An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than the destination – it’s the journey. We invite you to take one of our European river cruises, Asia river cruises, or Africa river cruises and see the world in luxury and comfort.
River cruising is a relaxing, immersive and thoroughly enjoyable form of travel where you can enjoy ever-changing scenery along the banks of waterways such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Volga and Yangtze. Discover local culture and sights on included tours, and then hop back on your luxurious river cruise ship and sail to the next stunning city or charming town.
Included in the fares of our featured AmaWaterways river cruises are shore excursions in every port of call; all dining on board; fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; internet access and Wi-Fi; and bicycles that you can use to explore on your own or join our guided bike tours.
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Contoured by vineyard-clad hills and castles from yesteryear, the legendary Rhine captivates. Experience the allure of France’s Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and its priceless gem, Colmar. Discover Breisach, rising above the vineyards of the Rhine, and Freiburg, one of Germany’s sunniest cities and gateway to the Black Forest. Fabled towns lost in time present you with the chance to taste local flavors—Rüdesheimer coffee and legendary German beer—and to touch history up close with guided hikes and bike rides. From Amsterdam’s colorful canals to the majestic Swiss Alps, journey into the heart of the destinations you visit.
COUNTRIES: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
RIVERS: Rhine
Grand cities blend in perfect harmony with their historic past and their progressive future. Inspirational towns have given way to great stories, poetry and music, like Heidelberg, where Mark Twain wrote A Tramp Abroad. Timeless traditions remain intact—from the brewing of Germany’s legendary beers, to the making of Rüdesheimer coffee. Take a front-row seat on an enchanting journey that takes you along the Rhine and through its designated UNESCO World Heritage Site with its 40 castles strung like pearls on its river banks and to magnificent cities and charming villages alike.
COUNTRIES: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
RIVERS: Rhine
Those longing for the romance of Old World Europe will get to travel into the very heart of the continent, where empires were built, kings and queens were crowned and some of the world’s greatest music was composed and performed by the likes of Mozart and Beethoven. Grand European cities like Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest forever remain timeless. Admire the beauty of Salzburg or the Czech Republic’s charming mountain town, Ceský Krumlov. From grand abbeys and fortresses perched high above the Danube to plentiful iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, be romanced by the Danube with all her regal and romantic splendor.
COUNTRIES: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
RIVERS: Danube
Journey along the Danube and see firsthand why this storied river has inspired generations of artists, poets and musicians. Indulge your passion for timeless architecture and art in three magnificent capitals: Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. Let the hills come alive with the sounds of music in Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District. Cruise through the enchanting Strudengau Valley and let the melodies of the Danube carry you from one gem to another on a regal journey through time.
COUNTRIES: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
RIVERS: Danube
Indulge your passion for awe-inspiring architecture, timeless music, breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights on this beautifully curated itinerary specifically designed for AmaMagna. Apricot brandy and chocolate tasting in Dürnstein and an exclusive wine festival in Spitz are only a few of the epicurean experiences you’ll indulge in. Vienna, home to a treasure trove of Baroque splendors, including its grand Schönbrunn Palace, gives you a glimpse into bygone grandeur; while Budapest and Bratislava offer a vibrant mix of east and west. With plenty of daytime scenic sailing, you’ll be able to enjoy the extraordinary AmaMagnato its fullest—from al fresco dining to spinning with a view.
COUNTRIES: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
RIVERS: Danube
From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Begin your cruise in Lyon, France’s culinary capital, and savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. You can even become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles and learn how to pair chocolate with wine. Explore Avignon, a sprawling commune with an overwhelming array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, intriguing art museums and historic charm. Lower the drawbridge of your fantasies in Arles, where you will trace the steps of famous artists including Van Gogh and Picasso.
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Rhone
Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Rhone, Saone
Embark on a journey that caters to discerning tastes and highlights the decadent French flavors throughout the Burgundy region. Enjoy crisp wine tastings throughout your journey in beautiful destinations such as Seurre, Tournus, Mâcon and Lyon. Absorb the breathtaking scenery of elegant vineyards and historic sites as you sail along the Saône River. Savor exquisite regional cuisine and delightful treats on board and in the wonderful ports you visit. More than just the incredible food and drink you will taste throughout this itinerary, the flavors of Burgundy expand to the rich culture and fascinating history, all of which you will enjoy on this captivating journey.
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Rhone, Saone
From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine’s journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux’s finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux’s colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.
COUNTRIES: France
RIVERS: Garonne, Dordogne
Celebrate spring in the Netherlands and Belgium when the Keukenhof Gardens and Floralia come alive. Experience the whimsical Kinderdijk windmills. Discover the timeless traditions of Delft porcelain and revel in the medieval architectural treasures of Bruges or Ghent. Throughout your journey indulge in Belgian chocolates, warm waffles and delicious cheeses—all while savoring the storybook atmosphere of the region.
COUNTRIES: Belgium, Netherlands
RIVERS: Dutch and Belgian Waterways
Rambling vineyards and charming native farms cling to the steep sides of the Douro River Valley, creating an incomparable backdrop to one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions and to Port country— the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Sail roundtrip from Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges”; visit Regua, the ‘capital’ of the Douro Valley; and marvel at Salamanca, the UNESCO-designated “Golden City.” Taste wines from historic wineries and soak up the genuine beauty of one of Europe’s most unadulterated landscapes.
COUNTRIES: Portugal, Spain
RIVERS: Douro
Set sail in Porto, the beautiful “City of Bridges” and gateway to the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with rambling vineyards and charming quintas, which cling to the steep sides of the river. Taste wines from these vineyards and discover the timeless traditions of Portuguese winemaking throughout your journey. Visit Castelo Rodrigo, the “White Village”; enjoy an immersive lunch at a quinta in Pinhão; see Lamego, one of Portugal’s most important pilgrimage sites; and marvel at a centuries-old Portuguese monastery. Historic places, unspoiled beauty and distinctive wines are yours to be enjoyed as you savor the flavors of Spain and Portugal.
COUNTRIES: Portugal, Spain
RIVERS: Douro
Touch history in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, as you sail along the exotic lower Danube. Celtic fortifications, medieval towns and grand cities, along with the natural beauty of pastoral landscapes and the Danube’s famed Iron Gates, showcase the best of eastern Europe. Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to bike through Belgrade’s sprawling Kalemegdan Park. Wine connoisseurs will have a chance to taste history from the centuries-old wine-growing hills dating back to the Romans in Croatia. Be treated to the flavors, sights, sounds and cultures of this diverse swath of the continent.
COUNTRIES: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia
RIVERS: Danube
Upgrade Rewards Program is valid on select 2025 Europe and Asia sailings (excluding Portugal, Colombia, Egypt, and Africa), applicable to new FIT and Group reservations made from October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Offer is combinable with current retail promotions of $1,000/C$1,200 per stateroom savings (or more) or 10% Cruise Savings (or more). Offer is combinable with AmaWaterways’ Loyalty Benefits, Future Cruise Benefits, Referral Savings, Combination Cruise Savings, and Consortia programs. Offer is not not combinable with Summer Triple Savings, Holiday Triple Savings, industry rates or other offers deemed by AmaWaterways.
Complimentary upgrades are based on double occupancy; applicable to guests reserved in a balcony stateroom in Categories CB, CA, C, B, A, BB, BA, AB, AA (AmaMagna – reserved in Categories AB, AA); offer includes one category upgrade, excluding suites; and is subject to availability at time of reservation. Prepaid gratuities apply to the cruise portion only. Complimentary bag of laundry is only applicable to guests booked in suite categories AA+, A+, S, SS, SB, SA, GS, OS; offer includes 1 complimentary bag of laundry per week (exclusions apply). Onboard credit of $100 per stateroom ($50 per person) is in USD and applicable to solo and double occupancy and is only applicable to guests reserved in Suite categories AA+, A+, S, SS, SB, SA, GS, OS.
Sailing dates above include $150 per person onboard credit. Dates noted with a (*) replace the onboard credit with pre-paid gratuities and private cocktail party.
At AmaWaterways, we love what we do — providing our guests with the best travel experiences possible. In fact, “Ama” is derived from the Latin word for “love.” It is a concept that permeates every aspect of our river cruises, from the design of our ships to the development of our itineraries to the high levels of service we deliver to our guests. It is a philosophy that drives our attention to detail, constant innovation and culture of always making our guests our top priority. It is the reason our guests all have a story about why it was the best cruise they’ve ever taken. When you sail with AmaWaterways, you will experience the luxury of more – more ways to discover, more ways to indulge and more onboard amenities. With an award-winning fleet, critically acclaimed dining and unique tour options, you will have the trip of a lifetime on our cruises.
More VIEWS
Most of the staterooms on AmaWaterways’ fleet feature not just one, but two private balconies — a French balcony and a full outside balcony. Together, they provide a unique panoramic view of the beautiful sights along the river and maximize the natural light coming in. With twin balconies, you can enjoy the river however you like.
More ROOM
AmaWaterways’ ships are your floating sanctuary. That’s why we chose to carry fewer guests (at most 164), so that we could make your staterooms larger and provide more amenities. With fewer people on board, public spaces like restaurants and lounges are never crowded, and accommodations range from 155 square feet all the way up to 350 square feet.
More INCLUDED TOURS
We realize that our guests have different tastes, so AmaWaterways has developed a menu of shore excursions in every port of call. In many destinations, you’ll be free to choose from one of several options — all of which are included in your cruise fare. There’s always a city tour designed to show you all the renowned highlights and landmarks in grand capitals and charming villages alike.
Is it your first time in Vienna? Opt for an unforgettable exploration of the major sights led by a local, English-speaking guide that is well-versed in history and culture. Have you already been to Nuremberg? Instead of taking the city tour, indulge in a bratwurst and beer tasting on one of AmaWaterways’ Special Interest Tours, which are specially designed to place you in the midst of local life. We also offer different tour paces: Gentle, regular and active. The choice is yours.
More ACTIVE WAYS TO DISCOVER
With AmaWaterways, you have the option of exploring Europe’s amazing sights like the locals do. We were the first river cruise line to carry an entire fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, so you can experience biking alongside enchanting riverside pathways and in city centers. Whether you feel like joining one of our exclusive guided bike tours, or want to go discover on your own, there are many ways for you to explore on two wheels during your cruise.
The beauty of Europe doesn’t just lie in its architecture and landmarks – there are also breathtaking things to be seen when you venture out into nature. That’s why AmaWaterways has designed special guided hikes that will take you a bit off the beaten path in some very beautiful destinations like the Wachau Valley. These unique, active tour options are included in all AmaWaterways cruise fares so that you have more choices when it comes to how you prefer to explore.
More DINING
AmaWaterways was invited to be a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs – a prestigious international culinary society – and with good reason. Our expert chefs craft menus that feature exquisite, locally-inspired cuisine as well as traditional Western offerings. We are the only river cruise line that has The Chef’s Table, an intimate specialty restaurant where you can watch the chef prepare a lavish dinner right in front of you. Each meal is specially paired with premium local reds and whites from Europe’s renowned wine regions, with new selections each night. There’s also sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast, menu service during lunch, as well as delicious tapas and snacks in the Main Lounge between meals.
All onboard dining, as well as unlimited wine and beer with lunch and dinner plus Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour each evening, is included so you can indulge whenever and however you’d like.
More WAYS TO RELAX & BE ENTERTAINED
With fewer guests on board, AmaWaterways has space for luxurious amenities. Relax with a massage after a day of exploring, stay in shape with our fitness room and watch castles go by while enjoying a cocktail and taking a dip in our sun deck pool with a swim-up bar. Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or contemporary piano favorites, you will enjoy an eclectic schedule of onboard entertainment every night.
More STAYING IN TOUCH
While on your cruise, you’ll want to share all the pictures you take of everything you see and do. And, you also want to stay in touch with your friends and family back home. That’s why AmaWaterways provides free internet access and Wi-Fi when you’re aboard. Your stateroom also has a computer that you can use in case you didn’t bring your mobile device, or just want to sit down at a desk to surf the web.
More INNOVATION
AmaWaterways has always been inspired by a vision of innovation. Among other things, AmaWaterways was the first to offer twin-balcony (a French balcony and outside balcony) staterooms, include a specialty restaurant, carry a fleet of bicycles on board and offer a broad selection of tours. Our ships are uniquely designed to minimize the impact of water levels on the river, featuring low drafts for when there isn’t enough water, and specially engineered wheelhouses for when there is too much water.
More CRUISE OPTIONS
AmaWaterways offers unique itineraries that let travelers delve even deeper in to the rich history and culture of Europe. Our Wine Cruises are the perfect way to add an epicurean dimension to your journey, with bonus wine-related excursions and even a wine expert on board. Or, you can get into the holiday spirit like never before on one of AmaWaterways’ Christmas Markets cruises.
AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by three families, but our river cruise story began well before that. President Rudi Schreiner was born in Vienna, at the heart of the Danube. His love of design drew him to architecture, but his even greater love of travel drew him to places far and wide. In 1975, he traveled to South America for a journalism assignment on the Amazon. It was here that he designed his first ship, using what he could find to build a raft that would take him up and down the river during the next 7 months. Soon thereafter he started working in travel, creating unique tour experiences in Europe.
A Turning Point
When the Rhine-Main-Danube canal was built in 1992, Rudi realized the potential for touring as many as 13 European countries by river. He started the North American operations for many of today’s major river cruise companies, developing itineraries and ships that would become the templates for what we know river cruising to be today. After years of success as a driving force in the industry, Rudi decided to start his own venture — one that would provide guests with a higher standard of luxury travel by river. That’s when he teamed up with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy to start AmaWaterways.
A Team of Pioneers
Kristin was born in Germany and brings extensive experience in travel, river cruising and customer service to the company in her role as Executive Vice President. Jimmy Murphy was a brilliant travel entrepreneur, having built Brendan Vacations, one of the most successful tour operators in the U.S. Jimmy’s son, Gary, who also played a major part at Brendan, is now Vice President of Sales at AmaWaterways. Together with Rudi, a true team of pioneers emerged.
The Story Continues
Since 2002, AmaWaterways has offered unforgettable river cruises aboard award-winning ships sailing legendary rivers to the heart of Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa.
Family-owned and operated, we pride ourselves on our passion for river cruising, the unparalleled service of our staff and crew, our exquisite La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs dining, and our innovations, which range from staterooms with unique “twin balconies” to included shore excursions featuring active biking and hiking options. Our most recent innovation, the extraordinary AmaMagna, debuted on the Danube River in May 2019 with over 50% suite accommodations, four unique dining venues, an Exclusive Concierge Golf Program and groundbreaking Water Sports Platform, among several other innovations.
With the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA, AmaWaterways has received countless honors and accolades including Town & Country River Cruise Awards as “Best Overall,” “Best for Food,” “Best for Onboard Activities” and “Best for On-Shore Activities,” as well as 2017 AFAR and Recommend magazine Reader’s Choice Awards for “Best River Cruise Line.”
PASSPORTS: Passports are mandatory for all guests for international travel, and must be valid at least six (6) months beyond travel dates.
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By downloading this ebook, you consent to the collection and use of your email address by us for future promotional emails that deal with promotions and specials we are offering. Any promotional e-mails we send will have an “Unsubscribe” option.