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Rhine River Christmas EE Cruise

Make this Christmas unforgettable with a luxury cruise on the Rhine River aboard the AmaLucia Visit Christmas Markets and medieval villages that look like they’re from storybook tales. Sip on gluhwein or hot chocolate, indulge in some gingerbread and wander through the market stalls decorated for the holidays.

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CHERISH ALL THE GLORY OF THE SEASON IN GRAND EUROPEAN STYLE AS YOU CRUISE ALONG THE RHINE

BREISACH - Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and perhaps get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, a small replica of the famous version in New York, to commemorate the sculptor’s Colmar birthplace.

STRASBOURG - Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, 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.

DUSSELDORF - Dusseldorf is the capital city of North Rhine-Westphalia, the most populous state of Germany. It is a city in western Germany known for its fashion industry and art scene. It's divided by the Rhine River, with its Altstadt (Old Town) on the east bank and modern commercial areas to the west.

RUDESHEIM - Sail to Rüdesheim where you can visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum; or taste one of the town's special delights, Rüdesheimer Kaffee, ceremoniously made with brandy.

AMSTERDAM - Eclectic Amsterdam boasts amazing history, art, architecture, and museums, and you have a choice as to how you wish to explore it. The famous canals of Amsterdam await discovery on your city tour beginning with a scenic canal cruise followed by a walk to Begijnhof, known for its medieval buildings.

Airfare Additional - Please call for rates

Additionl Tour Dates may be Available - Please call for dates

Single Supplement Rates - Please call for rates

Price starting at $4,449.00 per person/Double occupancy

Cruise Only Fares are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy

Day One

AMSTERDAM - Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Christmas Markets on the Rhine cruise.

Day Two

AMSTERDAM UTRECHT - There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Asterdam to Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour.

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Day Three

DÜSSELDORF DUSSELDORF. Enjoy a scenic cruise into Düsseldorf. In the afternoon, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne on a guided tour of its 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. Then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets. Or explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Conclude the tour with a visit to the local Christmas Market. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city.

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Day Four

RHINE GORGE RÜDESHEIM - Cruise through the castleladen Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have four choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting followed by a Christmas Market visit to enjoy holiday traditions from around the world. Or go on a hike through the vineyards. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful ride over the vineyards on Rüdesheim’s gondola followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River before visiting the Christmas Market. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee.

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Day Five

LUDWIGSHAFEN - You have the choice to explore two of Germany’s historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Or hike along the Neckar River on the historic Philosopher’s Path followed by free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can bike along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore oneof G ermany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic Imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom).

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Day Six

STRASBOURG - Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. Later in the day, opt to visit BadenBaden and take in the town’s romantic Christmas Markets.

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Day Seven

BREISACH. Breisach is your gateway to medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the halftimbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town’s wonderful Christmas Markets. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Then enjoy free time at the Freiburg Christmas Markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through Breisach’s countryside.

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Day Eight

BASEL. Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Basel as you prepare for your return flight home.

FB=Full Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Suggested Packing

-Comfortable walking shoes

-Hat and Sunscreen

-Cash and Credit Cards (Only those needed)

-Medicine and spare prescriptions

-Extra glasses and/or contacts

-Book, Word Search and/or Crossword Puzzle

-Binoculars

-Seat Cushions and/or Blanket (If attending a parade or show)

-Ear plugs and sleep mask

-Mini-Sewing Kit

-Toiletries and Tissues

-Chargers for devices (Cell phones, Tablets, etc.)

-Extra Memory Cards (Digital Cameras) or Extra Film

Activity Level 3

This travel experience is perfect for those who want to see everything their destination has to offer. With the ability to navigate hills and uneven ground (1-2 hours with little difficulty), as well as climb into various modes of transportation, you'll be able to explore every corner of your destination without missing a thing. Plus, with some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure, you'll have the perfect harmony of flexibility and exploration.

Inclusions

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
Computer for internet access
Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
Mini-Fridge, Desk and sitting area
Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

Wellness Program 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 programs
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck whirlpool and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performances

AWARD-WINNING DINING

All onboard dining in a variety of venues
Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge