Cathy and Doug Ellison’s Recent Cruising Experiences, Onboard AMA Waterways and Windstar Cruises!
Written by Cathy and Doug Ellison |
Recently, Doug and Cathy Ellison got to board both AMA Waterways and Windstar for two unforgettable group cruise experiences! Being seasoned AMA Waterways and Windstar Cruise travellers, they knew they were in for a remarkable experience with both tours.
Our AMA Waterways Experience
Picture this: the Rhine River winding between lush greenery, dotted with charming houses and fantastical castles, cruising through the sights onboard a quaint and intimate river cruise. This was our most recent experience with AMA Waterways, a lovely river cruise with no more than 150 passengers and a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Cabins onboard were roomy and well appointed, allowing us to easily unpack our belongings. After getting settled, we were able to step off the ship in small quaint villages, where we got a guided tour. Also at our disposal was the option to take a coach tour for a more expansive experience than our legs could take us. For those wanting a solo journey, there was always the option to depart on your own. We were able to disembark daily as we needed, or we could stay onboard the ship if we desired a more relaxed afternoon.
Evenings began with a cocktail hour, where guests could intermingle. Music sang through the air from the onboard entertainment, which featured local bands during certain evenings as an added treat! AMA Waterways supplied nothing but the most fresh cuisine, with food being locally sourced. Each meal was themed according to the destination outside our port windows. Feast on pillowy soft gnocchi in creamy rosé sauce as we journeyed through Italy or crispy chicken Schnitzel as we made our way through Germany, all authentic and accompanied by a chilled glass of wine or pint of beer!
AMA Waterways provided us with a memorable, luxurious and intimate experience for our group of travellers.
Our Experience Setting Sail on Windstar
Turquoise blue water, with lush green trees and enormous white sails gently flowy above. This is the Windstar experience, something like no other small ship company offers. The atmosphere onboard was casual and friendly, allowing us to feel the comfort and luxury that Windstar is famous for. The staff onboard were extremely kind and available at a moment’s notice. We could unpack once and step off the ship in and out of ports that were not accessible to larger ships – no having to wait to disembark. Onboard, there were plenty of exciting activities awaiting for passengers with a fully stocked sports deck towards the back of the ship that offered passengers to swim, snorkel, kayak and sunbathe in the waters once we were anchored.
When evenings commence, the sails would rise allowing us to get the true experience of sailing. Majestic music plays throughout the decks, and the ship’s engine came to a halt during favourable weather conditions, allowing the wind and sails to be our guide. Meals onboard were always excellent, with the option of beverage packages to upgrade the experience. Speaking of upgrades, for those looking for an elevated experience, hop onboard one of Windstar’s yachts for larger rooms and balcony options.
All in all, the Windstar experience offered a unique and memorable vacation.
