ENGAGE VACATIONS FRIENDS & FAMILY
CHRISTMAS MARKETS ON THE RHINE
DECEMBER 11 - 18, 2027
Join us as we celebrate Teresa’s 50th birthday!
Together we will step into the magic of Europe’s holiday traditions wandering timeless Christmas markets, sip warm glühwein beneath Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, feel the charm of Strasbourg’s “Capital of Noël,” and embrace the festive spirit in Heidelberg’s Old Town as we sail the Rhine in grand seasonal style.
- Itinerary -
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Day 1
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
Welcome to Amsterdam!
The day is yours to relax and explore the city on your own.
Dinner included
Day 2
AMSTERDAM - UTRECHT
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam to Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour.
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Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 3
DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY
Enjoy a scenic cruise into Düsseldorf. In the afternoon, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne on a guided tour of its enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. Then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets. Or explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Conclude the tour with a visit to the local Christmas Market.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 4
RHINE GORGE - RÜDESHEIM.
Cruise through the castle-laden Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have four choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting followed by a Christmas Market visit to enjoy holiday traditions from around the world. Or go on a hike through the vineyards. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful ride over the vineyards on Rüdesheim’s gondola followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River before visiting the Christmas Market. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee.
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Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 5
LUDWIGSHAFEN
You have the choice to explore two of Germany’s historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Or hike along the Neckar River on the historic Philosopher’s Path followed by free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can bike along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic Imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom).
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Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 6
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a short drive to the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. Later in the day, opt to visit Baden-Baden and take in the town’s romantic Christmas Markets.
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Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
Day 7
BREISACH, GERMANY
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Journey into medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town’s wonderful Christmas Markets. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Then enjoy free time at the Freiburg Christmas Markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through Breisach’s countryside.
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Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Day 8
BASEL, SWITZERLAND - DISEMBARKATION
Bid farewell to Basel and prepare for your return flight home.
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Breakfast included
- Ship Details -
AmaSofia
•New ship debuting Spring 2026
•Maximum of 152 guests
•51 Crew
•Complimentary Wi-Fi
•Award-winning Dining including dining at The Chef’s Table
•Afternoon tea
•Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
•Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
•Daily entertainment including cultural performances
•Festive holiday activities like tree trimming, cookie decorating, caroling and even a visit from Santa!
- Luxurious Staterooms -
Current rates as of 11/13/25
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Early Booking Bonus of $1000 off per person is set to expire 11/30, but could end early. Rates are based on two guests in a cabin. Gratuities and transfers between the airport and ship are not included. Rates and availability are subject to change. Rates listed below include Early Booking and group discount.
Category E - $3729 per person 2 left
Category D - sold out
Category CB - sold out
Category CA - $5328 per person 5+ left
Category BB - $5928 per person 5+ left
Category BA - $6128 per person 5+ left
Category AB - $6328 per person 5+ left
Category AA - $6528 per person 5+ left
Category SS - $7928 per person 4 left
SUITE
Violin Deck
French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 350 sq. ft.
- Frequently Asked Questions -
What are exclusive group rates?
By booking within our contracted group, your cruise fare is $250 per person less than the published rates and is often combinable with other promotions. Availability with our group rate is limited.
What is the deposit?
The deposit is $400 per person. Half of the deposit is non-refundable.
When is final payment due?
The final payment will be due 90 days prior to the start date. For cruise only reservations, that is 9/12/2027.
What is included?
All meals on board, beer, wine & soft drinks at lunch and dinner are included as well as a daily happy hour on board. All excursions other than those listed as optional are also included.
I’m a solo traveler. Can I still join?
Yes! We would love for you to join us. The pricing included here is based on two guests. Please reach out for pricing for a solo traveler.
Can I extend in before or after the cruise?
Yes! Pre and post cruise packages or available with Ama Waterways, or we can customize something separately.
What is the cancellation policy?
The cancellation penalty depends on when you cancel and if you have air or pre/post cruise extensions added into your package. Your invoice will have specific details. The following chart shows the cancellation schedule for cruise only reservations.
Is insurance available?
Insurance is available. Insurance rates vary depending on several factors. Once deposited, you will receive a quote for optional insurance.
How do I hold my room?
Complete the Client Information Form on www.engagevacations.com/client-information-form and we will hold your cabin and send you a reservation to review prior to making your deposit payment.
Who do I contact for more questions?
You can contact Teresa Shields with Engage Vacations. teresa@engagevacations.com or 512-922-3222