AmaWaterways recently published an article about how November sailings are one of the company’s best kept secrets. It’s true, when most people are looking to plan a river cruise they think of sailing in the spring or summer, and maybe even later in the year for the Christmas markets, but late autumn is often overlooked. Why is that?
It’s no secret that we love sailing in November – Ralph called his 2019 November cruise one of the most beautiful trips he’s ever taken, and my 2022 river cruise through Germany at the beginning of November provided postcard worthy views.
Sailing in the late fall also has a number of advantages, from lower airfare and cruise fares on some sailings to smaller crowd sizes (both at airports and in port). We want to share this secret with you all so that you can take advantage of the slower season and get the most of your river cruise experience.
Here is a sample of AmaWaterways’ November offerings:
Essence of Burgundy & Provence – 7-nights from Chalon-sur-Saone to Arles
We wrote a few weeks ago about AmaWaterways’ itinerary lineup in France and how the Rhone is one of our current favorite rivers to sail. Though France is lovely in the summer, we love sailing in autumn. We prefer the cooler temperatures for bike tours, which Ama offers every day on this itinerary. Plus, the majority of days on this itinerary call on multiple ports, meaning that there will be plenty of time for scenic sailing to enjoy the fall landscape. This itinerary is also a great choice for food and wine lovers, with many different wine and food based excursions, and a stop in France’s “Culinary Capital,” Lyon.
2023 departure dates: November 2, November 9
Enticing Douro – 7-nights roundtrip from Porto
Scenic cruising through the vineyard-clad hills of the Douro River Valley in the fall sounds absolutely beautiful. Portugal can be a little more low-key than some of the other destinations on this list. That, combined with its gentle climate, provides a great getaway from the dropping temperatures and stress of home. Ama will take guests on this itinerary to multiple sites of historical and cultural significance in the region, as well as to wine tastings and traditional dinners. One of the highlights of this trip is a visit to Salamanca, one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
2023 departure dates: November 4; November 11; November 18 (Thanksgiving sailing); November 25
Romantic Danube: A Taste of the Christmas Markets from Vilshofen to Budapest
Visit the renowned Christmas Markets of Budapest and Vienna in the last week of November, before most of the crowds have arrived. This itinerary has many other highlights like traveling through the Wachau Valley by bike, a visit to Cesky Krumlov and more. This specific sailing also takes place on Thanksgiving. We love spending holidays on ships because they are so much easier than spending them at home. There is no cleanup (or even setup), and you are able to make incredible memories that you wouldn’t be able to at home. This sailing is my favorite on the list, just because it seems like such a wonderful precursor to Christmas.
2023 departure date: November 20
Magna on the Danube – 7-nights from Budapest to Vilshofen
This itinerary features the same highlights as above on an extremely unique river cruise vessel. AmaMagna is a double-width river ship with four dining venues, added wellness amenities, and So. Much. Extra. Space. This really is the perfect ship, with something for everyone, as it features a movie theater, expansive lounge and two libraries, and even a pickleball court.
2023 departures dates – November 5; November 12; November 19 (Thanksgiving sailing); November 26
Charms of the Mekong – 7-nights from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap
November is a great time to visit Southeast Asia, as the temperatures are pretty ideal (around 75F) and the humidity is reduced compared to the rest of the year. This itinerary is one of our favorites of all time because it provides such a different experience than most other river cruises. Guests have the chance to be treated to special blessings by Buddhist monks, witness artisans creating amazing products by hand, and learn about the rich culture and heritage of the region.
2023 departure dates – November 13; November 27
AmaWaterways offers a multitude of itineraries in November providing the perfect chance to get away and relax before (or during) the holidays. So, are you ready to kick your feet back and sail away?
Dorothy Tyndell says
Is any trip with airfare included in November?