An interesting article about those Art Auctions on cruise ships.

Scenic Tours' Sapphire to Make July 4 Debut

Scenic Tours' new riverboat Scenic Sapphire is set to welcome passengers onboard on July 4. The sold-out 2008 itineraries sail on the Rhine and Danube rivers, between Amsterdam and Budapest on the initial 15-day "Jewels of Europe" cruise. More than 80 percent of cabins have private balconies measuring over 25 square feet. The superior Danube Deck also features services of a butler, who can be summoned at the touch of a button. Scenic's fares are all-inclusive with guided shore tours, gourmet meals, wine with dinner, airport transfers and all gratuities. Each day of the two-week trip offers Scenic FreeChoice, which allows passengers to select their sightseeing option. Since launching in 1987, Australia-based Scenic Tours entered the European river cruising market in 2005 and has invested $100 million to introduce a fleet of new ships in 2008. For more information, visit www.scenictours.com.

Uniworld to Launch 10th Company-Owned Ship River Beatrice



Uniworld will launch its 10th company-owned ship, the River Beatrice, in 2009. The river ship is slated to sail next March of 2009 along the Danube. It will offer two itineraries in Europe: the nine-day Enchanting Danube from March through November and the nine-day Danube Holiday Markets, with departures in November and December. Both itineraries offer calls in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. Eighty percent of the River Beatrice's staterooms offer French balconies. The ship also offers more junior suites than any comparable ship, as well as an owner's suite. Room appointments include hotel-style beds with Egyptian cotton sheets and European comforters, plush terry robes, bottled water, individual air conditioning and flat-screen televisions offering a selection of viewing choices. The ship also boasts a lounge with panoramic views, a restaurant, a library, a sundeck, massage services and a fitness center. Complimentary bicycles are available for guests' use in ports. Call Kidd's Cruises & Tours 650-349-6223 or email for details.