Day One – Arrival in Nürnberg
Our first day aboard AMAwaterways’ Amasonata began with a smooth and welcoming onboarding after many long hours of travelling. Reception and cruise line staff were there to greet us hospitably in the on-board lounge. The boat is decorated tastefully with beautiful accents of red and gold, and of course, stunning sparkling trees decked in traditional ornaments are found in highly trafficked areas like the front entrance and the dining room. Sparking lights adorn the windows and stairwells, with full green garlands on railings and countertops. It’s truly like you have stepped into a land inspired by the magic of Kris Kringle.
Upon entering a welcoming lounge space, we were offered refreshments, hot and cold drinks, and traditional German sweets like Lebkuchen. As we waited for the final touches on our stateroom, we were able to meet up with the other Tourmagination travellers and connect and share in the excitement of what will be a wonderful week of festivity and Christmas cheer.
Just before dinner, all cruise mates are gathered together to meet the staff and management, as well as the Captain of the ship. The atmosphere is intimate as the ship has around 150 people on board, and the lounge is comfortable – like your best friend’s living room. Drinks are flowing, canapés are served, and a vivacious Cruise Manager takes us through the introductions of our Cruise team. Robust music is played and entertainment is provided through this warm and welcoming introduction.
Dinner is served in a wonderful dining room with an attentive and eager-to-serve staff of wonderful individuals from all over the world. The menu consists of up to 5 courses including soup, salad, appetizers, mains and dessert. There are different mains offered with close attention paid to the needs of those who prefer a vegetarian option. The staff also meet many different dietary needs as requested. The food has been authentic to the location of Nürnberg and has been colourful, well-presented, and very tasty. I enjoyed a delicious crab and shrimp cake, King Oyster Mushroom bisque, and a beautiful portion of Salmon in hollandaise with roasted winter vegetables. The plating is artful and so well designed, that it almost makes you feel bad to disturb it and take a bite! So far the food and service is beyond expectation. You don’t feel rushed, the wine pairings are on point, and the desserts are light and refreshing after a substantial main course.
The travel to arrive in Nürnberg was long which required an early night to bed. When we came back from dinner, our room had been turned down – making the beds look more than inviting. A personal touch of a small German chocolate was left on our pillows and a note from our hospitality worker left on the tv screen for us to enjoy. Slippers and robes were provided to create a homey feel. We were able to settle into our cozy beds without hesitation.
Tomorrow’s excursions consist of tours of Nürnberg with either a focus on local food fare, or city history. All tours end with a visit to the amazing Christkindl Market in the vibrant old town square surrounded by cathedrals and a rich historic feel. But first, we sleep.
– Andrea Petkau, 2023 Christmas Markets Cruise
