Sail Through Burgundy with MARTINELLI WINERY
Join the Martinelli family for an unforgettable voyage through the heart of Burgundy, where world-class wines meet timeless French charm. From Dijon to Lyon, we’ll drift along the Saône River, pausing in enchanting towns like Tournus and Mâcon—each brimming with medieval abbeys, cobblestone lanes, and vineyard-covered hillsides.
Onboard, the spirit of Martinelli Winery comes alive. Savor intimate tastings of our treasured vintages, enjoy stories of our family’s winemaking heritage, and indulge in a wine-paired dinner crafted to celebrate Burgundy’s legendary gastronomy.
Your gracious hosts—Lee Martinelli Jr. and his wife Pam, alongside Estate Director Tessa Martinelli Gorsuch and her husband Jesse—will be by your side, raising a glass to friendship, discovery, and the beauty of Burgundy.
With AmaWaterways’ luxurious river ship as your floating home, every moment—whether exploring centuries-old villages or unwinding with a glass in hand—will be steeped in elegance and delight.
We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.
Your Hosts:
Lee Martinelli Jr., Owner / Farmer &
Tessa Gorsuch, Estate Director
Lee Martinelli Jr., a fourth-generation farmer, was born in Sonoma County in 1964. At the age of eleven Lee was driving a tractor and running an apple crew in the family orchards. Throughout the years he worked with his father, learning the art of viticulture. In 1989 he ventured out on his own and leased 17 acres of Chardonnay vineyards on the Sonoma Coast (prime wild pig hunting ground) from his maternal grandfather, George Charles. In the years following Lee acquired and developed two vineyards of his own in the Russian River Valley. Lee has received the Outstanding Young Farmer of the Year Award in Sonoma County, served on the Board at the Russian River Winegrowers Association and is very active in the agricultural community in our county.
These days, Lee works closely with the family running the vineyards and winery, as well as farming his own vineyards, and managing others with the help of his wife Pamela. When he is not working Lee enjoys mountain biking, jeepin’, snow skiing, hunting, camping, and water sports at Lake Pillsbury with his family and friends.
Tessa is a fifth-generation Martinelli and grew up on the family’s Bondi Home Ranch vineyard in Sebastopol. Growing up with both sides of her family in the wine business, she had a passion for the industry from a young age and knew that is what she wanted to study. She received a BS in Wine and Viticulture and a minor in Agribusiness from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, and while there, she studied abroad at Switzerland’s Engineering School of Enology at Changins (EIC) in Lausanne.
Upon graduation she worked as a cellar harvest intern making wine at a small winery in Healdsburg. Since then, Tessa has worked for wineries in both Dry Creek Valley and Sonoma Valley, growing her experience in business, marketing, wine club management, tasting room management, events, hospitality and more.
In January 2020 she joined the family business and is thrilled to be back to her roots working in Russian River Valley as the Estate Director of Martinelli Winery and Vineyards, helping to oversee the family business.
Tessa lives in Sebastopol, CA with her husband and two young children.
THIS ISN'T JUST A TRIP!
Embark on a memorable 7-night cruise through Burgundy aboard the luxurious AmaCello, from Lyon to Dijon. Enjoy world-class wines and cuisine, guided tastings by Martinelli, and explore riverside towns like Seurre. Sail the picturesque Saône River, discovering rolling vineyards and châteaux, with daily excursions to cellar tours and cultural sites.
AmaCello
7 NIGHTS
Day 1 - DIJON, FRANCE - EMBARKATION
Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Flavors of Burgundy cruise. (B,D)
**Please be advised the ship will be docked in Saint-Jean-de-Losne and is located approximately 30 minutes’ walk from the train station. Purchasing one of our transfer options between Dijon and Saint-Jean-de-Losne is strongly recommended for guests embarking on our 7-night cruise without a pre-cruise land package.
Day 2 - PORT OF DIJON – SEURRE
Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, visit the stunning Château d’Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d’Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. Or embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river’s access to the Rhône-Rhine Canal. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - SEURRE – CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE
Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Guests interested in wine making can learn more about cooperage, or the art of making wine barrels, in this interactive workshop that guides you through the process of crafting barrels through traditional methods. You may also join a guided tour through Seurre, unraveling its rich tapestry of heritage and charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing by the picturesque city of Chalon-Sur-Saône. Alternatively, sample the highly esteemed vintages from the Côtes de Nuits region on a guided wine tasting, surrounded by the oaken casks and intricately tiled roofs that bring this sommelier’s fantasy to life. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE – TOURNUS
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past, which you will discover on your historic city tour. You may also choose to explore the city on a guided bike tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region’s famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Chalon-sur-Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - TOURNUS – MÂCON
Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Mâcon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - MÂCON
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey, and the nearby castle Berze-le-Chatel, a well-preserved fortress perched on a rocky hill offering stunning views below. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Active guests can join a guided bike tour through the city. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - LYON
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting with a tasting of Beaujolais wines at a traditional winery. In the afternoon, you may join a tour of Lyon that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - LYON, FRANCE – DISEMBARKATION
Bid farewell to Lyon and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
ALL INCLUDED
LUXURY
AmaCello offers an intimate, uncrowded way to experience Europe’s rivers, carrying fewer guests for a more personal atmosphere. Many staterooms feature French balconies — floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to fresh air and views — and the ship’s dining program is recognized by La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs for its culinary excellence. Guests also enjoy thoughtful touches such as a Sun Deck whirlpool, cozy lounges, and wellness amenities including a fitness room, sauna, and massage services.
YOUR CRUISE
INCLUDES:
7 Nights on AmaWaterways' AmaCello longship
All onboard dining with regionally inspired cuisine
Special tastings and dinner with Margerum wine pairings
Special Welcome, Captain's and Gala Dinners
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
Choice of Immersive tours with multiple activity levels
Whirlpool, walking track, fitness room and salon services
Unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with meals
Unlimited sparkling wine and juice at breakfast
Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary beverages
The Chef's Table specialty restaurant
Daily tapas, snacks and refreshments in Main Lounge
Wellness activities and fitness classes
Whirlpool, walking track, fitness room & salon services
AmaCELLO ACCOMMODATIONS
Category S
Suite 255 sq. ft - Violin Deck French Balcony
Stateroom features deluxe bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet, spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showers, and in-room temperature control. Amenities include a flat-screen TV with complimentary Entertainment on Demand, free internet and Wi-Fi, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, phone, desk and daily replenished bottled water.
$8,478 per person Double Occupancy
Category A
Cat A 170 sq. ft - Violin Deck French Balcony
Stateroom features deluxe bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet, spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showers, and in-room temperature control. Amenities include a flat-screen TV with complimentary Entertainment on Demand, free internet and Wi-Fi, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, phone, desk and daily replenished bottled water.
$6,698 per person Double Occupancy
$13,396 per person Single Occupancy
Category B
Cat B 170 sq. ft - Violin & Cello Deck French Balcony
Stateroom features deluxe bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet, spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showers, and in-room temperature control. Amenities include a flat-screen TV with complimentary Entertainment on Demand, free internet and Wi-Fi, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, phone, desk and daily replenished bottled water.
$6,598 per person Double Occupancy
$13,196 per person Single Occupancy
Category C
Cat C 170 sq. ft - Cello & Violin Deck French Balcony
Enjoy Egyptian linen bedding and down pillows. The bathroom has multi-jet shower heads, with a wardrobe, mirror, hair dryer, safe and flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment. Includes complimentary Wi-Fi, daily bottled water and desk.
$6,298 per person Double Occupancy
$12,596 per person Single Occupancy
Category D
Cat D 170 sq. ft - Piano Deck Fixed Windows
Enjoy Egyptian linen bedding and down pillows. The bathroom has multi-jet shower heads, with a wardrobe, mirror, hair dryer, safe and flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment. Includes complimentary Wi-Fi, daily bottled water and desk.
$5,098 per person Double Occupancy
$10,196 per person Single Occupancy
Category E
Cat E 170 sq. ft - Piano Deck Fixed Windows
Enjoy Egyptian linen bedding and down pillows. The bathroom has multi-jet shower heads, with a wardrobe, mirror, hair dryer, safe and flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment. Includes complimentary Wi-Fi, daily bottled water and desk.
$4,799 per person Double Occupancy
$9,598 per person Single Occupancy
ADDITIONAL
INFORMATION
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:
-
Airfare to Dijon (DIJ) and from Lyon (LYS)
-
Transport to and from the ship
-
Travel Insurance
-
Items of personal nature
-
Spa treatments
-
Meals at pre-hotel stay
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
-
Your trip is a BIG investment. If you cannot afford to lose the money you have invested to travel, Passport Rendezvous strongly recommends you consider travel insurance. Do your due diligence by researching & finding the best plan for YOU.
-
Suggested Travel Insurance companies are below. Ensure you inquire about a “Cancel For Any Reason” plan.
DEPOSIT & REFUNDS:
PAYMENT SCHEDULE:
Deposit Schedule Payment schedule as follows:
A $400 Deposit per person is due to fully secure spot.
Final balance is due on March 12, 2027.
AMA Waterways Cancellation Policy:
Full policy can be viewed here: https://www.amawaterways.com/terms-conditions
In the unfortunate event a participant must cancel travel, notice must be made to AmaWaterways during standard business hours or via email to Res@amawaterways.com, which must include writing stating clearly and correctly each guest’s name, ship name, start and end date of travel services and a brief statement of the reason for cancellation. Other forms of notice are not sufficient. Cancellation penalties are determined based on the date AmaWaterways receives the cancellation notice. Any discrepancies between the funds paid and the applicable cancellation penalties will be the sole responsibility of the guest or their booking agent. Cancellations received within 24 hours of vacation start date will be deemed as trip interruption, cannot be cancelled and are 100% non-refundable. The effective date of the cancellation is the date AmaWaterways receives cancellation notice. A change in sailing date, name changes, the substitution of a participant or a reduction in the number of guests in a stateroom are treated as a cancellation in that all applicable cancellation charges apply. A reduction in occupancy is subject to a single supplement charge. A change to a lower stateroom category within 90 days of departure will incur applicable cancellation charges. Cancellation charges for bookings within charter and part-charter agreements are as per the charter contract. All other cancellation charges are per person, based on the cancellation date, as seen in the chart below. You acknowledge that your cancellation will cause us and the Carrier difficulty in selling a replacement cruise or cruise and land reservation and thus the cancellation fees described below apply regardless of whether your cruise or cruise and land reservation is resold. You agree that any losses sustained by us and/or the Carrier in the event of cancellation would be very difficult or impossible to quantify, and the cancellation fees are fair and reasonable as liquidated damages.
CANCELLATION FEES DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE:
121 days or more prior to departure -$200
120-90 days prior to departure -$400
89-60 days prior to departure -35% of cruise and land price
59-31 days prior to departure -50% of cruise and land price
30 days to 25 hours prior to departure- 100% of all charges
24 hours or less -100% of all charges
Cruise Protection Plan and Travel Waiver Plus premiums are non-refundable once purchased. Please note the above penalties are provided on a per person basis. Except as otherwise provided in your Passenger Ticket Contract, after travel begins, there is no refund for unused services, or unused portions of cruise, land packages or airfare.
For questions or help in booking your cruise, please contact:
Amy Olmsted, amy@ultimate-travels.com or 714-345-9293
OR
Sara Schneider, saralschneider@gmail.com or 650-224-1190