What’s better than selling a dream holiday? Experiencing it first-hand! Recently, four business owners from The Travel Village Group embarked on a dazzling four-night river cruise aboard Travelmarvel Vega, journeying from Vienna to Nuremberg as part of the Travel Village Group River Academy. Their mission? To immerse themselves in the world of river cruising, sample the highlights of the Travelmarvel experience, and bring back a treasure trove of insights for their clients.
Meet Travelmarvel Vega
Launched in 2020, Travelmarvel Vega is one of three modern river ships redefining luxury and comfort. Onboard, our agents explored state of the art amenities like the Sky Deck Terrace, complete with a rooftop bar, garden, and even a heated whirlpool for those chilly Danube evenings. The True North Lounge and Bar offered panoramic views of the river and its picturesque surroundings, perfect for relaxing during the cruise.
Day 1: Vienna
The journey began in Vienna, where agents checked into their cabins and familiarised themselves with the ship. Some enjoyed a leisurely walk along Kärntnerstrasse, Vienna’s iconic shopping street, while others admired the grandeur of the Hofburg Palace. With its Imperial Treasury and Spanish Riding School, Vienna set the tone for an elegant and enriching trip.
Day 2: Castles, Abbeys, and Wachau Wonders
Day two began in Dürnstein, a town straight out of a fairytale. Here, the group tackled the steep climb to Dürnstein Castle, known for imprisoning King Richard the Lionheart in 1192. The reward? Stunning panoramic views over the Danube.
Next up: sailing through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, dotted with vineyards and charming villages, before docking in Melk. A tour of the Melk Abbey, a breathtaking Benedictine monastery perched high above the river, left everyone in awe.
Day 3: Passau
The third day offered a leisurely morning to enjoy Vega’s facilities as the ship glided to Passau, a quaint Bavarian town where the rivers Danube, Inn, and Ilz meet. In the evening, the group indulged in a lively Taste of Bavaria dinner, featuring local beer, snacks, and traditional music and dance.
Day 4: Regensburg
Arriving in the enchanting town of Regensburg, the agents embarked on a guided tour of this World Heritage listed city. They wandered cobblestone streets, admired the Stone Bridge, and learned about the town’s ancient Roman roots at the Porta Pretoria. The day wrapped up with an exploration of Regensburg’s charming Christmas markets, an unexpected seasonal treat!
Behind the Scenes – Learning Onboard
Richard Cross, Group Commercial Manager, described the trip as a perfect learning experience:
“Hosting our agents onboard Travelmarvel Vega allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the river cruise product. Now, they can confidently guide clients toward their perfect river adventure.”
Jodie-Liane Tompkins, a participating travel agent, couldn’t agree more:
“It’s like doing five city breaks in one, with all meals and tours included. I loved the walking tours and docking in new places every day. It’s excellent value for money!”
The agents discovered the versatility of river cruising, from its smart casual dress code to the choice of participating in guided tours or exploring independently. Even the ship’s atmosphere exceeded expectations. Chris Forbes, a business owner, said:
“I thought river cruising was for older travellers, but I was so wrong! The vibe was lively and welcoming. Plus, the relaxed dress code will appeal to many clients.”
Final Thoughts
From iconic locks to tasting apple strudel in Regensburg, every moment onboard Travelmarvel Vega showcased the magic of river cruising. Heather Tarrant, another travel agent, highlighted her favorite memory:
“Sailing through the Wachau Valley was stunning. And climbing to Dürnstein Castle? Exhausting but so worth it!”
With all-inclusive dining, daily guided tours, and ever-changing scenery, river cruising delivers unforgettable value and convenience. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or casual adventurer, the Danube promises something extraordinary at every turn.
