Arrive to Amsterdam and transfer to your river ship.
Stay: Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the ms Amacello
Daily Meal Included: • Dinner
Day 2. Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today select your activity from our included options. Perhaps take a canal cruise and admire the city’s architecture as you glide along in a glass-top boat past 17th century homes, charming churches and 16th century merchant houses. Alternatively, you may like to visit the Van Gogh Museum. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Gala Welcome Dinner.
On arrival in the Cochem, visit Reichsburg Castle and absorb the views over the river below. Reboard your ship and take in the scenery of the spectacular Moselle Valley as you drift along the Moselle.
Today cruise through the Rhine Gorge and arrive in Rüdesheim, where you have a choice of activities. Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, take a ride in a gondola for spectacular views, or enjoy a visit to a Rhine Valley winery for a tasting.
In Speyer today, disembark for a brief sightseeing tour. Then visit the fascinating Technik Museum Speyer, Europe’s largest private technology museum, with over 3,000 exhibits.
Tour Basel then head to the medieval town of Gruyères to visit a cheese factory for a tour and a special tasting. Then continue via Lake Geneva to Lyon, and board your ship.
Stay: Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the ms AmaDagio
Daily Meals Included: • Breakfast • Dinner
Day 9. Lyon, Freedom of Choice Touring, Trévoux
Take a guided tour of Lyon or enjoy a French cooking demonstration. Then relax on board as you cruise along the Saône River to Trévoux.
Day 12. Tournon, Freedom of Choice Touring, Viviers
In Tournon, choose from a wine tasting or a trip to Boucieu-le-Roi and a visit to a goat farm. Then cruise to Viviers where, after dinner, you’ll enjoy a ‘ghost walk’.
On a visit to the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, tour the castle then visit a working olive mill and farm. Later, return to Arles for an afternoon tour before a Farewell Dinner.
* Ports of call may vary based on itinerary and departure dates selected
Cabin Pricing
Ports
Amsterdam
Take a boat ride along Amsterdam’s charming canals past sturdy old houses and under quaint bridges. Visit one of the city’s superb museums housing many of the Dutch Masters’ most outstanding works or learn about Anne Frank and the city’s Jewish heritage. Or, journey into the countryside and see historic windmills and the fascinating porcelain works in Delft.
Country - Netherlands Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from port to Airport - 15kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Dam Square, Anne Frank's House, Volendam & Marken
Cologne
The city's very name bears witness to its Roman past as the town of Colonia. As well as the legacy from Roman times and the Middle Ages, particularly the world-famous cathedral, Cologne has an extremely lively arts and culture scene. And besides being a centre of carnival activity and the "capital of Rhenish joie de vivre", Cologne is also an extremely attractive trade fair centre. Open, friendly and uncomplicated: that's Cologne!
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 16kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Cologne Cathedral, Philharmonic Hall, Zoo
Koblenz
Situated in the picturesque landscape of the Rhine and Moselle and surrounded by four low mountain ranges is the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz. Its abundance of cultural monuments and historic buildings, its cosy lanes and narrow alleyways, the relaxed and happy atmosphere of its squares and river promenades make Koblenz a friendly town where guests feel right at home.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 116kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest German Corner, Empress Augusta Gardens, Theatre and Obelisk, Beethoven Memorial, Museum of Military Technology, The Wine Village
Cochem
Cochem is a town in western Germany and is the capital of the district Cochem-Zell. It is situated in the valley of the Mosel, at the foot of a hill surrounded by a feudal castle, the Reichsburg, dating from 1051. The town is surrounded by vineyards.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - <1km Distance from port to Airport - 100kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Reichsburg Castle, wine tasting, Senfmühle mustard mill, Pinnerkreuz Mountain, Mosel-Wein-Express train, Klotten Wildlife and Leisure Park, Schlagkamp-Desoye Win Museum, Senheim Sculpture Park
Rudesheim
Rudesheim sits at the entrance to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. If you come from the direction of Frankfurt or Mainz, it is one of the first major tourist towns you'll reach along the Rhine River. Rudesheim makes a good base for exploring the entire Rhine Valley, which is the home of famous wines, medieval villages and beautiful scenery.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 55kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Drosselgasse, Niederwald Monument, Rheingau Wine Museum, Asbach Brandy Distillery, Medieval Torture Museum, Bird of Prey Zoo, Jagdschloss, Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet
Speyer
The old imperial city of Speyer was a bishopric and boasts a Romanesque cathedral with six imposing towers and the finest and largest crypt in Germany. Four Holy Roman Emperors and four German Kings are buried in the impressive Royal Vault.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 98kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Great Romanesque Cathedral, City Centre
Basel
Basel is by far the art and architecture capital of Switzerland. Its 40 museums, covering an area of almost 37 km2, can be easily reached on foot, mostly by strolling through romantic lanes and alleys in the Old Town. The finest and oldest art collection is housed in the Kunstmuseum Basel, as is “Schaulager” - a space for modern art - which was opened in 2003. The Fondation Beyeler, which is well worth a visit, is famous far beyond the limits of Basel - not only for the highly acclaimed special exhibitions, but also for the impressive building designed by architect Renzo Piano.
Country - Switzerland Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 6.5kms Currency - Swiss Franc (CHF)
Places of Interest Market Square, Town Hall, Basel Zoo, Cathedral, Fondation Beyeler Art Museum, Old Town
Lyon
Two thousand years of history have left their mark on the cityscape. Lyon's rich heritage resources reflect the different eras and tell the story of the city. Lyon's listing by UNESCO as a World Heritage site gives recognition to two exceptional features: "continuity of urban development" -the listed site covers a territory of 500 hectares (1235 acres) where the entire history of the city can be seen, from the founding of the Roman city of Lugdunum. And as "an outstanding illustration of city planning over the centuries" in this continually populated and active territory.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 7kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Lyon National Opera House, Tete d'Or Park, Fourviere Hill, Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
Vienne
No other city in the Rhône Valley offers such a concentration of architectural history as Vienne. Located in a natural basin of land between the river and the hills, this site was recognised for both its strategic and aesthetic advantages by the Romans, who vastly expanded the existing village when they invaded the area in the 1st century BC.Vienne was known in Roman times as 'Vienne the Beautiful', possibly due to the fact that its riverside position on the East bank of the Rhône made it a major port for wine. The wine in this region is outstanding and Romans may have enjoyed a glass or two while watching the evening's entertainment at one of the town's two theatres.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 25kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Roman Theatre, Temple d'Auguste et Livie, Le Palais Ideal
Tournon
A pretty town with wide tree-lined avenues it is proud of its historical heritage and 11th-16th-century chateau which houses a museum of local history. To the north of the Grand Rue on Place St Julien lies Collegiale St Julien with its imposing bell tower. It serves as an example of the Italian influence on architecture in the area in the 14th-century.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport -92kms Currency - Euros (EUR)
Places of Interest Collegiale St Julien, Vallee du Doux
Viviers
Viviers consists of a lower town, where tradesmen and artisans once lived, and an upper or religious town that was the seat of a bishop during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance The upper walled town is an attractive warren of narrow cobbled streets with stone houses, a cathedral, and a castle terrace that offers spectacular views of the rooftops and river below.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 85kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest The House of the Knights, Roman Bridge, The Tower of the Michaelmas
Avignon
Take your time wandering about the streets of Avignon, The ancient streets, the courtyards of the private mansions, the renovated facades will all charm you! One of the most elegant streets is the rue Joseph Vernet, adjacent to the Calvet museum and the Requien Museum. Don't miss the Antiquaire quarter, the Place de l'Horloge or the Chemin de Ronde which will take you to the Rocher des Doms. From the top of the ramparts you can understand why the site was chosen for a fort: Avignon stands high above the immense plains of the Rhône River and is the strategic point of the whole valley.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 8kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest
Palace of the Popes, Opera House, Museum of Painting and Sculpture, Pont d'Avignon
Arles
Enjoying more than 300 days of sunshine a year Arles is regarded as the land of light. Both Picasso and Cezanne tested their artistic flair in Arles but it was Vincent Van Gogh who completely fell in love with this region and created over 200 pieces in just one year. Despite Van Gogh creating so many of masterpieces in Arles none of his works have remained in the area.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 35kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Van Gogh Foundation, Bullfighting Arena, Roman Baths
APT - Europe River Cruises Cabin Info
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Cruise line info
APT (Australian Pacific Touring)
A family - owned company since its auspicious conception in the 1920s, we began when Bill McGeary built a bus body on a tray truck after a tram strike crippled the city of Melbourne. Through Bill's son Geoff, we pioneered Australia's dynamic travel industry in the 1960's and 70's via a diverse range of modes. Such innovation continues to thrive within us today, now a multi-brand business with an extensive global portfolio of touring and cruising products still owned and controlled by the McGeary family. Now, with a third generation of the family contributing to our success, the benefits of the Company's family - style culture are increasingly apparent.
While vigorously pursuing a global vision, the unwavering focus is on delivering a life - enriching and memorable holiday experience for each and every individual that entrusts us with their valuable time and travel. Such longevity in a competitive environment coupled with a proven ability to meet the shifting expectations of the modern holidaymaker is testament to the pioneering spirit upon which the company was founded, and upon which it continues to operate and flourish today.
Ship info
APT - Europe River Cruises
APT has chartered the finest vessels on Europe's waterways the majority of which are from Amadeus Waterways. They have also added some additional ships to maximise the number of departure dates available. The additional ships include the ms Sound of Music and ms Excellence.
For details about these ships including deck plans and cabin information specific to each vessel, click on the name of the vessel above.
General outline for APT Amadeus Waterways vessels.
Unique Public Areas - Relaxation Awaits
Enjoy a choice of outdoor areas - the expansive Sun Deck, a second Lower Sun Deck and a third Teak Front Deck. Inside, as well as the Main Lounge, there is an intimate Rear Lounge with French Balconies and superb views, as well as a Library, Fitness Centre, Massage & Beauty Salon, Boutique Shop, 24-hour Reception Area, complimentary bicycles for on-shore exploration and an elevator for easy movement between levels.
Innovative Suites - Providing a Peaceful Sleep Most Suites feature French Balconies and all of them contain a deluxe queen size bed, full ensuite bathroom, sitting area, safe, modern Infotainment System, a spacious cupboard and personally-controlled air-conditioning. And tranquillity is guaranteed, as no Suite is located directly over the engine.
Dine in Style The cuisine on board is wonderful, the service intuitive and the riverside views are easily accessible thanks to floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
Public Areas
Large sun deck, lower sun deck, and a third teak front deck
Modern Fitness Centre
Massage and Beauty Salon
Complimentary bicycles on board
Entertainment and lecture lounge
Rear French Balcony Lounge
Stylish panaorama restaurant
Shop and peaceful library
Elevator to most suites
24-hour front desk
In-Suite Facilities
French Balconies in 82% of suites
Deluxe Queen-size beds
Flat-screen infotainment system wityh internet, TV, movies and music
Full ensuite bathroom
Ample cupboard space, a safe and individual climate control
Room service to Cat. A and Owner's Suites, laundry service to all suites
Our River Ship Fleet's Details
Because we know the journey is as important as the destination.
All spacious French Balconies on Cello and Violin Decks
ms Amadolce - launch 2009
ms Amalyra - launch 2009
ms Amadante - launch 2008
ms Amacello - launched 2008
ms Amalegro - launched 2007
ms Amadagio - launched 2006
Technical Data
Length: 110 m
Width: 11.6 m
Cabins: 75
Passengers: 150
Crew: 43
Home Port: Basel
Note: Deck plans for ships vary slightly.
General outline for ms Sound of Music
The ms Sound of Music coasts Europe's waters in the same refined style as APT's fleet. With its French Balconies and a superb interior, it's part of the family.
Launched in 2006, the ms Sound of Music offers a world-class cruising experience. Though the ship could accommodate up to 160 passengers, APT opted for comfort and superior space, settling on 32 less people than possible, giving you greater floorspace per passenger.
Public Areas
Spacious Panorama Lounge
Elegant Budapest Restaurant
Huge Wellness and Spa Area
Turkish Bath and Solarium
Massage and Beauty Parlour
Fitness Centre
A Peaceful Library
Four Outside Deck Areas
Internet Access
High Staff to Passenger Ratio
Complimentary Bikes On Board for On-Shore Exploration
Nightly Entertainment Onboard
In-Suite Facilities
Private All-Weather French Balcony Suites on Violin Deck
Full Ensuite Bathrooms
Plush Cosy Bedding
In-Suite Television and Movies
Laundry Service Available
Room Service to Cat. A Suites
Stylish Public Areas
Over a drink, enjoy sweeping views in the Panorama Lounge, take a book from the library to the Sun Deck or indulge at the spacious Spa, with Turkish baths, steam room and a range of massage and beauty treatments.
Luxurious Suites
All suites on the ms Sound of Music are beautifully appointed and offer world-class facilities. In many suites are innovative French Balconies, while plush bedding, a closet, fully-equipped ensuite bathroom and a separate desk area round out your lavish home-away-from home.
Passenger accommodation is located over three decks and cabin sizes vary from 123 square feet on the lowest deck to 161- 193 square feet on the two higher decks. They are beautifully appointed and offer every facility you would expect from a first class hotel. The lower deck (Mosel) cabins are double-bedded and have a large window. The middle deck (Rhine) cabins have twin beds and an extra large window, some of which can be opened. The top deck (Danube) cabins have twin or double beds and offer French balconies. Cabins on this deck are also offered as suites that occupy two inter-connecting cabins, consisting of a bedroom and sitting room.
Elegant On-Board Dining
Created with fresh local produce, breakfast consists of a buffet, while lunch comprises a three-course meal and a buffet. Dinner is a four-course affair with local wine included. Room service is available on Violin Deck.
Designed to meet the exacting demands of today's modern traveller, the ms Excellence exudes a level of comfort and class that superbly complements the beauty of Europe's famed landscapes.
Public Areas
Outdoor sun deck with cosy lounge chairs and 360o views
Verdi's Bar and Lounge - open late
Fine dining and riverside views in bellini's restaurant
Complimentary bikes on board
Spacious entertainment lounge
A peaceful library
Elevator to upper and middle decks
Boutique on-board shop
24-hour reception
In-Suite Facilities
All-weather private French Balcony in over 90% of suites
Big ensuite bathrooms with ample storage space and hairdryer
Safe, minibar, phone and flat-screen tv
Comfortable beds and sitting area
Laundry service available
Bathtub, private balconies and room service in Owners' Suites
Room service to Cat. A suites
Living up to its Name - the ms Excellence
2006 saw the inaugural voyage of the ms Excellence, a thoughtfully designed ship taking you through the heart of Europe in sophistication and style. A high staff to guest ratio means all your on-board needs are met, while the ship's boutique size ensures an intimate environment and allows it to dock closer to Europe's attractions than was once thought possible.
Impeccably Presented Public Areas Lose yourself in the ever-changing landscapes outside the floor to ceiling windows of the opulent Verdi's Bar and Lounge. Feel the river breeze and the warmth of the sun atop the Sun Deck or, when the weather isn't ideal, unwind in the Library or the Sun Deck's unique, glassed-in Sky Lounge.
Immerse Yourself in a Luxurious Suite Each Suite contains an unusually large ensuite bathroom and over 90% of them boast an all-weather French Balcony. Plush bedding, a flat-screen TV, sitting area, minibar and safe complete the luxury river cruising experience.
Elegant On-Board Dining
All meals are created from fresh local ingredients and served in the ship's spacious yet intimate Bellini's Restaurant. Dinner is a five-course á la carte indulgence accompanied by fine local wine and gracious service.
Technical Data
Launched 2006
Length: 110 m
Width: 11.4 m
Suite Size: 12 sq m - 8 sq m
Max. Passengers: 142
Crew: 31
Cabins: 71
Home Country: Holland
