Finding the Joy in River Cruising

Gliding Along

riving a rental car through a country when you can’t read the signage really ups the vacation tension factor. It’s fun to see the sights of course, but not exactly relaxing.

That’s why boarding our Emerald Cruise Line ship proved to be such a contrast. We’d loved our days on the road, but there was something soothing about handing over travel control to the white-uniformed captain and his crew. We’d see all the sights between Amsterdam and Budapest but someone else would be in charge of getting us there—the lazy joys of river cruising.

The fun began before we set sail with a private boat tour of the canals of Amsterdam. Gliding along ancient waterways was the perfect way to settle into a cruising state of mind.

Later, after boarding, we watched through the glass doors of our suite as the ship pulled away from the dock. We unpacked and congratulated ourselves for booking this mode of travel. There would be no more traffic and no schlepping of suitcases from car to hotel for a week. We had a floating home! But lovely as our suite was, we didn’t linger—there was too much to see and do

“AFTERWARDS, WE HEADED TO OUR SUITE TO WATCH THE LIGHTS ON THE RIVER BANK TWINKLING IN THE DARKNESS.”

We started with a visit to the bridge, and drinks on the sunny upper deck. The captain was eager to explain how his huge collection of dials and gauges worked and even offered us a chance to take the wheel. We’d have happily chatted with him and lolled in the sun forever but soon had to head to the lounge for our first port talk.

Never having explored this part of Europe, we found the daily port talk covering the next day’s adventures made it easy to plan. Emerald offers shore excursions each day, most of which are walking or small group bus tours of local sites, but you’re also welcome to explore on your own. Each port talk gives you an orientation to the next day’s stop, explaining whether you’ll dock in easy walking distance to a town or if you’ll need transportation. You can choose between what Emerald offers, or hire one of the cabs or private tour companies that are always gathered at the dock. A word to the wise – if you choose to explore on your own, be sure to arrange for a return that’s at least an hour in advance of sailing. If you’re not on board when the ship leaves, it will be up to you to make your way to the next port!

After the port talk, dinner was next on the agenda and we were impressed not only by the extensive menu choices and the elegant dining room décor but also by the service. The chef and his team pride themselves on creating menus that celebrate the cuisine of each region the ship sails through, so our first night’s dinner included such Dutch treats as herring, bitterballen, krokets, rookworst (sausages) and snert (a traditional pea soup). We tried a little of everything, trying hard to remember that each day would bring a different collection of culinary treats. Is it any wonder that cruise guests come home heavier than when they left?

The post-dinner entertainment that evening was low-key but charming—a local band who came aboard to play traditional Dutch tunes in the lounge.

Afterwards, we headed to our suite to watch the lights on the river bank twinkling in the darkness. We knew that the week ahead would be filled with the wonders of Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. There would be fascinating medieval towns and hilltop castles to explore, and we’d ride the ship’s bikes through the countryside and along the rivers our ship was sailing. We’d visit wineries and enjoy guided tours of not one, but four exciting capital cities along the way—and Emerald’s talented staff and crew would handle every detail.

We were already captivated by the magic of river cruising and it was only day one. .

TOP LEFT: Emerald Liberté Cruise Ship ; Wine tasting during EmeraldPLUS excursion; Delicious Emerald’s Reflections Restaurant entree; Grand Balcony Suite.

Contents

Cruise Control

What you need to know when choosing to cruise now.

Let’s start with the news. Many river cruise companies—take Emerald Cruises, for example, are dipping toes into the deeper waters of the sea.

In many ways, a ship acts like a floating hotel—guests can unpack once, settle into their staterooms, and wake up every day in a new port. It’s an ideal way to visit multiple cities and countries without having to navigate trains and planes or having to live out of your suitcase.

The 360-foot long Emerald Azzurra is Emerald Cruises’ first foray into ocean cruising. The superyacht has been custom-designed to cruise the waters of the Adriatic Coast, the Red Sea, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, offering guests an intimate, boutique yachting experience. Emerald Azzurra will call on multiple ports in Greece, Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, France, Turkey, Cyprus, Malta, Spain, Israel, Jordan and Egypt. As well as exploring the major highlights in these regions, guests will also have unique access to the smaller ports and harbours only accessible by small yachts, giving them the freedom to explore the authentic local towns and villages off the beaten tourist track.

As the newest superyacht in its class sailing these waters, Emerald Azzurra’s spacious balcony staterooms and suites, which start at more than 285 ft², have been designed with a modern feel and upscale amenities. Unlike other ships in this class, 88 percent of the cabins feature balconies from which to admire the breathtaking views. In the true style of a superyacht, the ship features a marina platform from which guests can take part in a variety of activities including paddle boarding and snorkelling. Emerald Azzurra will also feature three tenders and two zodiacs for shore landings. Additionally, the ship features an onboard wellness centre complete with gym and spa.

But we can’t ignore river cruising. One of the most popular aspects of this mode of travel is the way it allows for experiential travel. River cruises stop in small ports where guests can simply walk off the ship and explore. The intimacy of river cruising also appeals to guests. For example, Emerald Cruises’ Star-Ships sailing on European rivers carry a maximum of 180 passengers. Guests appreciate that they get to know the crew and other passengers during their time onboard.

Emerald Cruises, named Best River Cruise Line for Value by the Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards for five years running, also sail on the Mekong, as well as a chartered river ship sailing the Russian waterways.

Air Quality in Cabin

Physical Distancing procedures and mask procedures

Testing Requirements and Vaccination Requirements

Ships are equipped with air circulation systems that ensure there is no re-circulation of inside air on board the ship. When you are relaxing in your suite you will be breathing air from outside the ship that is channelled directly to your suite. The air will also be released from your suite directly to the outside.

The cruise line has enacted new onboard policies to help keep guests safe and healthy. For example, checking in and out of the ship at ports can now be handled in a completely contact-free way. A phased embarkation allows guests to arrive and depart from the Star-Ship smoothly and with safe social proximity in mind. Contact-free hand sanitizer dispensers will be readily available in all public spaces and guest corridors on board, while automated doors and contact-free guest servicing will minimize the number of touchpoints. Face masks should be carried by guests at all times. However, they are required to be worn when moving about the ship where social distancing is not possible.

The on board food and beverage service has been adapted to ensure extra care is taken in order to minimize social contact. In port, guests will travel in smaller groups, allowing for a more intimate travel experience, while respecting social proximity and destination specific regulations. To enhance your sightseeing, you can listen to your tour guide through your individual headset, allowing you to be in your own personal space.

The cruise line requires all guests to have received the required dose(s) of an approved Covid-19 vaccine. This will allow you to relax with complete peace-of-mind when you are on board Emerald Cruises Star-Ships, and be assured that you are in the company of fellow vaccinated guests. Guests are also required to complete a pre-departure medical health evaluation.

A negative Covid PCR test, taken within 72 hours of departure, is required to board the ship. For guests who require a Covid test before returning home, the line will provide a complimentary test on the 3rd last day of the cruise.

The top 3 Must Take Cruises for 2022

1. ITINERARY: SPLENDOURS OF

EUROPE

This epic journey through the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary encompasses everything there is to love about river cruising. Take in the area’s natural beauty, explore medieval towns, hike to hilltop castles or bike through picturesque villages, and explore four capital cities that offer a unique insight into the region’s past, present and future. THE HIGHLIGHT: An iconic glasstop canal boat cruise in Amsterdam marks the beginning or end of this classic European river cruise itinerary. CONNECT WITH LOCALS: Visit with a local Slovakian family in Bratislava and enjoy coffee and cake while learning about their daily lives. 2. ITINERARY: SENSATIONS OF

LYON & PROVENCE

It’s no surprise that the South of France is recognized as the birthplace of photography—its unrivaled beauty is seen in the 15 th century architecture, sprawling lavender fi elds and sun- soaked vineyards nestled at the foot of colossal mountain ranges. Journey to the country’s gastronomic heart—Lyon—and enjoy an authentic Provençal dinner on board. THE HIGHLIGHT: After spending the day in historic Avignon, you will enjoy a once-inlifetime meal: an authentic Provençal dinner created by Top Chef fi nalist Fabien Morreale. GET ACTIVE: To counterbalance all the delicious French pastry and wine, get out and explore the region via guided bike tours through the city of Lyon as well as the charming towns of Glun and Tournon, a hike through the local vineyards and a canoe excursion in Avignon. 3. ITINERARY: FRENCH AND

ITALIAN RIVIERAS WITH CORSICA

Start your adventure in the French Riviera, exploring Nice and Menton before discovering beautiful Portofi no, Italy. On the northern tip of Corsica, visit Calvi and Bonifacio before heading to Port Ercole and Rome’s port of Civitavecchia. Expect pastel houses, seafood restaurants and crystalline waters at your every turn. THE HIGHLIGHT: Spend an ideal day in Bonifacio, on the southern top of Corsica. Take in the stunning views from the city’s ancient fortress, or venture to the Corsican countryside for a wine tasting. SHOP LIKE A LOCAL: In the stunning, seaside village of Menton, France, join a guided tour that includes a visit to the local farmers market where you can stock up on goodies to enjoy or take home to share with friends and family.

EXCLUSIVE BOLD MAGAZINE READER OFFER

Save an extra $125 CAD per person on Emerald Cruises’ 2022/2023 Europe river cruises or 2022/2023 Asia river cruises. Extra savings are combinable with our latest open offers. See below for full terms & conditions. To Redeem: Call 1-833-221 8179 and mention code ECBOLD or contact your travel advisor. Offer expires March 31/22.

*Terms & Conditions: New bookings only. Valid from January 1st – March 31st, 2022. Must ask for the offer code ECBOLD. Save $125 CAD per person with 2022/2023 Europe river cruises and 2022/2023 Asia river cruises. Combinable with in-market offers valid at time booking is made. Combinable with Future Travel Credit; Restrictions apply. Previous guests can use their Welcome Home voucher. Not combinable with any other exclusive offer or perk including Travel Showcase event vouchers. A non–refundable initial deposit of $500 per person for river cruises is required at time of booking with full payment required 90 days prior to departure for river cruises. Cabin availability is subject to change. Prices subject to availability. Offers may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. For full booking terms and conditions, visit emeraldcruises.ca. © EMERALD CRUISES| ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | BC CONSUMER PROTECTION #40178.