Colorful tulips, buttery coffee cakes and local wines were just the beginning as I was welcomed on board my river cruise. 7 days of sailing and I was ready to partake of as much as possible, and why not? It was vacation and more highlights were about to unfold. Boarding usually begins in the afternoon, but I saw the AMAWaterways ship moored early at the dock in Amsterdam and quizzically stepped on board. Smiling staff offered to take my luggage and told me to make myself comfortable in the lounge. That’s where I realized about the good things to come.
Leaving the Dock
Passengers trickled in with some tired from a long day of travel and soon the relaxation factor took effect. Later in the afternoon, two women sipping wine and nibbling on cheese, became excited as the ship pulled out from the dock and we were on our way. The movement of the ship was barely noticeable as the waters were smooth and calm on this Tulip Time river cruise. Much different than a mega ship with passengers crowded around, river cruises have less than 180 passengers and shipmates get to know each other in an informal manner.
Chocolate in Ghent
Century old windmills and colorful flowers dotted the landscape, but I was excited about the chocolate excursion to Ghent, Belgium. An added adventure was the story book town of Bruges after Ghent, making for a full day of dreams come true. Staff from the ship escorted our small group to waiting motor coaches and we began our much anticipated journey for the day. First stop was Ghent and as our tour guide walked us through the enchanting town, my nose detected sweet aromas. Not surprising, straight away was the Van Hecke Chocolate Shop. Walking past lovely displays of pastries and confections, we gathered in the narrow kitchen. Master Chocolatier Florent Van Hecke, introduced himself while he skillfully added the finishing touches to a tray of filled sponge cakes. His son Stephen, quickly filled molds from simmering vats of luscious chocolate and explained the process of chocolate making to our group. Dazzled by the tasty samples passed around, we were now in a sugary trance.
Bruges and Lace
Medieval Bruges with its undisturbed charm, looked every bit as I imagined from pictures and movies. Red and brown gingerbread looking buildings faced inward around the cobble stoned market square and the 13thcentury belfry stood out as landmark. Lace shops lined the streets as I walked up and over one of the many arched bridges and boarded a boat for a canal ride in “the Venice of the North”. The boat’s Captain pointed out graceful white swans gliding on the water and then jokingly told us to mind our heads as we passed under a low bridge.
The bus ride back to the ship was full of contented tourists just like me.
The Chef’s Table
Being in vacation mode, I almost forgot I had signed up for the Chef’s Table dining experience but arrived promptly on time for this special event. Located in a separate dining room, each table was set with crisp linens and views of the open kitchen while the chef busily prepared several courses. I was especially looking forward to the dinner since AMA is a member of the La Chaine des Rotisseurs culinary organization. The number of attendees was limited and our tablemates got to know each other by exchanging travel stories and enjoying a wine selected for each course. Hot potato soup with vegetable bonbon was just the right size before my tender rack of lamb prepared with five spice sauce was served. I even had room for dessert, a delicious lemon panna cotta accompanied by grapefruit sorbet.
Regional Food and Wine
I had the opportunity to speak with Corporate Chef Robert Kellerhals while on board. Chef Kellerhals ensures all the AMA ships in the European section follow the same culinary standards set by the company. The foods are regional and change with the seasons to provide passengers the best ingredients for each meal. Docking into the variety of ports offers the chance to shop for fresh fish, produce and wines. Chef was proud that everything is made from scratch and the rarely seen baker works through the wee hours pulling breads and Danish out of the ovens.
Guaranteeing the foods are regional ensures signature dishes are served specific to an area such as in France and Germany. Viewing castles on the Danube River while eating spätzle or petit fours along the Seine River truly enhances the cruise experience.
Amsterdam was back in sight and disembarkation would soon begin. But not before I had one last piece of coffee cake and bid the staff farewell. Until next time which I hoped would be soon.
AMAWaterways is a family owned and operated company with attention to personalized details and providing first class passenger services whether on the Danube, Rhine or Mekong rivers. It’s a journey which creates a lifetime of memories.
Disclosure: The author was a guest of AMAWaterways but expresses her own opinions.
This article has been revised.
