AmaWaterways, Free Rail & Overseas Transfers on Selected European Cruises

AmaWaterways is delighted to offer an extended cruise and rail programme on some of our newest and most popular river cruise itineraries throughout Europe. As an alternative to flying to your chosen destination, you can now travel by rail** to join your European River Cruise, enjoying the beautiful landscapes pass by as you travel at first through the English countryside, and then into Europe.

Benefits of Travelling by Rail :

• No-Fly options from London St Pancras Station to a range of cruise destinations across the continent
• Relaxed, hassle-free travel with check-in up to 50 minutes before departure
• 2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage with no weight limit
• Free WiFi onboard
• City Centre arrival points
• An environmentally friendly way to travel 

Travel from London St. Pancras by Eurostar’s high speed-service to the continent, where, on arrival at your final overseas train station, you will be met by a private transfer which will whisk you to your ship. Plus, upgrade to Standard Premier from £99 per person on selected voyages. When your cruise finishes, a private transfer will meet you on disembarkation and take you to the train station for your return journey.

*Rail services include private return transfers between rail station and ship.

**When you travel by rail you will need to ensure you can manage your luggage throughout the entire journey from home to your final overseas train station. You will also need to be comfortable changing platforms and even train stations on several of our departures.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS :

Essence of Burgundy & Provence

AmaWaterways Selling Price from £2,202 per person {Multiple dates available, rates may vary}

Service from London St Pancras to Chalon-Sur-Saone and return from Arles, both via Paris (also available in reverse - return from Chalon-sur-Saone via Dijon & Paris)

CRUISE FROM : CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE TO ARLES

Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!

COUNTRIES : FRANCE

RIVERS : RHONE, SAONE

Ship : AmaCello

Travel Date : 24th March 2022 {Multiple dates available, rates may vary}

Included Features : 

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS =

• 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
• Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
• 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
• Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and 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
• Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge

A WORLD OF EXPLORATION =

• Immersive tours in every destination
• Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
• Bike tours and hikes
• Special Interest Tours
• Knowledgeable guides
• Personal headset for easy exploration

Voyage Itinerary :

Day 1, CHALON­SUR SAÔNE.

Board your ship in preparation for your 7­night Essence of Provence & Burgundy cruise. (B,D)

Day 2, CHALON­SUR SAÔNE ­ TOURNUS.

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon­Sur­Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. Alternatively, choose an excursion in Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic­tiled roof of the Hôtel­Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Or, visit the storybook Château de Couches, a medieval fortress enveloped in idyllic hills and greenery that once served the Dukes of Burgundy. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or pedal from Chalon­Sur­ Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour. Alternatively, once in Tournus, sample the region’s famous white Mâconnais wines. (B,L,D)

Day 3, TOURNUS ­ MACON.

Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Macon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall, or pedal through the charming town. In the afternoon, you have the choice of returning to the ship and enjoying a scenic cruise to Mâcon, joining a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon, or enjoy a tasting of Chalonnaise wines. (B,L,D)

Day 4, MACON ­ VILLEFRANCHE­SUR­SAONE ­ LYON.

Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey, and the nearby castle Berze­le­Chatel, a well­preserved fortress perched on a rocky hill offering stunning views below. Alternately, you can enjoy a guided bike tour to Berze­le­Chatel. Should architecture or religion be one of your main interests, perhaps choose the excursion to the Royal Monastery of Brou, built in the 16th century and boasting a glorious white façade as well as a beautifully tiled roof. Return to the ship and head to the Sun Deck to enjoy a light lunch and the passing landscapes on the way to Villefranche­sur­Saône, later choosing between scenic cruising or a tasting of Beaujolais wines. During the evening, enjoy a special Illuminations cruise – a highlight of your river cruise – as you enter the city of Lyon. (B,L,D)

Day 5, LYON ­ VIENNE.

Discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th­century basilica Notre­Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. If you’re a self­described foodie, our Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Later in the day, sail to Vienne, which boasts a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. There you can ride the charming mini train around the city. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. (B,L,D)

Day 6, VIENNE ­ VALENCE.

Take your coffee on your balcony or the Sun Deck as you cruise to Valence, a designated “City of Art and History,” where you can see such sites as its 11th­century Cathedral of St. Apollinaris or perhaps its House of Heads (named for the carved heads of its façade and courtyard) on your city tour. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle­friendly city. If you prefer a more relaxing excursion, taste the Northern Rhône’s red Cornas wines. (B,L,D)

Day 7, AVIGNON ­ ARLES.

Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well­preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternately, you can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. Or, you can enjoy a bike tour along the Rhône from Avignon to the provençal town of Tarascon. Later in the day, cruise to Arles, considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Let your experienced guide lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater; or take a guided bike tour to the Roman ruins. If you wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. Or take some time to focus on wellness with a guided bike tour through town. (B,L,D)

Day 8, ARLES.

Bid farewell to Arles and prepare for your return flight home. (B)

Best of Holland & Belgium 

AmaWaterways Selling Price from £2,586 per person 

Direct Service London St Pancras to Amsterdam and return from Amsterdam via Brussels

Immerse yourself in a feast for the senses as you travel through the Netherlands and Belgium. Taste rich Belgian chocolates and listen to the distinctive clanks and charms of mechanical instruments at Utrecht’s Museum Speelklok. Admire the beautiful architecture and artistry of castles that include Utrecht’s de Haar, Brussels’ Beersel and Ghent’s Castle of the Counts of Flanders. Inhale the aroma of freshly pressed Belgian waffles and Dutch street fries. And feel the gentle breeze dance along your cheeks as you cruise through the Amsterdam canals. As a diverse array of knowledgeable and gracious local guides share each destination’s unique history with you, you’ll return from this cruise having experienced the best of Holland and Belgium!

COUNTRIES: BELGIUM, NETHERLANDS

RIVERS: DUTCH AND BELGIAN WATERWAYS

CRUISE FROM : AMSTERDAM TO AMSTERDAM

Ship : AmaStella

Travel Date : 25th June 2022 {Multiple dates available, rates may vary}

Included Features :

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS =

• 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
• Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
• Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
• Bottled water replenished daily
• 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.

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES =

• Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
• Internet and Wi-Fi access
• Sun deck pool with swim-up bar 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
• Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and 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

A WORLD OF EXPLORATION =

• Immersive tours in every destination
• Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
• Bike tours and hikes
• Special Interest Tours
• Knowledgeable guides
• Personal headset for easy exploration

Voyage Itinerary :

Day 1, AMSTERDAM.

Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Best of Holland & Belgium cruise.

Day 2, AMSTERDAM ­ UTRECHT.

There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic cruise out of Amsterdam to Utrecht, the religious center of the Netherlands since the 8th century and a far­reaching city boasting a medieval old town, canals and a beautiful Gothic cathedral, some of which you may see on your walking tour, which includes a visit to the whimsical collection of automatically playing musical instruments at Museum Speelklok. Alternatively, marvel at the largest castle in Holland, De Haar. Straight out of your fairytale dreams, this castle inspires awe with its turrets, moats and suspension bridges as well as its luxurious interior. (B,L,D)

Day 3, VEERE.

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise through the delta before arriving in Veere, the Netherlands’ medieval harbor town. This former fishing village turned yachting town is known for its town square, where some houses boast gorgeous gardens – although the highlight is the town hall, with its 48­bell carillon! Enjoy learning more about it on your walking tour, or journey instead to the Flood Museum, where you’ll learn about the devastating floods of 1953, followed by a visit to a landmark recognizing the Roosevelt family’s relationship with the Dutch royal family. For those who prefer an active adventure, pedal from Veere, with its cobblestone streets and charming harbor, to the historic town of Middelberg and back (B,L,D)

Day 4, GHENT.

There are several choices of excursions in Ghent, depending on your interests. Stroll through the Capital of East Flanders, learning about its unique history on your walking tour, or pedal through the spellbinding town on a guided bike tour. Alternatively, visit Bruges, one of the best preserved medieval cities in *Europe, on a full­day excursion that includes the renowned Church of Our Lady, home to the beautiful Carrara marble Madonna and Child sculpture by Michelangelo. If you prefer a shorter excursion in Bruges, visit the town later in the day or spend your afternoon at Ghent’s moated Castle of the Counts, which boasts an eye­catching design as well as a ghoulishly interesting collection of medieval torture devices. (B,L,D)

Day 5, BRUSSELS.

Explore Belgium’s captivating capital on your guided walking tour or pedal through Brussels on a guided bike ride. If you are a history enthusiast, spend your day traveling back in time to sites related to World War II’s historic Battle of the Bulge, which was the last major German offensive on the Western Front and toast fallen soldiers with a tasting of Trappist beer brewed by monks. For those not joining this full­day tour, choose from afternoon excursions that include a visit to Beersel Castle, one of the oldest and authentic moated castles in Flanders, or delight your palate with a Belgian chocolate tasting. (B,L,D)

Day 6, ANTWERP.

Explore Belgium’s trendy “City of Diamonds” on a walking tour where you’ll see Antwerp’s Steen Castle, Grote Market and Brabo Fountain, along with the UNESCO­designated Cathedral of Our Lady. Active travelers may prefer instead to bike through Antwerp. Later in the day, beer enthusiasts will appreciate a tasting of the local brew while foodies may prefer our excursion to sample some of Belgium’s culinary delights such as its fresh and fluffy waffles. An afternoon bike tour is also available for those who prefer to get their heart beating later in the day, and it includes an opportunity to visit the Red Star Line Museum, highlighting the historic shipping line responsible for transporting three million immigrants to America. (B,L,D)

Day 7, DORDRECHT ­ KINDERDIJK.

Established in 1220, Holland’s oldest city was virtually destroyed by a devastating flood in the 15th century that essentially created the city’s wetlands. Learn more about Dordrecht’s fascinating history on your walking tour, or visit Rotterdam, the “Gateway to Europe,” as well as Delfshaven, where, on August 1, 1620, the Pilgrim fathers departed on their epic journey aboard the Speedwell. Stopping in Southampton, many then boarded the Mayflower and concluded their journey at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. If you prefer to venture off the beaten path, head to the smaller town of Gorinchem with its picturesque Old Town or go on an architectural bike tour through Rotterdam. In the afternoon, venture to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village renowned for having the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, all dating from the 18th century. You may also pedal past the windmills from the seat of a bike. (B,L,D)

Day 8, AMSTERDAM.

Disembark your ship and bid farewell to Amsterdam as you prepare for your return flight home. (B)

Prices listed are per person in Great British Pound, based on twin occupancy, rates for single occupancy may differ, Rates offered are including all discounts unless otherwise stated. All bookings are subject to availability. Other travel periods may be available. Some block out dates may apply. Rates may alter depending upon the dates requested and surcharges if applicable. Final booking confirmation only provided once payment has been processed. Contact our travel team for more details. Our Holiday Centre reserves the right to withdraw this promotion without notice at any time. Flights are not included. Pricing correct as at 10 November 2021.