EmeraldEXPLORER Issue 4

Issue Four 2020

EmeraldEXPLORER

WHAT’S NEW FOR THE 2021-2022 SEASON 4 EUROPEAN FOODIE DESTINATIONS VICTORIOUS ‘INVICTA’

Lisa Norton Vice President, Emerald Cruises US

Editor’s Letter Welcome to EmeraldEXPLORER, Issue Four, a magazine produced exclusively for Emerald Waterways’ travelers.

Although we are on a traveling hiatus at press time, we are all travelers at heart. As we pause to dream, reflect and become inspired by our travel memories and experiences, we have been busy getting ready for a return to the world’s great waterways in Europe, Southeast Asia and beyond.

We have also been hard at work building new two new ships. Emerald Luna, our newest Star-Ship, will set sail in 2021 on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, and will deliver the same, premium level of service, contemporary design and superb comfort that Cruise Critic Editors have recognized every year since 2014 – and that you have come to expect.

Our biggest news is the launch of Emerald Yacht Cruises and our brand new seafaring super-yacht, Emerald Azzurra. Also sailing in 2021, Emerald Azzurra will be a one-of-a-kind vessel carrying just 100 guests in spacious common areas and accommodations, the majority of which have balconies or terraces. Complete with Sky Deck, Observation Lounge, infinity pool, marina platform and more, she will sail the Mediterranean, Adriatic and Red Seas into smaller ports and harbors other vessels cannot reach.

In this issue, we will also inspire your taste buds with four destinations for food enthusiasts, the charms of Porto, Portugal and the special touches in our EmeraldPLUS program that immerse you in local cultures along Europe’s rivers.

Until we meet onboard again, you can always see the latest news on our social media feeds on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. When you’re ready to travel, we are ready to welcome you back.

Sweet travel dreams!

Vice President Emerald Waterways US

CONTENTS What’s New for 2021

04

Launch of the Emerald Azzurra yacht will mark Emerald Cruises’ bold, innovative entrance to the world of ocean cruising

4 European Foodie Destinations

10

We’ve compiled a selection of some lesser-known food destinations — for experienced epicureans and fledgling foodies alike

VICTORIOUS ‘INVICTA’

14

Serene Sophistication in Portugal’s Second City, A guide to Porto,

by Pip Neesham

EmeraldPLUS

16

Uncovering another dimension with Emerald Waterways’ exclusive excursion program.

Meet the Team

20

Cruise Director Simona spills the beans about life on-board our Star-Ships.

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Introducing Emerald Azzurra Inaugural Season Now Available

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C R U I S E S

Intimate Experiences • Exotic Destinations Sailing in 2021, the launch of the Emerald Azzurra will mark Emerald Cruises’ bold, innovative entrance to the world of ocean cruising.

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Intro

EMERALD AZ The ship’s steel cutting ceremony this past November kicked off construction, and as building continues, the Azzurra’s design has come to embody Emerald’s vision of an ocean cruising experience that mirrors the intimacy of small group travel, while also providing the indulges and

Observation Lounge

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overall feel of yachting.

With a capacity of a mere 100 guests and a grand total of 50 spacious cabins with staterooms starting at more than 285 square feet – most featuring private balconies – the Emerald Azzurra will feel more like a luxury, boutique yacht compared to

the gargantuan megaships seasoned cruisers have become all too familiar with. At an impressive length of 360 feet, the Azzurra, while intimate in terms of passenger count, will offer plenty of space for private relaxation or independent exploration of the ship’s firstrate amenities. A crew of 64 promises an unmatched level of service. And the ship’s custom design will allow access to fascinating ports and intimate harbors that larger vessels simply cannot reach.

While unique ports of call and a wide selection of included sightseeing opportunities will surely be the highlight of your trip, time spent on board is sure to give even bucket list destinations a run for their money. Spread across six

oducing

The Terrace

ZZURRA decks, the Azzurra will feature everything from an infinity pool to a gym, spa, and wellness area. A marina platform allows you to embark one of the ship’s zodiacs or partake in a range of included watersports. Two onboard restaurants and bars will offer a range of different cuisines. Exceptional quality food goes without saying, and breakfast, lunch and dinner are always included in the price of your trip (as are wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner). In these ways, and more, the Azzurra looks to provide the value that the travel industry has repeatedly applauded and that guests of Emerald’s river cruise line have already grown to love.

The Azzurra’s inaugural cruise will transport lucky passengers across the Aegean in comfort and sleek, modern style,

Infinity Pool

Keukenhof Garden

Owner's Suite Page 7

traveling on an eight-day itinerary that runs from Limassol, Cyprus to Piraeus (Athens), Greece. Along the way, the ship will stop in hotspots such as Mykonos and Santorini, while also charting lesserknown destination brimming with culture and charm, such as Bodrum and Kusadasi, Turkey. Knowledgeable local guides ensure a deeper connection with and better understanding of the region’s history. All this, on top of daily views of the Aegean’s striking crystal waters as you sail from one stop to the next.

In addition to our inaugural voyage, we have already announced sensational itineraries for the 2021-22 season, including French & Italian Rivieras with Corsica (Rome to Nice) and The Best of the Red Sea (roundtrip Aqaba, Jordan).

Cabins are open for reservation, so it is recommended that you act quickly and take advantage of the Azzurra’s early bird fares!

CROATIA

Venice

Krk 7

Zadar Šibenik Split

ITALY

Hvar Korčula

Dubrovnik

Adriatic Sea

7 Number of nights Mediterranean Sea

Cruise

Cruise start/finish

Croatia in Depth Dubrovnik to Venice

Days: 8 Departing: September 2021 – September 2022 Tour code: E02D

Azure waters abound along the stunning Adriatic coast, where Croatia presents its own distinct form of beauty. From Dubrovnik to the island of Korčula, Split to Hvar, Sibenik and Zadar to Krk, this unspoiled route through the Mediterranean will be yours to uncover.

TAKE ME THERE...

For more information on all our new itineraries visit emeraldyachtcruises.com Contact your Professional Travel Advisor or call us at 877 796 8403

Let’s Go | view all details online Croatia in Depth

YA C H T

C R U I S E S

Black Sea

Istanbul

GREECE 10

Volos

CYPRUS

Canakkale

Limassol

TURKEY

Aegean Sea

Mediterranean Sea

Kusadasi

Athens (Piraeus) Ermoupolis

Rhodes

Haifa (Tel Aviv)

Antalya 7

Limassol

Ashdod (Jerusalem)

Port Said

ISRAEL

Paphos Mediterranean Sea 10 Number of nights

Cruise

Cruise start/finish

Aegean Reflections Athens (Piraeus) to Limassol Days: 11 Departing: December 2021 Tour code: E10D

7

Number of nights

Cruise

Cruise start/finish

EGYPT

Holy Land at Christmas Time Limassol to Limassol Days: 8 Departing: December 2021 Tour code: E03P

Your Aegean adventure from Athens takes you to the Greek island of Ermoupolis and then the coastal port of Volos before heading to Turkey and taking in Canakkale and the Turkish capital of Istanbul. Heading south you’ll visit Kusadasi, Rhodes in Greece and back to Turkey with a stop at the resort of Antalya. Your cruise will be complete sailing the southern coast of Cyprus.

A festive itinerary of biblical proportions. Commencing in the Cypriot city of Limassol and sailing onwards to Port Said in Egypt, you’ll tick off the Israeli city of Haifa, set on the hills of Mount Carmel, and Ashdod, where the tomb of Jonah is believed to exist on Givat Yona, or Yona’s Hill.

Let’s Go | view all details online

Let’s Go | view all details online

Aegean Reflections

YA C H T

Holy Land at Christmas Time

C R U I S E S YA C H T

C R U I S EPageS9

4 European Foodie Destinations TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR NEXT GETAWAY For foodies on vacation, dining off the eaten track is just as important as putting your feet up, getting that well-earned tan or seeing the sights. The gastronome will not be satisfied until they’ve experienced the local fare a region has to offer; the culinary nooks and crannies just waiting to be discovered and devoured are a hugely important part of the adventure.

For experienced epicureans and fledgling foodies alike, we’ve compiled a selection of some lesser-known food destinations for your delectation that all discerning food fans should consider next time the travel bug hits.

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Mettbrötchen

Schweinshaxe - or Pork Knuckle

Cologne Germany’s fourth largest city is famous for straddling both sides of the Rhine river, its grand cathedral and a vivid cultural backdrop. With all that, you’d be forgiven for forgetting about its rich culinary scene too, but Kölsch dining is something not to be missed during your time here, a cuisine that’s rustic, delicious and daring, at times.

An interesting take on sweet and savory, Himmel und Ääd (literally Heaven and Earth) is so called since its constituents, apples and potatoes represent the sky and the ground, respectively. Resembling mashed potatoes, sweet apple notes cut through with a refreshing bite. Traditionally served with blood sausage, experience it in one the city’s traditional beer halls for a classic Kölsch meal.

After a long day of scoping the city, Schweinshaxe or Pork Knuckle - will sate hungry visitors. Ranging anywhere from 600 to 1400g, the Schweinshaxe is something of a spectacle on the plate. Soft and

succulent, with a satisfying crunch to the outside, it’s usually served with potato dumplings to soak up the tender meat’s jus. Not one to be missed on your travels.

Another dish that straddles the sweet/savory divide, Soorbrode is an adventurous dish originally made with horsemeat, though nowadays it’s more likely to use beef – best to check beforehand. Cooked in a special raisin sauce, with a sharp vinegar kick to boot, its undeniable fragrance proves impossible to resist.

Mettbrötchen, literally meat on a bread roll, might not sound like anything special, but it’s prepared in a way you might not be accustomed to. Popular with Cologne locals, the meat on this sandwich is raw: unsmoked, uncooked and with very little preparation involved, just salt, pepper and a sprinkling of raw onions. Even for those usually weak of stomach, it’s a delicious treat that has to be sampled during your time here.

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Hornazo

Salamanca World Heritage-listed since 1988, Salamanca is also home to Spain’s oldest university, a bustling cultural life and hearty cuisine steeped in rustic tradition.

A reflection of its countryside location, the vast pastures and spectacular highlands are reflected in Salamanca’s provincial fare. A menu of culinary delights you might not be necessarily familiar with, Salamanca’s cuisine is surely one to be relished.

Traditionally eaten al fresco during the “Monday of the Waters” festival, hornazo is an oven-baked pastry stuffed with ham, sausage, bacon and cooked egg. With its characteristic diagonal-grid patterning, hornazo is hugely popular across Salamanca, sold at most bakeries in the region. Crumbly and indulgent, be sure to grab a slice of this Salamanca custom if you stop here.

Speaking of indulging, Farinato sausage is a true symbol of

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Farinato sausage

Salamanca cuisine, a calorific delicacy that once had the nickname “the sausage of the poor” due to its simple, unfussy ingredients. Admired in gourmet circles thanks to its distinctive taste and versatile, adaptable recipes, it’s not uncommon for Farinito to be made with cumin, pumpkin, aniseed and brandy.

Usually served with fried or scrambled egg, this is Salamanca on a plate, pure and simple.

On the sweeter side of things, Perrunillas are distinctive in appearance and rich in taste, with an overwhelming meltin-the-mouth texture that must be savored while you’re here. Historically made for special occasions like baptisms, weddings, and festivals, the dry texture makes the perfect accompaniment to tea and coffee, while that unmistakable almond center adds some extra bite.

Bryndzové halušky

Bratislava Since Bratislava is something of a melting pot influenced by the cultural clout of Hungarian, Austrian, German and Slovakian history, its cuisine is a tough one to define. Slightly easier to get a hold on however, are the places to avoid while you’re here.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best to steer clear of anywhere that offers ‘Slovak’ in the name, makes mention of ‘traditional Slovak cuisine’ or features pictures of pigs, schnitzel or bryndzové halušky outside on the street. If

Chicken Paprikash

Kapustnica

you want authentic, traditional food, look somewhere else.

Perhaps its most famous local dish, bryndzové halušky is a must-try meal made up of potato dumplings and sheep’s milk cheese with bacon. Similar to gnocchi, it’s hearty and rich, indicative of both Bratislava and Slovakia’s historically simple, spare cuisine, when the majority of the population lived in selfsufficient villages.

Elsewhere, lokše – baked potato pancakes – accompany roast goose, a signature dish that provides substantial sustenance to sate even the hungriest of travelers. Nourishing soups and stews warm and delight, like kapustnica (a sauerkraut and sausage medley) and Segedin goulash, a Hungarian-style pork stew served up with dumplings.

Hugely inspired by its changing seasons, Bratislava favors light wine-based sauces in the spring and light soups served with fresh vegetables in summer. As the weather gets milder, autumn offers a plethora of chestnut, squash and pumpkin dishes, while winter fare opts for robust, sizable portions of bean and lentil stews.

Budapest We’ll resist some sort of hungry in Hungary pun and let the magnificent city’s cuisine speak for itself. While idyllic and imposing, Budapest is also home to some delightful dishes that truly warm body and soul. Notes of paprika enrich stews, soups and meat dishes with deep red hues, its piquant aromas proving impossible to resist, while cheese dishes prove popular with local and traveler alike.

Hungary’s national dish, Chicken Paprikash, is a good starting point, and it’s easy to see why: vibrant, creamy and filling, tender chicken merges perfectly with its rich, paprika-laden roux. Served with nokedli, a dumpling-like, broad noodle, this is local cuisine done right.

Another dish rich with the deep shade and unctuous aroma of paprika, Halászlé, or Fisherman’s Soup, is a very spicy dish whose exact means of preparation are somewhat shrouded in mystery.

A simple recipe, the correct ratio of spices, fish and water, as well as its cooking time, make

Halászlé or Fisherman’s Soup

all the difference, and the most dedicated seafarers’ recipe have stayed ironclad for some time.

Lángos, derived from the Hungarian word for flame, is a favorite of street food vendors at Budapest’s Central Market Hall. A fried flat bread topped with everything from mashed potatoes, cheese, ham, sour cream and even sweet toppings, it’s a treat that locals swear by.

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VICTORIOUS ‘INVICTA’ Serene Sophistication in Portugal’s Second City, A guide to Porto, by Pip Neesham

Overlooking the Douro, myriad multicolored façades and burnt orange roofs stack up along Porto’s steep riverbanks.

The city’s beautiful cobbled streets date back to the Middle Ages and the central shops of the Old Town preserve the memory of the bygone era while giving the city a contemporary buzz. Now, while creating an ancient ambiance, these distinctive buildings function as Art Deco cafés serving traditional pastries, and as wine bars pouring white port and tonic. The Ribeira, in the center of the Old Town, is a designated World-Heritage site and one of the city’s most attractive districts, as docked boats bob at the quayside and the central square is adorned by tables and chairs, awaiting merrymakers.

At the heart of the city you'll find Avenida dos Aliados. A sloping boulevard decorated with grandiose buildings showcasing a range of architectural styles, from neoclassical to French Beaux-arts. It is regarded as the city center, and an impressive one at that. The top of the avenue is signified by the palatial Town Hall, constructed in granite and marble, with its tall Bell Tower, accompanied by the modernist statue of Almeida Garrett, a renowned Portuguese writer.

Central Porto is also home to the impressive Palacio da Bolsa, the stock exchange that is renowned not just for its neo-classical exterior, but its famous Arabe (Arab Room), which is recognised by most visitors as the highlight, because of its spectacular ornate decoration in the Moorish revivalist style. The building itself took eight years to build, while the interior took 60 years to complete.

What awaits inside the unassuming São Francisco Church, is a sight to behold. Its exquisite interior has been considered the most impressively designed edifice in the city, if not in Europe. Abundant motifs portray a Gothic and Baroque influence, as fruit, flowers, animals and cherubs enhance the marble columns and arches, all swathed in 880 pounds of gold. Quite uniquely, the church’s catacombs provide the final resting place for thousands of people, known as Bones Chapel, it was built in the 17th century and is said to represent the fragility of human life.

It would be remiss to not pay homage to the city’s pride and joy, Port wine, an adoration for which it is very forthcoming. A river cruise down the Douro is sure to offer up much beauty, as the wine estates, quaint villages and traditional communities of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Douro Valley create a magical backdrop. Working vineyards open their doors to the public, offering the opportunity to indulge in artisanal cheese and chocolate pairings in specialized tasting rooms with the help of on-site sommeliers. This is an opportunity also to learn about the beautiful Douro region and the history of Porto’s finest export.

Foodies will rejoice as a new wave of top chefs reinvent what we know as Portuguese cuisine and extensive food markets provide the perfect spot to pick up regional ingredients. Mornings give way to relaxed brunches and cool bistros, while familyowned taverns produce excellent small plates and Atlantic-fresh seafood.

Porto is both lively and laid-back, both modern and ancient and, most certainly, a city proud of its heritage and positive about the future.

Cruise Portugal’s picturesque Douro River on our Secrets of the Douro itinerary.

Visit emeraldwaterways.com/douro Page 15

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EMERALD PLUS Uncovering another dimension with Emerald Waterways’ exclusive excursion program.

by Pip Neesham

They say travel broadens the mind, it provides the inquisitive traveler with the experiences they crave and teaches us about history and culture, to unveil why certain communities look, feel and function the way they do in the present.

An Emerald Waterways river cruise seeks to avoid the usual tourist hotspots, to give guests the most authentic and unique experience possible. Your floating boutique hotel docks in smaller ports in central locations so that the minute you arrive, you’re transported to the heart of the destination.

Hop off the ship and feel inspired by a world of excursions you never thought possible. Whether it’s culture, cuisine or curiosity that fuel your need to travel, we have everything you could need to satisfy your wanderlust.

Our eight-day Danube Delights itinerary from Nuremberg to Budapest, stops off in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava. Here, guests are welcomed into the home of a local family who proudly talk about their lives over a nice hot drink and some traditional sweet treats. A memory to truly treasure, we can guarantee, this will be unlike anything you’ve experienced before.

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These insightful moments don’t just happen while you’re onshore, we also bring them to the ship. In Budapest, you’ll enjoy Hungarian folklore during a traditional show as you cruise the Danube, with Buda and Pest on either side. You’ll be able to see the Parliament Building in all its illuminated glory, so make sure you have your camera ready.

Get to know quintessential Holland on brand new Springtime Delights ten-day river cruise, which begins and ends in Amsterdam, scooping up a diverse selection of destinations, namely Arnhem and Belgium’s second city, Antwerp.

Here, EmeraldPLUS invites you to The Zaanse Schans region, where you’ll marvel at the beautiful collection of well-preserved historic windmills and factories, once used for the production of anything from spices to paint, oil to cheese. Your time in this region will really open the door to the country’s industrial past. An excursion to the Delta Works projects will provide you with an insight

into the more technologically advanced side of the Netherlands, as you view the network of sections which, together, form the largest flood protection system in the world. Erected within a truly beautiful area, covered by beaches and inhabited by much nature, they’re a definite must-see and considered to be one of the seven wonders of the world. Naturally, you wouldn’t be having the true Dutch experience if you didn’t see a few tulips along the way, and where better than at UNESCO World Heritage-listed Keukenhof Gardens? One of the world’s largest flower gardens, you’ll see over 80 acres of land embellished with multicoloured floral magnificence, sure to surprise and delight. And, on-board, you can choose to put your design skills to the test during a clog painting class, a great way to learn about the centuries-old footwear and how it is decorated.

Those embarking on our Secrets of the Douro cruise in Portugal will be invited to dine at a traditional wine estate in the Régua area, this idyllic surrounding is the perfect accompaniment to trying some of the country’s finest exploits, and sure to be a highlight of your journey. In Salamanca, some traditional entertainment will bring the country’s celebratory side to life and, while on-board, you’ll have the opportunity to learn some new skills during a mosaic tile painting lesson and a cocktail masterclass.

As you’d probably expect, when in France, we like to emphasise the country’s gastronomical achievements, and we do so in many ways. In Avignon, foodies will delight in a Provençal evening dinner cooked on-board your Star-Ship by Top-Chef finalist and esteemed chef, Fabien Morreale, exclusively for Emerald Waterways. We’ll also treat you to a wine-tasting on board, where you’ll have the opportunity to try local wines as we cruise past numerous wine estates and vineyards. A

cheese and olive tasting session is also sure to excite the taste buds and give you a real sense of France at its most delectable.

As we strive to discover and learn more about the world we live in, Emerald Waterways provides an innovative and luxurious way to do so. The perfect combination of time spent on-board and onshore allows you to meet prospective friends from all over the world. Toast to the unique memories you make on these once-in-a-lifetime excursions and acquaint yourself with countries, cities and towns you’ve only ever read about in the history books.

Walk in different shoes and see the world through someone else’s eyes, learn new skills and discover things about yourself on an Emerald Waterways river cruise.

For more details on our EmeraldPLUS program of included excursions and activities, visit emeraldwaterways.com/emeraldplus

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MEET THE TEAM Page 20

Simona Timir

Meet Simona, one of our on-board Cruise Directors currently living in the vibrant city of Bucharest.

We asked her a few questions about life with Emerald Waterways…

Where are you from?

I was born and live in Romania, in the capital city, Bucharest.

How long have you worked for Emerald Waterways?

I am proud to say that I joined before our first sailing in spring 2014.

How did you become a Cruise Director?

I had a scholarship in Salzburg, and during my studies I was offered a job as assistant Cruise Director on the Danube. I was fascinated by ships, and here I am, many years later.

What are your main responsibilities?

The well-being of our guests is my main priority. In order to create special moments, you have to juggle several tasks, excursions, entertainment, lectures. You share your knowledge and joie de vivre!

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Which is your favourite Emerald Waterways itinerary?

Sensations of Lyon & Provence.

Which included excursion from this itinerary would you advise guests don’t miss?

The Lyon city tour. For me, it was the greatest surprise. I never thought of visiting Lyon, but I was very impressed.

How would you best explain the river cruising experience to someone who has never tried it?

A floating hotel where you wake up every day in a different place. You have the chance to meet not only your fellow travelers, but enjoy exceptional service from the staff as well. Guests love the interaction with the staff and the fact that you unpack only once.

How is river cruising different from ocean cruising?

The job is never boring, you get to meet so many people, hear so many stories, you are always active, and making sure guests enjoy their vacation.

The large ocean ships are much bigger and, therefore, not as personal and intimate as a river ship. You can be more independent as you are very close to the cities and can walk into the towns and integrate into communities.

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

How do you relax while you’re on-board?

You have to expect the unexpected, but it’s not easy. You depend on weather, suppliers, external events that can influence the cruise, so you have to react quickly to situations and make the best decision for your guests.

I love to go and explore local places and museums. When on-board, I socialise with the crew, who become like family while we are away from home.

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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?

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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

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Advance Notice of Brochure Launches

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Subscription to EmeraldEXPLORER Magazine

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Invitations to Exclusive Emerald Waterways Events

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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.

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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. 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.

“

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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

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For more information or to book contact your professional travel advisor or call:

877 796 8403 emeraldwaterways.com

One Financial Center, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02111

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_EW0505