European River Cruise Expert

Cruising the Moselle River with Ama Waterways

My journey into the world of luxury travel didn't begin in a typical agency; it began in the vineyards of Burgundy and the cellar of my own winery. For 23 years, as the founder and General Manager of Coeur d'Alene Cellars, I have lived and breathed the "Art of Hospitality." My career has been dedicated to crafting ultra-premium varietals and creating "serious wines for not-so-serious people." This decades-long immersion in fine wine and high-end service provides me with a unique lens through which I view the travel industry. I don't just book trips; I curate sensory journeys that bridge the gap between the world’s most renowned vineyards and its most storied waterways.

As the founder of Thirsty Bird Travel, I specialize in the most intimate and culturally rich way to experience the heart of Europe: the luxury river cruise. My expertise is backed by top-tier industry certifications and a deep, working knowledge of the world’s leading lines. I am a Certified Specialist with Ama Waterways and Avalon Waterways, ensuring that every guest receives the benefit of my specialized training and direct industry connections. My experience is particularly rooted in group travel. I have successfully guided numerous groups, ranging from 15 to 40 guests, through the historic rivers of Europe. Most recently, I served as the Travel Advisor and Wine Host for a group of 35 on the "Moselle and Rhine Splendors" itinerary. These experiences have taught me that a truly luxury cruise is more than just a beautiful suite—it is about the seamless orchestration of people, places, and palates.

A river cruise is only as good as the experiences that bookend it. To ensure a flawless transition from the ship to the shore, I leverage my extensive partnerships with elite land operators, including Abercrombie & Kent, Europe Express, and Classic Vacations. Whether I am arranging a private pre-cruise tour of a Grand Cru vineyard in Champagne or a post-cruise boutique stay in a hidden corner of Paris, I ensure that the luxury standard never wavers. My commitment to excellence extends to every accommodation I select. Having completed the Marriott Hotel Excellence program, I possess the insider knowledge to guarantee that pre- and post-cruise stays meet the exacting standards of the luxury traveler. I understand the nuances of the "Star" rating system and the "Bonvoy" luxury portfolio, ensuring my clients enjoy the finest suites and service available.

I believe that travel should be sophisticated but never stuffy. My background as a CPA and an MBA-holder ensures that the logistics are handled with surgical precision, while my heart as a vintner ensures the journey is filled with joy and discovery. Whether you are seeking a yacht-style cruise through the Adriatic or a wine-focused journey through the heart of Germany, I provide an insider’s perspective that only someone from the world of fine wine can offer.

Let’s plan your next vintage of memories. I handle the complex logistics of luxury group travel, so you can focus on the view from the deck and the glass in your hand.