Boston, MA and Vancouver, BC, December 2019 – For a record five years in a row, Emerald Waterways has been named “Best Value for Money” in the river cruise category by industry leader Cruise Critic in their annual 2019 Editors’ Picks Awards. The Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards are chosen by the publication’s international team of editors, based on the lines and ships they feel best represent excellence in each category. Emerald Waterways has received an award from Cruise Critic every year since the line launched in 2014 when they won the “Best New River Ships” designation for their innovative Emerald Star and Emerald Sky Star-Ships.
Emerald Waterways’ record-setting five-time win in this category is reflective of the line’s inclusive pricing structure. All fares on Emerald Waterways river ships include complimentary shore excursions in every port, free transfers to and from the airport, prepaid gratuities, all meals, WiFi, port charges, and complimentary beverages (including wine and beer at lunch and dinner) offered at a competitive price point. Value is also illustrated by the river cruise line’s popular EmeraldACTIVE program, which provides guests the option to engage in athletic pursuits such as guided bike tours or invigorating hikes on every itinerary at no extra cost. New for the 2019 season, Emerald Waterways added even more value to their active programming by introducing dedicated Activity Managers on each ship. In addition to supporting all EmeraldACTIVE shore excursions and daily on-board classes, the Activity Manager can also help guests with planning individual cycling tours or athletic walks in port.
Other innovations Emerald Waterways has been lauded for include an indoor pool, which cleverly transforms into a movie theater at night on most ships, and floor-to-ceiling windows in most cabins that drop down halfway with the push of a button to create an open-air balcony.
Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic explains: “This year’s awards clearly show there’s truly a cruise for every type of traveler. From innovative new ships with groundbreaking features, to standout offerings for foodies, families and frugal travelers, there are fantastic options for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these are the lines to sail for an unforgettable experience.”
Part of Scenic Group, Emerald Waterways’ eight branded Star-Ships offer river sailings in Europe and on the Mekong, as well as the MS Rossia along the Volga River in Russia; the MS Swallow and MS Lastavica yachts in Croatia; and the MS Hamees on the Nile.
Additional information can be found by contacting your local travel agent; on Emerald Waterways’ website, www.emeraldwaterways.com in the US or www.emeraldwaterways.ca in Canada; or by calling the consumer/travel agent reservations line at 844-428-8389 in the US or 855-444-0161 in Canada. Brochure orders may be placed on the website, or a digital downloadable version is available.