Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps Christmas Wine Cruise 2024
Nov 25, 2024 to Dec 2, 2024
Amsterdam to Basel
Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps
Christmas Wine Cruise
Embark on a captivating Rhine River cruise, unveiling fairytale castles, historic vineyards, and enchanting Christmas markets. Commence in Amsterdam, then venture to Germany's Cologne, Rüdesheim's winemaking hamlet, and Heidelberg. Explore Strasbourg's oldest Christmas Market and Rüdesheim's Drosselgasse. Cruise the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, adorned with 40 castles. Discover Alsace's charm and the Swiss Alps' grandeur. Sail aboard an elegantly decorated ship, immersing in festive decor, glittering trees, and holiday spirit through the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland
Included Features
- 7-night cruise in elegantly appointed accommodations
- Onboard wine pairings with award-winning cuisine
- A wine expert will lead tastings and discussions
- Special tours and tastings at local wineries and private cellars
- Free time to visit iconic Christmas Markets in France, Germany and Switzerland
- Breakfast and lunch buffets featuring regional cuisine; multi-course dinners made with fresh local ingredients
- All-day tapas menu and afternoon tea; 24-hour coffee station
- Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
- Fine dining at The Chef’s Table and Main Restaurant
- Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
- Small group guided shore excursions with a variety of choices and activity levels
Not Included
- Air Fare - Travel Insurance - Gratuities - Laundry
Board the ship for your Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps Wine Cruise. (D)
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, then join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. End your city tour with a visit to a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer. As an alternative, examine the historic architectural styles on display throughout the Cologne Cathedral during a guided tour. This 13th-century Gothic marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion, and the church withstood 14 hits from aerial bombs during World War II. Active guests will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. Or drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. (B,L,D)
Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la République before walking through its iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)
Bid farewell to Basel and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Inspired by classic ocean yachts, AmaSerena is the epitome of European river cruising elegance and a destination in itself. Spacious staterooms, most with twin balconies, are just the beginning. Lounges with rich, vibrant color dazzle with exceptional riverside views while dining venues, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, serve award-winning cuisine featuring local flavors.
Deposit and Final Payment:
To confirm a river cruise or river cruise and land reservation, we require a deposit of $400 per person.
Final payment is due no later than 90 days before the travel start date. Failure to provide full payment by 90 days prior will result in cancellation of all services booked with AmaWaterways.
Cancellation Charges:
|
DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE |
CRUISE & LAND CANCELLATION CHARGE |
|
121 days or more prior to departure |
$200 |
|
120-90 days prior to departure |
$400 |
|
89-60 days prior to departure |
35% of cruise and land price |
|
59-31 days prior to departure |
50% of cruise and land price |
|
30 days to 25 hours prior to departure |
100% of cruise and land price |
|
24 hours or less |
100% of cruise and land price |
Available Packages
Suite (Violin Deck)- French Balcony & Outside Balcony 300 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $7,372.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Category AA (Violin Deck)- French Balcony & Outside Balcony 235 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $6,072.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Category AB (Cello Deck)- French Balcony & Outside Balcony 235 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $5,872.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Category BB (Cello Deck)- French Balcony & Outside Balcony 210 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $5,472.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Category C (Violin and Cello Deck)- French Balcony 170 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $4,872.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Category D (Piano Deck)- Fixed Windows 160 sq. ft. (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
June 30, 2024
Starting At: $3,872.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Extra Options
2 Nights Amsterdam Pre Cruise (price per person based on double occupancy)
Unavailable as of
October 15, 2024
$750.00
2 Nights Amsterdam Pre Cruise (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
October 15, 2024
$1,280.00
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a captivating city renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city center is a labyrinth of charming narrow streets lined with iconic gabled houses, cozy cafes, and lively markets. Amsterdam boasts world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum, showcasing masterpieces by Dutch masters, and the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the renowned artist's works. The city's canals, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer scenic boat tours and a unique perspective on Amsterdam's rich history and character. With its tolerant and progressive spirit, Amsterdam also embraces diversity, evident in its lively nightlife, diverse culinary offerings, and the iconic Red Light District.
- 2 nights hotel in Amsterdam
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Convenient transfers between your hotel and ship
- Visit Zaanse Schans, observing life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village
- Enjoy a guided walking tour of Amsterdam
- The services of one of our wonderful Cruise Managers – unique in the industry
3 Nights Lake Como Post Cruise (price per person based on double occupancy)
Unavailable as of
October 15, 2024
$1,440.00
3 Nights Lake Como Post Cruise (price based on single occupancy)
Unavailable as of
October 15, 2024
$2,040.00
A glacial lake in northern Italy, Lake Como is renowned for its stunning natural scenery. Its inverted Y-shape is surrounded by lush mountains, charming villages, and opulent villas with immaculate gardens. The central town of Bellagio offers panoramic views and a vibrant lakefront. Popular activities include scenic boat tours, exploring historic villas, and savoring the region's cuisine and wines. With its romantic ambiance and timeless beauty, Lake Como captivates visitors worldwide.
- 3 nights in Lake Como at the Como Hilton Hotel (or similar)
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Convenient transfers from the ship to your hotel
- Tour Bellinzona, Switzerland on the way to your hotel
- Take a walking tour of Lake Como, a former glacial lake and popular resort area for the rich and famous
- Enjoy a boat excursion to the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio
- The services of one of our wonderful Cruise Managers – unique in the industry