Theyve also expanded into ocean cruises as well. Once at your destination, you can speak with your guide about going off solojust make sure you dont miss the ride back to the ship. Generally speaking the half board we experienced sailing with AmaWaterways felt very much like almost all inclusive. That said, shorts and sandals arent permitted in the dining room on any night, but fine at lunchtime. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. However, theres always plenty of flexibility while in port for adventures, from wine tastings to museum visits. [11], As of 2022, AmaWaterways had a fleet of 26 ships. Otherwise, youll have plenty of time for peaceful contemplation in the lounge. Backroads even provides the high-end bikes for these sailings, set up for each person ahead of time based on factors like height, weight and cycling style. One of the best extras with AmaWaterways is that they have a choice of excursions in most ports at no extra charge, says travel advisor Candie Steinman, franchise owner, Dream Vacations, Fort Myers, FL. How Reassuring are New Cruise Cancellation Policies Really? If youre not sure about a river cruise and want to investigate ocean cruise lines, you might be interested in these articles: Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian, Carnival Cruise vs Royal Caribbean, Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity, Are Viking Cruises Adults Only, and Royal Caribbean vs. Princess. AmaWaterways is a Calabasas, California based river cruise company that offers cruises in Europe, Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Egypt. These excursions generally are limited to small groups and take you into smaller venues or provide immersive experiences that expose passengers to a port's culture and tradition on a deeper, often hands-on, level. There was no detail that she missed. Ocean cruisers whove wanted to try a river cruise but have been afraid of feeling too confined will likely find AmaMagna more to their taste. Award-winning dining experiences are offered in four different restaurant options aboard the ship. Breakfast is served with fresh juices and sparkling wines so that every day starts off with a touch of luxury. Explore Danube River on two wheels with AmaWaterways included onboard bicycles, How Much Are Drinks On Viking River Cruises, Where Do Viking River Cruises Dock In Amsterdam, How To Get Off Viking Cruises Mailing List, Where Do River Cruise Ships Dock In Basel Switzerland, Cruises From Los Angeles To Hawaii Round Trip, 10 reasons to go on a lower Danube cruise, Which Is The Best River Cruise Company In Europe, Who Has The Best Alaska Land And Sea Cruises, Indoor glass-walled observation lounge at the front of the ship, Three meals a day and group shore tours included. Our land packages include some of the most amazing destinations pre- and/or post-cruise but, what's included? The next deck is the Cello Deck, home to staterooms and the main restaurant, followed by the Violin deck, with more staterooms, reception, the lounge, a gift shop, and the Chefs Table restaurant. Our Reception Desk staff and additional crew will be happy to offer their suggestions, though part of the fun of exploring ports is stumbling upon a unique find yourself! For more helpful information by destination, click here. Visit our FAQs page, learn more about river cruising with AmaWaterways, contact your preferred travel advisor or call us at 1.800.626.0126. All excursions are included for guests on the AmaSiena, and while theres a range for all types of travelers, Amawaterways as a company offers more active excursions than its competitors. Both lines sail on the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhone, Seine, Garonne, Elbe, Dordogne and Douro in Europe, and both offer Christmas markets cruises. Sandals Cabana Rental: All You Need to Know 2023, Is Santorini Worth It? These requirements,as mandated by airlines and individual countries or regions, may change without notice and cancellation fees will apply should guests no longer meet the country entry requirements for their cruise or land program. I would like to Thank Eric for helping book this vacation to Punta Cana in DR and recommending the Secrets Cap Cana resort. You can also venture off without officially joining an excursionbicycles are available to borrow any time the ship is docked, and you can always use your own feet or a taxi to get around. During the day, passengers can skip the ship's dining room for buffet dining. The Shore Excursions. [1] One of these, the AmaMagna, is the largest cruise ship on the Danube. Boats in the AmaWaterways fleet also offer bikes, which can be used in port as part of an excursion or for solo exploration. There are a lot of river cruise lines to choose from, so do your research to find the ship and company that meets your needs. For more information or to book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred travel advisor , visit AmaWaterways.com or call (800) 626 . AmaWaterways will offer pre-cruise packages in both Medellin (2 nights) and Cartagena (3 nights), which can be combined, and a 3-night Panama City package post-cruise that will include a visit to the Panama Canal. Expanded to North America and now has itineraries for many ports around the globe. Both lines offer concierge services, books to borrow on topics like history or tourism, comfortable bars for drinks and dancing and top-deck walking tracks and giant chess boards. A-Rosa does include all alcoholic drinks and gratuities -- measures that appeal to its primarily European passengers. This includes dinner at The Chef's Table specialty restaurant, all-day tapas, afternoon tea delights and more. AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . Contact. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Learn how your comment data is processed. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. These may seem like low amounts, but its important to remember that river cruise ships are far smaller than regular-sized cruise ships. The venue that AmaWaterways uses isnt too far from the dock, has excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. We are booked on AMA and are considering the Xmas Market 2-day post-cruise extension in Prague in December. Both include toiletries: Ama supplies Hydro brand shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap and lotion, while Viking provides Freyja amenities. AmaWaterways is very much a luxury river cruise line operating in the more premium area, and their ships, service and the quality of what they offer is very highly rated. Plan to pack attire that is casually elegant; and something a little dressier to wear to the Captains Dinner or an evening concert. We are pleased to offer guests the opportunity to experience Floriade in 2022 while sailing along the Rhine River and Dutch and Belgian Waterways between April 14 and October 9. On Uniworld ships, you will enjoy a 5-star all-inclusive experience, inclusive of fine wines, premium spirits, and every meal on board, as well as onshore excursions, access to the fitness center and wellness classes, all gratuities, and airport transfers. Recommended Reading: Italian River Cruise. Soda, beer and regional wines are included at meal times, and menus source heavily from local markets and reflect the areas through which the ships sail. Thank you Eric for handling our destination Wedding at the Finest and also our Honeymoon at the Unico Resort. They offer cruises ranging from 7 to 27 days. Ama feels very much a premium product, however is well worth the price. Our Programme takes you straight from your ship to the course and back making your golfing experience seamless Golf and River Cruise truly is a marriage made in heaven. AmaWaterways offers itineraries in Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, Africa, and Colombia. Travel agents specializing in river cruises are usually able to offer great discounts and deals that are unavailable to the general public. Both cruise lines offer a variety of dining options and menus that reflect the cuisine of the destination countries. As with any cruise type, the cost can vary depending on the itinerary, dates, and ship you're on. All meals are included in your fare. On board AmaWaterways, you will find cabins with a classy, sleek look and contemporary design. Ports of call include Cologne, Germany, and Strasbourg, France, and smaller picturesque towns throughout the Alsace region of France and the Black Forest region of Germany. [1][2] Schreiner had been one of the pioneers of the river cruise industry after the RhineMainDanube Canal opened in 1992. Overall, the ship has an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. If I get seasick on boats or on ocean cruise ships, will I get seasick on the rivers? I think we have it all covered there, River Cruising is a totally different experience to Ocean Cruising, yet is equally spectacular. Viking also has an impressive lineup of partners, including Masterpiece Theatre, so passengers could elect to visit Highclere Castle, where "Downton Abbey" was shot, and get behind-the-scenes exclusive access as part of a cruise land extension for Paris and Normandy cruises. AmaWaterways offers a huge selection of complimentary drinks onboard its European cruises. Excursions are operated in small groups of just 10-15 guests. Have you cruised with Uniworld or AmaWaterways? Ama's cabins in virtually every category are slightly bigger than Viking's. Smaller ships, such as the Queen Isabel, hold 116 guests, while larger ships, such as the SS Catherine, hold 162 passengers. The building design is classy and quality. I had the chance to sail the new vessel on its first sailing. Your email address will not be published. As a high-end river cruise line, you'll find an awful lot included in your cruise, including: Unlimited fine wines, sparkling wines, premium spirits and beers on-board; Welcome bottle of sparkling wine and two bottles of wine in-suite; 24-hour self service venue offering tea, coffee, wines and non-alcoholic beverages; Opened in 2002, with 18 amazing years in operation. An immense variety of ports means more unique travel destinations and options. You may be traveling through different climates and altitudes, so layering is advisable. Planning to sail with AmaWaterways for the first time but not sure what to expect? Learn how your comment data is processed. What should I bring to wear for my river cruise? After pandemic-induced delays, family-owned river cruise line AmaWaterways had a big year in 2021, debuting three new ships to its international fleet, including the AmaSiena, sister to the AmaLea and AmaKristina, which was christened on Europes Rhine River in August 2021. Hello! Plus, venture with us for the first time ever into the Danube Delta with incredible new ports including Giurgiulesti, Moldova. Born in Austria, Schreiner always dreamed about building a larger river cruise vessel to sail the Danube, and now thats become a reality. Ama feels very much a premium product, however is well worth the price. This is my second time booking a trip with Cheryl Wilson. According to Wendy Perrin, one of the most noted travel experts in the industry, some of these similarities include: Viking ships all feature elevators whereas AmaWaterways only has elevators on the Europe ships. Neither includes gratuities for crew or tour guides.. AmaWaterways suggests 100 euros per person per seven-night cruise (120 euros on AmaMagna), with an additional 25 euros per week-long sailing for the cruise manager. I will book all future trips with only her. For example, in 2021, wine enthusiasts might head into France to taste vintages on an Essence of Burgundy & Provence wine-themed sailing or into Austria and Germany for a Melodies of the Danube wine cruise. What You Need to Know. Fully-inclusive river cruises Fully inclusive means that selected drinks such as beer and wine are included at meal times only. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. Im sure he will recommend the perfect resort and place for this trip as well. Theres always the lounge or the Sun Deck, though. The Black Sea Voyage shows you a different side of Europe Eastern Europe, with its recent scars and growing pains. How? I thought it may help to understand what's included on an Ama River Cruise. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. They're designed to provide more insight into the ports and destinations the ships visit. AmaSiena joins AmaWaterways legacy of upscale yet relaxed river cruises that cater to more active couples or mature multi-gen groups. Most passengers go with the general offering, which usually combines tour buses, some walking and guided exploration of the top sites. All meals are included on AmaSiena. As with any cruise type, the cost can vary depending on the itinerary, dates, and ship youre on. No matter the time of day there are always cookies and snacks available at the Al Fresco Restaurant. All meals are included on AmaSiena. Definitely coming back. AmaWaterways is a family-owned company that was established in 2002 and is still run by the families. Founded in 2002, this European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation . 3 Meals A Day Although dining is more intimate with less venues on a river cruise ship. We recommend AmaWaterways for families and young adults. Find out everything from whats included to how to dress on board our river cruises. These Piano Deck cabins with fixed windows are the smallest onboard at just 160 square feet. Complementary drinks Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. In the main lounge, there is 24-hour access to tea and coffee making facilities including hot chocolate and herbal/fruit teas. The same applies to Australia's Travelmarvel, which is owned by APT (see below). The onboard entertainment strives to immerse you in local culture during your trip, with live music, storytellers, and dancers who live and work in the destinations the ships travel to. But during meals, the waitstaff is quick to refill your glass!) Both lines also offer specialized cruises. As with most river cruises, onboard activities are limited, as the focus is on excursions. Let us know your experience in the comment section below! Guests will enjoy a variety of experiences exclusive to this special itinerary, such as guided tours showcasing jazz, food and wine, all while shining a light on Black heritage. AmaWaterways excursions generally have three levels: a gentle-walking group, the general group and the active group. We had a great time and will be returning with friends!!! Our 2023 sailing is at capacity. Starting in 2016, it offered "cruise and bike trips on the Rhine, Seine and Douro". Both offer exceptional dining, great entertainment and activities, and a luxurious experience. Heres what you need to know. This beach is gorgeous. Selected drinks are included at meal times on the following cruise lines: AmaWaterways Both itineraries are open for sale now, with Karst encouraging the audience of the 'Sip & Sail' event to "contact your travel . Also free use of bikes to take on shore. AmaWaterways requires a $400 deposit for Europe and Asia itineraries ($1,200 for Egypt sailings, $2,400 on Africa cruises and $2,400 for the extended Seven River Journey Through Europe itineraries). Again, this isnt a new concept, but one that AmaWaterways has done to perfection. AmaWaterways is another well-known and luxurious river cruise line, with a fleet of 26 ships. If you dont plan on spending much time in your room, these categories will do just fine, but be forewarnedpart of the fun of the Rhine itineraries is sitting outside watching the castles and locks go by. We chose the Black Sea Voyage since their AmaPrima ship, which was built in 2013, has 82 cabins that can hold a total of 162 passengers. Lisa Long, owner of Luxury Vacations LLC, an independent travel agency in the Avoya Network, Marietta, GA, sells many river cruises and from her perspective, I would classify AmaWaterways as a luxury river cruise experience with a warm and friendly staff and excellent food. There are fitness classes (during COVID times, these were provided outdoors, weather permitting, rather than in the fitness center), massages and beauty treatments in the one-room spa and salon, a small pool, and an outdoor giant chess set. One dinner here per sailing is included for all guests, but you need a reservation. The wine host also accompanies guests during vineyard tours and tastings ashore. Exclusively available on board the AmaMagna, the Zen Wellness Studio also includes outdoor spin bikes, two massage rooms, a hair and nail salon, juice bar and a small selection of child-size bicycles to use on shore. some of the leading championship courses on the continent. While some other major river cruise lines have eliminated their onboard bikes or charge a fee to rent them ashore, AmaWaterways for maintains a fleet of bikes on every European vessel. The What to Expect on a River Cruise series is a resource guide, written by Cruise Critic editors and contributors, where we answer the most common questions about river cruises, including dining, cabins and suites, service and onboard activities. So how do you decide? Guests reserving our optional land packages will also find daily breakfast at their hotel included in the price of their package. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. Suite guests receive a complimentary stocked mini-bar . The word "inclusive" gets thrown around a lot, but what exactly does it mean? Viking and Ama both include enrichment programs during their sailings, and the offerings are comparable. AmaWaterways' river cruise offerings include the Main River, Moselle River, Rhne River, Douro River, Dutch and Belgium Waterways, Saone River, Seine River, Dordogne, and Garonne Rivers, Mekong River, Nile River, and Magdalena River. One bonus that Viking River Cruises has over AmaWaterways is the ability to combine both river and ocean itineraries since they operate both types of ships now. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. The cruise begins in Budapest, Hungary, where you board the ship in the afternoon and start sailing after dark, when all the buildings and bridges along the Danube are illuminated. 800-626-0126. www.amawaterways.com. Absolutely not! It was set up by Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy. Based on the overwhelmingly positive response received from the announcement of our first-ever Soulful Epicurean Experience on the Rhne River in 2023, we are delighted to announce two new opportunities for guests to celebrate their heritage and discover Black history and culture along the rivers with us in 2024. Do I need formal attire? AmaWaterways is a Calabasas, California based river cruise company that offers cruises in Europe, Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Egypt. You can expect a whole range of inclusions on your Nile or Mekong cruise with AmaWaterways. Decor is punctuated by Scandinavian art (paintings of old Norwegian sailing vessels, for example). Every lunch and dinner includes unlimited complimentary fine wines, beer and soft drinks. The ship primarily sails the Rhine River through Western Europe, whisking guests to fairytale-esque towns and historic cities. They even have a specially selected handful of wine cruises, with various tours around Europe, France, and Portugal. Read on for a look at what major river cruise lines include in their fares. Also Check: Are Regent Cruises Worth The Money. Shore excursions are a major component of the river cruise appeal. Your Cruise Manager will explain more when applicable. Another perk is that the line offers multiple pace levels of walking tours gentle, regular and active. There was something for everyone this will be a vacation that we will talk about for the rest of our lives! The lines might bring onboard local singers, dancers and musicians during visits to Vienna, for example, or teach passengers how to make local dishes. The line has 55 Longships, nearly identical boats designed to sail Europe's rivers. These are sometimes in mini trains to save tired legs and also add a little adventure. Theyre all exterior cabins decorated in the ships signature red-and-gray color palette, equipped with hairdryers, safes, telephones, TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, a desk and chair, and a (somewhat cramped) en-suite bathroom with a shower. Also for those with mobility issues, or indeed families with young children AmaWaterways offer gentle trips. AmaWaterways Deck plans AmaDahlia Current cruise: 7 days, round-trip Secrets of Egypt the Nile APT River Cruises Itineraries Deck plans Travelmarvel Polaris Current cruise: N/A Travelmarvel-APT River Cruises Tracker Deck plans Travelmarvel Vega Current cruise: N/A Travelmarvel-APT River Cruises Tracker Deck plans Travelmarvel Capella How To Cope With Cruising's Pause? Viking, whose president and founder, Torstein Hagan, is Norwegian, features comfortable, modern and minimalist styling. Five Ama ships -- AmaViola, AmaStella, AmaLea, AmaKristina and AmaMora -- also include several cabins that can accommodate three or four people (with a king-size bed along with a chair that converts into a twin bed). The decor was very impressive but also authentic Mayan feel. Experience Christmas Markets, a holiday feast with all the trimmings and special events on board with your esteemed host. How to Cheat Royal Caribbean Drink Package. Fresh local dishes and favorite drinks are stocked on board at every location to make you feel like . Its difficult to feel hungry on The AmaMagna there are always snack available somewhere on the ship. Incredible awards and ratings including having the highest rated river cruise ships in Europe. Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity: Which Cruise Line Is Best for You. While we offer a wide variety of included excursions to suit your individual interests and encourage you to join us, you are of course welcome to explore on your own. Thank you Eric for recommending this fantastic Resort, a fitting finish to our trip. Every breakfast, lunch and dinner during your river cruise will be included on board. She loves her job and you can tell when talking to her. Both suggest gratuities of around 2 euros for tour guides and one euro for bus drivers. They also have heated swimming pools with swimup bars that are surprisingly large for a river line. [1][2] Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. These small staterooms on the Cello and Violin decks have French balconiesthat is, the floor-to-ceiling window-door slides open entirely. Explore the heart of 15 fascinating European countries on an enthralling 49-night journey. Within Europe, Viking offers cruises to a number of different countries, including France, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Romania and Portugal. Passengers are treated to a multicourse meal with unlimited premium wine, paired to the courses. How Do AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Compare on Itineraries and Fleet? Where to Eat and Drink . Most if not all of the river cruises along the Danube include an optional Mozart concert in Vienna. Modern coaches provide the primary mode of transportation for each, though Viking's are branded with the cruise line's logo and photos of the ships or exotic locations (making them easily identifiable among the crowd), while only some of AmaWaterways' buses are branded. AmaWaterways operates the finest fleet and provides all-inclusive river cruise vacations on the great waterways of Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Ever-expanding family-owned river cruise brand AmaWaterways prides itself on its fleet of more than two dozen exquisite vessels. There's also space at the Aquavit Terrace. In addition, should it happen to rain during your river cruise, we have umbrellas available for you to use onshore. On some days, guests have a choice of excursions to different towns in different countries, so its best to do a little research before making your selectionyou often will only have time for one, as theyre usually a bus ride away. Thats typically a U.S. vintner who sails and lectures onboard as well as brings hand-selected vintages for guests to taste. Thats not to say that friend groups or multi-gen families wouldnt enjoy sailingseveral cabins do have connecting doors. However, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises more than delivers on this! Sandals vs. Iberostar Resorts: Which Is Best for You? Credit card showdown: Alaska Airlines Visa vs. Alaska Airlines Business Visa, Disney Cruise Lines Castaway Club loyalty program: Everything you need to know. AmaWaterways is now offering a comprehensive package with a 7-night river cruise in a French balcony stateroom, round-trip airfare, transfers, a pre- or post-cruise land package, port charges and Travel Waiver Plus all included with a starting price of US$5,499 per person. These cabins are practically identical to the previous category, although they provide slightly more space at 235 square feet. When it comes to accommodations onboard, many believe that Uniworld has the upper hand. Thank you Dani for knowing how to make things happen and always willing to go the extra mile to make our vacation special! Ukraine, Russia, and Egypt are also scheduled countries for Viking River Cruises. All of the tours are very interactive and high-end, offering you more than a regular tour ever could. That said, neither cruise line is actually geared toward families, so if your children are always looking for something new to do, you may want to consider alternative options. River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. "I'm Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of AmaWaterways and I'm passionate about river cruising. So, yes, you should bring a book. [2], Cruises are full-board and include wine and beer with meals as well as a cocktail hour. Because of the nature of river cruising many of the tours are within walking distance. This allows for more choice, enabling you to find just the right cruise and ship for you. The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. AmaMagna's itineraries include Romantic Danube, . Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. As for accommodations, ultra-spacious suites account for more than 50 percent of AmaMagnas accommodations. AmaWaterways' Seven River Journey Through Europe is scheduled to set sail on June 1, 2023, with prices starting at $25,999 per passenger. Gentle is designed for those guests needing a slower pace and, at times if possible , even a bit less walking. [2] The company also caters to bicyclists, golfers,[4] and other active passengers. Theres just one main restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We never once had a WiFi issue, the service was so quick. Both lines offer a variety of amenities that are standard between ships. Then, there are the ships in Egypt and China, Vietnam, which the line either owns or charters. Explore the rich history of classical music along the Danube River where famous composers lived, worked and performed. All guests traveling with AmaWaterways remain responsible for ensuring they meet the travel entry requirements for each country they plan to visit before, during or after their river cruise. in multiple ports, commemorative gifts, and many more surprises and delights. Theres also the Chefs Table, a 32-seat specialty restaurant with a panoramic view from the ship's stern that serves a five-course tasting menu. But also a great time to take advantage of complimentary pre dinner drinks which consist of champagne, wine, beer and specially selected cocktails. General What's Included What's Included - AmaWaterways Your AmaWaterways Package Includes: All meals on board Comfortable accommodations Ocean transportation Entertainment and daily activities Port charges Europe Cruises Coffee, tea & complimentary bottled water Local wines, soft drinks and beer during lunch and dinner Complimentary Wi-Fi Excursions are typically guided by local experts who know the port's culture and history well. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Cost. While our fitness rooms vary from ship to ship, they will typically include a treadmill, elliptical machine or spin bike, as well as an assortment of free weights. AmaSiena has 78 staterooms across nine room types, each of which can have the bed configured as a queen or two twins. The line sails to more than 25 countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. With an innovative product and rapidly-growing fleet of custom-designed ships, the line enjoys a reputation as the leader in river cruising. More excursions offered than any other company. [2] It had a fleet of 26 ships as of 2022. Also you leave the ship there is cold water available to take along with you. Debuting in 2023 for the first time ever, our unforgettable Seven River Journeys will forever mark their place in history as the longest and most epic river cruises. Uniworld offers unlimited premium spirits and wines, and AmaWaterways includes all drinks with meals plus a daily cocktail hour. At breakfast, you can enjoy sparkling wine, juices, tea and coffee. If cancellation is made 121 days or more from the sailing 50 percent of the deposit is returned and is then on a sliding scale up until the time of departure. Ever-expanding family-owned river cruise brand AmaWaterways prides itself on its fleet of more than two dozen exquisite vessels. No need to dress for dinner here, and passengers don't have to show up at a set time, either.