Fresh from the success of their return to European river cruising, Swan Hellenic is extending their river programme in 2010 with the Rhine as a new destination. Swan Hellenic’s River cruises in 2009 featured the Rhone and the Danube – destinations that also feature in the 2010 programme.

The Rhine has a host of surprises in store – passengers on A-ROSA Aqua enjoy a rich array of scenery as they sail a round trip from Cologne past Moselle vines to half-timbered towns and turreted historic castles. A vast array of inclusive excursions are offered, such as a visit to the magnificent Schwetzingen Palace Gardens and a walking tour of Basle that includes of a visit to the Pflaz royal residence.

As with their ocean cruises, Swan’s distinctive approach to discovery cruising allows passengers to gain greater insights and a further appreciation of each destinations history. Through knowledgeable on board guest speakers passengers hear about Roman campaigns to the South of France on the Rhone, whilst along the Danube, an exploration of the origins of Baroque art and architecture and stories behind the Cold War will be on agenda. Whilst on the Rhine hear about finds dating back to Neolithic man, military campaigns fought over the Alsace region or the story behind Martin Luther and the Diet of Worms – all promise to fascinate!

With A-ROSA’s modern vessels matching the style and luxury of ocean-going vessels, passengers will travel in comfort aboard A-ROSA’s sophisticated fleet of river vessels that have been designed with Europe’s great rivers in mind. With less that 200 passengers on each cruise every one will benefit from an outside cabin, which with all the spacious public rooms and decks, allow travellers to soak up the cultural feasts of these three great rivers.

Swan’s River cruising is going from strength to strength as Colin Stone, Swan Hellenic’s Managing Director comments, “We’ve expanded the 2010 programme to include the Rhine due to the success of the 2009 programme. Swan River cruising is popular with passengers as they experience the same ocean-going standard, whilst seeing some of the most spectacular sights that Europe has to offer. A Swan Hellenic River cruise allows passengers to discover the heart of Europe in comfort and style.”

An 8 day river cruise starts from just £1325 per person – fares are inclusive of flights and transfers. What’s more, Swan’s price promise means that once a cruise is booked, if prices go down in future brochures, they will refund the difference – plus they guarantee no fuel or currency surcharges.