Why Amawaterways should be your next cruise

River cruising tends to appeal to travellers who value proximity over pace. Instead of moving quickly between destinations, the journey unfolds gradually, with towns, landscapes and cities appearing just beyond the riverbank. Days are structured, but unhurried, leaving room to explore without the pressure of constant transit.

AmaWaterways operates within this slower style of travel, offering river itineraries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. With smaller ships and centrally located ports, the experience focuses on spending more time in fewer places, rather than trying to see everything at once. For travellers interested in a more measured way to explore, particularly those new to river cruising, it offers a useful entry point into this style of travel.

A smaller ship, a calmer ride

One of the biggest differences first-time river cruisers notice is scale. Depending on the ship, AmaWaterways’ river vessels typically carry about 70 to 200 guests, creating a more intimate onboard experience than large ocean liners. River cruising also means you are not dealing with large waves, which can be reassuring if you are prone to seasickness. 

On board, the experience is designed to feel comfortable rather than formal. Instead of black-tie evenings, the tone is relaxed, with the focus on attentive service and the ease of having your hotel move with you.

Where AmaWaterways sails

AmaWaterways operates throughout much of Europe and also offers itineraries in Egypt, southern Africa and along the Mekong River in Asia. That range makes it easy to match a cruise to your interests, whether that is historic cities, food and wine, or nature-forward destinations.

If you are drawn to springtime colour, the seven-night Tulip Time itinerary is a standout. It runs seasonally from the beginning of March to early May and visits Belgium and the Netherlands, including time to see the tulips at Keukenhof Gardens. 

AmaWaterways also offers options that begin and end in Amsterdam, including sailings that combine rivers, canals and lakes across Holland and Belgium. With Amsterdam as the bookend, many travellers pair the cruise with time in the city to explore museums and neighbourhoods before or after they sail. 

Excursions are part of the itinerary

One of the easiest budgeting wins with many AmaWaterways cruises is that shore excursions are included. At each port, the line typically offers three or four options designed for different activity levels.

Choices can include gentler walking routes that aim to minimize stairs and steep hills, standard walking tours that may involve some climbing or short coach transfers, and more active options such as hiking and biking. For hikes, sturdy, comfortable running shoes are usually sufficient, though some sights, such as castles, may require walking uphill. 

Flexibility if you change your mind

River cruising is social, and plans can shift once you meet people on board. AmaWaterways builds in flexibility so travellers can switch excursions. Daily updates typically happen during cocktail hour, when details for the next day are shared, and excursion options are reviewed. If you decide to change your selection, you can speak with the cruise manager. 

Cycling-friendly sailing

If you like exploring on two wheels, AmaWaterways is particularly cycle-friendly in Europe. Ships carry bikes and offer organized biking excursions. One example highlighted in the onboard programme is a ride that includes a visit to Castle De Haar in the Netherlands, with time to tour the castle and grounds. 

Meals, drinks and the pace of evenings onboard

Dining is included on board, with breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening snacks offered in the main dining room. Not every meal is buffet-style; guests can expect à la carte options, with menus changing nightly. AmaWaterways also features a specialty dining experience with a tasting menu. 

Lunch and dinner include wine, beer, and soft drinks, and there is a cocktail hour before dinner with complimentary cocktails in the lounge. Travellers who bring a bottle of wine to dinner do not pay corkage fees, which can be a nice perk if you pick up a local bottle during the day. 

Evenings are typically low-key but not quiet. Entertainment may include a pianist and a DJ in the lounge, along with local performances such as dancers or string quartets. 

Extend your trip with land packages

If you are travelling far, it can be worth adding a few days on either end. AmaWaterways offers many itineraries that can be extended with land packages that include hotel stays, breakfast, and tours, plus transfers to the ship. Cruise managers may accompany guests on these land portions, which can provide reassurance when navigating a new destination.

Plan your AmaWaterways Cruise

Ready to start planning? Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to explore AmaWaterways itineraries and take advantage of available CAA Member benefits.