Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways has announced the release of the Wine Cruises Through Europe 2012 & 2013 brochure, officially launching its newest “In Celebration of Wine” themed cruises through Europe’s premier wine regions.

AmaWaterways’ customized “In Celebration of Wine” cruises feature shore excursions and complimentary wine-themed programming showcasing the rich history of Europe’s famous wine regions. Guests will visit local vineyards and wine cellars in the famous Chateauneuf-du-Pape region and attend onboard, wine-themed lectures co-hosted by various celebrity food and wine experts.

AmaWaterways’ new “In Celebration of Wine” itineraries and dates are as follows:

Legendary Wine Regions of the Rhone This 15-day itinerary begins with 3 nights in Barcelona. There, guests embark on the AmaDagio for a 7-night cruise with visits to the cities of Arles, Les Baux de Provence, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne and Trevoux before arriving in Lyon, followed by a high-speed TGV train ride to Paris for a 3-night stay. North American travelers can book cruises from November  4,  2012 – November 18, 2013.

Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel – On board the AmaDolce, this 12-day Rhine and Mosel River itinerary includes views of the steepest vineyards in the world.  The Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel cruise begins with 3 nights in Paris, followed by a 7-night cruise from Luxembourg to Amsterdam. North American travelers can book cruises starting November 3, 2013.

Paris & the Sparkling Seine This 11-day itinerary includes 2 nights in Paris and a 7-night cruise along the Seine aboard the AmaLegro. Guests will enjoy wine lectures, samplings and pairings as they visit the cities of Vernon, Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys and Conflans before returning to the Parisian “City of Light.” North American travelers can book cruises from April 4 – November 7, 2013.

Castles & Wineries of Germany – On board the AmaDolce, this 14-day itinerary offers a historic tour of Europe’s rich medieval era. Beginning with 2 nights in Prague, the itinerary includes a 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg, visiting Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim, Rudesheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Zell and Bernkastel. The cruise concludes with a 3-night stay in Paris and optional tours.  North American travelers can book cruises starting October 28, 2013.

Culture & Wine Legacy of the Rhine – This 13-day itinerary begins in the colorful city of Amsterdam, where guests embark on the  AmaCello. Excursions include a tasting of renowned Kolsch beer, a visit to Heidelberg’s red-walled Castle, scenic lakeside tours and visits to the region’s famous local wineries and markets. The itinerary concludes with a 2-night stay in the medieval city of Lucerne, followed by 2 nights in Zurich, Switzerland. North American travelers can book cruises from November 7, 2012 – November 21, 2013.

AmaWaterways,  www.amawaterways.com