Experienced river cruiser Regine A. and her daughter Shannon recently chose to join us during a special series of charter sailings on the Rhine and Main rivers. Eager to enjoy some mother and daughter time together and reassured by the added layer of health and safety protocols related to COVID-19, they remained cautiously optimistic about the journey to come as they boarded our award-winning AmaKristina.
Authentic Regional Cuisine
A German native, Regine enjoyed cruising through Germany and could attest to the authenticity of the experience provided by AmaWaterways. In fact, she was particularly fond of the regionally-inspired cuisine prepared by Chef Daniel and his team, and gave exceptionally high marks to our traditional apple strudel.
Regine was similarly impressed by the myriad of choices available at breakfast – which was served a la carte as part of our enhanced health and safety measures. “I didn’t miss the buffets at all,” she admitted. “You could order everything from an omelet to smoked salmon to a French-style breakfast – there was nothing you couldn’t have!”
Fresh Air and Stunning Views
Regine was delighted to dine al fresco on the Sun Deck with her daughter and enjoy the beautiful landscapes gliding by. In addition, having reserved one of our signature twin-balcony staterooms, they were able to take in the fresh air and ever-changing views from the comfort of their very own stateroom.
The women also reveled in the opportunity to take our complimentary bikes and helmets, pre-sanitized of course, for a spin and venture further into each destination while pedaling along the rivers. “Docking right in the center of most towns was easy and convenient – we just walked off the ship, grabbed a couple of the ship’s bikes and were able to explore,” she said.
Peace of Mind
While on board, Regine was continuously reassured that her health and safety were the crew's top priority. Temperatures were taken daily and guests were required to wear face coverings when moving around inside the ship, but these could be removed once they were seated in the dining room or lounge area as well as while out on the Sun Deck.
During mealtimes, guests were seated in accordance with the most up-to-date distancing guidelines. However, Regine did not feel this impacted the social experience of dining that most guests enjoy while cruising. “We could chat with our neighbors at their separate table, yet we still felt safe and comfortable,” she said.
In addition, Regine took note that the crew aboard AmaKristina safely wore their masks, which provided the women with peace of mind throughout their journey. While in the main lounge, the plexiglass dividers between seating areas created almost invisible protection without the women feeling isolated from others around them.