NORWALK, CT (August 2, 2006) Tauck World Discovery has unveiled a new cruise itinerary on the Black Sea for 2007, marking the first Black Sea voyage for the 81-year-old tour, cruise and safari operator. The 12-day “Istanbul & The Black Sea” itinerary (from $5,990 per person) includes a seven-night cruise aboard the luxury small ship Le Levant, plus four nights in Istanbul at the five-star Ceylan InterContinental hotel.

“The Black Sea is a fascinating destination because it’s truly where Asia meets Europe,” said Tauck President/CEO, Robin Tauck. “Our itinerary features an in-depth exploration of Istanbul, plus an incredible array of shore excursions in Eastern European countries to provide a rich and varied portrait of the region.”

Tauck’s itinerary includes a wide range of experiences reflecting the diversity of the countries bordering the Black Sea. Guests will visit 6^th century mosques, the palaces of sultans, and exotic spice bazaars in Istanbul. They’ll also tour a winery founded by Tsar Nicholas II to supply the royal family, visit a once top-secret, Cold War-era Soviet submarine base carved inside the base of a mountain, and venture into a 620-mile tunnel complex beneath Odessa used by revolutionaries, smugglers and WWII partisans. In all, the cruise visits four countries; Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, and Turkey.

LUXURY ABOARD LE LEVANT

After exploring Istanbul for three days, guests will embark on the 330-foot Le Levant. With a capacity of just 90 passengers and a crew of 50, Le Levant offers an intimate, club-like cruising experience. The ship features a 95-seat panoramic restaurant, 95-seat gourmet restaurant, library, two bars, hair salon, sauna, swimming pool, boutique, and more.

Guests will stay in outside staterooms, each with a large picture window, private teak and marble bathroom with shower, and individually controlled air-conditioning. Staterooms also feature satellite television, VCR, mini-bar, personal safe, hi-fi radio, and twin or double beds.

Included in the price are 29 meals (on and off the ship), all shore excursions, wine with dinner aboard Le Levant, port charges, and gratuities to all ship staff, drivers and local guides. Departures are scheduled in July and August, with special reduced singles pricing available on selected sailings.

Those interested in more information can contact their travel professional, call Tauck toll-free at 1 800 214 5158, or visit www.tauck.com.

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