Christmas Magic Aboard a River Cruise
The festive season brings joy and relaxation for many. Families gather, friends reconnect, and holiday traditions come alive. However, for some, the season means hard work. Workers on cruise ships strive to create magical Christmas experiences for travelers. Anette Taylor, a crew member on a Riviera Travel cruise ship, shares insights into what Christmas Day looks like for both guests and staff. From lavish decorations to festive meals, the atmosphere onboard is truly enchanting.
Transforming the Ship into a Christmas Wonderland
As guests step aboard a Riviera cruise ship, they enter a transformed world. The ship is adorned with stunning decorations that evoke the spirit of Christmas. Anette describes the scene: “The ship is sumptuously decorated with several large Christmas trees, garlands, wreaths, a gingerbread village, and much more all through the season—not just on Christmas Day.” This festive ambiance sets the tone for a memorable holiday experience.
On Christmas Day, the celebrations begin early. Guests enjoy breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m., fueling them for the day ahead. After breakfast, they embark on a walking tour of Strasbourg, a picturesque city known for its rich culture and charming sights. This excursion allows travelers to soak in the festive atmosphere of the city before returning to the ship by 1 p.m. The combination of exploring a beautiful location and enjoying the ship’s holiday spirit creates a unique experience.
Once back on board, the festivities continue. Lunch is served from 1 to 2:30 p.m., followed by a delightful afternoon tea from 4 to 5 p.m. Guests indulge in festive treats such as mince pies, German Christmas Stollen, and Glühwein. To add to the joy, each guest receives a present from Santa. Anette emphasizes the importance of local specialties and festive dining, ensuring that guests feel the warmth of the season throughout their stay.
A Day Filled with Festive Delights
The highlight of Christmas Day is undoubtedly the Christmas dinner. Anette explains, “For Christmas dinner, we usually offer a six-course meal, including smoked salmon, seafood, filet mignon, turkey, and vegetarian options, followed by Christmas dessert and petit fours.” This lavish meal is a feast for the senses, showcasing the culinary talents of the ship’s chef. After the main service, the chef makes rounds to engage with guests, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.
As the evening unfolds, the festive cheer continues with Christmas cocktails at 6:30 p.m. The Captain, Hotel Manager, Cruise Director, and crew host this special gathering. Following the cocktails, guests enjoy entertainment from local performers, showcasing cultural traditions through music and dance. The atmosphere is lively, with opportunities for guests to participate in quizzes, treasure hunts, and other seasonal activities. For those who prefer a quieter evening, the ship offers a cozy space to relax and soak in the festive ambiance.
While guests revel in the holiday spirit, the crew faces their own challenges. Anette shares, “The crew usually manages to have a little get-together on Christmas Eve. For us, it’s about ensuring our guests have a magical experience.” Although they may miss their own celebrations, the crew finds joy in creating memorable moments for travelers. They might share a quick toast with passengers or make calls to loved ones, saving their own celebrations for when they return home.
Spending Christmas on a river cruise offers a unique experience. Every detail is taken care of, from festive decor to exquisite dining. Guests can explore incredible locations while enjoying the magic of the season. Anette concludes, “Instead of worrying about organizing Christmas celebrations at home, everything is taken care of for our guests. They enter a Christmas wonderland when boarding the ship—it’s a stress-free and memorable experience, full of joy and festive cheer.”
