AmaWaterways masterfully delivers experiences that all can enjoy, no matter what ages, interests or mobility levels. Celebrating 20 years in operation, the innovative river cruise company boasts beautiful ships plying the waterways of Europe, Asia, Africa and soon, Latin America.
When we think about AmaWaterways, the first thing that comes to mind is two of the company’s founders, Kristin Karst and Rudi Schreiner, known as The Godfather of River Cruising. The German-Austrian husband and wife are committed to at least two principles: 1) delivering exceptional river cruise experiences; and 2) always under-promising and over-delivering. The latter goes a long way in explaining why you seldom – if ever – hear anything except praise for AmaWaterways. That praise starts with the company’s crew and office staff and works its way up to travel agents and end consumers, people like us who cruise on AmaWaterways.
In the decade-plus that we’ve operated this site, we can’t recall a single complaint about AmaWaterways, which is remarkable when you consider that the company operates more than two dozen ships on three continents. We believe part of the reason for this is what we just mentioned, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. We encourage you to spend a few minutes to watch the video below, because it encapsulates the mission and the feeling of AmaWaterways.
In Southeast Asia, AmaWaterways sails Vietnam & Cambodia’s Mekong River. In Africa, the company operates the 28-passenger Zambezi Queen (pictured) sailing the Chobe River. In Egypt, AmaDahlia operates Nile River Cruises and will soon be joined by a second ship AmaLilia, in 2024. AmaWaterways will begin cruising in Latin America on a new ship, AmaMagdelana.
In Europe, AmaWaterways offers more than two dozen itineraries along the Rhine, Moselle, Danube, Main, Seine, Saône, Rhône, Dutch and Belgian Waterways, Dordogne and Garonne, and the Douro. On our bucket list: the Seven Rivers Journeys, sailing seven rivers through 14 counties. the ultimate European river cruise.
I am currently midway on a voyage from Amsterdam to Budapest on AmaWaterways’ 164-guest AmaSonata. The duration of the cruise, spanning 14 nights/15 days, is
It could just be AmaWaterways’ most aspirational itinerary: a cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest, covering three rivers, five countries and spanning 15 days. Welcome to
I have lived a very privileged life when it comes to travel. I’ve been on 19 cruises and I’m only 21 years old. I have traveled many
After a much-welcomed thunderstorm last night, we stepped off AmaPrima this morning in Vilshofen, Germany, ending five days on board AmaWaterways‘ newest vessel and temperatures
Do you enjoy bicycling and seeing new places? If so, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better mix than bicycling in Europe during your river cruise. I did just that, traveling with my 19-year-old son on a “bikes and boats” trip with AmaWaterways and Backroads. As regular readers of River Cruise Advisor know, AmaWaterways is a multi-awarded river cruise company. Not as well known among RCA’s readers, Backroads bills itself as the world’s #1 active travel company. The combination of cycling and river cruising was a match made in heaven, and a perfect way to travel for this father and son duo.
This week on Avid Travel With Britton Frost we will revisit my time aboard AmaMagna, speaking mostly to the public spaces on the ship such as multiple dining venues, the libraries, juice bar, and more.
Headquartered in Calabasas, CA, AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, a husband-and-wife team with much river cruise line experience, and the late Jimmy Murphy, founder of Brendan Worldwide Vacations. So, what sets the line apart? It’s highly inclusive, strikes a balance on included beverages, has dedicated wellness hosts, and so much more.
Is this river cruising’s world cruise equivalent? In June 2023, AmaWaterways will offer a 46-night exploration of Europe that sails through 14 countries on seven rivers.
Because of the lack of space on the rivers, it means that river cruise companies may have to give up certain amenities to make room for guests onboard – but that’s not always the case.
Family-owned and operated, AmaWaterways has been a passion project for its founders since its start in 2002. President Rudi Schreiner designed his first ship back in 1975 while sailing the Amazon for seven months. Since the completion of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal in 1992, Rudi has been a driving force for river cruise travel—and for these efforts has been recognized as the “Most Innovative Cruise Executive” and has been presented the prestigious “Lifetime Achievement Award” by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
Executive Vice President, Co-Founder and Co-Owner Kristin Karst brings extensive experience in luxury travel, river cruising and customer service to AmaWaterways. Rudi and Kristin partnered with Jimmy Murphy, a brilliant travel entrepreneur who built Brendan Vacations. His son Gary now carries on his father’s tradition in his role as Vice President of Sales. These families came together to create the premiere travel experience for AmaWaterways’ guests.
The company now boasts a fleet of 25 modern river cruise ships operating in Europe: AmaCello (2008), AmaDante (2008), AmaLyra (2009), AmaDolce (2009), AmaBella ( 2010), AmaVerde(2011) and AmaCerto (2012).
In 2013, AmaWaterways launched the AmaVida to operate on Portugal’s Douro River, as well as AmaPrima in Europe, followed by AmaReina and AmaSonata in 2014.
Be sure to check out 12 Things To Like About The New AmaPrima.
In 2015, the company introduced AmaSerena and AmaVenita, and in 2016, the company welcomed AmaStella and AmaViola.
2017 marked the arrival of AmaWaterways’ 20th ship with the new AmaKristina, as well as the company’s 15-year anniversary.
In 2018, the company welcomes the AmaLea, sister ship to AmaKristina; and then in 2019, the company introduced a new Rhine River ship, AmaMora, sister ship to AmaLea, and on the Douro River, AmaWaterways debuted the 102-passenger AmaDouro. Also in 2019, AmaWaterways unveiled its biggest ship ever with the AmaMagna, representing a game-changing new design elevating modern luxury even further.
See 6 Types Of Travelers Who Are Perfect For AmaMagna, Are You One Of Them?
More recently AmaWaterways has launched AmaSiena, AmaLucia and AmaDahlia, which operates in Egypt on Nile River Cruises. The company will add a second ship on the Nile, AmaLilia, in 2024 as well as a new ship in Colombia, AmaMagdelana.
AmaWaterways offers cruises along Europe’s Rhine, Moselle, Danube, Main, Seine, Saône, Rhône, Dutch and Belgian Waterways, Dordogne and Garonne, and the Douro; Southeast Asia’s Mekong river, Africa’s Chobe and Nile rivers and soon Latin America.
As a family-owned and operated company dedicated solely to river cruising, AmaWaterways’ executives focus all of their time and effort on perfecting the art of delivering the quintessential river cruise experience for their guests. This has led to award-winning ships inspired by luxury yachts and designed specifically to maximize every aspect of the guest experience.
Innovative stateroom design features unique twin balconies with both a French balcony and outside balcony, so guests can enjoy the views however they wish. There are also staterooms with connecting rooms to accommodate more than two guests for families and groups who wish to travel together. Other amenities include a variety of dining venues, sun deck walking track and heated pool with swim-up bar, well-equipped fitness room and a fleet of onboard bicycles (for onshore exploration), as well as massage and hair salon.
Guests give AmaWaterways’ cuisine rave reviews. All AmaWaterways’ ships in Europe are members of the prestigious La Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international gastronomic society dedicated to fine cuisine. AmaWaterways’ culinary team crafts menus with the finest and freshest local ingredients. Selections change daily, featuring locally-inspired gourmet cuisine and traditional favorites.
AmaWaterways offers a variety of dining venues – at no additional charge – including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant. Guests watch as the chef prepares a true tasting menu with three appetizers, a champagne sorbet intermezzo, three main courses and three decadent desserts—all paired with carefully hand-selected wines reflective of the places visited.
Guests can enjoy unlimited complimentary wines from Europe’s great wine regions, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board, as well as sparking wine during breakfast.
AmaWaterways has maximized its guest stateroom views with not one, but two private balconies – a French balcony and a full outside balcony.
Every stateroom on AmaWaterways has an Entertainment-on-Demand center, featuring complimentary high-speed Internet access via a flat screen monitor featuring movies, news, sports and satellite TV, as well as a large selection of music channels.
Guests can start the day off sipping complimentary sparkling wine, coffee, tea and fresh juice at breakfast. For lunch and dinner, indulge in fine wines distinctive of the regions visited, beer and soft drinks, and be treated to a Sip & Sail daily cocktail hour.
AmaWaterways elegantly appointed spacious stateroom and suite appointments include white-on-white plush bedding, terry bathrobes and slippers, high-quality bath and body products and bottled water replenished daily. Suites include added enhancements, such as larger sitting areas and expansive bathrooms with both a shower and bathtub. On some twin-balcony ships, there are staterooms with connecting doors, as well as triple accommodations, making river cruising more convenient for friends and family who wish to travel together.
AmaWaterways recognizes every traveler is unique, so the company has carefully curated a menu of included excursions to tempt even the most seasoned travelers. Guests have the freedom and flexibility to choose from a range of guided tours.
For guests who wish to get more active, guided hiking and biking adventures take travelers well beyond the typical tourist paths, deep into the rich culture and natural beauty.
“Special Interest Tours” encourage further immersion into local culture. Authentic Belgian waffles and chocolate making in Antwerp; picnicking in the terraced vineyards of Portugal; or learning how to cook quintessential French cuisine in Provence, are just a few examples. Along with being intertwined with these deeply enriching experiences, guests can take excursions designed to showcase the renowned highlights, as well.
AmaWaterways has always been passionate about promoting health and wellness. As the first river cruise line to provide complimentary bicycles and safety helmets, AmaWaterways is always looking to further activate guest vacations and has expanded its popular guided hiking and biking tours throughout its European itineraries as well as the Wellness Program. A Wellness host leads exercise classes and discussion groups with a focus on healthy eating and relaxation.
In addition, guests can keep up their exercise routine on board while soaking in the panoramic views with a jog around the track or taking a dip in the pool on the sun deck. Later, they can unwind with a massage and indulge in a variety of healthy cuisine options with menus featuring gluten-free and vegetarian choices.
AmaWaterways’ Cruise Managers are your hosts while you are traveling with them. The company hires only the very the most talented, knowledgeable and experienced in the industry. All skillfully trained and educated with years of experience means you can be assured exceptional levels of professional and personalized service throughout your entire journey both on board and on shore. Customer service, attention to detail and passenger satisfaction are AmaWaterways’ hallmarks.
AmaWaterways loves providing its guests with the best travel experiences possible. In fact, “Ama” is derived from the Latin word for “love.” It is a concept that permeates every aspect of their river cruises, from the design of the ships to the development of itineraries to the high levels of service delivered to guests. AmaWaterways is always looking to innovate, offer exciting new destinations and add extra value for each and every guest.
If there’s a secret to AmaWaterways success, it’s the company’s distinct business style. It is an efficiently run, hands-on company, with short lines of communication to owners and executives. You’ll always get a live person answering the phone during business hours, never a recording. Throughout its years of exponential growth, AmaWaterways has maintained a warm and family type atmosphere in the company.
Do the current flight delays at U.S. airports cause you concern about missing your river cruise? We always advise spending at least one night (two or three are better) before your embarkation in the city where your river cruise departs. At the moment, we would be inclined to avoid Newark, but things could resolve there quickly.
Summer in Europe often gets dismissed as too hectic – but that impression comes from the crowded coastlines, not the tranquil riverways that wind through
My flight home was a nightmare. Yours doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips for how to navigate the challenging aspects of air travel while U.S. airports struggle to keep planes flying.
We recently asked our Facebook group: Is a river cruise balcony stateroom your preference, or do you prefer the savings of standard staterooms? See their responses.
If you’re looking for a combination of significant savings, meaningful onboard perks and the chance to experience some of Europe’s most iconic rivers in comfort and style, it’s hard to find an offer more compelling right now.
Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has introduced a brand new cruise through Belgium and the Netherlands taking in striking landscapes, remarkable architecture and the unique traditions of these two countries.
Below you’ll find some videos that we produced during our savings on AmaWaterways.
15 Responses
I am a widow and waiting for a friend to travel with from Paris to Normandy in the future. I am interested in about a week with extra time in Paris but don’t know what amount to budget for. I know about Viking but they are a little too pricey. Maybe you are too but I saw a reasonable cruise in AAA Living Magazine and thought I would inquire. I am 75 and mobile but not up to long hikes.
I swim every day so I would choose a river cruise that has a pool. Can you send me a list of cruises where the boat has a pool and send me details of how long and deep the pools are. Thanks
Please send me a list of your cruises where the boat has a swimming pool as I swim everyday, and supply detail on how large and deep your pools are
The staff that work at Ama are the gold standard for the riverboat cruise industry. Every team member on board works tirelessly to make the travel experience top notch in every way. Customer service is the feature that sets Ama apart from the others, each and every time we travel with them. What’s more, the culture of caring begins at the top as I have experienced first hand when I had the chance to interact with the President, Rudi Shreiner. Bravo, Ama.
I just returned a week ago from a 9 day water cruise on the AmaDara, up the Mekong river. What an amazing experience. The ship tours were well organized and food on board was outstanding. I would definitely use them again.
Just completed their Tulip cruise. Hard to imagine anyone finding fault with this company. Everyone on board was exceptionally nice. The food was excellent. And the venues great. Really a pretty nice experience.
Very exciting news. I’m an avid cyclist and looking forward to pedaling along the rivers.
The descriptions by River Cruise Advisor of
the various AMA ships are very appealing. Those of you who enjoy
bicycling may be interested to know that Backroads is planning a series of
trips using AMA river ships as floating hotels. This year, the only Backroads
AMA offering is along the Danube. But starting in 2016, Backroads plans AMA
trips on the Seine, Rhone, Rhine and Duero, as well as the Danube. Since
my wife and I recently cycled the entire length of the Danube (all the way to
the Black Sea), another trip along the Danube doesn’t interest us. But,
thanks in large part to RCA’s report on the AMA ships, we are planning to take
one of the Backroads AMA Rhine cruise bicycle trips next year.
I am having real problems with AmaWaterways. I left a fleece at Munich Airport which has been handed in. Munich airport will not post it to me, but have given me collection details. So it just needs picking up by AmaWaterways and sending to me. I have asked Fay McCormack in customer services for their help as they visit Munich airport often to pick up passengers flying in. It has been 3 months and they have not been able to arrange collection of the fleece. On the 12th June they said you would be in touch in August. On the 11th August they said they would be in touch by the end of August. On the 28th August they said they hoped you would be in touch in the next few days and nothing happens. It is a semi-expensive item of clothing, but more importantly it has sentimental value
I really find it hard to believe that no one has been to Munich Airport and has had a chance to collect
the lost property item over these months knowing that the cruise extensions involve Munich on a regular basis.
Your experience with the suite sounds just like Viking’s suites. No extra perks!!! Your room is bigger and all the extra you paid for it simply is for size. We too have traveled Uniworld and you get a lot more with the extra expense of the suites, and by the way they are beautiful!! As you know Uniworld went All inclusive this season. That means All !!!! Not sure about some of the others, but I don’t think Viking ever will.
Recently returned from a river cruise on the river Garonne. We were traveling in your vehicle. http://djanga.ru/2013/11/garonna-647km/ We loved it! Provence charming, small wineries, delicious food and wine, friendly people! And it is not expensive, will definitely return to this land!
By way of contrast to the “d.k.pickens” post, we had a marvelous time with AMA Waterways. Did the Tulip Time cruise and everything was spot on wonderful. We were on the AmaDolce and are going again in about 7 weeks for the Rivers & Castles cruise. We had a Violin Deck cabin up front. Wonderful. Excellent service, food, excursions, and staff.
We just traveled on the Amalegro Budapest to Prague and everything was beyond compare. We had highest level category but not a suite. A category French balcony highest deck and service was impeccable.
Arles to Lyon April 12th-19th 2012. DO NOT PAY FOR THE SUITE! not worth the money. there is no extra service added on to the suite. nothing. nada. we had a junior suite at uniwolrd with free room service, free appetizers, and free laundry. we had an extra dinner options with ‘selected’ guests – all suite guests.
i was just told that i am not allowed to do my own laundry – i HAVE to pay. and of course – there is no laundromat.i do not feel comfortbale of somebody else doing my own laundry. this just adds on to the cost of the suite ::: – after traveling for the last 10 days we do have quite a lot of dirty laundry. (counting on a laundromat)
today at lunch we never get a waiter’s attention until we complained after 20 min. waiting. until then we had not even water on the table and no knowledge of a ‘menu’ at all. we were under the impression that the lunch consisted of the salad bar that was available freely.
there is no room to sit at the diner time. the dinner affair is a mess hall atmosphere and people line up before the restaurant opens up for the best seats/tables.then it’s so loud that the feeling of a peacedul vacation disappears withihn 10 min and you get a headache…last night we couldn’t find a table – until the end of the room – where it was so tight that my husband couldn’t sit there at all – we had to move the table to ‘add’ on to the other table and change the chairs. we felt very uncomfortable. so much so that my husband is refusing to go to dinner at all …