Viking Introduces New Eastern Europe Itinerary for 2011

In conjunction with the launch of its 2011 River Cruise Atlas, Viking River Cruises, announced a brand-new itinerary along the Danube River in Eastern Europe.

The “Passage to Eastern Europe” trip features an eight-day cruise along the Danube River with stops in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, plus two nights in Budapest and one night in Bucharest.

During the 11-day itinerary, guests will visit three capitals -- Budapest, Hungary; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Bucharest, Romania -- in addition to villages and riverside towns. Highlights are sailing in the Danube River’s Iron Gate region, touring the rocks of Belgradchik, seeing the Roman ruins at Viminacium and viewing a Puszta horsemanship performance.

A variety of lectures, including two on the Balkan conflict from the standpoint of two Serbian and Croatian lecturers, have been added as a part of Viking’s signature Culture Curriculum program.

The “Passage to Eastern Europe” itinerary is available March through November aboard the Viking Primadonna, which has balcony staterooms on the Upper and Middle decks. All-inclusive pricing, starting at $2,156 per person, reflects the 2011 early booking discount of two-for-one cruise and land pricing.

Those who book by May 28 save $1,000 per couple on round-trip international air and transfers and also receive complimentary wine with dinner onboard. The company also offers three-night “Explore More” land extension programs to Transylvania and the Black Sea or Vienna.

Viking River Cruises has a travel agent commission structure and payment policy of 29 days prior to departure. Commissions start at 12 percent on cruise and land, 5 percent on full-price air, 10 percent on the travel protection plan and 12 percent on land extensions.