A very merry Vietnamese Christmas: What to expect when visiting Vietnam during this festive season

Have you seen three Santa Clauses riding a scooter? If the answer is yes, then you must be in Vietnam during December.

Although the majority of Vietnamese are Buddhists, Christmas has become an unofficial holiday for many and a very special time of year, however rather than celebrating on Christmas Day, festivities are mainly enjoyed on Christmas Eve.

Churches in some of the metropolitan cities including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh display nativity scenes, while shopping malls and hotels beautifully adorn their Christmas trees with twinkling lights and sparkling decorations for all to enjoy.

These vibrant cities come to life at night, with festive revelers spilling out onto the bustling streets. Local children are filled with joy as they witness delivery teams donning Santa Claus outfits weaving in and out of the frenzied traffic on their scooters to hand deliver special gifts to loved ones – a truly priceless sight.

One of the most memorable places to watch the Christmas excitement unfold is at St Joseph’s Church in Hanoi. This stunning 19th-century neo-gothic church can be found in the Old Quarter close to Hoan Kiem Lake. On Christmas Eve thousands of Hanoians head to the Old Quarter with friends and family to march towards the church to join midnight mass.

We asked Hien Cao our Sr. Trade Sales Coordinator who hails from Vietnam, for her top tips on the best things to see in Hanoi during December.

As mentioned above St. Joseph’s Church is a must-see. The striking 19th-century Gothic Revival church serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi. The cathedral was named after Joseph, the patron saint of Vietnam.
Hang Ma Street is a small, vibrant street in the Old Quarter that transforms from selling lanterns and paper decorations into Christmas trees, Santa Claus costumes, festive decorations and lights.
Indulge in the six-course feast with wine pairing in the classic French style Hotel Metropole Hanoi.
Plus, you must ask one of the Santa’s on a scooter for a festive photo, a memory to treasure forever.

New Years Traditions Around The World

Happy New Year! (almost!)

Many of us will be pleased to see 2020 draw to a close and will be welcoming 2021 with open arms! We all have our own New Year’s Eve traditions, from singing our hearts out to “Auld Lang Syne” and enjoying a glass of fizz (or two!) or watching a vibrant firework display with loved ones.

Around the world, cultures welcome the New Year with unique, sometimes quirky traditions of their own. Here are our favourites from some of the iconic destinations we visit.

Greece

In Greece it’s all about food…and were not talking about eating it. Pomegranates hold great significance in Greek culture, symbolizing luck, prosperity and fertility. Over the festive period families traditionally hang a pomegranate on the front door of their homes, and at midnight on New Year’s Eve the lights are turned out and the pomegranate is thrown on the floor, or smashed against the door creating an explosion of seeds. The more seeds the better, meaning the household will be blessed with luck, health, happiness and prosperity over the coming year.

Spain

Many people across the world will celebrate New Year’s Eve with wine. However, in Spain they do things a little different. Las doce uvas de la suerte, “The twelve lucky grapes” is both a tradition and superstition where Spaniards will eat 12 grapes at midnight, one at a time for each strike of the clock. This custom dating back to the late 1800’s is thought to bring a year of good luck, prosperity with each grape representing a wish to be granted.

Cambodia

To honor the Lunar calendar (The revolution of the moon), and to mark the end of the harvesting season, Cambodians actually celebrate New Year in April. Known as ‘The Three days of Khmer New Year’ this celebration is rooted in Buddhist traditions. During this 3 day celebration, fruit is left on the doorsteps of locals as an offering to the gods to bring blessings upon their homes. Relatives get together to give gifts and enjoy a special meal together. On the final day, festivities are brought to an end with families bathing loved ones in water blessed by monks to bring them health, a long life and to ask their forgiveness for past wrongs.

Turkey

New Year’s Eve (Yeni Yıl arifesi) is one of Turkey’s most popular holidays and they have many quirky traditions, here are a couple of our favourites. Red is traditionally a lucky colour at this time of year and wearing red underwear at midnight on New Year’s Eve is believed to bring good luck in the coming year. This unusual tradition is also followed in other countries including Italy and Spain. Sprinkling salt on the doorstep on your home and running the tap at midnight is also thought to bring good luck.

Germany

Germany’s capital city Berlin is host to one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Europe known as Silvester and it involves heaps of food and drink, most commonly Sekt, a German sparkling wine. A more unique tradition however is das Bleigießen or lead pouring, an old practice where liquid lead is poured into water and the different shapes and patterns it makes are read to predict the future.

Italy

Delicious food and drink play a huge part in many of Italy’s celebrations, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The evening meal usually consists of cotechino con lenticchie (sausages and green lentils), a rich hearty feast to symbolise abundance and wealth for the upcoming year. Like the Spanish ‘lucky grape’ tradition when midnight strikes the Italian’s eat 12 raisins, one to represent each month of the new year, to bring good luck throughout the year.

How will you bring in 2021?

Delicious Dining on the Mekong River: An Interview with our Executive Chef

Southeast Asia is renowned for the diversity of its cuisine, from fiery chilli-laden curries and stir fries to subtle but delicious fresh herb-infused offerings. You’ll find a plethora of tasty regional noodle dishes, famous hot and sour soups like Pho, delectable exotic fruits, and, of course, some unique local surprises.

We spoke to Executive Chef Oka Wayan who leads the talented team on board Emerald Harmony, our specially designed Star-Ship sailing through Vietnam and Cambodia along the Mekong River. Learn all about his processes for bringing tantalizing flavors to the table every day, where he finds inspiration for new culinary dishes, and what he loves most about the cuisine of this region.

Executive Chef Oka Wayan, tell us a little about yourself…

I’ve been working on the Mekong River for almost four years. I started my career on an ocean vessel when I was 19 before I gained experience working on European river ships. When I have a little free time I like to skateboard around the riverside in Phnom Penh or extend my professional knowledge by trying out new restaurants in Saigon and Phnom Penh. I’m originally from Bali and I’m 27 years old.

What does your role as Executive Chef involve?

I am responsible for all culinary aspects of this wonderful seven-night Mekong river cruise. My job involves sourcing trusted suppliers, creating delicious menus for our guests, and running the busy day-to-day operations. I’m also involved in human resources.

Emerald Waterways (and our sister company Scenic) are the only companies operating by European hygiene and safety standards, so a big part of my job has to do with training and maintaining a clean and safe working environment for my amazing team.

My background has involved working as a baker and pastry chef, so I like to create new desserts and sweet delights. It’s such a thrill to see the sparkle in the eyes of our guests who are enjoying my culinary creations.

What does a typical day in your job look like?

At 6:00am, after a coffee, I make my way to the galley to check everything is on track and running smoothly with the Baker and the Breakfast Chef. Once I know that breakfast is ready for our guests, I start giving the team jobs for preparing our delicious lunch service.

While I attend the morning meeting, my crew are busy cooking lunch and preparing dinner, but I am on hand to help when I am needed. After lunch I squeeze in a short break to relax and recharge before the evening showcase of our multi-course dinners. In the evening, guests can enjoy superb Asian-inspired dishes, plus a range of Western favourites. I also try to be around our guests as much as possible, letting me chat with them about their dietary needs and personal food preferences.

What do you love about being the Executive Chef on board Emerald Harmony?

Emerald Waterways has given me an awesome chance to evolve, develop and extend my culinary knowledge. Working for such a globally recognized cruise line is a great honour, and the feedback I receive from our guests is what drives me constantly to reach new heights. I like the freedom to choose my own menus, as well as the flexibility to amend and implement new trends, ingredients, recipes and dishes to create a memorable culinary experience for our guests.

What is your favourite space on board Emerald Harmony?

I really like the Lotus Lounge, which is a tranquil area for guests to relax and chill with a specialty tea, coffee, and snacks throughout the day. I also love the spacious galley with its state-of-the-art equipment. Unfortunately our guests can’t see it, but they can enjoy the wonderful meals and treats that are produced by our talented team in this unique kitchen. Last but not least, I like the golf putting area on the Sun Deck. I like to try for a hole-in-one every once in a while!

What’s an interesting but little-known fact about the cuisine of the Mekong River?

The French left quite a culinary footprint along the Mekong River, as did many different cultures throughout history. This melting pot of tastes, flavors and scents helps me create unique dishes, some with references to European influences, some purely Asian. And, of course, many showing the fusion between the old and the new world.

What people might not know is that each country that the Mekong River runs through regards their own Durian (a tropical fruit) as the best tasting one. Many Westerners find this hard to believe as they all are considered stinky!

How does cooking on a river cruise ship differ to cooking at a hotel?

Logistics! It’s critical to plan and be super organized when you are cooking on a river cruise ship because if I forget to buy special ingredients and items in one place, I will not have the chance to do so the next day as the vessel will most likely be in a different destination. The great advantage of cooking on a river cruise ship is that even though the galley doesn’t change, the view out the window changes all the time.

The guests on board Emerald Harmony cruise with us for a whole week. We are able to make each river cruise personal to our guests and ensure they get exactly what they expect from us –⁠ and exceed their expectations too.

What are some of the popular local dishes from the Mekong River region?

Banh Xeo is a particularly popular dish. A Vietnamese savoury pancake, Banh Xeo is commonly served in local street food stalls. It’s a real highlight at one of our lunches. Bo Luc Lac is another popular local dish. This is a beef stir fry with a special salt and pepper dipping sauce.

What local foods must our guests try on their Mekong river cruise?

The crawly critters! A real Cambodian treat are the local creepy crawlies – fried tarantula spiders, crickets, silkworms, and more. Perfect for those who have adventurous tastes!

What is your favourite dish to cook on board?

What I call ‘Royal Duck’! This is a combination of duck leg and breast with sweet mash potato and steamed carrots. I created a seven-spice mix to marinate the duck; the spices used within this mix have become a highly debated topic along the riverbanks!

How many people are in the galley on Emerald Harmony?

We have a team of five cooks, plus myself, and our dish washer who is by far the most important team member. Without him nobody would be fed!

Can you share a recipe for guests to make at home?

Papaya salad is a nice one to cook from home. Cut green papaya in small slices and add sliced bell pepper, paprika, onion, peanuts and tomatoes. Simply mix it all together and add the sauce. But the sauce recipe is top secret, so I can only tell you if you join us on board the Emerald Harmony!

What is your favourite thing to cook at home?

When I get home to Bali I normally see my family and they never let me cook for them! I always look forward to visiting my mother as she makes the best spicy fried rice in Bali.

Your Dream Escape Along the Mekong River

Feeling inspired by the cuisine of Southeast Asia? Your Mekong river cruise and land tour will be one of unrivalled comfort and intrigue with Emerald Waterways. Specially designed to sail the Mekong River and built to European safety standards and emission standards, our elegant Emerald Harmony Star-Ship will be your boutique home as you venture through this awe-inspiring region. Sample the flavors of the region, as crafted by Executive Chef Oka Wayan and his team. What’s more, our EmeraldVALUE promise means all on board dining included in the price of your holiday. Discover our complete Southeast Asia collection online.

4 Benefits of Booking a Balcony Suite on Your European River Cruise

One of the beauties of river cruising through Europe is witnessing the changing landscapes from the comfort of your ship. Experiencing the fairytale castles, rolling vineyards and charming towns for the very first time, before you set foot on shore, is a magical moment.

We believe the journey is just as important as the destination, which is why our Star-Ships are elegantly designed to offer unrivaled comfort and plenty of spacious areas to soak up the views of Europe. As well as contemporary public spaces and facilities, your suite or stateroom will become your own private haven.

Whether it’s your first time river cruising or you’re a seasoned cruiser, choosing the right suite for you is a decision you shouldn’t overlook. The privacy, coziness and amenities afforded by your suite or stateroom can make all the difference to your overall river cruise experience. When you choose a balcony suite, you can delight in a number of additional benefits. Here are four reasons why to book a balcony suite for your next European river cruise.

1. Elevated Views & More Natural Light

There is nothing quite like waking up to a serene river landscape just beyond your bedroom window. Or what could be more special than watching the sunset across a charming night sky with your loved one? When you choose a balcony suite, you can enjoy panoramic views of the passing scenery in the privacy and peace of your own suite. Rather than heading upstairs to the Sun Deck, relax in the comfortable surrounds of your suite any time of the day – and, rest assured, there will always be an exciting and new destination to spot on the horizon.

The prestigious upper level Horizon Deck of our Star-Ships boasts our biggest suites: our Owner’s One Bedroom Suites, Grand Balcony Suites, selected Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, and our Riverview Suite (for those travelling along the Douro on Emerald Radiance). When you book a suite on this deck, you can relish elevated views from a full-length balcony.

At the touch of a button, the top half of your balcony window will drop down. This innovative design transforms your room into an indoor balcony with wooden decking and seating. Welcome the refreshing river breeze, breathe in the smells of freshly baked bread from a local market, and listen out for the sounds of Europe coming to life around you. The floor-to-ceiling windows also allow your suite to be bathed in natural light, which will make it feel even more spacious, especially if you are traveling during the winter months.

2. More Space

Our Star-Ships are designed to allow you to feel as at home as possible. All of our suites and staterooms boast a wealth of amenities that you’d expect from a luxury hotel, with plush finishing touches that offer unrivaled comfort. If you are looking for additional space to unwind and put your feet up, our balcony suites are the perfect choice.

Our Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites range from 15m² to 17m² with plenty of space to unpack and enjoy your suite to the full. Situated on the Vista and Horizon Decks, Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites feature our revolutionary indoor balcony design, complete with decking area, table and chairs, providing an entirely new space for you to enjoy the landscapes you pass. The Grand Balcony Suites on the Horizon Deck measure a spacious 19m², with a slightly enlarged balcony space than Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites.

Those staying in our superior Owner’s One Bedroom Suites or Riverview Suites (on Emerald Radiance only) can unwind in a 26m² space, complete with a separate lounge and bedroom area. Unpack your suitcase in your exclusive walk-in wardrobe and unwind on your innovative outdoor private balcony.

3. Additional Benefits

As well as elevated views of the beautiful scenery and additional space, you will also receive additional benefits when booking a balcony suite. When you choose a Grand Balcony Suite, you will be treated to a number of little extras that will make your journey all the more comfortable. Take a look at our extensive pillow menu to ensure you have the perfect night’s sleep after an insightful day of exploring on shore. You can also savor delicious complimentary coffees from your in-suite Nespresso™ machine, which can be enjoyed with your pre-dinner canapés and post-dinner sweet treats, delivered straight to your door and prepare for a special occasion with a daily two-item laundry service, as standard.

When you stay in the Owner’s One Bedroom Suite or Riverview Suite (only available on Emerald Radiance), you can look forward to all of the same additional benefits and more. Relax on your private balcony with a drink from the complimentary mini-bar, restocked daily; take advantage of a daily four-item laundry service; stay in touch with loved ones while you’re away with access to your own personal iPad; and receive an exclusive invitation to dinner at the Captain’s Table.

4. Accelerated Loyalty Status

As a way of saying thank you for traveling with us, we’ve designed our EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club. Upon returning from your first trip with us, you will automatically become a Silver member, enjoying a wide range of loyalty club benefits. The structure of our EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club recognizes not only your time spent with us, but how much you spend too.

By booking a balcony suite, you can earn up to 50% more points per day on all river cruises through Europe and along the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. What’s more, you’ll have access to additional pre-travel benefits, on board rewards, and exclusive member-only savings and offers that increase in value as you progress between the three tiers (Silver, Gold and Diamond).

Choosing the Perfect Suite for You

When it comes to booking your perfect river cruise through Europe, choosing the right suite or stateroom for you is just as important as picking the destination. There are a number of things to consider, including how much space is important to you, what amenities you desire, and how much you would like to spend. Whichever cabin category you choose, you can expect contemporary interiors, plush toiletries, luscious linens, and a flatscreen TV and infotainment system as standard. Learn more about our complete choice of suites and staterooms online and select the right one for you when you book online today.

What to Expect from Small Ship Cruising with Emerald Waterways

There’s nothing quite as relaxing as exploring Europe by river. When traveling with Emerald Waterways, you’ll benefit from the small ship experience, enjoying the intimacy of small guest numbers paired with the spacious surrounds of our innovative Star-Ships.

Every part of our European river cruises has been designed with you in mind. Our fleet of Star-Ships cater from just 84 to a maximum of 186 guests, letting you meet like-minded travelers in a more intimate group, whilst allowing you to have plenty of room for yourself too.

As with all of our river cruises, you can take advantage of our exceptional EmeraldVALUE promise. So much is included in the price of your holiday, meaning you can have complete peace-of-mind while you travel. Our attentive on board crew, expert Cruise Directions and knowledgeable on shore guides will help to make your holiday truly memorable.

Here’s what to expect when you travel on a European river cruise with Emerald Waterways and the many benefits you can enjoy as part of the small ship experience.

Your choice of suites and staterooms

While you explore Europe’s wonders, our Star-Ships will be your own boutique floating hotel. Choose from our selection of suites and staterooms, all of which have been designed to be a haven of comfort as your home away from home. You can expect a wealth of sumptuous amenities, including luscious linens, a flatscreen TV with an infotainment system, and an en-suite bathroom complete with plush toiletries.

All of our suites feature an innovative and ingenious all-weather balcony system. At the push of a button, the glass slides down, enabling you to admire the views and a fresh river breeze on sunny days. The luxurious and spacious surrounds allow you to unwind during those moments you would like to spend alone, enjoying the privacy of your own sanctuary. Our staterooms provide picture windows, inviting in the natural light as you traverse Europe’s waterways.

Spacious public areas

From the Reflections Restaurants and Horizon Bar & Lounge to the Sun Deck and indoor pool*, our Star-Ships feature numerous spacious public areas to unwind in. Relax in unrivaled comfort, whether you’d like to enjoy a drink with newfound friends or find a secluded corner to yourself.

The Sun Deck runs the full length and width of each of our Star-Ships, giving you plenty of room to soak up the beautiful views ⁠–⁠ recline in one of the sun loungers with a book, take a stroll around the walking track, or talk about your travel experiences over a drink with friends.

The floor-to-ceiling windows of the Reflections Restaurant help bring the picturesque views indoors, letting you witness the serene course of your journey along Europe’s river as you dine. With a choice of tables throughout the restaurant and a diverse menu of dishes, you can dine your way and in ultimate comfort.

The Horizon Bar & Lounge offers similarly peaceful views. Sit back in one of the cozy armchairs watching the world pass by, enjoying complimentary tea and coffee all day long. The atmosphere in the evenings is more lively, making this the place to be for a night cap, a quiz led by our Activity Managers or authentic entertainment.

Room to relax alone

One of the joys of river cruising is meeting like-minded travelers. There may be times when you’d prefer to relax alone though, enjoying a peaceful haven for some ‘me time’. Our Star-Ships are designed to allow for both a social and a solitary river cruising experience.

Each of our suites and staterooms provide optimum room, letting you retreat to this private area whenever you wish. If you book one of our suites, you’ll benefit from your own innovative balcony too – a delightful corner to soak up the views and a fresh breeze without needing to visit one of the public areas.

If you are looking for a way to feel truly rejuvenated, book an appointment at our on board Wellness Center. There’s no better way to enjoy time alone than with a complete pampering session. Our salon beauticians and spa specialists are on hand to provide an indulgent spa treatment, restorative massage or even a new hair-do and manicure.

Activities to enhance your wellbeing

We understand that health and wellbeing don’t stop when you go on holiday. That’s why our European river cruises feature a number of elements that help to promote and enhance wellbeing.

Our EmeraldACTIVE program is designed for those seeking more active experiences. Why not join a guided walking tour of a local vineyard or hike through the Black Forest. If you’d prefer to get about on two wheels instead, you can embark on a small group cycling tour with our free on board bikes†. A fun and alternative way to see your destination, you’ll get the chance to explore beyond city limits including picturesque routes along the riverside.

As well as onshore activities and excursions, you can participate in an on board fitness class with our trained Activity Managers. Wake up to a morning yoga class on the Sun Deck and feel invigorated by the outdoor setting. Or put your swimsuit on for an aqua aerobics class in the indoor pool*.

If you’d prefer to exercise without guidance, visit the on board gym, which is well equipped with machines and apparatus. Allowing just a few guests at one time, you can maintain your gym routine safely. The indoor pool is also open throughout the day if you want to do a few leisurely strokes while you watch the scenery unfold through the window. On sunny days, the retractable roof allows free-flowing air while you swim.

Dining tailored to you

One of the highlights of your small ship experience will be the cuisine. Daily dining in the Reflections Restaurant is casual with no formal dress code, so you can be at complete ease as you dine on authentic regional cuisine and classic dishes. Whether you want to try authentic delicacies or home comforts, and whether you have any special dietary requirements, our expert chefs can tailor courses to suit your preferences.

Whichever way you wish to dine, our friendly crew are happy to accommodate you too. The spacious surrounds and elegant interiors of the Reflections Restaurant allow you to savor a romantic evening dinner for two or join a table with other guests to converse about your day of exploring.

At breakfast, delight in a selection of healthy options and continental favorites, while at lunch times you can choose from a light bite to eat or a heartier meal. The Terrace at the front of each Star-Ship acts as an alternative dining venue during the daytime. If you’re seeking a quieter way to dine, enjoy a light snack and refreshing drink al fresco, watching the world go by.

The small ship experience with Emerald Waterways

With Emerald Waterways, you can rest assured your next river cruise will be one of exceptional EmeraldVALUE, sailing on our intimate yet spacious Star-Ships. The low capacity of guests paired with our elegant public spaces and sumptuous suites allows for an unforgettable small ship experience.

How to Stay Healthy on an Emerald Waterways River Cruise

At the heart of Emerald Waterways is our promotion of health and wellbeing across our collection of river cruises. We understand how important health and wellbeing is to our guests. When you embark on your holiday of a lifetime with us, you can rest assured that you will benefit from numerous opportunities to stay as active as you wish, whilst also enjoying a little ‘me time’ to unwind.

Our Star-Ships are designed with your health in mind, letting you relish the small ship experience. With just a small number of guests per ship, complemented by a multitude of spacious public areas and dining options, there are plenty of components to assist your wellbeing. We also offer a dynamic program of activities, letting you tailor your river cruise to suit you. Stay fit and healthy throughout your river cruise, and return home feeling both reinvigorated and completely relaxed.

Here are just some of the ways you can maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling with Emerald Waterways.

Participate in our EmeraldACTIVE program

Enjoy the opportunity to stay active and take in the stunning views with our unique EmeraldACTIVE program. From guided hikes and bike tours† to private canoeing lessons, these activities and excursions are an exciting way to see a location from another perspective.

As well as regular walking city tours, you’re invited to participate in guided hikes beyond city limits. You’ll have access to our in-cabin walking poles, should you need them. Wander through the vineyards of Southern France, savoring a truly sensory experience for wine and outdoor lovers alike. Or choose to explore Germany’s Black Forest, learning about the native nature and wildlife of this fairytale expanse.

There’s no denying that cycling has become a big part of the culture in many European cities. If you’d prefer not to walk, you can enjoy the freedom of cycling to get out and about thanks to our onboard bicycles. Our Star-Ships carry a number of bicycles, letting you join a guided bike tour through the rolling countryside or weave a route along the riverside. The bikes are also available to take out at your leisure, letting you go on your own independent bike ride at each port.†

For those seeking adventure off the ground, we also offer canoeing lessons on select river cruise itineraries. You’ll learn from an expert instructor, navigating serene waters in exhilarating style.

With at least one EmeraldACTIVE excursion per river cruise, don’t miss the chance to participate in this exciting way to stay active while you travel. Simply look out for the EmeraldACTIVE logo within your desired river cruise itinerary.

Join a class with our Activity Managers

Whether you normally like to exercise from the comfort of your home or regularly attend fitness classes, you can enjoy similar flexibility and routine while traveling with us. You’ll be joined by our dedicated team of Activity Managers throughout your cruise.

Whatever your ability and fitness level, our Activity Managers host a number of varied fitness classes to suit everyone. Wake up to the world with an invigorating morning yoga class on the Sun Deck of your Star-Ship. Or stretch your legs during the ‘walk-a-mile’ challenge on the Sun Deck’s walking track.

If you’d like to try something a bit different, visit the indoor heated pool* at select times for an aqua aerobics class. The floor-to-ceiling windows and retractable roof let you embrace the stunning surrounds and a gentle fresh breeze while you exercise.

Savor healthy dining menus

We believe that food plays an important role in your travel experience. You can expect truly memorable on board dining experiences, with something to suit all taste buds. Our menus are carefully crafted to ensure a mix of healthy and wholesome dishes. If you have any specific dietary requirements, notify our team before you depart and our chefs will be happy to cater to you.

Begin your day with a hearty and healthy breakfast, including fresh fruit and cereals. After a morning exploring on shore, you can return to our Star-Ships for lunch – whether you’re looking for a light bite to eat or something more filling, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Evenings in the Reflections Restaurant will be one of the many highlights of your river cruise. Savor a diverse variety of dishes on our à la carte menu. Our expert chefs use fresh, locally sourced produce to create both authentic delicacies and classic British dishes.

An alternative dining venue is The Terrace at the front of each Star-Ship. On sunnier days, enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surrounds over a light snack and refreshing drink. This is the perfect secluded spot to unwind and dine.

Maintain a fitness regime on board

If you are an avid gym enthusiast, you can maintain your fitness regime while traveling with us. Our on board gym caters to only a few guests at one time, letting you exercise safely. It’s well-equipped with a range of exercise machines and apparatus, including treadmills and weights.

For those not wanting to exercise without breaking out a sweat, our indoor heated pool* is a prime location to stay active. Enjoy a leisurely morning swim or take a dip later in the day to make the most of the innovative retractable roof – on sunny days, the roof rolls back to allow for a gentle, fresh river breeze.

Rejuvenate your senses at the Wellness Centre

Staying healthy isn’t just about exercising and eating well. Our on board Wellness Centre is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate your senses. Return home from your cruise feeling completely relaxed and rested. You can indulge in a range of spa treatments for some much needed ‘me time’. Let our on board wellness team alleviate stress or aching muscles with a restorative massage. Or be pampered by our salon beauticians to a pedicure, manicure or new hair-do.

Staying healthy on your next river cruise

Whatever way you’d like to stay healthy during your river cruise, at Emerald Waterways you can enjoy plenty of opportunities to maintain your wellbeing. From our EmeraldACTIVE excursions and special fitness classes led by our Activity Managers, to delicious dining and our on board Wellness Centre, your holiday can be as active or relaxing as you wish. Learn more about our commitment to your health and safety here.