What:
Tour operator Adventures by Disney (ABD) recently revealed new river cruise
offerings for 2018, including special "Beauty and the Beast" themed
itineraries along the Rhine River and epicurean experiences along both the
Rhine and Danube rivers. In partnership with AmaWaterways, ABD will offer
six departures that celebrate the villages and culture that inspired
"Beauty and the Beast." ABD will also double the number of
food-and-wine-themed sailings along the Rhine. On the Danube, ABD will add
an all-new, adult-exclusive Oktoberfest sailing in September 2018.
Why It Matters:
As river cruise companies seek out more families, AmaWaterways and ABD
already offer travel agents a trusted combination of top brands. Using the
popular "Beauty and the Beast" franchise to promote real-world vacations
seems like a natural fit and a sure win for both companies, as well as for
agents.
Fast Facts:
- ABD eight-day, seven-night Rhine River vacations cruises visit four
countries - France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.
- Special "Beauty and the Beast" activities include a themed dinner, as
well as other unique culinary experiences inspired by the film. Families
can enjoy screenings of both the live-action and animated versions of the
film onboard, then tour Riquewihr, a French village that is reminiscent of
Belle's hometown from the movie.
- Highlights of ABD's epicurean cruises include activities such as wine
tasting; gourmet demonstrations and workshops; culinary walking tours in
several ports; a French patisserie class; local beer and wine pairings;
craft cocktail blending seminars; and more.
- ABD guests sail aboard river cruise ships that were custom built by
AmaWaterways with families in mind. Design elements include sets of
connecting staterooms and suites, some of which accommodate three- and
four-person families. ABD also worked closely with AmaWaterways to
reimagine shipboard spaces and activities, offering unique programming for
kids, teens and adults.
- Bookings for 2018 river cruise vacations are currently open.
What They Are Saying:
"For 2018, we looked to find exciting new ways to make our incredibly
popular river cruises even more enticing to every type of traveler," said
Ken Potrock, senior vice president of Adventures by Disney. "By increasing
the number of special themed sailings along the Rhine and Danube rivers we
now offer more choices than ever for our guests. Whether you're looking to
explore the storybook setting of 'Beauty and the Beast,' wine and dine on
local specialties during interactive epicurean workshops, stroll charming
European Christmas Markets or celebrate during rousing Oktoberfest
festivities, Adventures by Disney has carefully crafted personalized
vacation experiences to suit your interests and tastes."
"AmaWaterways is excited to expand our relationship with Adventures by
Disney and looks forward to welcoming the family travel market to some of
Europe's most unforgettable river cruise destinations in 2018," said
Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. "A
river cruise with AmaWaterways and Adventures by Disney gives families the
opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Europe's most
breathtaking destinations, and children, parents and grandparents will have
meaningful and magical experiences together."
The Details
Adventures by Disneywww.adventuresbydisney.com
