I have been very lucky to attend CLIA River Cruise Conference in Amsterdam this year with some of my colleagues from other branches of Miles Morgan Travel. Part of the event were ship visits; I saw eleven and I totally loved every one of them!
Among the many ships, there was one that particularly stood out. It was an exceptional Star-Ship Emerald Dawn, which is one of Emerald’s six Star-Ships that cruise the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers.
Laid-back atmosphere aligned with its’ modern, contemporary style makes it a perfect choice for guests looking for a relaxed holiday on a river. Its’ stylish design is topped up with luxury touches like ESPA toiletries and hotel-style beds. Apart from that, all ninety staterooms and suites are quite simple, minimalistic and generously-sized. All areas are immaculately clean. The facilities available on Emerald Dawn are just what you would expect to find in a top hotel.
The reception is kept in the same minimalistic style, very bright and decorated with plants and mirrors. Another thing that caught my attention were beautiful chandeliers hanging in the middle of the staircase.
The Horizon Bar and Lounge is the main public area. It has a home feeling, yet smart and elegant. It’s where you go to relax and make new friends over a glass of fine wine. Unfortunately, I have not had a chance to dine onboard, but there are three elegant dining venues you can choose from - Reflections Restaurant, The Terrace and Sky Barbecue on the Sun Deck, where you can also go to watch Europe’s incredible cities and nature pass by from a sunbed while enjoying a river breeze.
If you’re feeling energetic, instead of sunbathing you can challenge your new-found friends in golf onboard! Feeling even more active? They have you covered - you can carry on your fitness routine on the gym or a walking track and enjoy a professional massage or a beauty treatment after in emerald Dawn’s Wellness Area. There is even hairdressers if you’re having a bad-hair day!
The absolute cherry on top is the indoor heated pool with retractable roof, which transforms into an evening cinema on dedicated nights – wow! Sadly, as the visits were during the day I didn’t have the opportunity to see what it’s like at night, I guess I will have to book a cruise on it to experience it properly!
Overall, the ship is very pleasant, clean and not ‘too much’, so you can actually relax without a worry that your tonight’s outfit is not formal enough.
If you are looking for advice or to book your river cruise, pop into our Yeovil shop to see me or send an email to me: [email protected]!
