Cruising the Mythically Rich Rivers of Germany -- Increasing numbers of travelers are opting for views of some of the most legendary panoramas in Germany
directly from the deck chairs of yachts and cruise ships. We recommend one for your dollars.
Viking River Cruises, 5700 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91367 (tel. 800/304-9616;
www.vikingrivers.com), is the world's largest river cruise line. It maintains a total of 14 river cruisers,
each designed for between 100 and 230 passengers. Efficient and, in some cases, infused with touches of luxury,
the cruises traverse the muddy waters of the Rhine between Amsterdam and Basel (Switzerland), traveling for
between 8 and 15 nights. For views of Germany's eastern regions, cruises along the Elbe usually begin in
Magdeburg and end in Decin, on the border of the Czech Republic, and focus heavily on day trips through the
majestic core of such revered cities as Dresden.
The per-person rate, depending on the onboard accommodations and the season, ranges from $184 to $457 per
day double occupancy. Onboard attendants deliver commentaries in several languages (including English) of the
sights and monuments en route. Food is served at tables for between four and eight diners, cruise-ship-style.
All meals, onboard lodgings, and shore excursions are included in the price.
