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Blue Danube Discovery - Festive Delights
Nov 20 - 29, 2027
Teachers, Give Yourself the Gift of Europe: A Christmas Market River Cruise on the Danube
Step away from lesson plans and grading, and step into the magic of Europe’s Christmas Markets—November 20–29, 2027.
After years of lesson plans, grading, and classroom challenges, you deserve more than a long weekend—you deserve a full escape.
Imagine wandering through Europe’s most enchanting Christmas Markets before the holiday rush, sipping hot mulled wine, savoring local treats, and connecting with fellow educators who understand the joys—and stresses—of teaching.
This is your chance to step into a world of culture, community, and calm, where every day is filled with wonder, not work.
7-night Cruise From: Budapest to Nuremberg
COUNTRIES: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
RIVERS: Danube
Ports of Call:
- Budapest → Bratislava → Vienna → Dürnstein/Wachau Valley → Passau → Regensburg → Nuremberg
Optional Extensions:
- 2-night Budapest pre-cruise
- 3-night Prague post-cruise
Activities:
- Walking tours through historic cities
- Wine tastings & culinary experiences
- Biking along scenic rivers
- Castles, cathedrals, and charming villages
- Local Christmas Markets
Every day is a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, curated for teachers who need a break.
Note: Select Christmas Markets will be open during select departures and may vary. For full details and dates, visit the tourism website for each city.
Itinerary
Sat, Nov 20
Sun, Nov 21
Mon, Nov 22: Budapest, Hungary
Tue, Nov 23: Bratislava, Slovakia
Wed, Nov 24: Vienna, Austria
Thu, Nov 25: Dürnstein, Austria
Fri, Nov 26: Passau, Germany
Sat, Nov 27: Regensburg, Germany
Sun, Nov 28: Nuremberg, Germany
Mon, Nov 29: Nuremberg, Germany
Full Itinerary
Why a River Cruise?
- Unpack once and wake up in a new city or village each day
- Dock in the heart of Europe’s most charming towns—no long transfers needed
- Enjoy all-inclusive luxury with meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions included
- Travel with a smaller group—more intimate and personal than ocean cruising
- Access unique cultural experiences like wine tastings, bike rides, and guided walking tours
- Experience festive Christmas Markets just steps from your ship
- A stress-free way to travel Europe, with every detail handled for you
AmaBella Overview:
Isn’t she lovely? Newly reimagined in 2021, the graceful AmaBella is a stunning river ship, unique in her own right. The intimate lounge is an inviting place to grab a cocktail and the thoughtfully redesigned reception area, adorned with charming pieces of contemporary art, provides a warm welcome after a day exploring ashore. Most staterooms feature AmaWaterways' signature twin balconies so you can enjoy the views however you wish, as well as Entertainment-On-Demand and marble bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads. Elegant suites feature added enhancements, including a large sitting area and an expansive bathroom complete with a bathtub and separate shower. You’ll also find a massage and hair salon on board, a fitness room, specialty coffee station and a gift shop. An expansive Sun Deck with a heated pool offers special moments of pure relaxation. Mealtimes are a feast for the senses in the Main Restaurant and at The Chef’s Table where you will witness our chefs in action through our glass-walled kitchen. The new “Café Bistro” is the perfect al fresco setting to play cards, mingle or enjoy a light lunch.
Twin Balconies
Enjoy panoramic views and plenty of fresh air in our lavish twin-balcony staterooms that feature both a French balcony and an outside balcony.

Award-Winning Dining
Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.

Inviting Public Spaces
With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

Sightsee by Bike
With a fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, you have the opportunity to explore Europe on our guided bike tours, or go discover on your own.

Sun-Deck Pool
Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.

Massage Services and Hair Salon
After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.

Fitness Room
Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.

Enriching Entertainment
Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.
What's Included:
7-night CruiseSPACIOUS 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 Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages
- 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
- Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaine des Rotisseurs Dinner, Captain’s Cocktail and Gala 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 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
- Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
What's NOT Included
- Airfare
- Pre-cruise hotel accommodations if you choose to arrive a day early and are not booking the optional pre-cruise land package
- Transfers to and from the ship unless air is purchased with AmaWaterways
- Pre- and post-cruise land package options
- Tours outside of what is included in the pre-and post-cruise land packages
- Travel Insurance - Highly recommended. I can assist with this by providing several different options to fit your needs.
- Meals outside what is included in the itinerary
- Tips and Gratuities
- Personal Expenses
Cabin Pricing (Per Person based on Double Occupancy).
Category SS
$7,728.00
Category AA
$6,328.00
Category AB
$6,128.00
Category BA
$5,928.00
Category BB
$5,728.00
Category C
$5,128.00
Category D
$3,579.00
Category E
$3,529.00
Above pricing includes the exclusive early discount of $1,250 off per person good through March 31,2026. (Subject to change after this date.)
All reservations are subject to availability upon receipt of full names and $400 per person deposit.
Bedding: Please 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).
Double occupancy:
All cabin pricing is based on double occupancy.
Roommates:
If you do not have someone in mind to accompany you on this unforgettable journey, please contact Carri to arrange a possible roommate.
Enhance Your Journey
Pre and Post-Cruise Options:
2 Nights Budapest package (Pre-cruise) USD: $680 DBL / $1020 SGL - 11/20/2027 - 11/22/2027
3 Nights Prague package (Post-cruise) USD: $1080 DBL / $1530 SGL - 11/29/2027 - 12/02/2027
If you would like to extend your trip before or after your cruise NOT with AmaWaterways, I am happy to help you with your Pre or Post-Cruise plans.
Why This Group Is Special
This isn’t just any river cruise—it’s a teacher’s retreat designed to restore your energy and reignite your passion for teaching.
Our group offers exclusive teacher perks, including $1,250 off per person for early booking group discount, plus the chance to connect with a community of like-minded educators who are ready to relax, explore, and celebrate the season together.
This is more than a trip—it’s a shared experience of rest, joy, and festive European magic you won’t want to miss.
This Festive Delights River Cruise is Perfect for:
- Teachers who are ready to rest, recharge, and reward themselves after years in the classroom
- Retired educators looking for a bucket-list holiday experience
- Friends and family of teachers who want to share the magic of Europe together
- Couples seeking a romantic and festive getaway
- Anyone who dreams of exploring Europe’s Christmas Markets without the December crowds
- Travelers who value luxury, culture, and community all in one trip
This Festive Delights River Cruise is NOT for:
- Those who prefer large crowds and mega-ships with thousands of passengers
- Travelers looking for non-stop nightlife and casinos
- Anyone who doesn’t enjoy walking tours, cultural exploration, or history
- People who want to spend their vacation in hot, tropical weather (this trip is all about crisp, festive winter vibes!)
- Those who don’t enjoy the idea of a cozy, community-style experience with like-minded travelers
- Severely mobility challenged individuals
- Families with small children
Booking Details & Deposit Information
Deposit:
Secure your spot on this unforgettable Thanksgiving 2027 Christmas Market cruise with a $400 per person deposit, which is 50% refundable up to 121 days prior to embarkation. This initial deposit guarantees your cabin and gives you peace of mind while planning ahead.
Professional Planning Fee:
In addition, a professional planning fee of $250 per cabin ($125 per person if not a couple) ensures that every detail of your journey is taken care of—from personalized itineraries to group maintenance and excursion recommendations to tips for pre- and post-cruise extensions. This will be sent as a separate invoice after booking deposit is complete.
Payments:
The final balance is due by August 24, 2027, but by booking early, you not only lock in your preferred cabin and early booking discounts, you also enjoy more time to spread out your payments, making this luxurious teacher getaway both stress-free and budget-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a teacher to join?
No—you’re welcome to invite family and friends. The trip is designed with teachers in mind, but anyone can book.What’s the deposit and is it refundable?
$400 per person (due at booking). 50% refundable until 121 days before departure. Balance due August 24, 2027.What’s not included?
Airfare, pre hotel if arriving a day early, travel insurance, gratuities, and personal expenses.Is travel insurance required?
Strongly recommended. Options are available.Can I add extra days?
Yes! Add 2 nights in Budapest before the cruise and/or 3 nights in Prague after.What if I’m traveling solo?
Single supplement applies. Cabins are very limited. Ask Carri for details.Don't Delay
Even though this incredible Thanksgiving 2027 cruise is still two years away, booking early is essential to secure your spot. AmaWaterways’ Christmas Market cruises are extremely popular, and cabins, especially in our teacher group, fill quickly. By reserving now, you not only guarantee your place on this magical journey through Europe’s festive markets, but you also lock in exclusive early booking discounts. If you wait, you could lose the chance to experience the enchanting holiday markets, historic cities, and cozy river views with a community of like-minded educators. Your perfect teacher getaway awaits, but it won’t wait forever!
Ready to Book? Click the green "Reserve Your Spot" button on the right. 👉👉👉
Questions: Email me at carri@timelessstonestravel.com OR Schedule a Therapy Session with Carri
Can’t Join Us in 2027?
We know that set group dates don’t work for everyone. If this Christmas Market river cruise is on your bucket list but the November 22–29, 2027 dates don’t align with your schedule, we can help you plan the same magical experience on different dates that fit your calendar. Even better—if you have friends, family, or colleagues who would love to join, you could even lead your own group on a different sailing or year. The beauty of river cruising is the flexibility and variety of itineraries available—together, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on the magic of Europe’s Christmas Markets.

Your Advisor
Carri Arman
Timeless Stones Travel
California Seller of Travel: 2073234-00
Florida Seller of Travel: ST36257
Washington Seller of Travel: 602864166

carri@timelessstonestravel.com
5018376051