Agents looking for a unique Scandinavian experience for their
clients may be interested in an historic cruise on Sweden’s Gota
Canal. Workers dug the 118-mile canal in the 1800’s, in order to
create a direct route from Gothenburg on the North Sea to Stockholm
on the Baltic. Today, the Gota Canal Steamship Company operates
cruises on the canal, on a route that takes passengers past the
lovely Swedish countryside, for an up-close look at quaint
villages, medieval castles, and ancient Viking sites.
Gota is the only company that operates overnight cruises on the
Canal. Its three vintage ships were completely refurbished in 2004,
and feature rich wood paneling and polished brass. Each of the
vessels features 25 or more cabins, a lounge and dining room.
Highlights of a Gota Canal trip include Birka Viking city, which is
a UNESCO World Heritage site; the13-th century Lacko Castle on the
lovely Lake Vanern; the Vadstena Cloister, which dates back to the
15th century; the Motala Motor Museum;seaside resort of Trosa, and
the 11-lock Berg staircase.
Air-inclusive 7 and 9-day itineraries are new for 2005, and
feature overnight stays in Stockholm and Gothenburg. The packages
include round-trip air from New York, with add-on fares available
from other U.S. cities. Prices start at $2280 per person (double
occupancy) for the 7-day package and $2860 per person (double
occupancy) for the 9-day package.
Norwegian Coastal Voyage Inc. is the exclusive U.S. reservations
representative for Gota Canal Steamship Company.
800- 323-7436
www.norwegiancoastalvoyage.us
