Jeannine Williamson reviews the A-Rosa Flora

Founded in 2000 to cater for its domestic German market, most British travellers – and agents – will not know the A-Rosa name. However, that’s changing as the line is now marketing in the UK and selling selected cruises through Titan Travel.

Sailing on the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube, Rhone and Saone, A-Rosa offers some standout features in the ever-growing river cruise market. These include proper spa facilities, included drinks throughout the day and relaxed, adaptable itineraries. Launched in 2013, A-Rosa Flora is the newest ship in the 11-strong fleet and one of the ‘international’ vessels with a dedicated host for English-speaking passengers.

ACCOMMODATION

All 83 cabins are river-facing, with 26 on the upper deck, 30 on the middle deck and 27 on the lower deck. The 77 standard staterooms measure 156 square feet and have French balconies, with large panoramic windows that open, or fixed windows on the lower deck. There are two junior suites that measure 226 square feet and have French balconies, plus two suites that are 312 square feet and have a walk-out veranda and French balcony. There are two twin-bed cabins and the remainder have fixed double beds.

Cabins are light and brightly decorated. Nice touches include a canopy over the bed and stem vases filled with water waiting in the cabins – all passengers are given a red rose on arrival. Standard cabin amenities include TVs, hair dryer, telephone, safe and air conditioning. Benefits for suite guests include welcome sparkling wine and flowers, fruit basket replenished daily, stocked minibar, robe, slippers, additional toiletries, complimentary laundry and ironing service and reserved tables in the smaller dining area.

PUBLIC AREAS

The ship is imaginatively divided into different areas, rather than the cavernous lounge and dining room set-up on many vessels. This creates more of a cosy, hotel-style feel. Rose-themed colours of pink and green, combined with modern artwork, create a modern vibe. The upper deck panoramic lounge bar, with a small dance floor, has a mix of comfy chairs, window seats, bar stools and tables. The sun deck is a lovely spot, with chairs, tables, loungers and a bar. There is no lift.

 
FOOD AND DRINK

In another break with the norm, virtually all meals are buffet-style with food presented in a well laid out walk-through area separate from the main dining room. This will particularly appeal to clients who prefer informal dining arrangements and less rigidly enforced mealtimes. There is a wide choice of international food and regional specialities, plus plenty of vegetarian and healthy choice options, including A-Rosa’s trademark rye bread which passengers can buy to take home. There are served dinners, usually three a week, themed to a different cuisine. These take place in the intimate, small 36-seat dining room and numbers are limited. International passengers receive one complimentary a la carte dinner and can book others on a chargeable basis. All drinks, with the exception of a small number of premium brands, are included in the fare.

 

SPA AND FITNESS

Flora boasts more facilities than most river vessels, with a stand-alone spa that includes a massage room, sauna, gym, showers, changing room and peaceful relaxation area. There’s a heated pool on the sun deck, large enough to swim around, and a fleet of bicycles used on guided tours and available for passengers to rent at other times.

 

SERVICE

Although there is a special host for English speakers, the friendly and attentive crew members all speak excellent English. Tipping at the end of the cruise is discretionary.

 

SHORE EXCURSIONS

There’s only one included shore excursion per cruise, leaving passengers to decide whether they want to pay to join other group tours. This policy means fares are reasonably priced and the arrangement is ideal for clients who don’t like feeling overly ‘organised’ and prefer to do their own thing. As Flora moors in the heart of towns and cities it’s usually very easy to explore independently.

 

SELL IT

Titan Travel features a selection of A-Rosa itineraries including festive markets on the Danube and Rhine and cruises in Belgium, the Netherlands and southern France. New for 2015, the four-night Enchanting Christmas Markets on the Rhine, departing on December 3 and 11 on A-Rosa Flora, leads in at £729pp based on two sharing, including all meals and drinks throughout the day (excluding Champagne and some premium brands), one shore excursion, comp