Glad tidings for singles
The buy: Avalon Waterways is waiving the single supplement on selected 2011 European River Cruises.
The savings: Up to $3,226.
The catch: The offer applies to only 12 sailings – most in April.
Why it's worth it: Itineraries range from Prague to Budapest to Amsterdam to Bucharest, and extensive sightseeing ashore and wine with dinner are included. With a maximum of 170 passengers, solo travellers will never feel lost in the crowds.
Book it: Visit www.avalonwaterways.ca for more information. Avalon sells through travel agents.
Upgrade for free
The buy: Sunquest is launching its 2011 Mediterranean Cruising program with MSC Cruises with two upgrade offers.
The savings: The “Best Upgrade Ever” offer is a free upgrade from an inside stateroom to an ocean-view balcony stateroom, a savings of up to $440 a person. The “Ultimate Free Upgrade' on the MSC Musica is an upgrade from an inside stateroom to a superior ocean-view balcony stateroom representing a savings of up to $600 a person.
The catch: You must book by Dec. 6.
Why it's worth it: With this offer, a one-week Eastern Mediterranean cruise out of Venice in a balcony stateroom starts at $2,247 a person, including return flight from Toronto as well as free wine package and a free water package.
Book it: For more information, visit www.sunquest.ca.
Double your savings
The buy: Uniworld Boutique River Cruise is offering Double Early-Booking Savings on 2011 Europe and Russia River Cruises.
The savings: $810 a person.
The catch: You must book and pay in full by Nov. 30.
Why it's worth it: Uniworld offers some 30 different itineraries and included are all meals onboard with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks during dinner as well as shore excursions hosted by English-speaking local guides; onboard entertainment and lectures; and all transfers on arrival and departure days.
Book it: Visit www.uniworld.com.
Early-bird rewards
The buy: Azamara Club Cruises is offering early-booking savings and an air credit on its 2011 Europe cruises.
The savings: Save $4,040: $2,020 per stateroom for booking early, and receive a $2,020 per stateroom credit for airfare. In addition, gratuities are included and there are 50 per cent savings on pre-booked shore excursions.
The catch: You must book by Dec. 31.
Why it's worth it: Named one of Travel + Leisure's Top 5 Large-Ship Cruise Lines for 2010, Azamara features longer stays in ports and more overnights at destinations, giving passengers more time to explore Europe's attractions.
Book it: Visit www.azamaraclubcruises.com for information on the cruises; then get booking details from your travel agent.
Special to The Globe and Mail
