Jetsettersblog

Deilmann’s flagship, the Deutschland, will host the Württemberg Chamber Orchestra Heilbronn on the air-inclusive 14-day “Music Gala at Sea,” departing Hamburg, Germany, on Sept. 18, 2008. The cruise includes stops in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Portugal, Monaco and Spain. At least eight renowned artists will join the orchestra, including soprano Carolyn Sampson, pianist Erno Feher and guitarist Jose Maria Gallardo. The international music program is provided at no additional cost to the normal cruise fares, which range from $5,636 to $14,456 per person, double. Port charges are included as well as roundtrip air from dozens of U.S. gateways. As few as five couples constitute a group, making them eligible for a 10 percent discount off published fares.

Considered one of Europe’s best ensembles, Württemberg Chamber Orchestra Heilbronn, founded in 1960 by Professor Jörg Faerber, is now under the direction of Ruben Gazarian, whose extensive accomplishments by the age of 36 led to his appointment as principal conductor. Onboard the liner, passengers will be entertained by classical and modern compositions during recitals, concerts and theme nights. Discussions allow passengers to interact and talk about the works of composers and learn more about the talented musicians. Other artists joining the orchestra for the voyage are clarinetist Sharon Kam, cellist Claudio Bohorquez, violinist Alexander Sitkovetsky, marimba player Katarzyna Mycka and saxophonist Harry White. “English Language Only” shore excursions-many included in the fare-are offered at every port.

Deilmann’s Deutschland has 286 staterooms and was designed in the style of the Edwardian and 1920 eras. Staterooms have picture windows and marble-tiled bathrooms with full-size showers; suites are equipped with bathtubs. The international, English-speaking staff of 280 provides more than a 2-to-1 crew to passenger ratio. The ship offers three restaurants, an outdoor dining terrace and seven bars and cafes. Other features of the nine-deck ship include a library lounge, outdoor and indoor pools, three sun decks, promenade deck, ballroom for nightly entertainment and dancing, and a wellness center with fitness and spa facilities. Travelers arranging their own air deduct $750 per person from the cruise fare. Deilmann also offers business-class fares for an additional supplement on selected itineraries.

For more information, call 800-348-8287 or visit www.deilmann-cruises.com/music