River Cruising Masterclass

Host Sydney interviews Elise from Uniworld about what makes the line unique: luxury all‑inclusive service, intimate boutique ships filled with art and antiques, and inclusive extras like excursions, drinks, Wi‑Fi, and tipping. They discuss popular itineraries—from European rivers like the Danube and Rhine to exotic voyages in Egypt, India, and the Amazon—and Uniworld’s focus on personalized servic...

Summary This podcast discusses the upcoming changes to river cruise itineraries in Amsterdam due to over tourism and new regulations set to take effect in 2027. The host, Sydney, explains how these changes will impact travelers, including reduced cruise traffic, new docking locations, and the overall experience of visiting Amsterdam. The conversation also touches on broader trends in European port...

Part 4 of our river cruising series dives into Avalon Waterways: a modern, boutique-style line famous for its panoramic suites (beds facing wall-to-wall windows), roomy staterooms, and intimate ships built in the 2010s. Key features include flexible dining, three daily excursion choices (classic, active, discovery), an onboard adventure host for wellness and activities, included meals with wine/be...

Discover the top 15 must-know facts about American Cruise Lines in this comprehensive guide! From uncovering what makes this all-American cruise line unique to exploring its personalized service, spacious accommodations, and rich cultural experiences, this video has everything you need to learn about their exceptional offerings. Join me in Cruise Better: Tips for River, Small Ship, & Expeditio...

Discover the charm of Amadeus River Cruises: The Boutique Experience 🎻! In this episode of our river cruising master class, we explore why this European family-owned cruise line is a hidden gem. Known for its old-world charm, modern European design, and pricing flexibility, Amadeus offers a tailored experience that seasoned and independent travelers love. From elegant drop-down panoramic windows...

Ready to explore the ultimate guide to river cruising? 🚢 "AmaWaterways: The Perfect River Cruise Guide" is your go-to resource for discovering one of the most innovative and luxurious river cruise lines in the world. From their signature twin balcony staterooms to guided bike tours through vineyards and castles, AmaWaterways blends quiet luxury with adventurous experiences. Learn about their exce...

Are you ready to discover the BEST river cruise for YOU? Join Sydney Schellinger, owner of Poodle Booked Travel Agency and an expert with 55 cruises under her belt, as she kicks off an exciting new series diving into the world of river cruising! In this episode, Sydney gives an overview of what makes river cruising unique—think floating hotels, charming villages, fewer crowds, and immersive experi...

Discover luxury cruises you can actually afford with Emerald Yachts! 🚢✨ Experience the ultimate in affordable luxury as you sail through breathtaking destinations like The Caribbean and The Mediterranean. With just 100 guests onboard sleek superyachts, you'll enjoy an intimate, personalized experience featuring all-inclusive perks like gourmet dining, premium drinks, active shore excursions, and...

Join us as we conclude our Rhine River mini-series with a deep dive into spending a perfect three days in Switzerland after your cruise. Discover the charm of Basel, the beauty of Lucerne, and the majesty of Zermatt. We'll guide you through picturesque towns, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems, providing tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit. Whether you're visi...

Join us on an enriching journey through the Southern Rhine, where we explore the transition from the picturesque vineyards and dramatic cliffs of Rudesheim to the alpine foothills leading to Basel, Switzerland. This episode delves into the cultural fusion of French and German influences in the region, offering listeners an insight into the immersive food and wine experiences, from savoring the fam...

In this episode of the River Cruising Masterclass, join us for an exclusive interview with the host's mother, who recently embarked on her first river cruise. The conversation delves into her experiences transitioning from large ocean liners to the intimate and scenic realm of river cruising. Discover how river cruises offer a unique perspective, bringing travelers closer to the picturesque landsc...

Join us on a fascinating journey through the mystical Rhine River as we delve into its compelling legends and stories. This episode explores the towering Lorelei Rock and its siren, the resilient Rheinfeld Castle with its storied past, and more intriguing lore about the Rhine's historical landmarks. Learn about the dramatic tales of Robber Knights at Rikestein Castle and the poetic grandeur of the...

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Rhine Gorge with our "Top 40 Rhine Castles You Must See! 🏰" guide. From medieval fortresses clinging to cliffs to romantic 19th-century restorations, explore the fascinating history and legends behind these iconic castles. Discover highlights like Marksburg Castle, Rheinfels Castle, and the photogenic Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, each with its own unique...

In this episode of the River Cruising Masterclass, we delve into part three of our Rhine River series, focusing on the enchanting Northern Rhine Gems. Discover the rich histories and cultural highlights of Amsterdam, Cologne, and Kinderdijk, along with other hidden treasures in the Netherlands and Western Germany. Learn about the unique itineraries offered by different river cruise companies, ensu...

Join Sydney Skellinger from 'The Poodle Book it” as she delves into the captivating world of river cruising. This episode uncovers why many, including herself, have transitioned from mainstream cruising to the more intimate and culturally enriching experience of river cruises. Sydney shares personal anecdotes, expert tips, and stories of guiding her clients towards the perfect river cruise that ma...

Welcome to the second installment of the Rhine River Mini Series, where your host, Sydney Skellinger, dives into the wonders of the Rhine River. This episode uncovers the fascinating history of this storied waterway, from its beginnings as a Roman frontier to its current status as one of Europe's most beloved cruising destinations. Set sail on the Rhine River and uncover a world of fairy tale cast...

Welcome to another episode of the River Cruise Masterclass with your host, Sydney Schellinger. In this fascinating installment, we embark on a journey through Amsterdam over the course of three delightful days. Sydney provides insightful tips for those considering a Rhine River cruise, emphasizing the value of adding extra time in Amsterdam for a richer experience. Discover the charm of this vibra...

Welcome to the River Cruising Masterclass podcast. In this bonus episode, we dive deep into the world of travel insurance, an essential yet often overlooked aspect of travel planning. We'll explore why every traveler, regardless of age or destination, should consider securing travel insurance. Hear real-life stories of how travel insurance can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations, and gain insi...

Welcome to the River Cruising Masterclass, a podcast and vibrant Facebook community dedicated to exploring the wonders of river cruising. In this episode, Sydney highlights the joys and benefits of solo river travel. Hear all about her own experiences navigating the scenic waterways, delighting in Christmas markets, and forming unexpected friendships on board. Learn why river cruises are an ideal...

Ready to find out which river cruise line is the better fit for your Danube adventure? 🚢✨ In this podcast highlight, I put AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises head-to-head—covering everything from onboard comfort and dining to excursions and hidden perks. Here’s what you’ll discover: ✅ How the onboard experience stacks up—think amenities, room sizes, and little luxuries ✅ Food & drink fa...

Join host Sydney Schellinger as she embarks on a magical river cruise aboard the Ama Viola, exploring the heartwarming charm of the Danube during the festive season. In this captivating episode, Sydney chats with Pete, an experienced AmaWaterways cruise manager, unraveling the secrets and rewarding experiences of life aboard a river cruise. Pete shares his journey from being a guide in Austria to...

In this episode, join us as we dive into the world of Viking River Cruises with special guest Mary Trotter from Viking. Discover what makes Viking a standout choice for river cruising enthusiasts, from its adults-only policy to its focus on English-speaking travelers. Learn about Viking's fascinating history and how it has grown to become a leader in river cruising with 80 ships sailing European r...

Join us for an exciting episode featuring Mary from Viking Cruises as we embark on a journey down the Lower Mississippi aboard the Viking Mississippi. Mary shares her recent experiences and highlights from this unique cruise, offering insights into the ship's design and accessibility features. Discover how Viking stands out with its sleek, Nordic-inspired design, contrasting with the traditional A...

Join Sydney and Brian from AmaWaterways as they dive into the fascinating world of river cruising with AmaWaterways. With 31 ships navigating rivers worldwide, AmaWaterways offers a unique experience that combines luxury with a welcoming atmosphere. Discover the story of Rudy Schreiner, the "godfather of North American river cruising," and the passion that drives the AmaWaterways team. Brian share...

Join Sydney Schellinger, owner and travel advisor at The Poodle Booked It, as she delves into the captivating world of U.S. river cruises. This month, her Facebook group, "Sail the Rivers: Tips and Destinations," focuses on the lesser-known treasures of U.S. river cruising. In this episode, Sydney highlights a fascinating journey along the upper Mississippi River, from St. Louis to St. Paul, shari...