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December 12th - 25th, 2023
Amsterdam (Netherlands), Cologne (Germany), Rudesheim (Germany), Ludwigshafen (Germany), Strasbourg (France), Breisach (Germany) and Basel (Switzerland), 

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Image by Azhar J

December 12th, 2023

Amsterdam

Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your hotel.

Image by Piotr Chrobot

December 13th, 2023

Amsterdam

Visit Zaanse Schans, where you can observe life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses, and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th century village. (B)

Non-Stop to Amsterdam

December 14th, 2023

 

Amsterdam

Check out of your hotel and, before transferring to your ship, enjoy a panoramic tour of Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam, boasting history, art, architecture, bridges, canals, cobblestone streets, world-class museums, bicycles and narrow alleys on a city tour. Afterwards, enjoy leisure time in the Museumplein, perhaps visiting one of the prestigious museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, home to Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Kitchen Maid.” (B,D)

Amsterdam Light Festival

December 15th, 2023

Amsterdam

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 Amsterdam. (B,L,D)

Image by Nikolay Kovalenko

December 16th, 2023

Cologne

 

Enjoy cruising to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne’s traditional Kölsch beer and reibekuchen mit apfelmus—potato pancakes served with applesauce. (B,L,D)

Image by Daniel Gimbel

December 17th, 2023

Rhine George, Rüdesheim

Cruise through the castle-laden Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have three choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting or go on a hike through the vineyards. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. You’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rüdesheim Christmas Market. (B,L,D)

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December 18th, 2023

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. Alternatively, you can explore one of Germany’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). (B,L,D)

Image by chan lee

December 19th, 2023

Strasbourg, Gengenbach

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. During the afternoon, visit Gengenbach Christmas Market where, every year, the locals count down to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)

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December 20th, 2023

Breisach

 

Visit the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, beautifully dressed in her holiday finery with twinkling decorations and a lively Christmas Market. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture, as well as famous sights such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, as well as its enchanting Christmas Market. Those wishing a more active excursion will want to cycle through the scenic countryside. (B,L,D)

Image by Chris Boese

December 21st, 2023

Basel, Lucerne

 

After disembarking your ship, you’ll go on a highlights tour of Basel before being transferred to Lucerne. Once in Lucerne, get acquainted with the city on a walking tour along with a visit to the Christmas Market before checking into your hotel. (B)

Image by Arsim Ala

December 22nd, 2023

Lucerne

The iconic Lion Monument, which you’ll visit, was sculpted in memory of the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution in 1792. It has captured the hearts and minds of visitors for centuries. You’ll also visit the spectacular medieval walls and towers, dating back to the 13th century. Afterwards, soak up the festive atmosphere of this medieval gem while wandering through its Christmas Market, located at the Franziskanerplatz, and enjoy a mug of holiday cheer, glühwein. (B)

Image by Henrique Ferreira

December 23rd, 2023

Lucerne, Vitznau, Zurich

Check out of your hotel, and then take a cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne. While cruising, enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery, marked by steep Alpine peaks, sloped forests and fertile meadows and valleys beyond. Once in Vitznau, you will board a motorcoach for a scenic drive through the countryside to Zurich. (B)

Image by Henrique Ferreira

December 24th, 2023

Zurich

 

Join a walking tour of Zurich and experience the magic of the city dressed in her holiday best. You’ll visit Zurich’s Christmas Markets, including the largest indoor Christmas Market in Europe located in Zurich’s Main Train Station. An absolute highlight is a 50-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated with thousands of sparkling Swarovski crystals. (B)

Image by Rhiannon Elliott

December 25th, 2023

Zurich

 

After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)

Booking and Sale Terms & Conditions / Cancellation Policy

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  THESE ARE THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS GOVERNING THE BOOKING AND SALE OF YOUR CRUISE AND RELATED TRAVEL FROM AMAWATERWAYS, LLC AS SALES AND MARKETING AGENT FOR THE CARRIERS (“TERMS”). A SEPARATE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT BETWEEN THE PASSENGER AND THE CARRIER GOVERNS THE CRUISE AND TRAVEL ITSELF.  THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT IS AVIALABLE AT www.AmaWaterways.com. PLEASE CAREFULLY READ THESE TERMS AND THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT WHICH ARE BINDING TO YOU AND CONTAIN SIGNIFICANT FEES FOR CANCELLATION AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY, INCLUDING LIMITATIONS ON DAMAGES FOR BAGGAGE AND OTHER PROPERTY, PERSONAL INJURY, ILLNESS OR DEATH; TIME LIMITS FOR CLAIMS AND SUITS, SWISS CHOICE OF LAW AND SWISS FORUM SELECTION REQUIREMENTS, AND CLASS ACTION WAIVER.

Parties: In these terms and conditions, “you” or “passenger” or “participant” refers to the person booking, purchasing or traveling on the cruise, and to individuals traveling as part of that person’s reservation. “We” or “us” refers to AmaWaterways, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company (“AWL”), which acts solely as a sales and marketing agent for the ship’s owner, operator and/or charterer (“Carrier”) and providers of other forms of transportation, lodging, tours or travel services (“Suppliers”). AMA offers the travel and enters into these terms and conditions with you pursuant to arrangements made with AWL. The term “Carrier” means the owner, operator and/or charterer of the vessel as set forth under “Carrier Information” below.

LIABILITY DISCLAIMER: We arrange with others for the services described in these Terms, your confirmation and/or our brochures. Carriers and Suppliers are independent third parties which are separate entities and are deemed not to be our principals, agents, employees or partners. WE ACT SOLEY AS A SALES AND MARKETING AGENT FOR THE CARRIERS AND SUPPLIERS AND DO NOT OWN OR OPERATE ANY SHIP OR OTHER MODE OF TRANSPORTATION, HOTEL OR ACCOMMODATION. ACCORDINGLY, WE DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY AND LIABILITY FOR, AND PARTICIPANT WAIVES, RELEASES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT THERE SHALL NOT BE ANY CLAIM OR RECOURSE AGAINST US FOR OR AS A CONSEQUENCE OF: BREACH OF DUTY, BREACH OF CONTRACT, NEGLIGENT OR WILLFUL OR INTENTIONAL ACT, FAILURE TO ACT OR OMISSION BY ANY CARRIER OR SUPPLIER. Carrier, Supplier and participant obligations and liabilities are subject in each case to terms and conditions of the Passenger Ticket Contract and each Supplier’s contract, and any and all laws, regulations and international conventions that apply under those contracts, including, but not limited to choice of law, jurisdiction for disputes, limitations of liability, and time limitations for claims and suits. PARTICIPANT AGREES THAT WE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGE, LOSS (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY, DEATH, AND LOSS OF OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY) OR EXPENSE OCCASIONED BY ANY ACT OR OMISSION OF ANY CARRIER OR SUPPLIER, OR ANY PROVIDER OF A TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN, OR INSURER, OR OF ANY OTHER PERSON. If the services of a Carrier or Supplier cannot be delivered or there are changes in any planned service for any reason beyond our control, we will make an effort to arrange similar services. Any resulting additional expenses will be participant’s responsibility. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL WE BE LIABLE FOR CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING FROM OR RELATING TO THESE TERMS, THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT, THE CRUISE OR ANY RELATED TRAVEL OR ACTIVITIES, AND OUR LIABILITY, IF ANY, SHALL IN NO EVENT EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID TO US FOR THE TRAVEL.

PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT: ALL SHIP TRANSPORT IS PROVIDED ACCORDING TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT, WHICH IS SENT AT THE TIME OF BOOKING, IS INCLUDED IN THE DIGITAL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS SENT PRIOR TO THE CRUISE AND IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AT WWW.AMAWATERWAYS.COM. THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT ESTABLISHES LIMITS OF LIABILITY, LIMITS ON CLAIMS, AND TIME LIMITS FOR MAKING CLAIMS, AS WELL AS OTHER RESTRICTIONS, LIMITS AND DISCLAIMERS OF CARRIER’S LIABILITY FOR YOUR DEATH, ILLNESS, INJURY, OR DAMAGE CLAIMS RELATING TO BAGGAGE OR PERSONAL PROPERTY. IT IS GOVERNED BY SWISS LAW AND INCORPORATES PROVISIONS AND LIMITATIONS UNDER THE ATHENS CONVENTION RELATING TO THE CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE BY SEA, 1974, AND THE PROTOCOL TO THE CONVENTION RELATING TO THE CARRIAGE OF PASSENGERS AND THEIR LUGGAGE BY SEA, 1976, THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR MARITIME CLAIMS, 1976, AND THE STRASBOURG CONVENTION ON THE LIMITATION OF LIABILITY OF OWNERS OF INLAND NAVIGATION VESSELS, 1988. VENUE FOR LITIGATION OF ANY DISPUTES UNDER THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT IS EXCLUSIVELY IN THE COURTS OF BASEL, SWITZERLAND.

CLASS ACTION WAIVER:  THESE TERMS AND THE PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT PROVIDE FOR THE EXCLUSIVE RESOLUTION OF DISPUTES THROUGH INDIVIDUAL LEGAL ACTION ON YOUR OWN BEHALF INSTEAD OF THROUGH ANY CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION. EVEN IF THE APPLICABLE LAW PROVIDES OTHERWISE, YOU AGREE THAT ANY LAWSUIT AGAINST US OR THE CARRIER WHATSOEVER SHALL BE LITIGATED BY YOU INDIVIDUALLY AND NOT AS A MEMBER OF ANY CLASS OR AS PART OF A CLASS OR REPRESENTATIVE ACTION, AND YOU EXPRESSLY AGREE TO WAIVE ANY LAW ENTITLING YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION.

Carrier Information: For vessels flying the Swiss flag, the Carrier is AmaWaterways GmbH, an entity organized under the laws of Switzerland. For vessels in Portugal, the Carrier is DouroAzul, Sociedade Maritimo Turistica S.A, an entity organized under the laws of Portugal. For the vessel in Egypt, the Carrier is a partnership between AmaWaterways and Wings Tours & Nile Cruises, an entity organized under the laws of Egypt. For the vessel in Vietnam, the Carrier is Indochina Waterways, an entity organized under the laws of Vietnam. For the vessel in Namibia, the Carrier is Zambezi Queen Holidays PTY) Ltd, an entity organized under the laws of Namibia. For a complete and up-to-date listing of the registry and Carrier for each vessel, visit www.AmaWaterways.com/CarrierInformation.

Deposit and Final Payment: To confirm a river cruise or river cruise and land reservation, we require a deposit of $400 per person for Europe and Asia, $4,800 per person for Seven River Journey Through Europe itineraries, $1,200 per person for Egypt and $2,400 per person for Africa itineraries on or before the deposit due date indicated on the confirmation. For transoceanic airline fares reserved through AmaWaterways, a non-refundable deposit of $350 per person for economy class or $600 per person for business/first-class tickets is required to issue ticket(s) within 24 hours for the flight schedule offered and accepted. Upon receipt of deposit, air will be ticketed, at which time deposits will be nonrefundable. Any air schedules and ticketing relating to AmaWaterways air promotions will be provided 75 - 90 days before the travel start date or once full payment is received for the river cruise and promotional air price (if any). Any itineraries that include intra-air flights require a non-refundable deposit (also applies to combination cruises) and will be advised at time of booking. Bangkok land package requires a nonrefundable deposit of $200 per person. The Rwanda extension requires an additional non-refundable deposit of $1,500 per person for the Mountain Gorilla permit and $100 per person for the Golden Monkey permit. Hotel Extra Nights require a non-refundable deposit of $50 per cabin at the time of confirmation of the hotel availability. The Ancestry Experience package requires a nonrefundable deposit of $750.00 per person. The Concierge Golf Program requires an additional non-refundable deposit of $700 per person. Other custom arrangements may also require non-refundable deposits and will be advised at the time of booking. Final payment is due no later than 90 days before the travel start date.

 

Cancellation Charges: In the unfortunate event a participant must cancel travel, notice must be made to AmaWaterways during standard business hours or via email to Res@amawaterways.com, which must include writing stating clearly and correctly each guest’s name, ship name, start and end date of the cruise and a brief statement of the reason for cancellation. Other forms of notice are not sufficient. Cancellations received within 24 hours of vacation start date will be deemed as trip interruption, cannot be cancelled and are 100% non-refundable. The effective date of the cancellation is the date AmaWaterways receives cancellation notice. A change in sailing date, name changes, the substitution of a participant or a reduction in the number of guests in a stateroom are treated as a cancellation in that all applicable cancellation charges apply. A reduction in occupancy is subject to a single supplement charge. Cancellation charges for bookings within charter and part-charter agreements are as per the charter contract. All other cancellation charges are per-person, based on the cancellation date, as seen in the chart below.

You acknowledge that your cancellation will cause us and the Carrier difficulty in selling a replacement cruise or cruise & land reservation and thus the cancellation fees described below apply regardless of whether your cruise or cruise & land reservation is resold. You agree that any losses sustained by us and/or the Carrier in the event of cancellation would be very difficult or impossible to quantify, and the cancellation fees are fair and reasonable as liquidated damages.

DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE

CRUISES & LAND

CANCELLATION CHARGE

AIRFARE CANCELLATION CHARGE (ECONOMY CONTRACT FARES)

AIRFARE CANCELLATION CHARGE (BUSINESS/FIRST CLASS CONTRACT FARES)

OTHER CHARGES

(EXCEPT INSURANCE)

More than 121 days prior to departure

$200 (Europe & Asia)

120-90 days prior to departure

$400 (Europe & Asia)

89-60 days prior to departure

35% of cruise and land price

$350 penalty*

$600 penalty*

35% of all charges

59-30 days prior to departure

50% of cruise and land price

$350 penalty*

$600 penalty*

50% of all charges

29-7 days prior to departure

80% of cruise and land price

$350 penalty*

$600 penalty*

80% of all charges

6 days prior to departure

100% of cruise and land price

$350 penalty*

$600 penalty*

100% of all charges

Inside of 24 hours

100% of cruise and land price

100% penalty

100% penalty

100% of all charges

Additional cancellation penalties for special programs may be assessed in addition to the above; please see “Deposit and Final Payment” for more information.

*Airline cancellation charges imposed upon receipt of full payment of either airfare and/or river cruise relating to AmaWaterways air promotions, and if airline tickets have been issued. Certain international airline tickets, including published air tickets, may be 100% non-refundable and details will be advised at the time of booking. All intra-Europe, intra-Asia, intra-Africa and intra-Egypt flights, as well as Amman-Cairo and Cairo-Tel Aviv flights are non-refundable at the time of purchase.

Except as otherwise provided in your Passenger Ticket Contract, after travel begins, there is no refund for unused services, or unused portions of cruise, cruise/tour or airfare.

Pricing: All prices are in US dollars. In the event that a cruise fare listed, quoted or advertised through any website, printed collateral, reservations person, travel advisor or any other source is booked, but is incorrect due to an electronic error, typographical error, human error or any other error causing the fare to be listed, quoted or advertised for an amount not intended by AmaWaterways, AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct the erroneous fare by requesting the passenger to pay the correct fare intended, or by canceling the cruise. Airfares, air taxes and air surcharges quoted on your invoice or by a reservation agent are only guaranteed once airfare deposit or full payment is received by AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways reserves the right to increase prices without notice.

Prices Do Not Include: Published prices do not include airfare, vessel fuel surcharges, passport and visa fees, baggage fees, port charges and fees, travel protection, vaccinations, laundry, additional food and beverages, optional excursions, gratuities or other items or services of a personal nature.

Passport and Visas: A valid passport is required for each participant. For travel to Europe, at time of publication US Passport holders do not require a visa to travel. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country, unless stated otherwise.

NAME OF THE PROGRAM

VISA REQUIREMENT*

PASSPORT VALIDATION *

PASSPORT EMPTY PAGE REQUIRED*

Riches of The Mekong

Program begins in Hanoi

Multi entry visa for Vietnam,

Single entry visa for Cambodia

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country.

4 empty visa labeled pages

Riches of The Mekong

Program begins in Siem Reap

Single entry visa for Vietnam

Single entry visa for Cambodia

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

4 empty visa labeled pages

Charms of The Mekong

Program ends in Hanoi

Multi entry visa for Vietnam,

Single entry visa for Cambodia

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

4 empty visa labeled pages

Charms of The Mekong

Program ends in Siem Reap

Single entry visa for Vietnam

Single entry visa for Cambodia

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

4 empty visa labeled pages

Bangkok extension

 

Visa exempt

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

Secrets of Egypt & the Nile

Single entry visa for Egypt (apply online several weeks prior to arrival date)

 

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 empty visa labeled pages

Jordan extension

 

Single entry visa for Jordan obtained

upon arrival by AmaWaterways

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

Dubai extension

 

Visa exempt

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

Israel extension

 

Visa exempt

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

Turkey extension

 

Single entry visa for Turkey

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

Discover Africa

Discover Africa with Johannesburg

Visa required for Zimbabwe and

obtained at border

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

6 empty visa labeled pages

Rivers and Rails

Rivers and Rails plus
Greater Kruger National Park

Visa required for Zimbabwe and

obtained at border

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

6 empty visa labeled pages

Stars of South Africa

Visa required for Zimbabwe and

obtained at border

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

6 empty visa labeled pages

Wildlife and the Falls

Visa required for Zimbabwe and

obtained at border

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

6 empty visa labeled pages

Golden Trails of Africa

Golden Trails of Africa with
Cape Town

Visa required for Zimbabwe and obtained at border. Visa required for Tanzania and must be obtained prior to arrival in Africa

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

8 empty visa labeled pages

Rwanda extension

Visa required

at least six (6) months after the scheduled return date to your home country

2 additional empty visa labeled pages

*Requirements as of time of publication

Non-US citizens must consult the appropriate consulates regarding visa and other document requirements. Obtaining required visas and any other required travel documentation and assuring these are complete and correct in all ways, is the sole responsibility of each participant. We are not in a position to obtain or verify the accuracy or completeness of any participant’s visa or other required documentation and shall not be responsible or liable for delay or missed portion of any part of the itinerary or other problems resulting from the participant lacking the appropriate travel documentation.

Travel Documents: Only after receipt of full payment, final Digital Travel Documents (including airline confirmation information, if applicable) will be sent via email, approximately 3-4 weeks prior to departure. (Delay in final payment will delay delivery of Digital Travel Documents.) Requests for expedited Digital Travel Documents may be possible for an additional charge.

 

FLIGHTS & AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Flight Schedules & Airfares: AmaWaterways offers special airfares based on the flight and seat availability of contracted carriers. We are able to accept a traveler’s choice of preferred air carrier, flight schedule, and some deviations so long as the requests are made at the time of booking the airline reservation. To hold/confirm an airline reservation, the airlines require your full legal name as it appears on your passport. For contract airline fares, a non-refundable deposit of $350 per person for economy class or $600 per person for business/first-class tickets is required to issue ticket(s) within 24 hours for the flight schedule. Any quoted price is not guaranteed, as well as when changes are requested by the guest, such as name or date changes, or if an airline-imposed schedule change is not accepted prior to ticketing. Once your airline tickets have been issued, any changes will be subject to penalty, and any applicable fare differential, if not cancelled within 24 hours of ticketing. Any itineraries that include intra-air flights require a non-refundable deposit (also applies to combination cruises). Should the name on your airline reservation not match your passport exactly, your airline reservation will have to be cancelled, full penalties will be assessed, and your reservation will have to be recreated subject to market pricing at the time of the new reservation. Any air schedules provided by AmaWaterways are subject to change without notice as imposed by the carrier due to reasons beyond our control. Airfares in conjunction with promotional offers are subject to specific terms as outlined with offer details.

Air tickets are Economy class. Upgrading to Premium Economy, Business or First Class is possible for an additional charge pursuant to the terms and conditions of the relevant airline(s). AmaWaterways guarantees upgrades for long-haul flights, but not U.S. Domestic flights, intra-Europe, intra-Asia, intra-Egypt and intra-Africa flights. Upgrades may not be possible when an air carrier changes the schedule, aircraft type, experiences a strike, overbooking or flight interruption of any kind. Air carriers reserve the right to do all the above. In such cases, all claims for airfare adjustment must be requested directly to the air carrier.

Air carriers require the passenger name to appear on the airline ticket exactly it appears on the passport. If it does not match exactly, AmaWaterways shall not be responsible or liable for the consequences which could include re-issue fees or denial of boarding. AmaWaterways shall not be responsible or liable for costs resulting from airline schedule changes, lost air ticket, delay, disruption or cancelled flight, lost or damaged baggage, missed connections, downgrades, denied boarding or voluntarily buying replacement tickets. Should a replacement ticket be purchased without collaboration or approval with an AmaWaterways representative, this cost will be incurred to the guest alone and AmaWaterways will have no obligation to refund the cost of any new ticket purchased. In any of these instances, claim must be made directly with the air carrier (and air carrier alone) for any requested reimbursement. In the event any situations as noted occur whilst traveling, AmaWaterways Emergency team will attempt to accommodate and book an alternative, however this cannot be guaranteed and the final accommodation provided will be at the sole discretion of the airline carrier. Once airline check in is completed and/or tickets have been reissued by the airline (at anytime during the booking process), AmaWaterways will be limited to making further changes on a guests air tickets as the airline will have sole control of the guests PNR and/or ticket after this time and all changes must be handled directly with the airline by the guest. This is also the case for any post travel resolution or reimbursement requests for air – these must be directed to the air carrier by the guest and AmaWaterways is not able to assist as traveler must initiate all claims directly. Airline responses and subsequent resolutions may take up to 9 months or more if the airline is willing to consider the request. AmaWaterways recommends that in all situations as listed above, all receipts are retained for costs for submission of claims to the guests insurance company, should these situations be deemed a coverable reason under their insurance policy.

AmaWaterways will endeavor to book guests traveling together on conjunction bookings on the same air schedule where possible if the requests are made at the time of booking the airline reservation. All requests are subject to availability, at time of booking, and with the full knowledge by AmaWaterways that guests are requesting to be booked on the same schedule. As airline-imposed schedule changes are beyond our control, AmaWaterways cannot guarantee airline protection will be the same for all guests traveling together and as such, in the event of a schedule change, guests on conjunction bookings, may be protected on different flights accordingly.

Changes: Airline tickets issued by AmaWaterways have restrictions and cannot be reissued, transferred, or exchanged. Any changes whatsoever made to an airline ticket will incur a minimum $350 per ticket change fee for Economy ($600 for Business), plus any additional increase in the cost of the airfare. A change or refund request for tickets purchased through AmaWaterways must be made through AmaWaterways but may not be possible. Once a trip commences, only the date of the return flight ticket can be modified for $350 per ticket change fee for Economy ($600 per ticket for Business). Other changes may require purchase of a new ticket. The original return air ticket has no residual value.

Limitation on Special Requests & Frequent Flyer Numbers: AmaWaterways will try to relay requests for special meals, adding frequent flyer numbers or for seat assignments, etc. However, confirmation of any request rests solely with the airline and the passenger or travel advisor must always confirm directly with the airline. It is recommended that each passenger provide their frequent flyer number to the airline at the time of check-in. Please note that airline tickets issued by AmaWaterways have restrictions that may not allow credit in part or whole for frequent flyer miles. Checking with the air carrier is the responsibility of the passenger.

Baggage: Checked and carry-on baggage are subject to restrictions that usually involve weight, size and/or number of pieces. Please check with the respective airline regarding baggage policies. There are strict luggage restrictions for our programs in Africa; please ask for details. We shall not be responsible or liable for costs or consequences for exceeding the airline’s baggage restrictions, or for loss, theft, damage or delay to passenger’s baggage.

Airport Transfers: Guests purchasing transoceanic airfare through AmaWaterways may qualify for complimentary group airport transfers for a scheduled arrival between the airport and the ship or hotel, and on a scheduled departure between the hotel or the ship and airport. Airport transfers in Africa and Egypt to/from the hotel are included on the first and last days (when applicable) of your trip, unless deviating from advertised program. If airport transfers are not reflected on your confirmation, AmaWaterways will not be responsible for providing airport transfer service. Please note: our group airport transfer service may involve some waiting time. All guests making their own airfare arrangements are responsible for arranging their transportation to/from the airport (except Africa and Egypt). Individual airport transfers can be purchased for those guests who are scheduled to arrive/depart on our itinerary dates, please ask for details.

Changes in Cruise and Cruise & Land Itineraries: Carrier seeks to provide services as published or stated in the Digital Travel Documents. But deviations to planned cruise, cruise & land itinerary or any other aspects of the travel may occur. If conditions make cruise routes unsafe for navigation or in other respects, or raise sufficient doubt about safety, Carrier reserves the right to modify or provide alternate services. These may include, but are not limited to, providing accommodation on the docked ship and/or substituting ground arrangements. An effort will be made to try to arrange elements of the cruise and cruise tour similar to those originally planned, but the level of similarity may vary. Except as otherwise provided in your Passenger Ticket Contract, such changes will not entitle you to any credit or a refund. Cruise, cruise & land routes, and all other aspects of the cruise and travel are subject to change with or without notice.

Hotel Accommodations: We will seek to use hotels listed (if any) on your confirmation. Changes may be necessary; therefore, use of such hotels is not assured. An effort will be made to substitute similar hotels, but the level of similarity may vary. Standard policy for hotels is to have rooms available for check-in no earlier than 3:00 p.m. Subject to the discretion of the hotel, triple-occupancy hotel accommodations may involve the use of hotel rooms with just two beds. Only those guests who have elected to take our Cruise & Land program on the brochure itinerary dates will receive transfers between the hotel(s) and the ship.

Cancellation by Carrier: Carrier reserves the right to cancel, change or postpone any cruise departure date and itinerary. In the event of a complete cancellation of a departure by Carrier, we will refund monies paid for the cruise or cruise & land package to those participants who have not previously cancelled. See Passenger Ticket Contract for further details.

Personal Changes: Except as otherwise provided in the Passenger Ticket Contract, participant’s deviation from the published itinerary for any reason will not entitle participant to any reduction in charge. Participant will bear a full charge for any unused services.

Child Policy: All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a stateroom with an adult and must remain supervised at all times; their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). Children between the ages of 4-10 at the time of embarkation may share a stateroom with two adults only in circumstances where the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony staterooms of any kind may be unsafe for small children if left unsupervised. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted on board; children 4-5 years old are not recommended on any program. On our Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise program, due to safety precautions, there is a minimum age limit of 12 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities.

Disabled Participants: Handicapped facilities are not available on board or in many places visited on the cruises and cruise tours we offer. If you (participant) have a disability and reasonable accommodation may enable you to use the services, please let us know how you believe we can help. Participant are requested to inform us in writing, at or immediately after making the reservation, but in any event as early as possible, of any mobility impairment or other condition, whether physical, emotional or mental, which may require accommodation or use of an assistive device during the travel.  A reasonable effort will be made to accommodate special needs, but we are not responsible for denial of service by Carriers, hotels, or other independent Suppliers. A participant, who, due to impairment, is not self-sufficient, may need to travel with a companion who shall take responsibility for assistance needed during travel and in case of emergency. An individual with a disability that would result in a direct threat to the health and safety of others or to that individual may be excluded, if it is determined there is a significant risk that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by reasonable accommodations, policies, practices, procedures assistive devices or services. If participant fails to timely inform us of any impairment or condition and/or their participation poses a safety risk to participant or direct health or safety threat to others, participant may be excluded from parts or all of the travel. We shall have no liability to participant relating to any condition, treatment, failure to inform us of an impairment, or resulting exclusion.

Due to medical safety guidelines, we are unable to accommodate passengers who will enter their 24th week of pregnancy by the time of the cruise.

Medical: Medical doctors are not available on any vessel. If medical services are required, efforts to contact local medical providers will be made. A participant requiring such assistance is solely responsible for all related charges. We will not be responsible or liable for sufficiency of our efforts to reach medical providers, unavailability, delay, quality or other aspect of any such services. Participant is encouraged at time of booking and well before departure, to review participant’s health and medical conditions and insurance and consult participant’s health care and insurance providers regarding needs and scope of coverage for any incident or need that may occur during travel, and to obtain supplemental health and medical insurance for the travel, as needed.

Inoculations and Medical Preparation: All passengers traveling on certain Africa itineraries will require Yellow Fever vaccination. AmaWaterways strongly recommends that all passengers take malaria pills for travel to Africa. Please contact your personal physician or local health department prior to travel for further detailed information and recommended precautionary measures.

Smoking: Smoking is only permitted on the ship’s Sun Deck in the designated smoking area.

Diet: Special dietary requests must be provided to us at time of reservation. An effort will be made to meet the request, but we cannot assure the request can be accommodated.

California Seller of Travel Law: We are registered with the California Attorney General, California Seller of Travel Program as AmaWaterways LLC, registration number CST 2065452-20. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. This transaction is covered by the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund (TCRF) if we were registered and participating in TCRF at the time of sale and you are located in California at the time of payment.

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TRIP NOTES

NUMBER OF NIGHTS: 13

TRIP BEGINS/ENDS:

Amsterdam, Netherlands to Basel Switzerland

 

PASSPORT REQUIRED:

Yes

CRUISE DATE:

December 12th to 25th, 2023

GROUP SIZE:

No Limit

DEPOSIT PER PERSON:

$400

FINAL PAYMENT DUE:

September 15th, 2023

INTERPRETERS: 

Heart Cruises LLC will provide ASL (American Sign Language) Interpreters for this trip.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin 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 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

  • 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 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

  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

  • Airfare

  • Airport transfers not mentioned

  • Phone, fax and other incidentals

  • Medical attention

  • Water Bottle(s)

  • Travel insurance

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Category D - Piano Deck - Fixed Window

Starting at: $4198 per person based on double occupancy

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Category CB - Violin Deck - French Balcony

Starting at $4698 per person based on double occupancy.

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Category CA - Violin & Cello Deck - French Balcony

Starting at $4998 per person based on double occupancy.

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Category BB - Cello Deck - French Balcony and Outside Balcony

Starting at: $5598 per person based on double occupancy.

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Category BA - Violin Deck - French Balcony and Outside Balcony

Starting at: $5798 per person based on double occupancy.

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Category AB - Cello Deck - French Balcony and Outside Balcony

Starting at: $5998 per person based on double occupancy.

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Category AA - Violin Deck Deck - French Balcony and Outside Balcony

Starting at: $6198 per person based on double occupancy.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Heart Cruises, LLC  recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to protect yourself and your trip investment from the unexpected. Now more than ever it’s extremely important to think about the unexpected. It is important to purchase the travel protection within 15 days of your initial invoice date in order to receive the most coverage. Consider travel protection for Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more

All itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice.

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