Hi, everyone
This is the first time I'm posting a message so I hope I get some responses. My husband and I are thinking about a Danube river boat cruise in September/05. Does anyone have any info or experience with the many tour companies that run these cruises? Specifically Tauck? Thanks in advance.

We did a cruise from Amsterdam to Vienna with Grand Circle (at the recommendation of friends). It was very enjoyable. I think most of the boats visit the same sights. I'm certain that anything run by Tauck would be an excellent experience.

Grandma,
Thanks for the input. I'll check out Grand Circle.

Last June we took a Grand Circle cruise from Vilshofen, Germany to Budapaest, with an extension by bus to Prague. All of the boats seem to be similar accross the various operators. Grand Circle caters to the over 50 crowd, although not everyone is over 50. Their pace may be a little more relaxed than some others. They also try very hard to get you to understand the local culture, religion, politics etc. We have travelled with them four times in various parts of the world, three of those being river cruises. We also have two more trips scheduled. If you have any specific questions, we'd be glad to answer them.

IF you know the name of the partcular vessel and operator being used by the tour company then you can go to www.cruisecritic.com and read reviews of the particular vessel there. Amenities vary by ship so this is one aspect you may want to consider.

Face it, none of these tour operators are going to tell you that the vessel they are using is "small"..that becomes "intimate"; "old" sometimes becomes "charming" or "traditional";
"slow" becomes "leisurely"; "ordinary" can suddenly become "breathtaking" and so forth.

Have a great trip as some of the river cruises are truly wonderful.

We cruised with Viking (www.vikingrivercruises.com) from Budapest to Nuremberg two years ago. The ships that Viking uses for the Danube cruises are fairly new, with nicely appointed cabins. Three meals a day are included with the fare, as well as all sightseeing. They do a first rate job. We've cruised with them three times; in Russia, on the Danube, and in Holland. We will definitely cruise with Viking again, and have no hesitations about recommending them to others.

Much thanks to everyone. I definitely have my work cut out for me. Should I book now for September '05 or can I wait a little?

We did the MV MOZART ship on a cruise from Passau to Budapest in 1999. Good service, nice rooms. Cannot remember the company, but the ship and trip was good.

Just compare the cost of a tour with Tauk and Grand Circle and you will think there is no comparison. Grand Circle is a real value. We have done many trips with them and have been more than satisfied