Sherman's Travel

We’ve just dug up a tempting cruise deal for select European river sailings in 2012 aboard luxe Avalon Waterways. Book via Premier River Cruises by November 25, and nab comped rates on second passenger fares when paying full fare for the first passenger. This limited-time offer is valid on select 7- to 14-night cruises, like the 7-night Paris & Normandy sailing, with rates starting as low as $2,098 for two people – working out to just $1,049 per person. Other available sale fares include $2,490 for two ($1,249 per person) for the 7-night Burgundy & Provence sailing, or $2,598 for two ($1,299 per person) for the 7-night Danube River cruise. (Note that taxes and fees are additional, and are applicable for the promotional fare, as well.) What’s more, guests participating in this promotion will also receive up to $250  inshipboard credit, valid for redemption for onboard purchases at the spa, gift shop, and more. Read more

Leading river cruise line Viking River Cruises – known for its riverboat itineraries in Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia, and Egypt – has announced two more new-builds for 2012, adding to the four newbies already scheduled to debut in its fast-expanding fleet. The six new vessels total – part of the line’s Viking Longship class – illustrate an ambitious response to overwhelming customer demand, marking an unprecedented number of ships launched in a single season for the company (last time they came close was in 2001 when they brought four new additions into the fleet). The two new ships – the Viking Embla and Viking Aegir – will roll out in July and August 2012, respectively, and join their sister ships (Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord, and Viking Odin), slated for debut in March 2012 (the funny-sounding ship names are borrowed from individuals in Norse mythology). Read more