A child’s first Christmas is always special. And so it is with a ship’s first Christmas.
Our AmaSonata is the newest member of our European fleet. She debuted in April and is now overflowing with holiday spirit. She’s sailing a Magnificent Christmas cruise that began in Budapest and ends in Amsterdam on New Year’s Eve.
Passengers on this special cruise have come from as far away as South Africa, Australia and Chile. They’ve arrived to the warmest of welcomes. AmaSonata is bedecked and bedazzled. Christmas trees, lights, garland and shiny red and gold ornaments have made this already-beautiful ship even lovelier!
Elegant wreaths adorn stateroom doors. Gingerbread houses brighten up every corner. Not even the elevators have escaped the handiwork of the Christmas elves on board.
Throughout the year, our river cruises immerse passengers in the culture, traditions and heritage of Europe. At this time of year, passengers experience Christmas traditions first-hand as well.
Christmas markets are bustling in villages, towns and grand cities. Cobblestone lanes and imperial avenues are aglow with decorations, lights and trees. Some elaborate; some simple. But all imparting the special warmth and hospitality of the season.
For AmaSonata passengers, that warmth and hospitality begins on board. Our wonderful crew members are spending their first Christmas together. They’ve already become a family. And they’re making this a most memorable holiday for families on board. They’re on hand with a welcoming cup of gluhwein or hot chocolate after a chilly excursion. They’re lending a hand to St. Nicholas as he fill guests’ shoes (left outside each door) with goodies.
Tree-trimming, games, caroling, and a roast turkey Christmas feast are still in store for our passengers. I won’t give away any more surprises.
Excitement will build up again as the new year approaches. Guests will countdown to midnight with a champagne toast; watch a spectacular Amsterdam fireworks show from the Sun Deck and then dance to a D.J.
The glow of this first Christmas season will not soon fade for the AmaSonata. We wish all sailing aboard, all AmaWaterways guests, past and present and all of you, one thing: the warmest of Christmas wishes from our family to yours.
We look forward to seeing all of you again in the New Year!