I've recently returned from a fantastic five days aboard AMADEUS' spectacular ship, AMADEUS Cara, and wanted to give you an insight into all the fleet has to offer, as well as share some of my highlights from my trip along the magnificent Dutch Waterways.
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AMADEUS' award-winning ships will take you on a journey down Europe's famous rivers in spacious settings that offer contemporary luxury and complete relaxation. Step aboard, sample the local cuisine and wines, and let their attentive staff make every moment effortless as you explore each destination...
The whole experience was seamless from start to finish, I stepped straight onto the ship and was greeted at reception and shown to my cabin in minutes. The ship is so elegant and chic with lots of beautiful fabrics and furnishings that offer the perfect mixture of timeless and modern luxury.
My cabin was extremely spacious and was equipped with a huge walk-in wardrobe and the biggest bathroom I've ever seen on a ship, featuring a full-length walk-in shower and a powerful rainfall head. The lighting was brilliant throughout, with the electric drop-down window making it bright and airy inside.
Despite there only being one dining venue on board, we were spoilt for choice each day. The menu changes daily and all three meals are served to your table by their wonderful crew. One of the best things about a river cruise is that their crew is quite small, meaning waiters and bartenders are quick to get to know you, your likes and dislikes.
The Gala Dinner was a definite highlight for me with some incredible dishes being served and the spectacular finish of the baked Alaska, which was paraded through the restaurant with sparklers!
One of my favourite parts of river cruising is the central docking location of the smaller ships like AMADEUS Cara. Being docked right in the heart of the city makes access to local sights, shops, and activities completely seamless. You can simply step off the ship and start exploring, then return easily for a meal or a rest before heading out again. It adds such a relaxed and effortless rhythm to your holiday.
My favourite day on board had to be when we docked in Rotterdam and visited Keukenhof Gardens. After enjoying a beautiful breakfast on board—fresh pastries, fruit, and panoramic views of the bustling harbour—we explored the dynamic city. Rotterdam’s modern architecture, vibrant street art, and lively waterfront offered a fascinating contrast to the historic charm of other Dutch cities. We wandered through the iconic Markthal, admired the Cube Houses, and soaked in the energy of this innovative urban landscape. We then hired bikes and cycled to the iconic Euromast, where we ascended to take in the breathtaking 360-degree views from above, from the busy port to the serene parks and rivers. With the ship docked right in the heart of the city, it was so easy to return for a relaxing lunch on board before continuing our adventures.
In the afternoon, we boarded a coach for a beautiful scenic ride through the Dutch countryside on our way to Keukenhof Gardens. The journey itself was a pleasure, passing vibrant green fields, traditional farmhouses, and canals lined with blossoming trees. Arriving at Keukenhof, we were immediately immersed in a sea of colour. Millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths stretched out in perfect harmony, creating breathtaking floral displays at every turn. Meandering through the gardens was a serene and awe-inspiring experience that perfectly finished an unforgettable day on our river cruise.
