NORWALK, CT (April 10, 2007) Tauck World Discovery has announced the construction of an all-new luxury riverboat to be featured on its European river cruise itineraries beginning in early 2008. The ship’s debut next spring will mark the second new Tauck-branded river vessel launched in the last two years, following the introduction of the MS Swiss Emerald in 2006.

Tauck President/CEO Robin Tauck said construction is well under way. “The new ship is currently being crafted to our precise specifications in the Netherlands, and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Tauck. “Last year the Swiss Emerald set a new standard for comfort and elegance when it was launched, and our new ship will be its equal in every way. These two ‘sister ships’ will be the finest vessels cruising Europe’s historic waterways, and they’ll help us accommodate the incredible growth we’re seeing in river cruising.”

According to Tauck, the 361-foot ship will have two hot tubs, a bar and lounge, restaurant and wellness center. A maximum of just 118 guests will be accommodated in 59 outside-facing staterooms, including 14 luxury suites with 300 square-feet of living space highlighted by floor-to-ceiling windows, walk-in closets and marble baths featuring full size tubs. All cabins will have a plasma TV, mini-bar, radio, safe, individual air conditioning and L’Occitane toiletries.

RAPID GROWTH IN RIVER CRUISING
European river cruising has been among the fastest growing segments of Tauck’s diverse portfolio of travel experiences, which totals approximately 100 land and water-based itineraries in over 60 countries worldwide. Sales of Tauck’s river cruising trips this year are showing a strong double-digit increase over 2006, and they’re up more than 55% over 2005 levels. The company operates five different river cruising itineraries in Europe, including a 24-day, transcontinental “Grand European Cruise” from Amsterdam to the Black Sea (from $7,530 plus air). Tauck also has three additional programs in China and Egypt that each include a three-night river cruise component.

For more information, call 1 800 468 2825 or visit www.tauck.com.

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