Exclusive Wine Cruise Christmas Markets on the Rhine (Wine Cruise) Nov 25 - Dec 2, 2026

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Hosted by Dom Maxwell, Winemaker, Greystone Wines - Waipara, New Zeland

Dom Maxwell has been the winemaker for Greystone Wines since the vineyard’s inception with the first plantings in 2004. He has now made wine from the vineyard for 19 vintages and there has been an evolution of both style and character of the wines as the vines have aged and as Dom looks to push boundaries and oust conventional thinking with a close and personal relationship between vineyard and winery. His techniques can be classified both as very traditional and as breaking new ground.

Dom has worked overseas at Chehalem in Oregon (USA) , Weingut Leitz in the Rheinagu (Germany) and at Domaine ‘d Eugenie in Vosne-Romanee, Burgundy (France). These varying experiences overseas have helped to not only understand other wine regions but also to develop a philosophical stance for the wines off Greystone Vineyard.

The team at Greystone have continued to evolve both the vineyard and wines from the beautiful clay and limestone soils of North Canterbury, making wines that speak proudly of their unique place.

Expertly Curated WINE EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to uncork the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.

About the Wine Region – The Rhine

The Rhine along with its main tributaries—the Moselle and Main—have created a wine connoisseur’s paradise, which can be discovered on our Europe’s Rivers & Castles, Enchanting Rhine, Captivating Rhine and Rhine & Moselle Splendors itineraries.

The Upper Middle Rhine’s slate soil combined with a semi-continental climate have proven to be a recipe for wine-growing success for the Rheingau vineyards, yielding high-quality white wine varieties, and some fine reds.

Overview Christmas Markets on the Rhine


7-night Cruise

Cruise From: Basel to Amsterdam

Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year. From Germany’s glittery cities to the iconic canals of Amsterdam, get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the "Capital of Noël," Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.

COUNTRIES: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland

RIVERS: Rhine

Christmas Markets on the Rhine At A Glance

On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
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Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Included Features Christmas Markets on the Rhine


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
  • 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 Activities 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 packages
  • 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 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
  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways

Dates & Prices Christmas Markets on the Rhine

EMBARK November 25
7-NIGHT CRUISEBaselAmsterdam
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS ZURICH, 2 NIGHTS LAKE LUCERNE PRE-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
160 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
160 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category C
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $1,499 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category BB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,099 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category BA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category AB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,499 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category AA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $2,699 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category AA+
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
290 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $3,299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
300 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL $3,999 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Christmas Markets NoticeMost Christmas Markets open during the last week of November and remain open until approximately Dec. 22. Check with each country’s tourist office for more information.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)$250 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of twin price; AA+ and Suite 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for LandA single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.

BeddingPlease select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

Terms & Conditions:

All rates are per person for cruise only, include port fees and are based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offers are valid on select sailings only and applicable to new bookings only. Unless explicitly stated that single supplement is waived, solo travelers in a double occupancy stateroom must pay an additional single supplement amount before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions. Offers are not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-20.

Ships Christmas Markets on the Rhine

AmaCerto

This 162-passenger vessel incorporates the most advanced design offering spacious staterooms featuring our exclusive twin balconies, multiple dining venues, heated pool, Internet/WiFi access and more.Learn more

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