As many of you may know, I’m hosting a private group on an incredible river cruise in Southern France this April. We’re sailing on the Rhône River from Avignon to Lyon. Now, I’m thrilled to announce that we will soon be opening up a few more spots in the group!
This is going to be a unique trip with exclusive experiences not open to others on the cruise. I will be leading some fun tastings of local wines from Provence, the Rhône Valley and Beaujolais! We will indulge in an incredible gourmet wine pairing dinner together – and I have a few more surprises for us as well.
Reservations will be opening on February 7th and will remain open until March 7th. We are happy to take your name for a waiting list until then. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or contact our travel advisor Carol Wolniakowski at carol@cuveewinetravel.com or 630-418-6121.
AmaWaterways’ AmaKristina is Luxury at its Finest
AmaWaterways has an impeccable reputation for service and luxury. In fact, family owned and operated AmaWaterways received three 2019 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards, including the top honor as the “Best River Cruise Line” in December 2019 as well as the “Best River Cruise Line for Active Cruisers” for the second consecutive year.
Only 156 passengers in 76 staterooms are on the AmaKristina, launched in 2017 and entered into service in 2018. Forget the 3000+ cruise ship guest list! This river cruise is never overcrowded and will be intimate and luxurious from the first time you step on the ship to your final disembarkation. With its chic furniture, designer fabrics and subtle lighting, what’s not to love about staying in a boutique hotel on the Rhône River?
Enriching and immersive shore excursions throughout the week are included and we have plenty of options from which to choose. Complimentary bicycles and helmets are available in the event that an early morning or late afternoon bike ride is in order, too. In fact, AmaWaterways was the first cruise company to introduce active hiking and biking excursions to the rivers.
The AmaKristina – Photo Credit: www.amawaterways.com
The majority of AmaKristina’s 76 beautiful suites and rooms in eight different categories range from 160 – 350 square feet and most include both a French balcony and an outside balcony. (Just think… you can enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine or a cocktail before dinner while admiring the unforgettable scenery from your balcony.) Marble bathrooms have multi-jet showerheads, luxurious bath and body products, cozy robes and hair dryers (thank goodness!).
Award-winning fine and casual dining are offered at the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table and small bites between meals are available in the Main Lounge. Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks are served at all meals which include cuisine prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
AmaWaterways has pioneered a comprehensive wellness program onboard its fleet. I can’t wait to dip my toes in the heated sun-deck pool with swim-up bar, workout a bit in the fitness room, walk the sun-deck track, cycle in one of the many charming towns from the onboard fleet of bicycles or treat myself to a soothing massage (travel is hard, right?!) before I indulge in some of the ship’s entertainment options.
Our “Colors of Provence” Rhône River Itinerary
Let’s meet in Avignon on Wednesday April 6 for an aperitif and a few hors d’oeuvres the night before the cruise begins. The next day, we’ll board the AmaKristina in plenty of time for our “Welcome Aboard” clinks with delicious wine in the glass.
Each day will offer a bevy of optional excursions from which to choose. From guided bike tours and walking tours to historic sites in charming towns to an evening illuminations cruise to a wine tasting in Chateauneuf-du-Pape to a truffle farm visit, this week promises to be one of the best. There’s more! Art lovers will relish the works of Van Gogh and wine lovers will crave the wine and chocolate tasting or tastings in the Hermitage and Beaujolais regions. Enjoy a tour of “Les Halles” in Lyon, enjoy a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or visit Roman ruins. The choices are yours!
Ahhh, at the end of each day, it will be a joy to regroup with you and share our experiences. Meet me on the sun deck!
Let’s do this! Enjoy the following presentation about our cruise by clicking here. Then, contact Carol at Cuvee Wine Travel (carol@cuveewinetravel.com) or 630-418-6121 to book your Rhône River cruise experience. I’ll see you in France!
The Rhône River at Avignon – Photo Credit: www.amawaterways.com
For more Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” click here.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
