AMAWATERWAYS RIVER CRUISES REVIEW
A luxury river cruise line that will EXCEED your expectations in every way.
Is an AmaWaterways cruise in your plans? Book now for BEST DEALS.

AmaWaterways river cruises are the perfect
match for discriminating travelers.
Since its launch in 2002, by river cruise industry pioneer Rudi Schreiner, industry executive Kristin Karst, and the founder of Brendan Tours, James Murphy, AmaWaterways has managed to redefine the concept of river cruising. Starting with just two vessels chartered from a European-based river cruise company, Ama’s growth has been nothing short of remarkable. By 2010, they had expanded to eight ships, including the elegant AmaVerde in Europe, AmaKatarina in Russia and the impeccable AmaLotus in Vietnam. Since then, Ama has continued to add many more new ships in Europe, Southeast Asia, Egypt, Africa, and even Colombia, South America! They are very proud to operate the youngest fleet overall.

Ama's collection of deluxe ships are designed to only accommodate 28 to 162 pampered guests, and we do mean pampered. All AmaWaterways ships are fully air-conditioned and non-smoking. All staterooms and suites enjoy wonderful river views with over 82% enjoying private, dual or French balconies. We think you’ll find it so cool the first time you drop down into one of the many locks the ships pass through and are actually able to reach out and touch the locks granite walls. It’s also really neat to be able to turn off the air-conditioning during the warm Summer and Fall months, leave the balcony doors wide-open and savor the fresh breezes and fragrent aromas along the river, especially at night.

With the introduction of the AmaKristina, AmaViola, AmaStella, and the AmaLea, in the last couple of years, all AmaWaterways ships now feature multiple fine dining options as well as their new, state-of-the-art “Twin Balcony” stateroom design concept. This distinctive and revolutionary design feature, found in the newer ships offer staterooms which consists of a French Balcony for unimpeded views and fresh air, plus a separate "walk-out" balcony allowing for private, al-fresco enjoyment of your river cruise experience. You'll also find even larger cabins than the other ships in Ama’s fleet. While the standard, money saving Ama French balcony stateroom is a very spacious 170 square feet, the standard size for dual balcony staterooms on their new builds is a minumum of 210sq ft, both far bigger than other cruise lines offer. There may be no finer way to cruise the Danube and Rhine rivers than in one of these marvelously designed cabins. These exquisite luxury vessels hold a mere 162 passengers in 81 staterooms and suites, all with river views. Staterooms average a robust 214 sq ft — larger than on most ocean cruise ships! One of the most interesting features of their newest vessels like the AmaStella is that AMA offers a number of conecting staterooms and, a few staterooms that hold three passengers, both are first in the river cruise industry.  

Not only has Ama been introducing new ships in Europe but also in Southeast Asia and Africa as well. In 2016, AmaWaterways introduced the AmaDara to the Mekong River. While at a glance the AmaDara may seem a bit larger and more traditional that other Mekong ships, she is absolutely the perfect ship for this cruise. The cabins are extremely large (starting at 250sf) with suites at an amazing 502sf. Even better, her size allows for more and better public space than any other Mekong ship. The AmaDara even has a wonderful swimming pool for you to enjoy and believe me, there's nothing better than a cooling plunge after a hot day of touring.

The AmaDara's elegant and very spacious Saigon lounge, beautiful Mekong Restaurant and of course, the Chef's Table (a 28-seat specialty restaurant) add to your enjoyment aboard this outstanding ship. For the ever-popular Mekong River voyages through Vietnam and Cambodia, you definitely must book well in advance to ensure a prime cabin on the date of your choice. In this case, size is truly important when selecting your Mekong River cruise. Read more about her below!

Not as well-known as Ama’s Europe and Asia ships is their newly renovated ship the Zambezi Queen launched in 2015 on the Chobe River in Africa. This amazing ship carries only 28-passengers in staterooms up to 300sqft, offers a sophisticated onboard experience, and all spaces are designed to maximize animal sightings. All itineraries are cruise/tours and include land-based safaris!

AmaWaterways' super-ship, AmaMagna,
continues to be a hit!
The AmaMagna is twice the width of traditional European river ships and offers more personal space, more unique dining venues and more leisure opportunities, redefining the river cruise experience! Most accommodations are spacious suites measuring 355 to 710 sq. ft. with full balconies. In addition to the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, AmaMagna includes two other enticing dining venues: Jimmy’s, a family-style restaurant named for AmaWaterways’ late Co-Owner Jimmy Murphy, and the Al Fresco Restaurant, with retractable windows and outdoor seating. Both a sun-deck pool and whirlpool invite guests to refresh and enjoy the views. AmaMagna’s Zen Wellness Studio is an expansive space with a fitness center, two massage rooms and a refreshing juice bar. And finally, The Marina opens to reveal a Sundowner boat upon which intimate river excursions take place.

Magna has expanded her itineraries to include the popular "Gems of Southeast Europe" voyage, and the "Magna on the Danube" cruise. Now is absolutely the time to book, as Magna has proved her worth with bookings over the last few far exceeding our expectations, and customers raving about their experiences aboard her. Call and speak to one of our AmaWaterways river cruise experts to get all the details and to book — 1-855-255-1200!

If you haven't had a chance to get to know the AmaMagna, click the following links to view the DECK PLAN, PHOTO GALLERY, and video presentation of BUILDING OF THE AMAMAGNA. Enjoy!

The AmaWaterways philosophy: destination-focused journeys, hospitality, service.
One of the myriad reasons we're so enthusiastic about AmaWaterways and why they continue to win so many awards are their ships. AmaWaterways offers some of the river cruise industry’s most innovative ship designs. But, Ama is not just about their ships. The philosophy of Ama centers around a belief that while you’ll be captivated by the towns, cities and villages of your chosen destination, you’ll also discover that when it comes to river cruising, the journey is every bit as important as the destination. Your journey will start with an exceptional ship, a warm and genuinely friendly crew — they’ll know you name by day two — and then the experience becomes even more rewarding with each day of your river cruise trip.

Living well on the rivers.
When we discuss AmaWaterways, we always seem to circle back to a common word: innovation. AMA is constantly innovating new ideas on their river trips. That pursuit continued in 2018, as AMA introduced an onboard wellness program on many itineraries, complete with a wellness host that will lead a variety of exercise classes and onboard lectures focused on healthy eating and relaxation techniques.

In addition to offering more healthy cuisine options, like gluten-free, low-sodium, and vegetarian options, AmaWaterways also includes a variety of exercise classes, including yoga, core strengthening, circuit training, and a complete fitness room. When you add their guided biking and hiking excursions — not to mention your included onshore excursions — you'll soon discover that you have everything needed to get your heart rate going, and enjoyment level soaring!

Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in between — dining aboard is just this side of heaven.
While a river cruise is most certainly centered around enjoyment of the destination, today's river cruise patron also has high expectations when it comes to the food aboard their floating resort. Fortunately, there are no "midnight" buffets, but the Chefs de Cuisine onboard all AmaWaterways river ships will delight your pallet each and every day of your cruise with a variety of delectable regional and western specialties. Even better, your sommelier will pair each delightful course with the perfect regional wine... and, of course, all wines and beers are complimentary aboard your rivership.

With respect to their cuisine, Ama does not over-promise. They provide an outstanding and diversified menu irrespective of the destination you choose to enjoy. Their highly-experienced chefs use fresh, local produce to create a range of culinary masterpieces that highlight the culture and traditions of the region, while very nice complimentary local wines and beers flow freely with dinner. Understanding that the evening meal is somewhat of a social event, Ama encourages open seating so that you can dine when you prefer with whom you prefer without any hassle or wait time. Dinner as well as breakfast and lunch are offered in a relaxed, casual atmosphere with impeccable, warm service. As our friend Bob Falcone recently commented, "they “guaranteed” me fresh fish each evening — how could I resist." For those of you who do not know Bob, he and his wife Judy founded one of the largest cruise-only agencies in the States, Cruises Inc., and were recently inducted into the CLIA [Cruise Lines International Association] Hall of Fame. They are very discerning cruisers and very much enjoyed their AmaWaterways European cruise experience, especially the daily fresh fish entrees.

One final thought about meals aboard an AmaWaterways ship. As do a few other river cruise lines, they offer an exceptional barbeque experience (weather permitting) on the Sun Deck. It's full-on with just about anything you could visualize at such a barbeque: fresh fish and lobster, juicy tender steaks with all the trimmings and much, much more.

What defines heavenly dining? The intimate Chef's Table experience.
In the main dining room, you'll savor award-winning cuisine with regional specialities throughout the cruise. But, now they have a very special venue for guests... All of Ama's ships feature a remarkable, intimate 24-seat, alternative fine dining restaurant which is aptly named, The Chef's Table. It is a "must do" during your cruise. Tucked away in a very nice, secluded spot off the main dining room, you'll enjoy a meal with two views. Of course, there is the floor to ceiling windows where you can gaze out upon the passing river landscape during your meal. The other view is enjoyed by the open kitchen design which enables you to watch each course being prepared by your personal chef. At the Chef's Table, you'll indulge in delightful, gastronomic experiences: each course is paired with a fine regional wine, the cuisine is remarkable to say the least, and oh my, exceptional deserts as well. There is no additonal charge to dine at the Chef's Table, but there is a trick to getting a reservation and your Premier agent will provide you with that trick... you'll love it!

Warm hospitality, impeccable service, luxurious amenities.
Called by many in the travel business the “Crystal Cruise line” of river cruises, Ama indeed rivals Crystal with its exceptional river ships, warm, personal service offered by extraordinary staff, and their gourmet cuisine. As travel professionals, we don't recommend any product that does not consistently offer its guests and our customers an exceptional vacation experience married perfectly with fine cuisine, excellent service and wonderful accommodations. At Premier, we are very confident that each element of your vacation experience with AmaWaterways will exceed your expectations — on each and every ship, all the time... and, here's why...

To start with the list of stateroom and onboard amenities is a lengthy one and includes: hotel-style beds with plush down duvets, terry cloth bathrobes and slippers, a fitness center, beauty salon, and the free use of bicycles. Need to stay connected with friends and family while away? With AmaWaterways you have access to the internet via wifi, and will also enjoy the industry’s most comprehensive in-cabin “infotainment” system offering the latest movies, TV shows and more, all on your large, flat screen TV. Best of all is the cost: absolutely free of charge.

 For the ultimate in stunning views, you need look no further than each ships expansive Sun Deck. There, you can bask in the sunshine as 360-degree views literally glide by. Recline in a lounge chair underneath a shade canopy; grab a book from the library; sip a cold drink from the bar; or jog a few laps around the walking track, or even soak up the rays in the pool or whirlpool. Indoors, the full-length windows of the Main Lounge offer a spacious, inviting place to unwind with friends without missing the view.



Destination-immersive small group shore excursions.
AmaWaterways also excels in providing their guests with well-designed complimentary and well-executed, small group shore excursions during your cruise. You’ll always be provided with attentive, warm service from a crew totally focused on making your river cruise vacation something special and unparalleled. AmaWaterways continues to lead the way in creating more active shore excursions for those who enjoy bike riding and hiking. There are bicycles available on all cruises and bike touring available along the Rhine, Danube and on river cruises in France. One of the newer features aboard are some most interesting hiking tours. One of the most enjoyable is what Ama calls, the Philosopher's Walk of Heildelberg. This is a fantastic tour which provides AMA passengers a very interesting look at this historic university town, but also provides some incredible views as well. Just part of what you can enjoy on a AmaWaterways Danube River cruise.

A wide array of exceptionally well planned and complimentary daily shore excursions have always been a hallmark of an AmaWaterways cruise. A professional Cruise Director works closely with expert local guides to ensure that the history and culture of each region is explained before and during each excursion. One of the unique Ama features that make their shore excursions a cut above others is how they manage guests ashore. As you disembark, they separate everyone into small groups so the local guides can shape the excursion to the expectations and interests of the guests within that group — it's kind of like a group within a group and ensures you maximize not only your time, but the enjoyment from each tour. Guests can also opt for the “gentle walkers” group or the “active walkers” group so that everyone, irrespective of your "condition" can enjoy the complimentary touring. For guests who need a bit slower pace, Ama also offers "slow-paced" shore excursions for their enjoyment. 

AmaWaterways has also designed a really cool “late starters” group excursion for those guests who like to linger over a second or third cup of coffee in the morning. The “late starters” is designed to enable guests to still do the excursions, but at a more relaxed pace. And with their unique wireless audio system and personal headsets, guests longer miss a word of explanation about each excursion — plus, all guides conduct every excursion in english.

The experiences don't stop ashore. You’ll never want for something to enjoy aboard an Ama river cruise ship. After your evening meal, when the stars are sparkling above, Ama’s superb onboard entertainment lights up the ship. Whether it’s Hungarian folk music and dance, a classical quartet or violin concerto, you’re sure to be enthralled. Each night different performers come aboard to enchant and delight each and every guest.



Breathtaking river cruise destinations around the world await you.
You can enjoy an extraordinary AmaWaterways cruise to any of the rivers of Europe, the Mekong River which flows through Vietnam and Cambodia, and Africa’s Chobe River.

Europe. In 2016, AmaWaterways premiered its wine-focused cruise through France's Bordeaux region. “A Taste of Bordeaux” is a very exciting 7-night cruise which can be augmented with a pre-cruise 2-night stay in fabulous Paris and a remarkably enjoyable 2-night post cruise/tour of the Loire Valley. As a complete program, A Taste of Bordeaux has become a highly in demand itinerary; if you’re a food and wine lover, it will really appeal to you. Early booking prices are now in effect, so please take a look at this immersive experience — and make sure you book early as it always sells out quickly.

Southeast Asia. Not one to rest on their laurels, Ama launched a new, deluxe ship, the AmaDara, in 2016, for Southeast Asia river cruising so that more of us can enjoy their incredible Vietnam (By the way, check out our Destination Overview of Vietnam's Ha Long Bay!) and Cambodia river cruise itineraries. The remarkable AmaDara features a mere 62 elegantly decorated staterooms, accented with traditional Colonial touches and Khmer artifacts. She carries only 124 pampered guests on 7 night Mekong River cruises beginning or ending in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The air-conditioned, non-smoking ship offers only river view staterooms and suites, with over 90% featuring private balconies. A very spacious ship, the AmaDara features numerous, tastefully decorated public rooms including a Wellness area on the Sun Deck where guests can enjoy the fitness center, a spa, and outdoor whirlpool and small swiming pool.



AmaWaterways offers most programs on a cruise-tour basis.
Guests have the option to purchase an all-inclusive package of air, cruise, and land, just cruise and land or merely the cruise. Their land portion of a program usually comprises 2 or 3 nights’ deluxe accommodations in a centrally-located hotel, with daily buffet breakfast in cities such as cosmopolitan Paris, exotic Hanoi, or charming Prague. Included are transfers to/from the ship, a city or walking tour, and the services of a local AmaWaterways host. Premier believes that your best value is derived by taking the land and cruise combination which allows you just enough time to relax before and after the cruise in two of the key cities of your vacation. It’s also the best way to maximize your value as the prices Ama charges are usually less than you would pay on your own. 

If you’re looking for that perfect blend of destinational experience, exceptional accommodations, and extraordinary service, the team at Premier River Cruises believes you should strongly consider an AmaWaterways river cruise. Their consistent product delivery will never disappoint! AmaWaterways river cruises are available in Russia on the Volga River, on all the major rivers of Europe including the Rhone, Moselle, Douro, Seine River, Danube and Rhine rivers, and the scintillating Mekong River in Vietnam.

AmaWaterways has been the recipient of numerous awards.
Ama continues to garner its unfair share of travel awards by providing each and every guest with a rich and rewarding onboard experience, one that continues to WOW both guests and travel writers alike.

Here are just a few of their well-deserved awards: 2017 Travvy Awards Gold Winner for Best River Cruise Line Overall; Best River Cruise Ship, AmaStella; Best River Cruise Line, Europe; Best River Cruise Line, Africa; Best River Cruise Line, Asia. 2016 CruiseCritic “Editors Pick” for: Best River Cruise Line Overall, Best River Cruise Line for Active Cruisers, Best River Cruise Line for Families. Berlitz’s 2015 award as “The Highest Rated Ships in Europe, Berlitz Guide to River Cruising in Europe.” We could go on and on as over the years Ama has won many, many more awards and they are important, but we know that while the Ama river cruise ships are among, if not the finest available on any river, it’s really the onboard product and crew that can make or break your vacation experience.

And, while the Premier Team truly believes your ship is critically important, it is not the most important criteria in selecting the "right" river cruise line. One of the most critical aspects when choosing a river cruise is: choosing the right cabin! Please take a moment to read or article on “What Type of Cabin Should I Buy for My River Cruise, and Why?”. There are many, many other factors to consider when choosing a river or small ship cruise vacation. Contact our Premier river cruise experts to find out which AmaWaterways river cruise would be best for you. Our experts will listen to your needs, wants, desires, vacation budget, and then help you pick the best cruise at the best value that meets all of your requirements, and then some. Bon Voyage!