2025 : Captivating Rhine (Taste of Christmas) : 7-night Cruise : Amsterdam to Basel : ms AmaViola
Overview
Cruise From: Amsterdam to Basel
Aglow with seasonal lights and holiday festivities, the legendary Rhine captivates those who glide along its waters. Experience the allure of France's Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and its priceless gem, Colmar. Discover Breisach, the twinkling Christmas lights strung throughout the charming town, and Freiburg, one of Germany's picturesque cities and gateway to the Black Forest. Fabled towns lost in time present you with the chance to taste local flavors-Rudesheimer coffee and Christmas Markets' gluhwein-and to touch history up close with guided walking tour and active excursions. From Amsterdam's colorful canals to the majestic Swiss Alps, board your beautifully decorated ship and journey into the heart of the destinations you visit, experiencing the holiday spirit that comes alive in select markets along the Rhine during this Taste of Christmas Markets cruise.
Note: Select Christmas Markets will be open during select departures and may vary. For full details and dates, visit the tourism website for each city
COUNTRIES:France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
RIVERS:Rhine
Captivating Rhine (Taste of Christmas)
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and special interest tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Included Features
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stationsMini-fridge, desk and sitting areaBottled water replenished dailyAN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packagesInternet and Wi-Fi accessSun Deck pool with swim-up bar and walking trackFitness room, massage services and hair salonMain Lounge with panoramic views and barDaily entertainment including cultural performancesAWARD-WINNING DINING
All onboard dining in a variety of venuesRegionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredientsThe Chef's Table specialty restaurantWelcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaine des Rotisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala DinnerLa Chaine des Rotisseurs exclusive dining experienceUnlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinnerUnlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfastSip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinksTapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main LoungeA WORLD OF EXPLORATION
Immersive tours in every destinationGentle, regular, active and late-riser tour optionsBike tours and hikesSpecial interest toursKnowledgeable guidesPersonal headset for easy explorationAirport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterwaysDetailed Itinerary
Day 1 : AMSTERDAM - EMBARKATION
Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Captivating Rhine cruise.
Day 2 : AMSTERDAM
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)
Day 3 : DESSELDORF
As a leading hub for German culture, commerce, and architecture, Dusseldorf is a must-visit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you will have multiple options for the day's excursion. Explore this grand city on the Rhine by joining a walking tour, concluding with a tasting of Altbier, a local specialty brewed using traditional techniques. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city. If you're feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. 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. (B,L,D)
Day 4 : RHINE GORGE - REDESHEIM
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rudesheim. 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, Rudesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. (B,L,D)
Day 5 : LUDWIGSHAFEN
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of three excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany's Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher's Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany's oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe-a UNESCO World Heritage Site-and the medieval Old Gate, Altportel. Or join a guided bike tour along the shores of the river Neckar and enjoy a cycling break to explore the picturesque medieval town of Ladenburg. (B,L,D)
Day 6 : STRASBOURG, FRANCE
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 Republique before walking through its iconic 'La Petite France'district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathedrale de Notre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l'Orangerie. (B,L,D)
Day 7 : BREISACH, GERMANY
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and famous sights. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike in the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions. (B,L,D)
*Please Note: Black Forest Hike is weather dependent and may only operate at certain times of year. Please refer to your final documents for details.
Day 8 : BASEL, SWITZERLAND - DISEMBARKATION
After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
