Captivating Rhine - Oct 17, 2027
(with Optional Pre/Post Stay)
Chartered EXCLUSIVELY for Sojourney Travel Homeschool Friends!COME ALONG AND LEARN GERMAN CULTURAL HISTORY WITH PROFESSOR CAROL!(High School Credit Can Be Earned!)
Journey Through Time Along the Legendary Rhine — With Special Guest, Professor Carol
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Sail through Europe’s storybook scenery while giving your student a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience!
Join Sojourney Travel and Professor Carol, expert in WWII and German cultural history, on a river cruise designed for curious minds and adventurous hearts. From Amsterdam to the Swiss Alps, you’ll explore charming towns like Strasbourg, Riquewihr, and Breisach—where cobblestone streets and castle views become the ultimate classroom.
Through guided tours, interactive talks, and real-world context, students will engage with history in a way textbooks simply can’t offer.
● Perfect for high school and middle school homeschoolers● One-half credit history course available● Family bonding, European beauty, and hands-on learning all in one
Let’s turn travel into transformation. Message us to learn more!
AmaStella - Overview
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A star of the AmaWaterways fleet, the award-winning AmaStella truly shines, her glow lasting far longer than the duration of your cruise. A centerpiece glass elevator ringed with dual curved stairways and sleek contemporary reception desk are just the introduction to the ship’s beauty and class. On board, you’ll find an inviting fireside library, fitness room with wooden floors, heated pool with convenient swim-up bar, a stunning Main Lounge, sun-deck walking track, massage and hair salon, gift shop and specialty coffee station. Unlimited wine and beer at the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table is a welcome offering for those who enjoy a bottle or brew. In your stateroom, your personal oasis of rejuvenation, you’ll find twin balconies, both a French and outside balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish. You’ll also step into a spacious glass-enclosed shower, giving you the freedom to rejuvenate without limitations.
WHAT IS INCLUDED ON YOUR 7 NIGHT CRUISE?
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SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
● 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)● Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations● Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area● Bottled water replenished daily
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
● Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes● Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages● Internet and Wi-Fi access● Sun-deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track● Fitness room, massage services and hair salon● Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar● Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
● All onboard dining in a variety of venuesRegionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients● The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant● Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner● La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience● Unlimited fresh juice and coffee with breakfast● Sip & Sail Social Hour with complimentary soft drinks, juices and fellowship● Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
● Immersive tours in every destination with Professor Carol● Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options● Bike tours and hikes● Special interest tours● Knowledgeable guides● Personal headset for easy exploration
TRAVEL WITH A GERMAN HISTORIAN!
Learn more about Professor Carol HERE.
Carol Reynolds is a musicologist who specializes in Russian, East European, and German cultural history. During her career as a professor of music history at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, she founded and directed her university’s German study program in Weimar. Since 2011, she has worked extensively as an expert for the travel division of the Smithsonian Institute, leading tours through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Russia, the Baltic countries, Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Croatia, and Slovenia.
Born in Roanoke, Virginia, she graduated from Hollins College and earned her Master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She speaks Russian and German fluently and has lived at various times in Germany.
From her home in North Carolina, Carol spends much of her time as a curriculum developer, and consultant engaged in the revival of Classical Education. With her husband Hank, a music theorist and copyright attorney, she has written books and created courses in history and the Fine Arts. She works closely with Memoria Press, Classical Academic Press, the Circe Institute, and teaches in a Great Books Masters’ Program at Memoria College.
YOUR TEAM CAN EARN HISTORY CREDIT ON THIS CRUISE!
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CF 3379. German Cultural History Cultural history will be our focus as we study German history from the 12th century to the present. We will begin with the German Medieval World, (Rhine and Wartburg Castles, legends, Medieval Christianity), then consider the effect of the Renaissance across German lands (emphasis on technology, the Protestant Reformation,).
Next we’ll explore the magnificent German Baroque (emphasizing Bach, Handel, and the opulent Würzburg Residenz and Dresden “Zwinger” Palace), as well as the Classical World of Goethe, Schiller and the rise of Prussia under Frederick the Great. After a concise survey of German Romanticism (Beethoven, Wagner, the Franco-Prussian War, and creation of a German nation in 1871), we finish the course by considering Hitler’s National Socialism, the aftermath of World War II, and the Reunification of West and East Germany. This will be a 1-credit (.5 credit) course. Lectures will be on-line in preparation for, and in response to, our Rhine journey. While on the Rhine, select classes will also be held, taking advantage of the riches around us.
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Life on Board - AT A GLANCE
Photos are representation of ship. Decor, stateroom configurations, etc are all subject to change.
TWIN BALCONIESEnjoy panoramic views and plenty of fresh air in our lavish twin-balcony staterooms that feature both a French balcony and an outside balcony. We have rooms to sleep 2, 3, and 4 and we have connecting rooms!
AWARD-WINNING DININGSavor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
INVITING PUBLIC SPACESWith fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.
SIGHTSEE BY BIKE
With a fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, you have the opportunity to explore Europe on our guided bike tours, or go discover on your own.
SUN-DECK POOLSoak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.
MASSAGE AND BEAUTY SALONAfter a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
IMMERSIVE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIESWe know homeschoolers LOVE to learn in non-traditional ways! We will have all sorts of fantastic, fun learning opportunities along the way!
FITNESS ROOMAre you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.
ENRICHING ENTERTAINMENTWhether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board. Additionally, we may have some fun music/entertainment for the Homeschool Families!
Amsterdam to Basel
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.Final Itinerary with excursions curated by Professor Carol and Sojourney Travel will be released in 2026.
OPTIONAL PRE-STAY & POST STAY2 Nights in Amsterdam Pre-Stay3 or 4 Nights in Lake Lucerne/Zurich Post-Stay
See below for descriptions of each. NOT included in cruise fare. See pricing details for optional add-ons. Tours will be determined closer to travel.
Land Package Includes:● Stays at world-class 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites● Daily breakfast at the hotel● Convenient transfers and portage service between your hotel and river cruise ship● The services of one of our extraordinary Cruise Managers throughout your journey● Enriching city tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides
Optional Pre-Stay (Day 1): ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Arrive in Amsterdam and check-in to your hotel.
Optional Pre-Stay (Day 2): AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Follow your guide through the charming capital of the Netherlands, with its iconic meandering canals, bridges and distinctive architecture. Tours TBD.
Cruise Day 1: EMBARKATION – AMSTERDAM
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 2: AMSTERDAM/UTRECHT
Sail the canals of Amsterdam, exploring all of the local charm. Dock in the heart of Utrecht, one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities, where medieval charm meets modern vibrance. Stroll along sunken canals, explore the towering Dom Tower, and browse quaint shops and cafés tucked at water level. Join a guided walking or bike tour through the historic center, or visit the Museum Catharijneconvent to see centuries of Dutch art. Return to the ship for a delicious, locally inspired dinner as the city glows at sunset—an unforgettable stop on your AmaWaterways journey. Tours TBD.
Cruise Day 3: DUSSELDORF /MANHEIM
As a leading hub for German culture, commerce, and architecture, Düsseldorf is a must-visit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you will have multiple options for the day’s excursion. Explore this grand city on the Rhine by joining a walking tour, or cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. Join a full-day tour and visit the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. Alternatively, you may opt to join a guided tour of Cologne later this day in the afternoon. (B,L,D) Tours TBD.
Cruise Day 4: RUDESHEIM
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. Or drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee is a local treat to enjoy. (B,L,D) Tours TBD.
Cruise Day 5: LUDWIGSHAFEN
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of three excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or join a guided bike tour along the shores of the river Neckar and enjoy a cycling break to explore the picturesque medieval town of Ladenburg. (B,L,D) Tours TBD
Cruise Day 6: STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la République before walking through its iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D) Tours TBD.
Cruise Day 7: BREISACH, GERMANY
Start your day in Breisach, which is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and perhaps get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, a small replica of the famous version in New York, to commemorate the sculptor’s Colmar birthplace. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike in the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions. (B,L,D) Tours TBD.
OPTIONAL Post-Cruise Stay Day 1: ZURICH/LAKE LUCERNE SWITZERLAND
TBD - OVERNIGHT IN BASEL - Tours TBD
OPTIONAL Post-Cruise Stay Day 2: ZURICH/LAKE LUCERNE SWITZERLAND
TBD - OVERNIGHT IN BASEL - Tours TBD
OPTIONAL Post-Cruise Stay Day 2: ZURICH/LAKE LUCERNE SWITZERLAND
TBD - OVERNIGHT IN Lake Lucern/Zurich - Tours TBD
OPTIONAL Post-Cruise Stay Day 2: ZURICH/LAKE LUCERNE SWITZERLAND
(3 NIGHT ADD ON FLIES HOME) After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
OPTIONAL POST-STAY (Day 5) DEPART ZURICH
After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
AmaStella - Deck Plan
Luxurious Staterooms
SAVE 15% IF BOOKED BY AUGUST 1st!
Discount is NOT reflected in below pricing. 15% is off the cruise fare, and does not apply to taxes, fees, port charges, airfare, and pre/post stay.
Suite
Suites: 301, 302, 303, 304Sleeps Up to 4 Guests$9,125 Per Person Double Occupancy$17,775 Single Occupancy
Violin Deck - French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 350 sq. ft.(Pink Section on Deck Plans)● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category AA
Rooms: 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312Sleeps Up to 3 Guests$7,785 Per Person Double Occupancy$15,097 Single Occupancy
Violin Deck - French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 235 sq. ft.(Violet Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category AB
Rooms: 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210Sleeps Up to 3 Guests$7,580 Per Person Double Occupancy$14,685 Single Occupancy
Cello Deck - French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 235 sq. ft.(Dark Pink Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category BA
Rooms: 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 323, 324**319 connects to 321, 322 connects to 320**Sleeps Up to 2 Guests$7,375 Per Person Double Occupancy$14,275 Single Occupancy
Violin Deck - French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 210 sq. ft.(Dark Blue Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category BB
Rooms: 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224**217 connects to 221, 218 connects to 219**Sleeps Up to 2 Guests$7,170 Per Person Double Occupancy$13,860 Single Occupancy
Violin Deck - French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 210 sq. ft.(Dark Green Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category CA
Rooms: 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330Sleeps Up to 2 Guests$6,550 Per Person Double Occupancy$12,625 Single Occupancy
Violin & Cello Deck - French Balcony, 170 sq. ft.(Purple Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category CB
Rooms: 331, 332, 333, 334Sleeps Up to 2 GuestsSOLD OUT!!!!
Violin Deck - French Balcony, 155 sq. ft.(Light Green Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category D
Rooms: 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108Sleeps Up to 2 Guests$5,315 Per Person Double Occupancy$10,155 Single Occupancy
Piano Deck - Fixed Window, 160 sq. ft.(Orange Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Category E
Rooms: 109, 110, 111, 112Sleeps Up to 2 Guests$5,005 Per Person Double Occupancy$9,537 Single Occupancy
Piano Deck - Fixed Window, 160 sq. ft.(Yellow Section on Deck Plans)● In-room temperature control● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Desk and chair
Pre/Post Cruise Stay Pricing
Our Company provides a vast range of services and capabilities, and a high level of competence to individuals and business owners.
Amsterdam Pre - Stay
Price: $950 Per Person Double Occupancy or $1,540 for Single Occupancy
October 14, 2026 - Depart USAOctober 15, 2026 - Arrive Amsterdam - Check into Hotel - Explore IndependentlyOctober 16, 2026 - Follow your guide through the charming capital of the Netherlands, with its iconic meandering canals, bridges and distinctive architecture. (B) TOURS TBDOctober 17, 2026 - Check out of your hotel and, before transferring to your ship, visit Zaanse Schans, observing life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village. (B,D) TOURS TBD
ALL TOURS TBD
Lucerne & Zurich Post - Stay
4 Night Price: $1,960 Per Person Double Occupancy $2,940 for Single Occupancy3 Night Price: $1,669 Per Person Double Occupancy $2,404 for Single Occupancy
October 24, 2027 - Disembark, the ship and before transferring to Lake Lucerne, go on a highlights tour of Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city. After that, depart for Lake Lucerne. (B) TOURS TBDOctober 25, 2027 - Lake Lucerne - Today, enjoy a walking tour of Lucerne, situated where the Reuss River flows into Lake Lucerne. Small cobblestone streets, squares with fountains and frescoed buildings typify Lucerne. Easily the symbol of the city, the Chapel Bridge is a medieval covered bridge and is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe. (B) TOURS TBDOctober 26, 2027 - Lake Lucerne - Zurich - Check out of your hotel and before your transfer via motorcoach to Zurich, enjoy a scenic lake cruise. As part of your included excursion, you will ascend a picturesque mountain on a cable car ride, Mount Rigi, known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” Take in breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape below. Later, check into your Zurich hotel. (B) TOURS TBDOctober 27, 2027 - (FLY HOME IF 3 NIGHT ONLY) Zurich - Switzerland’s largest city seamlessly blends its historic past with its progressive future—all of which will be on full display during your city tour. One of the top experiences in Zurich is a visit to Old Town where you will find yourself amongst medieval houses, churches and the modern Bahnhofstrasse. (B) TOURS TBDOctober 28, 2027 - Depart Zurich - After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B) TOURS TBD
All land packages include 4-5 star hotel accommodations, transportation between the ship and hotel, porterage, breakfast at the hotel, and tour options. The Cruise Manager you’ll have onboard with you for the week (or another AmaWaterways representative) will also join you at the pre and post hotels. Price excludes gratuities for tour guides and manager and airport transfers, which we can arrange.