Scenic
Built in 2015 Scenic Amber is the latest generation of Space-Ships, complete with vitality pool, sun deck and a range of exclusive dining venues. Measuring 135 metres in length and carrying just 169 guests, this luxury ship marries space and intimacy with a sense of exclusivity not regularly found on Europe’s waters.
Delight in the charms of a European Christmas as you cruise along the Rhine. Discover the canals of Amsterdam, explore Cologne’s Christmas markets, take in the spa resort town of Baden-Baden and Heidelberg Castle. Marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge and visit charming Strasbourg. Throughout your journey, you will be enchanted by the magical traditions of Christmas, including the fragrant aroma of gluhwein and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.
Day 1 - 2
Arrive in Amsterdam and transfer to a 5 Star centrally located hotel in Amsterdam, where you will spend two nights.
Day 3 - 4
Depart your hotel and make your way to the port, where you will board Scenic Amber and begin your 7 night All Inclusive cruise. Amsterdam is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town
Day 5
The first stop is Cologne. Cologne is a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, thriving auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but remained standing tall above the ruins of the city. Your Ship will depart during dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas, like hot chestnuts, freshly baked gingerbread and mulled wine, all on offer in this lovely town.
Day 6
You will arrive in Koblenz this morning. Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. During the festive season, the city sparkles with thousands of lights strung along the streets and many buildings illuminated with colourful projections. This afternoon you will cruise along the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years.
Day 7
You will arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its streets that were methodically laid out like a grid in the 17th century. Nearby, the city of Heidelberg is a truly romantic setting, with an 18th-century arch bridge that straddles the Necker River and a 16th-century ruined castle on the hillside looming above town.
Day 8
This morning you will arrive in Rastatt. Enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast in Crystal Dining before your excursion to Baden Baden, famous for its Roman baths. It oozes relaxation, has tranquil green spaces, many pretty public gardens, and grand historical architecture. This afternoon, choose to stay in Baden and enjoy the Christmas Markets, with around 100 beautifully decorated huts and stalls set up in front of the Kurhaus. Pick up handmade gifts, sample local festive treats or take a turn around the ice rink.
Day 9
Arrive in the city of Kehl, the gateway to Strasbourg, this morning and enjoy a guided walking tour of this charming town, taking in many of its most important sights including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile and its beautiful canals. After your guided tour you have free time to explore the magical markets. Strasbourg has some of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe with the town squares and pedestrian zone coming alive with festive cheer. Make the most of your time at the Christmas markets before your Scenic Space-Ship sets sail after lunch bound for Basel.
Day 10
Arrive in Reykjavik, disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your flight home.