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Experience the Beauty of Fall Foliage by Boat

Chicago, IL (PRWEB) August 31, 2011

It’s that time of year when leaves change color, crisp autumn scents fill the air and Americans get behind the wheel to take in the season’s foliage. But it’s boaters who know the best views are from the water and non-boaters might be surprised at how easy it is to climb aboard. Across the country, fall foliage cruises offer nature enthusiasts coveted views of the changing colors creating unforgettable experiences and sights for the whole family.

“If you’ve ever taken to the water during fall, you know it’s a magical experience—the warm sun bouncing light off of the water and trees creates a spectacle like no other,” notes boater and Discover Boating spokesman Carl Blackwell. “We believe we’ve found the best-of-the-best with our ‘top eight’ fall foliage destinations so grab your family and friends and make plans to share the experience of autumn from a boat!”

As the days get shorter, consider turning off the computer and getting on the water to enjoy nature’s vibrant fall colors before winter arrives. DiscoverBoating.com can help boat owners plan their next on-the-water adventure and show novices how to get started in boating. If you’re not a boat owner but want to experience fall foliage from the water and see for yourself why 75 million Americans go boating each year, check out DiscoverBoating.com for tips on how you can give it a try.

Discover Boating surveyed a network of boating experts to compile the eight top U.S. waterways for viewing fall foliage, many of which offer cruising, rental and charter options:

Bar Harbor, Maine: As the entrance to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers spectacular New England autumn scenery along the rugged Maine coast. Boaters can dock locally to explore this charming town and its abundance of seafood restaurants. Novices can take advantage of Bar Harbor’s numerous rental and charter opportunities from nature cruises to their very own customized boat ride.

Peak Season: Late September to Mid-October

More Information: maine.gov/doc/foliage/

Lake Chelan, Washington: Located on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, the narrow and deep 55-mile long lake boasts tree-lined state parks and forest service campgrounds. Lake Chelan also leads to Stehekin, a tiny mountain wilderness village only accessible by water with spectacular scenery. It’s easy to enjoy the sparkling water by boat with several marina, charter and rental options in the area. There are also ferries that leave for Stehekin daily, but you can also charter a boat with friends and family.

Peak Season: Mid-September to Mid-October

More Information: fs.fed.us/r6/fall-colors/

Lake George, New York: Nicknamed the “Queen of American Lakes” and located at the southeast base of the Adirondacks, Lake George, is the largest lake in the area covering more than 30 miles of shoreline. Nature takes center stage during the autumn months with tree-lined mountainsides surrounding the lake with reds, oranges and golds often painted against clear blue skies. “Leaf Peeping” boat tours are popular at Lake George in addition to many rental and charter options to enjoy the fall scenery from the water.

Peak Season: Late September to Early October

More Information: lakegeorgechamber.com/fall.htm

Lake Jocassee, South Carolina: This 7,565-acre, man-made lake is tucked deep in South Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and accessible through Devils Fork State Park. It boasts an undeveloped shoreline with picturesque scenery, such as waterfalls cascading into the lake. In addition to outstanding fall foliage at Lake Jocassee, autumn also brings green marsh grasses to shimmering fall hues of gold and amber.

Peak Season: Late October to Early November

More Information: southcarolinaparks.com/beautiful-places/fall_foliage.aspx

Lake Monroe, Indiana: Situated in south central Indiana near Bloomington, Lake Monroe is the state’s largest lake. Surrounded by 13,200 acres of lush, protected forest and three recreational areas, it’s an ideal destination for viewing fall foliage. The lake is served by a full-service marina with nine launch ramps, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists.

Peak Season: Mid-October to Early November

More Information: in.gov/visitindiana/leafcam/

Lake Tahoe, California: Located at 6,225 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the border of Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe is a boating paradise. Fall foliage along the shoreline is filled with varied hues of yellow as the aspen trees change color. Visitors may also be fortunate to catch a rare bird migration or the chance of a meteor shower. Those looking to take in the sights aboard a boat have an abundance of options with numerous marina, rental and charter options at their fingertips.

Peak Season: September to November

More Information: californiafallcolor.com/

Lake Tellico, Tennessee: With more than 15,000 acres of surface area, 373 miles of shoreline and waterways connecting to Fort Loudon Lake, the Tennessee River and other waterways, Lake Tellico is the perfect boating destination. It’s an ideal spot to experience an array of fall colors from the pure blue waters that back up into the Great Smoky Mountains, where onlookers get a unique vantage point of hillsides overflowing in crimson, gold and scarlet leaves. Lake Tellico provides beautiful autumn scenery, but also offers scenic, long-distance cruising options. For instance, boating to a University of Tennessee football game on the Tennessee River outside of Neyland Stadium is a great opportunity to give nature enthusiasts and football lovers the best of both worlds.

Peak Season: Mid-October to Late November

More Information: fall.tnvacation.com/

Saugatuck, Michigan: With more than 11,000 inland lakes and 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, this is a popular destination for those who love life on the water. Michigan’s southwestern coast, situated on Lake Michigan, includes the quaint artist’s haven of Saugatuck. With spectacular views from the water of tree-lined hillsides, dunes and Lake Michigan sunsets, this is a perfect spot to take in the autumn’s hues.

Peak Season: Throughout October

More Information: michigan.org/Topics/Fall/Default.aspx

About Discover Boating

Discover Boating is a national awareness campaign developed by the recreational boating industry and managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). Discover Boating programs focus on increasing participation and building interest in recreational boating by demonstrating the fun, benefits and accessibility of boating, while helping potential boaters experience why life is better with a boat. To find out more, visit DiscoverBoating.com.

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

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Classes meet the outdoors as Island Boat Lines prepare for their ninth year offering Eco Tour Field Trips for school children of all ages and economic backgrounds.

(PRWEB) August 31, 2011

Teachers and students are counting the days until they get out of the classroom and explore the Indian River Lagoon eco system with Island Boat Lines. Surprisingly, this field trip may also be the first time some of the children will ever be on a boat.

Since 2002 Island Boat Lines has offered discounted field trips for school children of all ages. These eco tour trips continue to be popular amongst everyone. “We have had schools return year after year. The teachers say that “In search of wildlife” is the favorite field trip of the year. It is so exciting to see the joy on the students faces when they see the dolphins and manatees for the very first time. said Debbie Sheridan, the Island Boat Lines field trip coordinator.

Island Boat Lines USCG certified vessels are very safe so teachers and chaperon’s can relax during the adventure. This year the students will participate in an interactive scavenger hunt “In Search of Wildlife” though the Cocoa Beach 1,000 Islands. The hunts will be guided by USCG Certified Captains and professional Naturalists who will assist the students discover wildlife on the Indian River Lagoon as they journey through the Thousand Islands”. Some of the species they will be seeking during their hunt are double crested cormorant, great egrets, cattle egrets, snowy egrets, great blue heron, mottled duck, royal terns, least terns, little blue heron, white ibis, wood stork, brown pelican, manatees, Atlantic bottle nose dolphin, otters, raccoon, squirrel, American alligator, water snake, diamondback terrapin turtle and a variety of plants and trees as well as the random barking dog.” said Debbie

Debbie Sheridan works personally with every teacher to ensure all field trip are successful. Her attention to details and strong bonds she has built over the years with teachers is remarkable. Debbie recommends that teachers call now to ensure they secure a date for their class field trip. Dates will be limited due to the demand for this popular trip.

Island Boat Lines has overcome a organization milestone by establishing exclusive dockage at Sunset Cafe in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Sunset Cafe is a lovely waterfront restaurant where the children can board the vessels safely from proper docks and have access to clean facilities. Along the journey the class may stop at a waterfront park to enjoy a packed lunch and stretch their legs or they may choose to have lunch at Sunset Cafe.

Island Boat Lines also offer daily tours for the regular public departing at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm as well as shore excursions for passengers from cruise ships visiting Port Canaveral.

Island Boat Lines is only 45 minutes from Orlando and walking distance to Cocoa Beach world famous Ron Jons Surf Shop. Island Boat Lines have a very informative website that display photo’s and prices. http://www.IslandBoatLines.com To make a reservation or inquire about field trips call 321-454-7414 or email Tours(at)islandboatlines(dot)com

Island Boat Lines is also offering other activities this school year for field trips. Teachers may consider taking their class on an old fashion riverboat adventure on board the Indian River Queen, a triple deck paddle wheel boat located in Cocoa Florida. http://www.IndianRiverQueen.com This trip is a great way to study Mark Twain literature about riverboat adventures.

Fishing adventures and workshops are also available with http://www.OrlandoFishingAdventures.com

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©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

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Canvas Prints of Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, from Robert Harding

• This 18×12 Canvas Print features an image chosen by Robert Harding. Estimated image size 457x305mm.
• White Sides Photo printed on archival quality canvas. Laminated. Canvas print stretched and hand mounted over thick 1 3/8 inch wooden bars. No frame, Gallery art appearance. Ready to hang
• Image Description: Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, Hungary, Europe
• For any queries regarding this item please contact Robert Harding c/o Media Storehouse quoting Media Reference 3666314
• © Jean Brooks

18×12 Canvas Print, White Sides. , Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest,. Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, Hungary, Europe. Chosen by Robert Harding. Photo printed on archival quality canvas. Laminated. Canvas print stretched and hand mounted over thick 1 3/8 inch wooden bars. No frame, Gallery art appearance. Ready to hang. This item is shipped from our American lab.

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Aboard Uniworld Cruises River Empress: Watch how close the bridge is to a few heads…then up pops the Captain.
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Canvas Prints of City cruise boat on the River Thames, London, England, United Kingdom, Europe from Robert Harding

• This 14×11 Canvas Print features a cropped image chosen by Robert Harding. Estimated image size 356x279mm.
• White Sides Photo printed on archival quality canvas. Laminated. Canvas print stretched and hand mounted over thick 1 3/8 inch wooden bars. No frame, Gallery art appearance. Ready to hang
• Image Description: City cruise boat on the River Thames, London, England, United Kingdom, Europe
• For any queries regarding this item please contact Robert Harding c/o Media Storehouse quoting Media Reference 3666944
• © Michael Kelly

14×11 Canvas Print, White Sides. , City cruise boat on the River Thames, London, England, United Kingdom, Europe. City cruise boat on the River Thames, London, England, United Kingdom, Europe. Chosen by Robert Harding. Photo printed on archival quality canvas. Laminated. Canvas print stretched and hand mounted over thick 1 3/8 inch wooden bars. No frame, Gallery art appearance. Ready to hang.

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Framed Prints of Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, from Robert Harding

• This Framed 20×16 Print features an image chosen by Robert Harding. Estimated image size 508x339mm.
• Black Satin Frame with Off-White Mat 30×20 wooden frame with mat and RA4 20×16 print. Finished back including brown backing paper, hanging bracket and corner bumpers
• Image Description: Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, Hungary, Europe
• For any queries regarding this item please contact Robert Harding c/o Media Storehouse quoting Media Reference 3666314
• © Jean Brooks

Framed 20×16 Print, Black Satin Frame with Off-White Mat. , Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest,. Pleasure boat on River Danube in front of Parliament building, Budapest, Hungary, Europe. Chosen by Robert Harding. 30×20 wooden frame with mat and RA4 20×16 print. Finished back including brown backing paper, hanging bracket and corner bumpers.

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Demystifying Boat Loans

Fort Lauderdale, FL (PRWEB) March 29, 2006

If you have decided to take a boat loan you need to keep a few points in consideration. First and the foremost thing you need to do is to decide which boat you wish to buy and find out its price, this will help you in determining how much funds do you need. The next thing is to unearth how much money you have to invest in the boat. Both these steps will help you in finding how much money you exactly need to borrow with a boat loan.

There are two types of boat loans available in the loan market – secured and unsecured boat loan. Secured boat loan requires a borrower to put some kind of collateral to become eligible for the loan. Tenants can apply for an unsecured boat loan, which does not require a borrower to put a security against the loan. In the same way, homeowners who wish to protect their home from the risk of repossession too can apply for an unsecured boat loan.

Boat loans are offered at both fixed as well as variable rate. In case of a fixed rate loan, you will have to pay a fixed sum of money every month; this loan option will help you in accommodating your budget each month. On the other hand, in variable rate loan or adjustable rate loan the interest rate fluctuates with market interest rate. This interest rate loan option will allow you to take advantage of the falling market interest rate. At this time, you can expect the lowest rates in recent history. Loans are now amortized over 15-20 years, require 20% minimum down payment and, fixed rates are from 5.5% to 6.75%.

Marine loans generally have no points on the loan. They are all “simple interest” loans with no pre-payment penalty. If you know you will only keep the boat 2-3 years then the “out of pocket” expense is surprisingly low. Many yacht buyers have a three-year “itch cycle”. That is, they keep a boat for three years, then they “get the itch” to sell it and try out another boat for three years. If your credit score is less than 600 then the situation may be difficult. Lenders mainly look at the debt to income ratio. Use only marine lenders, as most banks do not understand the yacht lending business and don’t lend for yachts valued over $ 100K.

If you know your income as shown on your tax returns will be not be at least 200% of your debts then ask for a “no-income verification” loan. Essex does these.

Do take into consideration the various fees associated with the boat loan that sometime results in a low cost seeming loan turning out to be costly. A boat loan may accounts for fees such as underwriting fees, processing fees, cost of credit report, and other related costs. Make sure to consider all the cost involved which will help you in deciding which loan option is best suited to your needs.

When you reach out in the market to find the best boat loan there will be an enormous number of lenders offering you great loan deals. Now, you have to decide whether you want to undergo the lengthy stressful loan process or a fast, easy and cheap loan. The Majority of you will opt for the second option as everyone wishes to save his or her valuable time and money. Online lenders aim to provide you with the comfort of getting a cheap and fast boat loan arranged.

Online loans are easy to apply for. All you do is fill out an online application form with some of your personal and financial information. Lenders will get back to you with the loan deals they find appropriate for you. Don’t accept the very first loan deal you get. Search around, collect loan quotes from lenders and compare them to find the loan deal that you find to be perfect matching your needs and desires to the best

The Application Process

Some lenders will require a full written application, while others will take the application right over the phone. This primarily depends upon your loan amount – the more you want to borrow, the more details need to be provided. The important thing to remember is to be as complete as possible and you will find the process will move along much more quickly. Include complete name, address, phone numbers, employment details, income as requested, details on home ownership (if applicable) and all monthly debt service.

When income verification is required, depending on the size of your loan request, you will probably be asked to provide copies of your tax returns for the past 2 years. You may also be asked to prepare a personal financial statement, which is simply a snapshot in time of your assets and liabilities and shows your net worth. The information requested is necessary to provide the best loan decision, so your cooperation is a plus.

Have all of the boat information available for the application, such as year, make, model, power, optional equipment and any upgrades. Identify the total cost, which will include

    the purchase price

    any equipment upgrades or additional accessories you may be considering

    any sales taxes that must be paid at the time of purchase

    registration, title, or documentation expenses.

You will be signing your application, which will include your authorization to have the prospective lender or financial service company examine your credit. If you do the application over the phone you will be verbally authorizing the credit review.

The Loan Underwriting Process

The boat loan decision process is, really, quite simple and straightforward. There are two major aspects that are examined; You and The Boat. You:

Your credit history will be reviewed for continuity and satisfactory repayment of present and past credit obligations, looking for loan amounts comparable to your request. Of particular interest will be the level of revolving debt (credit cards) you have and the limits of your credit cards, expressed as available credit.

Another important factor is debt to income ratio. The lender will look at your present monthly obligations and add the monthly payment for the boat loan (they also may add presumed operating and maintenance costs of the boat) to determine your monthly debt. They will compare this to current income as stated on the credit application or verified in the tax returns. Your net worth may be considered for stability and as a secondary source of repayment.

Many boat buyers are very worried about how their credit report will affect their ability to buy a boat. Most people will not need to worry about the effect of their credit history during the boat financing process.

However, you can be better prepared if you get a copy of your credit report to review before you apply for your boat loan. That way, if there are any errors you can take steps to correct them before you make your application.

If you have had credit problems, be prepared to discuss them honestly with a boat financing professional. Responsible boat loan professionals know there can be legitimate reasons for credit problems, such as unemployment, illness or other financial difficulties. If you had a problem that’s been corrected, and your payments have been on time for a year or more, your credit may be considered satisfactory.

The boat loans industry grades a person’s credit like many other industries. Grades are based on payment history, amount of debt payment, equity position, bankruptcies, credit scores, etc.

Market Value

The process here is for the lender to be satisfied that the selling price reflects a realistic market value of the vessel, your down payment meets their guidelines and is in line with your credit profile, and they are comfortable with the loan-to-value. Other factors come into play, such as the type and age of the boat you are buying.

The lender will research the market value of your boat through various sources that include price guides, comparable boats on the market, discussions with yacht brokers about the boat and what other comparable products are selling for, and a marine survey by a professional with whom the lender is comfortable.

Bank Catch 22

Sometimes banks say they are “interested in yacht lending” but they are really only interested in finding that “one in a hundred golden borrower”… so you waste your time filling out forms only to be rejected if you don’t have 110% perfect credit. Have a current copy of you tax return to fax them for a quick verbal approval before proceeding.

Avoid Stamp Fees

For those who live in Florida keep in mind if you are traveling, sign your loan documents out of the state of Florida to avoid paying “State Document Stamp Fees” If you sign your loan paperwork in Florida you will pay a state fee of $ 3.50 per $ 1000 of the loan amount.

Lender Pre-Approval

Loan interest payments are deductible as “second home mortgage interest expenses” unless you already take this deduction on a second home.

Seller Financing

Concerning “seller financing”… It may be possible in a very few, very rare cases like with some “501- c(3)” charities. But you will need 40% down and are severely limited to only the boats they have taken in as donations (it will NOT be your dreamboat). Ask your broker what is available here. Because yachts can be easily moved out of the country, 99.9% of all sellers will not agree to seller financing.

Factor in Foreign Exchange Rates

Foreign currency exchange rates can have a substantial impact on the price of yachts.

You should be aware of how this can affect prices. In recent memory, the Euro was trading at .88 to the dollar; that is, one US dollar would buy .88 Euros. Now the Euro costs 1.26 dollars. So a yacht priced at 200,000 Euros used to cost $ 176,000 but now costs $ 252,000 (with a 1.26 rate)! As you can now see, the dollar has really weakened against the Euro. So, Americans won’t be buying many European owned yachts as long as the dollar remains weak. Foreign exchange traders say this is happening because Arab oil producers are afraid to hold dollars for political reasons and they are now demanding Euros in payment for crude oil.

Also, the Arabs have dumped billions of dollars in savings and bought Euros and Euro-denominated investments instead. So, the Euro is becoming the “currency of the world” and this trend will probably continue. On the other hand, if you have Euros, you should be buying yachts owned by Americans and take them back to Europe for re-sale. Dollar-denominated yachts are cheap for Europeans now.

Vendors

Keep in mind the best way to attain the boat and loan you desire is through extensive research. The more you know the easier it will be to navigate through the obstacles that will come your way during this process. Below is a list of vendors to give you a head-start in your search.

Offshore Financial is known for its reputation for being an industry leader in marine financing. Your personal contact, Jennifer Moore, will work hard to offer you the most competitive rates and terms, regardless if you have your eyes on a private Day-sailor or a Megayacht. Let her assist you in making your cruising dreams an affordable reality!

New Coast Financial – Let Cindy Lewis of NewCoast Financial guide you through all of the options that are open to you with regards to marine financing. She is highly qualified to answer any questions you may have and help make your loan process hassle free. She is committed to ensuring that your loan is placed with a bank that best fits your financial needs.

Financial Underwriters Network specializes in boat financing nationwide, we offer competitive rates and a variety of loan programs to best suit your individual needs. Complete our on-line loan application today, or call our office (800) 231-4003 24/7 personal assistance available to take an application over the phone.

Beacon Credit Services offers an on-line application with instant approval along with fixed, adjustable and variable rate loans up to 20 years with no application fees. Refinance upto 100% of the value of your boat. Foreign Flag (U.S. Citizens only) and Letters of Credit. Minimum loan is $ 20,000.

Russo Marine Financial Services, Inc. a subsidiary of Russo Marine, can assist you with financing or refinancing new and pre-owned power and sail boats purchased from dealers, brokers or private parties.

BoatLoanSuperStore.com (minimum loan $ 20,000) is one of the preferred lenders among Yacht dealers and brokers, they offer several experienced lenders offering convenient rates and terms, serving the continental United States.

They are a full service marine lender, offering loans for Power Boats, Sail Boats, House Boats, and High Performance Boats. They also provide USCG Documentation, State Registration and Extended Service Programs for New and Used boats. Serving the industry for over a decade, applications are normally approved in 6 hours or less!*

SourceOne Federal Credit Union – Minnesota Residents Only -Great long term and low rate Boat and RV loans. No application fee. Delivering Personalized Financial Services & Products for over 70 years.

SeaDream Boat Loans and Boat Insurance is the premiere West Coast brokerage for boat loans and boat insurance. Their goal is to help you achieve your nautical dreams by providing you with the best service for your boat financing and insurance needs.

Excel Credit – they will help you secure your boat loan with financing from $ 25,000 to Ten Million Dollars. In most southern states, we can arrange loans from $ 10,000. We offer terms up to 20 years.

Essex Credit is America’s leader in pleasure craft financing and offers boat loans with the lowest rates and the best terms available. With eight regional offices located in major boating areas, they offer personalized and efficient service from the initial application to the post closing paperwork.

Oak Hill Financial specializes in financing and refinancing new and used boats and yachts of all sizes. With an Oak Hill Financial loan you can expect no points, no prepayment penalties, terms to 20 years, simple interest, fixed rates, Coast Guard documentation and personal service. We fulfill loans for clients across the U.S.

For more information, please visit http://www.catamarans.com

©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.

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Perhaps you are bored with the bog standard ocean cruise; if so, why not try one of the European river boat cruises instead? This type of cruise travels to many locations far and wide around this continent and is a wonderful way to learn more about different cultures and traditions. You are able to explore some of the most beautiful and influential places on this planet.

The vessels used for these trips have to be smaller than the standard cruise liner so that they fit on the various canals and rivers. Generally the maximum passenger count is 200 and this lends itself to a feeling of closeness to others on the cruise. The river boats are able to navigate the narrower waters and take you to some wonderfully scenic and traditional locations.

The accommodation and overall service on European river boat cruises is as good as any other type of cruise you care to mention. The cabins are filled with modern facilities and many even have their own balconies. This lets you relax on your journey and enjoy the surrounding landscapes, many of which are home to less famous landmarks and ancient ruins.

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In conjunction with the lavish accommodation, there are many facilities available to passengers on board the river boats to keep them amused when they need a break from the breathtaking views. Gyms, steam rooms, games rooms, hairdressers and internet access are just some of the features that can be found on board the river boats.

European river boat cruises are not just all about taking in the rural lifestyle and traditions of these different countries. The boats to all into port in some well known and busy cities. Passengers can choose to stay on board or depart to investigate some tourist attractions or indulge in some retail therapy.

Russian river cruises are a popular option and present the passenger with some stunning views, spectacular art and historical buildings. The majority of Russian river cruises take passengers to the likes of St. Petersburg, Moscow and Rostov-on-don as well as some more unfamiliar destinations.

If you decide to book Russian river cruises or European river boat cruises as a vacation, then it is quite straightforward to do online. There are many cruise operators who have their own websites and provide the chance to book directly. You can also telephone many companies if you prefer. It is recommended that at the stage of booking your cruise that you mention any special requirements to the operator.

Any of the European river boat cruises that are available will provide you with a qualitative and exciting journey, giving the chance to investigate some unique territory. They will also leave a lasting impression and you will remember your cruise for many years afterwards.

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World’s First Green-Designed Passenger Boat Departs Florida Today for Educational Mission in Pittsburgh

FREEPORT, FL (Vocus) March 8, 2007

Explorer, RiverQuest’s newly constructed boat leaving Freeport, Florida today for its home port in Pittsburgh, is a state-of-the-art environmental classroom, a world benchmark “green” commercial vessel and a tourist attraction that is the first of its kind.

The launch of Explorer, the world’s first green-engineered floating classroom, marks a new era in marine design for environmental sustainability. Departing from its construction site in Freeport, Fla., the 90-foot, 150-passenger vessel will make a 16-day journey to its permanent home in Pittsburgh, Pa. RiverQuest provides river-based experiential learning about sustainability including ecology, environment science, energy, climate change, green engineering and river history and culture for students, teachers and the community through hands-on activities and technologies.

“Explorer represents a truly significant paradigm shift in environmental education. It is a tangible demonstration of our new Sustainability Education Program and it reflects the ‘leading edge’ nature of our mission,” said Karl Thomas, executive director, RiverQuest. “Together with a diverse team of marine and green design experts from industry and academia, we have created an entirely new approach to designing and building marine vessels by applying sustainable design to virtually every aspect of its construction. No one else anywhere does quite what we do; no one has a vessel quite like Explorer, which possesses extraordinary onboard technology that supports exploration and learning.”

New Standards in Green Marine Design:

Because there are no official standards for the design of “green” boats, RiverQuest assembled a unique team of naval architects, marine and electric-drive engineers, and green building experts from Pittsburgh, Pa.; across Florida; Atlanta, Ga.; Houston, Texas; and Germany. The melding of global expertise in boat design, alternative propulsions systems and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) design process and standards has resulted in a series of green applications that are completely new to the marine industry.

“We congratulate the engineering, design and green-building teams for an incredible achievement in building a boat that truly is the first of a kind – setting the educational standard for rivers-based science programs and setting a new green standard for marine vessels,” said Maxwell King, president of The Heinz Endowments. The foundation, a steady supporter of RiverQuest since its founding in 1991, has contributed more than $ 1 million toward Explorer’s $ 3.5 million construction cost. Other significant funders are the Richard King Mellon Foundation, The Buhl Foundation, the Hillman Foundation and the state Departments of Environmental Protection and Conservation & Natural Resources.

King said that the development of green certification for watercraft would bring significant health benefits to Allegheny County, where more than a third of its diesel particulate pollution comes from the 28,000 registered recreational watercraft that run on the region’s rivers.

The design and construction team assessed some 100 different green technologies and applied the best applicable and feasible to Explorer. The hybrid diesel-electric, battery powered boat includes:

    A state-of-the-art, Siemens-furnished hybrid propulsion system and integrated electrical system that is the first commercial implementation in the world.

    The world’s first marine application of the LEED™ design and construction standards that includes environmentally friendly coatings and paints, architectural windows, HVAC systems and a hull made of 100 percent certified steel.

    The ability to retrofit the power plant with solar, hydro and fuel cell technologies. RiverQuest will be adding a 1.5kW solar array to Explorer’s roof later this year.

    Water conservation technologies including the use of river water and waterless waste systems.

“We are proud to play a leading role in transforming the marine propulsion industry in this period of global concern about carbon emissions and climate change,” Reiner Pallmann, Vice President Process Solutions Division, Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc. “The Siemens ELFA™ propulsion system integrates multiple electrical power sources with propulsive and house power needs, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions and providing flexibility for current and future use of alternative sources of electricity. This collaboration with RiverQuest was a great opportunity to bring Siemens green technology to the commercial passenger market.”

Floating Environmental Classroom:

Explorer’s impact on the marine environment will be gentle, but its impact on America’s youth will be profound. This unique boat is designed to educate tens of thousands of K-12 students in the Ohio Valley, from western Pennsylvania to Missouri. All who board the vessel for hands-on learning will be connected with global environmental issues and specific challenges and opportunities such as water quality and quantity, climate change, responsible land use, renewable energy and green design.

Through a unique hands-on curriculum that involves water sampling and quality testing along rivers, public policy discussions and engagement with the boat’s green design features, students see firsthand the results of poor land and water use and learn the role that people and industry have in conservation and sustainability.

And students aren’t the only ones who will depart on the environmental voyages. RiverQuest will make the boat available to adult tourists and businesses. Explorer’s owner, Pittsburgh-based non-profit RiverQuest, has added a new line of adult education programs and charters to its business, which incorporates best practices from the social innovation sector, an industry trend that is growing increasingly important for nonprofits worldwide.

In the future, RiverQuest intends to install additional alternative energy sources, including solar panels later this year and wind and water turbines to the boat and to its expanded dock and landside facility.

For more details about Explore and RiverQuest, including a list of all development partners, technologies and boat facts, visit http://www.RiverQuest.org.

RiverQuest, formerly Pittsburgh Voyager, is an award-winning not-for-profit education organization offering river-based educational programs for students, teachers, and the community. RiverQuest also provides a range of public programs, including interpretive cruises and private charters for businesses, organizations and the public.

RiverQuest’s mission is to impact people’s relationships to the world’s environment through unique river-based education and adventure experiences. Since launching programs in 1995, RiverQuest has served more than 75,000 individuals through on-board education programming. More than 57,000 elementary, middle and high school students representing 227 schools from 65 school districts in 11 western Pennsylvania counties have participated in standards-based learning programs, with themes ranging from environmental science and regional history to physical science and mathematics. Along with students, more than 2,500 teachers and college students and 15,000 members of the general public have participated in RiverQuest programs.

For more information call 412-231-2712 or visit RiverQuest’s website at http://www.RiverQuest.org.

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