If you’ve ever dreamed of floating past storybook towns, vineyard-covered hills and castle-topped cliffs without packing and unpacking or dealing with crowds, river cruising with AmaWaterways might be your sweet spot. Their intimate ships (averaging around 156 guests) sail rivers across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America, with a focus on comfort, service and thoughtful touches rather than flashy gimmicks. AmaWaterways+2AmaWaterways+2
One of the things that sets AmaWaterways apart is how much is already included: complimentary shore excursions (often with multiple activity levels), wine and beer with meals, and curated tours that can range from relaxed city walks to guided hikes, bike rides and tastings with local specialties. AmaWaterways+1 This makes river cruising especially appealing if you like knowing your costs up front and don’t want to nickel-and-dime every outing once you’re onboard.
On the ships themselves, you’ll find features designed for both relaxation and wellness: heated pools or hot tubs, fitness rooms, walking tracks and plenty of cozy indoor spaces to read, sip a coffee or watch the scenery glide by. EatSleepCruise.com+1 Many staterooms offer AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design (a French balcony plus an outside balcony), so you can enjoy fresh air and ever-changing views without leaving your room. AmaWaterways+1 Add in locally sourced cuisine and a warm, genuinely friendly crew, and the whole experience feels both easy and elevated.
For travelers over 50—especially those who prefer smaller ships, fewer crowds and destination-focused experiences—AmaWaterways can be a fabulous alternative (or complement) to big ocean cruises. You’re close to the heart of each town or city you visit, stepping off the ship into walkable centers instead of distant industrial ports. And because the ships are smaller, it’s easy to meet fellow travelers or simply enjoy a quieter, more relaxed vibe.
If you’re curious about river cruising or want help choosing the right itinerary—Danube? Rhine? Douro? Mekong?—I’d love to help you match the right ship and sailing to your travel style, pace and budget.
👉 Learn more and start planning your AmaWaterways river cruise here:
AmaWaterways River Cruises with Heidi Dent
Bring your river-cruise daydreams. I’ll help turn them into a boarding pass.
