Uniworld River Cruises, River Countess

Living up to her moniker, the River Countess rules the great waterways of both Western and Eastern Europe. Part of the magnificent Uniworld River Cruises fleet, which specializes in intimate and luxurious river cruising, the recently refurbished River Countess ferries a privileged 134 guests throughout Europe in style. The three-deck vessel features airy staterooms with river views, ample-sized baths and flat-panel televisions - plus inviting public rooms for mingling, onboard lectures for enrichment, and panoramic restaurants with open seating for convenience. The ship also houses a 24-hour coffee shop, bicycles for land exploration and a fitness room. All onboard meals, wine with dinner, bottled water, shore excursions and specialty coffees are included as well.

As the River Countess makes her way down the winding rivers of Europe, her exceptional itineraries begin to take shape as she anchors near the wondrous towns and villages of Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest, Amsterdam, Cologne and Belgrade - just to name a few. Itineraries are varied, always with an abundance of highlights, including wine tastings at medieval castles, visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, walking tours along cobblestone streets, and classical musical performances featuring the works of Mozart and Bach. The Grand Christmas and New Year's Cruise features visits to holiday markets and a New Year's Eve celebration dinner and private concert. What a spectacular way to both end and begin the year.