Whether this is your first river cruise or your first river cruise with AmaWaterways we're sure you have questions. Below, we've put together a list of questions and answers for first-timers with AmaWaterways to give you a better picture of the unparalleled experiences you will have while cruising the storied rivers of Europe and beyond. 

What is the dress code? Do I need formal attire? 

Plan to pack casually elegant attire; and something a little dressier to wear to the Captain’s Dinner or an evening concert. Bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and one pair of dressier shoes. You may be traveling through different climates and altitudes, so layering is advisable.

Are excursions included?

Every excursion is included with your choice from up to six guided tours each day, all operated in small groups. In every city or town you visit, there is typically a sightseeing tour offered at three unique activity levels for gentle walkers, regular walkers, and active walkers, along with free time to explore the city according to your interests. The sightseeing tours can take place on foot, via motor coach, or a combination of the two. Each tour is led by a qualified, licensed English-speaking local guide or your Cruise Manager. On select excursions, there is also a "Late Starter" option for guests who wish to sleep in but do not want to miss key tour highlights. For those guests interested in exploring from an exciting new perspective, in select destinations, AmaWaterways offers guided bicycle and hiking tours. In addition to the many choices of excursions, they also offer special interest tours such as wine tastings and culinary demonstrations, offering small groups the chance to be even more immersed in local life. 

What Amenities are in the stateroom?

Stateroom and suite appointments include white-on-white plush bedding, cotton bathrobes and slippers, high-quality bath and body products, a hair dryer, and safe and water replenished daily. Suites include added enhancements, such as larger sitting areas and expansive bathrooms with both a shower and bathtub. Entertainment-On-Demand center in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet access, movies, an extensive music library, and English-language TV stations.

Which meals and beverages are included in my river cruise fare? 

Every breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your river cruise will be included on board. This includes dinner at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, all-day tapas, afternoon tea delights, and more. Every lunch and dinner includes unlimited complimentary fine wines, beer, and soft drinks. And each day you will be treated to a complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits, and soft drinks. Select itineraries, such as the Secrets of Egypt & the Nile, Enticing Douro, and Flavors of Portugal & Spain sailings, also include a select number of meals on shore. Guests reserving an optional land package will also find daily breakfast at their hotel included in the price of their package. 

Can you accommodate my food allergies or dietary restrictions?

AmaWaterways happily provides delicious alternative meals, desserts, and snacks for guests with food allergies, or who require low-sodium, gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan diets. Please let your travel advisor know of any dietary accommodations you require at the time of reservation. For severe allergies, it is also recommended to meet with a member of the Culinary Team once you embark. Although there is not a kosher kitchen on board, they can provide “kosher-friendly” meals.  

Do I need to make a reservation for the restaurants?

The Main Restaurants have plenty of seating and dinner is a single seating where table reservations are not accepted. The crew will serve you at your table and will be happy to offer you a similar choice of menu items formerly available at the buffets. Reservations for the specialty tasting menu at The Chef's Table specialty restaurant can be made once you are on board the ship. 

Are your ships wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair accessibility is very limited on the European ships. There is an elevator between the two main decks; however, it does not reach the Sun Deck or Piano Deck. Guests would be able to move around the dining room and lounge in their chairs; however, the staterooms are not able to accommodate a wheelchair, so while in your stateroom you would need to be able to move around on your own. Your chair would also need to be stored in the stateroom due to limited storage on board. Getting on and off the ship could be a challenge, as the planks are narrow and cannot accommodate a wheelchair or scooter's width. Guests would have to be able to get on and off the ship without their wheelchairs and the wheelchairs would have to be light enough to be lifted off and on the ramps. It is common to tie up to other river ships in port. When this happens you sometimes need to travel through another ship to disembark, with many ships requiring this be done from the Sun Deck, where there is only stair access.

During the excursions, a good majority of the cities visited have cobblestone walkways. This may be a challenge to maneuver with a wheelchair. The motorcoaches used as a main means of transport do not have any sort of lift and there are 4 or 5 steep steps to get on and off.

Do I need to bring a converter or adapter? 

Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you.

If you have any other questions your Direct Travel advisor is here to help!