This lucky reader has won an unforgettable 8-day Danube Cruise sailing luxury line, Avalon Waterways.
Avid cruiser, Julie Foster of Brisbane took home the $21,856 prize which includes a river cruise for two aboard the luxurious Danube Dreams, departing Budapest on July 19, 2025, and ending in Vilshofen, Germany on July 26, 2025.
She will stay in a stunning Panorama Suite (Cat P) for two (twin share). The prize includes up to $5,000 in airfare credits from any major Australian capital city, bringing the total prize value to an incredible $21,856.
The prize comes at a tragic time for Ms Foster, who lost her mum just the day before getting the winning call from Cruise Passenger.
“Mum passed away on Monday – 24 hours before I got the call from Cruise Passenger’s Phil Mahony.”
“Mum had just celebrated her 100th birthday and passed very peacefully while I held her hand. Mum was a great traveller and would tell me often how much she loved Europe and that I should go there,” Julie said.
“When Phil called I first thought he was the funeral director. Then I thought he was marketing or scamming. I wouldn’t have got his call if I’d been at work.”
“When I realised it was all real I was gobsmacked. Especially when he told me the date of departure. 19 July is my parents wedding anniversary! Mum’s birthday is two days later. So I guess I’ll be taking my parents with me too.”
While Julie has yet to embark on her first river cruise, she told Cruise Passenger it has always been on her bucket list.
“I have never been on a river cruise but I’ve always had it on my bucket list. That’s why I entered the competition but also as a surprise for my husband who always arranges our travel,” she said.
“What I’m looking forward to the most, besides immersing myself in such historic places and cultures, is to dance a gentle Viennese waltz as we float along the Danube.”
As the prize is for two, there was no doubt whom Julie would bring on the cruise.
“I’ll be bringing my husband (unless I get a higher bidder) as he is always so supportive and my favourite dance partner.”
To book your trip-of-a-lifetime, visit Avalon Waterways.
