By Anne Kalosh.
Canoeing through the romantic canals of Strasbourg, hands-on instruction in Linzer torte baking, Budapest by Trabant (the notorious East German-manufactured car).
These and many more curated experiences are among Crystal River Cruises’ new excursions for voyages along the Danube, Rhine and Main. All focus on authenticity and are tailored to individual interests, featuring smaller group sizes and distinctive touches.
Nearly 200 excursions are included, with additional pursuits available at a cost.
Crystal Bach on the Danube. * Photo : Crystal River Cruises
Many destinations offer more than a dozen choices. Some of the new included adventures are an owner-hosted tasting at Schlagkamp Winery in Cochem, biking to Veitshochheim Castle and its Rococo Garden in Wurzburg, and a behind-the-scenes tour of Amsterdam’s greenhouses, where the famous tulips are cultivated.
Among the other included choices are a culinary experience in the foodie haven of Rotterdam, a string and opera performance in a historic Antwerp cathedral, a full day exploring Salzburg from Linz, and a horse show and carriage ride at Lázár Equestrian Park.
Dozens of optional (extra charge) experiences include a vintage photography adventure in Vukovar, a private home cooking lesson in Kehl, and wine tasting in the renowned cellars of Vienna’s Palais Coburg.
Other optional experiences are hands-on creativity in one of Novi Sad’s last remaining tapestry workshops and horseback riding through the forests of Novi Sad’s Fruška Gora National Park.
The Linzer torte baking, canoeing through Strasbourg and Budapest by Trabant are among the extra-charge offerings.
Crystal’s excursion group sizes are limited to 15 people; for larger groups, guides are available to lead the tours in German, Spanish, Portuguese and other languages, on request.
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