Takeaways from the AmaWaterways River Cruise Virtual Presentations

Last month, Stephen Batjiaka from AMA Waterways and myself teamed up to talk about our European river cruises. 

Thank you to everyone who tuned in for these special virtual events. Steve and I discussed what to expect on these vacations and shared highlights from our own experiences of life on board. In case you missed it, here are the key takeaways from our presentation. 

River cruises with AmaWaterways

​“Oceans take you to countries, rivers take you through them” 
- Jimmy Murphy, co-founder of AmaWaterways

That’s the essence of a river cruise with AmaWaterways! These culturally immersive trips take you into the heart of Europe, where you can experience architecture, heritage, gastronomy, and local life. 

There are 34 tours to choose from, including seven special winter cruises that give you a taste of the holidays in Europe:
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• Christmas Markets on the Rhine
• Magna on the Danube - Christmas
• Iconic Christmas Markets (Danube)
• Christmas Markets on the Danube
• Magical Christmas Markets (Danube)
• Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps (Rhine)
• Rhine & Moselle Delights - Christmas

Are AmaWaterways cruises all-inclusive?

As we said, river cruise trips are all-inclusive and 5-star rated. Your accommodation, food, and excursions are included in the price. You also receive some alcoholic beverages; any additional drinks may be purchased on board. The company upholds sustainable practices, and all food is locally sourced.

What shore excursions are available?

Once docked, there is ample opportunity to get off the boat and explore the towns. Both gentle walks, guided hikes, and cycling are on the table, as well as special interest tours. Dependent on where you are, you have the chance to experience local cheese, wine, beer, and chocolate tastings. There are some opportunities to visit neighboring cities.

Naturally, the festive cruises are brimming with visits to local Christmas markets in each city. There you can sample festive food, pick up handmade holiday gifts, and engage with the culture of European Christmas markets. 
 
What makes AmaWaterways unique?

AmaWaterways is a boutique family business who treat their travelers as part of the family. You will be collected from the airport, and you have full say on exactly how you spend each day of your cruise. Unlike the packages offered by competitors, each excursion is tailored to suit the needs of our travelers. If you have something that you specifically want from your trip, your Cruise Manager will help you plan your free time. 

Insider tips for planning a river cruise 

Think about your personal interests

Before you book a river cruise, we urge you to do some light research to determine which European cities most appeal to you. No European city is identical to another. Each has its own traditions, heritage, and culture to experience.  

Bring extra luggage space

Trust me, you will want to buy many locally crafted items while in Europe - particularly if you visit the Christmas markets!

Extend your trip

All cruises are 7-night tours, and (if possible) we recommend adding a few extra days on either side of the cruise. AmaWaterways offer pre and post-cruise land packages, which add two nights in a city of your choice. You can talk to me about your personal preferences, so we can determine which city has the most interest to you. 

Book early

We are offering discounts and upgrade deals to our early birds who book a cruise for 2021 or 2022, and 2023 will soon be open for booking. So if you’re thinking ahead to post-pandemic travel, feel free to get in touch early. 

If you have any more questions about the river cruises, please do contact me.