AmaWaterways Debuts 2021 "A Celebration of Wine River Cruises Through Europe" Itineraries

AmaWaterways, the luxury river cruise line known for curating incredible epicurean experiences, launched its new “A Celebration of Wine River Cruises Through Europe”, more than 60 exclusive wine-themed departures planned for its upcoming 2021 season. Three all-new itineraries will showcase the famed vineyards and historic sights of Europe, including AmaWaterways’ first journey into France’s Burgundy region.

Specially designed to further immerse guests into the history of Europe’s renowned wine regions, each Celebration of Wine River Cruise is hosted by a qualified North American wine expert, who brings hand-selected wines on board to serve during a special meal and tastings. Some wines come from the expert’s own winery and other varieties are sourced from wineries located along the river cruise itinerary. Welcoming between 102 and 196 guests, the wine-themed river cruises provide a unique and delicious dimension to already enticing itineraries – at no additional cost.

“When we launched our first hosted wine cruises in 2010, we simply wanted to share our appreciation of wine and showcase the enjoyment of both New World and Old World varietals through interesting excursions and fun wine tastings. The response we have received has been remarkable, and each year we have added more departures with interesting wine experts representing vineyards from across the country,” said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-founder. “Whether you are a wine lover, a knowledgeable connoisseur or simply enjoy a sip here and there, our intimate Celebration of Wine River Cruises provide an added dimension to the river cruise experience. We look forward to welcoming guests on more than the 60 wine cruises on 19 itineraries planned for 2021!”

Catering to the growing demand for its French itineraries, AmaWaterways will debut two new itineraries in 2021 both offering select Celebration of Wine River Cruise departures:

• Marking AmaWaterways’ first entrance in the Burgundy region of France, the Essence of Burgundy & Provence itinerary showcases traditional French wine and cuisine in one delectable river cruise. Guests will uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur-Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. This wine cruise will explore French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, inviting guests to taste their way through the French culinary capital of Lyon. Guests may opt to join a scenic cruise to Mâcon to enjoy a tasting of Mâconnais wines, a visit to a local French cooking school in Valence, a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet and many other food, wine and wellness focused excursions.
• Onboard Impressions of the Seine & Paris, guests will discover the most renowned Parisian destinations as well as sites memorialized by famous Impressionist painters along France’s Seine River. Sailing onboard AmaDante from Paris to Le Havre (or reverse) guests are immersed in the best of Northern France, including quaint towns and Normandy’s historic hubs. Beyond idyllic scenery at every turn, guests will enjoy traditional culinary treasures including Norman chocolate, cheese, apple-based Calvados and local cider. Highlight pre- or post-cruise are three nights in St. Malo with a visit to the magical island monastery of Mont St. Michel.
• Also new for 2021, Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps itinerary will captivate guests sailing the legendary Rhine river, contoured by vineyard-clad hills and castles. The seven-night cruise explores the allure of France’s Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and in Riquewihr, a small town known for its cobbled streets of quaint tasting rooms and wine shops. Additional highlights include Breisach, rising above the vineyards of the Rhine, and Freiburg, one of Germany’s sunniest cities and gateway to the Black Forest. In these fabled towns lost in time, guests will taste local flavors and touch history up close with guided hikes and bike rides. From Amsterdam’s colorful canals to the majestic Swiss Alps, this wine cruise is a journey into the heart of each destination.