The River Cruise Market in Europe continues to expand with new builds announced, it seems, every month. Certainly the “Long Ships” of Viking get the most reviews as they continue to multiply. AMA will introduce the new AMA Magma in 2019. Described as the “Widest River Ship in the world”, the ship will boast new stateroom sizes that compare to Ocean Going Ship’s Suites. Award winning AMA continues to innovate with special activities like bicycles on board, wine cruises with on board wine specialists, and innovative active tours for the physically fit clients on board. New itineraries will be the by word in River Cruising in 2019 as Europe’s rivers reach record low levels periodically, and some ports become overloaded with ships tied up at dock. Crystal River Cruises will introduce a new itinerary in 2019 aboard the Crystal Bach. The “Enchanting Moselle” itinerary will concentrate on new ports of call on the Moselle River, visiting excellent vineyards including world class Rieslings. Vietnam and China will see brand new river cruise offerings in 2019 from 5 different River Cruise Companies.

We would be very unkind if we did not mention the newest entry in the Luxury Ocean Cruise category. Seabourn Ovation was brand new in 2018 with her inaugural sailing out of Genoa Italy. Describes as an “Ultra Luxury Resort at Sea” by Regina Baraban, this ship sets a new high for luxury. Catering to mid 60’s and 70’s clients, this new ship is seeing the Mid 50’s join dedicated Seabourn cruisers. World renowned cuisine and spa set Seabourn aside from many other cruise lines. Visits to World Heritage sites rank high on her excursion lists.

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