Christmas Markets Along The Rhine
Beccy Miller
Embracing the Enchanting Christmas Spirit: A River Cruise to Remember!
Ah, December is the most magical time of the year! Our Shell and her partner decided to dive headfirst into the Christmas spirit and embark on an unforgettable river cruise with the renowned AmaWaterways recently. The journey took them on a delightful southbound adventure along the enchanting River Rhine, from the captivating city of Amsterdam to the picturesque destination of Basel. Here is what she had to say...
Easy Embarkation
"From the moment we stepped on board, we were greeted by a festive wonderland – garlands, lights, and baubles adorned every corner, setting the perfect ambience for our yuletide adventure. The check-in process was a breeze, a mere exchange of names, and we were whisked away to our cosy cabin.
A Dreamy Cabin Haven: Comfort and Luxury Await
Our home for the journey was a BB cabin on the Cello Deck, and we were in for a treat! Equipped with a twin balcony, we could indulge in the best of both worlds. The en-suite was luxurious, featuring a spacious walk-in shower with impeccable water pressure. Trust me when I say that shower became the highlight of our day, and my partner even contemplated installing a replica at home – he never wanted the pampering to end! As for the sleeping quarters, the bed was a dream come true, offering a variety of pillows to ensure our utmost comfort. The blackout curtains added an extra serenity, guaranteeing we slept like contented little elves every night. And after a full day of exploring the wonders of each port, we would cosy up in our cabin with a marvellous selection of Christmas films to choose from. Love Actually and The Holiday became our movie night companions – pure bliss!
Now, let's talk about the balconies. At first glance, you might think they're a bit small but fear not, AmaWaterways has a fantastic surprise. The twin balcony design gifted us a French balcony and an outside balcony. During the chillier December days, we snuggled up by the French balcony, sipping tea (or a glass of wine, shh!) and admiring the picturesque landscapes drifting by.
A Haven of Delights: The Ship's Inviting Spaces
Beyond our cosy cabin, the ship offered a plethora of inviting spaces. The lounge became our favourite spot for leisurely morning and afternoon sails. With soft background music or live piano melodies, free-flowing coffee, cookies, and sweet treats, it was the ultimate sanctuary of tranquillity. As the evening arrived, the lounge transformed into a bustling hub of activity, hosting the lively Sip & Sail event. Cocktails, wines, and beers flowed freely for an hour before dinner, accompanied by a team of delightful bar staff, ensuring every glass was brimming with festive cheer.
A Gourmet Voyage: Culinary Delights to Savour
Then there is the food, my favourite aspect of cruising. Breakfast was a delectable à la carte affair, serving up delightful Eggs Benedict, waffles, and pancakes alongside a sumptuous buffet with all our morning favourites. Lunchtime spoiled us with two options – the main dining room's à la carte menu and the delightful Bistro menu, offering heavenly burgers and pizzas. And let's not forget the complimentary wines, beers, and soft drinks flowing freely during lunch – a touch of luxury to savour!
Dinner was an absolute delight, crafted into a four-course masterpiece by the talented onboard chef. Each course was a journey of flavours skillfully linked to the regions we sailed through, a delightful exploration of the local cuisine. And for those seeking a classic favourite, the "Always Available" section offered delectable chicken, steak, or salmon paired with a selection of sides or a fresh Caesar salad. The perfectly cooked chicken enchanted my partner so much he couldn't resist ordering more than once! The Chef's Table, the ship's speciality restaurant, graced us with a seven-course culinary extravaganza. Each course carried a unique name, from the tantalizing "Chef's Welcome" to the intriguing "Tease the Senses." Spoiler alert – ensure you don't miss this exceptional dining experience; you'll be forever grateful.
Relaxing in Winter Wonderland
Even though the weather provided the perfect backdrop for a Christmas markets cruise, the 'Sun Deck' remained a top spot as we sailed along the Rhine Gorge. Wrapped in warm layers, armed with blankets from our cabin and steaming coffee, we ventured up top to witness the stunning castles dotting the landscape and relished a 360° view of the breathtaking scenery. And guess what? The complimentary Wi-Fi allowed us to share the magic with loved ones back home.
Cherishing the Christmas Bliss
Our river cruise with AmaWaterways was nothing short of enchanting. From the festive ambience and cosy cabins to the exquisite dining and breathtaking views, it was a Christmas adventure we'd cherish forever. So, if you're seeking a holiday filled with cheer and wonder, follow the winding path of the River Rhine with AmaWaterways – it's a journey you won't want to miss!
