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Delights along the Danube

Join General Tours World Traveler’s exclusive charter of the luxurious, former State Ship of Austria, the MV Mozart, for all the wonderful special events of our all-inclusive, luxury cruise… A value you may never see again!

>Exclusive Shipboard & Shoreside Events

Our all-inclusive private sailing aboard the luxury MV Mozart features exclusive shipboard and shoreside events you won't find anywhere else

• Private tour through the elegant 18^th century palace grounds of the Spanish Riding School in the heart of Vienna

• Exclusive invitation to a rehearsal to see up-close the masterful riders and powerful stallions of the Spanish Riding School

• Journey into the Hungarian countryside to an elegant Baroque summer palace for a private champagne reception and a concert of operetta selections, performed in period finery

• Wine-tasting in Dürnstein on the castle terrace of Schloss Dürnstein overlooking the vineyard-laced hills of the picturesque Wachau Valley

• Dessert and coffee at the Augartenpalais, one of Vienna’s finest palaces and now home to the Vienna Boys Choir

• A private concert by the Vienna Boys Choir, singing Austrian folk songs and works by favorite sons, Mozart and Strauss.

• A fittingly-royal brass orchestra welcome in Bratislava, the City of Kings

• A welcome cocktail reception with Passau’s Gothic spires as our backdrop

• On-deck Oktoberfest Party with traditional Bavarian food, beer and musical entertainment

• Sail-away cocktail party as we depart Budapest

• Fine cuisine and unlimited wine every evening in a charming Continental atmosphere

• Deluxe escorted roundtrip transfers from Munich Airport

• Marvelous escorted sightseeing and special events every day

• Extend your vacation in Munich during Oktoberfest! Our Cruise to Remember arrives back to Bavaria in time for the exciting Oktoberfest Costume and Riflemen’s Parade and just as the celebrations get underway

• Begin your vacation with our perfectly-planned pre-cruise tour to Prague and Bohemia

Our exclusive features and itinerary aboard the MV Mozart

The elegance and all-inclusive luxury of the former State Ship of Austria…

• Smoke free cruising with a totally English-speaking staff – nearly twice the staff of all other cruise lines for impeccable service

• Spacious cabins with plush Euro-style bedding, complimentary bottled water, and fluffy cotton robes

• Fine dining with six meals daily and complimentary wine every evening with dinner

• An MD onboard for our entire cruise

Sep 14 – Munich / Passau Embarkation

A deluxe motorcoach from Munich brings us to Passau where the MV Mozart awaits. Settle-in to your stateroom and then join us on-deck for our Welcome Reception and pre-dinner cocktails as we set sail past the spires of Passau.

Sep 15 – Dürnstein / Vienna

A guided stroll through the picturesque lanes of Dürnstein reveals finely-preserved Burgher homes of the 16th to 18th centuries. High on a hill, towering 500 feet above us, we see the ruins of the imposing Kuenringer Castle, where King Richard the Lion Heart of England was held captive in 1193 until the payment of a rather hefty ransom. Upon arrival at the elegant Hotel Schloss, we’ll be greeted by knights in shining armor and led – not to the dungeons as was King Richard – but to the castle terrace. Overlooking the scenic, vineyard-laced Wachau Valley, we’ll enjoy a tasting of several regional wines.

We’ll return to the ship for lunch and sail on to Vienna. This evening, the Captain hosts a cocktail party, followed by dinner. Then, we’ll travel into Vienna for decadent Austrian pastries at the Augartenpalais, a splendid Baroque palace and former Imperial hunting lodge and now the official school of the Vienna Boys Choir. After dessert and coffee, we’ll thrill to a private Vienna Boys Choir performance of folk songs and best loved works by Mozart and Strauss.

Sep 16 – Vienna

For more than 4 centuries, the Spanische Hofreitschule Vienna – the Spanish Riding School – has guarded the classic Renaissance traditions of dressage, where the natural movements of horses are cultivated into elegant choreography, including amazing leaps and bounds.

Our exclusive tour begins on the 18th century palace grounds of this legendary Riding School, where these 400-year-old traditions guide the training of stallions and riders. We are guests of this hallowed institution for a rehearsal to see up-close as these masterful riders put their horses through their complicated paces.

After lunch, we’ll discover the architectural wealth and splendor of the ruling Habsburgs as we tour along the Ringstrasse. The resplendent buildings and royal palaces showcase the many architectural styles that spanned the Empire’s history, from medieval and High Gothic to Baroque and Art Nouveau. Nearby, the Vienna State Opera House is one of the most significant music venues in the world. We’ll continue on an escorted walking tour through the heart of Vienna to see St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the finest Gothic churches in all of Europe. Enjoy a gala dinner tonight as we cruise toward Hungary.

Sep 17 – Esztergom / Budapest, Hungary

We alight this morning in historic Esztergom, at the western edge of the lovely Danube Bend. The first Christian king of Hungary, St. Stephen, was crowned here in the year 1000, establishing the town as his country’s first capital, which it remained for more than 200 years. The town is dominated by the grand Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary. We’ll tour this imposing monument, crowned by am imposing 325 foot tall central cupola with a portico supported by 22 beautiful Corinthian columns.

After lunch, we journey into the Hungarian countryside to Gödollo Palace, recently restored to its Baroque splendor. Built in the 18th century by a wealthy private family, this is one of Hungary’s largest and most resplendent palaces. It was presented as a gift to the Habsburg Family and was the favored summertime residence of Franz Josef, the last Emperor of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and his much beloved wife, the Empress Sisi. They loved their summers here, and you’ll have a delightful time as well, beginning with a champagne reception upon arrival. Our tour of this grand palace concludes with a private concert of operetta selections performed by the renowned Hungarian ensemble Marquise, dressed in Baroque period finery. Tonight, our ship is berthed in the heart of illuminated Budapest.

Sep 18 – Budapest

Following breakfast onboard, we set out to discover Budapest on a privately-escorted tour. Set along both banks of the Danube River, the capital of Hungary brings together the scenic hills of Buda with the cosmopolitan boulevards of Pest. The city’s colorful history stretches back 2,000 years when it was a northern outpost of the Roman Empire. In the centuries since, waves of foreign influence have impacted the city, giving Budapest its unique character and culture. Today, Budapest is one of the most dynamic and fascinating cities in all of Europe.

From Matthias Church, Fishermen’s Bastion and Gellert Hill on the Buda side, we’ll have impressive views of the Danube and the twin-cities, including the enormous neo-Gothic Parliament building. Crossing to the Pest side, we drive along the Danube embankment, visit Heroes’ Square and tour the interior of the magnificent Budapest Opera House, built by Franz Josef – testament to the Habsburg’s generous patronage of the arts and music.

Following lunch onboard, you’ll enjoy free time to discover for yourself the magic of Budapest. Stop at Café Gerbaud, the city’s oldest, or visit the popular Central Market Hall – a mecca for gourmands and “foodies”. As the MV Mozart bids farewell to the Queen of the Danube, we invite you on-deck for our Sail Away Cocktail Party as we continue our voyage.

Sep 19 – Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava – The City of Kings – is enclosed by the Little Carpathian Mountains on one side and the Danube on the other. When Budapest fell to Ottoman forces in the 16th century, Emperor Ferdinand proclaimed Bratislava the capital of Hungary, ushering in a Golden Age that would endure for generations. From this date forth until 1835, the city witnessed the coronation of 19 Austro-Hungarian rulers, including the Empress Maria Theresia. She, in particular, heavily influenced the character of the city – endowing Bratislava with impressive Baroque architecture. The charming Old Town, dominated by the imposing hilltop silhouette of Bratislava Castle, features lovingly restored town homes from the city’s golden Imperial era and the stunning neo-classical residence of the Archbishops of Esztergom

Our arrival here in the City of Kings is greeted with fittingly royal fanfare from the Brass Orchestra of Bratislava. Our sightseeing begins with panoramic views from the hilltop castle and continues with an escorted walking tour through the magnificently restored Old Town. We return to ship for lunch and sail through the Danube Locks before this evening’s Farewell Cocktail Reception and Dinner, hosted by our Captain.

Sep 20 – Melk, Austria

Austria’s Wachau Valley is certainly one of the most scenic regions of Europe. Along with its incredible natural beauty, it is home to some of the Continent’s greatest cultural treasures and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. At the western end of this valley, set atop a 180-foot promontory is the spectacular Melk Abbey – one of the finest Baroque buildings in the world. The history of the region stretches back to ancient times when the Romans built a fortress on this high ridge. Later, it was the seat of the powerful Babenberg Dukes who ruled Austria starting in the 10th century until the Habsburg Dynasty rose to power. Melk is still a working Benedictine Abbey and on our escorted tour, it would not be unusual to see black-robed monks or students walking through the grounds.

As we chart our return to Germany through the lovely Danube landscapes, join us on-deck for our specially-planned Oktoberfest Party, with all the food, drink, and musical entertainment of this Bavarian tradition.

Sep 21 – Passau Disembarkation

After breakfast onboard, travelers returning to the USA will be transferred to the Munich airport. Or extend your vacation with a perfectly-timed stay in Munich – as the city celebrates Oktoberfest!

Our specially-arranged private events will be unforgettable!

At the Augartenpalais with the Vienna Boys Choir…

The musical traditions of the Vienna Boys Choir date back more than 500 years to 1498 when the Habsburg Emperor Maximilian I moved his court musicians from Innsbruck to Vienna, with specific instruction that there be six boys among his musicians. Today, there are about 100 choir members between the ages of ten and fourteen, selected from the 250 students enrolled at the Choir’s private school.

This elite academy is housed in the splendid Augartenpalais, built in the 17^th century in glorious Baroque style for Habsburg royalty. As a former Imperial hunting lodge, the expansive grounds of the Palace are truly inspiring.

After a fine dinner onboard the MV Mozart, we’ll travel 30 minutes to the Augartenpalais where dessert, coffee and tea will be served in the Palace gardens. It’s a rare opportunity to be invited for a private reception here at this historic institution, and our magical evening is highlighted by a private concert with the Vienna Boys Choir performing folk songs and renowned works by Mozart and Strauss.

At the Gödollo Palace… Splendid summer residence of an Emperor and his wife…

In the mid 1700’s, in the picturesque town of Gödollo, just outside of Budapest, the wealthy Grassalkovich family built a splendid Baroque palace surrounded by landscaped, tree-shaded park-like grounds. Just over 100 years later, this imposing Palace was presented as a coronation gift to Emperor Franz Josef and Queen Elizabeth, fondly known as the Empress Sisi.

The stories surrounding Josef’s beloved wife, Sisi, would be perfect fare for today’s celebrity-driven media. Her arrival into Viennese society was not easy, punctuated in fact by ridicule from the aristocracy, and many speculate that she was anorexic. But she was adored by the Austrian public and when she was assassinated in Geneva by a young Italian anarchist, it seemed that nearly all of Europe wept.

Many of the joys in her life centered on the times when she and the Emperor could escape the capital and retreat to their summer palace in Gödollo. Although this is the largest Baroque palace in Hungary, its warmth and elegant intimacy offer a glimpse into the refuge which Sisi seemed so desperately to seek. Our private champagne reception here is followed by an exclusive guided tour of the Palace’s stunning Baroque interiors. Then we’ll enjoy a specially-arranged concert of operetta selections performed by the renowned ensemble, Marquise, dressed in Baroque period finery.

On a castle terrace overlooking the Danube…

Situated in one of the very loveliest spots on the Danube River, in the gorgeous Wachau Valley, the Castle Dürnstein was built in 1603, its river-view terrace the envy of the region. After touring Dürnstein, one of the most charming medieval towns along the river, we’ll retreat to the Castle terrace, where we will be greeted by knights in medieval armor. Overlooking this most picturesque stretch of river, valley, and mountain, we’ll enjoy a private tasting of fine wines from the renowned vineyards of the Wachau Valley.

>Fine Dining

Fine dining aboard the 5-star MV Mozart

Note: To ensure a leisurely journey, all meal times are subject to adjustment based upon our cruising and sightseeing schedule. You’ll never feel rushed through a meal nor lack the time to refresh and prepare for dinner!

>Our Prague and Bohemia Pre-Cruise Tour

Explore Prague and Bohemia… Just before our cruise

Goethe once declared Prague to be “the jewel in the crown of the world”. This lovely city is, indeed, the perfect place to begin your cruise vacation on the fabled Danube River – which has its source in the scenic Bohemian highlands not far from Prague. Our 4-day pre-cruise package includes 3 nights at the deluxe Intercontinental Hotel in the very heart of the city with daily breakfast, transfers and sightseeing with our very own resident staff.

Sep 11 – Arrive Prague

Upon arrival, we’ll be met by General Tours Prague-based staff and escorted to our deluxe hotel, perfectly situated just a short stroll from the statue-lined Charles Bridge. We’ll have time to refresh and relax before we gather together for a delightful dinner in the hotel’s roof-top restaurant, with spectacular views over rooftops and spires to the majestic Prague Castle.

Sep 12 - Prague

We explore the city in-depth today by deluxe motorcoach and on foot. Our enlightening walking tour includes the grand Old Town Square, the famous Astronomical Clock and the ancient Jewish Quarter. Crossing the Vltava River, we’ll ascend by motorcoach to Prague Castle where we’ll see St. Vitus Cathedral before visiting the medieval Strahov Library, one of Europe’s oldest. Outside the library with sweeping views of the city, we’ll enjoy a lovely lunch on the terrace. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to enjoy at your own pace..

Sep 13 – Prague

Today you have Prague at your leisure. Our staff is available to assist with sightseeing, shopping and dining recommendations. Tonight, we’ll gather at the newly-restored Municipal House, a stunning Art Nouveau gem, to sample Prague’s famous Pilsner beer and to enjoy a fine buffet dinner with music.

Sep 14 – Prague / Cesky Krumlov / Passau, Germany

Following breakfast, we’ll travel by deluxe motorcoach through the village-dotted, rolling countryside of Bohemia. Our destination is Cesky Krumlov, one of Europe’s most picturesque towns, filled with fine Baroque and Renaissance architecture, a medieval old town square and the imposing Cesky Krumlov Castle. We’ll dine in a charming restaurant before our guided exploration of this enchanting town set on scenic banks of the Vltava River. We’ll continue through the Bavarian Forest of southern Germany to board our luxury river ship in the city of Passau.

Join us for Oktoberfest in Munich… Right after the cruise!

Stay on in Munich after your Danube River cruise – the timing couldn’t be more perfect as we arrive in Bavaria just as Oktoberfest revelry gets underway! Our 4-day post-cruise holiday includes 3 nights at the excellent Le Meridien Hotel along with daily buffet breakfast, a privately-arranged dinner at the magnificent Nymphenburg Palace and all transfers. To show you the very best of Munich, we’ve arranged for our favorite host team, including Peter Neissendorfer, whose many VIP clients include several American presidents.

Sep 21 – Arrive Munich

What a welcome to Bavaria’s most exciting city! The second day of Oktoberfest – and a major highlight of the entire festival – happens today! Following breakfast onboard in Passau, we’ll transfer by deluxe motorcoach to Bavaria’s fun loving capital where we’ll enjoy the exciting Oktoberfest Costume and Riflemen’s Parade! Afterwards, we’ll have time to join the Oktoberfest festivities before we have dinner at our deluxe hotel marvelously located in the heart of the city.

Sep 22 – Munich

This lovely Bavarian city is graced with splendid architecture, expansive parks and world-class museums. Our superbly-orchestrated day opens with a walking tour to embrace the beauty and rhythms of the city. Then we travel to the elegant 17^th century Nymphenburg Palace and Carriages Museum for an enthralling visit. After touring the Palace and gardens, we’ll delight in a specially-arranged dinner here on the Palace grounds.

Sep 23 – Munich

A full day at leisure so you can enjoy at your own pace all the lively and colorful festivities of Oktoberfest. Join residents and visitors alike at the Wiesn – or Oktoberfest grounds. Although famed for its beer, the festival offers more than 200 sideshows, carnival rides and plenty of other attractions. The hallmark of this historic festival, which traces its origins to the wedding celebrations of Ludwig I in 1810, is the beer, which is mainly served in 14 tents on the Wiesn grounds. Each tent, or festival hall, has its own unique character, with plenty of bands, folk groups, dancing and day-long revelry. An escorted full-day excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle is also available.

Sep 24, 2008 – Munich Departure

Our tour services end today after breakfast.

Our luxury ‘home’ for the week… the elegant MV Mozart

Built as the State Ship of Austria (think Air Force One!) in 1987 and recently refurbished, the stunning MV Mozart is truly the most luxurious river vessel in the world, the perfect way to experience the splendor and majesty of the mighty Habsburg Dynasty that ruled across Europe for seven centuries. Our intimate ship features just 100 staterooms and at 203 square feet, they’re the largest cabins of any river ship on the Continent. Each graciously-appointed cabin features a built-in wardrobe, color TV, sofa and coffee table, mini-bar, audio entertainment center – and a spacious bathroom equipped with hair dryer and plush terry robes. We’ll slumber peacefully every night with luxurious European-style bedding, with complimentary bottled water provided en suite.

The ship is resplendent with gleaming rosewood, and original works of art grace the walls. We’ll gather with our fellow travelers in elegant public spaces, including an expansive lounge, two bars, a café, and a library. When we’re not on-tour or exploring the sites along the Danube, we can rejuvenate in the Wellness Spa, invigorate in the complete fitness center, unwind in the indoor heated pool, or relax in the sauna.

With the best staff-to-guest ratio in Europe, we’ll enjoy impeccable dining room and shipboard services that are personal, attentive, and efficient. The staff is English-speaking and there will be a Medical doctor onboard with us. Six gourmet meals a day with 9-course dinners on select evenings, plus nightly entertainment and dancing, will be enhanced with our shipboard parties and themed events, superbly planned to complement our voyage.

Deposit
A deposit of $450 per person is due within 7 calendar days of booking in order to secure your reservation.

Full Payment
Full payment is due on May 13, 2008. After May 13, full payment must be guaranteed at the time of booking with a credit card. After any payment has been made, a minimum $30 fee will be charged per transaction for any changes made to dates, hotels, or to ground or air transportation. When dates are changed, it is considered a cancelled trip and cancellation penalties will apply. Revisions to air tickets are subject to the rules and regulations of the fare type purchased. Prices may vary depending on the day of travel and airline class of service booked, which is determined by seat availability. All prices are subject to change without notice.

If The Traveler Cancels
Cancellations must be received in writing and are subject to the following per person fees:

• Between March 18 - May 13, $450 per person

• Between May 14 – June 13, 50% of price plus airline cancellation penalties

• Between June 14 and day of departure, 100% of price

• Hotel bookings cancelled after departure from the USA are subject to 100% cancellation penalties.

Transfers
Group transfers are included as indicated and are scheduled to meet air-inclusive arrangements purchased through General Tours. Transfers at other times may require an additional charge.

Travelers Requiring Special Assistance
Any disability requiring special attention should be reported to General Tours at the time the reservation is made. General Tours will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of such travelers, but it is not responsible for any denial of services by carriers, hotels, and other independent suppliers. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a tour member for walking, dining, getting on and off motor coaches, ships and other transportation vehicle, or other personal needs. Travelers who need such assistance must be accompanied by a qualified companion. Cruise ships have very limited handicapped facilities; almost all have stairs rather than elevators, including the two-deck MV Mozart.

Passport
A passport valid for six months upon return to the U.S. is required of all tour participants.

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