Yes, the onboard experience varies slightly depending on your cruise type. On Festive Delights cruises, you'll enjoy more onboard holiday activities such as tree trimming and gingerbread house decorating. Christmas Markets cruises focus more on the shore excursions to the markets, but still offer festive onboard atmosphere and holiday traditions.

On Christmas Markets cruises, you'll typically have 2-4 hours at each market, depending on the port schedule. Many markets are near city centers, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas too. Some evenings, the ship remains docked late so you can experience the markets illuminated after dark.

While AmaWaterways doesn't cover shipping costs, our staff can recommend reliable local shipping services at various ports. Many Christmas Markets vendors also offer shipping services. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers lost or damaged items if you plan to ship valuable souvenirs.

Christmas Markets typically open in late November (around November 25th) and close shortly after Christmas, though some remain open through January 6th. Our Christmas Markets cruises are scheduled to coincide with market openings. If you're concerned about specific dates, please contact our cruise specialists who can verify market schedules for your itinerary.

Christmas Markets offer a variety of seasonal specialties including glühwein (mulled wine), lebkuchen (gingerbread), stollen (fruit bread), bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and various regional treats. Each market features unique specialties reflecting local culinary traditions, making food tasting a highlight of the experience.

Our special Christmas dinner includes traditional holiday favorites with European flair, featuring dishes like roast turkey or goose, seasonal vegetables, festive desserts, and fine wines. The dining room is decorated for the occasion, and there's often special entertainment. The specific menu varies by ship and destination but always creates a memorable holiday celebration.

Yes, attending Christmas services is possible on most itineraries. Our staff can provide information on nearby churches and service times. For Catholic midnight Mass or Protestant services, transportation may be arranged depending on the port location. Please inquire with the Cruise Manager once onboard about specific arrangements for your sailing.