Why AmaWaterways Is the Perfect Choice for Your River Cruise

Daydreaming about days spent sipping wine as you glide along some of the world's most famous waterways? Whether you're drawn to the Seine River or the legendary Danube River, if a river cruise vacation is next on your travel bucket list, there's no better way to sail than with the cream of the crop -  AmaWaterways.

In Latin, Ama means 'love', and we can guarantee you'll fall head over heels for everything their itineraries offer. With over two decades of experience, AmaWaterways has proudly nurtured 31 ships across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America.

Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, there's no better way to river cruise than with AmaWaterways award-winning fleet:

1. Onboard luxury like no other: Amawaterways offers unparalleled service, critically acclaimed dining and spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms.
2. Itineraries that truly understand the culture: Ama offers carefully curated itineraries that champion hidden gems, historic charm and cultural experiences.
3. All-inclusive value: meals, transport, shore excursions and wellness elements are all included in the cruise fare.
4. Culinary experiences that champion the region: Exquisite, regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients + wine pairings for each meal!
5. Personal service that goes the extra mile: Cruise managers and staff will go above and beyond to anticipate the needs of every guest.
6. Intimate ships and boutique accommodation: Spacious and easy-to-navigate layouts, ample dining areas, luxury touches and boutique service.
7. Keep your loved ones in the loop with the AmaApp: Free Wi-Fi and a custom app to share your itinerary and photos with them.
8. Wellness on the waterways: AmaWaterways' dedicated wellness spaces offer the perfect retreat for your mind and body - think small group classes, massage, pickleball and more.
9. Unique cruise themes: Cruises focusing on wine, cuisine, culture & heritage, Christmas markets and more.
10. A world-class reputation: AmaWaterways is renowned for delivering exceptional experiences, consistently earning acclaim from both travellers and industry experts across the globe.

While the ships themselves offer all the perks of a boutique, all-inclusive hotel, the real magic of this river cruising line lies in their thoughtfully curated itineraries. Combined with an onboard crew who thrive on going above and beyond to make your experience five stars, it's easy to see why so many travellers make AmaWaterways their river cruise line of choice.

There's luxury, and then there's everything AmaWaterways has done onboard their ships. Opulent but understated, lavish but never over the top, Ama ensures you've got a comfortable place to rest while allowing the destinations to be the true stars of your experience.

Some of our favourite AmaWaterways luxury features include:

• Spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms featuring marble bathrooms and even double balconies.
• A high crew-to-guest ratio ensures attentive and personalised service.
• Fine dining onboard all ships at no extra charge.
• Onboard wellness programs and facilities like heated pools and massage rooms.

Beyond these elements that speak for themselves, it's the smaller touches that will truly elevate your experience. Things like requesting special bedding or an extra firm mattress, a crew that works hard to anticipate your needs, and some of the most spacious river cruising ships on the market.

It is the perfect setting to unwind after spending a day exploring the charming towns, historic beaches, or spectacular vineyards that'll fill your itinerary.

Forget sea days. With AmaWaterways, every day is a 'see' day, ensuring you make the most of each destination. From the culinary capital of Lyon to the historic charm of Normandy or getting to the heart of the river in Vienna, every wonderful itinerary has been carefully curated to ensure guests get the best out of each destination. With a deep focus on championing the local culture, cuisine, and history, their day trips are perfect for even the most curious and discerning traveller.

Onboard AmaWaterways, virtually everything is included in your cruise fare. Think shore excursions, wine and beer with meals, Wi-Fi and wellness classes.

With no surprise charges, you can embark on an adventure and leave any stress behind. Now, don't assume this means you're limited in choice. Ama offers an incredibly diverse menu of shore excursions catering to various interests and activity levels.

Whether you'd prefer to join a gentle walking tour, up the ante with a more active tour, or hit snooze and join a sleep-in friendly excursion, trust that your small group is in the hands of a local expert.

As a proud member of both La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Tables et Auberges de France, it's no surprise that Ama's onboard chefs are experts in good food.

Guests can expect exquisite, regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Fine dining isn't complete without wine, which is why each vessel boasts onboard sommeliers and wine pairings with lunch and dinner.

Most ships feature two dining options that are included in the cruise fare:

• The Main Restaurant offers multi-course meals with menus that refresh daily to reflect local cuisine.
• The Chef's Table is an intimate speciality restaurant where patrons can watch the talented chefs prepare dinner while enjoying wine pairings.

Lucky enough to be cruising onboard AmaMagna? You can pick from four scrumptious dining venues. Talk about onboard luxury!

As a family-owned and operated cruise line, the AmaWaterways team excels at providing warm, guest-centric service from start to finish.

Nothing is too hard, and no request is too much for the friendly team, who will likely remember your name and go the extra mile to personalise your experience.

AmaWaterways' VIP guest service aims to surprise and delight everyone on board through thoughtful details, 24/7 support, personal touches and genuine advice about what you'll love in each destination.

At the heart of every team is the incredible Cruise Manager who will go above and beyond to make sure your experience is second to none.

AmaWaterways can go the extra mile for each traveller because of its high crew-to-guest ratio and spacious ships.

Typically, there are around 150 people on board, which is far less than most river cruise lines. Fewer people mean a more refined and less crowded atmosphere—perfect for those seeking a little more privacy.

While each ship has unique elements that will surprise and delight guests, a cruise with AmaWaterways guarantees spacious, easy-to-navigate layouts, ample dining areas, luxury touches, and boutique service.

Did you know AmaWaterways pioneered the twin-balcony design? This design offers guests a French balcony plus a full exterior balcony. Aka, enjoy panoramic views and fresh air without having to leave your room!

Worried about mobility? All of Ama's European ships feature elevators, making it easier to get between stateroom decks and public areas.

Each guest is invited to use the AmaCruise app. Thoughtfully designed for guests onboard an AmaWaterways cruise, the app allows you to:

• View an interactive map that follows your cruise route
• Learn about each port of call
• Find shore excursions
• Share holiday snaps with family and friends
• Access your travel documents.

If using the app isn't your style, trust that the free Wi-Fi on board will help you stay connected with the ones you love at home.

Fancy a bit of yoga? Perhaps a long travel day has your body yearning to stretch and soak in the sun-deck pool?

Whatever your wellness ritual, AmaWaterways' dedicated wellness spaces provide the perfect retreat for your mind and body. Offering everything from onboard enrichment lectures to small-group fitness classes, spa treatments, complimentary bikes, and even a full-sized pickleball court on AmaMagna, there is no shortage of wellness activities for every guest.

AmaWaterways also caters to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium diets.

Consider yourself a budding sommelier? Perhaps you go crazy for Christmas, or are keen to deep dive into history? Combine your interests with onboard luxury on one of AmaWaterways' themed cruises. Often featuring exceptional guest hosts, private events and curated shore excursions, a themed cruise may be the perfect option for travellers seeking niche experiences.

Some of our favourite AmaWaterways themed cruises focus on exploring Europe's best wine regions, visiting Christmas markets, tasting your way through regional cuisine and local markets, and even learning more about Jewish Heritage along the Danube.

Still not convinced? What if we told you that AmaWaterways is regularly awarded the 'Best River Cruise Line' by luxury travel magazines and cruise critics alike?

The company's fastidious care, customer-first ethos, world-class dining, and work to minimise environmental impact make it a true gem in the river cruising world.

Ready to fast-track your river cruise with the help of some experts? Contact your local Flight Centre travel expert in store, online or over the phone today!