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CRUISE THE RHINE RIVER
WITH BURT WOLF

AND HELP SUPPORT PUBLIC TELEVISION

CRUISE PRICED FROM $3,420 TO $4,131 PER PERSON (plus airfare)
DEPART U.S. 28TH NOVEMBER 2012 – RETURN 6TH DECEMBER 2012
ADD AN OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT PRE-CRUISE TOUR IN ZÜRICH
AND/OR AN OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT PRE-CRUISE IN LUCERNE

Burt Wolf, the host of the public television series Travels & Traditions, invites you to join him on a 7-night Rhine River Cruise beginning in Basel, Switzerland and continuing to the Black Forest region, the medieval town of Strasbourg, France, the university city of Heidelberg, and historic Cologne with its Cathedral and Christmas markets. The cruise ends in Amsterdam, which will be in the middle of its holiday celebration.

BURT WILL BE YOUR ON-BOARD HOST THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE CRUISE

During our trip, Burt will offer a series of private on-board tastings of the regional wines, beers, liquors and foods related to the area through which we cruise. In addition, Burt will talk about European Architecture, the History of Wine, and the History of Chocolate. This is a unique opportunity to travel with Burt, see some of Europe’s most fascinating cities, and experience the places where he films his television programs.

BURT WOLF

Since 1982, Burt has written and produced over 4,000 segments for Cable News Network (CNN), 800 segments for ABC (the American Broadcasting Company), 125 half-hour programs for the travel division of The Discovery Channel, and 300 half hours for Public Broadcasting. He has been nominated for two Cable Ace Awards and a national Emmy in connection with culture and history.

RHINE RIVER CRUISE ITINERARY

Burt Wolf Danube Cruise 2012 Map

CRUISE DAY 1 –
WEDNESDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2012
DEPART U.S. FOR ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND


CRUISE DAY 2 –
THURSDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2012
ARRIVE ZÜRICH - TRANSFER TO BASEL & BOARD SHIP

Arrive in Switzerland and transfer to Basel to board our ship. This evening we will meet our fellow passengers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception followed by dinner. (D)

CRUISE DAY 3 –
FRIDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2012
BREISACH, GERMANY – COLMAR, FRANCE
or FREIBURG, GERMANY

Today we can choose between a city tour of Colmar or a tour through the Black Forest region of Germany. On the Black Forest tour, we will drive through a forested area with examples of traditional architecture. The tour will include a stop at a Cuckoo Clock factory and the Christmas Markets of Freiburg. Alternatively, you can travel to medieval Colmar, situated along the Alsatian Wine Route. During the city tour, you’ll see the remarkable half-timber framed houses and explore the German-influenced Old Quarter and the Launch River. You will also enjoy a wine tasting. Colmar is beautifully decorated with stunning illuminations during the Advent period and offers five Christmas Markets. Tonight, the ship set sails for Strasbourg, France. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 4 – SATURDAY 1 DECEMBER 2012 * STRASBOURG, FRANCE – SPEYER, GERMANY

Capital and principal city of the Alsace region in northeastern France, Strasbourg is situated on the Ill River, where it flows into the Rhine on the border with Germany. Enjoy a canal cruise, revealing the picturesque town, known for its black and white timber-framed buildings, covered bridges and medieval watch towers. Then take a tour through this charming town. See the European Parliament and visit the “La Petite France” district, where we will see the sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock. We will also visit Strasbourg’s famous Christmas market. Dating back to the 16th century, the market is the oldest in France, and features hundreds of stands selling arts and crafts, decorations and holiday treats. A guided bicycle tour is also available (capacity controlled). Depart at lunchtime for Speyer, where our Cruise Manager will lead a walking tour after dinner. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 5 – SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER 2012 * SPEYER – HEIDELBERG - WORMS

Depart from Speyer for our excursion to Heidelberg, where we will visit the red-walled Castle, with its Great Vat, a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask and beautiful views of the Neckar Valley and Heidelberg below. Return to the ship at Worms, one of Germany’s oldest cities. The city is known for its many excellent examples of Romanesque architecture, including the majestic 12th-century St. Peter’s Cathedral. During our tour, visit the impressive monument to Martin Luther and other leaders of the Reformation along the “Luther Trail.” We will also see the 11th-century “Heiliger Sand,” one of the largest and oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe. During your free time, visit Worms’ Christmas Markets. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 6 – MONDAY 3 DECEMBER 2012 * RÜDESHEIM – RHINE CASTLES – KOBLENZ

This morning, we arrive in Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Explore the Drosselgasse, a narrow alley lined with wine taverns and restaurants. We will enjoy a wine tasting at a local vintner followed by a visit to the Christmas Markets where we will find more than 120 stands from 12 nations. This afternoon, our ship departs for Koblenz. We will cruise through the Rhine Gorge, the most beautiful stretch of the river, passing castle after castle. Arrive in Koblenz late this afternoon. Our Cruise Manager will lead a walking tour through this charming town. The ship moors overnight in Koblenz. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 7 – TUESDAY 4 DECEMBER 2012 * KOBLENZ - COLOGNE

This morning, our ship cruises to Cologne where we will take a walking tour through the old part of the city and visit the fabled 13th-century Gothic Cathedral. During your free time, return to the cathedral or browse through the city’s most impressive Christmas Market. The ship departs tonight for Amsterdam. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 8 – WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER 2012 * AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND

Admire beautiful 17th century homes, charming churches and 16th century merchant houses on a guided canal boat tour. Then enjoy a motor coach tour of Amsterdam, including a photo stop at the Rembrandt Windmill, followed by free time in Amsterdam. This evening will be our Gala Farewell Dinner onboard our ship. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 9 – THURSDAY 6 DECEMBER 2012 * AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARK) - DEPART FOR U.S.

This morning after breakfast onboard, disembark and head to the airport for homebound flights which arrive back in U.S. on same day (Thursday 6th December 2012). (B)

THE MOST LUXURIOUS SHIPS ON THE RIVERS

AMAWATERWAYS’ ship, the MS AmaCello sets a new standard in European river cruising. Each stateroom offers a complimentary Infotainment System with a movie and music library and Internet free of charge. The Main Lounge offers nightly piano music and dancing. There is a Wellness Center with a fitness room and sauna, a beauty salon and masseuse, a Sun Deck with whirlpool and walking track. There are complimentary bicycles to explore towns on our own or on guided tours.

Unlike ocean cruising, our river cruise often docks right in the city center so we can tour close to the ship or venture farther into town. The ship’s entire interior is non-smoking and all announcements are in English. AmaCello’s English-speaking Captain, Cruise Manager and Crew are experienced professionals dedicated to our comfort.

Please note: AMAWATERWAYS makes their best efforts to keep to the itinerary as noted, however, factors may arise during the tour that compel AMAWATERWAYS to adjust the schedule.

EXCELLENT FOOD

One of the most popular aspects of a Burt Wolf River Cruise is the excellence of the food. Each full day on-board, there is a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner – with open seating arrangements. There is also a Cocktail Welcome Reception and Dinner, and a Farewell Dinner. AMAWATERWAYS’ on-board culinary staff offers sophisticated menus comprised of homemade soups, fresh produce, high-quality meats, and fresh fish and seafood.

Breakfast on-board: Start each day on-board with a champagne breakfast buffet. Choose from an assortment of breads, pastries, a variety of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as a daily regional special. An array of traditional breakfast items is also available from the menu.

Lunch on-board: Start with hot or cold appetizers and soups, then choose from a selection of entrees, finish off with a dessert and complimentary cappuccino.

Dinner on-board: In the evening, there is a five-course dinner or a theme night with a selection of regional specialties. White and red wines, beer and soft drinks are complimentary throughout dinner. Specialty coffees are available at no charge throughout the day.

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE TOURS IN ZÜRICH & LUCERNE

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * SATURDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2012
DEPART U.S. FOR ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * SUNDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2012
ARRIVE ZÜRICH - CHECK-INTO HOTEL

Arrive in Zürich and transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is free for you to start exploring this beautiful town. Perhaps visit the Old Town or shop along the Bahnhofstrasse and Niederdorf.

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * MONDAY 26 NOVEMBER 2012 * ZÜRICH

Your morning walking tour of Zürich will include Grossmünster, St. Peter, with the largest church clock face in the world, Old Town, Town Hall and Fraumünster, which offers an exceptional 360° panoramic view of Zürich. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore on your own. Options include Europe’s largest indoor Christmas Market located in the town’s main railway station or the markets at the Bahnhofstrasse and in the city center. (B)

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * TUESDAY 27 NOVEMBER 2012 * ZÜRICH - LUCERNE

THIS IS BURT’S HOME TOWN AND HE WILL JOIN YOU FOR LUNCH AT ONE OF HIS FAVORITE RESTAURANTS AND OFFER YOU HIS INSIDER’S GUIDE TO THE AREA. After breakfast, continue on to Lucerne via Einsiedeln Monastery. In Lucerne, you will enjoy a cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne. The looming mountains surrounding the lake provide a breathtaking view. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the town on your own or visit the enchanting Christmas Market located at the train station, where you will find yourself surrounded by the aroma of mulled wine and Christmas confections. (B)

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * WEDNESDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2012 * LUCERNE

Situated on Lake Lucerne, the city is a medieval jewel. After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour that will explore some of the city’s cobblestone streets, monuments, fountain-embellished public squares, covered bridges and colorful frescoed buildings. The afternoon brings free time to shop for watches, knives and world-famous chocolates. Or, you can join the optional tour and cable car ride to the top of Mount Pilatus. (B)

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION * THURSDAY 29 NOVEMBER 2012
LUCERNE - TRANSFER TO BASEL - BOARD SHIP

This morning, depart from Lucerne, visiting the Lion Monument en route to Basel. Arrive in Basel for a city tour before embarking our luxurious river cruise ship. Switzerland’s second largest city is ideally located at the crossroads of Switzerland, France and Germany. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval Town Hall and exquisite 18th century patrician homes. After settling into your stateroom this afternoon, you may wish to visit Basel’s Christmas Market on Barfsserplatz. This evening, meet our fellow passengers for a Welcome Cocktail and Dinner. (B,D)

COST FOR THE OPTIONAL 2-NIGHT PRE-CRUISE TOUR IN ZÜRICH & 2-NIGHT PRE-CRUISE TOUR IN LUCERNE

Add an additional $1,040 per person to the Cruise Cost (based on double occupancy) to include the 2-night Pre-Cruise Tour in Zürich and the 2-night Pre-Cruise Tour in Lucerne. The Single Supplement for the Land Tours is $520.

CRUISE COSTS

Cruise Cost, per person (based on double occupancy):

E-Category, Piano Deck, Fixed Window, 170 sq. ft. (yellow) $3,420  
D-Category, Piano Deck, Fixed Window, 170 sq. ft. (orange) $3,579  
C-Category, Cello/Violin Decks, French Balcony, 170 sq. ft. (purple) $3,883  
B-Category, Cello/Violin Decks, French Balcony, 170 sq. ft. (green) $4,043  
A-Category, Violin Deck, French Balcony, 170 sq. ft. (blue) $4,131  
Jr. Suite, Violin Deck, French Balcony, 255 sq. ft. (dark pink) $4,939  

ALL STATEROOMS ARE OUTSIDE-FACING. PASSENGER ELEVATOR AVAILABLE TO MAIN DECKS.

AmaDagio

Burt Wolf Danube Cruise Deck Plan

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DECK PLANS

Built 2008; Length: 360 ft.; Width 38 ft.; Crew: 41; Staterooms: 75; Sun Deck with Deck Chairs; Bicycles on on-board; Fitness Center; Massage; Beauty Salon; Elevator; Internet consoles in each cabin.

CABINS FOR SINGLE OCCUPANCY

A limited number of staterooms are available as Single–Shares at a cost of $4,043 (B-Category, green). Additional staterooms are available for single occupancy at a 40% surcharge.

EXPENSES NOT INCLUDED

Expenses not included in the Cruise Cost: roundtrip airfare (airline reservation may be made privately or through AMAWATERWAYS), optional travel insurance, port tax ($147.00), optional excursions, miscellaneous on-board expenses (laundry, telephone, minibar, liquor/food not on the regular menu, airport porters, excess baggage fees, gratuities to your Cruise Manager, guides, crew), passport, airport transfers in Europe, lunches/dinners during the optional Zürich and Lucerne Pre-Land Tours, and all other items of a personal nature.

SPACE IS LIMITED
PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO CONFIRM YOUR RESERVATION & STATE ROOM
© Burt Wolf Tours & Cruises, LLC
For more information please call Burt Wolf Tours & Cruises Toll-Free: 1.888.365.3443
or email us at: tour@burtwolf.com.