AmaWaterways announced it has launched a wellness program onboard AmaLyra’s Paris & Normandy sailings. The program – led by “Sports Scientist” Selina Wank features four to six classes daily, including morning stretches, jogging, yoga, cardio and core strengthening and circuit training. Activities will be complemented by discussion groups with a focus on healthy eating and relaxation techniques.

“Being active and healthy while traveling is something that is personally, so important to me, and as a company, AmaWaterways has been embracing active travel for more than a decade,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “We believe guests are looking to take steps to ensure that their vacation time is an extension of their wellness-oriented lifestyles, and we are so happy to continue introducing new ways for travelers to remain healthy while on board our ships. It’s important for us to continue to be innovative in this space and give our guests exactly what they’re looking for during their time on board. Our wellness program has been a huge success, and is something we are very excited about continuing.”

AmaWaterways began focusing on wellness in 2006, becoming the first to add 25 bicycles onboard each European ship.  

AmaWaterways has also expanded its biking and hiking shore excursions and offers each excursion at a variation of paces to give guests options that suit their needs. Additionally, the company increased its relationship with Backroads in 2017 and now offers more than 50 active departures.

AmaWaterways incorporates healthy eating and locally-sourced ingredients into its culinary offerings. Gluten-free, low-sodium and vegetarian options are available and the company features a Hydration Station with infused detox and gemstone water.

“Wellness has now become more of a lifestyle, than just a single activity and we know the importance of sticking to a healthy regiment when on board,” said Karst. “Cuisine is such a major part of river cruising and sacrificing a few calories doesn’t need to mean sacrificing taste.  We will always look at ways to connect the pleasures of travel and cuisine and to accommodate our health-conscious guests.”

AmaWaterways expects to introduce its wellness program onboard additional ships in 2018. The company will take active travel one step further in 2019 with the debut of AmaMagna, which will feature a first in river cruising retractable water sports platform and expanded fitness and spa facilities.