony+ $579+ $579
BBCelloFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $999+ $999
BAViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,099+ $1,099
ABCelloFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,299+ $1,299
AAViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,499+ $1,499
AA+ViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,499+ $1,499
SuiteViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $2,199+ $2,199

Note:

  • Port Charges: $147 per person.
  • Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of twin price; Jr. Suites & Suites 100% of twin price.
  • Single Supplement for Land: $780 per person.
  • Bedding: Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

2014 SAILINGS
DEP USA CANADA START CITY ITIN. STARTS SHIP NAME EMBARK CITY EMBARK DATE CRUISE ONLY CRUISE & LAND
May 2ViennaMay 3AmaCertoBudapestMay 5$3,199$4,699
May 7IstanbulMay 8AmaCertoRousseMay 12$3,299$4,799
May 31ViennaJun 1AmaPrimaBudapestJun 3$3,299$4,799
Jun 5IstanbulJun 6AmaPrimaRousseJun 10$3,299$4,799
Jun 27ViennaJun 28AmaCertoBudapestJun 30$3,099$4,599
Jul 2IstanbulJul 3AmaCertoRousseJul 7$3,099$4,599
Jul 26ViennaJul 27AmaPrimaBudapestJul 29$3,099$4,599
Jul 31IstanbulAug 1AmaPrimaRousseAug 5$3,099$4,599
Aug 22ViennaAug 23AmaCertoBudapestAug 25$3,299$4,799
Aug 27IstanbulAug 28AmaCertoRousseSep 1$3,499$4,999
Sep 20ViennaSep 21AmaPrimaBudapestSep 23$3,499$4,999
Sep 25IstanbulSep 26AmaPrimaRousseSep 30$3,499$4,999
Oct 17ViennaOct 18AmaCertoBudapestOct 20$3,099$4,599
Oct 22IstanbulOct 23AmaCertoRousseOct 27$2,999$4,499
CABIN UPGRADES PER PERSON
CATEGORY DECK STATEROOM CRUISE ONLY CRUISE & LAND
EPianoFixed WindowsBase PriceBase Price
DPianoFixed Windows+ $249+ $249
CViolin & CelloFrench Balcony+ $649+ $649
BBCelloFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,149+ $1,149
BAViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,249+ $1,249
ABCelloFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,449+ $1,449
AAViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,649+ $1,649
AA+ViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $1,999+ $1,999
SuiteViolinFrench Balcony & Outside Balcony+ $2,649+ $2,649

Note:

  • Prices are per person in a Cat. E.
  • Port Charges: $161 per person.
  • Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of twin price; Jr. Suites & Suites 100% of twin price.
  • Single Supplement for Land: $840 per person.
  • Bedding: Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

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The  brand new fleet of AMA-WATERWAYS  ships are setting new standards in European river cruising and offer a number of features not found on other European river cruise ships. Clients will enjoy the luxury of more space, 2 panorama lounges, Fitness Center, Massage  and Beauty Salon. There are 25 bicycles on board for you to explore the small towns and to ride on the many bicycle paths along the various rivers. The ships operate  for the English speaking market only.