Which River Cruises did Jane McDonald take?

Jane McDonald is known for her love of cruising and her enthusiasm is infectious.

“I just have a passion for cruising. I love it, absolutely love it.” Cruising with Jane McDonald Channel 5.

It took many years for Jane to discover river cruising and when she did – she loved it. She enjoys every aspect of the experience including the beautiful scenery and view from her balcony, the delicious cuisine, and the chance to explore cities, towns and villages along the way. She enjoys the company of her fellow travellers and enjoys sharing her experiences.

“It’s for people who are keen to see more of the cities: you get a lot longer in them than on an ocean cruise stopover, and of course you can get straight into the city centre. The ship is more like a floating hotel.” https://www.radiotimes.com/travel/jane-mcdonald-why-i-love-river-cruising/

Jane’s top tip:

“Comfortable shoes are the best thing I can recommend to anyone going on a river cruise. Don’t be like me and pack high heels – I had to go and buy some flats!” https://www.radiotimes.com/travel/jane-mcdonald-why-i-love-river-cruising/

Jane enjoyed several river cruises, and the details are below, making it easier to find them on Channel 5 or YouTube.

The Danube

Jane’s first river cruise (Season 1, Episode 3, aired on February 24, 2017, on Channel 5) was on the Danube. She’s delighted with the luxurious Uniworld’s S.S. Maria Theresa. Jane explores the river’s charm, visiting the Széchenyi Baths in Budapest and meeting a princess in Vienna.

The Rhône

The adventure continues as Jane travels on the Rhône River in Season 2, Episode 3 (aired on September 15, 2017, on Channel 5). Her ship is the stunning Avalon Poetry ll. From Lyon’s celebrated food market, Marche Paul Bocuse, to a hot-air balloon ride over the beautiful French countryside, Jane’s journey is a tapestry of new experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

The Mekong

In Season 3, Episode 3 (aired on February 23, 2018, on Channel 5), Jane commences her Mekong River exploration in Ho Chi Minh City, delving into the vibrant sights, sounds, and cuisine of Vietnam. The voyage takes her to Cambodia, where she visits a floating market before concluding at the ancient Ankor Wat. She’s onboard the beautiful AmaWaterways AmaDara.

The Mississippi

The exploration extends to New Orleans in Season 3, Episode 4 (aired on March 2, 2018, on Channel 5), where Jane immerses herself in the city’s atmosphere before embarking on the world’s largest steamboat, the American Queen, along the Mississippi. From piano bars to former plantations, the journey unfolds with a mix of entertainment and historical insights.

The Douro

 

Season 5 takes Jane to Portugal (Episode 2, aired on April 19, 2019, on Channel 5), where she starts her adventure in Porto and cruises down the river Douro, exploring Lamego, Vila Real, and the Spanish city of Salamanca. Her ship is the contemporary and luxurious Emerald Radiance.

The Ganges

Continuing the exploration in Season 5, Episode 3 (aired on April 26, 2019, on Channel 5), Jane delves into the vibrant city of Kolkata in India, experiencing traditional wrestling and sailing on the sacred Ganges onboard Ganges Voyager II. The journey unfolds with visits to historic cities and a deep immersion into local culture.

The Indian adventure concludes in Season 5, Episode 4 (aired on May 3, 2019, on Channel 5), with Jane’s cruise on the Ganges reaching its zenith at the sacred city of Mayapur. Post-cruise, she explores the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, Agra, and culminates her memorable journey with a visit to the iconic Taj Mahal.

The Lower Danube

Season 6, Episode 3 (aired on December 13, 2019, on Channel 5) sees Jane embarking APT’s AmaVerde on an exploration of the Balkans, starting in Budapest and navigating through post-communist cities like Bratislava and Belgrade, eventually concluding her journey at Romania’s renowned Bran Castle.

Christmas Markets

 

The festive spirit takes centre stage in the Christmas Special (aired on December 23, 2017, on Channel 5), where Jane celebrates Christmas aboard the five-star Uniworld SS Antoinette while cruising the Rhine. The episode captures the magic of European festive markets, unique customs, and a musical performance, concluding in Switzerland.

In the 2020 Special (aired on December 18, 2020, on Channel 5), Jane revisits two festive cruises with unseen footage. Starting on the SS Antoinette and then aboard the Coastal Express in Norway, she indulges in Europe’s best Christmas markets, unique traditions, and encounters a swimming Santa at Scandinavia’s biggest natural aquarium.

Jane McDonald: Cruising Europe’s Greatest Rivers

A compilation of highlights also aired on Channel 5 in 2020 featuring Jane’s greatest trips on inland waterways: Jane McDonald: Cruising Europe’s Greatest Rivers.

If you are inspired to follow in Jane’s footsteps, I can find the perfect option.

Please complete the enquiry form or email: jenny.cookman@travelcounsellors.com