River-Cruises

Exclusive Wine Cruise

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Hosted by Jean-Noel Fourmeaux & Matthew Regan, Proprietor and Managing Director, VGS Chateau Potelle, St Helena, CA

Jean-Noel Fourmeaux

Sent to the Napa Valley by the French government “to spy” for six months, Jean-Noel Fourmeaux reported back home “Looks good, I stay”. This son of Bordeaux created VGS Chateau Potelle 39 years ago on Mount Veeder in Napa Valley. Originally seduced by the exuberance and generosity of the Napa Valley fruit, Jean-Noel makes wines that have dimension, subtlety and definitive character. A true French-American blend, he travels the world sharing the culture of wine with his customers and friends, from Bordeaux where he is from, to South Africa, Europe, and beyond.

Matthew Regan

With 22 years experience at Chateau Potelle, Matthew has become the right hand to Jean-Noel’s left. Born and raised in New England, educated at the CIA in Hyde Park, New York, seasoned at Blackberry Farm in Tennessee and maturing (at least trying) in the Napa Valley with his amazing wife Lindsay and twin daughters, Aubrey James & Madison Anne Marie. When not working at or drinking VGS, Matthew can be found in the hot tub or sleeping!

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 – Wachau Valley

Brilliant architectural masterpieces and vine-strung hillsides on the Danube River have inspired artistic creations for hundreds of years. The Romantic Danube journeys through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, so you can experience some of the most celebrated wines and sights in Europe’s heartland.

Over 3,700 acres of terraced vineyards rise from Austria’s illustrious Wachau Valley. Located between the towns of Melk and Krems, this cooler-climate wine region brings a wide variety of refreshing, peppery white-grape wines to fruition. Grüner Veltliner is considered to be the most important grape in Austria. Grown in loess soils by the river’s edge, these favored wines offer aromatic stone fruit flavors reminiscent of the terroir. Riesling, the second most popular grape, loves rocky inclines, so it is extensively sewn into the rich hillside. Fruity notes and floral scents surface from these unique whites.

Overview


7- Night Cruise

CRUISE FROM : Budapest to Vilshofen

Travel on the beautiful Danube through four European countries. Experience the sights and sounds that have long inspired musicians, poets and artists. Begin your cruise in Budapest, continuing on to Bratislava and Vienna, the romantic birthplace of the waltz. Cruise through the scenic wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, visit the spectacular Benedictine Abbey in Melk, and explore charming medieval towns. Conclude your journey with a three night stay in Munich or Prague.

COUNTRIES:

RIVERS:

At A Glance

On our 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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Included Features


7- Night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights deluxe cruise accommodation in an outside stateroom
  • Life enriching tours and excursions daily
  • Entertainment on demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed Internet access, hit Hollywood movies, extensive music library and English language TV stations
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AWARD-WINNING DINING

  • 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.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
  • Terry bathrobes and white-on-white plush bedding
  • Fine dining with all meals included during your cruise
  • Multiple dining venues on select vessels
  • Free-flowing red & white wines from Europe's great wine regions, beer & soft drinks with every lunch and dinner on board
  • Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
  • Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain's Gala Dinner

AWARD-WINNING DINING

  • Special highlights including lectures, cooking demonstration, onboard music performances and piano music
  • Bicycles to explore on your own & guided bicycle tours
  • Services of professional Cruise Manager
  • All English language on board in a non-smoking environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
  • Transfers between hotel and ship are included with the purchase of cruise and land package; airport transfers are included with the purchase of airfare from AmaWaterways
  • All local taxes
  • 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
  • Local Flavors tours
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Personal headset for easy exploration
  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways

Dates & Prices

Thank you for your interest in our itinerary! The 2023 season for this program has ended. For 2024 dates and prices click here.

Notes:

ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)C$277 per person.

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

Single Supplement for LandC$600 per person.

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, based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offer is 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. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Port charges, land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-20.

Ships

Gallery

7- Night Cruise

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