Exploring Heidelberg and Her Castle

Heidelberg is a city located in southwestern Germany, along the canals of the Neckar River. It was first recognized in 1196. It was the capital city of the Rhenish Palatinate. Later, it became the place of residence of the electorate counts palatine up to 1720.

The city was devastated during the Thirty Years’ War in 1622. It was almost completely wiped out by the French in 1689 and 1693.

Heidelberg is a university town. Its 2016 census revealed that it has a population of 159,914, with roughly a quarter of that figure are students.

It is the fifth-largest city in Baden-Wurttemberg.

The oldest university in Germany and one of Europe’s most reputable universities is in this city, the Heidelberg University, which was founded in 1386. The university played a leading role in the era of humanism and Reformation.

The city’s library is the oldest existing public library in Germany, it was established in 1421. A few months after announcing his Ninety-five Theses, Martin Luther came to Heidelberg to defend them, that was in April of 1518.

During World War II, the city was the stronghold of the Nazi party. Between 1933 and 1945 was known as the Nazi period.

In 1934-1935 the State Labor Service and students at Heidelberg University built the Thingstätte Amphitheater in the northern part of the town. This amphitheater was where Nazi Party events were held. After just a few months, the sprawling Ehrenfiedhof Memorial Cemetery was opened, which completed the last project of the Nazi Party in the city. It was in the southern part of the old town.

German troops left the city on March 29, 1945, after destroying the old bridge, the city’s valued river crossing. Allied forces penetrated the town the next day and the civilian population voluntarily surrendered.

It was said that the city was not targeted by Allied bombing raids because the U.S. Army wanted to use it as a post-war garrison.

The city is known as the scientific hub in Germany as there are some internationally renowned research labs near Heidelberg University, including Max Planck Institutes and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory.

For centuries it has been an art hub, especially literature. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network even awarded it as a “City of Literature”.

The city is a favorite tourist destination because of its popular romantic cityscape, including The Philosopher’s Walk, the old Baroque town, and the Heidelberg Castle.

 

Heidelberg Castle at Sunset

Heidelberg Castle

The Heidelberg Castle

The popular landmark, Heidelberg Castle ruins are among the most important Renaissance buildings located north of the Alps. it was demolished in the 17th and 18th centuries and has only been rebuilt partially. The castle is a towering figure from the Konigstuhl hillside. Visitors can go there via the Heidelberger Bergbahn funicular railway which runs from Kornmarkt all the way to the summit of the Kongistuhl.

The earliest castle structure was built before 1214. A second structure was built in 1294. In 1537, though, a lightning bolt struck and destroyed the upper castle.

The present structures were improved in 1650, unfortunately, wars and fires destroyed these structures. Portions were rebuilt but another lightning bolt struck in 1764.

You can visit Heidelberg and her castle from most Rhine River Cruises.  We offer from 4 – 15 day cruises.  Checkout our website for  cruise itineraries.   Contact us for more information and current promotions:  888-869-7907 or jan@europeanbarging.com

Europeanbarging Offering 10% Discount For All Military Personnel

Europeanbarging, an ARC accredited agency, is offering a Military Discount of 10%, for both active or veterans, on its’ full line of barge and river cruise products.

Their products include: European river cruises, Short European river cruises (4, 5, 6 and 7 days) Luxury European Barge cruises and Casual Bike and Barge cruises.

The river cruise itineraries include the countries of  France, Germany, Italy, Holland, Austria, Hungary, Portugal and Spain.

The luxury barge cruises are offered on the canals of France, Mosel River in Germany, Venice lagoon in Italy, Thames River in England, Scottish Highlands of Scotland and the Shannon River in Ireland.

The casual bike and barge cruises take place in Holland and Belgium, Germany, France and Italy.

“A  river cruise is one of the easiest ways to visit multiple cities throughout Europe, while still enjoying enough downtime to have the relaxed holiday getaway you deserve.  Our spectacular cruise packages are the ideal way to travel in style and beauty.”  Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

AmaWaterways is rated one of the top river cruise lines in the world.  In addition to offering many different itineraries, they have many themed cruise itineraries such as wine, art, food and music.  The rates include 7 night cruise with multi choice excursions, use of bicycles to cycle the area, free Wi-Fi,  all meals including wine with lunch and dinner as well as a one hour happy hour each evening before dinner.  A wide variety of food choices available onboard.  Rates start at $2999 per person in low season, often with discounts up to $750 off.  Military discount would be additional.

AmaLegro docked at night

Europeanbarging offers two different international cruise lines for their short river cruises:

While onboard the German/English cruise line Arosa, you will enjoy a multitude of amenities including all meals, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi and discounts on spa services.  Meals feature food stations offering regional specialties with lots of options.

Rates for your Rhine River Cruise, Danube River Cruise, Douro River Cruise, Rhone River Cruise or Seine River Cruise start as low as $1,429 per person for a 7 night cruise when booked through Europeanbarging.    For singles, there is a low single supplement charged.  Each ship has a few lower deck cabins with 3 beds that will hold 3 persons.  Children 15 and under CRUISE FREE with 1 or 2 adults in the cabin.

For the French/English cruise line Croisi, their rates include all meals, unlimited complimentary onboard beverages, including: beer, fine wine, spirits, mineral bottled water, soft drinks specialty coffees and tea as well as included Wi-Fi.  They offer optional, motorcoach and walking tours as well as active excursions of cycling and hiking.   Several of their ships feature single as well as triple cabins and elevators. A five day Rhine River Cruise starts at $909 per person.

Luxury barges range in price from low $3000’s to over $7000 per person.  There are several barges in the mid to high $4,000’s.  The rates include the 6 night cruise, daily maid service, bicycles on board for cycling, gourmet meals, wine and cheese of the region with lunch and dinner, open bar with alcoholic beverages and all the sightseeing.  Some barges will have a small swimming pool or spa/Jacuzzi.

Barge on Canal du Midi

The prices are based on the features of the barges and food/wines provided. On the lower priced barges, you will be looking at cabins around 90 – 100 sq. ft., compact bathrooms and small shower stall. The wines will be regional wines. The more expensive barges will have larger cabins – 170 – 230 sq. ft. with larger bathrooms, big shower stalls with a glass door. Some of the wines will be premier and grand cru.  Children are not allowed on the barges unless it is a specific children’s week or a family charter.

Many of the casual bike and barge cruises are 7 nights instead of the 6 nights on a regular full service barge.  Prices range from $1940 to $2378 per person.  These barges range from  6, 20, 21, 22, 24 and 34 passengers.

Barge and Bike In Italy

These cruises are typically for serious cyclist as the biking ranges from  20KM – 65KM per day.  Bikes on these barges are typically heavy duty bikes designed for cycling in the  area.  Many bike and barge cruises have electric bikes available at a cost of between $100 – $150 for a week.

Included in the price: 6 or 7 night cruise, guide for the cycling tours , breakfast buffet, including makings for your packed lunch, dinner (3 courses) on boat, water with meals, clean towels and  bed linen delivered half way through the cruise and bike rental (with helmets).  Children are allowed on the bike and barge cruises.

Europeanbarging welcomes all inquiries to help you find the perfect cruise.  888-869-7907

Rhine and Moselle Fairytales River Cruise

Europe’s Rhine River is known as one of the most popular cruising paths. It is referred to as “Old Father Rhine” which offers breathtaking glimpses to castles, villages and vineyards. The spellbinding views bring a sensation of living in a fairytale and anticipating a meeting with the royalties.

Embarking on a fairytale journey of a lifetime begins from Amsterdam, Netherlands to Basel, Switzerland. This river cruise itinerary will be passing through spectacular towns of Cochem, Strasbourg, Bernkastel and Riquewihr. Every town has its own colorful history and tales that will be a delight to know.

Travel in style and comfort with AmaWaterways’ Rhine & Moselle Fairytales cruise package. It is an 11-night Germany River Cruise which provides luxury accommodation, world-class amenities, award-winning dining and a promise of extensive tour in every point of destination.

Mosel River Cruise town of Cochem

With an 11-night cruise, you are able to visit more towns and see more than is usually possible on a 7 night river cruise.

The cruise starts in Amsterdam and there is the option to explore more of Amsterdam with a 2 night pre cruise stay.  Featured sites include a visit to Zaanse Schans, a city tour of Amsterdam, including a canal cruise thru the city.  You will enjoy the sights of Skinny Bridge, the tall and narrow houses along the river banks, and the opportunity to take a glimpse of Anne Frank’s home. In Begijnhof, walk around the city and enjoy the Middle Age Era buildings.

Afterwards, the cruise ship will be embarking outside Amsterdam and take you to the next destination of Cologne.  Here you can enjoy a guided walking tour to visit the UNESCO designated and revered Gothic masterpiece Cologne Cathedral and the Old Town will be the day’s highlight. Enjoy beer tasting in Kölsch. Try Reibekuchen, a potato pancake with apple sauce. You can also join a bike ride tour and see Stadtgarten.

Next stop Lahnstein, with the possibilities of discovering the rich history of Koblenz, located at the junction of the Rhine and Mosel Rivers. A guided day tour will bring you to Clock Tower, Monument of Emperor Wilhelm I and other cultural monuments. You can explore the place with the guided “Two Rivers Bike Tour” or ride a cable car to give you an aerial view of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress or a Castle Lahnstein hike.

Heading onto the Mosel river, you come to the town of Cochem, with half-timbered homes and the Reichsburg Castle.

Continuing along the Mosel river, is Trier, the oldest city of Germany where you can find the ancient Roman Amphitheater, the Basilica of Constantine and the Roman Baths. Unravel the secrets of Porta Nigra Gate. Listen to stories of barbarians and bishops which crossed the famous gate way back 180 A.D.  For more active travelers, there is a Trier bike tour or a hike to point Petrisberg – located above the Roman Amphitheater amidst the vineyards.

Heading back toward the Rhine River, the next stop is the cute town of Berkanstel – enjoy a day filled with wine-tasting activities because Moselle Valley is popular wine-producing region for over 500 years.  Walking, cycling or hiking excursions are available to choose from.

Back on the Rhine River, you come to the famous Loreley and the Rhine Gorge – a UNESCO designated area where breathtaking views of vineyards are located. At Rudesheim, take a gondola ride to Niederwalddenkmal Statue. Taste the town’s famed Rüdesheimer Coffee or explore Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum.  Alternatively, enjoy a Schloss Johannisberg bike tour or a hike through the vineyards.

The next stop of Ludwigshafen has so many options to enjoy in the area – a visit to Romantic Heidelberg Castle,  a visit to one of the largest Baroque palaces – the Mannheim Baroque Palace (closed between March 4, 2019 to January 26, 2020 for remodeling). Mark Twain has written about it in one of his novels. Another option is a visit to the beautiful Schwetzingen Palace Gardens, or a Ladenburg bike tour or Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path hike – located on the northern side of the Neckar River – opposite of Heidelberg Castle.

Continuing along the Rhine toward Basel, a stop at the charming city of Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace. The fairytale-like sights of “La Petite France” will captivate your senses. Other iconic structures are Place de la République, Parc de l’Orangerie and the European Parliament. Being on the border between France and Germany, there is a great combination of architecture that has a beautiful canal meandering thought the old town.  The Strasbourg Cathedral  of Notre Dame, offers it’s famous astronomical clock as well beautiful stained glass windows – the beautiful Rose window and some from the 13th and 14th centuries.  Today it is the sixth-tallest church in the world and the highest surviving structure built entirely in the Middle Ages.

The stop at Breisach has many options for touring.  The Alsatian town of Riquewihr offers the enchanting sight of a medieval hamlet and other well-preserved architecture, looking like it did in the 16th century. Another option is the Black Forest town of Freiburg – home of the most beautiful spire on earth, as well as impressive stained glass windows – the Gothic cathedral known as Freiburg’s Münster.  Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike in the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions.

Last stop – Basel Switzerland.  After breakfast, your Germany River Cruise ends.

If you have the time, AmaWaterways has put together a great little extension in Switzerland featuring the lovely cities – Lucerne, Vitznau and Zurich.  Your excursions include a tour of Basel, followed by a bus transfer through the country between Basel and Lucerne, where your overnight. Excursions include a city tour and also you see the famous Lion Monument; another overnight then a scenic cruise from Lucerne to Vitznau on Lake Lucerne, followed by a transfer to Zurich where you overnight for 2 night and enjoy a tour of this international city.

This cruise itinerary offers only a few departures each year, so call soon to check availability.  Europeanbarging can assist with availability and check for promotions.  888-869-7907   Barge and River Cruise Specialist since 1998.

Interesting Facts Along the Danube River

The mighty Danube River is the longest river in the entire European Union. It runs through or forms a part of the border for 10 countries, originating in Germany’s Black Forest and ending in the Ukraine where it flows into the Black Sea.

The Danube River has an important part in European culture and history, dating back when it was the north boundary of the Roman empire. It’s also home to the great Austrian musician Johann Strauss .

Cathedral in Linz along the Danube River

Those longing for the charm of Old World Europe will experience the very heart of the continent, where kings and queens were crowned and some of the world’s best musicians – such as Mozart and Beethoven,  composed and performed for the courts. Great European capital  cities like Budapest, Vienna, Linz and Bratislava remain an incredible experience, as well as such excursions to the beautiful  Austria’s Lake District and the Czech Republic’s charming mountain town, Ceský Krumlov – both tours offers by AmaWaterways .  From fortresses and grand abbeys perched high above the Danube to iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, be romanced by the Danube with all her regal and romantic splendor.

Visit Regensburg and you can discover the best of both worlds, visiting one of the oldest medieval cities in Germany and the largest medieval town north of the Alps.  Along with nearly 1,500 buildings listed as being of historical interest — find picturesque cobblestone streets and alleys, colorful buildings and cafés –  the oldest working bridge in Germany and perhaps the oldest restaurant in the world,  lively public squares and a vibrant Old Town that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In modern times, it is known for being one of Pope Benedict XVI’s residences; he taught at the university when he was known as Revered Joseph Ratzinger.

Regensburg is sometimes called both “Germany’s medieval miracle” and “the northernmost city of Italy” due to its lively streets and lovely outdoor summer cafés.  Regensburg was the start of the Route of Emperors and Kings in the medieval period and the route continued to Passau, Vienna, Linz before ending in Budapest.   Soak up the atmosphere or admire the rich history.

Known as the “City of Three Rivers” since the mighty Danube River is joined by both the Inn River and the Ilz River, Passau is a historic town who can trace their roots past the 2nd Century BC. First founded by the Celts and then a Roman town for 400 years, the city traded hands a few times.

The picturesque city of Passau is known for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture as well as its promenades, winding lanes and quaint Bavarian shops (expect to fall in love with a cuckoo-clock or two). It is also home to the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which for most of its life housed the world’s largest cathedral organ (that honor now goes to a church in Downtown Los Angeles). Left undamaged during World War II, the Old Town was left as it has been for hundreds of years.

Another excursion offered on several Danube River itineraries is to the beautiful city of Salzburg, Austria.  Besides acting as the birthplace for one of the most famous musicians and composers in history, many may recognize this backdrop from a more recent musical accomplishment. The beautiful, rolling hills and lush, green landscape of this town was employed as the setting for the Tony Award winning musical, and Academy Award winning movie-musical, The Sound of Music. After its initial cinematic release in 1965, The Sound of Music became the highest grossing film of all time, beating out Gone with the Wind, and held the title for five years post-release.

This iconic masterpiece follows the story of the von Trapp family as they struggle with the Nazi takeover of Austria in the late 1930’s. However, many do not realize that the lively and entertaining movie is based on true events, written about in the memoirs of Maria von Trapp, the inspiration for Julie Andrew’s Golden Globe winning performance. The Story of the Trapp Family Singers, an autobiography written by Maria von Trapp, describes the true story of the musically-inclined family, from her original role as tutor for one of the von Trapp children, to the family’s escape to America upon the Nazi annexation of Austria.

AMA Waterways cruises the Danube, with itineraries cruising between Budapest and Regensburg as well as Vilshofen to Budapest.  Discover a wealth of art, history and cultural treasures as you cruise to some of Europe’s most famous destinations. From Budapest, journey to Bratislava, Vienna, Passau and the 2,000-year-old town of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, visit magnificent cathedrals and Baroque abbeys, sample Vienna’s sinfully rich Sacher torte cake, experience the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley winemaking region and traverse Europe’s Continental Divide.

Croisi River Cruise offers 3 – 7 day European River Cruises and is the oldest river cruise line in Europe as well as being family owned.  The cruise line has over 42 vessels cruising the waterways of Europe.  Danube itineraries include a 5 day and 8 day round trip Vienna cruise on the Danube as well as a 6 day cruise between Passau and Budapest.

Prices include the cruise, all meals, beverage package with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and Wi-Fi.  Excursions are additional.

AROSA CRUISE LINE cruises the Danube,  featuring short river cruises with English and German language onboard.  There is no fixed seating or table arrangements on board.  All meals are served as buffet.  There are chefs at all meals with an open kitchen preparing these dishes as you watch – so everything is fresh.
One night a week there is a special sit down wine and culinary special dinner for a small additional fee.

The ships have bicycles with helmets on board for cycling tours.   Arosa is also known for their superior spa facilities onboard.  Arosa offers 4 night, 5 night and 7 night round trip Passau river cruise itineraries.  Arosa also allows children 15 and under to cruise free with their parents in the same cabin.  They limited triple cabins and 1 set of connecting cabins per deck on a few of their ships.

Prices include the cruise, all meals, beverage package with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and Wi-Fi.  Excursions are additional.

For more information on any of the Danube River cruise itineraries or other rivers, please call or email:713 240 6753 or 888 869 7907  jan@europeanbarging.com

Questions and Answers on AmaWaterways European River Cruise

Our questions and answers on AmaWaterways European River Cruises are to provide information on what make AmaWaterways a great River Cruise company for your European River Cruise  We can assist in finding the perfect cruise.  Call us  Europeanbarging.com   – 888-869-7907

 

AmaLegro docked at night

AmaLegro docked at night

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is Internet available onboard?
High-speed Internet service is available free of charge as part of the in-stateroom “Infotainment System.” Additionally, AmaWaterways offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.

What is the dress code?
We recommend country club casual for dinner. Guests typically wear dressier attire for the Captain’s Gala dinner.

Is there an elevator on board?
Elevators are available onboard all vessels reaching the two highest passenger decks, reception area and restaurant. Elevator does nto go down to the lower cabin decks. Staircase from lower deck to 2nd deck is a spiral staircase.

What time is embarkation?
Official embarkation time is 3 p.m. for all ships. This allows the staff to prepare your stateroom and have the ship ready for the next departure. If you arrive earlier, you may check your luggage on board, and then explore the embarkation port city.

What time is disembarkation?
Official disembarkation time is 9 a.m. You may disembark earlier if the ship is moored in the location you are disembarking in, and you may disembark later providing you have vacated your stateroom and checked out before 9 a.m.

What language is spoken on board?
The official language on board is English on all ships. Most crew members speak fluent English. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English. All locals guides are fluent in English.

What are the tipping guidelines?
Gratuities to your Cruise Manager and ship crew are not included in the vacation price. While the amount of these gratuities will depend upon your degree of satisfaction for services received, many of our clients have asked us for general tipping guidelines. Here are our recommendations:

For good service, we recommend 3 Euros per passenger, per day for the Cruise Manager and 12 Euros per passenger, per day for the crew, which will be divided up among the ship’s personnel. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide by leaving a tip of 1-2 Euros per tour. Gratuities on most vessels, but not all, may be charged on credit card as well as cash.

Is smoking allowed on board?
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside any of the ships. Smoking is only permitted on the Sun Deck. For the safety and comfort of all passengers on board, your cooperation in observing the no-smoking policy is greatly appreciated.

What amenities are available in the staterooms?
Each stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer, plush terry bathrobes, slippers and a safe. Your bathroom offers a magnifying mirror and spa-quality toiletries including soaps, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.

Are there phones in the staterooms?
Each stateroom has its own telephone, along with instructions for use. Phones may be used to call from stateroom to stateroom and ship to shore. Since the telephone system functions via GSM, there may be times, depending on location, when service is unavailable. Any charges for calls will be billed to your shipboard account. Please inquire at the reception desk for rates.

Is air conditioning available in the staterooms?
All staterooms in are equipped with individual climate control. If you have any questions regarding your stateroom’s temperature control, please refer to the instructions or check with the reception desk.

Is there a Fitness Center on board?
Each ship has a fitness room with a selection of exercise equipment. Use of the equipment is at the sole risk of the user. Hours of operation vary according to the ship. There is no attendant on duty and therefore, without limitation, AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the fitness room.

What electrical current is on the ship?
Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you.

Is there laundry service on board?
Laundry services are available on board for a fee. Price lists are available in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board.

Are there medical facilities on board?
There are no medical facilities on board. However medical services can easily be called from shore if required.

Are bicycles available?
Each ship has a limited number of bicycles and helmets available for use when the ship is docked. When appropriate, a sign-up sheet is used to request the bicycles. Use of the bicycles is at your own risk. Therefore, without limitation, AmaWaterways and all of its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during their use.

Are all meals included on board?
All meals on board the ships are included in the cruise price. Meals are served in the dining room in a single seating. For dinner, passengers will be seated by a dining room host.

What type of cuisine is served on board?
All meals are skillfully prepared by European chefs and consist of Continental cuisine
made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. Breakfast is buffet-style with selections available from the menu as well. Lunch is also buffet-style with salads, soups and a selection of hot buffet items, hot entrees and desserts. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a choice of delicious entrees, including a vegetarian option.

What is the beverage policy on board?
Coffee and tea are available free of charge throughout the day and during meals. Specialty coffees, such as espresso and café latte are also available free of charge. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at additional cost. During lunch and dinner, local wines soft drinks and beer are available on a complimentary basis. Complimentary bottled water is replenished daily.

Are excursions included?
A sightseeing tour is included in each city or town you visit, along with free time to explore the city according to your own interests. The sightseeing tours can take place on foot, via motor coach, or a combination of the two. Each tour is led by a qualified, licensed English-speaking local guide or your Cruise Manager. In addition to our Gentle and Active Walkers groups noted in our Health and Well-Being section, for some excursions, we have a “Late Starter” option for guests who wish to sleep in but do not want to miss key tour highlights. For those guests interested in exploring Europe from an exciting new perspective, we offer guided bicycle tours in select cities (capacity controlled). In the event of water level problems on certain stretches of the river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach or to alter the daily program as determined by the ship’s Captain.

Are audio sets provided during the tours?
During shore excursions, we provide a sophisticated audio headset system that allows guests to comfortably listen to their tour guide while taking photos or admiring some of Europe’s hidden gems.

Is there a beauty salon on board?
Various beauty and hair treatments as well as massages are available on board. Please inquire at the reception desk for a list of services and to schedule an appointment.

Is there a gift shop on board?
The ship has an onboard gift shop that sells accessories, souvenirs, gifts, and a limited selection of personal and toiletry items. Opening hours vary according to itinerary.

Is there a pool on board?
All ships are equipped with a whirlpool or heated swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. Saunas are available on select ships. There is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is at the sole risk of the user. AMAWATERWAYS and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the whirlpool, pool or sauna.
Please note there is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is solely at your own risk.

What is the minimum age to travel with AmaWaterways?
All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a cabin with an adult, and must remain supervised at all times, and their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). Children between the ages of 4 – 10 at the time of embarkation may share a cabin with 2 adults provided the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony cabins of any kind may be unsafe for small children if left unsupervised. Children 4-7 years old are not recommended on any program and on our Africa program, due to safety precautions, there is a minimum age limit of 12 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities. Please let us know if you need anything else.