Get all your information on Olivia's Switzerland to Amsterdam Riverboat Cruise.
About Our Destination
Being Gay in Europe
Being LGBTQ+ is widely accepted in all of the countries we visit.
Climate
In spring, the weather in this part of Europe has ranged from a chilly and rainy 55ÂşF to a sunny, warm 80ÂşF. Plan to dress in layers and prepare for anything. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.
Currency
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc. France, Germany, and Holland use the Euro. Check www.xe.com for current rates.
Languages
The languages most commonly spoken in the countries weâll visit are Dutch, German (and the Swiss German dialect), and French, but most people also speak English!
Activity Level
Activity Level
This trip requires some mobility without the use of a wheelchair or scooter, as most tours are walking tours for up to 3 hours, which may include walking on cobblestone streets and stairs. A âGentle Walkersâ group is offered on most included walking tours, which accommodates those needing a little extra time and sometimes offers a shortened version of a tour, designed to encounter as few stairs as possible. If you are bringing a portable wheelchair or collapsible travel scooter, you must be able to collapse it and store it in your cabin. It cannot be used to get around the ship, only while off the ship on tours that are wheelchair/scooter accessible. On tours, the usefulness of a portable wheelchair or scooter may be limited because we will be navigating cobblestone streets with hard curbs (no curb ramps) and stairs.
If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.
Gentle Walkers
Whenever possible, we will create a Gentle Walkers group on each included tour for any guests who need a little extra time walkingâperhaps guests with scooters or canes or photographers who like to stop frequently to take photos. For those with mobility issues, we suggest purchasing a cane that can also fold out to be a seat so you can rest while the group stops to listen to the guide. There are many different styles to choose from online on sites such as amazon.com. Please note that on the optional tours, we are not able to offer a Gentle Walkers group. If you are unsure of your ability to take a specific tour, please discuss your concerns with the cruise director on board.
If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.
Before Your Trip
Cancellation Policy
Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions.
Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.
Community: Joining the Online Trip Group
If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join Oliviaâs official 2025 Switzerland to Amsterdam Riverboat Cruise group on Facebook.
Olivia Honeymoons and Celebrations Registration
Register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.
Special Occasions
If you will celebrate a birthday or any other special event during the week of your trip that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.
Specific NeedsâMedical, Mobility, Dietary, and Others
If you have medical, mobility, or dietary requirements that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.
Travel Insurance
Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page olivia.com/travel-insurance for more information.
For a travel insurance quote, more information, or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a travel consultant.
Passport and Visa
If you are a US citizen, you will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip.
If you are not a US citizen, you will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip and you should check with both your countryâs consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to determine whether you need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
IMPORTANT
Vacation Stretchers
We are offering optional pre-trip Vacation Stretchers in ZĂźrich. Information on these 1-, 2-, and 3-night Vacation Stretchers will be available 11-months prior to the trip. In ZĂźrich, youâll venture out through the beautiful countryside to visit a cheese factory for lunch to try local specialties and can make your own delicious Swiss chocolate bar at a Swiss chocolate factory (tastings included)! Youâll travel to Mt. Titlis and take a tram up to the top for a beautiful 360° view of the Alps. We encourage all passengers to extend their trip with our pre-trip Vacation Stretchers to enjoy all that ZĂźrich have to offer, as well as to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Vacation stretchers will not be offered in Amsterdam, but we encourage you to extend your stay to further enjoy this LGBTQ+ friendly city. Recommended hotels: Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station (excellent location), Pulitzer Amsterdam (a more quiet, upscale hotel on the canal, voted "Best Hotel" by readers of Travel & Leisure), or choose from other boutique hotels. Book early and directly through the hotels for best pricing!
Vaccinations
Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Preventionâs website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on âTravelerâs Healthâ followed by âVaccinations.â
2025 SWITZERLAND TO AMSTERDAM RIVERBOAT CRUISE |
START DATE | END DATE | FEE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cancellation 365 days or more prior to trip date | 4/13/2024 | 50% of trip cost | |
| Cancellation 0-364 days prior to trip date | 4/14/2024 | 4/12/2025 | 100% of trip cost (no refund) |
The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) sometime in mid-2025. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.
Starting mid-2025, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries. While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications HERE once the ETIAS site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 7 Euros. .It is free for people over the age of 70. These ETIAS are good for up to 3 years with unlimited entries.
Travel & Arrival
Air Travel
Airports
You will need to fly into ZĂźrich Airport (ZRH) and out of Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS). We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Discounts
Save up to 15% on your airfare through our partner airlines. Please visit our airfare discount page for the most up-to-date information.
Flight arrival and departure times
ARRIVAL: Your flight into ZĂźrich Airport (ZRH) should arrive by 10 am on April 12, 2025 to be eligible for the included group transfer from the airport to the ship in Basel. If your flight arrives after 10 am, you may need to arrange for your own taxi transfer to the ship, which can cost over 200 Euros.
DEPARTURE: Your flight home can depart Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS) at any time on April 19, 2025, as the ship will overnight in Amsterdam on April 18, 2025.
Luggage Allowances
The included group transfer from the ZĂźrich Airport to the ship limits luggage to one piece per person, plus a carry-on. Airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For ease of travel in Europe, we recommend bringing no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on.
Ship Embarkation
Check-in
Official check-in will be available in the afternoon. If arriving to the ship on your own, you can board the ship, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Basel or choose an optional afternoon city tour. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.
Port location and Transfer to the Ship
The ship will be docked in Basel at a location approximately 60-90 minutes from ZĂźrich International Airport (ZUR). Exact location will be shared in your final trip documents which will be sent 2-3 weeks prior to departure. An included group transfer will be leaving from ZĂźrich Airport Radison-Blu Hotel between 11-11:30 am on April 12. The hotel is just a short 5-minute walk from the airport. The exact departure time will be confirmed in final documents. Note that if you miss this transfer, a taxi may cost over 200 Euros.
During your trip
Accommodations
Your ship
Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Vista features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Enjoy beautiful vistas while cruising your way on the Avalon Vista!
Dining
Fine dining on the Avalon Vista features European cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, and dinner is offered as sit-down menu service with open seating.
Electricity
The cabins have 110- and 220-volt electricity. Adapters should have 2 round prongs (type C). One USB outlet is also available.
Entertainment & Programming
We will bring two Olivia entertainers to perform on several evenings, as well as enjoy some of local entertainment along the way.
River cruising is all about port destinations. Donât expect the same ship-activity packed schedule you might find on a big ship or resort! On a typical day, following breakfast we will enjoy a walking tour of the new city we have arrived in, followed by lunch on board and either an optional extra walking (or other) tour or free time to explore. Perhaps youâll enjoy a fun and informative lecture on the history of the area or take that well-deserved nap. Itâs your vacation! In the evenings, we will be delighted by local entertainers or one of our two Olivia artists. After the shows, enjoy our riverboat version of âClub O,â with our talented staff taking turns being a âguest DJâ to provide dancing music in the main lounge. Or you may choose to get to bed early for your next full day!
Excursions
A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours, ranging in price from approximately âŹ39 to âŹ79, may be booked on board on the Avalon website about 30 days prior to the trip or onboard and will not conflict with the included tours.
Gratuities
Gratuities are provided to your Avalon cruise director, cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maĂŽtre dâ, reception, bar staff and other-behind-the-scenes crew members and are included in the cost of the cruise.
Tipping is also included for the local guides and bus drivers on included tours and optional tours. Should you receive exceptional service and wish to tip more, this is completely at your discretion.
Internet, Email, and Fax
Complimentary wifi is included on board in public spaces and in your cabin for use on your personal digital devices (phone, laptop, or tablet computer). There is an onboard internet center with two desktop computers for guest use. Faxes can be sent from the reception desk for a charge.
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Laundry and pressing services are available; prices will be available onboard the ship. Dry-cleaning and self-service laundry facilities are not available.
Medical Services
The ship will be minutes away from hospitals when we are docked and will be close to local towns when we are cruising along the river. The ship does not have an onboard doctor.
Money: On-Board Purchases
The currency used on board is Euros (âŹ). All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you will create when you first check in. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Please check with the shipâs front office for further details.
Phone
Each cabin has a phone for calling other cabins and for making international and local calls. There is an additional fee to use this phone for international or local calls; cost is available on board. We suggest that you check with your cell phone provider for international service.
Smoking policy
The interior of the Avalon Vista is entirely nonsmoking. Smoking is not permitted in your cabins or on your cabinâs Open-AirSM balcony. A smoking area will be designated on an outdoor deck.
Solos
Guests traveling independently can look forward to Solos programs led by our Solos coordinator, who will ensure you have a great time.
After Your Trip
Transfers to the airport
We estimate a rideshare or taxi from the ship in Amsterdam to the Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport (AMS) will cost approximately 60-75 Euros, depending on traffic. The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time. Payment for the taxi can be made with the driver.
Vacation Stretchers
Post-cruise Vacation Stretchers will not be offered in Amsterdam, but we encourage you to extend your stay to further enjoy this LGBTQ+ friendly city. Recommended hotels: Doubletree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station (excellent location), Pulitzer Amsterdam (a more quiet, upscale hotel on the canal, voted "Best Hotel" by readers of Travel & Leisure), or choose from other boutique hotels. Book early and directly through the hotels for best pricing!
This trip requires some mobility without the use of a wheelchair or scooter, as most of the tours are walking tours for up to 3 hours, which may include walking on cobblestone streets and stairs. A âGentle Walkersâ group is offered on most included walking tours, which accommodates those needing a little extra time and sometimes offers a shortened version of a tour, designed to encounter as few stairs as possible.
If you are bringing a portable wheelchair or collapsible travel scooter, you must be able to collapse it and store it in your cabin. It cannot be used to get around the ship, only while off the ship on tours that are wheelchair/scooter accessible. On tours, the usefulness of a portable wheelchair or scooter may be limited because we will be navigating cobblestone streets with hard curbs (no curb cutouts) and stairs.
If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.
Our Travel Consultants can be reached at USA or Canada: 800.631.6277 or International 415.962.5700, option 1.
