AmaWaterways: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The AmaWaterways Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What’s Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Past Guest Benefits
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- AmaWaterways for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of AmaWaterways
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
AmaWaterways is a multi-award-winning river cruise line known for its innovative ships, exceptional service, and culturally immersive journeys. As a family-owned company, it focuses on creating a personalised and enriching travel experience. This approach has positioned AmaWaterways as a leader in the luxury river cruise market.
A Brief History
AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst, and the late Jimmy Murphy. Rudi Schreiner, often called the “Godfather of River Cruising,” used his extensive experience to pioneer new standards for the industry. The co-founders established the company with a clear commitment to delivering a higher level of luxury and guest satisfaction.
From the beginning, the company has consistently innovated, introducing features like the ‘Twin Balcony’ stateroom, which includes both a French and an outside balcony. They also pioneered inclusive speciality dining at The Chef’s Table and offered complimentary bicycles for onshore exploration. The launch of the double-width AmaMagna in 2019 further highlighted their dedication to spacious and elegant river cruising.
The AmaWaterways Fleet
AmaWaterways operates a modern fleet of custom-designed river ships, each built for comfort and optimal views of the passing scenery. With an average of just 156 guests per ship, the atmosphere is intimate and the service is highly personalised. The ships are thoughtfully designed with premium amenities to enhance the journey.
AmaMagna
- Launch Date: 2019
- Tonnage: 3,428 GT
- Capacity: 196 passengers
- Notable Features: Double-width design, multiple dining venues, sundeck pool, cinema
As the flagship, the revolutionary AmaMagna is nearly twice the width of traditional European river ships. This extra space allows for larger staterooms and more expansive public areas. She offers a uniquely spacious and luxurious way to experience the Danube River.
AmaLucia
- Launch Date: 2021
- Tonnage: 2,870 GT
- Capacity: 156 passengers
- Notable Features: Twin Balcony staterooms, heated sundeck pool, Chef’s Table restaurant, Wellness Host
Part of AmaWaterways’ popular Concerto class, AmaLucia offers an elegant and contemporary cruising experience. Most staterooms feature the line’s signature Twin Balconies. Her intimate size and premium amenities make her a favourite on the Rhine and Danube rivers.
AmaDara
- Launch Date: 2015
- Tonnage: 1,844 GT
- Capacity: 124 passengers
- Notable Features: French Colonial decor, two restaurants, sundeck pool, air-conditioned lounges
Custom-built to sail the Mekong River, AmaDara combines modern luxury with authentic regional character. Her design reflects French Colonial elegance with rich wood finishes. She provides a comfortable base for exploring Vietnam and Cambodia.
Zambezi Queen
- Launch Date: 2009
- Tonnage: 598 GT
- Capacity: 28 passengers
- Notable Features: Intimate safari experience, private balconies, plunge pool, expert guides
Offering a unique African river safari on the Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen is an intimate vessel. Her 14 suites all feature private balconies for incredible wildlife viewing. It’s a boutique experience blending adventure with comfort in Botswana.
Other Ships in the Fleet
The AmaWaterways fleet includes many other beautifully appointed ships sailing the world’s most iconic rivers. This includes vessels on the Douro, Seine, and Rhône, as well as exotic destinations like Egypt’s Nile and Colombia’s Magdalena River. Each ship is designed to reflect its destination while maintaining high standards of comfort and service.
AmaBella | AmaCello | AmaCerto | AmaDante | AmaDolce | AmaDouro | AmaKristina | AmaLea | AmaLyra | AmaMora | AmaPrima | AmaReina | AmaSerena | AmaSiena | AmaSintra | AmaSonata | AmaStella | AmaVenita | AmaVerde | AmaVida | AmaViola | AmaDahlia | AmaLilia | AmaMagdalena
Accommodation and Service Levels
AmaWaterways offers spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and suites, most of which feature their signature ‘Twin Balconies’. All accommodations include amenities like an in-room computer with complimentary movies and bottled water replenished daily. The service is attentive yet unobtrusive, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Standard Cabins
Even entry-level staterooms are well-designed for comfort, with most featuring either a French Balcony or the signature Twin Balcony. The most basic category has a fixed window located high on the stateroom wall. These provide a comfortable and stylish retreat after a day of exploration.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- French Balcony: A floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door that opens to a railing, allowing fresh air and expansive views into your room.
- Twin Balcony: A unique design featuring both a French Balcony and a separate, full step-out balcony with chairs, offering maximum flexibility.
- In-Room Entertainment: An Apple iMac that doubles as a television and computer, offering free movies on demand, music, and internet access.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
Suites provide significantly more space, making them ideal for longer journeys or for those who wish to indulge. They feature an expanded sitting area with a sofa and a larger bathroom, often with both a shower and bathtub. The top-tier suites on ships like the AmaMagna offer expansive living areas for a true sense of luxury.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Increased Space: Suites offer a larger footprint, typically ranging from 210 to over 700 square feet, providing a spacious living and sleeping area.
- Enhanced Bathrooms: Many suites include double sinks and a separate bathtub and shower, adding an extra touch of comfort.
- Prime Locations: Suites are generally located in premium, mid-ship locations on the upper decks, offering convenient access and optimal views.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
While AmaWaterways does not operate a “ship-within-a-ship” concept, suite guests receive additional benefits to enhance their experience. These perks are designed to provide extra convenience and a touch of luxury. The primary advantages of booking a suite remain the added space and premium location.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Welcome Gift: Guests in select suite categories are often welcomed with a complimentary bottle of champagne to start their journey.
- Complimentary Laundry: Most suite categories include a complimentary laundry service, which is a significant convenience on longer voyages.
- Priority Check-in: Suite guests may benefit from priority embarkation, allowing for a smoother start to their holiday.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
AmaWaterways has made efforts to accommodate guests with mobility issues, though the nature of river ships presents some challenges. Select ships have cabins designed for accessibility and an elevator servicing guest decks. It is essential to contact the cruise line directly to discuss specific needs.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Wider Doorways: Accessible cabins feature wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Modified Bathrooms: These cabins are equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower sinks for ease of use.
- Elevator Access: On ships with accessible cabins, an elevator typically serves all main passenger decks but not usually the Sun Deck.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What’s Included in Your Fare
AmaWaterways provides a largely inclusive fare, which simplifies budgeting for your trip. The price of your cruise covers all gourmet dining, a wide selection of beverages, and a variety of enriching shore excursions. This approach ensures a relaxing and hassle-free holiday experience from start to finish.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Gourmet Dining: All meals onboard, including at the intimate, complimentary speciality restaurant, The Chef’s Table.
- Beverages: High-quality local wine, beer, and soft drinks are included with every lunch and dinner. A daily “Sip & Sail” cocktail hour also offers a selection of complimentary drinks.
- Shore Excursions: A diverse range of expertly guided small-group shore excursions is included in every port, with options for gentle, regular, and active paces.
- Wi-Fi and Bicycles: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship, and a fleet of bicycles is available for personal exploration ashore.
- Wellness Programme: A variety of professionally led wellness classes, such as yoga and stretching, are included.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Past Guest Benefits
AmaWaterways does not have a traditional tiered loyalty programme based on points or cruise nights. Instead, they offer a range of benefits to all returning guests to thank them for their loyalty. These perks are available from the very first cruise you book after completing your initial journey.
Returning Guest Status
Requirement: Complete one AmaWaterways cruise.
Perks & Benefits:
- A £100 per person discount on your next 7-night cruise.
- A special welcome gift in your stateroom on your next cruise.
- Referral savings for both you and any new guests you refer.
- Exclusive early access to information on new itineraries and special offers.
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
As a luxury, all-inclusive river cruise line, AmaWaterways does not offer traditional pre-paid packages for drinks, dining, or internet. This is because these amenities are already included in the cruise fare. However, there are optional extras you can arrange to enhance your holiday.
Optional Pre- and Post-Cruise Land Packages
For a more immersive experience, AmaWaterways offers expertly curated land packages that can be added to your cruise. These are fully integrated extensions of your holiday.
- Hotel Stays: Includes accommodation in centrally located, high-quality hotels.
- Guided Tours: Allows you to explore cities like Prague, Paris, or Budapest in greater depth with knowledgeable local guides.
- Transfers: Seamless transfers between the airport, hotel, and ship are included for a stress-free experience.
Onboard Extras Not Included in the Fare
While the vast majority of your onboard experience is covered, a few items are available at an additional cost. These can be paid for as you go.
- Premium Beverages: Spirits and premium wines outside of the “Sip & Sail” cocktail hour are available for purchase.
- Spa and Salon Services: Onboard massage, hair, and nail services are available at an extra charge.
- Laundry Services: A laundry service is available for a fee (complimentary for most suite guests).
Visit the official AmaWaterways website for current pricing and details.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line’s official website.
Dining Options
As the only river cruise line inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary society, AmaWaterways treats dining as a central part of the travel experience. Every meal celebrates regional flavours, crafted with locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Guests can expect a blend of classic and contemporary dishes, all served with complimentary regional wines.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- Main Restaurant: The elegant, primary dining venue serving gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an open-seating policy. Menus are regionally inspired and feature a wide variety of choices.
- The Chef’s Table: An intimate, complimentary speciality restaurant where guests can watch chefs prepare a multi-course tasting menu in an open-kitchen setting. Reservations are required for this popular culinary experience.
- Al Fresco Restaurant (AmaMagna): An outdoor dining venue offering stunning views and a delightful menu, exclusive to the line’s flagship.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Life aboard AmaWaterways is a seamless blend of relaxation, enrichment, and gentle activity, complementing the destinations you visit. The focus is on a sophisticated atmosphere where you can do as much or as little as you like. From invigorating wellness classes to simply watching the world go by, the choice is yours.
Onboard, you can expect:
- Wellness Programs: Led by a dedicated Wellness Host, guests can participate in complimentary fitness classes, such as yoga, stretching, and core strengthening, often held on the sundeck with panoramic views.
- Daytime Relaxation: The sundeck is a popular hub, featuring a heated swimming pool (or whirlpool), comfortable lounge chairs, and a walking track, providing the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Evening Entertainment: Evenings are typically sophisticated and low-key, featuring a resident pianist, informative talks by the Cruise Manager, and performances by local musicians brought on board to showcase regional culture.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
AmaWaterways for Solo Travellers
AmaWaterways is an excellent choice for solo travellers, thanks to its intimate ships and friendly, communal atmosphere. The open-seating dining and small group excursions make it easy to meet fellow passengers. The overall environment is welcoming and secure for individuals travelling alone.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
AmaWaterways is very solo-friendly, frequently offering promotions that waive or significantly reduce the single supplement on select sailings. Additionally, some ships have dedicated single-occupancy staterooms. These provide all the same amenities as a standard double cabin in a cost-effective space.
Key options and features include:
- Single Supplement Offers: The cruise line often reduces or waives the single supplement fee on many European and Mekong itineraries, making solo travel more affordable.
- Dedicated Solo Cabins: Select ships, like AmaLyra and AmaDolce, feature purpose-built single occupancy staterooms with a French balcony, priced for one person.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
The small-ship environment naturally fosters social connections, so official solo meetups are not usually necessary. The crew and Cruise Manager are excellent at making introductions. Events like the “Sip & Sail” cocktail hour are great, low-pressure ways to socialise.
Key options and features include:
- Open-Seating Dining: All meals are open-seating, providing a great opportunity to dine with different guests each evening.
- Small Group Excursions: Included tours are conducted in small groups, which encourages interaction and helps you get to know your fellow travellers.
- Communal Spaces: The main lounge and sundeck are central hubs where guests gather, making it easy to strike up a conversation.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
The dress code aboard AmaWaterways is relaxed and informal, often described as “country club casual.” During the day, comfortable attire suitable for walking tours is recommended. In the evening, most guests opt for smart casual wear.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Attire: Comfortable walking shoes, trousers, shorts, and casual tops are appropriate for both onboard relaxation and shore excursions.
- Evening Attire: For evenings, men typically wear collared shirts with trousers, while women opt for smart trousers, skirts, or casual dresses.
- Captain’s Dinner: There are no formal nights, but guests often choose to dress up slightly for the Captain’s Welcome and Farewell dinners. A jacket for men or a cocktail dress is appropriate but not required.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Gratuities are not included in the cruise fare for European and South American sailings but are included for cruises on the Mekong, Nile, and in Africa. For European river cruises, AmaWaterways provides tipping guidelines, though it is at the guest’s discretion. The suggested amount is typically paid in cash at the end of the cruise.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Suggested Amount (Europe): The recommended amount for the ship’s crew is €120 per guest for a 7-night cruise. For the Cruise Manager, the suggestion is €30 per guest for the same duration.
- Payment Method: Gratuities for European cruises can be paid in Euros at the end of the voyage, and envelopes are provided for your convenience.
- Included Gratuities (Other Regions): For sailings in Vietnam, Cambodia, Africa, and Egypt, all onboard gratuities are included in the overall holiday price.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
AmaWaterways includes a generous selection of beverages, so it is generally not necessary to bring your own alcohol on board. However, the cruise line permits guests to bring local wine on board to enjoy. This allows you to sample a special bottle you might find ashore.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Wine/Champagne: Guests are permitted to bring local wine purchased in port on board. There is no specified limit on the number of bottles.
- Corkage Fee: If you choose to bring a personal bottle of wine to the dining room or lounge to be served by the staff, a corkage fee will apply.
- Other Beverages: Bringing personal spirits or beer on board for consumption is generally discouraged due to the inclusive nature of the fare.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Guest feedback for AmaWaterways is overwhelmingly positive, cementing its reputation as a top-tier river cruise line. Travellers consistently highlight the exceptional service and high-quality inclusions. However, like any travel experience, a few points of constructive feedback are common.
Common Praises
- Exceptional Crew & Service: Guests frequently describe the crew as the highlight, noting their professionalism, friendliness, and attention to detail that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- High-Quality Cuisine: The food and wine programme receives consistent acclaim, from the gourmet meals in the Main Restaurant to the unique tasting menu at The Chef’s Table.
- Well-Organised Excursions: The included shore excursions are praised for being well-organised and led by knowledgeable local guides, with varied tour paces catering to different fitness levels.
Common Criticisms
- Pace of Itineraries: Some guests find the daily schedule, with early morning tours, to be quite demanding. While options are available, the overall pace can feel rushed for those preferring a more leisurely holiday.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: While complimentary Wi-Fi is a valued amenity, its speed can be inconsistent, particularly when sailing through remote stretches or locks.
- Evening Entertainment Style: The low-key nature of the evening entertainment, while perfect for many, is sometimes seen as too quiet for guests who prefer more vibrant, show-style performances.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
AmaWaterways is deeply committed to sustainable tourism and protecting the rivers on which it sails. The company has earned the prestigious Green Award certification for its entire European fleet. This confirms their dedication to cleaner engines, waste reduction, and eco-friendly operational practices.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Green Award Certification: The entire European fleet is certified for its high safety and environmental standards, featuring cleaner, more efficient engines.
- Waste Management: The ships are equipped with advanced wastewater treatment systems, and the crew actively works to eliminate single-use plastics by providing reusable water bottles.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern ships are built with energy-efficient LED lighting throughout to reduce power consumption.
- Local Sourcing: The culinary team prioritises sourcing local ingredients to reduce food miles and support local economies in the destinations visited.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line’s official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
For the most accurate information, always refer to the official AmaWaterways websites. They provide details on itineraries, ship layouts, and current promotions. You can also make direct bookings or find a certified travel agent through their official channels.
The primary official websites are:
- United Kingdom Site: https://www.amawaterways.co.uk/
- United States Site: https://www.amawaterways.com/
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
It is the sole responsibility of the traveller to identify and obtain all necessary travel documents. All guests must carry a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the completion date of their cruise. Depending on your nationality and the countries visited, visas may also be required.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining after your cruise is scheduled to end.
- Visas: You must secure any required visas for the countries on your itinerary based on your nationality.
- Blank Pages: Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for any entry and exit stamps.
The cruise line has the final say on required documentation, and their rules are often stricter than a country’s entry requirements. For example, a country might only require 3 months of passport validity, but the cruise line’s firm policy mandates 6 months. In this situation, the cruise line’s stricter rule applies, and you would be denied boarding if you fail to meet it.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
An adult travelling with a minor for whom they are not the parent or legal guardian must carry a signed letter of consent. This letter must be from the child’s legal guardians authorising the trip and permitting emergency medical treatment. This is crucial for grandparents or family friends travelling with children.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Letter of Consent: A signed and dated letter from all legal guardians authorising the specific trip.
- Medical Authorisation: The consent letter should explicitly grant permission for the supervising adult to authorise emergency medical treatment for the minor.
- Supporting Documents: It is also advisable to carry copies of the minor’s birth certificate and the legal guardians’ passports.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
Guest safety is the highest priority, and all guests must participate in a mandatory safety briefing on the first day. For safety, certain items that pose a fire hazard are not permitted on board. Your luggage may be subject to screening, and any prohibited items will be confiscated.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Mandatory Safety Drill: All guests must attend the safety briefing on embarkation day to familiarise themselves with emergency procedures.
- Prohibited Electronics: Items with heating elements, such as clothing irons, heating pads, and coffee makers, are strictly forbidden.
- Drones: The operation of drones from the ship or during cruise line excursions is not permitted for safety and privacy reasons.
- Weapons and Sharp Objects: Firearms, knives (other than small personal grooming tools), and any other items deemed to be weapons are prohibited.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line’s official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
You must bring all medications in their original, pharmacy-labelled containers and carry them in your hand luggage. Under international maritime law, all illegal drugs and substances are strictly prohibited. The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy, and any violations will result in immediate removal from the ship.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: Keep all medicines in their original packaging and carry a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor.
- Illegal Substances: All illegal drugs are strictly forbidden. This includes cannabis, even if it is legal in your home region or for medicinal purposes.
- CBD Products: Due to the ambiguous legal status of CBD products across different countries, they are also prohibited on board.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
AmaWaterways has specific policies regarding bringing food on and taking food off the ship to ensure guest health and safety. These rules also help comply with local and international agricultural regulations. The ship provides ample high-quality food throughout the day to meet all your needs.
Bringing Food Onboard
You may bring small quantities of pre-packaged, non-perishable snacks on board. However, bringing perishable items like fruit or homemade goods is not permitted. This is due to health and hygiene regulations designed to protect all guests.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: Commercially packaged and sealed, non-perishable snacks like biscuits, crisps, or chocolate bars are generally allowed.
- Prohibited Items: Perishable foods such as fruit, cheese, meat products, or any homemade items are not permitted.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
For health and safety reasons, taking perishable food from the ship’s restaurants to consume ashore is prohibited. This policy helps prevent foodborne illness. You may, however, take certain sealed, pre-packaged items with you for your day out.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: Sealed, pre-packaged items provided by the cruise line, such as a box of crackers or a granola bar, can be taken ashore.
- Prohibited Items: Open-plate food from buffets or restaurants, including fruit, sandwiches, or pastries, cannot be taken off the ship.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
You are welcome to bring sealed, shelf-stable food items back to the ship as souvenirs, such as a box of chocolates. However, fresh agricultural products are not allowed. These restrictions are due to international laws that prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: Commercially sealed and packaged items like chocolates, biscuits, or olive oil are acceptable to bring back on board.
- Prohibited Items: Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat products, and plants are strictly prohibited from being brought back onto the ship.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
AmaWaterways sails from a variety of scenic and historic ports across the globe. Below are some of the key embarkation points for their 2025 season. These cities are often destinations in themselves, perfect for adding a pre- or post-cruise stay.
- Danube River: Budapest (Hungary) | Vilshofen (Germany) | Nuremberg (Germany)
- Rhine River: Amsterdam (Netherlands) | Basel (Switzerland)
- France (Seine, Rhône, Garonne): Paris | Lyon | Bordeaux | Arles
- Douro River (Portugal): Porto
- Mekong River (Vietnam & Cambodia): Ho Chi Minh City | Siem Reap
- Nile River (Egypt): Luxor
- Chobe River (Africa): Kasane (Botswana)
- Magdalena River (Colombia): Cartagena | Barranquilla
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of AmaWaterways
To give you a better sense of the experiences offered, here are three examples of popular AmaWaterways itineraries. These showcases demonstrate the variety of destinations and themes available. Each journey is curated to provide deep cultural immersion and scenic cruising.
Melodies of the Danube
Perfect for first-time river cruisers, this classic route combines relaxing cruising with stops at grand European capitals. It journeys from vibrant Budapest to charming Vilshofen, passing through mediaeval towns and the beautiful Wachau Valley. This voyage is a fantastic introduction to the elegance of river cruising.
- Best For: First-Time River Cruisers, Couples, History Buffs
- Duration: 7 Nights
- Departure Port: Budapest, Hungary
- Example Ship: AmaLea
- Typical Ports of Call: Budapest, Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk, Passau, Vilshofen
Essence of Burgundy & Provence
Ideal for foodies and wine connoisseurs, this itinerary explores the culinary heart of France along the Rhône and Saône rivers. Sailing from Lyon to Arles, you’ll discover Roman ruins, famous vineyards, and artistic inspirations. It is a journey that delights the senses at every turn.
- Best For: Food & Wine Lovers, Art Aficionados, Couples
- Duration: 7 Nights
- Departure Port: Lyon, France
- Example Ship: AmaCello
- Typical Ports of Call: Lyon, Mâcon, Vienne, Tournon, Avignon, Arles
Charms of the Mekong
This exotic itinerary offers a deep dive into the rich cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia, sailing between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. The journey reveals ancient temples, bustling floating markets, and timeless rural villages. It is a truly transformative travel experience for the adventurous soul.
- Best For: Adventurous Travellers, Culture Enthusiasts
- Duration: 7 Nights (plus required pre/post-cruise land stays)
- Departure Port: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Example Ship: AmaDara
- Typical Ports of Call: Sa Dec, Tan Chau, Phnom Penh, Oudong, Angkor Ban
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Wi-Fi free on AmaWaterways?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. However, the service can be intermittent when sailing through locks or remote areas, so it’s not suitable for heavy streaming. - Are flights included with an AmaWaterways cruise?
Flights are not typically included in the standard cruise fare but can be booked as part of a package through AmaWaterways. This allows guests flexibility in their travel arrangements. - Is there a doctor on board?
No, river cruise ships do not have a doctor or infirmary. As the ship is always close to land, local medical services can be contacted quickly for assistance if required. - What power sockets are in the cabins?
Cabins are equipped with European-style 220V, two-pin power sockets. It is recommended to bring a universal travel adapter to charge your devices. - Are there laundry services available?
Yes, a laundry service is available on board for a fee. Guests staying in most suite categories receive complimentary laundry services. - Can I smoke on board?
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is only permitted in a designated outdoor area on the Sun Deck. Smoking is strictly prohibited in staterooms, on balconies, and in all interior spaces. - Are there lifts on the ships?
Most AmaWaterways ships are equipped with a lift (elevator) that services the main passenger decks. However, the lift typically does not go up to the Sun Deck. - Can you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, AmaWaterways can accommodate most dietary requirements, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and diabetic. It is essential to notify the cruise line of any special requests at the time of booking. - What is the minimum age to travel?
The minimum age for children on most AmaWaterways cruises is four years old. However, it’s recommended that children be at least eight years old to fully enjoy the experience. - Are there tea and coffee facilities in the cabins?
No, staterooms do not have in-room tea and coffee makers. However, complimentary speciality coffees, teas, and hot chocolate are available 24/7 from a machine in the main lounge.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- “Free Cruise” or “Exclusive Offer” Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you’ve won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced “exclusive” deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for “port taxes,” or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line’s official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a “limited-time offer” that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer’s legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with AmaWaterways begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact AmaWaterways directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
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Tiqets: Museums and Attractions
Transport & Transfers
AutoEurope Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Economy Bookings Car Hire: Click Here to Book
Welcome Pickups: Airport Transfers
Kiwitaxi: Private Transfers and Tours
Other Services
Compensair: Flight Delay Compensation
Radical Storage: Luggage Storage
Yesim: eSIM Provider
Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
Affiliate Disclosure
Many of the links are affiliate links, The Essential Cruise Shop may receive a commission from qualifying clicks, orders or bookings. This income helps support our efforts to provide and improve our site and turn it into a one stop resource for travellers with a bias towards cruising.
