Alaska: Wilderness & Wildlife

Fly north of the Arctic Circle to visit an isolated wilderness community and meet the intrepid locals who call it home. A scenic domed railcar affords breathtaking views of Denali National Park. Take off on a flightseeing adventure, landing and setting foot on a snow-covered glacier. A six-time Iditarod race winner introduces his Alaskan huskies. Embark on a private full-day cruise on Prince William Sound. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Fairbanks, Alaska

Arrive in Fairbanks, nicknamed the Golden Heart City, where you are met and privately transferred to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a reception and welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Fairbanks - Exploring Above the Arctic Circle

Start your day with a guided tour of historic Fairbanks, and then board a small plane for a sightseeing flight (weather permitting) that carries you over the majestic Brooks Range to a landing above the Arctic Circle. Visit the far-flung outpost of Wiseman with a local guide and learn more about the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Koyukuk River, a tributary of the mighty Yukon River. Return to Fairbanks for an evening at your leisure.

Day 3 | Talkeetna - Train Ride Through Scenic Denali

Journey overland through breathtaking scenery to Denali National Park. Take in the Denali Visitor Center before transferring to the train depot, where it's "all aboard” a deluxe dome railcar. Get underway, gazing out spacious windows at the verdant wilderness. Savor lunch on board as you absorb the passing vistas of Denali's pristine forests and snow-capped peaks. Arrive in Talkeetna, a quirky village set at the confluence of three rivers, and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, gather with your fellow guests for a Scenic Sundowner, relaxing with drink in hand as you experience the Land of the Midnight Sun.

Day 4 | Talkeetna - Walking on a Glacier

This morning, embark by jetboat on a thrilling excursion into the heart of the wilderness, going ashore to hike to an authentic trapper's cabin, learning local folklore as you go. Afterward, return to the hotel with time to rest and relax. This afternoon, board an airplane for a flightseeing adventure to the remote western end of Denali National Park, taking in marvelous views of Denali as well as Mount Foraker and Mount Hunter. Weather permitting, land on the slopes of Denali and step out onto a glacier for an exhilarating wilderness experience. Return to your lodge for an evening at leisure.

Day 5 | Anchorage - Meet the Furry Heroes of the Iditarod

Start the day with a visit to the kennels of Iditarod champion Dallas Seavey's family in Talkeetna. Go up close with members of their Alaskan husky sled-dog teams. Afterward, drive to Anchorage for lunch, followed by a visit to the Anchorage Museum, where you can explore the diverse Alaska Native cultures through their art and design. Then, set out on a scenic drive to Girdwood, set at the base of Mount Alyeska.

Day 6 | Kenai Peninsula - Inspiring Glacier Cruise

Board a boat to cruise the dramatic glacier and marine wildlife country of Prince William Sound. Spy calving glaciers, watch for whales and sea lions, and look overhead for a soaring bald eagle. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for dinner on your own at any of the restaurants at the hotel or in nearby Girdwood.

Day 7 | Mount Alyeska - Panoramas of Wild Alaska

Today, ride the Scenic Alyeska Tram from sea level up to 2,300 feet for a short hike with spectacular views of the rugged surrounding landscapes. Later this morning, set out for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you enjoy visiting with the native Alaskan species being rehabilitated there, including bison, moose and grizzly bears. Tonight, celebrate your Alaskan journey with a special farewell dinner, meeting with the chef for an engaging Chef 's Table experience.

Day 8 | Depart Anchorage

Transfer to the Anchorage airport and depart.

Family Alaska 

Float down the Portage River, spotting wildlife amid the mountains and hanging glaciers. Cruise Prince William Sound to encounter calving glaciers and marine wildlife. A scenic domed railcar affords breathtaking views of Denali National Park. Search for wildlife on a floatplane wilderness trip. Take off on a flightseeing adventure, landing and setting foot on a snow-covered glacier. A six-time Iditarod race winner introduces his Alaskan huskies. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Anchorage, Alaska

Arrive in Anchorage, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, gather for a festive welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Kenai Peninsula - Scenic Float Trip

This morning, set out to experience Alaska's jaw-dropping landscapes on a family float trip down the Portage River. Savor Alaska's prized fish during a lunchtime salmon bake. Later, enjoy a behind-the-scenes visit at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a nonprofit organization that rehabilitates injured or orphaned animals and returns them to the wild. During your visit, keep on the lookout for black and brown bears, moose, bison, wolves a variety of birds and other species. Dinner this evening is at your leisure, perhaps to enjoy one of the fine local restaurants.

Day 3 | Kenai Peninsula - Inspiring Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

Embark on a boat cruise in the majestic glacier and marine wildlife country of Prince William Sound. Spy calving glaciers as well as species such as whales and sea lions at close range, even as a bald eagle wheels overhead. Return to your hotel in the early evening for dinner at your leisure, whether at your hotel or in neighboring Girdwood.

Day 4 | Redoubt Bay - Bear Country

Approximately 90% of Alaska is not served by roads, so aviation plays a vital role in everyday life. Ride Like a Local as you fly to Redoubt Bay Lodge (weather permitting), the site of some incredible bear viewing. Embark by boat through "bear country,” watching for black and brown bears, and other wildlife along the way. Later, continue to your accommodations in a rustic-modern lodge that overlooks North America's tallest peak, Denali (formerly Mount McKinley). Enjoy this evening at your leisure.

Day 5 | Talkeetna - Dog Kennel Visit & Glacier Walk

Explore historic Talkeetna, the jumping-off point for Denali climbers. Visit the dog kennels of Iditarod racer Dallas Seavey and try your hand at dryland mushing. Visit the family-run Alaska Wild Harvest for tastings of birch-made candy and ice cream on a uniquely sweet Chef 's Table experience for the whole family. Afterward, set out on a guided walk of the town's historic district, followed by time at leisure for lunch. Cap off your day in spectacular fashion as you board a plane and fly over the peaks and glaciers of Denali National Park, taking in the awe-inpsiring views. Then, land — and walk — on a glacier's surface (weather permitting), surrounded by snowy peaks.

Day 6 | Talkeetna - Scenic Denali National Park by Rail

After a relaxing early morning, board a Deluxe Dome Rail Car to Denali National Park, viewing the most scenic section of this Alaska rail journey featuring the Alaska Range and Denali, while enjoying lunch on board. Arrive at the Denali station in the late afternoon to tour the Visitors Center and take a short hike near the park entrance. Then, enjoy dinner in Denali before returning to your lodge by motorcoach.

Day 7 | Anchorage - Kayaking & Hiking Before Your Farewell

Continue exploring the magnificent Denali area with an all-ages kayak trip on placid Byers Lake. Next, join a knowledgeable naturalist guide on a hike that reveals Alaska's abundant flora and fauna, stopping for a picnic lunch en route. Then, continue to Anchorage, where you gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate your journey with the new friends you've made.

Day 8 | Depart Anchorage

After breakfast, privately transfer to the Anchorage airport for your departing flight.

Wolf Tracking in Wyoming

In the depths of winter, Wyoming and Montana transform into a realm of icy white stillness, where ancient Western legends echo through forests thick with snow, and elusive wolves move silently beneath vast frosted peaks. As part of your tailored winter adventure, A&K’s experts will craft unforgettable experiences with locals deeply connected to the land, from naturalists tuned into the frequency of cold-weather species to ranchers and wranglers that thrive in this rugged wilderness. Cosy evenings will be spent fireside in secluded mountain view suites in luxurious lodges, while the distant calls of wolves echo through the snowy landscape.

Itinerary: 7 days but you can add more days to each if you prefer

Spend the first 4 days at Yellowstone National Park, United States of America. Feel the boundless horizons of the American West at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. 

Designated as the world’s first national park in 1872, Yellowstone is indifferent to human timelines; it is a masterpiece of nature millions of years in the making, where bears claw at trout-filled rivers and acid-toned geysers spurt boiling jets into the crisp mountain air. Running through it all is the Grand Loop Road: a rugged, circular, 200-mile seam that rewards drivers with glimpses of eagles, elks and herds of emblematic bison.

Your Experiences: Each morning, your expert driver-guide will seek out wolves, elk and bison in northern Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley Road, often called the ‘Serengeti of North America’. Stop for a gourmet picnic lunch set against the backdrop of the spotless snow-covered valley. 

Spend the last 3 days at Jackson Hole, United States of America. A rustic winter retreat brimming with historic charm at the Sage Lodge. 

Originally a 19th-century trading post, Jackson Hole is now an alpine resort for serious skiers. In winter, its wild frontiers transform into a picturesque wonderland, with heavy snowfall on the mountains and a charming, historic town square. Nestled between the towering peaks of the Tetons and the vast landscapes of Yellowstone, its opportunities for wildlife viewing and a thriving art scene featuring rustic galleries draws a crowd of curious travellers. 

Your Experiences: Arrive on a low-altitude charter flight, gliding over forests, valleys and geothermal activity. Touch down at the National Museum of Wildlife Art for an insightful expert-led tour that spans a collection of works by more than 500 artists, and take in panoramic views of the National Elk Refuge and the Gros Ventre Range from the museum grounds. 

To your last 3 days you can add on: 

Sleigh ride to a riverside camp

See a different perspective of this winter wonderland under blankets in the back of a horse-drawn sleigh. Glide through the snowy landscape, with views of the Teton Range and Snake River unfolding before you. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you journey to a riverside camp, where a crackling campfire and steaming hot cocoa await.

and/or

Flight-seeing over Yellowstone and Teton

A scenic flight over the Yellowstone–Teton region throws up some magical sights: the slow and graceful movement of an elk herd trotting steadily through the snow; a cluster of broken trees, all elbows and knees, protruding after an avalanche that not a single person heard. Immerse yourself in the technicolour dreamscape of a geothermal basin, smoke swirling into the sky. Observe a wolf pack roaming across the plains. This private and personalized experience takes you thousands of feet up in a Cessna Skyhawk or Quest Kodiak aircraft, soaring over the Teton Range. Your pilot also serves as guide and storyteller.

Wyoming Wilderness Adventure

Spot herds of bison and watch the iconic Old Faithful geyser erupt in Yellowstone National Park. Hit the tarmac of the Grand Loop Road, an epic drive linking Yellowstone’s most awe-inspiring sights. Discover Paradise Valley on a private horseback ride, led by an experienced ranch hand

Drift down the Snake River, soaking up the cinematic landscapes of Grand Teton National Park along the way. Uncover the surprising beauty of Wyoming’s flora and fauna with your own private naturalist. Explore the buzzy bars and museums of Jackson, gateway to Grand Teton. 

Itinerary: 7 days but you can add more days to each if you prefer

Spend 3 days at the Yellowstone National Park, United States of America and feel the boundless horizons of the American West at the Sage Lodge. 

Designated as the world’s first national park in 1872, Yellowstone is indifferent to human timelines; it is a masterpiece of nature millions of years in the making, where bears claw at trout-filled rivers and acid-toned geysers spurt boiling jets into the crisp mountain air. Running through it all is the Grand Loop Road: a rugged, circular, 200-mile seam that rewards drivers with glimpses of eagles, elks and herds of emblematic bison.

Your Experiences: Discover the hills of Paradise Valley on a private horseback ride. Learn all the necessary skills from an experienced wrangler, before rounding off your adventure with a picnic out in the wilderness.

You can add on (optional) for your first 3 days: 

Relax at Wyoming’s most luxurious ranch

Let us line up a leisurely extension to The Ranch at Rock Creek, where five-star facilities see guests lazing on lakeside beaches, stargazing from hot hubs and learning to rope cattle or fly fish from seasoned locals.

Spend the last 4 days Grand Teton National Park, United States of America seeing nature up close in breathtaking cowboy country at the Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa

The wild escapes do not end at Yellowstone’s border; its neighboring national park is a similarly raw adventure, where cone-shaped summits pierce the sky and cottonwood forests rustle over pristine lakes. Binoculars at the ready: Great Teton’s resident bison, bears and mountain lions are thrilling to spot on foot, but even better from a raft on the Snake River, where gentle currents allow for lazy, leisurely screenings of nature’s epic show. 

Your Experiences: Rise with the dawn for a journey with your own private naturalist guide; the early morning promises the greatest chances of glimpsing bison, bears, antelopes and moose. Heading out of Jackson Hole, a stunning recreation hub south of the park, float down Snake River Canyon, viewing stunning natural wonders along the way.

You can add on (optional) for your first 4 days: 

Ride the rapids of the Snake River

The Snake is not always a quiet watercourse; sail away on a thrilling white-water ride as Class III rapids eddy you through the scenic Snake River Canyon.

and/or

Go off-grid at Lone Mountain

For a true taste of wilderness living, trail rides, canoe trips and nature hikes wait at a remote backcountry cattle ranch dating back to 1915.

and/or

Private star gazing experience

Enjoy hot chocolate or apple cider as your personal expert astronomer sets up the telescopes, then search for stars, planets and other deep space objects in Jackson Hole's clear skies, learning about the science and folklore of the night sky throughout the evening.

Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Expedition (Cruise)

Begin your adventure with a one-night stay in Argentina’s vibrant capital, Buenos Aires. Cruise for 17 nights aboard an exclusive charter of Le Lyrial. Explore the Falkland Islands’ colorful history and wildlife with two days on this remote archipelago. 

In South Georgia, visit spectacular king penguin colonies and historic sites from Shackleton’s infamous expedition. A&K’s Expedition Team leads thrilling Zodiac and shore excursions to the White Continent itself. Photo coaching and lectures enrich your time on board. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arrival in Argentina’s capital, you are met and transferred to the Palacio Duhau — Park Hyatt Buenos Aires. In the evening, gather for a welcome cocktail reception.

Day 2 | Ushuaia - At the Edge of the World

Fly to Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city and your gateway to Antarctica. Time permitting, you might opt for a trek in the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve before boarding your vessel and cruising out to sea.

Day 3 | The South Atlantic - Priming Your Lens

Awake to your first morning aboard. Today, cruise east toward the Falkland Islands while A&K's Expedition Team begins its lectures with a focus on photography.

Day 4 | The Falkland Islands - Remote Island Outpost

Today, your Captain may set a course for the remote Falkland Islands, a starkly beautiful sub-Antarctic enclave harboring a wealth of marine and bird life. Weather permitting, take in the rugged beauty of the Falklands as you search for gentoo and rockhopper penguin colonies, and the majestic albatross.

Day 5 | The Falkland Islands - A Closer Look

Conditions permitting, you may visit the historic capital of Stanley or explore its surrounding wilderness areas.

Day 6 | The South Atlantic - On Whale Watch

Today, your planned course continues toward South Georgia, one of the most beautiful places on earth. Whale sightings are common in this stretch of water.

Day 7 | The South Atlantic - The Living Sea

The open ocean is a treasure chest bursting with life. Scan the seas to spot seabirds and marine mammals as the ship cruises the nutrient-rich waters, perhaps passing the distinctive points of the Shag Rocks islets.

Day 8 | South Georgia - Wildlife Haven

The day's planned destination is South Georgia, one of the Southern Ocean's most biodiverse regions. Weather permitting, explore its rugged coves and shores, searching for vast colonies of king penguins.

Day 9 | South Georgia - Shackleton's Legacy

Today, you might learn about the exploits of Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton as your A&K historian reveals significant whaling and exploration sites.

Day 10 | South Georgia - Photographer's Paradise

A photographer's paradise, South Georgia invites you to take your best shot. Conditions permitting, you may visit South Georgia's southern end, a vital habitat populated with fur seals, southern elephant seals and king penguins.

Day 11 | The Scotia Sea - Enrichment at Sea

Today's planned course plies the Scotia Sea. Prepare for your Antarctic arrival with lectures from the experts who know it best.

Day 12 | The Scotia Sea - Antarctic Anticipation

As Antarctica draws closer, your Expedition Team continues to build anticipation with insightful presentations. Between sessions, enjoy a drink and soak in the awe-inspiring views that surround you.

Day 13 | Antarctica - Incredible White Continent

Weather and ice conditions permitting, your Expedition Team takes advantage of the best opportunities for landings on the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands in search of gentoo and chinstrap penguins.

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 14 | Antarctica - Your Team Leads the Way

Conditions permitting, get a closer look at the Antarctic Peninsula or the South Shetland Islands with your Expedition Team, perhaps encountering nesting giant petrels or skuas on your explorations.

Day 15 | Antarctica - Wondrous Wilderness

Antarctica invites another day full of photo ops as snowcapped mountains, shimmering glaciers and iceberg-strewn channels compete for your lens.

Day 16 | Antarctica - A Parting Glimpse

Pause to take it all in on this, your final day in Antarctica. Keep your eyes peeled for species that may have eluded your lens until this point.

Day 17 | The Drake Passage - Storied Seas

Bid farewell to Antarctica as your vessel returns north toward Ushuaia. While cruising this historic passage, keep watch for the giant petrel and the elusive albatross.

Day 18 | The Drake Passage - Reflections at Sea

The ship's transit through the Drake Passage is an interlude for recap and reflection, offering time to compare notes with your expert lecturers on the wildlife, history and geology of the White Continent.

Day 19 | Depart Ushuaia

After your scheduled arrival in Ushuaia, disembark and transfer for your connecting flight to Buenos Aires.

Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands: Holiday Voyage (Cruise)

Cruise for 17 nights on an extended holiday voyage to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, onboard a luxurious mega-yacht exclusively chartered by A&K. Spend two days in the Falkland Islands to explore this remote archipelago’s colorful history and wildlife. Explore historic, wildlife-rich South Georgia, where you visit spectacular king penguin colonies as well as the gravesite of one of Antarctica’s most intrepid explorers, Sir Ernest Shackleton

Celebrate an unforgettable Christmas and New Year’s Eve with spirited onboard festivities while exploring the Southern Ocean. Young guests enjoy additional family programming led by dedicated Young Explorers Guides. Begin your adventure with a one-night stay in Buenos Aires, exploring this fiery Latin city. 

Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina

Upon arrival in Argentina’s capital, you are met and transferred to the Palacio Duhau — Park Hyatt Buenos Aires. In the evening, gather for a welcome cocktail reception.

Day 2 | Ushuaia - Cast Off on Your Family Adventure

Fly to Ushuaia, your gateway to Antarctica. Here, you might opt for a trek in the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve before boarding your vessel and cruising out to sea.

Day 3 | The South Atlantic - Welcome Aboard

Awake to your first morning aboard. Today, cruise east toward the Falkland Islands while A&K’s Expedition Team begins its lecture series and the Young Explorers Guides entertain with a host of onboard activities.

Day 4 | The Falkland Islands - Historic Outpost

Today, your Captain may set a course for the remote Falkland Islands, a starkly beautiful sub-Antarctic enclave harboring a wealth of marine and bird life. Conditions permitting, you may visit the historic capital of Stanley or explore its surrounding wilderness.

Day 5 | The Falkland Islands - A Holiday Celebration

Experience a Christmas Day like no other as you continue your exploration of the West Falkland Islands region. Here, you may spot gentoo or rockhopper penguins, or the majestic albatross. This evening, partake in memorable holiday festivities as your vessel is scheduled to sail toward South Georgia.

Day 6 | The South Atlantic - Cruising to South Georgia

Today, your planned course continues toward South Georgia. Time aboard is once again filled with fascinating lectures by your Expedition Team as well as exciting family-friendly programming led by Young Explorers Guides.

Day 7 | The South Atlantic - Sightings at Sea

As you approach South Georgia, deckside wildlife sightings may become more frequent. This stretch of ocean is a treasure chest bursting with life. Scan for seabirds as you keep an eye out for remote islets like the six distinctively pointed outcroppings of the Shag Rocks.

Day 8 | South Georgia - Wildlife Haven

The day’s planned destination is South Georgia, one of the Southern Ocean’s most biodiverse regions. Weather permitting, explore its glacier-carved coves and rugged shores, searching for vast colonies of king penguins, as well as southern elephant and fur seals.

Day 9 | South Georgia - Legendary Footsteps

Today, you might explore sites with your A&K historian as they share tales of the whaling era and the exploits of legendary explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Day 10 | South Georgia - Photographer’s Paradise

A photographer’s paradise, beguiling South Georgia invites you to take your best shot. Conditions permitting, you may visit the southern end of South Georgia, home to fur seals, southern elephant seals and king penguins.

Day 11 | The Scotia Sea - New Year’s Eve Celebration at Sea

Today’s planned course plies the Scotia Sea. As the end of the year approaches, celebrate with onboard festivities and the anticipation of Antarctica.

Day 12 | The Scotia Sea - Antarctic Anticipation

Awake to a New Year’s Day unlike any other as your Expedition Team ushers in tomorrow’s planned landing on the Antarctic continent.

Day 13 | Antarctica - Incredible White Continent

Weather and ice conditions permitting, your Expedition Team takes advantage of the best opportunities for landings on the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands in search of gentoo and chinstrap penguins.

Day 14 | Antarctica - The Ride of a Lifetime

If the weather holds, younger guests may get a turn at the tiller of a nimble Zodiac boat. In the evening, capture photos in the stunning Antarctic twilight.

Day 15 | Antarctica - Wondrous Wilderness

Antarctica invites another day of adventure as snowcapped mountains, shimmering glaciers and iceberg-strewn channels compete for your attention.

Day 16 | Antarctica - A Parting Glimpse

Pause to take it all in on this, your final day in Antarctica. Keep your eyes peeled for species that may have eluded you until this point.

Day 17 | The Drake Passage - Storied Seas

Bid farewell to Antarctica as your vessel transits north toward Ushuaia and the Young Explorers enjoy activities with their dedicated guide.

Day 18 | The Drake Passage - Reflections at Sea

While cruising this historic passage, keep an eye out for the giant petrel and the elusive albatross.

Day 19 | Depart Ushuaia

After your scheduled arrival in Ushuaia, disembark and transfer to your connecting flight to Buenos Aires.

Voyaging Beyond the Antarctic Circle 2027

Begin your adventure with a stay in Argentina’s vibrant capital, Buenos Aires. Cruise for 13 days aboard an exclusive charter of Le Lyrial. Voyage south of the Antarctic circle to venture farther afield than other expeditions. 

A&K’s Expedition Team leads thrilling Zodiac and shore excursions to the White Continent itself. Sail amid the strikingly beautiful and remote volcanic islets of the South Shetland Islands. Photo coaching and lectures enrich your time on board. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Buenos Aires, Argentina – Touching Down in the Paris of Latin America

Few cities can match the unbridled energy of Buenos Aires. Cutting-edge restaurants and sultry dance halls set the stage for a festive expression of Argentine identity. Upon arrival, head to your hotel in the heart of this colorful capital. Relax with a welcome cocktail ahead of your flight to Ushuaia tomorrow.

Day 2 | Ushuaia– Casting Off from the Edge of the World

Fly to Ushuaia, your gateway to Antarctica and a true frontier in its own right. Beyond its neat streets and waterfront restaurants stretches the dramatic wilderness of Tierra del Fuego, at the very tip of the Americas, where serrated massifs tower above native forests and glaciers calve into fjords in a maze of islands. Here, you might opt for a trek in the Cerro Alarkén Nature Reserve before cruising out to sea.

Day 3 | The Drake Passage – Storied Seas of Legend and Lore

Your adventure at sea begins with a voyage across the storied Drake Passage. Spanning some 600 miles of open ocean, this passage marks the confluence of the humid subpolar conditions of Tierra del Fuego and the frigid polar reaches of Antarctica. Notorious for its squalls, the Drake Passage once made for an unpredictable voyage. Today, your stabilizer-equipped expedition cruiser commands these waters comfortably.

Day 4 | The Drake Passage – Rising Anticipation

Take advantage of the amenities on board as well as university-caliber lectures, all part of a voyage-long enrichment program led by A&K’s Expedition Team. Scan for albatross and storm petrels on deck before gathering in the theater for a briefing on tomorrow’s itinerary —and your first sight of the White Continent.

Day 5 | Antarctica – Meet the White Continent

As Antarctica’s offshore islands appear on the horizon, first sightings of the Antarctic Peninsula become that much more moving and unforgettable. Conditions permitting, your first excursions away from Le Lyrial occur today, an unforgettable introduction to the White Continent’s stunning scenery and captivating wildlife. You may hike on beaches teeming with elephant seals or circumnavigate colossal icebergs occasionally dotted with penguins, returning to relax, look for seabirds or marine life from on deck and continue your ongoing, expert-led enrichment program.

Day 6 | Antarctica – Venturing Beyond the Antarctic Circle

Continue exploring by Zodiac, experiencing this epic wilderness in all its grandeur. Today may be the day your route takes you beyond the Antarctic Circle at 66°34'S, your gateway to far-flung sights seldom seen on other expeditions.

Day 7 | Antarctica – Into Enchanting Wilderness

Today may bring a Zodiac cruise through an area known for its prolific population of humpback whales or visits to sites known for populations of gentoo penguins. Following today's exciting excursions, relax or seize the opportunity to capture photos in the stunning low light characteristic of Antarctica's long twilight.

Day 8 | Antarctica – Discovery Upon Discovery

Your expedition continues with a potential morning landing, and conditions permitting, an afternoon Zodiac cruise. Return to your ship to relax over cocktails in the cozy, comfortable lounge and have dinner in the dining room. You may also choose to recap the day's discoveries with your naturalist guides or spend time on deck with fellow guests.

Day 9 | Antarctica – Stunning Sights at Every Turn

Antarctica’s stunning geography lends an added excitement to every moment: Dramatic snow-capped mountains, shimmering glaciers and iceberg-strewn channels all compete for your attention, making this region a paradise for photographers of any skill level.

Day 10 | Antarctica – Wilderness of Wonders

A last day exploring the Antarctic coast brings more unforgettable excursions, followed by comfortable evenings aboard your luxury cruiser, sipping cocktails in the Panoramic Lounge, recapping the day’s discoveries with your Expedition Team and chatting with fellow guests in one of Le Lyrial’s lounges.

Day 11 | South Shetland Islands, Antarctica – Shackleton’s Enduring Legacy

Le Lyrial cruises the South Shetlands, a remote archipelago of 11 major islands secluded some 75 miles north of the Antarctic Peninsula amid the icy waters of the Drake Passage. It was here that the shipwrecked crew of the 1915 Shackleton expedition survived stranded for 137 days. Today, your Expedition Team looks for opportunities to visit the islands’ volcanic islets and historic sites, as well as gentoo and chinstrap penguin rookeries.

Day 12 | The Drake Passage – Cruising the Passage

You may still be catching your breath over the awe and inspiration experienced in Antarctica as ‘Le Lyrial’ begins the voyage back to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego. The ship’s return through the Drake Passage affords the perfect opportunity for reflection, as well as more conversations and lectures with A&K experts on the Antarctic environment.

Day 13 | The Drake Passage – Reflectiing on the Voyage of a Lifetime

The Drake Passage is a rich source of krill, which fuels the heart of Antarctic food webs and draws wildlife at every turn. Your Expedition Team continues to call you out on deck to witness everything from humpback whales frolicking and bubble-net feeding to the gorgeous blackbrowed albatross and the wandering albatross.

Day 14 | Depart Buenos Aires – The Voyage Ends

After your arrival in Ushuaia, disembark and transfer to your charter flight to Buenos Aires.

Wonders of New Zealand

There’s more time to interact with your Resident Tour Director throughout your journey thanks to a group size of just 14 guests per departure. Relax during a luxurious stay at Longitude 131°, a five-star tented eco-camp with unparalleled views of majestic Uluru.

Revel in a full-day excursion on the Great Barrier Reef, discovering its many splendors firsthand as you swim and snorkel among them. Privately cruise Sydney Harbour, taking in the city’s many landmarks from a fresh perspective, and then explore the iconic Sydney Opera House with a private guide.

Interact with a variety of species emblematic of Australia, including the adorable koala, on a privately guided, insider-access-filled visit to Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. 

Explore the diverse and colorful Daintree Rainforest on an interpretive walk led by a longtime local resident, immersing yourself in the forest’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. 

Cruise New Zealand’s Milford Sound amid soaring, glacier-carved mountain peaks that reflect in its pristine waters. In Queenstown, you’re welcomed into the private home and gallery of a well-known local artist to savor a private wine tasting at a local vineyard. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Auckland, New Zealand

Arrive in Auckland, where you are met and privately transferred to your hotel. Enjoy immediate access to your room which has been pre-registered by A&K. This afternoon, set out to explore must-see city highlights including the Harbour Bridge, Eden Park, Mount Eden and Bastion Point. Later, enjoy a guided, interactive experience that showcases New Zealand's iconic rugby team, the All Blacks, on a privately guided tour that reveals what shapes their success and the story behind their pulse-pounding rendition of the haka, a Maori ceremonial dance.

Day 2 | Auckland - Foods & Wines of Waiheke Island

Board a ferry to Waiheke Island for a day of private food and wine tastings. Enjoy locally-produced specialty foods, accompanied by wines from some of the island's top boutique vineyards, each offering a range of gourmet tastes that complement the experience. Then, enjoy lunch at one of New Zealand's top vineyard restaurants. Return to Auckland for an evening at leisure.

Day 3 | Rotorua - A Visit to Hobbiton in The Shire

Venture through the lush pasturelands of Waikato to rural Matamata, the iconic Middle-Earth film location featured in the smash-hit movie trilogy of The Lord of the Rings. Enjoy a private tour of Hobbiton, the movie set that helped bring J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary stories to vivid life for countless millions of viewers. Behold the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, the gardens of The Shire and other structures, which were built specifically for the films. Proceed to the world-famous Green Dragon Inn, where you can relax and enjoy a beverage before lunch. Afterward, proceed to Rotorua, the cultural heartland of New Zealand. Check in to your hotel and enjoy some time at leisure before dinner together at a local restaurant.

Day 4 | Rotorua - Preserving the Kiwi & Maori Culture

Start your day with a guided geothermal walk for an up-close look at the bubbling mud pools and steaming geysers unique to this region. Then, partake in an A&K-exclusive experience as you enjoy a private tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery. Observe the inner workings of a kiwi nursery and hatchery — the largest of its kind in the world — and hear about the other work being done to conserve the small flightless bird that serves as a proud symbol of this island nation. Afterward, proceed to a local Maori village, where you are traditionally welcomed to the marea (gathering place). Learn about the special occasions celebrated there and discover the site's enduring importance to the tribe. Cap off your visit with lunch hosted in a local private home, gaining insights into the day-to-day life of local people living in Rotorua. Your hosts will present a meal of locally sourced ingredients prepared with Maori traditional tastes and influences. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Day 5 | Wellington - Indigenous Artifacts & Inspiring Views

Fly to Wellington and, upon arrival, visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa to view its vast collection of cultural and indigenous treasures. Ascend by cable car to a scenic outlook point for incredible views over Wellington Harbour and the city to cap off your inspiring day. This evening, gather for dinner together at a local restaurant.

Day 6 | Kaikoura - Marlborough Wine Country

This morning, fly to Blenheim, where you drive to the Omaka Heritage Centre for a behind-the-scenes tour. Afterward, privately explore one of the Marlborough's premier wineries and vineyards, and savor a tasting of its fine wine. This afternoon, board the Coastal Pacific Train for a relaxing ride to Kaikoura, one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand's railways. Gaze out as your train carries you along rugged coastlines, across remote beaches and between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. On arrival in Kaikoura, transfer to your hotel and enjoy some time at leisure before dinner.

Day 7 | Kaikoura - Whale Watching & Culinary Exclusive

Embark on an exciting whale-watching cruise, seeking out a breathtaking up-close encounter with sperm whales, a deep-diving species that was the model for Moby Dick. You may also sight orcas, New Zealand's tiny Hector dolphins or high-spirited dusky dolphins. Kaikoura also boasts the largest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand, including 13 species of albatross, 14 varieties of petrels and seven types of shearwaters. Back on land, proceed to Hapuku Kitchen for an A&K-exclusive Chef 's Table experience that finds you helping prepare a New Zealand dish using locally sourced ingredients. Start by savoring a three-course farm-to-table lunch accompanied by beer and wine. Then, join a chef who guides you around the property foraging in the on-site garden for fruits and herbs. Return to the kitchen with your harvest for a hands-on cooking demonstration under the chef 's supervision, preparing a seasonal dessert. Cap off your culinary adventure by enjoying your delicious creation with a cup of herbal tea. Your evening is at leisure.

Day 8 | Queenstown - After the Gold Rush

Drive to Christchurch for your flight to Queenstown, where you are met and transferred to nearby Arrowtown with time for lunch at leisure and exploring on your own. One of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, Arrowtown was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush, and today features many quaint restaurants to choose from. Afterward, check in to your hotel and later gather for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9 | Queenstown - Milford Sound & Sheep Farm

Board a flight to Milford Sound, taking in the stunning alpine views along the way. Upon arrival, board a vessel for a tour of the sound's majestic scenery. Cruise New Zealand's southern fjords amid towering cliffs, viewing sparkling waterfalls while watching for wildlife. Return by air to Queenstown. This afternoon, transfer to picturesque Real Country Farm, a private 22,000-acre sheep and cattle farm with a rich history. Meet your hosts and learn from them what farming is like in modern New Zealand. Then, step out to see a working sheep dog muster a flock, and feed and interact with the friendly farm animals.

Day 10 | Queenstown - Design Your Day

After a relaxing morning at leisure, enjoy one of these Design Your Day options.

-Embark on an Exhilarating Jet Boat Ride through the stunning natural scenery of the Shotover River Canyons.

-Tour the Otago Wine Region, visiting wineries and tasting wines, including the region's renowned Pinot Noir.

-Hike the Shores of Lake Wakatipu through native beech forest and follow Twelve Mile Creek to view relics from the area's historic old-mining era and take in lake vistas.

This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner.

Day 11 | Depart Queenstown

After breakfast, privately transfer to the airport to board your departing flight.

Australia and New Zealand: The Lands Down Under

There’s more time to interact with your Resident Tour Director throughout your journey thanks to a group size of just 14 guests per departure. Relax during a luxurious stay at Longitude 131°, a five-star tented eco-camp with unparalleled views of majestic Uluru. 

Revel in a full-day excursion on the Great Barrier Reef, discovering its many splendors firsthand as you swim and snorkel among them. Privately cruise Sydney Harbour, taking in the city’s many landmarks from a fresh perspective, and then explore the iconic Sydney Opera House with a private guide  

Interact with a variety of species emblematic of Australia, including the adorable koala, on a privately guided, insider-access-filled visit to Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas. Explore the diverse and colorful Daintree Rainforest on an interpretive walk led by a longtime local resident, immersing yourself in the forest’s cultural heritage and natural wonders  

Cruise New Zealand’s Milford Sound amid soaring, glacier-carved mountain peaks that reflect in its pristine waters. In Queenstown, you’re welcomed into the private home and gallery of a well-known local artist to savor a private wine tasting at a local vineyard. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Melbourne, Australia

Arrive in Melbourne, where you are met and transferred to your luxurious hotel, with your room pre-registered by A&K for immediate check-in. Roam Melbourne's fine arts and sporting precincts as well as its lush parklands, and view cultural and historic highlights, such as the State Library and the Royal Exhibition Building. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Melbourne - City of Magnificent Architecture

This morning, join a local expert guide as you explore the heart of Melbourne on foot, and then by tram. Take in the city's rich and varied architectural landscape and stroll through its labyrinth of atmospheric arcades and alleyways, home to trendy cafés and eclectic boutiques, not to mention graffiti and street art. Following lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 3 | Uluru - An Undeniable Presence

Fly to Uluru (Ayers Rock), where upon arrival you are transferred to your luxury tented camp — Longitude 131° — overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage-listed wilderness of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Enjoy lunch on site, and later, savor a Scenic Sundowner, with chilled glass and canapé in hand, witnessing the changing light reflected on Uluru's surface as the sun slips below the horizon. Tonight, dine among the dunes to the sounds of an indigenous culture and feast on four delicious courses complemented with Australian wines. Later, join your camp's resident astronomer to search the southerly skies.

Day 4 | Uluru - Sunrise Over Kata Tjuta

Rise early and set out for Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), stopping to view sunrise over its majestic domes. In the company of your guide, walk through Walpa Gorge and learn how its stark landscapes were shaped. Return to Uluru and journey along the Mala walk at its base, pausing to view cave paintings and sources of bush tucker. Later, see the walls of Kantju Gorge ablaze with the light of the setting sun. Sip sparkling wine and nibble on canapés, savoring the solitude of the gorge as the daylight fades.

Day 5 | Palm Cove - Tropical Beach Paradise

Fly to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Upon arrival transfer up the coast to your hotel in Palm Cove, a charming, cosmopolitan beach-side village. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6 | Great Barrier Reef - Exploring Underwater Gems

Embark by boat on a full-day exploration of the Great Barrier Reef, a dazzling UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join on-board marine biologists for guided snorkeling expeditions of two different reef locations, and discover the marvelous aquatic wonders inhabiting each, viewing the teeming undersea life — including distinctive coral formations and colorful schools of fish — up close, before an exhilarating cruise back to port.

Day 7 | Daintree Rainforest - Private Koala Visit

Travel overland to Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, which you explore privately with a park ranger, enjoying access to the koala and wallaby enclosures as well as the opportunity to interact with a koala, on an A&K-exclusive experience. Also, visit the Wildlife Care Center for rescued wild and injured animals and explore the park at your leisure. Next, journey to a private estate in the Daintree Rainforest, where you are welcomed by the family that has owned it for over 30 years. Set out on an interpretive walk through the rainforest, led by a longtime resident intimately familiar with this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's an immersive experience that blends local cultural and natural heritage with ecological values and biodiversity to reveal the fascinating interrelationships of a deeply complex ecosystem.

Day 8 | Sydney - Luxury in the Rocks

Fly to Sydney, enjoying a city tour on arrival. Sink your toes in the sand at the surfer's paradise of Bondi Beach and stroll the boutique shops of Paddington, a neighborhood filled with Victorian and Georgian architecture. Transfer to your luxury hotel, perfectly set near Sydney Harbour.

Day 9 | Sydney - Harbor Cruise & Opera House Experience

After breakfast, privately cruise Sydney Harbour, viewing the city's highlights, such as the Harbor Bridge. Back on shore, enjoy lunch at a restaurant near the iconic Sydney Opera House, followed by a privately guided backstage experience at the celebrated venue.

Day 10 | Sydney - A Day at Leisure

Finish your journey in Australia with a day at your leisure. Tonight, gather for a Chef's Table experience at a local restaurant with grand views of the city.

Day 11 | Wellington, New Zealand - An Eclectic Capital

This morning, fly to Wellington, New Zealand's trendsetting capital, where you encounter authentic "Kiwi” life. This afternoon, take in highlights of this buzzworthy center of art and cuisine. Ascend by cable car to a scenic outlook point for incredible views over Wellington Harbour and the city to cap your inspiring day.

Day 12 | Wellington - Design Your Day

Set out on foot to gain an insider's understanding of New Zealand's culinary capital, joining your guide for tastings of gourmet products in foodie hotspots only the locals know. Then, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

-Visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa to view its vast collection of cultural and indigenous treasures.

-e-Bike the Wellington Waterfront, learning about key historical figures that shaped the city's heritage as you ride.

-Walk the Wellington Waterfront With a Guide who recounts local legends and stroll to a chic shopping district.

Return to your hotel.

Day 13 | Queenstown - Exploring the City

Fly to Queenstown, located on New Zealand's South Island. Upon arrival, explore the city, visiting the famed bungee-jump site and Arrowtown, and then enjoy lunch. Afterward, check in to your luxurious hotel.

Day 14 | Queenstown - Magnificent Milford Sound

This morning, fly to Milford Sound (weather permitting), taking in the stunning alpine views along the way. Upon arrival, board your vessel for a tour of the sound's majestic scenery. Cruise New Zealand's southern fjords amid towering cliffs, viewing sparkling waterfalls while watching for wildlife, such as seals basking on the rocks or dolphins frolicking in the water. Return by air to Queenstown for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 15 | Queenstown - Private Artist Visit & Wine Tasting

Today, privately visit the home and gallery of a noted local artist to learn about the artist's history and techniques. Stop at a local restaurant for a delicious lunch served with paired wines, and then proceed to a local winery for a private tour and a wine tasting.

Day 16 | Auckland - Guided Gallery Visit

Fly to Auckland, where you enjoy a guided, interactive experience that showcases New Zealand’s iconic rugby team, the All Blacks, on a privately guided tour that reveals what shapes their success and the story behind their pulse-pounding rendition of the haka, a Maori ceremonial dance. This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner.

Day 17 | Depart Auckland

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Classic Japan

Come in spring to witness the dazzling profusion of white and pink cherry blossoms, known locally as sakura, or visit in autumn to view the vivid red leaves at their peak. Feel the vitality of neon-lit Tokyo as you try your hand at taiko drums and peruse a seafood market  

Experience the timeless hospitality of Gôra Kadan, one of the country’s most exclusive ryokans (traditional inns), on a stay made possible by A&K’s small group size. With the snow-capped majesty of Mount Fuji for a backdrop, zoom by bullet train to Osaka, where you explore the lively Dotonbori district

Discover the art of the tea ceremony, witness sumo wrestling and take part in a special geisha dinner, encountering the rich cultural heritage of Japan at every turn. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Tokyo, Japan

Arrive in Tokyo, Japan's exciting and modern capital. Transfer to your hotel, located near the Imperial Palace.

Day 2 | Tokyo - Spiritual Centers & Exclusive Workshop

Visit Asakusa Kannon Temple, a colorful pagoda-style temple completed in 645 and dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy in several East Asian spiritual traditions. Continue to a family-owned workshop that specializes in Japanese drum making — and try your hand at playing the taiko — on an A&K-exclusive experience. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before exploring the Tokyo National Museum, home to a vast collection of Japanese art and antiquities. Continue to Meiji Shrine, a Shinto complex dedicated to an emperor that was rebuilt after World War II. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner.

Day 3 | Tokyo - Design Your Day

Start your day at a local fish market, a bustling hub of Japanese daily life boasting a dizzying array of seafood. Then, receive a lesson in sushi making, followed by lunch, during a Chef's Table experience. This afternoon, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

-Explore Tokyo's Art Scene with a visit to Mori Art Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art.

-Learn the Secrets of the Samurai Warriors and test your sword skills during a private class led by a modern-day master samurai.

-Indulge in a Sake Tasting, sampling some of Japan's finest sake and learning about its cultural importance.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Day 4 | Hakone - Traditional Ryokan

Travel to Hakone, among Japan's most popular hot-spring destinations, and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Board an aerial tram rising above the wooded slopes for inspiring views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy lunch before strolling the grassy hillsides of Hakone's Open Air Museum. Admire the impressive contemporary sculptures and artwork on display, including pieces by Henry Moore and Rodin. The museum also features one of the world's finest Picasso exhibits, with over 100 works by the cubist master. Tonight, experience unparalleled service and traditional Japanese cuisine at Gôra Kadan, a top-rated ryokan (traditional inn), which is also your accommodation for the night.

Day 5 | Osaka - Dotonbori District Delicacies

After breakfast at your ryokan, visit the Okada Museum of Art to view its stunning collection of paintings, ceramics, lacquerware and bronzes from Japan, Korea and China. Then, ride like a local by bullet train to Osaka. Historically known as a merchant city, it is today renowned as Japan's undisputed culinary capital, where diners indulge in everything from octopus dumplings to okonomiyaki, a battered, grilled concoction of chopped cabbage, meat or seafood, and seaweed, topped with mayonnaise. This evening, take in city views, refreshing drink in hand, on a Scenic Sundowner before you set out to explore the popular Dotonbori District, sampling dishes from the brilliantly lighted and gastronomically creative restaurants that line the street.

Day 6 | Nara - Insights into a Profoundly Spiritual Heritage

Travel to Nara, Japan's first capital, to visit Todai-ji, a temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the largest bronze Buddha statue in Japan. Proceed to Nara Park, home to hundreds of deer, venerated here as divine spirits, which you have the opportunity to feed by hand. Afterward, experience a Shinto ceremony firsthand at the celebrated Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Pause for lunch at a local restaurant before proceeding to the Kehaya-za Sumo Pavilion, where you observe a demonstration of this fabled Japanese sport by two sumo wrestlers. Return to your hotel, where you enjoy dinner.

Day 7 | Kyoto - The Golden Pavilion & Bamboo Grove

Travel into Kyoto early this morning to contemplate the iconic Zen rock garden at Ryoan-ji, the perfect spot for a meditative moment, and discover the glittering Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) — covered with gold leaf and surrounded by green gardens — casting its delicate reflection in the tranquil pond beside it. After lunch, explore the Arashiyama neighborhood, including the garden of Tenryu-ji Temple. Later, bask in the magical atmosphere of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, strolling along a winding path as sunlight filters down through towering bamboo shoots, considered by many a healing experience.

Day 8 | Kyoto - Hillside Views & Tea Traditions

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple for stunning views of Kyoto. Proceed to a local temple to experience the art of the tea ceremony, noting its refined sense of hospitality and etiquette, which dates to the time of the samurai. Tonight, savor traditional Japanese cuisine while an attending geiko (as a geisha is known in Kyoto) and maiko (apprentice geisha) dance, sing, pour sake and share stories about life in modern Kyoto.

Day 9 | Depart Kyoto

After breakfast, transfer to Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport, both located just outside of Osaka, for your flight home, or begin a post-tour extension to Hiroshima.

China & the Yangtze

Marvel at the stunning vistas of the famed Three Gorges region during a three-night cruise on the Yangtze River aboard the new, all-balcony Yangzi Explorer II . Experience the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. 

Meet the army of an emperor, viewing the astonishing Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian, noting how each sports unique facial features, and learning their history from an on-site specialist. 

Encounter an animal emblematic of China when you go up close to giant pandas as they roam through a recreated habitat, and discover the secrets of their daily routine and diet. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Beijing, China

Arrive in the capital city of Beijing, China's longtime seat of power, where you are transferred to your luxurious hotel.

Day 2 | Beijing - China's Dynastic Capital

Today, participate in a privately led tai chi lesson taught by a master instructor at the Temple of Heaven, a stunning example of classical Ming period architecture. After lunch, visit history-laden Tiananmen Square before exploring the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City. Tonight, gather for a special welcome dinner at your hotel.

Day 3 | Beijing - View the World from the Great Wall

Travel to the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. Ride a cable car to the top of the wall to take in sweeping mountain views. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and then return to the city to walk through a Hutong, an intimate neighborhood of alleyways dating to China's dynastic period.

Day 4 | Xian - Key to the Great Silk Road

Fly to Xian, a modern city cloaked in over 3,000 years of history. Once the eastern terminus on the Great Silk Road, Xian has become a melting pot of Middle Eastern and Asian influences. Upon arrival, enjoy a Chef's Table dumpling-making demonstration, followed by lunch. Visit the old city's Muslim Quarter, with its teeming markets and beautiful Great Mosque, a 14th-century national heritage site. A blend of classic Chinese temple architecture and central Asian embellishments make it one of the most fascinating sites in Xian.

Day 5 | Xian - Terra Cotta Warriors, Army for the Afterlife

Today, accompanied by an on-site specialist, visit the excavation site of the Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses, the life-size army created during the Qin Dynasty to protect Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor, in his afterlife. More than 8,000 remarkably crafted soldiers are spread throughout three dig pits, each revealing a unique face. After lunch, stroll along the impressive ramparts of the City Wall. Tonight, gather for dinner.

Day 6 | Chengdu - Exploring People's Park

Travel by bullet train to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. For lunch, enjoy a spicy Sichuan hot pot, a regional specialty. Afterward, immerse yourself in local life and culture at People's Park, where area residents play traditional Chinese instruments, practice calligraphy and engage in tai chi. While there, learn about unique, centuries-old matchmaking techniques still in use today before checking in to your hotel, where you observe a traditional tea demonstration.

Day 7 | Chengdu & Chongqing - Giant Pandas

Today, visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding and Research Center. Enjoy the rare opportunity to observe these endangered creatures roaming freely in their specially designed habitat. Then, board a high-speed train for a ride through the Chinese countryside to Chongqing, where you embark on your river cruiser, Yangzi Explorer II, for a three-night journey to Yichang. Settle into your cabin as the ship sets a course downstream to the stunning Three Gorges region. Tonight, attend the captain's reception.

Day 8 | Cruising the Yangtze - Along Asia's Great River

Start with tai chi on the deck before breakfast. Disembark in the small city of Fuling and visit the 816 Nuclear Military Plant, a massive yet unfinished Cold War era bunker. Back on board, continue your journey downstream, observing villages and farms set amid the lush mountainscape.

Day 9 | Cruising the Yangtze - The Three Gorges

Early this morning, Yangzi Explorer II navigates the Qutang Gorge before docking at Wushan. Disembark and take in the scenic splendor of this rugged yet lush region on an adventure among the high peaks that surround the river. In the afternoon, continue your journey downstream, passing through the majestic Wu and Xiling Gorges. Tonight, arrive at the Three Gorges Dam and pass through the ship lift.

Day 10 | Yichang & Shanghai - Disembark Yangzi Explorer II

This morning, disembark in Yichang and fly to Shanghai. Upon arrival in Shanghai, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking into your elegant hotel, located on the city’s historic Bund..

Day 11 | Shanghai - Design Your Day

Explore dynamic Shanghai, where stunning modern skylines meet classic street markets and gardens. Head to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower, where you are treated to a bird's-eye view of the Huangpu River, the Bund and Shanghai's panorama of skyscrapers. This afternoon, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

-Walk Shanghai's Historic Jewish Quarter and learn how it became a haven for Jews fleeing Europe in World War II.

-Try Your Hand at Calligraphy at a class led by an expert in this venerated Chinese art.

-Cycle Through Pudong, exploring Shanghai's newest district filled with gleaming skyscrapers.

Then, toast your day with a relaxing Scenic Sundowner.

Day 12 | Shanghai - Walking the Bund

Today, walk along the Bund, Shanghai's most popular promenade, and then explore the Shanghai Museum viewing exceptional collections of historically significant art and housewares. Savor lunch at a local restaurant, and later stroll the streets of Old Town and visit the 16th-century Yu Garden, with its pavilions and ponds.

Day 13 | Depart Shanghai

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to depart for home.

Mountains and Myths in China and Tibet

Stand atop a restored section of the Great Wall near Beijing, taking in rolling mountain vistas. Learn about Yunnan’s diverse minorities including the Naxi culture in Lijiang. 

Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture in Lhasa and Shangri-La. 

Explore the iconic Potala Palace and Sera Monastery in Lhasa, at the heart of Tibetan spirituality. Take in the scenic wonders of Yunnan such as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Tiger Leaping Gorge and the otherworldly Stone Forest. Experience the best of bustling Hong Kong, the classic East-Meets-West destination. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Beijing, China

Beijing is China’s capital, a cultural and political nerve center more than 20 million people call home. Among them are our on-the-ground local experts who help open doors to the city’s most extraordinary experiences.

Day 2 | Beijing – Walking the Great Wall

Meander by pedicab through a hutong — a neighborhood of small winding alleyways — witnessing local daily life firsthand. Then travel outside the city to the well-preserved Mutianyu section of the Great Wall of China. Walk or ride a cable car to the top and view the stunning mountains. Return to Beijing, where tonight you gather for a welcome dinner.

Day 3 | Lijiang – Legends and Lost Horizons

Fly to Lijiang, a city surrounded by the lofty peaks of the Hengduan Mountains in China’s southwestern Yunnan Province. Home to over a million residents, Lijiang is the hub of the Naxi minority, the descendants of Tibetan nomads. Begin your explorations at Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll Black Dragon Pool Park, its arched bridge, wood pagoda and snow-crowned mountain backdrop forming a living postcard. Stop by the Dongba Museum to learn more about the Naxi culture.

Day 4 | Lijiang

Immerse yourself in the local cultures surrounding Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on a guided tour. Ride by cable car up to Yak Meadow and enjoy a scenic stroll, absorbing the mountain vistas. Proceed to Yuhu Village, where you visit with a Naxi family to learn more about their unique culture, including Naxi traditional dress, and try your hand at their pictographic language.

Day 5 | Shangri-La – Tiger Leaping Gorge

Take a scenic drive to Shangri-La, a city named after the Hilton novel’s mythical Tibetan paradise. Cross an 8,600-foot pass, taking in the view of the Yangtze River flowing through the valley below. Stop in the charming village of Shigu to visit a memorial commemorating a historic military action. Eat lunch before continuing to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest chasms. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, settle into your modern hotel overlooking Old Town (also called Dukezong Ancient Town).

Day 6 | Shangri-La – Monastery Visit

Immerse yourself in the Tibetan culture of Shangri-La with a visit to the 300-year-old Songzangling Monastery, also known as Little Potala Palace. Stop into a Tibetan family’s home and sip yak butter tea before visiting the Tibetan Culture Museum to view a colorful thangka (traditional Buddhist painting) exhibition. Climb to Guishan Temple for scenic views and the opportunity to spin one of the largest prayer wheels in the world. Return to Old Town this evening before savoring a Tibetan hot pot dinner.

Day 7 | Lhasa – Gateway to Tibet

Fly to Lhasa, the heart and soul of Tibet, one of the highest cities on earth at 12,000 feet. Enjoy an afternoon on your own, free to relax and acclimatize.

Day 8 | Lhasa – Buddhist Treasures

Wander Lhasa’s colorful Barkhor Bazaar, perusing lively market stalls selling all manner of handicrafts, such as ornate prayer wheels, embroidered thangkas and Buddhist rubbings. You may find yourself standing side by side with Tibetan and Chinese residents or even nomads from eastern Tibet. Then discover the spiritual heart of Tibet at the sacred Jokhang, a 1,300-year-old temple housing Tibet’s most revered golden Buddha. Then venture just outside the city to the Sera Monastery, famous for its tantric teachings.

Day 9 | Lhasa – Palace of the Dalai Lama

Begin the day with Sanggye Dhunghor, where some 200 statues are carved into a dramatic rock face. Next, set foot in the towering Potala Palace, considered the crowning glory of Lhasa. Once a center of political and religious power, it contained the living quarters of the Dalai Lamas as well as their golden tombs. Proceed to the Dalai Lama’s former summer residence at Norbulingka, a colorful palace surrounded by ponds, gardens and pavilions. This evening, sip cocktails and learn about Tibetan traditional dress, perhaps donning the garments yourself.

Day 10 | Kunming – City of Eternal Spring

Fly to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province. This “city of eternal spring” is surrounded by mountains on three sides. Kunming’s proximity to several nations just across China’s southeastern border has made it an important transit hub throughout history. Benefiting from abundant annual rainfall and a temperate climate, local gardens bursting with azaleas and rhododendrons are plentiful. Visit Western Hills, a park offering scenic outlooks and temples such as the stone-carved Dragon Gate.

Day 11 | Kunming – A Forest of Stone

Discover one of the most unusual landscapes in China, the Stone Forest. Hike among the rock pillars, spotting notable formations such as Baby Elephant, Baby Buffalo and Moon-Gazing Rhino. Stop at the Shilin Karst Geology Museum before returning to Kunming.

Day 12 | Hong Kong – Where East Meets West in Style

Walk along colorful, fragrant Yongdao Street, perusing its markets full of flowers, birds and fish before flying to Hong Kong, famed for its dazzling high-rise skyline, electric atmosphere and non-stop nightlife. The original “East meets West” Asian locale, Hong Kong is a capital of culture and a center of world trade. Enjoy an evening to explore the city as you please.

Day 13 | Hong Kong – Bustling Markets to Fishing Villages

Experience the city’s bustling market culture with stops at a herbal market, street-side antique shops and an open-air curio market. Ride the funicular up to Victoria Peak for a stunning view of Victoria Harbour, and finish with a traditional sampan (wooden boat) ride through the local fishing villages. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner.

Day 14 | Depart Hong Kong

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport to board your departing flight.

Christmas in Lapland 

Explore Porvoo, one of Finland’s oldest towns, and tour the festive family home of national poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg. Snowshoe, ice fish or take a polar plunge with your choice of Design Your Day experiences in Rovaniemi. 

Ride by snowmobile into the Finnish countryside, where a rustic log chalet awaits with gingerbread and stories by the fire. Visit a Finnish family in their private forest home to get a taste of Lapland frontier life. 

In Swedish Lapland, try your hand at traditional Sami crafts beside a crackling fireplace. Tour Stockholm’s Skansen open-air museum and sparkling Christmas market. 

Itnerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Helsinki, Finland

Arrive in Helsinki, a political, intellectual and cultural capital renowned for its fiercely independent artists and architects. The city’s warren of bays, inlets and islands invites guests to wander broad, tree-lined boulevards in search of world-class cultural, dining and shopping opportunities.

Day 2 | Helsinki | Capital City and Medieval Town

This morning, explore Helsinki’s Temppeliaukio Church, an iconic structure hewn directly into solid rock. Continue to medieval Porvoo, one of Finland’s oldest towns. Here, take in the festive atmosphere as you stroll amid traditional wooden shops and houses fully bedecked for the holiday season. Cap off your excursion with a festive tour of the home of Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Finland’s national poet.

Day 3 | Rovaniemi | The Heart of Finnish Lapland

Embark on the Lapland leg of your holiday adventure with a short flight to Rovaniemi, perched on the Arctic Circle. The high Arctic in microcosm, Rovaniemi is renowned the world over as the legendary realm of Santa Claus and his elves. Here, at a secluded lakefront cabin, take your pick from one of these Design Your Day options.

-Try Your Hand at Ice Fishing, learning time-tested tips and tricks from the locals.

Snowshoe Through the Woods, immersed in the quiet beauty of the untouched wilderness.

-Experience Ice Floating, donning a survival suit for an unforgettable polar plunge in the lake’s Arctic waters.

Back at your hotel, a hearty dinner of Lappish dishes awaits.

Day 4 | Rovaniemi | Sleighing and Snowmobiling

Visit a local reindeer farm to meet the family that has worked on this land for seven generations. After a tour of the farm, hop aboard a reindeer sleigh for a romp through the forest. Then, change mounts for an Arctic snowmobile safari to a remote wooden cabin where you decorate (and taste) gingerbread along with a side of local folklore.

Day 5 | Rovaniemi | A Taste of Frontier Living

Get under the skin of rural Lapland with a visit to Palovaara Farm, home to the Posio family since 1860. Hosted by hunter and fisherman Jakko, explore the family’s generations-long history in the region and tuck into a traditional lunch of game and foraged berries. The rest of your day is free to relax or join your guide for an all-ages visit to Santa’s house.

Day 6 | Swedish Lapland | Sami Traditions

Cross a far-north frontier this morning as you pass from Finnish Lapland into Swedish Lapland. Next, step inside a local family home, where you try your hand at traditional Sami crafts beside a crackling fireplace. After a traditional Swedish Christmas lunch, head to nearby Lulea for your short flight to Stockholm.

Day 7 | Stockholm | One Last Holiday Toast

Stockholm is gorgeous: historic palaces, impressive castles, waterways and bridges, with a soaring ABBA soundtrack over the top. It’s easy to explore on foot, from the cobbled medieval streets of the old town Gamla Stan to the creative district of Sodermalm. Begin your tour with a visit to the Vasa Museum’s restored 17th-century ship. Then, stroll Skansen, an open-air museum of Swedish traditions, which hosts a bustling Christmas market. Take some free time for a bit of last-minute shopping or sightseeing at your own pace. This evening, gather with your fellow guests for a special farewell dinner as you recall the adventures of your festive journey.

Day 8 | Depart Stockholm

A New Year's Eve Cruise on the Danube

Ring in the New Year along the Danube River, with a grand fireworks display in Budapest celebrated from the privacy of your riverboat. Begin with a revealing tour of Munich’s iconic Residence Palace. In Vienna, stroll the stunning halls of Schönbrunn Palace and waltz like a pro with a private lesson in an exclusive local dance school. Explore Slovakian cuisine with a local chef in Bratislava. In the Austrian town of Melk, visit a Benedictine abbey housing a vast library of medieval manuscripts. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Munich, Germany

Effortless style, warm summers and cold al fresco beers: little wonder Munich is wryly described as Italy’s most northern city. And yet the Bavarian capital is Germany at its most quintessential: the home of lederhosen, rococo palaces and BMW. In this former royal capital in the shadow of the Alps, days can be spent drifting from one world-class art gallery to the next, hitting the boutiques of Maximilianstrasse or idling by the banks of the Eisbach as it ripples through the vast English Garden.

Day 2 | Munich | Casting Off

Today, visit Munich’s Residence Palace, followed by time to explore the city on your own. Then, board your riverboat in nearby Passau. After relaxing in your cabin or suite, meet fellow guests for a cocktail and dinner on board.

Day 3 | Vienna, Austria | Waltzing Along the Danube

Perched on the banks of the Danube, there’s an effortless elegance to the place Beethoven called home. Here, drive the famous Ringstrasse, explore Schönbrunn Palace and step the Viennese waltz in one of the city’s most esteemed dance schools.

Day 4 | Budapest, Hungary | Ringing in the New Year

The Hungarian capital has long been one of Europe’s great powerhouses, and it certainly looks the part – the Danube is the living line between Buda and Pest, the spires of the national parliament shimmering in its surface, the neoclassical dome of St Stephen’s Basilica behind. Take in the city’s main sights, including Fisherman’s Bastion, Heroes’ Square and the Great Synagogue, followed by a visit to the Parliament building. This evening, the city is illuminated by a spectacular fireworks display as you cruise the Danube on a floating New Year’s Eve celebration unlike any other.

Day 5 | Budapest | New Year’s Day

After a leisurely morning, your ship leaves Budapest with the remainder of the afternoon spent cruising the Danube.

Day 6 | Bratislava, Slovakia | Culinary Adventure

Bratislava’s Gothic old town is offset by Baroque palaces, imposing castles, communist-era apartment blocks and over-the-top statues. Here, see the castle and the "fairy tale" Blue Church. Then, join a local chef for a hands-on cooking class preparing classic Slovakian dishes. After time to explore Bratislava on your own, attend a private cocktail party and chef’s dinner.

Day 7 | Melk, Austria | Palatial Abbey

Arrive in Melk, where you visit its famed Benedictine abbey. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube, the abbey allures with soaring gilded towers, an elaborately frescoed church and a vast library of medieval manuscripts. This evening, attend a Captain’s gala dinner on board.

Day 8 | Munich, Germany | Brewery Visit

Return to Passau and disembark your boat for a walking tour of the town. Continue to Munich, where you visit a traditional, family-owned brewery for a tasting and lunch. Tonight, join your fellow guests for a farewell dinner.

Day 9 | Depart Munich

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Cruise the Rhine to Europe's Christmas Markets

Stroll the streets of Strasbourg, home to one of Europe’s most stylish Christmas markets, and taste wines in the Cave des Hospices, the city’s oldest cellar. Venture into the Black Forest to visit Freiburg’s market, exploring the small villages of the Alsace wine route along the way.

Cruise the Rhine River, experiencing exclusive sightseeing in your private small-group vehicle, escorted by your own Resident Tour Director.

Savor the seasonal wines, cuisine and shopping of Heidelberg. In Cologne, explore the city’s majestic cathedral, browse its bustling market and sample lebkuchen, a traditional holiday gingerbread

Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive Strasbourg, France

The Alsatian capital of Strasbourg delights with its charming neighborhoods, narrow streets, superb eateries, and eclectic mix of medieval, Renaissance and Art Nouveau architecture. The city was a major trade hub in the Middle Ages and its marketplaces and squares remain lively today — and never more so than during the holiday season.

Day 2 | Strasbourg | Timeless Christmas Market

Explore Strasbourg in the company of a local expert, followed by a specially arranged tasting at the Cave des Hospices, the city’s oldest wine cellar. Browse the city’s bustling Christmas market before boarding your riverboat.

Day 3 | Freiburg, Germany | Into the Black Forest

Embark on an overland day trip to Freiburg, Germany, gateway to the Black Forest region and site of a bustling Weihnachtsmarkt. After time to explore and shop on your own, cross back into France along the Alsace Wine Road, each village revealing markets and history more beautiful than the last.

Day 4 | Heidelberg | Christmas Within the Castle Walls

The lively university town of Heidelberg with its Christmas markets is an unforgettable setting for a holiday season excursion. Stroll the historic city center under the looming walls of Heidelberg Castle, pausing for a wine tasting paired with lunch. This evening, enjoy a private cocktail party followed by a Chef’s Table dinner, an A&K exclusive.

Day 5 | Rüdesheim and Koblenz | Cruising the Rhine Gorge

Awake in Rüdesheim to stroll the city’s charming Christmas market. Back on board, cruise a postcard-perfect stretch of river, the famous Rhine Gorge. Later, set out on a walking tour of Koblenz and its medieval center, capping things off with a Captain’s Gala dinner back aboard.

Day 6 | Bonn | Christmas Under Iconic Spires

Disembark in Cologne and travel overland to Bonn, the former provisional capital of West Germany. Here, visit the spired Bonn Minster, one of Germany’s oldest churches, and celebrate the life of the great composer at the Beethoven-Haus Museum. Return to Cologne and check in to your hotel in the heart of the city.

Day 7 | Cologne | Beethoven’s Legacy

Cologne is a Gothic masterpiece and cultural hub renowned for its reconstructed Old Town. The city is also home to storied Cologne Cathedral, with its filigree twin spires, gilded medieval reliquary and panoramic river views. Join a local expert for a city walk, followed by a free afternoon to visit the city’s inviting Christmas markets and museums. Tonight, gather at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner.

Day 8 | Depart Cologne

Iceland: Reykjavik to the Golden Circle 

Hit the town with visits to Reykjavik‘s iconic Hallgrimskirkja Church, acclaimed Harpa performance center and a preserved medieval ship. Whale watch for blue, fin, minkes and humpbacks in Reykjavik Harbour.

Your luxurious country retreat affords a front-row seat to Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes. Venture from the Golden Circle to South Iceland in search of breathtaking lava fields, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and crater lakes.

A Super Jeep tour through Thorsmork (the Valley of Thor) reveals snowy peaks, jade-green slopes and glacial rivers. Have a farm-to-table lunch at a family-run greenhouse in Fridheimar. Design Your Day with a final stop in Reykjavik,

Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive Reykjavik, Iceland

Arrive in Reykjavik and transfer to your modern hotel in the city center. Tonight, join fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Reykjavik - True Cosmopolitan Capital

Spend the day exploring both the contemporary and traditional sides of this cultured coastal capital. Start with a visit to the National Museum of Iceland, which tells the story of Iceland's founding through some 2,000 objects, including a medieval ship of the type used to settle the island. You then visit Hallgrimskirkja Church, the city's most prominent landmark. Pause to take in the exterior of the Harpa, a cutting-edge performance center built in 2011. This award-winning structure features a striking colored-glass façade designed to evoke Iceland's basalt landscape. This afternoon, embark on a thrilling whale-watching boat ride. About 20 species, such as blue whales, fin whales, minkes and humpbacks, each with its own characteristics and behaviors, visit Icelandic waters throughout the year. Marvel as these magnificent giants surface, sometimes within a few yards of your vessel, affording you an unforgettable, up-close wildlife encounter.

Day 3 | Golden Circle - Saga Sites

Thingvellir National Park is that rare locale that is significant both as a scenic wonder and a cultural treasure: a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Vikings established the world's first democratic parliament more than 1,000 years ago. It's also one of the few places you can straddle two continents at once, as the conjunction of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is exposed here. Next, visit the regularly erupting Strokkur Geyser and stunning Gullfoss, where milky green glacial water plummets down Iceland's most famous waterfall. Tonight, check in to your luxury retreat nestled in the wild Icelandic countryside, and raise a toast to the spectacular icy landscapes around you with an exhilarating Scenic Sundowner.

Torfhus Retreat

Day 4 | Thorsmork - Jeep Adventure Through Wild Terrain

After breakfast, embark on a Super Jeep tour through Thorsmork (Valley of Thor), a vast nature reserve of snowy peaks, jade-green slopes and glacial rivers trickling through dark volcanic earth. In a land already known for scenic beauty, Thorsmork is a gem among gems, a paradise for trekkers and photographers. Explore today with a skilled driver-guide, who leads you along the trails and rivers while discussing the reserve's history, geology and wildlife. After working up an appetite in the great outdoors, stop in the midst of the wild for an al fresco barbecue lunch, taking in the fresh air and striking beauty of this rugged natural setting. Tonight, indulge in a Chef's Table experience at your hotel.

Torfhus Retreat

Day 5 | South Iceland - Forces of Nature & Super Foods

Today, witness majestic works of unchecked natural power, starting with the Urridafoss, the most voluminous waterfall in Iceland, watching as it plummets down to the sprawling Thjorsarhraun lava field. Then, visit Selfoss, where the past intertwines seamlessly with the present, as 35 meticulously restored historic buildings have over time transformed into a bustling cultural hub. Inaugurated in 2021, this center fuses avant-garde architecture with the rich tapestry of Iceland's heritage. Stop at the Old Dairy Selfoss food hall to savor contemporary Icelandic flavors for a delightful introduction to the nation's evolving food culture. Continue to the Skyrland exhibition to sample skyr, Iceland's distinct superfood, and take in a multi-sensory journey encompassing visuals, aromas, and flavors related to this Viking dairy delicacy. Afterward, view Kerid, a volcanic crater lake. Its caldera is still intact and the lake never drains out because it is at the level of the groundwater. Then, visit greenhouse farmers at Fridheimar to learn how they grow tomatoes year round using geothermal energy. Tonight, experience the diversity of Icelandic food as you enjoy dinner in the greenhouse.

Torfhus Retreat

Day 6 | Reykjavik - Design Your Day

Return to Reykjavik and enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

• Embark on a Walking Foodie Tour of local markets and culinary hotspots to sample the best of Icelandic cuisine.
• Thrill to the Icelandic Lava Show with VIP admission to safely view red-hot flowing lava up close.
• Immerse Yourself in Geothermal Warmth as you sink into a natural hot tub in Sky Lagoon, overlooking the ocean.

Afterward, return to your hotel. Gather this evening for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7 | Depart Reykjavik

Enjoy breakfast before privately transferring to the airport for your departing flight.

A New Year's Eve Cruise on the Danube

Ring in the New Year along the Danube River, with a grand fireworks display in Budapest celebrated from the privacy of your riverboat. Begin with a revealing tour of Munich’s iconic Residence Palace. In Vienna, stroll the stunning halls of Schönbrunn Palace and waltz like a pro with a private lesson in an exclusive local dance school. Explore Slovakian cuisine with a local chef in Bratislava. In the Austrian town of Melk, visit a Benedictine abbey housing a vast library of medieval manuscripts. 

Itinerary: 

Day 1 | Arrive Munich, Germany

Effortless style, warm summers and cold al fresco beers: little wonder Munich is wryly described as Italy’s most northern city. And yet the Bavarian capital is Germany at its most quintessential: the home of lederhosen, rococo palaces and BMW. In this former royal capital in the shadow of the Alps, days can be spent drifting from one world-class art gallery to the next, hitting the boutiques of Maximilianstrasse or idling by the banks of the Eisbach as it ripples through the vast English Garden.

Day 2 | Munich | Casting Off

Today, visit Munich’s Residence Palace, followed by time to explore the city on your own. Then, board your riverboat in nearby Passau. After relaxing in your cabin or suite, meet fellow guests for a cocktail and dinner on board.

Day 3 | Vienna, Austria | Waltzing Along the Danube

Perched on the banks of the Danube, there’s an effortless elegance to the place Beethoven called home. Here, drive the famous Ringstrasse, explore Schönbrunn Palace and step the Viennese waltz in one of the city’s most esteemed dance schools.

Day 4 | Budapest, Hungary | Ringing in the New Year

The Hungarian capital has long been one of Europe’s great powerhouses, and it certainly looks the part – the Danube is the living line between Buda and Pest, the spires of the national parliament shimmering in its surface, the neoclassical dome of St Stephen’s Basilica behind. Take in the city’s main sights, including Fisherman’s Bastion, Heroes’ Square and the Great Synagogue, followed by a visit to the Parliament building. This evening, the city is illuminated by a spectacular fireworks display as you cruise the Danube on a floating New Year’s Eve celebration unlike any other.

Day 5 | Budapest | New Year’s Day

After a leisurely morning, your ship leaves Budapest with the remainder of the afternoon spent cruising the Danube.

Day 6 | Bratislava, Slovakia | Culinary Adventure

Bratislava’s Gothic old town is offset by Baroque palaces, imposing castles, communist-era apartment blocks and over-the-top statues. Here, see the castle and the "fairy tale" Blue Church. Then, join a local chef for a hands-on cooking class preparing classic Slovakian dishes. After time to explore Bratislava on your own, attend a private cocktail party and chef’s dinner.

Day 7 | Melk, Austria | Palatial Abbey

Arrive in Melk, where you visit its famed Benedictine abbey. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube, the abbey allures with soaring gilded towers, an elaborately frescoed church and a vast library of medieval manuscripts. This evening, attend a Captain’s gala dinner on board.

Day 8 | Munich, Germany | Brewery Visit

Return to Passau and disembark your boat for a walking tour of the town. Continue to Munich, where you visit a traditional, family-owned brewery for a tasting and lunch. Tonight, join your fellow guests for a farewell dinner.

Day 9 | Depart Munich

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

Cruising the Danube: Festive Christmas Markets

Cruise the Danube River, experiencing nine days of exclusive sightseeing in your private small-group vehicle, escorted by your own Resident Tour Director.

Peruse the finest Christmas markets (Christkindlesmarkts) in southern Germany and Austria, picking out treasures and sipping mulled wine in the intimate company of your small group.

Privately access a World War II art bunker in Nuremberg on an A&K-exclusive experience. Set out on unforgettable excursions designed by A&K, including a private tour of the Hofburg Palace Treasury in Vienna with its glittering jewels.

Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive Vienna, Austria

Arrive in Vienna, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, join your dedicated Resident Tour Director for a welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Vienna - Handcrafted Porcelain

Visit the Belvedere, seeing the stately palace complex, tranquil gardens and its Christmas market. View works by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt. Then, enjoy lunch at a Viennese café before a privately guided tour of the Augarten Porcelain Factory. Transfer to your vessel, with priority embarkation. Settle into your premium cabin or suite with an open-air French or walk-out balcony. Enjoy a welcome cocktail before dinner on board.

Day 3 | Vienna - A City's Christmas Finery

Privately tour Schönbrunn Palace, enjoy a demonstration in strudel making and receive a private waltz lesson. After lunch, walk Vienna's old town with a local guide. Visit the Imperial Treasury at Hofburg Palace and see St. Stephen's Cathedral. Later, peruse the main Christmas market at the Rathausplatz.

Day 4 | Melk - Palatial Abbey

Arrive in Melk, where you visit the Benedictine abbey, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. Originally constructed as a palace, the abbey boasts soaring gilded towers, an elaborately frescoed church and a vast library of medieval manuscripts. Pause for lunch ashore at a local restaurant in the scenic Wachau Valley. Later, enjoy a private pre-dinner cocktail party in the ship's Amadeus Club, hosted by your Resident Tour Director, followed by an exclusive Chef's Highlights dinner.

Day 5 | Passau, Germany - Historic Christkindlesmarkt

Arrive in Passau. Take a guided city walk, visiting the Christkindlesmarkt and St. Stephen's Cathedral for a private tour of its famed organ. Linger over an authentic Bavarian lunch with a glass of wine at a charming restaurant. Then, explore the historic center at leisure.

Day 6 | Regensburg - Walking Tour & Market Visit

Walk through Regensburg and visit one of its oldest breweries for a tasting. Tour St. Emmeram's Palace and stroll its Christmas market. Join the captain for a gala dinner back on board.

Day 7 | Nuremberg - Heart of the Old City

Transfer to Nuremberg and privately visit a World War II art bunker, an A&K exclusive. Then, walk through the old town to view its 900-year-old ramparts, Imperial Castle and Palace of Justice. Explore the Christkindlesmarkt, with time to shop or savor homemade gingerbread.

Day 8 | Munich - Bavarian Capital

Disembark in Nuremberg and drive to Munich, famous for its beer halls and beer gardens. Take a guided walking tour of its old town. Visit the Frauenkirche cathedral and Marienplatz, with its bustling Christmas market.

Day 9 | Depart Munich

Transfer to Munich Airport for your departure.

Cruising the Danube: Christmas in Europe

Celebrate Christmas on the Danube River, experiencing nine days of exclusive sightseeing escorted by your own Resident Tour Director. Visit a Benedictine abbey in the Austrian town of Melk and sample mulled wine at a tasting in Dürnstein.

Bask in the uplifting sounds of an organ concert at the Abbey of St. Florian and stroll the aisles of local Christmas markets (Christkindlesmarkts) on just two of the A&K-exclusive shore excursions featured on this journey. Awake Christmas morning in magical Vienna for a tour of the city bedecked in its Christmas finery.

Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive Munich, Germany

Arrive in Munich, where you are met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, join your Resident Tour Director for a welcome dinner.

Day 2 | Munich - Christmas Crafts

Tour Munich's Old Town and visit the Frauenkirche with your small group. Shop for crafts in the Christmas market. Then, transfer to your riverboat in Passau for priority embarkation. After settling into your premium cabin or suite with an open-air French or walk-out balcony, enjoy a welcome cocktail, followed by dinner.

Amadeus Riva

Day 3 | Salzburg, Austria - Mozart's Home

Join your Resident Tour Director for a full-day excursion to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Stroll the city's historic center, enjoy lunch and explore the Christmas market in Domplatz (Cathedral Square). Also visit the church of Mondsee, and later attend an exclusive Chef's Highlights dinner on board your vessel.

Day 4 | Melk & Dürnstein - Charming Christmas Eve

Disembark by small group to visit the Wachau Valley, with a guided visit to the Benedictine abbey of Melk and a tasting of glühwein (mulled wine) in Dürnstein. A special holiday celebration aboard your ship ends this festive day. Later, you may choose to attend mass in the picturesque village.

Day 5 | Vienna - Enchanted Christmas Morning

Arrive in Vienna this morning to visit Schönbrunn Palace with your small group. Enjoy a strudel-baking demonstration, privately explore the magnificent building with a guide and peruse the palace Christmas Market. After lunch aboard, drive along the Ringstrasse. See the State Opera and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Visit the Imperial Treasury at Hofburg Palace, and stroll through Vienna’s Christmas market. Tonight, mark Christmas with a special A&K-exclusive dinner ashore followed by the Christmas Concert at the Vienna Hofburg.

Day 6 | Bratislava, Slovakia - Historic Old Town

See Bratislava's castle district and Old Town. Visit the Church of St. Elizabeth, known as the Blue Church, and view the historic fortress of the city's Castle District. Enjoy a private cocktail party in the ship's Amadeus Club, hosted by your Resident Tour Director, followed by a gala dinner.

Day 7 | Linz, Austria - Half-Timbered Houses

Explore historic Linz, home of the Linzer torte, and indulge in some samples of the iconic dessert. Then, take a privately guided tour of the Abbey of St. Florian, where you pause for a moving organ concert.

Day 8 | Munich, Germany - Bavarian Panorama

Disembark and drive to Munich, visiting the historic town of Landshut en route. Check in to your hotel, with time to unwind.

Hotel Bayerischer Hof

Day 9 | Depart Munich

Transfer to Munich Airport for your departure.