Exclusive Wine Cruise Colors of Provence (Wine Cruise) Apr 17 - 24, 2025

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Hosted by Sally & Fred Schweiger, Founders, Schweiger Vineyards, St. Helena, CA

Born and raised on one of the very last farms in San Francisco, a young Fred Schweiger helped care for his grandparents’ vineyard as a boy. He purchased the Spring Mountain acreage, at a 2000’ elevation, in 1961 at the age of 19.

Marriage, children, a successful construction company, and several years later, he and his wife, Sally, began a long-held dream: to clear and plant the family owned Spring Mountain property into vineyard in 1979. The Schweiger Estate was designed and developed by Fred and Sally with the help of family, with their first official harvest in 1984.

Today the Schweigers are proud to be the longest property owners in the esteemed Spring Mountain AVA in the legendary Napa Valley, with ownership spanning four generations to live and work on the family estate. Their UC Davis-educated son Andy Schweiger serves as winemaker, crafting fine Bordeaux varietals, most notably Cabernet Sauvignon, and their signature blend called Dedication.

You’re invited! Join the Schweigers on this special voyage up the Rhone River, from Mediterranean Provence north to the lush hillside vineyards of the Rhone Valley into Lyon. We’ll explore the wine, cuisine, villages and cities of southeastern France.

Q&A With Sally & Fred Schweiger

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

We love interacting with new and old friends, sharing our enthusiasm of wine. Our vineyard and winery started with us as a family clearing heavily forested land, planting and taking a hand of approach taking care of all the vines. In 1994 we began crafting fine wines with our son as our winemaker. We are an authentic family legacy working together to craft sustainable root to glass wines, creating memorable experiences, and nurture relationships.

Tell us something special about yourself that would make someone unfamiliar with you want to travel with you on this river cruise?

We make wine fun as we present our interactive seminars sharing our story about Schweiger, as well as learning together about new wines we are introduced to along the cruise.

What was your “Aha Moment” when you fell in love with wine?

We sold all the grapes we harvested from our vineyard the first 10 years. The wineries we sold to invited us to taste the wines they made from our grapes the following winter. They loved the wines made from our fruit and so did we!

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

We so look forward to experience the solitude of Normandy. So exciting to think we will be there on Easter Sunday.

What is something fun/unique you wish to share—perhaps something nobody knows until now?

We were invited to have our wines served at an event honoring the Metal of Honor recipients at the Reagan Library. It was so exciting to be seated with 2000 guests around Air Force One, from the Reagan era, with the only wines served being Schweiger. The table setting was unbelievable with the reflection of Schweiger Cabernet on the silver charger plates. The people we visited with have left a lasting effect on our lives.

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

Yosemite and The Great Barrier Reef – the wonders of God’s workmanship.

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

If we were stranded on a desert island we would like a well-aged Methuselah (6L) of Schweiger Cabernet Sauvignon, as Cabernet is considered the king of red wine and is always very good.

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 Lyon to Avignon. 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.

Overview


7-night Cruise

Cruise From: Arles to Lyon

Delight all your senses with world-class art and architecture, awe-inspiring scenery, legendary history, sumptuous cuisine and fine wine on a journey from Barcelona through the heart of Provence and ending in Paris. Trace the steps of famous artists as in Barcelona, where Anton Gaudi’s magnificent legacy and creative imagination can be seen everywhere; walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles as you live out the “Artist’s Experience”; and visit Carrières de Lumières, an impressive underground art show held at a limestone quarry where you’ll be surrounded by colour and light from every angle at this stunning visual exhibit, which brings famous paintings to life as they are projected against the rock faces of the quarry. Become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles; learn how to pair chocolate with wine; and discover how olives turn into the Mediterranean’s nectar, olive oil. Walk through legendary vineyards witnessing the time-honoured traditions of winemakers and participate in tastings of vintages, such as Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône.

COUNTRIES:

RIVERS:

At A Glance

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 Limited Edition 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.
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Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Included Features


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
  • Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
  • Desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

  • Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sun deck whirlpool 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
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
  • 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

Dates & Prices

EMBARK April 17
7-NIGHT CRUISEArlesLyon
INCLUDES FLIGHTS & TRANSFERS*
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 3 NIGHTS BARCELONA PRE-CRUISE AND 3 NIGHTS PARIS POST-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
160 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
160 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £230 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category CB
French Balcony
Violin Deck
155 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £768 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category CA
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,076 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category BB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,538 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category BA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
210 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,692 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category AB
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,845 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Cello Deck
Category AA
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
235 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,999 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck
350 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £2,999 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, fares & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise fare)£178 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of per person double occupancy fare; Suites 100% of per person double occupancy fare. Please see terms below for details.

Single Supplement for LandA single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.

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 fly-cruise fares are per person, based on double occupancy of an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Rates include port charges, group overseas transfers (between airport and ship) and return economy flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick or Manchester Airport. Flights from selected regional UK gateways are available from a £75pp supplement. Flight schedules and airlines used are fully at the discretion of AmaWaterways and timings will be confirmed at the time of flight booking confirmation. Requests for alternative flights may incur a supplement. Flight costs are based on embarkation and disembarkation points, supplements may occur when purchasing land packages if different gateways are required. Any offers shown are valid on select sailings only and are combinable with all past guest programmes, but not combinable with any other offers or promotions. Solo guests must pay an additional solo supplement before receiving any savings unless stated otherwise. Fares and offers are capacity controlled, subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Land programmes and gratuities are additional. Other restrictions may apply. Please see our brochure or website for full Terms & Conditions. Cruise Only Fares are available on request.

AmaKristina

This 156-passenger vessel boasts spacious staterooms with our exclusive Twin Balconies, a choice of dining venues, a heated pool with swim-up bar, complimentary Wi-Fi on board and more.Learn more

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