As the leaves begin to fall in Europe’s storybook towns and the scent of mulled wine wafts through cobbled streets, hearts begin to fill with the joy of the Christmas season. There is no better way to immerse yourself in this seasonal wonder than aboard an AmaWaterways Festive Delights river cruise – a journey where timeless holiday traditions, culinary delights, unrivaled service and the spirit of celebration come together in perfect harmony.

Unwrap the Festive Delights Difference

Newly available on several European rivers, AmaWaterways’ Festive Delights itineraries offer an unforgettable holiday experience, blending the joy of the season with the elegance and ease of cruising through multiple destinations. From mid-November through the New Year, our European ships transform into floating winter wonderlands, adorned with twinkling lights, enchanting snow globes and the laughter of kindred spirits.

On board, guests are welcomed to participate in familiar holiday activities. Imagine trimming one of the ship’s Christmas trees alongside newfound friends, decorating gingerbread cookies and singing carols as the riverbanks glide by in a blur of festive lights. Every detail is designed to evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the season, with typical holiday preparations such as cooking and cleaning all taken care of for you.

Benefits of River Cruising in November and Late December

While river cruising with AmaWaterways is a pleasure year-round, venturing to Europe in November offers unique opportunities unavailable at any other time of year. From seasonally exclusive events to stunning autumnal foliage and cities adorned in Christmastime splendor, November truly is a hidden gem of river cruising. In addition, traveling outside of the peak Christmas rush in mid-December and leading up to the holiday is an added benefit as you will often experience reduced crowds at museums, major landmarks and even in town squares.

Compared to springtime and summertime, November cruises and airfare are also typically offered at some of the lowest rates of the year, making river cruising more accessible for the entire family. Enjoy more intimate excursions and beautiful landscapes in transition, pre- and post-Christmas holiday stalls with treats like warm apple beignets, mulled wine and crispy potato pancakes, children’s carousels and ice-skating rinks. 

Itineraries that Sparkle with Tradition

AmaWaterways’ Festive Delights cruises span some of Europe’s most iconic rivers and destinations. New for 2025, the 7-night Taste of Bordeaux (Festive Delights) itinerary offers you the rare chance to glide along France’s Garonne and Dordogne rivers at a magical time of year. Explore a more subtle approach to Christmastime on shore admiring canopies of lights strung across streets and Christmas trees of every fashion. Sample the famed Left and Right Bank wines for which Bordeaux is renowned in destinations such as Saint Émilion and Cadillac while toasting the season amongst loved ones and new friends. 

If you prefer another off-the-beaten-path itinerary in France, AmaWaterways’ Colors of Provence (Festive Delights) departures showcase art, architecture and delicious cuisine along the idyllic Rhône River with the enchantment of cities like Lyon – France’s “Culinary Capital” – and Avignon dressed up in their Christmas finest. 

On the Dutch & Belgian Waterways, cruise roundtrip from Amsterdam, a city where most shops, restaurants and museums remain open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. AmaWaterways’ 7-night Best of Holland & Belgium (Festive Delights) itinerary provides unique opportunities to see castles in cities like Utrecht and Ghent, experience the holiday delights and delicacies in Antwerp, and so much more. 

If you prefer slightly milder winter temperatures, a more intimate ship welcoming just 102 guests and a greater focus on food and wine, the 7-night Enticing Douro (Festive Delights) itinerary includes daytime cruising to delight in the breathtaking landscapes of the Douro River Valley as well as two opportunities to indulge in authentic Portuguese cuisine and Port wine at local wine estates. Plus, learn more about Portuguese holiday traditions on board.

New Year’s Departures

For those looking for additional revelry, a handful of Festive Delights sailings cruise through December 31st, enabling you to ring in the New Year in a new city and amongst like-minded fellow cruisers. This is an incredible opportunity to attend an intimate celebration with AmaWaterways’ elegant New Year’s Eve gala – no planning required! Enjoy special decorations in the Main Lounge, hours of music and dancing, late-night snacks and a champagne countdown leading up to midnight. Depending on your itinerary, departure date and weather, you may even have the good fortune of spotting local fireworks or drone shows that light up the night sky. 

The Gift of Travel

This holiday season, give yourself or your loved ones the ultimate gift: a journey that captures the true spirit of Christmas. With AmaWaterways’ Festive Delights river cruises, you’ll discover that the magic of the season is not just in the destinations, but in the moments of joy, connection and wonder that unfold along the way.

Let the rivers of Europe carry you into the heart of the holidays.