European Waterways Unveils New Themed Cruises
Responding to the ever increasing demand for experiential travel, European Waterways is now offering a wider range of new themed cruise departures for 2020 that can be booked on a per-cabin basis.
Cruises eligible for cabin bookings include the April 5 Whisky Trail cruise aboard the Scottish Highlander and the April 26 Golf Cruise aboard the Spirit of Scotland, both on Scotland’s Caledonian Canal; the April 12 Wine Appreciation Cruise aboard L’Impressionniste in Burgundy, France; and the Aug. 16 Opera Cruise aboard La Bella Vita, which sails out of Venice.
Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways, explained that European Waterways’ themed cruises feature enhanced itineraries that highlight guests’ particular interests. For example, wine cruises will contain more exclusive tastings on a variety of vintages than the classic cruises, while golf cruises include guaranteed tee times at world-class courses. The cruises are especially appealing to small groups or local clubs that share a common pastime or passion.
“Our guests don’t want to be ‘spectators’ of history and culture, they want to be participants,” said Banks. “From sharing a glass of Pastis with a friendly lock keeper, to gourmet lunch with a baroness, to playing golf in the country that invented the sport, they seek immersive experiences that are both memorable and meaningful in providing insight into the local cultures.”
For single malt whisky enthusiasts, the April 5 Whisky Trail cruise aboard the eight-passenger Scottish Highlander hotel barge is ideal. Guests will visit at least three distilleries, where they will enjoy private tours and tastings. Cabins rates start at $4,590 per person, double occupancy.
The April 12 Wine Appreciation Cruise takes place aboard the 12-passenger L’Impressionniste in Southern Burgundy and features private tastings at some of the best, “off the beaten path” vineyards. Regions visited include the Loire Valley, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon and Alsace. Rates start at $5,350 per person, double occupancy.
European Waterways’ 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland Golf Cruise starts at $4,790 per person.
For opera lovers, Venice’s Arena di Verona offers one of the most impressive settings to enjoy a performance of some of the world’s most famous operas. The Aug. 16 departure on the 20-passenger La Bella Vita includes premium seats at this internationally famous venue for a performance of Verdi’s “Nabucco.” Cabins start at $4,050 per person, double occupancy.
