AmaWaterways has commenced sailing its newest French itinerary, “Flavors of Burgundy,” taking guests on a journey along the Saône River, visiting a collection of France’s vineyards. The river cruise line has also released the list of wine hosts joining the 70-plus hosted departures that are part of its 2025 series of “Celebration of Wine River Cruises.”
“Celebration of Wine River Cruises” are offered on 21 different itineraries, highlighting wine regions such as Burgundy in France or the Douro Valley in Portugal, as well as lesser-known destinations including the Wachau Valley in Austria and along the Moselle River in Germany.
In 2025, AmaWaterways offers more than 70 “Celebration of Wine River Cruises.” A sample of seven-night itineraries and wine hosts include:
- “Flavors of Burgundy” – Travelers will explore France’s wine region, Burgundy. They will indulge in a variety of wine tastings in destinations including Tournus, Mâcon and Lyon. The itinerary offers bike tours and afternoon cruises. Travelers can also extend their stay with a pre-cruise land package of three nights in Paris and a post-cruise land package with three nights in Geneva. Guests can choose from eight departures in March, April, July, October and November 2025, including the March 27 cruise with wine host Holly Howell, certified wine specialist and sommelier.
- “Enchanting Rhine” – On this itinerary between Basel and Amsterdam, guests cruise on the Rhine and marvel at its UNESCO World Heritage Site with 40 castles. They can also explore Amsterdam and Strasbourg, besides extending their stay with a pre-cruise land package of two nights in Zurich, and two nights in Lake Lucerne, Switzerland. Guests can choose from eight departures in March, April, October and November 2025, including the March 20 cruise with wine host Kathy Joseph, owner and winemaker at Fiddlehead Cellars, Lompoc, CA.
- “Romantic Danube” – It is well suited for history buffs longing to explore Old-World Europe. They can also extend their stay with a two-night pre-cruise land package in Munich, or a three-night pre-cruise land package in Prague. Guests can choose from three departures in March and July 2025, including the July 14 cruise with wine host Jim Cargill, winemaker at House Family Vineyards, Saratoga, CA.
“Celebration of Wine River Cruises” are hosted by a wine expert from North America or Europe, and include culinary experiences and wine-tasting events. The line-up of wine hosts represents a selection of experts including vineyard owners, winemakers, certified sommeliers and wine educators. While the line’s primary focus remains on showcasing the local wines of the regions visited, North American wine hosts bring their own wines onboard for tastings.
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