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Writer's pictureWilliam Robison

Why AmaWaterways is a Top Choice for Luxurious and Active River Cruising (Detailed)

AmaWaterways is celebrated as a leading river cruise line, offering a luxurious and immersive way to explore some of the world's most beautiful waterways. With a focus on providing a sophisticated experience tailored to discerning travelers, AmaWaterways has become a favorite among middle-upper-class cruisers who appreciate both comfort and adventure. Renowned for its exceptional service, diverse itineraries, and a wide range of included activities, AmaWaterways offers a river cruise experience that goes beyond the ordinary.



A Premium River Cruise Experience with a Focus on Luxury and Comfort

AmaWaterways is dedicated to providing a truly luxurious cruising experience. Each ship in their fleet is designed with elegance and comfort in mind, featuring spacious staterooms with French balconies or twin balconies, allowing guests to soak in breathtaking views from the privacy of their own rooms. The onboard atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, with high-quality furnishings, tasteful décor, and amenities that elevate every journey.



Onboard, guests can enjoy multiple dining venues, including The Chef’s Table—a specialty restaurant where guests indulge in a multi-course tasting menu prepared in an open kitchen. Meals onboard highlight locally sourced ingredients, providing a culinary experience that mirrors the regions visited. Complimentary fine wines, beer, and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner, adding to the all-inclusive nature of the cruise experience.

AmaWaterways also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, bottled water, a Sip & Sail cocktail hour, and even bicycles on select ships for guided bike tours or independent exploration, making their offerings some of the most inclusive in the river cruising industry.



Itineraries That Go Beyond Europe

While AmaWaterways is well-known for its European itineraries along the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, and Rhone rivers, the company also offers exciting river cruises beyond Europe, catering to adventurous travelers looking to explore new destinations:

  • Vietnam and Cambodia: On the Mekong River, guests can explore the rich history and vibrant cultures of Southeast Asia. The itinerary includes visits to floating markets, ancient temples, and local villages, providing a deep cultural immersion.



  • Egypt: The Secrets of Egypt & the Nile cruise takes guests on a journey through ancient history, with excursions to the Great Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings, and Luxor. This 11-night itinerary includes a 7-night Nile River cruise and stays in Cairo, offering a seamless blend of adventure and luxury.

  • Africa: AmaWaterways also offers a unique river cruise and safari experience on the Chobe River in Botswana. This itinerary combines a 4-night cruise aboard the Zambezi Queen with land-based explorations in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, including safaris, a visit to Victoria Falls, and wine tastings in the Cape Winelands.

Upcoming Magdalena River Sailings in South America

In early 2025, AmaWaterways is set to launch an exciting new itinerary on the Magdalena River in Colombia, South America. This new journey will provide guests with a chance to explore Colombia's vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes. The Magdalena River cruises will offer a combination of immersive excursions, including visits to local villages, wildlife safaris, and cultural performances. These new sailings reflect AmaWaterways' commitment to innovation and expanding their offerings beyond traditional European routes, allowing guests to explore lesser-known destinations in comfort and style.



Why AmaWaterways Appeals to Active and Discerning Travelers

AmaWaterways distinguishes itself by catering to travelers who seek both luxury and active exploration. The cruise line provides a variety of included excursions in most ports, ensuring guests have the flexibility to choose experiences that suit their interests and activity levels. Unlike some cruise lines that offer only one included excursion per port, AmaWaterways often provides multiple options—whether you prefer a guided walking tour of a historic town, a wine tasting at a local vineyard, or a more active biking or hiking adventure.

Each ship is equipped with a Fitness Director, a unique feature that sets AmaWaterways apart from other river cruise lines. The Fitness Director leads onboard fitness classes, including stretching, cardio, and core strengthening, and also accompanies guests on hiking and biking excursions, ensuring a more active and engaging experience. This emphasis on wellness is complemented by the Zen Wellness Studio onboard the AmaMagna, which is equipped with a large range of fitness equipment and offers group classes, spa services, and a juice bar.



An Abundance of Excursion Options for Every Type of Traveler

AmaWaterways offers a range of included shore excursions in most ports, providing guests with the flexibility to explore each destination in their preferred style. These excursions are carefully curated to cater to different interests and activity levels:


  • Active Options: For guests who enjoy a more energetic pace, AmaWaterways provides active excursions such as guided hiking and biking tours. Examples include biking along the scenic Danube River or hiking to a medieval castle for breathtaking views.

  • Cultural and Culinary Tours: AmaWaterways also offers cultural excursions, including guided tours of historic cities, visits to local markets, and cooking classes where guests can immerse themselves in the culinary traditions of the region.

  • Special Interest Tours: For guests with specific interests, AmaWaterways provides special interest tours that focus on themes like art, music, history, and wine. These tours offer a more personalized exploration of each destination.



Exceptional Service and a Family-Owned Commitment

AmaWaterways is proud to remain a family-owned company, with its founders Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst, and Jimmy Murphy actively involved in the day-to-day operations and long-term vision of the company. This personal touch is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, from the warm hospitality of the crew to the meticulous attention to detail in every itinerary. The ownership's hands-on approach ensures that AmaWaterways remains true to its core values of exceptional service, innovation, and guest satisfaction—qualities that have earned it a loyal following among discerning travelers.

The cruise line also makes special accommodations for guests with mobility issues, offering accessible staterooms on many of their ships and providing assistance during embarkation, disembarkation, and shore excursions. While river cruising presents unique challenges for those with limited mobility, AmaWaterways is committed to making the experience as comfortable as possible for all guests.



An Ideal Choice for a Sophisticated Traveler

AmaWaterways is particularly appealing to middle-upper-class travelers who value both luxury and the opportunity for active exploration. With a focus on providing an all-encompassing cruise experience that combines comfort, culture, and adventure, AmaWaterways is perfect for those looking for a river cruise that offers more than just a journey down the river—it’s an experience of discovery and enrichment.



Why AmaWaterways Stands Out in the River Cruise Market

While other river cruise lines may be better known due to their extensive advertising campaigns, AmaWaterways distinguishes itself with its focus on delivering a high-quality experience that emphasizes both luxury and active exploration. For travelers who seek a more dynamic river cruise experience, with multiple included excursions and a variety of onboard amenities, AmaWaterways is often the preferred choice.

Recently, AmaWaterways updated its investment partnership to support its continued growth and commitment to enhancing the guest experience. This strategic move reflects their dedication to offering top-notch service and amenities while maintaining their reputation as a leading luxury river cruise line. Despite being considered a "value" brand within the luxury river cruising market, AmaWaterways provides a level of service, comfort, and variety that often exceeds expectations.



Explore the World with AmaWaterways

If you are looking for a river cruise experience that combines elegance, comfort, and a range of activities designed to enrich your journey, AmaWaterways could be the perfect choice. Whether you’re cruising aboard the spacious AmaMagna or exploring lesser-known gems along the world's rivers, AmaWaterways promises an unforgettable journey filled with memorable moments, exceptional service, and enriching experiences.


Contact us today to learn more about our exclusive offers and to start planning your next river cruise adventure with AmaWaterways. Let us help you find the perfect itinerary, choose the best stateroom, and ensure your cruise experience is everything you've dreamed of.

Explore more about AmaWaterways and the exciting journeys that await you by visiting our blog or reaching out directly for personalized recommendations and booking assistance. Your adventure with AmaWaterways starts here!

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