The collaboration combines McLachlan’s expertise in bringing historical narratives to life with AmaWaterways’ award-winning luxury experience.
The new program features four distinct itineraries designed to immerse travellers in some of history’s most significant moments, from the battlefields of Europe to the ancient civilisations and modern conflicts of Southeast Asia.
“Our river cruises include exclusive battlefield touring excursions and on-board history seminars, access to one of our expert Historians throughout your cruise and full access to AmaWaterways’ exquisite onboard experiences and shore excursions,” said Mr McLachlan.
2027 Cruise Offerings
Anzac Day 2027 River Cruise – Holland and Belgium: This special eight-day voyage offers a new and unique way to commemorate Anzac Day while experiencing the beauty of Holland and Belgium during tulip season.
The itinerary explores regional cultural highlights as well as three pivotal chapters of history: Waterloo, the First World War and Second World War.
The cruise’s highlight includes attending the Anzac Day service at the Menin Gate in Ypres, followed by exploration of First World War trenches, the battle-scarred Hill 60 and a visit to Tyne Cot, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world.
Mat McLachlan 2027 Signature Cruise: Mat McLachlan will host his annual Signature Tour aboard an eight-day round-trip sailing from Amsterdam through Holland and Belgium, exploring three great battles: Waterloo, First World War and the Second World War’s Band of Brothers campaign.
The journey will commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Menin Road near Ypres and the 83rd anniversary of Operation Market Garden – the largest airborne operation in history that ultimately became “a bridge too far.”
D-Day Anniversary Cruise: Taking place over the anniversary of the D-Day landings, guests will sail round-trip from Paris in eight-days, visiting medieval castles and artist villages, before spending the 5th and 6th of June exploring the historic D-Day beaches.
Riches of the Mekong and Vietnam War Cruise: This includes eight-days sailing the Mekong from Cambodia through Vietnam, uncovering the region’s ancient civilisations and modern conflicts.
An optional five-day land extension explores key Vietnam War sites in the south, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Long Tan – the site of Australia’s most famous Vietnam War battle.
The journey culminates with a Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration (August 18) at the Long Tan battlefield and the Long Tan Cross.
https://battlefields.com.au/history-cruises/
