Great Cruise Journeys.

Group rail operator Great Rail Journeys has launched its new cruise brand, Great Cruise Journeys.

The new venture will offer customers the chance to book a selection of independent cruise holidays that showcase river cruising.

About the cruises

They will offer trips to destinations including Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, The Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia and Switzerland, in partnership with AMA and Travelmarvel.

The featured holidays include premium and luxury cruises exploring some of Europe’s best waterways, such as the Danube, Douro, Main, Rhine and Rhone.

Launching in 2018, the Danube Cruise will take groups from Nuremberg to Budapest, while the Luxury Danube Cruise will go through the cities of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

In addition, the Luxury Douro Cruise 2018 will allow groups to visit northern Spain and Porto and the Luxury Rhone Cruise 2018 will take them through Burgundy and Provence.

The Rhine & Main Cruise 2018 is a journey along Europe’s most important rivers, following Rhine from Amsterdam to Cologne, meandering through Rhine Gorge before joining the Main and passing through the heartland of medieval Germany.

The Rhine, Main & Danube Cruise 2018 takes a similar route, allowing groups to explore the heritage of regal Austria before ending the tour in the imperial city of Budapest.

Also included in the holidays is an exclusive charter of the Spirit of Chartwell on the Douro River, consisting of 15 cabins.

Great Cruise Journeys plan to expand the portfolio for 2018 departures to further explore Europe’s waterways.

Alex Roberts, group marketing and sales director at Great Rail Journeys, said: “Following the success of our escorted group rail and cruise programme, offering independent cruise holidays to our existing customers was a natural extension.Early sales have been extremely positive and we are excited about the prospects and opportunities for the brand.”

What’s included and how to book

Groups booking a cruise with Great Cruise Journeys are offered luxury and premium accommodation, flights to and from the cruise’s start and end destination, with regional options available.

The company is also offering customers flexible options when it comes to excursions throughout the cruise, such as city tours, wine tastings and guided walks.

To book a cruise or find more information, visit www.greatcruisejourneys.com.