Exclusive Wine Cruise Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) Jun 2 - 9, 2025

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Hosted by Brigid & John Forrest, Founders, Forrest Wines, Renwick, New Zealand

For many generations, the Forrests have called Marlborough, New Zealand home. With daughter, Beth Forrest now at the helm, they remain one the few family-owned wine producers in New Zealand. Founders John and Brigid Forrest both had successful careers in scientific research and medicine before they chose to leave it all behind and try their hand at a reasonably green New Zealand wine industry in the late 1980s. Thirty-five years later, Forrest remains committed to the future of wine. The Forrest brand is reserved for the premium wines from the Marlborough terroir. An enthusiasm for experimentation and innovation and progressive plantings throughout their Marlborough Vineyards over the years has created a viticultural treasure trove of alternative grape varieties. This allows the Forrest family to present a diverse, quality-focused range to the wine lovers of New Zealand and the world. Celebrating their history and a multi-generational future, and still very much hands-on, they create premium, small-batch wines under the Forrest label with an impressive library of hand crafted and different wines and styles. John’s passion, drive, ever-inquiring mind and out-of-the-box thinking has also created one of the excellent consumer wine brands in the world; The Doctors’ – naturally produced wines with a lower alcohol content.

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 Lower Danube

From the grand architecture of Budapest to the mystical “Iron Gates” to the spirit of Dracula, the lower Danube is filled with intrigue. Our Gems of Southeast Europe itinerary journeys through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, where you can taste the diversity of five countries’ age-old winemaking traditions. Southeast of the Riesling-rich Wachau Valley, the lower Danube wine regions offer a rich variety. The Szekszárd wine region is one of the oldest red wine growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. Known for producing Kadarka grapes, most notably used in the blend known as Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), the region also produces many full-bodied and spicy reds like Cabernet Sauvignon, Kékfrankos and Merlot. In Serbia, a fruity plum brandy known as Šlivovitz is the drink of choice, a fitting addition to warm cocktails, while in Croatia, the town of Ilok has a winegrowing history dating back to Roman times, where cellars mature such varietals as Traminac, Riesling, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay.

Overview Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

Cruise From: Giurgiu to Budapest

Embark your cruise and sail along the Romanian-Bulgarian border, visiting cities like Vidin and Belogradchik. You will traverse the narrow gorges of the Iron Gates, a stunning passage that divides Europe’s Balkan and Carpathian mountains.

COUNTRIES: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia

RIVERS: Danube

Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise) 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 Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
  • Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
  • Mini-fridge, 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 pool with swim-up bar 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 Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

EMBARK June 2
7-NIGHT CRUISEGiurgiuBudapest
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS BUCHAREST, 2 NIGHTS BRASOV PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS VIENNA POST-CRUISE
ADD 3 NIGHTS ISTANBUL PRE-CRUISE AND 2 NIGHTS VIENNA POST-CRUISE

Notes:

ImportantDates, fares & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price)€195 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of twin fare; Jr. Suites & Suites 100% of twin fare. Please see terms below for details.

Single Supplement for Cruise (AmaMagna)50% of twin price; Grand Suite and Owner's Suite 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for Land€512 per person.

VisaA Turkish Tourist Visa is required for entry into Istanbul, Turkey. All guests traveling to Turkey must obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) prior to their departure date.

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:

Fares include port charges* and are cruise-only per person based on double occupancy of an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Fares do not include flights or transfers. Flights are available on request, please call for details. Any offers shown are valid on select sailings only and are combinable with all past guest programmes and guest service certificates, but not combinable with any other offers or promotions. Solo guests must pay an additional solo supplement before receiving any savings. On certain sailings Solo Supplement Waivers are available (non-combinable with savings) – please ask for more details. Fares and offers are subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time Offers are capacity controlled and subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Land programmes, international and UK domestic flights, and gratuities are additional. Other restrictions may apply. Please see our brochure or website for full Terms & Conditions.

Ships Gems of Southeast Europe (Wine Cruise)

AmaBella

The AmaBella offers the ultimate in custom-designed luxury. This 161-passenger vessel features a combination of amenities and design details.Learn more

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