Needles ready for knitting cruise

We’ve had cruises devoted to antiques, gardens and golf, to food and drink, country and western, and Harley Davidsons. There are themes of all descriptions to suit all tastes and pockets.
But here’s something completely new – a knitting-themed cruise … hosted by someone described as “one of the top 10 most influential men in the world of knitting’ alongside Charles Dickens and Edward VIII.
My mind is totally boggled.
Barry Klein will host the seven-day river cruise on the Danube from December 27, 2014 – so participants will presumably have received new needles for Christmas. On board AmaBella, Klein will be offering classes on stitch patterns and knitting techniques, forums on fashion trends and the latest in luxury yarns – all included in the £1,674 fare.
Kristin Karst (above), co-owner and executive vice-president of AmaWaterways, said: “Knitting is experiencing a renaissance as a younger generation rediscovers its social and creative appeal. We thought it would be a fun and creative outlet for our guests.
“In today’s increasingly digital world, more and more people are embracing the do-it-yourself, handmade trend. This cruise will bring together a community of knitters and give them opportunities to learn new techniques, find inspiration for new projects, and show off their personal style and creativity.”
Karst continued “Younger knitters may be using the same techniques and equipment as previous generations, but their use of Facebook and Twitter to form online communities and share patterns is a distinctly modern twist. Think of this cruise as an onboard knitting get-together for people of all levels, from beginners to advanced. It will definitely be a unique way to ring in 2015.”
AmaWaterways’ knitting cruise embarks in Vilshofen, Germany, on December 27, 2014. Guests will enjoy scenic cruising and guided tours of Vilshofen, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, as well as an in-depth tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey. There will also be a Champagne New Year’s Eve celebration, with music and dancing.
The AmaBella is a 161-passenger vessel with a salon and spa, swimming pool and fitness centre, and free wifi.