River-Cruises

Exclusive Wine Cruise PROVENCE & SPAIN NOVEMBER 9-16, 2017

Matthew_Meyer

Hosted by Matthew Meyer, Vice President & Owner
The Williamsburg Winery, Williamsburg, VA

Originally creating wines in Napa, Matthew Meyer arrived in Virginia in 2002 as The Williamsburg Winery’s new winemaker. He envisioned Virginia as the next big wine region in America. Now, as Executive Vice President and Winemaker, Matthew produces wines that showcase Virginia’s unique terroir, such as the Trianon, the Viognier, the Barrel-Aged Seyval Blanc, the Estate-Grown Traminette and the Adagio. Matthew has received many international and national accolades including Decanter’s Top Wines of the World seven years in a row.

BOOK NOW TO SAVE UP TO $1,500 OFF
PER STATEROOM

Q&A With Matthew Meyer

Why do you believe you are the right wine host for this cruise? Share your credentials and passion for wine.

From birth I was collecting wines (well, my father was helping of course) and he loved his Burgundy wines. From collector and avid imbiber it was just a short leap to going to UC Davis, arguably the best wine school in the world. After UC Davis where I obtained a degree in both winemaking and viticulture I descended upon Napa where I worked at some of the most prestigious wineries, including Heitz Wine cellars where I really learned the business. After Napa I went to Virginia where we make a more old world style wine with our own new world twist. The wines are elegant with balance and structure making them excellent food wines. My father was one of the last great imbibers and my mother is the best chef on the planet…as most mothers are I suppose. So you wrap all that history and passion, step onto a beautiful ship on the Rhone River and I’m fairly certain my joy will be contagious.

Oh, and I forgot to mention I am a Chaine Des Rotisseurs member as well…just saying!

How do you stand out from our other incredible wine hosts?

I truly enjoy meeting people and being social. I learned from my father how to be a good teacher and to respect everyone and never judge a book by its cover. When my wife Elena and I are on the cruise we like to interact and meet everyone. We are never too busy to talk and answer questions and can always be interrupted.

How did you first fall in love with wine?

Wines have been part of my life growing up so I have had thousands of “aha moments”. I will say that many of my “aha moments” have been with inexpensive wines. If more people drank with their heart and not what they see on a label they would find some truly magical wines, and probably save a little bit of cash as well!

What are you most looking forward to on your river cruise?

What I really enjoy is when Elena and I first walk on board holding hands and we take a breath and look around and just absorb the feeling. The first initial excitement of seeing the ship and having all my senses peeked, well that’s just wonderful from the get go. I could go on for awhile about the all the wonderful food, excursions, people, watching the scenery pass by as we sip some bubbles, but you said only one thing so I won’t mention the other stuff.

What is something fun/unique you wish to share?

Since it is in my nature to want to make people happy I like to give presents to people. I’m one of those people that truly like to give then to receive. Because of this on many seminars or discussions I like to have fun and give things to people. Having people answer questions and interact with other guests make for a fun time and on this cruise it won’t be different. One lucky couple will receive a very nice package to our winery where we have 400 acres, two restaurants and a very special 28 room European Inn with a pool, bar and spa. Nobody knew that until now.

What is one of the most interesting places you have traveled to?

My father felt very strongly that his children learn many different cultures and to be open to the world. There are just too many beautiful places on this world to pick just one. I will say in Pakistan on the Khyber Pass going into Afghanistan was pretty cool. Here you are entirely out of your element with a completely different culture and definitely a sense of extreme danger if you mess up. I like the idea of truly adventurous travel and the fact I didn’t mess up because I am still alive.

If you were stranded along on a desert island and could only have one bottle of wine, what would it be and why?

Champagne, without hesitation! To me champagne is an everyday occasion, not something for special occasions. I have converted many people to this philosophy and will continue to spread the good word. There are so many wonderful things about champagne that I just feel enlightened when I drink it.

Expertly Curated WINE EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to uncork the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.

About the Wine Region – The Rhône

Besides providing captivating views of medieval towns and colorful landscapes, the Rhône River connects the dots between thousands of vineyards from Avignon to Lyon. Our Colors of Provence itinerary takes you through this prized wine-producing region in southeastern France, known across the globe as the Rhône Valley. You’ll also get to savor some delightful wines from the Beaujolais region just to the north, where the Rhône meets the Saône. The valley traces the path of the river for almost 150 miles, hypnotizing travelers with grape-covered vines gripping its steep sides. Since it’s so large, the climate varies greatly from north to south as does the soil and wine quality. Thus, the Rhône is divided at the town of Valence into two worlds of wine: the Northern Rhône and the Southern Rhône.

Itinerary Overview PROVENCE & SPAIN (WINE CRUISE)

7-NIGHT CRUISE
CRUISE FROM : Arles to Lyon
Cruise through France’s legendary wine growing regions, home to such famous vintages as Beaujolais and Côte du Rhône. Enjoy wine tastings at local vintners, marvel at ancient Roman ruins, stroll through medieval villages and shop for Provencal crafts. Your itinerary includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Avignon as well as Arles, the city where Vincent Van Gogh spent much of his life.
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Rhone

At A Glance PROVENCE & SPAIN (WINE CRUISE)

On our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
  • Arles to Lyon
Expand All
Collapse All

Included Features PROVENCE & SPAIN (WINE CRUISE)

REQUEST A QUOTE
7-NIGHT CRUISE

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
  • Computer for internet access
  • Entertainment-On-Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
  • Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
  • Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
  • Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
  • Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
  • All onboard dining in a variety of venues
  • Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
  • The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
  • La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
  • Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
  • Immersive tours in every destination
  • Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
  • Bike tours and hikes
  • Special Interest Tours
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Personal headset for easy exploration
  • Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
Europe River Cruises

Dates & Prices

REQUEST A QUOTE
EMBARK November 9
7-NIGHT CRUISEArlesLyon
Save $750 Per Person
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 3 NIGHTS BARCELONA PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS PARIS POST-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
GET QUOTE
Category D
Fixed Windows
ADDITIONAL $299 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
GET QUOTE
Category C
French Balcony
ADDITIONAL $899 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
GET QUOTE
Category B
French Balcony
ADDITIONAL $1,099 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
GET QUOTE
Category A
French Balcony
ADDITIONAL $1,199 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
GET QUOTE
Suite
French Balcony
ADDITIONAL $2,399 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
GET QUOTE
Notes:
ImportantDates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges not included in cruise price$168 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of twin price; Suites 100% of twin price. Please see terms below for details.

Single Supplement for Land$960 per person.

BeddingPlease select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).
Terms & Conditions:

All rates are per person for cruise only, based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offer is valid on select sailings only and applicable to new bookings only. Unless explicitly stated that single supplement is waived, solo travelers in a double occupancy stateroom must pay an additional single supplement amount before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Port charges, land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. CST#2065452-40.

Ship

REQUEST A QUOTE
AmaCello
This spectacular 146-passenger ship features spacious staterooms, most with French Balconies, whirlpool, Internet/WiFi access and more.Learn more

Gallery

REQUEST A QUOTE
No More Entries

Experience More Connections

EXPLORE MORE