Just because summer is receding into the rearview mirror doesn’t mean you’ve missed your chance for a multigenerational cruise this year. AmaWaterways
is already looking ahead to the winter holidays with Christmas Market cruises on the Rhine and Danube just right for every member of the family.
In fact, in recent years, AmaWaterways’ themed Christmas Market cruises have risen in popularity with the multigenerational market looking to make the most of the school vacation periods while making lasting family memories.
“Our wonderful crews organize special activities onboard to create a festive feeling that really resonates with guests of all ages, making them feel right at home and getting them into the holiday spirit,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder, AmaWaterways. “With tree decorating contests, gingerbread-making, a Captain’s Christmas party, traditional holiday dinner and carolers, families can truly enjoy a memorable and stress-free holiday experience when sailing along Europe’s most beautiful rivers!”
New this year is a Christmas Markets on the Danube itinerary, which showcases some of Europe’s most famous holiday markets. Families will see glittering Christmas trees illuminated with thousands of lights, bells ringing from cathedral towers and a choir of Christmas carolers feting the season in cities like Budapest, Vienna and Salzburg.
Take the kids and wander among colorful market stalls offering seasonal handicrafts, regional treats and even hot mulled wine for Mom and Dad.
The itinerary includes special tasting tours that offer samples of local delicacies and excursions through interesting areas, such as the Benedictine Abbey in Melk and Linz’s famed “Culture Mile.” And, because the weather is cooler at this time of year, passengers can join hiking and biking tours, while others can relax on buses or leisurely walking tours.
There are four holiday itineraries that visit quaint villages and iconic cities celebrating the Christmas Markets on the Rhine and Danube rivers.
Meanwhile, onboard the new AmaMagna, for example, families can enjoy a special collection of 10 holiday-themed movies at the onboard cinema, which accommodates 26 guests on plush sofas surrounding a 98-inch screen.
Are you wondering if your family is up for a multigenerational cruise? According to a 2018 study by AARP, 13 percent of Generation X travelers are keen on international travel with the extended family, along with 11 percent of millennials and 8 percent of Baby Boomers.
But because each of these groups typically looks for different features in a vacation experience, AmaWaterways is going all out to appeal to each segment with diverse activities, amenities and itineraries. In fact, AmaWaterways’ curated itineraries offer a choice of up to 20 included excursions during the weeklong cruise, designed for all three generations, from the active to the slower-paced traveler.
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