Storybook scenery, sarcasm and satire will converge when best-selling author Christopher Moore hosts his second Storyteller cruise with Avalon Waterways. Expanding its popular Storyteller Series into its fourth year, Avalon Waterways’ new celebrity-hosted itinerary – Waltz Along the Danube: A Storyteller Cruise with Christopher Moore – will set sail in October 2025, from Vilshofen to Budapest.

This 10-day Illuminations on the Danube departure sails through the legends and legendary settings of the Danube River: A waterway that’s inspired empires, dynasties, winemakers, waltzes – and Moore’s newest novel – Anima Rising – which will debut in 2025. Moore’s fans are invited to celebrate his new book, with him, while exploring some of the most dramatic chapters in time, uncovering scenic ports, riveting plots and the richest banks of history on vacation.

“My newest book, Anima Rising, is set in Vienna in 1911,” said Christopher Moore, best-selling author and Storyteller host. “I first visited Vienna on an Avalon Waterways cruise a few years ago and I was so taken with the city, I knew I wanted to set a book there. I can’t wait to go back – this time, introducing readers of my books to the sights, scenes and stories of the city. This itinerary, as a whole, is incredible. The architecture of Budapest is stunning and the beauty of the Danube Gorge is one of the most extraordinary bits of nature I’ve ever seen, particularly in the fall. I’m looking forward to visiting the smaller towns along the river, too, like Durnstein, where you can see the castle where Richard the Lionheart was held prisoner in the 12^th century – real Robinhood stuff.”

Fans interested in joining Moore on the Danube River, where Rieslings and pilsners flow, will experience two full days in Vienna in the settings that set the stage for Moore’s book, plus the unrivaled music and art – and the coffee houses – where creative geniuses have converged for more than a century. They’ll also be privy to special gatherings with Moore – on board their award-winning Suite Ship – and on shore throughout their week together.

“I’m excited about my third cruise with Avalon – my second as a Storyteller host,” added Moore. “With just 150 people on board, this cruise offers the perfect setting for connection – with fans, new friends and with the world, at large.”

Moore’s 2025 cruise marks Avalon Waterways fourth year of its Storyteller Series of cruises and 11^th, celebrity-hosted cruise since the series’ launch. Past Storyteller hosts have included Diana Gabaldon, Cheryl Strayed, Gillian Flynn and Candace Bushnell. The company has three more Storyteller Cruises sailing in 2024 with limited space available: