Travel is in our DNA. Though travel is on “pause” around the world, people continue to dream of the day when they can see the world again and experience the things they love. Luxury hotel barge cruise specialist European Waterways is ready with a wide range of “dream cruises” that highlight travelers’ most popular bucket list experiences, from following the whisky trail and golfing in the Scottish Highlands, to an Opera cruise in Venice and a wine appreciation cruise in France.
Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways, explains that the company’s themed cruises feature enhanced itineraries that highlight the guests’ particular interests. For example, wine cruises contain more exclusive tastings on a variety of vintages than the classic cruises, while golf cruises include guaranteed tee times at world-class courses. The cruises are especially appealing to small groups or local clubs that share a common pastime or passion.
Whisked Away on a Dream Cruise
For single malt whisky enthusiasts, Whisky Trail cruises aboard the 8-passenger Scottish Highlander hotel barge visit at least three distilleries, where guests enjoy private tours and tastings. Among these is the family-run Benromach Distillery near Forres, as well as the Tomatin and Dalwhinnie distilleries, both in the Highland region.
Wine Appreciation cruises aboard the 12-passenger L’Impressionniste in Southern Burgundy feature private tastings at some of the best, “off the beaten path” vineyards. Guests enjoy such Burgundies as Nuits St-Georges, Santenay and Vosne Romanée, with premier or grand cru vintages hand-picked by the knowledgeable guides. Regions visited include the Loire Valley, Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, and Alsace.
European Waterways’ 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland Golf Cruises offer guests the opportunity to play the game with the wide expanse of the Scottish Highlands providing a dramatic background. The cruise lets players tee up at four championship courses that include the Castle Stuart, the Royal Dornoch, Fort Augustus, and Newtonmore.
For opera lovers, Venice’s Arena di Verona offers one of the most impressive settings to enjoy a performance of some of the world’s most famous operas. Opera-themed cruises on the 20-passenger La Bella Vita hotel barge include premium seats at this internationally famous venue to watch one of its celebrated performances. Opera Cruises are available throughout July and August, either by cabin or as a whole boat charters.
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