If Music Be…
Glynis Sullivan embarks on an Amsterdam musical river cruise with Clitheroe-based Harmony Voyages
‘If music be the food of love,’ or so Shakespeare said. Well, he must have heard about Harmony Voyages!
Headed by Andy and Angela Schofield, Harmony Voyages seem to have found a niche market for ‘silver travellers’, who love to travel and listen to excellent music performed by some top performers in comfortable surroundings.
If field festivals have lost their magic then relax in style on a five-star river cruise, sleep in a very comfortable bed as you watch the world go by or sit by the hotel pool listening to your favourite bands.
Our mini cruise to Amsterdam was onboard the beautiful Amadeus Imperial, which was waiting for us, standing proud and majestic among many river cruise ships that line the banks close to the centre of Amsterdam. Our very well-appointed cabin was a joy to relax in and the restaurant was like dining in a five-star hotel – and that was only the beginning of our short trip on this music cruise.
Amsterdam is a vibrant city with great transport links to the surrounding area. Take a river boat cruise around the waterways. See the red-light district or take in any of the abundant museums. Take the tram outside the Central Rail Station and travel around for nine euros per day. Make a stop at the Cafe American to look at the amazing architecture and art deco fittings in this iconic hotel.
The music started on Saturday evening with Thea Gilmore’s sultry voice. She gave a stunning performance that spanned her career and her 20 albums. Steve Knightley, a veteran on the folk music scene sang in his distinctive, infectious voice. More fans came on board for the unmistakeable sound of Track Dogs, a Madrid-based folk-Americana-roots band that certainly made the boat rock!
River cruises are amazingly popular trips operated by Harmony with the Douro River being introduced to their portfolio for 2026. Plus, there are two itineraries aboard Royal Clipper, the world’s largest fully masted sailing ship.
The first ‘Gems of the Adriatic’ is happening in August 2025 followed by ‘Caribbean Sunsets’ in February 2026 which will undoubtably be a fantastic experience.
Check out the website for further details harmonyvoyages.co.uk.
Harmony Voyages have a long track record of blending music with holidays. A growing popularity of these music festival holidays with the more mature travelling demographic is evident, as guests enjoy the comfortable surroundings and hassle-free experiences on a ‘Costa Festival’ holiday. What’s more, you’re never alone as the Harmony team are right there with you.
We may be getting older, but music still is, the ‘food of love’.
Harmony Voyages is a member of ABTA and ATOL protected.
Harmony Voyages
36 King Street, Clitheroe BB7 2EU
01254 476075
harmonyvoyages.co.uk
costafestival.co.uk
