There’s something magical about waking up in a new European city each morning, stepping off your ship directly into cobblestone town squares, and exploring centuries-old castles before returning to your floating boutique hotel. This is the promise of river cruising with AmaWaterways—an intimate, immersive way to experience Europe’s most enchanting destinations without the hassle of constant packing, airport transfers, or navigating foreign roads.
Why River Cruising? Why AmaWaterways?
River cruising offers a completely different experience than ocean cruising. Instead of days at sea, you wake up to new destinations daily. Instead of massive ships with thousands of passengers, you travel with just 150 or fewer guests. And instead of docking miles from city centers, your ship glides right into the heart of historic towns and cities.
AmaWaterways has perfected this experience, consistently ranking as one of the world’s best river cruise lines. Family-owned and operated, AmaWaterways brings a personal touch to every journey, with innovative ships, exceptional cuisine, and a commitment to active exploration that sets them apart from competitors.
The Fleet: Innovation on Every Deck
AmaWaterways operates a fleet of modern, elegantly designed ships featuring thoughtful amenities you won’t find on other river cruise lines:
Twin Balconies: Most staterooms feature both a French balcony and a full step-out balcony—giving you the best of both worlds. Enjoy unobstructed views through floor-to-ceiling windows or step outside to feel the breeze as you cruise past vineyard-covered hillsides.
Spacious Staterooms: River cruise cabins are notoriously small, but AmaWaterways bucks that trend with some of the most spacious accommodations on European rivers. Expect premium bedding, entertainment systems, marble bathrooms, and ample storage.
Wellness Features: Many ships include heated pools with swim-up bars, fitness centers, massage and hair salons, and even onboard bicycles for independent exploration.
Innovative Design: The sun deck features a walking track, comfortable loungers, and giant chess sets. The main lounge serves as an elegant gathering space for entertainment and enrichment programs.
Culinary Excellence: Farm-to-Table on the Rivers
AmaWaterways takes dining seriously, partnering with renowned Austrian chef Manfred Lassahn and wine expert Anthony Giglio to create menus that celebrate regional cuisine:
The Main Restaurant: Enjoy regionally-inspired dishes with locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the flavors of each destination. Multiple entrée choices at every meal ensure there’s something for every palate.
The Chef’s Table: An intimate specialty restaurant featuring multi-course tasting menus with wine pairings—all complimentary, with no additional charge.
Al Fresco Dining: Weather permitting, dine outdoors while watching the scenery drift by.
Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour: Complimentary wine, beer, and spirits flow freely during the daily cocktail hour and with meals.
Special Dietary Accommodations: AmaWaterways excels at accommodating dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences with advance notice.
Active Exploration: Your Way
What truly distinguishes AmaWaterways is their commitment to active, immersive experiences. Every port offers multiple ways to explore:
Included Excursions: At least one guided tour is included in each port, led by knowledgeable local guides who bring history and culture to life.
Active Options: Join guided bike tours through countryside villages, hike to hilltop castles, or participate in exclusive active adventures designed for various fitness levels.
Exclusive Experiences: AmaWaterways arranges special access to venues not typically open to tourists—private concerts in historic churches, after-hours museum visits, and meetings with local artisans.
Wellness Activities: Start your day with sunrise yoga on the sun deck, join a guided morning walk, or participate in onboard wellness programs.
Independent Exploration: Borrow a complimentary bicycle to explore at your own pace, or use detailed port information to craft your own adventures.
The choice is always yours—be as active or relaxed as you desire.
Unforgettable Itineraries Across Europe & Beyond
AmaWaterways sails the world’s most scenic waterways:
The Danube: Cruise through the heart of Europe from Germany to the Black Sea, visiting Vienna, Budapest, and charming medieval towns along the way.
The Rhine: Discover castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages in Germany, France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
The Rhône & Saône: Experience the culinary and wine regions of France’s Provence and Burgundy.
The Douro: Explore Portugal’s stunning wine country with terraced vineyards cascading to the river’s edge.
The Moselle: Meander through one of Europe’s most romantic wine regions.
The Seine: Journey from Paris to Normandy, exploring French countryside and D-Day beaches.
The Mekong: Venture beyond Europe to experience Southeast Asia’s culture and history.
Christmas Markets: Special seasonal sailings take you to Europe’s most enchanting holiday markets.
Many itineraries can be combined or extended with pre- and post-cruise land programs for a more comprehensive European adventure.
The AmaWaterways Difference
Size Matters: With a maximum of 150 guests (and often fewer), you’ll enjoy personalized service, make genuine connections with fellow travelers, and never feel like you’re in a crowd.
English-Speaking Crews: Unlike some river cruise lines, AmaWaterways features English-speaking crew members throughout the ship, making communication effortless.
Complimentary WiFi: Stay connected with reliable, complimentary internet throughout the ship.
No Nickel-and-Diming: Wine, beer, and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and during the daily cocktail hour. Shore excursions in every port are included. No surprise charges or upcharges.
Sustainability Commitment: AmaWaterways invests in environmentally friendly ship design and operations, including hybrid propulsion systems on newer vessels.
Who Is River Cruising For?
River cruising appeals to travelers who:
- Want to see multiple destinations without constant packing and unpacking
- Prefer smaller, intimate ship experiences over mega-cruise vessels
- Value cultural immersion and authentic local experiences
- Appreciate the convenience of waking up in city centers
- Enjoy scenic cruising through countryside and historic regions
- Seek a relaxed pace with opportunities for active exploration
- Want an all-inclusive experience without constant additional charges
River cruising is particularly popular with couples, solo travelers, and multi-generational family groups seeking quality time together.
Why Book AmaWaterways with Chasing Camels Through FORA?
Choosing the right river cruise itinerary, ship, and stateroom category requires insider knowledge. As your dedicated travel advisor with FORA, I provide:
- Expert guidance on selecting itineraries that match your interests and travel style
- Advice on optimal stateroom categories and locations
- Access to exclusive FORA amenities and promotional offers
- Assistance with air arrangements and pre/post-cruise extensions
- Recommendations for active vs. classic excursion options
- Complete support from booking through your return home
- Insider tips to maximize your river cruise experience
Unpack Once, Explore Endlessly
Europe’s most captivating destinations are calling—answer from the comfort of your floating boutique hotel. River cruising with AmaWaterways offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion, active exploration, and relaxed luxury. No airports, no rental cars, no hotel check-ins—just you, extraordinary destinations, and the gentle rhythm of the river.
Discover AmaWaterways Itineraries & Reserve Your River Cruise →
From the grand cities of the Danube to the wine regions of the Rhine, from the romance of the Seine to the terraced vineyards of the Douro, your perfect river cruise awaits. Let’s chart your course together.
Connect with Heidi at Chasing Camels to start planning your AmaWaterways adventure—where every bend in the river reveals something wonderful.