Exclusive Wine Cruise Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) Mar 18 - 25, 2024

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Hosted by Paul & Merrill Bonarrigo, Owners & Winemakers Messina Hof Winery, Bryan, TX

Founders of Messina Hof, Paul & Merrill Bonarrigo, married and settled in Bryan, Texas and together would re-introduce the concept of winemaking in Texas. The Bonarrigo family began making wine in the 1800s in Sicily. Paul & Merrill planted their first vineyard in 1977 and named it Messina Hof, after their family origins of Messina, Sicily and Hof, Germany. The Bonarrigos became pioneers of the Texas wine industry having established Messina Hof as the 4th winery in the state. Today, their son, Paul Mitchell Bonarrrigo and his wife, Karen, continue the legacy of world-class wines and hospitality with the same founding principles of family, tradition and romance. Messina Hof remains a leader in the Texas wine industry, which now has over 350 registered wineries. The Messina Hof brand has also grown from producing only 1,300 gallons to now over 130,000 gallons per year with three locations in Texas: Bryan, Fredericksburg, and Grapevine.

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 Lower Danube

From the grand architecture of Budapest to the mystical “Iron Gates” to the spirit of Dracula, the lower Danube is filled with intrigue. Our Gems of Southeast Europe itinerary journeys through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, where you can taste the diversity of five countries’ age-old winemaking traditions. Southeast of the Riesling-rich Wachau Valley, the lower Danube wine regions offer a rich variety. The Szekszárd wine region is one of the oldest red wine growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. Known for producing Kadarka grapes, most notably used in the blend known as Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), the region also produces many full-bodied and spicy reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Kékfrankos and Merlot. In Serbia, a fruity plum brandy known as Šlivovitz is the drink of choice, a fitting addition to warm cocktails, while in Croatia, the town of Ilok has a winegrowing history dating back to Roman times, where cellars mature such varietals as Traminac, Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay.

Overview Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7- Night Cruise

CRUISE FROM : Budapest to Rousse

Begin your vacation in Vienna (or in Budapest), one of the world’s most celebrated cities, renowned for its music, architecture and dance. Transfer to Budapest and embark upon your Danube river cruise. Traverse the dramatic narrow gorge known as the Iron Gates, then cruise along the Romanian-Bulgarian border. Visit Vidin, Belogradchik and Bucharest, the capital and largest city in Romania. Disembark and continue by land to Veliko Tarnovo, the ancient capital of Bulgaria, before arriving in Plovdiv. Conclude your journey in Istanbul, a truly exotic and fascinating cultural crossroads.

COUNTRIES: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Serbia, Romania

RIVERS: Danube

Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) 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 Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7- Night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
  • Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
  • Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

  • 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.
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • 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
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and 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 Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

EMBARK March 18
7-NIGHT CRUISEBudapestGiurgiu
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS VIENNA PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS BRASOV, 2 NIGHTS BUCHAREST POST-CRUISE
ADD 2 NIGHTS VIENNA PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS ISTANBUL POST-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$380 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category C
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$1,651 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category BB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$2,413 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category BA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$2,667 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category AB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$2,921 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category AA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$3,175 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
350 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL C$4,827 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)C$285 per person.

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

Single Supplement for Cruise (AmaMagna)Category E and D 25% of twin price; Category AB, AA, SB and SA 50% of twin price; Category Grand Suite and Owners 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.

VisaA Turkish Tourist Visa is required for entry into Istanbul, Turkey. All guests traveling to Turkey must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) prior to their departure date.

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 Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

AmaVerde

Providing the ultimate in custom-designed luxury, this 161-passenger vessel offers twin balcony staterooms, a heated swimming pool, fitness center, and much more.Learn more

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