European Waterways launched its 2011 season with a bounty of spring specials that offer savings of up to $5,000 for whole-boat charters, $1,000 off per cabin, and several other values on select barging routes in Europe.
The discounts are valid for certain April and May departures, and booking deadlines vary.
In addition to discounts for many Burgundy cruises, specials include $5,000 off the charter price for the newest member of the fleet, La Bella Vita, which cruises Venice to Mantua. Additional spring specials include cruises on the Canal du Midi, in southern France. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the canal connects the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Ocean. European Waterways also is offering $3,000 off whole boat charter prices for cruises in Scotland and England as well as a Holland Tulip cruise with April departures at 25% off full charter price for 10 to 12 passengers.
Vessels accommodate from eight to 12 passengers, with up to 20 passengers for La Bella Vita. Cabin rates are based on double occupancy.
"The more passengers aboard a charter cruise, the greater the value," said European Waterways President Derek Banks. "Barge cruising is rapidly becoming one of the most popular vacation options in Europe, and with higher demands for this unique vacation experience, travelers are booking early to ensure they get the best departures dates and itineraries."
Pricing information is available at www.gobarging.com.
European Waterways was founded nearly 40 years ago. It designs, builds, owns and operates a private fleet of luxury barges with cruises in France, Italy, Scotland, Ireland, England, Germany, Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg. It is the only cruise company offering barge sailings in Scotland and in the Venetian lagoon.