Be warmly welcomed aboard stunning river cruise ships offering the luxury of space, breathtaking views, innovations such as view-enhancing twin balconies and generous amenities including fine dining at every meal and a daily complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hour. With AmaWaterways, the incredible destinations you visit along the river are second only to the exquisite cuisine, unparalleled personalization and pampering you receive as an esteemed member of the AmaWaterways family.

Local Culinary Immersion Designed to Impress

As the very first river cruise inducted in the prestigious La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary society, AmaWaterways is proud to bring the taste of each country to your plate at every meal. For years, the onboard culinary team has sourced all their fresh produce, herbs and freshwater fish from local farmers, many of whose families have been cultivating the soil or reeling in the daily catch along the banks of the river for generations. On the Danube, for example, you will savor juicy Styrian apples sourced from the Ulz Family orchard in Austria in autumn. Through a shared commitment to sustainability, family and personal connection, AmaWaterways proudly supports many local farms, guaranteeing fresh and flavorful ingredients while reducing the distance each item travels to their ships.

The same attention is paid to the high-quality ingredients prepared at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, available on more than 20 ships in Europe. This complimentary experience, shared with every guest during one special evening of their cruise, invites you to indulge in a mouthwatering multi-course tasting menu, surrounded by an intimate group of travelers and presented with finesse – a true highlight of the culinary journey. 

Award-Winning Active Adventures Offer Unique Perspectives

Guests who appreciate exploring the world on two wheels or from a bird’s-eye view experience many “wow” moments on included biking and hiking excursions, available across a majority of AmaWaterways’ European river cruise itineraries. On select Danube River itineraries, pedal through the lovely Danube Valley and to Germany’s gleaming Roman-inspired Walhalla Monument, a hall of fame that honors distinguished figures throughout history from Albert Einstein to Johanne Brahms. Or be among the first to embark on a new-for-2025 hike through the famed Vienna Woods, the inspiration for a waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1868, on AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube itinerary. While cruising the Rhine River, hike through the vineyards of Rüdesheim or along Heidelberg’s historic Philosopher’s Path. You can also pedal through the heart of the Alsace while your ship is docked in Strasbourg, taking in such highlights as the Parc de l’Orangerie and the Strasbourg Cathedral. 

All of AmaWaterways’ European river cruise ships outside of Portugal also feature a host-led Wellness Program included in your cruise fare with small group fitness classes offered as early as sunrise and throughout the day. Stretch on the Sun Deck when weather permits, participate in core strengthening and dance classes or stride the walking track alongside a friendly and enthusiastic Wellness Host. 

A 2024 award from Forbes recognizing AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna as the “Best for Active Cruisers” is just the cherry on top to a luxurious Danube River flagship that includes all the afore-mentioned opportunities and amenities, plus an expanded wellness studio with outside spin bikes and a full-sized pickleball court. 

Exclusive Experiences that Amaze

In addition to award-winning ships with some exclusive amenities, AmaWaterways offers a handful of specially curated experiences across several itineraries that are available exclusively to their guests, with many taking place on the Danube and Rhine rivers. During cruises that embark or disembark in Vilshofen, Germany, the company’s longstanding relationship with the town is celebrated at an authentic Oktoberfest, complete with fresh-baked pretzels and Bavarian beer. Guests are invited to participate in traditional dance with a local band dressed in dirndls and lederhosen playing German folk music. The mayor of Vilshofen himself often attends, as does the local beer queen. In addition to offering a memorable experience, this event helps preserve local traditions, underscoring the line’s commitment to sustainability.

On Rhine River sailings that dock in Lahnstein, Germany, guests are invited on a private tour of Burg Lahneck, a medieval fortress founded in the 13th century. Many guests who have had the fortune of visiting in the evening have an unforgettable moment as the stone halls are illuminated solely by candlelight, providing a spooky ambience as their guide regales them with the tales of the Knights Templar and other legends associated with the castle. 

The Real “Wow” Factor: AmaWaterways’ People

AmaWaterways’ extraordinary Cruise Managers and crew continuously go above and beyond to enhance the river cruise experience, surprising and delighting guests with thoughtful details, getting to know you personally and anticipating your needs before you ever think to ask. From greeting you in the morning by name to remembering your preference for red wine to surprising you by purchasing your favorite hot sauce on shore, these warm and welcoming individuals are often responsible for guests’ favorite memories during their river cruise. They ensure you feel like royalty, even assisting with special occasions, such as anniversaries, vow renewals and baby gender reveals. It should come as no surprise that AmaWaterways has more returning guests than any other river cruise line – a testament to the passion and unrivaled service of their Cruise Managers and crew.

First-time river cruiser Julie W. highlighted this level of service on her recent Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps river cruise with AmaWaterways: “Starting in the charming streets of Amsterdam and winding our way through the breathtaking landscapes of Germany, France and Switzerland, to the unforgettable finale in Lake Como – every moment was pure magic. It’s no exaggeration to say there are no words to fully capture how fabulous the trip was, not only for the destinations and experiences but also for the wonderful group of people we were privileged to meet along the way. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, for curating such an extraordinary adventure and for being the best host we could have ever asked for.”

Seamless Travel Planning

AmaWaterways makes travel planning easy with the convenience of reserving your cruise, flights and even pre- and post-cruise land packages all in one step. Reserving flights through AmaAir saves you time searching for the best fares. In addition, AmaAir coordinates the most direct route to your destination within your budget and has established contacts within each airline to swiftly handle any unforeseen events. For guests following AmaWaterways’ scheduled itineraries, transfers are also included with the purchase of AmaAir, which loyal guest Pam R. insinuates adds peace of mind: “I book my airfare through AmaWaterways and because of that, I feel that as soon as I get checked in at my departing airport in the US, I am in your hands. I have zero worries and can relax and begin my vacation at that very moment.”

Should you wish to extend your vacation, AmaWaterways also offers incredible optional land packages before and after your river cruise. Whether you wish to rest and recover from flights or pamper yourself before returning home, you’ll find no better respite than the trusted, 4- and 5-star hotels AmaWaterways has carefully selected for you, each centrally located near the destination’s major sights. AmaWaterways’ land packages include transfers between your hotel and river cruise ship, portage service and daily breakfast at the hotel. In addition, fascinating guided city tours and excursions are included. Best of all, a friendly and knowledgeable Cruise Manager will also accompany you throughout every step of your river cruise and land journey, offering you great travel tips and even greater peace of mind.

Space on board AmaWaterways’ beautiful river cruise ships is filling fast for 2025 – start planning today!