EmeraldEXPLORER Issue 3

Issue Three 2020

EmeraldEXPLORER

WHAT’S NEW IN EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES FOR 2021 EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES ON THE MEKONG WINE EXPERT SARAH S. LOOPER RIDE THE WAVE … TO SAVINGS

Lisa Norton Vice President, Emerald Waterways US

Editor’s Letter Welcome to the third issue of EmeraldEXPLORER, a magazine produced exclusively for our Emerald Waterways' loyalty guests.

It has been a busy start to the New Year, and I am excited to share our latest news with you over the following pages.

In this issue, we take a look at our newest European river cruises for 2021, as well as one of our newest Star-Ships Emerald Harmony.

We also hear from wine expert, Sarah S. Looper, who will be accompanying our Flavours of Burgundy & Provence River Cruise this July.

Also featured are the latest awards we received and our current offers.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue, and we look forward to seeing you on board one of our StarShips in the near future. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and your Emerald Waterways adventures with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Contributors Ben Hughes and Gus Sivak

Page 2

CONTENTS

04 What’s New in European River Cruises for 2021 Exciting new cruises on Europe’s greatest waterways

12 Ride the Wave … to Savings Enjoy savings of up to $2,400 per couple

18

08 Emerald Harmony: Exceptional Experiences on the Mekong Learn about one of our newest Star-Ships

14 Wine expert on Flavours of Burgundy Cruise Hear from wine expert, Sarah S. Looper

22

The Awards Keep Coming …

EmeraldEXPLORER

Best Cruise Line for Value for 5 years in a row

Learn about our Emerald Waterways loyalty club.

Page 3

WHAT’S NEW IN EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES for the upcoming 2021 season

by Ben Hughes

The calendar may have just turned over to 2020, but at Emerald Waterways we’re already looking “downriver” to 2021, with some exciting new cruises on Europe’s greatest waterways. They include a tulip time cruise in Holland and Belgium and very special voyage through the most picturesque stretches of the great Rhine and the meandering Moselle.

Page 4

Page 5

Springtime Delights: The Netherlands & Belgium Departing from and returning to Amsterdam, this 10-day cruise immerses you in the springtime enchantment of the Low Countries.

A definite highlight is world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, 80 acres of themed gardens that explode into bloom in a springtime extravaganza. You’ll also wander the impressive grounds of the Kröller Müller Museum, located within Hoge Veluwe National Park, and cross into Belgium to take in the country’s renowned culinary delights on a guided walking tour of Antwerp. A marvel of another sort awaits on your visit to the awe-inspiring Delta Works, the vast network of storm barriers that has been named one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. In Rotterdam, embark on a special architectural tour that showcases the modernist buildings that arose from the rubble of World War II. At the finish, we return to the Holland of old, with a walking or cycling tour of medieval Haarlem.

Legendary Rhine & Moselle: Germany This 8-day voyage takes us through some of Europe’s most-beloved river landscapes, including the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge and its castle-topped hillsides. Medieval Bavaria comes to life during excursions to UNESCO World Heritage-listed towns, where fascinating fortresses tell military tales. Wine-lovers will relish a journey to the center of the Franconian wine country to taste local produce in the beautiful setting of the Bishop’s Cellar in Würzburg, before an insightful on board lecture on regional varietals. We’ll also explore ancient Koblenz, where a triangular river park called Deutsches Eck — the German Corner — marks the convergence of the Rhine and Moselle. Enchantment lies just ahead as we wind along the Moselle among steep vineyards and turreted castles to the wine town of Bernkastel. Here, in a fitting conclusion to your trip, you’ll be invited to taste fine local vintages within a truly majestic surrounding.

We previewed Legendary Rhine & Moselle this year, by the way, and it was such a hit that we’ve made it a permanent part of our schedule.

TAKE ME THERE...

Extend your stay and explore further in some of Europe’s most iconic cities.

For our full collection of city stays visit emeraldwaterways.com or call us at 877 796 8403 Colmar

Page 6

Keukenhof Garden

Berlin

Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, Koblenz

To book either — or both! — of these river cruises for 2021, see your travel professional or call Emerald Waterways at 877 796 8403. And remember, the sooner you call, the better your chance to secure your preferred sailing date and cabin category.

Pre-order brochure

Page 7

EMERALD HARMONY: EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES ON THE MEKONG

by Ben Hughes

Emerald Harmony, Ho Chi Minh City

There’s no other river in the world quite like the Mekong.

by Ben Hughes

And no other ship cruising it like the Emerald Harmony. With its soothing, Asian-influenced décor, generous amount of public space, and spacious suites and staterooms, it marks a new standard for cruising this great river.

Cruise to the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City “Cruising the Mekong River is unique,” said Joe Luchison, Brand Manager of Emerald Waterways. In the lower Mekong River, including

Ho Chi Minh City

Page 8

the legendary Mekong Delta, he explained, water levels fluctuate enormously with the season.

At times, the river can be quite shallow, so river vessels must have a shallow draft and the ability to navigate around the occasional sandbar. On the other hand, the approach to Ho Chi Minh City, the vibrant, dynamic city once known as Saigon, requires passing under a number of low bridges, so a vessel cannot be too high.

Because Emerald Waterways designed the Harmony specifically for boutique cruising on this great river, said Luchison, they were able to strike the perfect balance “It’s got the hull configuration to provide full access to the enchanting ports and river villages along the Mekong between the Delta and Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. And, unlike most river cruise vessels on the Mekong,

the low-profile design enables it to cruise up the Saigon River into the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Passengers on the Emerald Harmony will travel into this amazing river city by boat, not bus, which is the way it should be.”

Going Green Sensitivity to the Mekong’s environment was also a prime consideration. Emerald Harmony is the first Star-Ship to do away with all single-use plastics. Each guest will be provided a complimentary metal water bottle to carry on excursions, and reusable glass water bottles are provided in every suite. Both can be refilled at purified water stations on board. In addition, only recyclable bamboo and paper straws are used, and refillable dispensers replace miniature soaps and shampoos, making the Harmony, at it’s launch,

the “greenest” ship in the fleet, and possibly on the entire Mekong.

By the end of 2020, Luchison added, all of Emerald’s Star-Ships will be similarly equipped.

Service, Space, Views “There are a couple of factors that make river cruising almost unique in the world of travel,” said Luchison. “Unlike ocean cruising, you’re traveling through a constantly changing panorama of scenery. That’s especially true on the Mekong, where you might watch the sun rise over emerald green rice paddies in the morning, later spy a miniature temple peeking from the forest or wave to children living in a floating village, then perhaps see the moon rising from the Sun Deck in the tropical evening. It’s essential to have good views from everywhere on ship.”

Also, he said, “This is an extraordinarily personable and intimate form of travel. You’ve got a relatively small number of travelers — a maximum of 84 on board the Emerald Harmony — so it does not take long before a real feeling of camaraderie arises.

We’ve had guests who return from our cruises remarking as much about the friendships they’ve formed as about the sights they’ve seen.” He also noted that guests onboard the Emerald Harmony will enjoy an extraordinarily attentive level of service, thanks to the nearly two-to-one ratio of passengers to crew members.

Lotus Lounge

The Emerald Harmony satisfies on all counts, he said, with ample space for viewing the scenery, as well as places that make it easy to meet and mingle. Starting up top, guests will be able to enjoy the open-air Sun Deck, with 360° views, a putting green and games area, a walking track, and space for just relaxing and taking in the passing scenery. It’s partially covered, handy for avoiding the midday sun or a passing shower.

One level down is the Pool Deck, where, in addition to the pool itself, the open-air Pool Bar is sure to be a favorite. The main gathering area on board, the spacious Horizon Bar & Lounge, is found in aft, or rearward, section of the Horizon Deck. It features seating in a number of configurations for chatting with friends, playing cards or just settling in to read a book or write postcards. Regardless of where one is seated, floor-to-ceiling windows provide fabulous views.

For a quieter, more intimate seating area, guests can make their way forward to the Lotus Lounge, a “secret space” located in the forward section of the main Vista Deck. It’s the perfect spot for contemplating this ancient river and waiting to see what appears around the next bend. One of the Emerald Harmony’s 24-hour tea and coffee stations can be found here; the other is located in the Horizon Lounge.

Our friendly staff

TAKE ME THERE...

Sail to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City on one of our cruises through Vietnam & Cambodia. Cruise from $2,195 per person.

Pool deck

For more information visit emeraldwaterways.com/ river-cruises/southeastasia or call us at 877 796 8403 Page 9

Tropical cocktail

Panorama Balcony Suite

Fresh, Locally Sourced Menus The Vista Deck also serves as the location of the Reflections Restaurant, where guests will gather for meals. Menus feature a choice of dishes inspired by the tasty and healthful cuisine of Southeast Asia. Ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible, and prepared fresh on board by the Emerald Harmony’s talented chefs and kitchen staff.

Guests will also have a choice of Western favorites, ranging from filet mignon to classic pasta dishes.

Guests begin the day by selecting from the generous breakfast buffet, which includes pastries, fruit, cereals, hot and cold dishes and an omelet station. Lunches are generally served buffet style as well. Beer, wine and soft drinks are always complimentary with lunch and dinner. Reflections Restaurant features open seating, so guests may sit wherever they like.

The Horizon Lounge The contemporary-style Horizon Bar & Lounge is the heartbeat of the Emerald Harmony. This is where guests are welcomed by the Captain and crew, where

Page 10

they’ll gather for informative port talks hosted by their Tour Director and where evening lectures and entertainment programs take place. At the bar, the Harmony’s skilled mixologists serve up classic cocktails and a fabulous selection of beer and wine, as well as a variety of creative and refreshing “mocktails.”

Suites and Staterooms: Your Private Sanctuary The Emerald Harmony’s 40 suites and staterooms feature a contemporary style that’s influenced by the traditional motifs of Southeastern Asia. Guests will find them exceptionally roomy, ranging from the 256-square-foot Emerald Staterooms all the way up to the Owner’s One-bedroom Suites. The ultimate in indulgence, the two Owner’s Suites have separate bedroom and living room area, a walk-in wardrobe and a 320-square-foot terrace with a private Jacuzzi.

Regardless of category, each of these private sanctuaries comes equipped with the amenities one would expect to find in a worldclass hotel. Guests will enjoy a restful sleep in a queen or twinsize bed. All categories feature an ensuite bathroom, toiletries and bath robes.

The HD flat-screen television features on-demand films, as well as a selection of international news and entertainment channels. Free Wi-Fi makes it easy for guests to keep up with loved ones and to post pictures and updates from their extraordinary vacation on the Mekong.

Mind & Body Fitness-minded guests will find a well-equipped exercise area on the Riviera Deck, with several treadmills and elliptical machines, dumbbells, exercise balls and other fitness equipment. The Riviera Deck is also the location of the Salon and Wellness Area. Here, appointments can be made for hairdressing, facials, manicures, or a soothing massage. There’s even a self-service laundry adjacent to the Fitness Area.

Flavors of Asia

Emerald Harmony ITINERARIES Guests looking to cruise on this innovative new ship can choose from a variety of itineraries. A selection of 13-, 17- and 21-day cruise and land tours combine an 8-day sailing between Siem Reap, Cambodia and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam with overnights in Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An, Vietnam, at beginning or end of the cruise. Daily excursions for all itineraries are aimed at revealing the local culture and history.

Angkor Thom

Buddhist monks Halong Bay

TAKE ME THERE...

Sail to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City on one of our cruises through Vietnam & Cambodia.

Cruise from $2,195 per person.

For more information visit emeraldwaterways.com/ river-cruises/southeastasia or call us at 877 796 8403

Grand Palace Statues

Street food

Page 11

Ride the Wave… TO SAVINGS Savings of up to $2,400 per couple

by Ben Hughes

TAKE ME THERE...

Last chance for up to free flights or savings of up to $2,400 per couple For our full collection of itineraries visit emeraldwaterways.com or call us at 877 796 8403 Page 12

What’s better than exploring some of the most extraordinary destinations on earth with Emerald Waterways? How about doing so while enjoying savings of up to $2,400 per couple?

2020 European River Cruises

2020-21 Egypt, the Nile, Israel & Jordan River Cruises & Tours

FLY FREE

FLY FREE

WHEN YOU RESERVE A SUITE, CATEGORY C AND ABOVE

WITH OUR 15+ DAY ITINERARIES

FLY FOR JUST $295

FLY FOR JUST $495

PER PERSON WHEN YOU RESERVE AN EMERALD STATEROOM, CATEGORIES D, E OR F

PER PERSON WITH OUR 10-DAY CAIRO & ANCIENT EGYPT RIVER CRUISE

Plus

Fly Free & Premium Drink Package on 15-day itineraries A value of up to

A value of up to

$2,400 per couple!

$2,400 per couple!

2020 Dalmatian Coast Yacht Cruises

2020-21 Southeast Asia River Cruises & Tours

FLY FOR JUST $295 PER PERSON ON ITINERARIES OF 16 DAYS OR LONGER

FLY FREE TO SOUTHEAST ASIA

FLY FOR JUST $495

WITH ANY 13- TO 21-DAY MEKONG RIVER CRUISE & TOUR

aboard the new Emerald Harmony

PER PERSON ON ITINERARIES OF 8 TO 13 DAYS

A value of up to

$1,400 per couple!

A value of up to

$2,400 per couple!

Now and through March 31, 2020, guests can take advantage of these “Ride the Wave” special savings on all of our 2020 Emerald Waterways cruises and tours: Guests who take advantage of these savings will enjoy all the benefits that inspired the editors of Cruise Critic to name Emerald Waterways the Best River Cruise Line for Value for the fifth year in a row.

Our “Ride the Wave” sale ends March 31, 2020, To book your preferred travel date or stateroom before they are gone, contact your professional travel advisor or call 877 796 8403 today to reserve your space.

Pre-order brochure Page 13

Wine Expert ON FLAVOURS OF BURGUNDY CRUISE Opportunities for sampling and learning

by Ben Hughes

Page 14

Wine Expert, Sarah S. Looper, will be joining our cruise host, Joseph Rosendo on our July Flavours of Burgundy & Provence departure.

This will be a memorable cruise not to be missed.

The Flavours of Burgundy & Provence itinerary already provides many opportunities for sampling and learning, with a visit to a truffle farmer, a wine tasting in Beaujolais, an overnight stop at the famed Tain l’Hermitage wine commune, a visit We had the opportunity to chat to a renowned chocolatier, a wine with Sarah to get more insight tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, on her background and see why and a stroll through Lyon’s famed she's looking forward to this Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse cruise. Sarah's "aha" moment gourmet food market. Sarah and with wine occurred while she was the Emerald Waterways staff are working as a pastry cook at Lever still putting the finishing touches House, the legendary New York on integrating her program with restaurant. “The wine director, a the existing itinerary, but guests wonderful woman by the name can look forward to joining her for of Moriah, came back to the private wine tastings, winery tours kitchen with an unfinished bottle and wine masterclasses. All of the of Gaja Barbaresco, the famous culinary bounty of Burgundy and wine from Italy’s Piemonte Provence is worth celebrating, as region. She poured me about 2 far as Sarah is concerned. “I look ounces. When it hit my palate forward to all the food: cheese, my brain went kaleidoscopic. olives, olive oil, herbs, fruits, local The finish was extraordinary and meats, saucissons, pâté and of deep and like nothing I had ever course, the wine. I am also a lover tasted or experienced.” of sweet wine and eau de vie, and I cannot wait to see what's That magical first sip set Sarah available!” on a journey that has taken her far and wide in the world of Far from the cliché of a starched wine, including to the doorstep and snooty wine expert, Sarah is of earning the Master Sommelier open, friendly and nonjudgmental. designation from the Master Court Her philosophy about wine is one of Sommeliers, the most rigorous of sharing. “I certainly don't know certification in the world for wine everything about wine — no one servers. This summer, it continues does, no matter what designation as she joins guests on the July 11, 2020 departure of Flavours of Burgundy & Provence. It’s an opportunity during which she wants to help guests experience their own “aha” moment, as they discover the bounty of Burgundy and Provence.

Sarah S. Looper

Artisanal chocolates

they have after their name. There are always opportunities for me to learn. Besides, wine is about conviviality — it's not a smart contest. I am not here to judge.

I never want to 'yuck' someone else's 'yum’!”

At her moment of revelation about what wine could be, she had already been accepted into the Baking and Pastry Certificate program at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America’s California campus. She vowed to combine her baking studies with a crash course in wine, and took a job as a wine steward at the institute, assisting the beverage director with daily maintenance of a 35,000-bottle cellar. The job, which she described as physically and mentally demanding, was humbling, but ultimately lifechanging. “I had come from high falutin’ New York restaurants and thought I really knew my wine.

Boy, did I have a lot to learn.”

Tournus

Page 15

Avignon

As she was studying wine and delving deep into the cellar’s inventory, ultimately coming up a new way to organize the European wines, she was presented with a last-minute opportunity to sit for the Introductory Sommelier exam.

“Don’t embarrass me,” were the parting words from her beverage director. She didn’t, passing the exam and setting her on the yearslong journey to Master Sommelier.

According to the Court of Master Sommeliers, which administers the exams and awards certifications, just 28 of the 172 Master Sommeliers in the American chapter are women. She’s determined to join that exclusive group and has achieved Advanced Certification, a tremendous accomplishment in itself. Next step is passing the “Theory” section of the Master Sommelier Diploma Exam, a grueling 50-minute interrogation during which two Master Sommeliers fire 114 questions at the candidate.

Delving deep into the minutiae of the wine universe and beyond, the questions deal not just with wine

and wine regions worldwide, but may also test the candidate on topics as far flung as international wine laws or the ingredients in an obscure apertif. The success rate is a mere 10 percent, with most candidates making three or more attempts before passing.

Once over that hurdle, two more demanding exams await, for wine tasting and wine service, before ascending to the rarified ranks of Master Sommeliers. “I am determined to pass this exam,” she says. “I am doing it for myself, not just for the kinds of jobs that it will open up.”

the front lines of the wine world.

She’s held the wine director post, as well as other management positions, at a number of Michelinstarred and top Zagat-rated New York City restaurants. She’s also been a wine buyer, participated in wine harvesting and production and currently teaches classes on, among other topics, wine tasting and wine and cheese pairing.

Most recently the Tastings Director at Wine & Spirits magazine and currently a wine educator at Astor Center and Murray’s Cheese in New York City, Sarah has worked

Our Flavours of Burgundy & Provence itinerary Departing July 11, 2020.

Starts at

$3,195

per person

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Page 16

TAKE ME THERE...

For our full collection of itineraries visit emeraldwaterways.com or call us at 877 796 8403

Despite coming from the highest echelons of the New York dining scene, Sarah enjoys nothing better than cooking at her home in Brooklyn, putting her own stamp on classic and regional fare ranging from French haute-cuisine to Szechuan. Recently, she says, she’s been experimenting with the multidimensional flavors of Vietnamese and Thai cooking.

As to wine, she and her husband Ryan, whom she calls “a living legend in the New York wine business,” collect and drink Champagne, Barolo wines from Italy’s Piemonte, and German Riesling. Never one to turn down on opportunity to try something new, she calls herself “an equal opportunity drinker” when it comes to wine.

Chateauneuf-du-pap wines

Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon

Flavours of Burgundy & Provence with guest wine expert Sarah S. Looper departs July 11, 2020. This special departure date is sure to fill quickly, so reserve

Pre-order brochure

today. Call our dedicated reservations team at 877 796 8403 or contact your professional travel advisor.

Page 17

THE AWARDS KEEP COMING …

At Emerald Waterways, we strive every day to provide our guests with the best possible river cruise experience at the best value.

by Pip O'Connor

In fact, they’re the only people we really have to impress, as far as we’re concerned. That being said, we’re very grateful and honored when Emerald Waterways is also recognized by respected outside evaluators. As the 2019 award season wrapped up, we received the exciting announcement.

Cruise Critic 2019 Editors’ Picks Awards: Best River Cruise Line for Value This is the fifth year in a row that we’ve earned this distinction. It shows that indulgence and value do not have to be mutually exclusive. From the award citation:

“

We've also received the 2019 Magellan Awards Silver Winner for Contemporary Ship Pool Design from Travel Weekly magazine. If you’re interested, you’ll find information about it and all of the awards we’ve garnered on our website. Not bad, if we do say so ourselves, for a cruise line that’s only been in existence since 2013. And to say we owe it all to you, our customer, would be an understatement.

Everyone at Emerald Waterways strives everyday to make your experience the best that it can be.

We just let the awards take care of themselves.

Tours, beer and wine at meals and Wi-Fi are all included as standard on an Emerald Waterways cruise, but at a lower price point than other lines. Add the indoor/outdoor pool, comfortable cabins and outstanding food — reflecting the region in which you're cruising — and you'll find that you get more for your money with Emerald Waterways.

“

Page 18

Emerald Waterways

Best River Cruise Line for Value

Emerald Waterways

Best River Cruise Line for Value

Emerald Waterways Best Value For Money

Best River Line for Value

Best River Cruise Line for Value…

5 years running “You get a lot for your money on an Emerald Waterways river cruise. Prices include a shore excursion in every port (including guided biking and hiking tours); wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; in-cabin bottled water restocked daily; airport transfers to and from your ship; and all gratuities -- and all at prices that won’t cause shock.”

Cruise Critic Editors

OVERALL RIVER CRUISING

CONTEMPORARY SHIP-POOL DESIGN

OVERALL CONTEMPORARY SHIP

Page 19

Find out why three of our experts from our Boston office love working for Emerald Waterways.

TROY LOGAN

TEAM TALK

Group Sales Manager

How does your role impact the guest experience with Emerald Waterways?

As a Group Sales Manager my top priority is the guest’s experience. I am the primary point of contact for the Group from the very first interaction to the very last. To begin with, I assist the guests by identifying the perfect itinerary to meet all of the group’s needs. Over the course of the next 12- 18 months I remain in constant contact with the guests to ensure all their questions and concerns are addressed in a timely manner. Lastly, I wish them “Bon Voyage”, “Welcome Home” and “Where are we to next”!

What are your top 3 favorite things about our Star-Ships?

Wow only three? That is a tough choice to make, but if I must then the pool & evening cinema is number one for me! I am amazed how the same space can magical transform from day to night. Next has to be our revolutionary indoor balcony design. With the touch of a button, the upper part of the suite's floor to ceiling window drops down to unveil uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery.

Where should experienced river cruisers go next?

For those who have not had the chance yet, explore South East Asia with us! The Emerald Harmony is the newest Star-Ship in our fleet.

She is custom built to sail directly into Ho Chi Minh, taking you to the heart of this remarkable city. Thoughtfully designed with world class amenities and service that is second to none, it’s an experience for all 5 senses and unlike anything you have experienced on a European Cruise.

Page 20

MELISSA LAITMAN

OYA BEKISOGLU

Guest Sales Consultant

Regional Sales Director

How does your role impact the guest experience with Emerald Waterways?

How does your role impact the guest experience with Emerald Waterways?

Since I am the first person that they have contact with, I need to set a positive precedent. I talk to the guest about what it is they are looking for and make sure it is the right fit for them. There have been times that the guest wants to see something and they are not choosing the correct destination, so I talk to them about the trips in-depth and help them to understand why they may not want to go where they have chosen and instead take a cruise where they really want to go. I want the guest to have the best possible experience that they can have and if it means changing destinations to see Vienna instead of a castle, then that's what they will do.

My role does not directly impact the guest experience with Emerald Waterways. However, I continually train our travel partners so that they can help their clients to understand our product better.

What are your top 3 favorite things about our Star-Ships?

I love the fact that the Star Ships are newer ships on the rivers. They are sleek, modern, contemporary and very chic. The food is excellent and the staff goes to great lengths to assist the guest in any way they can. Each of our ships have amazing coffee machines. You can make yourself a Cappuccino, Cafe Latte, Espresso or even a hot chocolate any time of the day or night as the machine is open 24 hours.

What are your top 3 favorite things about our Star-Ships?

• Flexibility.

• The exceptional value.

• Innovation.

Where should experienced river cruisers go next?

I am passionate about traveling, meeting new people and exploring the world. I would suggest everyone to explore new destinations. The world is beautiful! My recent experience to Vietnam and Cambodia was fascinating!

Where should experienced river cruisers go next?

I feel that if someone has cruised on the three main rivers, the Danube, Rhine and Douro, the next practical step would be to cruise the Black Sea and Eastern Europe. Our cruise "TheEnchantment of Eastern Europe" takes guest from Bucharest to Budapest and beyond to special cities that one would not normally see. I explain to the guest about each city and what they would see while cruising. It is truly a wonderful cruise if you are looking for something different.

Page 21

Introducing our

EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club

Welcome to the club The EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club entitles you to exclusive benefits, savings on future cruises, advance notice of new itineraries, and so much more…

At Emerald Waterways, we work steadfastly toward providing the best river cruise experience possible for our valued guests. As we continue to grow, we’re delighted to find ourselves with many return guests, eager to embark on their next great adventure with us. With this in mind, we’ve created our EmeraldEXPLORER club to reward that loyalty.

Upon returning from your first river cruise, you’ll automatically become a member of our EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club, allowing you to accumulate points and start earning exclusive benefits.

To put it simply, the higher the category of suite you sail in, the more points you receive for each day of cruising. For every subsequent cruise you take with us, the points continue accumulating. Simple, right?

Page 22

Our EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty tiers at a glance

EmeraldEXPLORER Points Earned Welcome Home Voucher - an additional discount off your next cruise Refer a Friend Program

1 – 4,999

5,000 – 9,999

10,000+

$200 Welcome Home Voucher

$200 Welcome Home Voucher

$250 Welcome Home Voucher

$100 per booking discount $100 per booking discount $100 per booking discount for both referrer & friend for both referrer & friend for both referrer & friend EmeraldEXPLORER Silver Backpack

EmeraldEXPLORER Gold Backpack or Satchel

EmeraldEXPLORER Diamond Backpack, satchel or cabin case

Exclusive Offers







Advance Notice of Brochure Launches







Subscription to EmeraldEXPLORER Magazine







Invitations to Exclusive Emerald Waterways Events







Complimentary Luggage (for 2019 departures)

For further information on our EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty club, please visit emeraldwaterways.com/emeraldexperience/emeraldexplorer *Please note, EmeraldEXPLORER tiered points are allocated for the days spent on the cruise only. Guests on pre/post city stays and touring days will be rewarded with 100 points per touring day.

Page 23

Explore the world with us…

There’s never been a better time to explore some of the world’s most fascinating destinations with Emerald Waterways. With no hidden costs, you can relax knowing most meals, drinks with lunch and dinner, excursions, world-class hotel stays, flights, transfers and tips are included, as part of our promise of Exceptional EmeraldVALUE.

European River Cruising Discover the rivers of Europe in style. Our cruises along the Rhine, Main, Danube, Douro and Rhône offer an insight into the history of each magnificent waterway. Gateways to cultural enlightenment, to be navigated on-board an award-winning Star-Ship. Each and every one of our river cruise itineraries has been lovingly crafted to take you on a journey of discovery through the cities and regions we visit.

Southeast Asia River Cruising

Russian River Cruising

Uncover Southeast Asia, with intriguing history and diverse culture, a region of breath-taking beauty, steeped in fascinating traditions.

Experience countless magical sights, sounds and flavors.

From St. Petersburg to Moscow, discover the many wonders of Russia’s cultural history. Enjoy captivating cities, imperial grandeur and spectacular scenery as you sail the famous Volga River.

Egypt, Nile River, Israel and Jordan

Dalmatian Coast Yacht Cruises

Sail The Nile and witness spectacular desert landscapes and thousands of years of history. Follow in the footsteps of mighty Pharaohs as you uncover this unique part of the world.

Join us on an adventure to the magnificent Dalmatian coast, Croatia. Where the azure waters play host to thousands of off-shore islands, breathtaking mountain ranges and unspoiled cities.

For more information or to request a brochure call 877.796.8403 or visit emeraldwaterways.com Page 24

Page 24

EmeraldEXPLORER

For more information call

877 796 8403

emeraldwaterways.com

Terms and conditions: For current offers, visit emeraldwaterways.com/offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price.

Offer available to residents of the 50 United States and Washington DC only. Offers and fares are capacity controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Extensions are subject to hotel availability and may not be available on all sailings. 20_EW0117