getaway emerald cruises

Portuguese Holiday Getaway

• Porto > Porto

Explore the charms of Porto

The Emerald Cruises Difference

Portuguese holiday getaway choose your departure, select departure month, 13 dec 2025 > 17 dec 2025, 17 dec 2025 > 21 dec 2025, stay up to date and be inspired.

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Portuguese Holiday Getaway

• Porto > Porto

Explore the charms of Porto

The Emerald Cruises Difference

Portuguese holiday getaway choose your departure, select departure month, 13 dec 2025 > 17 dec 2025, 17 dec 2025 > 21 dec 2025, stay up to date and be inspired.

Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates, and event invites.

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'I had never been on a river cruise before and I can tell you I was so impressed'

By Shaynna Blaze | 24 hours ago

After another great experience filming The Block this year I was so thrilled to be off on my first ever Getaway trip.

And honestly, it could not have been better - all the glory of a European summer, cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers onboard Emerald Destiny from Amsterdam to Budapest. 

I had never been to Amsterdam before and by day one I was already smitten - with its charming canals, vibrant art scene and distinct architecture, it's just one big vibe! Starting my visit with a canal cruise was the best way to get my bearings and admire the beautiful canal houses.

It is a city famous for being bicycle friendly so I grabbed an ebike and pedalled my way to Waterland, just a short ferry ride from the city. Seeing my first windmill in the wild was great and the apple pie at the end made all the pedalling worth it. 

Watch the video above.

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Not only had I never been to Amsterdam but I had never been on a river cruise and I can tell you I was so impressed. Emerald Cruises offers the perfect experience with so many stops along the way to discover and explore, plus loads of time to relax onboard.

The suites are designed for the ultimate in guest comfort and it's such a treat to only have to unpack once. The sun deck is a great spot to watch the action on the river pass you by but the dining options also have great views and exceptional food. 

Next we cruised into Germany and the bustling city of Cologne. The cathedral is by far the most impressive monument with its Gothic architecture and sublime interiors but I was very keen to try the local speciality - Kolsch beer. It's quite a light and crisp beer and perfect for me who hadn't drunk a beer for about 20 years, but when in Germany…..

Back onboard and it was time to cruise through what I believe was the most spectacular part of the trip - the Rhine Gorge, with its fairytale scenery, castles and fortresses at every turn. It was a great chance to chat to the other guests up on the sun deck as we motored through to Rudesheim, possibly the most lovely town along the river.  

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Rudesheim is home to one of the quirkiest museums ever - Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum, one of the largest collections of mechanical music boxes in the world. Lovely Mary, who works there, took great joy in showing me some of the different music boxes, including the Phonoliszt-Violina, and I have to say, I really loved it. 

After a morning yoga class onboard Emerald Destiny we cruised into our next port of call, Miltenburg. Famous for its local castle built around 1200 and its half-timbered houses, still in original condition, and dating back as far as the 14th century.

At this point of the trip this was most definitely my favourite town - it was just so pretty, quaint and authentic. 

One thing I was not expecting on this trip was a take-home glass fish that I helped create. In the next town of Wertheim there is a centuries old glass blowing tradition and I was lucky enough to meet Ralf who let me help create the cutest little fish. It was one of the EmeraldPLUS experiences on our cruise and it was most definitely a highlight.

READ MORE: 'What it was like staying in a 900-year-old Japanese temple  

Still in Germany and our next stop was Wurzburg . Bit of a behind the scenes story here, but I had to do all the voiceovers for this part of the story again as we worked out we'd recorded the word Wurzburg wrong. I think there are a few ways to say it but we've gone with "Vertz-borg", said in my best German accent.

Now I absolutely loved it there, especially the Wurzburg Residence. The interiors of this palace are like nothing I've seen, I actually got goosebumps when I walked in. It was a very special experience. 

Breakfast was my favourite meal on the ship, especially sitting outside enjoying the passing view but all the food onboard is top notch. Meals were a great time to mix and mingle with the other guests and exchange stories of tour highlights. 

After Miltenburg and Wurzburg there were still a few more "burgs/bergs" to visit and the next was Bamberg. It's like a picture book where the entire old town is UNESCO listed and the architectural highlights are many, including the New Residence which served as the seat of Bamberg's Prince Bishops until the early 1800s and is a glimpse into their lavish lifestyles with opulent furnishings and even more extravagant gardens. 

Nuremberg has a much more sombre history than the other bergs as it was one of the most bombed cities in WWII - 92 per cent of the old town was completely destroyed and then later repaired and rebuilt. It was the city of the nazi party rallies with up to a million people attending every year so it really was a target.

There are certainly still some lighter moments in this town. It has a wonderful Christmas market in the main square each year and it's also the home of lebkuchen, or gingerbread, and I can confirm it was delightful.

One last burg on the list, Regensburg. It is one of Germany's oldest towns with a monument dating back to 179AD - quite unbelievable. There is a 12th century stone bridge also but surprisingly it's the sausage kitchen nearby that is more well-known. Now I don't eat meat but the crew gave it a good go and did tell me that the Regensburg sausage, with its sauerkraut, sweet mustard and caraway seed bun was one of the best.

Departing Germany and our next stop was Austria with our first port being Melk. Melk is known internationally for its Abbey, founded almost a thousand years ago when a castle was donated to the Benedictine monks and it's been a working monastery ever since. The interiors are phenomenal and the library is filled with 90,000 books and rare manuscripts.

I actually hopped off the ship with an ebike in Melk so had the ride the 32kms up to Durnstein, through charming villages, rolling vineyards, lush countryside and some of the most glorious apricot trees I've ever seen. There were little roadside stands with apricots for sale and they were just divine. 

Now I can't give it all away but there is another leg to this trip still to come and it's just as amazing. I continue further into Austria and then across to stunning Slovakia, before finishing up in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.

Watch Getaway tonight at 5:30pm on 9 and 9Now to see Shaynna's second Europe episode.

• Cruise Ships
• River Cruise

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How to Enjoy the Caribbean by Luxury Yacht—Without Actually Owning or Chartering One

Guests traveling aboard emerald azzurra and emerald sakara this winter will experience a more intimate cruise experience..

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Emerald Azzurra

Courtesy of Emerald Cruises

Get ready for a new take on the classic winter getaway— Emerald Cruises ’ 100-guest luxury yachts are heading to the Caribbean and Central America this November. When you sail on the Emerald Azzurra or Emerald Sakara , you’re guaranteed a richer, more private travel experience.

These ships visit ports accessible only to smaller vessels, allowing you to rest on quiet beaches or use the GoCycle electric bicycles for independent exploration. There’s also so much to enjoy on board—relaxing at the spa, staying active in the fully equipped gym, or partaking in thrilling water activities from the marina platform. With Emerald Cruises providing everything to ensure your voyage is as enjoyable as possible, your most challenging task will be choosing among 10 extraordinary itineraries for the ultimate escape from the cold.

Savor the yacht life

Guests sailing through the Caribbean on these modern vessels can expect a completely carefree adventure. From airport transfers to meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities, Emerald Cruises takes care of all critical aspects of the trip. And with a maximum of 100 guests onboard, the 76 crew members can provide personalized care, attentive service, and a truly fabulous winter escape.

Spacious accommodations and amenities, akin to what you’d find at an elegant hotel or resort, also await. ( Emerald Azzurra was even awarded Best New Luxury Ship in the 2022 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards.) Most of the yachts’ 50 cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies, and all come outfitted with Smart TVs providing access to international satellite TV, daily programming, and nautical positioning. After dark, rely on the soft glow of night-lit bathrooms to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

Both yachts have an open-air infinity pool on board.

And with a fine dining restaurant, a poolside café, and a lounge bar, the dining options are just as impressive, whether indoors or alfresco. The La Cucina dining room specializes in fresh, seasonal cuisine with seating indoors and on the adjacent terrace, while the warm and welcoming Amici Bar & Lounge is a convivial spot for live entertainment and for trading adventure stories with new friends. The top deck Sky Bar is a picturesque spot for watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea, or you can take a dip in the open-air infinity pool and then grab a seat at one of the lounge chairs or day beds while sipping a cocktail from nearby Aqua Café.

A new way to explore the Caribbean and Central America

When Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara begin their first Caribbean season of island hopping in November 2023, guests aboard these yachts will see dreamy winter travel destinations like Puerto Rico, St. Barths, the Grenadines, Barbados, Costa Rica, and more from a new perspective—like they’re exploring a secluded paradise on their own private yacht. And, thanks to the yachts’ compact size, they’ll also regularly moor in small harbors.

All these custom-designed routes are packed with fascinating excursions. Imagine learning about the beautiful Caribbean islands and their rich history from knowledgeable local guides and then, later in the day, opting for some independent exploration. Stroll along beaches of golden sands and azure waters, enjoy a beach barbecue, then use the ships’ award-winning GoCycle electric bicycles to discover more. With electronic assistance available if you need it, these bikes offer a smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride, making them ideal for exploring these charming Caribbean communities.

Make use of the marina platform to go kayaking or paddleboarding.

On selected days, the captain will drop anchor and deploy the marina platform at the yacht’s stern for various water activities. Inflatable kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and SEABOB water scooters help you make the most of the tropical surroundings. Snorkel kits make it possible to dive deep into the crystal-clear waters and marvel at vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life, while the Aquaglide trampoline allows you to spot distant islands from high above.

Choose your adventure

Emerald Cruises offers 10 distinct itineraries through this region, all full of natural beauty, abundant beaches, and cultural diversity. Each one offers plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and unwind to your heart’s content while discovering hidden coves, mangroves, and waterfalls scattered throughout the islands and coastlines.

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape with a distinctly European vibe, an excellent choice would be the eight-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Barth’s itinerary. Travel from Barbados to St. Martin, visiting intimate ports in the Windward and Leeward islands. One of the highlights is Terre-de-Haut in Îles de Saintes, where the colorful streets are evocative of the South of France. In Antigua, traces of British rule are still evident, while the French influence in Gustavia on St. Barths is visible in the historic wooden houses and upscale shopping and dining options.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, the eight-day Coastal Adventures: Costa Rica & Panama itinerary is tailormade for you. This journey follows the Pacific coast of Costa Rica , with stops at the magnificent Curú National Wildlife Refuge to admire the country’s abundant biodiversity. The next stop is the pristine white sandy beaches of Isla Tortuga before heading to the bustling harbor town of Quepos. Next, you can swim or surf at Golfito Bay before continuing to Panama.

Chef Ben Robinson

Food lovers won’t want to miss the eight-day Hidden Gems of the Caribbean with Chef Ben Robinson itinerary. On March 2, 2024, Emerald Sakara will sail from Puerto Rico to Antigua and Barbuda for this once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure with chef Ben Robinson of Bravo TV’s Below Deck . While island hopping, guests will enjoy a live cooking demonstration, a Q&A session, and up to three custom-tailored evening menus prepared by Robinson. He’ll also lead an exclusive culinary excursion that promises to be unforgettable.

Regardless of your itinerary, vacationers seeking an exceptional tropical getaway this winter should look to Emerald Cruises for that private yacht feeling without having to own or charter one. Don’t miss out on this chance to take a remarkable trip through the Caribbean and Central America with Emerald Azzurra or Emerald Sakara during the 2023 and 2024 winter seasons.

Save up to 50% on European River Cruises!

Are you looking for an incredible European river cruise at a terrific price? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Sail in a beautifully appointed ship past amazing landscapes to cities and towns along the river. Some trips also include a hotel stay before or after your river cruise.

Accommodations, many meals and beverages, guided sightseeing and more are covered in the upfront price. Plus, the discounts and deals offered on this site will greatly reduce the amount you pay.

Our fast and friendly River Cruise Specialists will save you time in the planning process, too. Please give us a call and we’ll be happy to help!

Now in our 41 st year, Vacations To Go is the largest cruise-selling company in the world. We've built a reputation for discounts, service and professionalism that is second to none.

Price Guarantee We work with every major river cruise company in the world, and you'll find their lowest authorized prices on this site. However, if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and stateroom category, before booking, we'll match it.*

Service Guarantee Our cruise counselors are fast and friendly. However, if you are ever dissatisfied with any aspect of our service or our Web site, please click here to tell me about it. I will respond as quickly as possible, and always within 24 hours.

* The lower rate must be advertised on a competitor's website and available for booking at the time you contact us; offer does not apply to group rates.

Save up to 50% on River Cruises!

First-Time Visitors

Since 1984, Vacations To Go has helped more than 8 million vacationers save hundreds of millions of dollars on cruises. We can help you find the perfect river cruise at the lowest possible price.

We represent all the major river cruise operators and offer the best discounts and deals on every sailing. Use the search options on the left to find your cruise now.

Our fast and friendly river cruise specialists will make planning and booking easy. Please give us a call and we'll be happy to help!

Now in our 41 st year, Vacations To Go is the largest cruise-selling company in the world. We've built a reputation for discounts, service and professionalism that is second to none.

Price Guarantee We work with every major river cruise company in the world, and you'll find their lowest authorized prices on this site. However, if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and stateroom category, before booking, we'll match it.*

Service Guarantee Our cruise counselors are fast and friendly. However, if you are ever dissatisfied with any aspect of our service or our Web site, please click here to tell me about it. I will respond as quickly as possible, and always within 24 hours.

* The lower rate must be advertised on a competitor's website and available for booking at the time you contact us; offer does not apply to group rates.

Comedian Lizzy Hoo spends a wonderful 8 days on Emerald Liberté cruising through France

With its quaint countryside, Roman ruins, rolling vineyards and incredible architecture, it's no wonder France has become one of the world's most popular travel destinations.

Special guest presenter, comedian Lizzy Hoo spent a wonderful eight days on Emerald Liberté cruising through the heart of Burgundy and Provence. 

Join Emerald Cruises on a luxury France river cruise through Provence & Burgundy. All meals with complimentary drinks at lunch and dinner, many shore excursions, and more are included. 

Secure your unforgettable 2024 or 2025 departure today with super early bird savings up to $1,800 per person. Getaway viewers can save an additional $250 per person off the Emerald Cruises river cruise collection. 

For more information, visit emeraldcruises.com.au/getawayoffer , call 1300 390 386 or speak to your travel advisor. 

Information correct at 02.12.23 Terms, travel dates and conditions apply 

Highlights: 

Lizzy's travels started in the foodie's heaven of Lyon, and meandered all the way through to Arles, the location of some of Van Gogh's most famous paintings. Taking in the beauty of the countryside at every turn of the river, surely there was no better way to explore it than aboard Emerald Liberté. 

The first stop was Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Rich in heritage and storybook charm, the included excursion started with a visit to the Hospices de Beaune, one of France's most prestigious historic monuments. Built in 1443 as a palace for the poor, the former medieval hospital complex has now been refurbished as a museum and world renown wine estate. Being one of the oldest and most celebrated wine regions in France, it's surprising that Burgundy has only recently found its way onto the world wine stage. Lizzy spent a lovely afternoon at the cellar door Loubet Dewailly in the centre of Beaune, with a guided tasting of their many wine varieties. 

Emerald Liberté has only 67 guest suites, creating an intimate and personalised cruising experience. Holidaying is all about balance, and after a full day of sightseeing, being back on board slows down the pace for you to relax in luxury. Enjoy a drink on the sundeck, have a dip in the heated resistance pool, or take in a yoga class. The spa facilities are another way to refresh and rejuvenate after a day of touring. 

As the sun rose on another glorious day, the Star-Ship delivered Lizzy to the beautiful town of Perouges. Considered a Gothic treasure, the village has remained relatively unchanged since the middle ages. Lizzy navigated the narrow alleyways of the fortified village that are so picturesque they have been used as movie sets. The town was all but abandoned in the 19th century, but thankfully it was restored and is now popular with tourists. When in Perouges it is traditional to try a galette, a buttery sugary pastry washed down with a glass of local sparkling rosé wine. 

If you like to keep busy on holiday, the energetic EmeraldActive program is for you. Options include hiking through vineyards and canoeing. In Tournon, Lizzy grabbed one of the onboard bikes and set off to explore the home of shiraz wines. The guided bike tour showcased rural French life, even stopping at an orchard to try a perfectly ripe, freshly picked apricot. 

One of the best things about small boat river cruising is direct access to charming towns like Viviers. During the middle ages it was a rich and thriving village with a strategic position overlooking the Rhone. These days it's a delightful place to spend a few hours revelling in the history and the views. 

Continuing through the dreamy region of Provence, Emerald Liberté docked at the historic town of Avignon. With a full day to look around, Lizzy started the morning with a guided canoe tour. Paddling under the iconic Avignon bridge was an experience to remember. While the bridge has become a trademark of the town, the main attraction is the Palais du Pope, or Pope's Palace. Dominating the centre of town, it's one of the largest medieval gothic buildings in Europe. Once the refuge of seven consecutive Pope's, it is now a centre of tourism, art and culture. 

The Provence region is just as famous for its food as for its architecture and history. One of the highlights of the cruise was having celebrated French chef Fabien Morreale on board. He served a three course provencal style menu celebrating local produce and traditional recipes with a modern twist. The dining experiences weren't the only memorable moments onboard, with fellow guests telling Lizzy how much they enjoyed how tranquil river cruising was. Another highlight was the endless scenery out of the drop down balcony windows of the Panorama Balcony suites. It was just like a boutique floating hotel with an ever changing view! 

Delivering all the magic of the French countryside, the next village was the definition of Provence, and claims to be one of the most beautiful in France! The high rocky outcrop of Les Beaux is crowned by a ruined castle which stands as a testament to its turbulent past. Cobblestone streets are dotted with tiny shops selling the region's finest olive oil, soaps, lavender and another regional speciality, nougat. 

After cruising for 8 days the final port of call was the ancient city of Arles. The town's 2000 year history is all on show, from the massive Roman amphitheatre, to tracing the steps of one of the masters of painting. Vincent Van Gogh spent over a year in Arles, transfixed by the clarity of the light, and some say he made Arles what it is today. He was inspired to create a community of artists, and had a very productive but sometimes troubled time. Lizzy visited the L'espace Van Gogh, the hospital where he painted whilst he was a patient. Standing in the courtyard was just like being inside one of his famous paintings. 

Lizzy experienced so much on her Emerald Liberté sensational river cruise. From wandering the secret passageways of Lyon's old town, the storybook charm of medieval castles, canoeing and cycling through the French countryside to sampling the best food and wine Provence has to offer. The entire journey was nothing short of incredible. 

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Portuguese Holiday Getaway with Lisbon

• Lisbon > Porto
• Porto > Lisbon

Explore the charms of Porto and Lisbon

The Emerald Cruises Difference

Portuguese holiday getaway with lisbon choose your departure, select departure month, 14 dec 2025 > 21 dec 2025, stay up to date and be inspired.

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Cruise Routes (Interactive Map)

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Russian River Cruises

• Find your cruise
• Moscow — St. Petersburg
• Moscow — Astrakhan
• Astrakhan — St. Petersburg
• St. Petersburg
• Cruise Highlights
• News & Travel Tips

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Moscow to Saint Petersburg

13 days – 12 nights

Collapse Full Itinerary

Gold, Platinum  Airport transfer / Check-in at centrally located Marriott Aurora***** or Ararat Park Hyatt*****

Imperial : Private airport transfer / Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Moscow***** only a minute from the Kremlin and Red Square

Volga dream experience:

Gold: City Tour / Novodevichy Cemetery Imperial, Platinum:  City tour / Lunch in a Moscow City Skyscraper / Novodevichy Cemetery / Sparrow Hills

Meals: Breakfast

Platinum / Imperial

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Gold:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / GUM Department Store

Platinum:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / St. Basil’s Cathedral / GUM Department Store / Park Zaryadye

Gold:  Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Platinum:  Leo Tolstoy House-Museum in Hamovniki / Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gold, Platinum:  Town of Uglich / Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood

Volga dream experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Gold, Platinum:  Yaroslavl City Tour / Governor’s house 

Volga dream experience: Sun Deck Barbeque

Gold:  Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery  

Platinum:  Ferapontov Monastery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Gold, Platinum: Kizhi Island / Lake Onega

Volga dream experience: Piano Concert – Compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Gold, Platinum:  Svirstroy village / Local resident’s home / Local primary school

Volga dream experience: Farewell Dinner, Captain’s cocktail

Gold:  City Tour / Peter and Paul Fortress

Platinum:  City Tour / St. Isaac’s Cathedral / Canal boat / Yusupov Palace

Gold:  The State Hermitage Museum / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Platinum:  The State Hermitage Museum (Early Entrance!) / Gold Room / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Gold:  Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Platinum:  Faberge Museum / Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Meals: Breakfast / Imperial

Gold, Platinum, Imperial: Check-out / Airport transfer

Volga dream experience: -

The rates are set for a cruising season. The price is not dependent on the month within a selected year

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All prices are per person based on double occupancy.

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Actual size of cabins can slightly differ within one category.

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Journey: Volga Dream

Price per person: not specified