AmaWaterways is an upscale river cruise line known for combining comfortable, contemporary ships with a strong emphasis on food, wine, wellness and giving travelers different ways to explore each destination.

The company sails many of Europe's most popular rivers while also offering more unusual journeys in destinations such as Egypt, Southeast Asia, Africa and Colombia.

One of the biggest differences between AmaWaterways and some other river cruise lines is choice. On many itineraries, passengers can choose among different types and activity levels of shore excursions. One traveler might take a leisurely walking tour while another goes on a guided hike or bicycle ride, allowing people with different interests to enjoy the same cruise.

Founded: 2002

Founders: Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy

Cruise Style: Upscale, destination-focused river cruising

Best Known For: Active excursions, food and wine, wellness, twin-balcony staterooms and AmaMagna

Destinations: Europe, Egypt, Southeast Asia, Africa and Colombia

Atmosphere: Upscale, friendly and relaxed

Dining: Strong emphasis on regional cuisine and wine

Shore Excursions: Multiple included choices on many itineraries

Active Options: Hiking, cycling and different walking-tour activity levels on many European cruises

Bicycles: Carried aboard many European ships

Wellness: Wellness Hosts and fitness programming on many vessels

AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by three experienced travel-industry leaders: Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy.

Schreiner's connection to rivers began long before AmaWaterways. Born in Vienna along the Danube, he developed an early interest in travel and river transportation. In the 1970s, he spent months traveling the Amazon by raft—an experience that helped shape what would eventually become a career in river cruising.

After working extensively in the European river cruise industry, Schreiner joined Karst and Murphy to establish the company that became AmaWaterways.

A major milestone came in 2006 with the christening of AmaWaterways' first custom-built river ship, AmaDagio. Around the same time, the company began placing bicycles aboard select European ships, helping establish the active approach to river cruising that remains part of the brand today.

In 2017, AmaWaterways introduced a formal Wellness Program in Europe, with Wellness Hosts leading fitness and wellness activities aboard participating ships.

Another major development arrived in 2019 with AmaMagna. Built specifically for the Danube, AmaMagna is approximately twice the width of a conventional European river ship. The additional space allows for larger accommodations, multiple restaurants and expanded wellness facilities while carrying fewer than 200 guests.

AmaWaterways has continued expanding beyond Europe's traditional rivers. In 2025, the company began cruising Colombia's Magdalena River with ships designed specifically for that destination.

Today, AmaWaterways operates river cruises across several continents while remaining focused specifically on river travel.

Perhaps the best way to understand AmaWaterways is through one word:

Choice.

On many river cruises, passengers are offered one primary included sightseeing tour in each destination.

AmaWaterways frequently takes a different approach.

Depending on the itinerary and port, choices may include:

• Gentle walking tours
• Regular walking tours
• Faster-paced walking tours
• Guided bicycle tours
• Guided hikes
• Food and wine experiences
• Cultural and special-interest excursions

This can be particularly valuable for couples, families or friends who enjoy traveling together but don't necessarily want to do exactly the same thing every day.

AmaWaterways also places more emphasis than many river cruise companies on active travel, wellness, food and wine.

For travelers concerned that a river cruise might involve too much sitting and sightseeing from a motorcoach, AmaWaterways deserves a closer look.

AmaWaterways operates on many of the world's most important river cruise destinations.

Danube River

The Danube is one of AmaWaterways' major European destinations and home to its distinctive AmaMagna.

Depending on the itinerary, passengers may visit Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, Passau, Regensburg and smaller communities throughout Central and Eastern Europe.

The Danube is an excellent choice for history, architecture, classical music, wine and Christmas markets.

[Explore the Danube River]

Rhine River

AmaWaterways offers Rhine itineraries through the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland.

Castles, vineyards, medieval towns and major cities make this one of Europe's classic first-time river cruise choices.

[Explore the Rhine River]

Main River

The Main often forms part of longer itineraries connecting the Rhine and Danube.

It provides access to historic German destinations and is especially appealing to travelers interested in longer journeys through Central Europe.

[Explore the Main River]

Moselle River

The Moselle travels through one of Europe's most beautiful wine regions.

Vineyards climb the surrounding hillsides, and the river provides access to smaller historic communities and castles.

AmaWaterways' hiking and cycling options can be particularly attractive in this region.

[Explore the Moselle River]

Seine River

AmaWaterways' Seine cruises combine Paris with Normandy.

Depending on the itinerary, travelers may experience Paris, Rouen, Giverny and destinations associated with the Normandy D-Day landings.

[Explore the Seine River]

Rhône & Saône Rivers

Southern France is particularly well suited to AmaWaterways' emphasis on food, wine and active exploration.

Itineraries can include destinations such as Lyon, Avignon and Arles along with the landscapes and communities of Burgundy and Provence.

[Explore the Rhône River]

Bordeaux Region

AmaWaterways explores the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers and the Gironde Estuary around Bordeaux.

Wine is obviously a major attraction, but these itineraries also combine French food, history, châteaux and smaller communities.

[Explore the Bordeaux River Region]

Douro River

The Douro travels through the dramatic vineyard-covered landscapes of Portugal's wine country.

AmaWaterways uses smaller ships specifically designed for the navigation requirements of the river.

[Explore the Douro River]

Nile River

AmaWaterways offers small-ship Nile cruising as part of more extensive Egypt journeys.

The experience is heavily focused on ancient Egyptian history, archaeological sites, temples and tombs.

[Explore the Nile River]

Mekong River

AmaWaterways explores Cambodia and Vietnam along the Mekong.

This is a much more culturally immersive experience than a traditional European river cruise and can be particularly appealing to experienced international travelers.

[Explore the Mekong River]

Magdalena River

AmaWaterways began cruising Colombia's Magdalena River in 2025 with purpose-built vessels.

These itineraries combine Colombian history and culture with music, wildlife, birdlife and communities that have traditionally received relatively few international river cruisers.

[Explore the Magdalena River]

There is no single typical price for an AmaWaterways cruise.

The fare can vary substantially based on:

• River
• Itinerary length
• Departure date
• Season
• Ship
• Stateroom category
• Availability
• Airfare
• Current promotions
• Pre- and post-cruise arrangements

For general planning purposes, many seven-night European AmaWaterways cruises may start in approximately the $3,000 to $5,000 per-person range, although promotions can push some departures below that level while premium travel dates, suites and longer itineraries can cost considerably more.

Specialized destinations such as Egypt, Southeast Asia and Colombia should be evaluated separately from a standard European river cruise.

Compare the Total Vacation Price

When comparing AmaWaterways with another river cruise company, don't look only at the advertised starting fare.

Consider:

Cruise fare + airfare + excursions + beverages + gratuities + transfers + hotels + optional experiences.

A cruise with the lowest advertised fare does not necessarily have the lowest total vacation cost.

Exact inclusions vary by itinerary and destination, but an AmaWaterways river cruise generally includes many of the major components of the vacation.

These can include:

• Onboard meals
• Included shore excursions
• Multiple excursion choices on many itineraries
• Wi-Fi
• Entertainment and enrichment
• Wellness activities on participating ships
• Bicycles aboard many European vessels
• Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Sip & Sail cocktail hour on many cruises
• The Chef's Table specialty dining experience
• Local entertainment and cultural programming

Because inclusions can differ outside Europe, always review the specific itinerary being considered.

Food and wine are important parts of the AmaWaterways experience.

Menus frequently incorporate ingredients and dishes inspired by the regions being visited while still offering familiar alternatives.

One of the company's signature dining experiences is The Chef's Table, an intimate specialty restaurant available aboard many AmaWaterways ships and included in the cruise fare.

Wine also plays a particularly important role.

AmaWaterways offers numerous wine-themed departures, and European itineraries travel through some of the world's best-known wine regions, including Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Moselle, Rhine, Danube and Douro.

Travelers who view food and wine as an important part of discovering a destination should take this into account when comparing AmaWaterways with other river cruise lines.

AmaWaterways offers several accommodation styles depending on the ship.

One of its most recognizable features is the twin-balcony stateroom found aboard many European vessels.

A twin-balcony room combines two different ways of experiencing the river.

French Balcony: Floor-to-ceiling doors open directly to the river, providing fresh air and an unobstructed view without an exterior platform.

Outside Balcony: A separate walk-out balcony provides private outdoor seating.

Some ships also offer French-balcony-only accommodations, fixed-window cabins and larger suites.

Because cabin configurations differ between vessels, it is worth comparing the specific ship rather than assuming every AmaWaterways cabin is the same.

Not necessarily.

This is one of the most important decisions when selecting a river cruise cabin.

River cruises are destination intensive. On many days passengers leave after breakfast and spend a large portion of the day ashore.

If you expect to participate in most excursions, you may find that a Standard or French Balcony stateroom gives you everything you need.

On the other hand, travelers who enjoy sitting privately outside with coffee in the morning or watching castles and vineyards pass may find a full veranda well worth the additional expense.

There is no universally correct choice.

Consider how you actually travel before spending the money to upgrade.

This is one of AmaWaterways' strongest areas.

Instead of assuming every passenger wants the same activity level, AmaWaterways frequently provides several ways to experience a destination.

A couple might spend the morning separately—one taking a guided bicycle tour while the other chooses a relaxed walking tour—and meet again aboard the ship for lunch.

Depending upon the itinerary, active experiences can include:

• Cycling
• Hiking
• Faster-paced walking tours
• Wellness walks
• Other physically active sightseeing

Travelers don't have to participate in these activities.

The advantage is having the choice.

Wellness on AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways introduced its European Wellness Program in 2017.

Participating ships have Wellness Hosts who may lead activities such as stretching, yoga and fitness classes.

Many vessels also have fitness facilities, and some offer massage services.

Combined with the company's hiking and cycling excursions, this gives passengers more opportunities to remain active than they might expect on a river cruise.

The atmosphere aboard AmaWaterways is generally relaxed and social.

Like most river cruises, the destination remains the primary attraction. Passengers typically spend much of the day ashore and return to the ship in the afternoon or evening.

Depending upon the vessel, onboard amenities may include:

• Lounge
• Sun Deck
• Pool
• Fitness room
• Massage services
• Walking track
• Bicycles
• Main restaurant
• Chef's Table
• Live entertainment
• Cultural programming

Evenings are considerably quieter than aboard a large ocean cruise ship.

AmaWaterways operates a diverse fleet designed around the rivers and regions in which the ships sail.

Most of its European vessels are contemporary river ships carrying roughly 150 to 160 guests. Many feature twin-balcony staterooms, pools, fitness facilities, The Chef's Table restaurant and bicycles carried onboard.

The major exception is AmaMagna.

Built specifically for the Danube, AmaMagna is approximately twice the width of a conventional European river ship. Despite the additional space, it carries fewer than 200 guests.

That extra width provides room for larger accommodations, four dining venues and significantly expanded wellness and public areas.

AmaWaterways also operates smaller purpose-built ships on rivers such as the Douro, Nile, Mekong and Magdalena, where local navigation conditions require very different vessel designs.

For most travelers, we recommend choosing the river and itinerary first, then comparing the ships available on those departures.

AmaMagna is the notable exception because it is different enough from a traditional European river ship that the vessel itself may influence the decision.

Yes.

AmaWaterways can be an excellent first river cruise, particularly for travelers concerned that river cruising might be too passive or structured.

The variety of excursion choices allows passengers to determine how active they want each day to be.

For a first European river cruise, the Danube and Rhine are especially strong choices because both combine famous cities, smaller historic communities, scenery and cultural experiences.

Viking isn't automatically the right choice for everyone.

Travelers With Children

Viking does not accept passengers under age 18.

Families should consider river cruise companies with family-friendly departures and policies.

Very Active Travelers

If biking, hiking and having several activity levels available on excursions are especially important, compare Viking with AmaWaterways and other lines emphasizing active exploration.

Travelers Seeking Greater Luxury or Inclusiveness

Travelers looking for a more inclusive luxury experience should also compare Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld and Riverside.

Travelers Who Want Highly Individual Ships

Viking's consistency is a strength.

But travelers who love highly decorated, individually styled boutique ships may prefer a company such as Uniworld.

Travelers Looking for Nightlife

Viking is deliberately quiet in the evening.

If extensive entertainment is a major part of your ideal vacation, river cruising in general—and Viking in particular—may not be the best match.

AmaWaterways occupies an interesting position in the river cruise market.

It provides an upscale experience but doesn't necessarily compete on exactly the same basis as the most all-inclusive luxury companies.

AmaWaterways vs. Viking

Both companies offer extensive European river programs.

Viking places a strong emphasis on consistency, Scandinavian design and destination-focused sightseeing.

AmaWaterways generally provides more emphasis on excursion choice, cycling, hiking, wellness, food and wine.

[Explore Viking River Cruises]

AmaWaterways vs. Avalon Waterways

Both companies provide different ways to experience destinations.

Avalon's biggest distinguishing feature is its Panorama Suite, where beds face floor-to-ceiling river views.

AmaWaterways stands out more for active excursions, wellness, food and its twin-balcony cabin design.

[Explore Avalon Waterways]

AmaWaterways vs. Scenic

Scenic operates at a more inclusive luxury level.

Its fares generally incorporate more beverages, gratuities, butler service and other inclusions.

AmaWaterways may have a lower initial price and places greater emphasis on active touring.

[Explore Scenic River Cruises]

AmaWaterways vs. Uniworld

Uniworld emphasizes luxury, highly individualized boutique-hotel-style ships and extensive inclusions.

AmaWaterways has a more contemporary aesthetic and places greater emphasis on activity, wellness and excursion choices.

[Explore Uniworld Boutique River Cruises]

AmaWaterways vs. Tauck

Tauck brings more than a century of guided-tour experience to its river cruises and generally includes more within the overall vacation.

AmaWaterways provides a different experience, with particularly strong active touring, cycling, wellness and food-and-wine components.

[Explore Tauck River Cruises]

AmaWaterways is generally best described as an upscale or premium-to-luxury river cruise line.

Its ships, dining and service can be excellent, and some accommodations—particularly aboard AmaMagna—can feel quite luxurious.

However, companies such as Scenic, Tauck and Uniworld generally include more within the upfront cruise fare and operate more squarely in the luxury or ultra-luxury segment.

This doesn't automatically make those companies better.

It simply means travelers should compare both experience and inclusions, rather than relying on labels such as “premium” or “luxury.”

Yes.

AmaWaterways can be an excellent first river cruise, particularly for travelers concerned that river cruising might be too passive or structured.

The variety of excursion choices allows passengers to determine how active they want each day to be.

For a first European river cruise, the Danube and Rhine are especially strong choices because both combine famous cities, smaller historic communities, scenery and cultural experiences.

AmaWaterways' greatest strength may be its ability to let passengers decide how they want to experience the destination.

You might explore a historic city on foot one morning, bicycle through vineyards the next day and choose a more relaxed sightseeing tour after that.

Food, wine and wellness add another dimension to the experience without taking attention away from the destinations themselves.

AmaWaterways is particularly worth comparing when activity, excursion choice, food, wine and contemporary ships matter to your vacation.

But no river cruise line is the right choice for everyone.

The river, itinerary, ship, stateroom, inclusions and overall travel style should all be considered before deciding.

Are shore excursions included on AmaWaterways?

Yes. Shore excursions are included, and many itineraries offer several excursion choices and activity levels.

Does AmaWaterways have bicycles onboard?

Many European AmaWaterways ships carry bicycles for guided cycling excursions and, where permitted, independent exploration.

Is AmaWaterways good for active travelers?

Yes. This is one of the company's strongest features. Depending on the itinerary, passengers may find cycling, hiking and faster-paced walking tours in addition to traditional sightseeing.

Do I have to participate in the active excursions?

No. The point is choice. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace can select traditional or gentler sightseeing options when offered.

Are alcoholic drinks included?

Wine, beer and soft drinks are generally included with onboard lunch and dinner. Many cruises also include a Sip & Sail cocktail hour.

Beverage policies can vary by itinerary, so check the specific sailing.

Is The Chef's Table included?

The Chef's Table specialty dining experience is included aboard participating AmaWaterways ships.

Does AmaWaterways have formal nights?

AmaWaterways has a generally relaxed atmosphere rather than traditional formal nights. Comfortable clothing is appropriate during daytime touring, with smart-casual clothing suitable for most evenings.

Does AmaWaterways have balconies?

Yes. Depending on the ship and cabin category, accommodations may have French balconies, outside balconies or AmaWaterways' distinctive twin-balcony arrangement.

What is a twin-balcony stateroom?

A twin-balcony stateroom combines a French balcony with a separate walk-out exterior balcony.

Does AmaWaterways have a swimming pool?

Many AmaWaterways European ships have a small heated pool or similar Sun Deck water feature. Amenities vary by vessel.

Is AmaWaterways adults only?

No.

Unlike Viking, AmaWaterways is not universally adults-only. Minimum ages and family suitability vary by itinerary, so families should check the specific departure.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not universally included in the same manner as on some highly inclusive luxury river cruise lines. Review the gratuity policy for the specific itinerary when comparing total vacation costs.

Is AmaWaterways good for food and wine?

Yes. Food and wine are important components of the AmaWaterways experience, and the company operates numerous wine-focused departures.

Is AmaWaterways good for travelers with mobility limitations?

It depends upon the traveler and itinerary.

AmaWaterways' different walking-tour activity levels can be helpful, but river cruising can still involve cobblestones, stairs, gangways and ships docked alongside one another.

The specific itinerary, ship and excursion requirements should be evaluated before booking.

What is AmaMagna?

AmaMagna is AmaWaterways' unusually wide Danube river ship.

At approximately twice the width of a conventional European river vessel, it provides significantly more space for suites, restaurants, wellness facilities and public areas while carrying fewer than 200 guests.

What is the best AmaWaterways river cruise?

There isn't one best cruise for everyone.

For a first European river cruise, consider the Danube or Rhine.

For wine and scenery, consider the Douro, Moselle, Bordeaux or Rhône.

For travelers wanting something substantially different from Europe, consider the Mekong, Nile or Magdalena River.

Choosing Viking is only the beginning.

There are still decisions about the river, itinerary, departure date, ship and stateroom—and sometimes another river cruise company may actually be a better match.

All About Travel can help you compare Viking with AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic, Uniworld, Tauck, American Cruise Lines and other river cruise companies.

Instead of looking only at the advertised price, we can help you compare the things that can make the greatest difference to your vacation:

The river. The itinerary. The ship. The stateroom. The excursions. The inclusions. The overall price. And the way you like to travel.