Amadeus Cruiser Club Magazine_Issue 11

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Welcome onBoard

New AMADEUS ship in 2026

Dear AMADEUS Guests,

Dreaming is one of life’s inherent luxuries. And for years, we have been helping even the most seasoned travelers pursue their dreams of seeing the world. With decades of luxury travel behind us, our own experiences drive our inspiration and the pursuit of excellence on every single cruise. When you meet our attentive AMADEUS crew, you’ll find professionals equally excited to introduce you to rich adventures aboard one of our AMADEUS river cruises.

Our new magazine brings Europe’s scenic rivers and rich culture right to your doorstep. With the turn of each page, you can almost smell the mountain air or feel the quiet drift of the river. But which river? The names are as enchanting as the land itself. The Rhine, Main, Moselle, Danube, Seine, Saône, or Rhône. We know them all and consider it our privilege to share these legendary riverways with you.

On each page, see your daydreams in living color. In our travel feature, we invite you aboard the AMADEUS Riva for an up-close-and-personal tour. Meet Paul Bocuse, an iconic master of French cuisine. Or learn about Sara-la-Kali who introduced Christianity into Provence. Revel in some of the Seine’s most fascinating finds on page 26 or test your cruise knowledge with a fun puzzle.

As you read this issue, where do your thoughts lead you now? With AMADEUS, those far away horizons are closer than you think.

Meet you soon on the rivers,

Your AMADEUS Team

A journey through time on the Rhône and Saône rivers: Find out more on page 08
From Passau to Budapest: Find out more on page 06

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Good News for New Travel Dreams Arriving upon Golden Shores: Meet AMADEUS Aurea

Step Back in Time on Rhône und Saône Stories to Remember, Places to Cherish

Traveling on the Danube Fall in Love from Passau to Budapest aboard the AMADEUS Riva

Wander a Little While Longer Pre and Post Cruise Extension Programs

River Talk Interview with Captain Patrick Bálasa

Test your River Knowledge Our Cruiseword Puzzle

Adorable Souvenirs from the Seine From Macarons to Camembert

Welcome to the AMADEUS Family Membership in the AMADEUS CRUISER CLUB

Publisher: LÜFTNER CRUISES, Amraser-See-Straße 56, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria www.lueftner-cruises.com

The magazine is copyright protected. Lüftner Cruises assumes no liability for the accuracy of the information in this magazine. All prices are subject to change.

Layout & design: Creation by Laudert (www.laudert.com)

Editorial: Markus Möller, Rostock

Picture credits/copyright Alexander, Pfeffel; Kristina Perreault; Martin Skopal; moving pictures; Tom Yasny; Volker Vornehm; AdobeStock: Tomas Marek, adiso, Peter, Unclesam, EnginKorkmaz, Roberto Lo Savio, Rastislav Sedlak SK, saiko3p, eyetronic, moofushi, SCStock, matho, mitzo_bs, Vlad Belov, Alona, Maximilian, Kotkoa, pics3, Pvince73, Oksana, Vadym Sirobaba, Lotharingia, FornStudio, TIMDAVIDCOLLECTION, parallel_dream – stock.adobe.com, Shutterstock: Peter Gyorfi-Batori – shutterstock.com 06 08 12 18 22 24 26

ravel dreamsgood news for new

ARRIVING UPON GOLDEN SHORES: MEET AMADEUS AUREA

The name Aurea speaks for itself. With a nod to the ancient past, the word literally means golden. Looking towards future horizons, the newest ship AMADEUS Aurea joins our fleet promising a legacy equal to her name: brilliant. Step aboard the future of cruising where every detail focuses on sustainability and conservation. From the latest in solar technology to the abundance of natural light in each cabin,

NATURE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS:

4 DECKS, 12 SUITES, 67 OUTSIDE CABINS

AMADEUS Aurea cruises Europe’s storied waterways in perfect rhythm with nature. Cruise the Rhine or Danube and find yourself at home in one of the 12 suites or 67 cabins. As the setting sun bathes the sky in golden hues, feel the anticipation of another splendid day yet to come.

AMADEUS Aurea – Travel with foresight and vision: Modern, sustainable and stylish: The AMADEUS Aurea represents the future of river travel.

A TOAST TO SUMMER OR WINTER CRUISING:

BRINGING THE SYMPHONY TO YOUR DOOR

Best of holland & Belgium

What’s your preferred season? Perhaps to relish the winter silence before a single violin stirs the air. Or, to bask in summer’s glow and days filled with abundant sunlight. The choice is yours. Aboard the AMADEUS Cara, explore the winter riverscapes from Cologne to Amsterdam where a

curated experience awaits–a live concert by world-famous violinist André Rieu. If summer inspires you, join us aboard the AMADEUS Star and journey through Holland and Belgium, from pastoral countryside to exciting European cities.

EXCURSIONS THAT REFLECT YOUR STYLE: WE LEAVE THE CHOICE TO YOU

One size rarely fits all, especially when traveling. What’s your idea of the perfect day? An active adventure or a quiet historical tour? Our four select excursion types offer you the luxury of time and choice.

Indulge your senses enjoying regional cuisine and fine wines.

Hike, bike, or climb your way into Europe’s immense beauty.

Step into Europe’s rich past, learning about history and culture

Enjoy the show! Onboard learn to waltz, listen to concerts or entertaining folklore shows.

step back in time on Rhône and aône

STORIES TO REMEMBER, PLACES TO CHERISH

Along the Rhône and Saône rivers, the vibrant present meets yesterday’s stories.

As you wind down in cadence with the river’s movement, time also floats. Architecture, art, landscapes, castles and more tell stories, captivating travelers with rich

histories. Among the most significant characters are Paul Bocuse, a celebrated chef, and Sara-la-Kali, the Black Sara, who as legends tell, brought Christianity to Provence alongside Mary Magdalene.

View

Paul Bocuse and Nouvelle Cuisine

Where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge sits the city of Lyon, home to one of France’s most important culinary giants. Paul Bocuse, referred to as the chef of the century, pioneered the concept of Novelle Cuisine. Born in 1926 in Collongesau-Mont-d'Or, Bocuse was raised in a family of seasoned restaurateurs, helping his father in the kitchen from age nine.

Just six years later, he began training with Eugénie Brazier — the first woman in the world to earn three Michelin stars for her Lyon restaurant. After training in Paris and Lyon, he returned to his hometown and the family restaurant L'Auberge Paul Bocuse.

THE MARKET WAS PAUL BOCUSE'S SECOND HOME.

Over time, he would earn three Michelin stars and hold onto them longer than any other establishment in history. In 1970, Bocuse perfected what would become his signature contribution to global cuisine: Nouvelle Cuisine. His guiding principle was simple: fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with care and rooted in local tradition. The market was his second home — a place where he personally selected the best ingredients.

Today, one of Lyon’s largest markets, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, carries his name. While he remained deeply rooted in his region, Bocuse’s influence stretched across the globe. From Europe to Japan, Australia to the United States, his culinary legacy endured until his death in 2018.

The picturesque old town of Lyon.
The heart of French cuisine: cheese specialities from Lyon.

ara-la-Kali and the Spirit of Faith

Sometimes, the less visible stories leave the deepest mark. In the Camargue region of southern France, you can discover its living treasures — the iconic white horses, semi-wild bulls, and graceful pink flamingos — set against a backdrop of centuries of history.

According to legend, nearly 2,000 years ago a small boat drifted ashore in Saintes-Maries-dela-Mer. Aboard were four women, said to be early Christian refugees fleeing persecution in Judea: Mary Salome, Mary of Cleophas, Mary Magdalene — the devoted companion of Jesus — and Sara,

an Egyptian servant of Mary Magdalene. Their fabled arrival has long been celebrated as the beginning of Christianity in Southern France.

The story tells that, as food grew scarce, Sara walked the Camargue, knocking on doors to ask for alms. Along the way, she shared her deep faith, and the locals — moved by her humility and wisdom — began calling her Gitane, the gypsy.

ABOVE ALL, IT IS A CELEBRATION OF LIFE THAT ELECTRIFIES THE ENTIRE TOWN.

Every year, la Camargue pilgrimage, also known as the Gitan Pilgrimage, is an annual celebration, ending on May 24th. The town bursts into a sea of color as statues of the four women are carried to the sea and blessed with water. During your excursion on a Rhône cruise, step into the church and discover the remarkable story of Sara-la-Kali for yourself.

The fishing town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

raveling anube on the

FALL IN LOVE FROM PASSAU TO BUDAPEST ABOARD THE AMADEUS RIVA

Around the bend, the AMADEUS RIVA awaits your arrival. As the time to set sail grows closer, your anticipation grows. What’s next? For once, having all the answers doesn’t matter — because at last, you are here. The day planners are tucked away, the phones set aside. From this moment on, we invite you to let time unfold at its own pace — gracefully, in harmony with the river’s current, the morning sunlight, and the rhythm that feels most your own.

day 1: Cast off in Passau

From the time you board the AMADEUS Riva, you become the center of quiet attention. “May we carry your bag or show you to your cabin?” After settling into your private sanctuary, the exploration begins. Perhaps you’re curious about the scenery from the upper deck? Or just want to relax by the panoramic windows in your cabin. Excitement pulses through the air as the ship slowly pushes away from the dock and our formal reception begins. From the starboard side of the ship, the storied cathedral looms, then grows distant while the magnificent Veste Oberhausfortress commands attention from the top of St. Georgsberg mountainside.

Evening cocktails set the tone while the ship glides through the Danube, merging with the fading light of day. At the Welcome Dinner, the room comes alive with guests from across Europe, the U.S., Central America, and beyond. Laughter fills the air. As you toast a glass of Grüner Veltliner or Blauer Zweigelt with a fellow traveler, the same question repeats. “Where are you from?” With eight days on the Danube to Budapest and back, strangers will fast become friends and foreign lands will become familiar.

day 2:

Following Medieval Footsteps of the

Wachau Valley

Night folds into morning, and as you awake in your spacious, well-appointed cabin, pamper yourself in elegant style. Our suites and cabins offer oversized bathrooms, wardrobes and light-filled spaces. Pause a moment before the panoramic windows until you’re ready to head to breakfast. Hoping for solitude or companionship? Indulge in a steaming cup of coffee while watching the sunrise or introduce yourself to a new traveler. Knowing our guests connect easily, we have no doubt conversations will flow freely. Listen for the soft, excited voices. “You’re from Chicago?” or “This is your first river cruise too?”

Disembarking on the first excursion to Melk Abbey means stepping into history and finding yourself among friends, both past and present. Steeped in history with more than 100,000 antiquarian books, towering halls, and art, Melk Abbey is a

working Benedict monastery. A fine example of Baroque architecture, the abbey offers a quiet refuge. Stroll the ornamental garden or soak up the stories and history. Later aboard the ship, enjoy a traditional Frühschoppen of white sausages and pretzels and soak up the passing views of vineyards and the Wachau region. Ready for more adventure? Join us in Dürnstein and wander the medieval streets and unique boutiques located in the shadows of the ruins that whisper enchanting tales of the past.

Just when you think the day could not hold one more pleasure, take a moment in the Panorama Lounge, tapping your foot to the lively piano and saxophone sounds of AMADEUS Duo while sipping a new cocktail, crafted by our talented mixologist.

Culinary highlights await you in the Restaurant.

day 3: A Viennese Day of Kings and Cathedrals

Without missing a beat, our AMADEUS Cruise Director Tim serves as your ever-present compass, guiding you through a personalized tour of one of Europe’s grandest cities: Vienna. As you settle into the comfort of a private coach, our tour guides keep you spellbound with stories of emperors and kings, cathedrals and culture. Strolling through the city reveals awe-inspiring Habsburg architecture and the grandeur of the Hofburg Palace. In the historic Kohlmarkt, discover refined boutiques and perhaps choose that one special keepsake.

Step inside the gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral where time stands still and candles burn in solemn remembrance for the living and departed. Hungry? A gourmet lunch awaits on board, offering signature delights such as roasted beetroot soup, chicken bruschetta and warm strudel. Return to your cabin for a quiet rest and free time until the next excursion to Schönbrunn Palace. Imagine yourself royalty as you stroll the gardens or explore the immense 1,441 rooms, quietly whispering their stories across centuries.

As the sunsets, a choice stands before you. Join your new friends and dance the night away or steal away to watch the stars? Either choice leads to a perfect ending.

The Vienna Hofburg – once an imperial residence, now a magnificent centre of Austrian history and politics.
Magnificent staircase in Schönbrunn Palace.

day 4:

Touch the Brilliance of Budapest

Today, meet the Queen of the Danube. As we wind through the famous Danube Bend and Visegrád Mountains, Budapest appears in all her brilliance.

At first glance, the Chain Bridge, Parliament and Castle Hill captivate. Later, listen to an expert guide who introduces you to the Grand Market Hall, the State Opera House Heroes’ Square, entertaining with humor and wit. The tour and stories continue as we cross Liberty Bridge and begin a lofty, skyward ascent in the luxury coach to Castle Hill. No words can describe the scenery from Fisherman’s Bastion or Matthias Church, where sky meets earth.

At day's end, Budapest leaves an indelible impression. Traditional Hungarian folk dancers whirl to the sound of violins and guitars, filling the evening with energy and spirit. Later, the ship glides once more along the Danube, and from the Sun Deck the city reveals itself anew – bridges illuminated, palaces aglow, and Parliament shimmering in golden light. Budapest at night is pure enchantment.

day 5:

Flavors of the Puszta and Charm in Esztergom

“Coffee or tea?” asks your steward with a smile. That’s the question of the morning. The harder choice: Join the culinary tour of Budapest or escape to the wide-open landscapes of the Puszta? The name alone stirs your wanderlust — and soon the city gives way to boundless plains. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a sip of Pálinka and a cheer for the riders performing a flawless show on horseback. One even rides bareback — and then it’s your turn. You dismount to a feast of paprika sausage, salami, and local wine. Kiváló! Life tastes good.

From this point on, your cruise sails upstream, letting you revisit riverbank favorites and discover new gems — like Esztergom. Fancy one last “Fiaker” coffee in the Café Vienna on board before heading ashore? The cozy lanes draw you in, leading to Hungary’s largest church, the grand Esztergom Basilica. Feeling small can be a beautiful thing.

At dinner, you toast with Bishop Pete and Lisa’s family. As you savor cheese soup, halibut, and strawberry dumplings, a sense of togetherness fills the room. This ship is just the right size — familiar faces become friends.

Later, Cruise Director Tim takes the stage to host the raffle. With his easy charm and Dutch humor, he has everyone smiling in no time. Bingo! You win — a plush bathrobe and a Rituals gift set.

View from the historic Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest of the Hungarian Parliament at sunset – a magical moment above the Danube.
Discover untouched nature, traditional pastoral culture and an endless horizon in the Hungarian Puszta.

day 6: Bratislava Charm

As you open the curtains, a city lies spread before you. Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, captivates with its bright tiled roofs, spires, and Bratislava Castle. Choose to wander the city on a solo journey or join others for a guided tour. The walk to the main square and Old Town Hall leads you past charming locally-owned shops and rustic taverns. Spend time browsing or enjoy the immense view from the hillside.

In the afternoon, a trip to Rača in the Slovak ian wine country. Taste a crisp Grüner Veltliner and stroll through vineyards up a sunlit hill. A sip of Riesling loosens the tongue, and soon you’re laughing with Francesca and Matteo from Florence. Every outing feels like a highlight. A strawberrykissed rosé sets the mood as your gaze drifts across the Little Carpathians. An afternoon snack is enjoyed in a charming garden restaurant, where platters of Slovak specialties are shared and glasses of Frankovka clink in cheerful toasts. No wonder it was Empress Maria Theresa’s favorite wine. You share a final toast with Dave and Lili — he’s from England, she’s from Ireland, and together they’ve made their home in the Algarve. For them, nothing compares to the beauty of both traveling — and coming home.

Pressburg Castle above the Danube – the landmark of Bratislava with an impressive view over the Slovak capital.
Evening atmosphere in Bratislava's old town with a view of the historic Michael's Gate.

day 7:

From Leisure Time to Linz

As Wachau disappears on the horizon, your morning holds no strict plan. Walking around the ship, you find yourself humming a Waltz tune from last night. With a book in hand, choose to rest and read on the Sun Deck or follow friends to the wheelhouse. There, Captain Beciu Nelu shares his passion for the river, still strong after decades with AMADEUS. Afternoon brings adventure with a hike up Linz’s local mountain, the 539-meter-high Pöstlingberg, shared in the company of fellow travelers. Quaint neighborhoods become smaller as you ascend. Past the zoo and up to the pilgrimage basilica where you offer a quiet prayer. And now, marvel at the scene before you which stretches to the foothills of the Alps on a clear day.

Back onboard, the evening brings celebration! Everyone, from the crew to the chefs, gather in the Panorama Lounge for a formal farewell. Spirits are high, toasts are made, and the four-course Gala Dinner is about to start. From tuna tartare with an Asian twist to a woodland mushroom cappuccino

soup, raspberry-mint jelly, and Chateaubriand with tiger prawns — ending with a fluffy omelette surprise. You share memories from the week with your new friends from New Orleans and Chicago. One last glass of wine in the AMADEUS club, one last toast to life and adventures on the river.

day 8:

Until We Meet Again in Passau

As the morning light awakens Passau, enjoy your last moments aboard the ship. Savor a long luxurious shower, a fresh baked good from the bakery, or one last cup of hot coffee on the Sun Deck. Even as you walk down the gangway, realize that rarely do we say goodbye to our guests. Instead, we say auf wiedersehen. Until we meet again. Because while this cruise has come to an end, your journeys with AMADEUS have just begun.

The Baroque Trinity Column on Linz's main square – an impressive symbol of the city's history.

Wander a little while longer

DISCOVER OUR PRE AND POST CRUISE EXTENSION PROGRAMS

When you choose to join us for a pre- or post-cruise, time is our gift to you. Extra time for you to experience our personalized, curated excursions and adventures. Thoughtfully created with every detail considered, these guided tours include premium 4- or 5-star accommodations and comfortable private ground transportation. Ready to explore more? Start here to learn about our 2026 land extensions.

Discover your optional land programmes

Cruises with land programmes

3 nights in Prague

Some describe it as a fairytale. Others say it’s Medieval. However you imagine Prague to be, this “Golden City” promises to enchant you from start to finish. While the routes differ slightly between the pre- and post-programs, both include 3 days to explore the land and architecture. While en route, taste freshly tapped beer in Český Krumlov. In Prague’s castle district, take a guided tour of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Strahov Library. Join us for a culinary adventure at the historic restaurant Na Pekle located in a cavernous, former Medieval wine cellar. On your arrival or your final evening, we invite you to a classical concert in the Mirror Chapel, an 18th-century renowned historic concert venue.

Bookable in combination with the cruise: Classic Danube Budapest – Passau – Prague: 07.06. – 17.06.2026 Prague – Passau – Budapest: 01.10. – 11.10.2026

A masterpiece of medieval technology: the astronomical clock on the Old Town Hall.
Dawn on Old Town Square in Prague. The sun bathes the historic buildings, Baroque façades and Gothic Týn Church in warm light.
The bridges of Prague, above all the world-famous Charles Bridge, connect the Old Town with the Lesser Town across the Vltava River. In the soft light of dusk, a breathtaking view of the historic panorama of the ‘Golden City’ unfolds.

3 nights in Switzerland

From your AMADEUS ship, journey upstream to Basel, then inland to Lucerne, the “Swiss paradise on the lake”. Situated at the foot of the Swiss Alps, this charming city boasts the iconic Chapel Bridge, among other historic sites. Reach new heights as you ride the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the 2,128-metre summit of Mount Pilatus and marvel at the spectacular sweeping Alpine view. After descending, relax along Lake Lucerne. On the third day, explore Zurich, a city filled with cosmopolitan charm, museums, and boutiques.

Bookable in combination with the cruise:

Classic Rhine Cruise

Amsterdam – Basel – Lucerne - Zurich

08.06. – 18.06.2026

09.09. – 19.09.2026

Pilatus Kulm is considered a majestic vantage point high above Lucerne, where the Alpine panorama and myths about the dragon mountain come together.

4 nights in Transylvania

If you have ever wished to step inside a favorite mystery novel or rekindle a childhood tale of intrigue, spending 4 nights in Transylvania may be the answer. One of Romania’s most legendary regions, this journey takes you on the famed Transfăgărășan Highway through the Carpathians to Sibiu. The heartbeat of Transylvania, Sibiu delights with its Baroque squares and enchanting culinary dishes.

Begin your first adventure in Sighișoara, home to one of Europe’s last inhabited medieval citadels and the birthplace of Vlad Dracula, the historical character who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. As afternoon approaches, the tour continues to Viscri, home to Viscri Fortified Church which represents a fine example of Saxon architecture. End the day in Brașov where your 5-star luxury hotel promises sweet dreams. As morning breaks, visit the fortress of Hărman, with its thick walls

and secret passages. Back in Brașov, join a guided walking tour that highlights the Gothic and Baroque architecture and includes the famous Black Church — the largest Gothic church in Southeast Europe. Mystery abounds as night falls, and the exclusive, private visit to the legendary Bran Castle begins. Did you hear something? Dine in the castle’s Tea House, surrounded by whispers and tales of Dracula.

Bookable in combination with the cruise:

1,200 miles along the Danube

Vienna – Bucharest: 16.09. – 29.09.2026

Bucharest – Vienna: 09.07. – 23.07.2026

& 14.08. – 28.08.2026

As the last day unfolds, you may feel like a curious child. If you’re a wine enthusiast, be ready to explore the Rhein Cellar in Azuga, known for its sparkling wine once preferred by Romanian royalty. Our next stop is Peleș Castle in Sinaia, framed by forested mountains and home to elegant, rich European decor at its best. Upon arrival in Bucharest, settle into your accommodations at the InterContinental Hotel and relax, relishing each memory of Transylvania.

Peles Castle rises majestically in the heart of Transylvania, a fairytale of turrets and spires.

River alk

How long have you been sailing with AMADEUS?

I’ve been Captain of the AMADEUS Cara since her very first journey in 2022, right after her christening. But my story with AMADEUS goes back much further – I’ve proudly served on the fleet for over 24 years.

What brought you to AMADEUS?

As a child, I dreamed of steering ships one day. Outside my parents’ house was a small canal, where I would spend hours playing with toy boats – never imagining it would become my career.

I first worked as a captain for a Romanian shipping company, until AMADEUS made me an extraordinary offer. I accepted – and I’ve been here ever since. Today, I’m fortunate to live my childhood dream: guiding guests safely along Europe’s most beautiful rivers.

Patrick Bálasa, Captain

On board the AMADEUS Cara, Captain Patrick Bálasa enjoys the best seat in the house. From the bridge on the sun deck, he guides the ship from one beautiful city to the next, ensuring his guests experience Europe’s rivers at their very best. In our interview, he shares why he welcomes his passengers’ curiosity, where he feels most at home, and how a small canal outside his childhood home sparked a lifelong passion for his profession.

Which destination is your favorite?

We sail on many rivers, each with its own charm, but the Danube is my favorite. It feels like home to me. I especially love Budapest – standing on Castle Hill and taking in the panoramic view never ceases to amaze me. Vienna is also close to my heart, with its magnificent architecture and rich history.

Do you have a special memory from your time on board?

There are countless wonderful memories. Life on board is like being part of a family. Our goal is for guests to feel at home with us – and that only works if we, the crew, feel at home too. I especially enjoy it when guests visit the bridge, watch us at work, and ask questions. Their curiosity brings me joy, and I love sharing insights into my world at the helm.

The captain stands on the bridge and keeps a close eye on the river route.

Do you ever encounter difficult situations?

Of course, there are challenges – bad weather, fog, or strong winds always demand extra care. Low water levels can also make things tricky, with sandbanks narrowing the passage. But thanks to experience, teamwork, and caution, I’ve been fortunate never to experience an accident.

Where do you go when you’re on vacation?

My wife always jokes: “You’re always on vacation.” (laughs) But when I’m at home in Romania, we love to spend time at the Black Sea, which is not far from where we live.

What’s your favorite time of day?

I love starting the day with a coffee in the sunshine. Time with my colleagues is also very special. We have a fantastic team of captains on board – I’ve worked

with my fellow captain for over 30 years. We know each other inside out, and even during stressful moments, we can always rely on one another. Life on the river often does feel a little like a holiday.

"IT'S THE MANY WONDERFUL EXPERIENCES WE'VE ' HAD TOGETHER."

What are your wishes for the future?

No collisions! (smiles) And above all, good health and strength so that I can continue wearing my captain’s hat for many more years. It’s a wonderful profession, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

OUR CRUISEWORD PUZZLE

est Your River Knowledge:

Grab a pen and show us your travel knowledge. Our CruiseWord puzzle takes you on a challenging journey through the world of AMADEUS, as well as through the geography, history, and culinary traditions of Europe's most beautiful rivers.

1. Capital City of Belgium

2. Goddess said to have transformed into the Seine river (ancient French goddess)

3. Name of the AMADEUS ship that will be christened in 2026

4. High-proof apple brandy produced in the Normandy region

5. Curreny in Serbia

6. French city home to the European Parliament

7. Which composer is the namesake of one of our decks

8. High-quality mushroom species from Provence

9. German wooded region famed for cuckoo clocks

10. Rock that the cliffs of the Alabaster Coast mainly consist of

11. Last name of German lyric poet of the 19th century

12. `Type of propulsion of the AMADEUS Nova and AMADEUS Aurea

13. Austrian coffee style meaning “mixture”

14. Word-famous Dutch flower species

15. Mythical figure who leads sailors to their doom with singing

16. Front of a ship

17. Dutch mini pancakes often dusted with sugar

18. Enchanting cultural landscape in the Danube valley

19. First name of the Dutch painter whose work is closely associated with Arles

20. Term for the left side of a ship when facing forward (in direction of travel)

21. River flowing through Budapest, Vienna and Bratislava

22. Famous port city in Southern France

23. Bird species native to the Danube Delta

24. City that has been hosting the Christmas market since the 17th century

25. Home City of Lueftner Cruises, located in Austria

26. Typical Hungarian stew dish

27. Oldest City in Germany

28. Flanders' only preserved moated castle

29. Captain's command center

30. Famous sweet pastry from Nuremberg

31. Artists' square in Paris

32. European city known as the "City of a Hundred Spires"

33. Luxury bath and body brand available in our bathrooms

34. What is the number one grape variety in the Moselle region?

35. World-famous street in Ruedesheim

36. Viennese summer residence of the Habsburgs

37. Musical genius after whom Amadeus is named

38. Traditional Bavarian twisted bread sprinkled with salt

39. The city along the Seine where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake

40. Name of the ship's café

41. Iconic symbol of Paris

42. French meringue pastry made with almond flour

We are giving away a Rituals® bath set with a cozy AMADEUS bathrobe to one lucky winner. Simply scan the QR code and enter the correct solution in the online form. Best of luck!

from the Seine ouvenirs Adorable

Along the Seine, discover a river of romance and timeless beauty, shaped by artisans, farmers, and artists alike. Souvenirs are more than objects — they capture the spirit of Europe’s rich river culture. Whether meant to share with loved ones or to relive your own memories, select treasures that are whimsical, sacred, or simply unforgettable.

Macarons

from Honfleur

You might ask… “How can something so small be so memorable?” Across France, delightful macarons warm the heart and the palate. This delicate meringue sandwich cookie baked in an array of colors is especially home in Honfleur where colorful homes dot the landscape of this quaint fishing village. Ask for a box of your favorite colors for the perfect souvenir to carry home.

MACARONS ENCHANT WITH THEIR COLOURS, FILLINGS AND FRENCH CHARM.

Once you see faience, a type of tin-glazed or enameled earthenware, in Rouen’s historic library district,prepare to feel an irresistible urge to collect. Charming with detailed floral and leaf designs, faience originated in the 1500s, appearing on royal tables since the 18th century. Browse the shops and try to pick just one. A cup? A tureen? A plate? Maybe one of each will follow you home.

Ceramics of Rouen

A Portrait from paris

It’s almost impossible to think about Montmartre and not think about art as well. Montmartre is all about working artists, gathered along the lively streets capturing life with their pencil or brush. Long before the modern-day “selfie”, artists have been creating portraits, some realistic, others whimsical. As we disembark from a Seine cruise to the heart of Montmartre, only one question needs an answer. Which artist will you ask to sketch your likeness?

Camembert

from the Pays d’Auge

Once you gaze upon the Pays d’Auge landscape where cows dot the rolling hills, you’ll understand the idea or origin and excellence. Normandy’s most famous cheese, Camembert from the Pays d’Auge, is crafted from the finest raw milk and matured to perfection on spruce wood shelves. Return home with Camembert, sharing a taste of France with friends and family.

CHILLED

To taste traditional cider of Normandy is to savor history. With deep roots in the region, cider graces many French tables from breakfast to evening. Crafted from the region’s finest apple varieties, each cider is unique. Sweet, dry, light, or tangy, Norman cider awakes your palate. Enjoy an afternoon excursion to Pressoir d’Or, a charming apple farm where you taste the ciders while learning the rich history.

CIDER FROM NORMANDY
Cider from Boisemont

to the AMADEUS family Welcome

Joining the select AMADEUS Cruiser Club offers you distinguished service and amenities, from free cabin upgrades to exclusive cocktails and bonuses. Join our club after your first trip at no charge and become part of our AMADEUS family. Over time and with each river cruise, discover the true meaning of loyalty as part of our luxury travel family.

The club membership level is determined by the number of cruises you have taken with us.

It’s that simple:

Fill out the attached card and return it

• by post to Lüftner Cruises, Amraser-See-Straße 56, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

• or simply hand it in on board your AMADEUS vessel.

You can also register using our convenient online form at www.lueftner-cruises.com/club

As soon as you receive your membership card, you will be able to enjoy the full benefits of our club. If for some reason you can‘t find the postcard, then ask for one on board, call +43-512-365-781 or email club@lueftner-cruises.com

Add something special to our next edition

Have you spent relaxing yet exhilarating days on board an AMADEUS vessel, with lots of exciting discoveries and inspiring experiences? If so, why not tell us about your last cruise and help us with our next AMADEUS MAGAZINE.

Tell us which excursion you liked the best, describe somewhere special you discovered that you would recommend, or send us the best snapshot of your journey –we look forward to receiving your contribution. Please email us at magazin@lueftner-cruises.com

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Amadeus Cruiser Club Magazine_Issue 11 by Lueftner Cruises - Issuu