Matching current demand for all things "Beauty and the Beast" with the popularity of its river cruises in partnership with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney is preparing for special themed sailings in 2018. Sailings will range from those geared to families to adult exclusives.
"For 2018, we looked to find exciting new ways to make our incredibly popular river cruises even more enticing to every type of traveler," said Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney, in a press release.
"By increasing the number of special themed sailings along the Rhine and Danube rivers we now offer more choices than ever for our guests. Whether you're looking to explore the storybook setting of 'Beauty and the Beast,' wine and dine on local specialties during interactive epicurean workshops, stroll charming European Christmas Markets or celebrate during rousing Oktoberfest festivities, Adventures by Disney has carefully crafted personalized vacation experiences to suit your interests and tastes."
Just as the Disney Cruise Line has begun presenting ocean theme cruises like "Star Wars" Day at Sea or preparing for the upcoming Marvel Day at Sea, its sister adventure travel brand is continuing the trend.
Family-friendly "Beauty and the Beast" voyages will sail on the Rhine aboard the AmaKristina. During 8-day, 7-night cruises, France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands will be featured. Shoreside activity highlights will include toboggan riding, Black Forest hiking, visiting Heidelberg Castle and tasting wine in a medieval cave.
[READMORE]READ MORE: On The Danube With Disney[/READMORE]
Six sailings will specifically showcase the destination inspiration behind the classic animated film and soon-to-be live-action remake. Tours will head to the French village of Riquewihr, similar to main character Belle's own province. Naturally, both cinematic movie versions will also be screened onboard, and a themed dinner will additionally help set the stage for other culinary experiences.
Plus, on the Rhine, chefs and sommeliers will host twice as many food and wine Disney and AmaWaterways river cruises in 2018 with two adults-only departures in the fall. Epicurean experiences will be featured onboard and off with wine tasting, gourmet demos, workshops, culinary excursions, regional beer and wine pairings, a French patisserie course and cocktail classes.
In fact, the culinary cruises take their own inspiration from the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival from the shoreside theme parks.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Do More Disney River Cruises Foreshadow Dedicated Cruise Line?[/READMORE]
Besides cruises along the Rhine, Disney will also return to the Danube with six more summer and holiday sailings on the AmaViola. Most will be for all ages, but one in September will be just for adults newly tailored to Oktoberfest opportunities in Germany. Altogether, the 8-day, 7-night cruises will make stops in Austria, Slovakia and Hungary in addition to Germany. Specific experiences will include touring "The Sound of Music" movie locations in Salzburg and Devin Castle in Bratislava, as well as learning Austrian folk dancing in Melk.
"AmaWaterways is excited to expand our relationship with Adventures by Disney and looks forward to welcoming the family travel market to some of Europe's most unforgettable river cruise destinations in 2018," said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, in a press release.
"A river cruise with AmaWaterways and Adventures by Disney gives families the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Europe's most breathtaking destinations, and children, parents and grandparents will have meaningful and magical experiences together!"
The AwaWaterways product is ideally suited to the Adventures by Disney partnership as the aforementioned riverboats sport connecting cabins and suites perfect for multiple generations and up to three or four people each. The collaboration also extends to customization of onboard venues and activities for children, teens and adults alike.
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