English-speaking cruises will be available across the entire A-Rosa River Cruises fleet from 2022.
Until now the German-owned line, which operates distinctive ships with red lips and a rose across the bow, has offered selected ‘international’ sailings where English is the main language onboard and on shore excursions.
The line is also going to re-imagine its premium all-inclusive offering to include additional experiences such as the option for waiter service at mealtimes – currently most meals are self-service buffets – an included dinner away from the ship to experience the region’s local specialities, plus welcome and farewell dinners. Free room service will also be available in every cabin grade.
A-Rosa says the enhancements will provide richer experiences for passengers in terms of discovery and authenticity plus put a greater emphasis on flexibility. Destination immersion will also be a key element, with the chance to meet winemakers, chefs and artists. New off-the-beaten-track optional excursions will be added and bikes and e-bikes will be available for guests to use independently. Twice a week local entertainers from the destinations visited will come aboard to perform.
Bringing technology to the forefront, a new A-Rosa app is being launched to personalise guests’ itineraries and will include information such as daily menus and the ability to book shore tours.
Initially the developments will be rolled out on the French rivers and on the newest ship A-Rosa Sena, launching on the Rhine in 2022, before being rolled out fleet-wide in 2023.
Additionally, from 2022 all 13 ships will become ‘international’ and welcome UK guests, which will provide a wider choice of sailing options. Currently seven ships serve the English-speaking market and five operate with German as their main language.
Lucia Rowe, Managing Director at A-Rosa River Cruises UK & Ireland said:
“Our flexible approach is getting a refresh. We’re using our 20 years of expertise to take our product to the next level and make it even more immersive and ready for the next generation of river cruisers.”
In 2023 there will also be a range of new itineraries including gourmet cruises on the Rhine, Seine and Rhone, a longer 18-night Danube Delta cruise with extended stays in Budapest and Vienna and themed voyages.
Known as the ‘River Cruise Queen’, Jeannine Williamson is an award-winning travel writer, cruise expert and our cruise correspondent, who has clocked up thousands of nautical miles.
Photographs courtesy of A-Rosa Cruises
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