Braun to Host AmaWaterways Holiday Cruise

Rick Braun

(PRESS RELEASE)_CALABASAS, CA – (March 20, 2019) – AmaWaterways today announced a special holiday cruise hosted by Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year, world renowned trumpeter and record producer Rick Braun. On this one-of-a-kind Magical Christmas Markets cruise on board AmaSonata, Braun will enchant guests with holiday favorites, standards, and some of his award-winning jazz hits during four evening performances as they travel from Vienna to Nuremberg and visit Central Europe’s unforgettable Christmas Markets.

“The holidays are the most beautiful time of the year to visit Europe, with Christmas Markets, festive decorations, regional delicacies and memorable moments on board our ships and at every port of call,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “AmaSonata is the perfect venue to complement Rick Braun’s talent as a vocalist and master of the trumpet and flugelhorn. We’re thrilled to treat guests to a special melodic sailing through Europe’s festive Christmas Markets this holiday season!”

The special, seven-night cruise departing December 13, 2019 will whisk guests away to experience the timeless traditions of Europe’s Christmas markets with rhythm and blues as a special, festive backdrop. With colorful market stalls offering whimsical handicrafts, a cup of hot mulled wine in hand and twinkling lights overhead, AmaWaterways’ Magical Christmas Markets cruise will transport travelers to the heart of the holiday with the beauty and romance of Europe as an idyllic setting. On board, guests relax surrounded by festive décor, warm holiday atmosphere and award-winning cuisine that AmaWaterways is known for.

Nearly 20 years into his solo career with just as many No. 1 Smooth Jazz hits under his belt, Los Angeles-based Braun is renowned for his technical expertise and compositional prowess. His recordings reflect his versatility with instrumental recordings such as “Can You Feel It” and his latest CD “Around the Horn.” He showed his vocal talents in “Rick Braun Sings with Strings” and got into the swing of the holiday season with his first-ever Christmas album, “Swingin’ in the Snow.” Currently, Braun is working on a new solo recording which guests may hear a sneak peek of, during their unforgettable river cruise.

“Music moves people and can evoke a sense of joy, much like a river cruise vacation,” said Braun. “It’s always a pleasure to play music for other people, and I look forward to doing what I love and sharing the experience with my fellow AmaWaterways guests!”

The 162-passenger AmaSonata (pictured right) features spacious staterooms and suites with AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies offering a breathtaking view of the ever-changing scenery. Additional onboard amenities include a heated pool with a swim-up bar, a walking track, a fitness room, on board massage and salon services, and wellness classes like stretching, core strengthening and resistance band sessions lead by a dedicated Wellness Host.

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