Deal: How to save 40% on the price of these European river cruises

CroisiEurope is a small French river cruise company you may not have heard of until now. The family-run line will turn 40 next year and is offering 40% off second passenger fares on cruises to selected European destinations in 2016.

The deal: For those who want to try out a river cruise, this may be a good place to start. Here are some of the itineraries and the savings included in this deal:

-- A six-day Great Cathedrals tour of France from Cologne to Strasbourg starting July 9 costs $1,461 for the first passenger and $876 for a companion, excluding tax and fees.

-- An eight-day cruise along the Andalusia section of Spain leaving Feb. 18 costs $1,750 for the first passenger and $1,049 for a companion, excluding tax and fees.

-- A Beautiful Blue Danube river cruise starting and ending in Vienna and leaving April 8 costs $2,288 for the first passenger and $1,373 for a companion.

When: You must reserve by Dec. 31; the offer is based on availability.

Tested: CroisiEurope says cabins are available on all 40% sale itineraries, but that may not last long. You can check the website to see whether sailing dates work for you.

By the way, prices include all meals, free Wi-Fi, beverages, shore excursions, port fees and travel insurance too.

Info: CroisiEurope, (800) 768-7232, or contact a travel agent.

ALSO

Gladys Knight, Journey, Trace Adkins and more will have you rocking on these cruises

Chef Curtis Stone’s new specialty restaurants on Princess Cruises are about sharing

MSC Cruises partners with Cirque du Soleil for entertainment at sea

U.S. News rates ‘best of’ in cruises, with some surprising (in a good way) results