Avalon Waterways has expanded the choice of its special interest departures for 2015 to meet the increasing demand for themed holidays.  Newly introduced is an Opera Cruise (15 July departure) priced from £2235* per person and an Author's Cruise (9 August departure) priced from £2255* per person.  Both are available on Avalon's popular 13 day 'Blue Danube Discovery' cruise.

Avalon's first opera themed cruise features four emerging stars from Canada's Calgary Opera with nightly entertainment  including opera-themed talks and performances by soprano Natalie Fannan, mezzo soprano Cassandra Warner, tenor Derek Johnson and bass-baritone Tyler Fitzgerald.

The author themed cruise will be accompanied by Patricia Schultz, world-renowned author of the international bestseller '1,000 Places to See Before you Die'. Patricia will be on board to give guests a personal insight into writing and to discuss the most impressive, must-see destinations around the world. 

The 13 day 'Blue Danube Discovery' tour and cruise includes a two night city stay in Budapest, a seven night deluxe cruise onboard one of the newest Suite Ships,Avalon Impression as well as a three night city stay in Prague.  Cruise highlights include Vienna's famous historical sights and the medieval towns of Durnstein, Melk and Regensburg.  Optional day trips are offered to Salzburg and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic.

The new themed cruises are in addition to the existing choice which includes special departures for golf, beer tasting, wellness, jazz and classical music, culinary, wine appreciation, arts and impressionist art, European history, Jewish heritage and Christmas markets.

Ends

*prices quoted include a private home pick up service, return flights, a seven night deluxe cruise with wine and beer served with dinner, five nights bed and breakfast hotel accommodation, guided sightseeing and onboard gratuities.

Avalon ships and launch dates:  Avalon Tapestry II (2015); Avalon Tranquility, Avalon Siem Reap,  Avalon  Myanmar  (2015):  Avalon Impression, Avalon Poetry II and Avalon Illumination (2014); Avalon Artistry II & Avalon Expression (2013); Avalon Vista & Visionary (2012); Avalon Panorama (2011); Avalon Felicity (2010); Avalon Luminary (2010);  Avalon Affinity (2009);  Avalon Creativity (2009);  Avalon Scenery (2008). 

For further press information or images of Avalon cruise ships please contact:

Helen McNaught at the Avalon UK Press Office by emailing hmcnaught@avaloncruises.co.uk