by Elizabeth Higginbottom
If you’ve spent any time on the courts lately, you know the drill: the competitive fire is high, the “one more game” syndrome is real, and the post-match chatter is always about where we’re playing next. But what if “next” wasn’t just the local park or a weekend regional? What if “next” involved sharpening your game in Paris, then sipping a crisp Chardonnay while drifting through the heart of Burgundy and Provence? Welcome to the future of travel. At Pickleball in Paradise, we are officially setting our sights on 2027, and we want you to come along for the ride. On August 5, 2027, we are embarking on a journey that blends high-level athletic growth with the absolute pinnacle of European luxury. We’ve chartered the elegant AmaCello for an exclusive 2027 “Pickleball in Paris” river cruise, and let’s just say, your bucket list is about to get a major upgrade. The adventure begins with Paris, then cruises onward through the Rhône and Saône rivers on the mesmerizing Essence of Burgundy & Provence route. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a country-exploration focus with a major pickleball twist. Whether you’re an ambitious 3.0 or a 4.5 powerhouse, this experience is designed for players who want to see the world without leaving their passion for the game behind.
The Pre-Cruise Polish: Master Your Game in the City of Light
Before we even step foot on the AmaCello, we’re kicking things off with a bang. We know that for our community, a vacation is the perfect time to actually improve, not just maintain. That’s why we’ve organized an optional pre-cruise clinic right in the heart of Paris. Imagine this: You spend your morning under the guidance of IPTPA Master Coaches John & Leesa Walker. We aren’t just hitting balls; we’re dissecting the game. We’ll focus on the nuances of shot selection, mastering the art of the dink, and navigating the transition zone with confidence. It’s about taking those technical skills and sharpening them until they’re as refined as a Parisian pastry.
The beauty of the pre-cruise clinic is the focus. Since European river cruises (like our AmaCello charter) do not include scheduled pickleball play on the ship itself, this is your time to get your “fix” and level up. You’ll head into the cruise with fresh skills and a group of new friends, ready to enjoy the sights of France with your game in peak condition. For more on how these sessions work, check out the ultimate guide to pickleball clinics for adults.
Your Floating Boutique Hotel: The AmaCello
Once the clinics wrap up and the paddles are (temporarily) tucked away, it’s time to board the AmaCello.
If you’ve never experienced an AmaWaterways ship, prepare to be spoiled. This is a boutique experience through and through. Forget the 5,000-passenger mega-ships; this is about intimacy, elegance, and personalized service. As your hosts, Barb Strait and Elizabeth Higginbottom, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure every detail of this charter feels like a VIP event. The AmaCello is designed for relaxation and social connection. Between the breathtaking views from the sun deck and the meticulously designed staterooms, you’ll find that “life on the river” has a tempo all its own.
While the ship doesn’t have courts onboard, the focus shifts to the “Paradise” side of our name. We’re exploring the soul of France through Burgundy and Provence. From the culinary capital of Lyon to the storybook streets of Avignon and the vineyard-lined landscapes of Burgundy, the itinerary is a deep dive into European culture. It’s a luxury pickleball vacation that prioritizes the destination experience as much as the sport.
Fine Dining and Finer Friendships
Let’s talk about the food, because if we’re in France, we’re eating well. The dining experience on the AmaCello is a highlight in itself. We aren’t talking about standard buffet lines; we’re talking about an all-inclusive culinary journey. Think fresh, locally sourced ingredients, regional specialties, and wine that feels right at home as you cruise the Rhône and Saône.
Every evening, we gather for group meals that are less about formal “events” and more about the camaraderie of the pickleball community. There’s something special about sitting down with players from across the globe and recounting the day’s adventures over a perfectly prepared meal. And when dinner ends? The party usually moves to the lounge or wine bar.
The social atmosphere on a Pickleball in Paradise trip is what sets us apart. We’ve cultivated a network of competitive players who are just as fun off the court as they are formidable on it. Whether you’re discussing the latest paddle tech or the incredible architecture we saw in Avignon or Lyon, the wine bar is the hub of our global network.
Stress-Free Planning for the Serious Player
We know that planning a trip to Europe can feel like a full-time job. Between the flights, the transfers, and the logistics of finding places to play, the “vacation” part can get lost in the shuffle. That’s where we come in. Our mission is to provide a “concierge-style” experience that removes every ounce of friction. When you book with us, you aren’t just getting a cabin; you’re getting a curated experience. We handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your third shot drop and which excursion to pick.
A few logistical “pro tips” for our 2027 cruisers: • Accommodations: While every room on the AmaCello is beautiful, premium features like French balconies or suites are available-based add-ons. We recommend booking early to secure your preferred view!
Why a River Cruise is the Ultimate Move
You might be wondering, “Why a river cruise instead of a resort in Turks and Caicos?” (Though we love a 3.5 ladies-only trip to Turks and Caicos too!). The answer is simple: The river cruise offers a “best of both worlds” scenario. You get the luxury and consistency of an all-inclusive resort, but your “resort” moves every night to a stunning new location. One day you’re polishing your game in Paris; the next, you’re exploring Lyon, Avignon, and the vineyard-draped beauty of Burgundy and Provence. It’s the ultimate way to see Europe without ever having to unpack your suitcase more than once.
Join Us in 2027!
The 2027 AmaCello charter is more than a year away, but if there’s one thing we’ve learned about the pickleball community, it’s that we play hard and we plan ahead. Our exclusive charters fill up fast because there truly isn’t anything else like them. You’ll get the coaching you crave, the luxury you deserve, and the social connection that makes this sport so addictive. August 5, 2027, will be here before you know it. Are you ready to dink, drink, and discover France with us? Pack your bags (and your favorite paddle). We’ll see you on the Rhône and Saône!
Contact Us!
Elizabeth Higginbottom Director, Pickleball in Paradise
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 843-331-6955
Website: www.pickleballinparadise.com
