Festive Christmas Markets
Explore seasonal markets in cities such as Basel, Strasbourg, Heidelberg, and Cologne.
An Invitation from Angela & Brian Hughes
Celebrate Christmas on the Rhine with Angela & Brian
Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles – Soulful Experience
Experience the magic of Europe's Christmas markets, historic castles, and enchanting Rhine River scenery on a remarkable holiday journey aboard AmaWaterways' AmaVenita.
Join Angela and Brian Hughes for a festive river cruise through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, where cultural discoveries, beautiful destinations, and meaningful travel experiences come together.
Stateroom availability and pricing are subject to confirmation.
Your Hosts
A Holiday Journey
Worth Sharing
There's something especially memorable about experiencing Europe during the Christmas season.
Imagine strolling through festive markets, discovering centuries-old castles, enjoying scenic river cruising, and returning each evening to the comfort of your ship.
Angela and Brian will be traveling on this December 2026 AmaWaterways sailing and invite you to join them for a holiday adventure filled with discovery, culture, and the joy of exploring together.
Whether this is your first river cruise or another chapter in your travel story, this is an opportunity to experience the Rhine during one of its most atmospheric seasons.
Soulful Experience
More Than a Christmas Markets Cruise
The Rhine has inspired artists, musicians, and storytellers for generations.
AmaWaterways' Soulful Experience brings an additional cultural dimension to this remarkable river journey, celebrating the relationship between the African diaspora and European culture through live performances, artist encounters, and thoughtfully curated programming.
Against a backdrop of Alpine scenery, medieval towns, and legendary castles, discover a journey that brings together history, creativity, and meaningful cultural exploration.
And throughout the voyage, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Europe's Christmas markets.
Seven Nights. Four Countries.
Countless Memorable Moments.
Castles Along the Rhine
Cruise through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, framed by historic castles and terraced vineyards.
Charming European Cities
Discover beautiful architecture, winding streets, and centuries of history.
Cultural Discoveries
Experience Amsterdam's canals and the distinctive character of the destinations along the route.
DECEMBER 15–22, 2026 · 7-NIGHT CRUISE
From Switzerland to the Netherlands
Explore the Rhine, one memorable day at a time.
SWISS ALPS & RHINE CASTLES
Basel, Switzerland
Itinerary and excursions are subject to change. Some activities are alternatives rather than cumulative inclusions. Final travel documents provide the latest schedule. Source: AmaWaterways Soulful Experience itinerary, updated October 20, 2026.
Your Christmas
Rhine River Cruise
Awaits
Planning to join Angela and Brian?
Our Trips & Ships Luxury Travel team can assist you with requesting current stateroom availability, exploring cabin categories, reviewing applicable fares and promotions, and understanding the booking process.
- Departure
- December 15, 2026
- Return
- December 22, 2026
- Ship
- AmaVenita
- Route
- Basel to Amsterdam
- Availability
- Upon Request
- Cruise Fare
- Request Current Pricing
Submitting an inquiry does not create or guarantee a reservation. Prices, promotions, and availability must be confirmed before booking.
Your Home Along the Rhine
Sail Aboard
AmaVenita
Experience the Rhine from the comfort of AmaWaterways' AmaVenita, your home for this seven-night holiday journey.
Unpack once and enjoy the ease of river cruising as you travel between beautiful European destinations. Spend your days discovering charming towns and cultural treasures, then return aboard to relax, dine, and enjoy the scenery.
AmaVenita
AmaWaterways River Cruise Ship
7 Nights
December 15–22, 2026
Basel to Amsterdam
One-Way Rhine River Voyage
4 Countries
Switzerland, France, Germany, Netherlands
THE AMAWATERWAYS EXPERIENCE
What's Included with Your Cruise
More Room to Breathe
- Accommodation options including suites, solo staterooms and connecting rooms
- Signature twin balconies in many rooms
- Daily housekeeping and evening turndown service
- Bathrobes, slippers and bathroom amenities
- Reusable water bottle
- Onboard Wi-Fi
A Flavor for Every Moment
- Onboard meals
- Specialty dining at The Chef's Table
- Wine, beer and soft drinks served with meals
- Specialty coffee and tea
- Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour
- Snacks available in the lounge
- Welcome cocktail reception
Adventures on Your Terms
- Expert-guided excursions with a variety of choices
- Gentle, regular and active experiences for many activities
- Wellness programming on most sailings, including fitness, stretching and meditation
Designed for the Way You Travel
- Knowledgeable Cruise Manager throughout the journey
- Regional entertainment and musical performances
- Experiences for solo travelers
- Included shore experiences, onboard amenities and port charges
Inclusions and activities may vary by sailing and availability. Confirm specific arrangements with Trips & Ships Luxury Travel.
EXPLORE YOUR SHIP
Discover AmaVenita's Deck Plans
Get to know AmaVenita before your Rhine River journey. Explore the ship's four decks and discover where its onboard spaces and staterooms are located.
Sun Deck
Explore the upper outdoor deck of AmaVenita, including its pool and open-air spaces.
Violin Deck
Explore the Violin Deck, including its stateroom locations and accommodations.
Cello Deck
Explore the Cello Deck and its stateroom layout.
Piano Deck
Explore the Piano Deck and its stateroom layout.
Accessibility note: AmaVenita's elevator serves the Violin and Cello Decks. It does not reach the Sun or Piano Decks.
YOUR CHRISTMAS RHINE JOURNEY
Cruise Pricing
& Stateroom Options
Discover the Rhine aboard AmaWaterways' AmaVenita. Explore your stateroom options and request current pricing for this special Christmas Markets and Soulful Experience sailing.
AmaVenita
December 15 - 22, 2026
Basel to Amsterdam
Published Starting Fare
$5,299
USD / per person
Starting fare shown for the December 15, 2026 AmaVenita sailing. Request current pricing and available stateroom options.
Request Current PricingPublished starting fare is subject to change and availability. Final pricing, applicable promotions, stateroom categories, and inclusions require confirmation. The two-night Amsterdam post-cruise extension is not confirmed as included in this fare.
Inquiry
Interested in Joining Angela & Brian?
Complete the short inquiry form below, and our team will help you explore your options for this special December sailing.
Having trouble viewing the form? Open the registration form in a new tab .
Submitting this form does not create or guarantee a cruise reservation. Availability, pricing, and booking details are subject to confirmation.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a Christmas Markets cruise?
Yes. The official itinerary includes Christmas market experiences in destinations such as Basel, Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, and Cologne, together with Soulful Experience cultural programming.
Will Angela and Brian be traveling on this sailing?
Yes. Angela and Brian are confirmed on the December 15–22, 2026 AmaVenita sailing.
How much does the cruise cost?
Current public fares depend on the stateroom category, applicable promotions, and availability. Contact Trips & Ships Luxury Travel for an updated quote.
Can I choose my stateroom?
You can request a preferred category. Specific cabin availability must be confirmed with AmaWaterways.
Are flights and travel insurance included?
The supplied itinerary does not establish that airfare or travel insurance is included. Our team can review the applicable inclusions and optional arrangements when preparing your quote.
Does submitting the form reserve my cabin?
No. The form is an inquiry only. Your reservation is subject to supplier confirmation and applicable booking requirements.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or food allergies?
AmaWaterways will do its best to accommodate most dietary requests when notified in advance. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and other preferences can typically be arranged; however, kosher meals cannot be provided due to onboard preparation limitations.
Are meals and beverages included on board?
Yes. All meals on board are included, along with complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, plus a Sip & Sail cocktail hour before dinner on European cruises. Coffee, tea, and bottled water are available around the clock. Premium beverages and imported wines are available for purchase.
What happens if the river levels are too low or high?
With over 20 years of river cruise experience, AmaWaterways closely monitors river conditions and has contingency plans in place should water levels affect navigation. Adjustments may include alternate docking locations, modified excursions, or ship swaps, ensuring your journey continues smoothly.
Is there free time in each destination?
Yes. Every itinerary includes free time to explore at your own pace, whether that means visiting a local café, shopping in a market, or strolling through town. Your Cruise Manager and local guides are always happy to offer recommendations.
What’s the dress code on board?
Dress aboard AmaWaterways ships is comfortable and casually elegant. On all ships, something a little dressier is recommended for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. Guests sailing in warmer destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and Colombia should pack breathable fabrics, sun protection, and modest attire for temple visits.
In primarily Muslim countries like Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE, guests should dress respectfully, with women covering shoulders and arms and men wearing collared shirts and lightweight pants.
What types of experiences on shore are offered?
Each itinerary features a variety of guided excursions designed to showcase local culture, history, and cuisine. Choose from gentle walking tours, active hikes or bike rides, and immersive experiences such as wine or beer tastings, cooking classes, and visits to local artisans.
What is included in the cruise fare?
Your AmaWaterways river cruise includes spacious accommodations, all meals on board, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, shore excursions led by expert local guides, Wi-Fi, and the services of a professional Cruise Manager throughout your journey. On select sailings, some shore excursions are an additional cost.
Make This Christmas a
Journey to Remember
From the festive streets of Strasbourg to the castles of the Rhine Gorge and the timeless canals of Amsterdam, discover the beauty of Europe during the holiday season.
Join Angela and Brian for a meaningful Christmas river cruise filled with culture, discovery, and memorable moments.
December 15–22, 2026 | AmaVenita | Basel to Amsterdam
Request Availability & PricingYour next memorable journey begins with a conversation.