Ama's cabins in virtually every category are slightly bigger than Viking's. [2] It had a fleet of 26 ships as of 2022. Ever-expanding family-owned river cruise brand AmaWaterways prides itself on its fleet of more than two dozen exquisite vessels. Bikers are required to wear helmets. 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. Theres just one main restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You May Like: Cruises From Los Angeles To Hawaii Round Trip. Black Sea Voyage with AmaWaterways: What's It Like? The only slight difference is that with AmaWaterways placing emphasis on their excellent onboard evening entertainment and unlimited premium spirits, it makes a better choice for those who like to enjoy the nightlife onboard the ships. $1-$3 is suggested for guides but I usually gave them 5 Euros. AmaWaterways has safari cruises in Africa, wine cruises in Europe, and cruises with focuses like golf, ancestry, classical music, and more. How is your coffee on board? Christmas Markets Cruise with Samantha Brown. 2015-2023 AmaWaterways. 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. Active is for very fit travelers wishing more intensity and a faster pace. 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. Award-winning dining experiences are offered in four different restaurant options aboard the ship. 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. Plus, be treated to a variety of live performances on this melodious journey. Both suggest gratuities of around 2 euros for tour guides and one euro for bus drivers. How Do AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Compare on Itineraries and Fleet? Cabin categories for Viking and AmaWaterways are pretty similar and vary from a standard riverview cabin with small windows all the way to suites with French and walk-out balconies. 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. Uniworlds fleet consists of 17 ships, most of which are quite similar in size. While most river companies offer just one basic excursion, AmaWaterways has choices for extras including culinary choices and more adventurous offerings such as escorted bike trips. The word inclusive gets thrown around a lot, but what exactly does it mean? Expanded to North America and now has itineraries for many ports around the globe. Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. Still have questions? 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 The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. AmaWaterways - 24 Reviews - TourRadar Explore the heart of 15 fascinating European countries on an enthralling 49-night journey. One of the best seats in the house onboard Viking's Longships, the Aquavit Terrace beautifully combines indoor/outdoor dining with a casual feel. I thought it may help to understand what's included on an Ama River Cruise. [2] Roughly twice as wide as other cruise ships on the Danube,[12] the AmaMagna is meant to offer passengers more roomy accommodations and more dining options than would be possible on a narrower river cruise ship.[4]. Heres what you need to know. We invite our loyal past guests to join us once again on these special Loyalty Cruises, offering unique experiences in multiple ports, commemorative gifts, and many more surprises and delights. Quite often local food and afternoon tea are provided too. If youre looking for honeymoon cruise options, you may want to check out our article 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises and Cruise Lines. She is awesome!!! Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. The AmaSienas home river is the Rhine in Europe. Because the unique cities that you reach by river boat mean that you can walk into glorious locations such as Vienna and Budapest. The closet and drawers were roomy. Theres usually a musical performance after dinner in the lounge in the evenings. Sandals Cabana Rental: All You Need to Know 2023, Is Santorini Worth It? In addition, should it happen to rain during your river cruise, we have umbrellas available for you to use onshore. About Us Contact Work With Us Contact An Agent. Bathrooms have heated floors, a surprising and wonderful detail, especially in the middle of the night. The ships even have a "gluten-free corner," where passengers can find snacks at all hours of the day. Sandi Barrett 2. Both include toiletries: Ama supplies Hydro brand shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap and lotion, while Viking provides Freyja amenities. Thank you Dani for knowing how to make things happen and always willing to go the extra mile to make our vacation special! Right outside Amsterdam, this rare experience calls for its visitors to explore, touch and change as part of their journey into Floriade which is set to feature stunning gardens, innovative sustainable gardening exhibits, live entertainment, talk shows, souvenirs and food stalls. For more helpful information by destination, click here. that with our Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. Began as a tour group operating in Europe. The Black Sea Voyage shows you a different side of Europe Eastern Europe, with its recent scars and growing pains. All business is transacted under VAT Number: 246 2003 43, AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, GERMANY, HUNGARY, SLOVAKIA, AUSTRIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, GERMANY, HUNGARY, AUSTRIA, BULGARIA, CROATIA, HUNGARY, ROMANIA, SERBIA, CZECH REPUBLIC, FRANCE, GERMANY, LUXEMBOURG, CZECH REPUBLIC, FRANCE, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, FRANCE, GERMANY, NETHERLANDS, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, GERMANY, HUNGARY, NETHERLANDS, SLOVAKIA, AUSTRIA, BULGARIA, CROATIA, GERMANY, HUNGARY, ROMANIA, SERBIA, SLOVAKIA, BULGARIA, CROATIA, HUNGARY, ROMANIA, SERBIA, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, GERMANY, NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM, LUXEMBOURG, AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, CROATIA, SERBIA, BULGARIA, ROMANIA, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, GERMANY, NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM, LUXEMBOURG, AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, CROATIA, SERBIA, BULGARIA, ROMANIA, MOLDOVA, BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA, SOUTH AFRICA, ZIMBABWE, BOTSWANA, NAMIBIA, SOUTH AFRICA, TANZANIA, ZIMBABWE, FRANCE, GERMANY, THE NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM, SWITZERLAND, LUXEMBOURG, CZECH REPUBLIC, AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, CROATIA, SERBIA, ROMANIA, BULGARIA, MOLDOVA, CZECH REPUBLIC, FRANCE, GERMANY, LUXEMBOURG, SWITZERLAND, With Emmy-winning Travel Expert Samantha Brown. All meals are included in your fare. 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. Unpack once and experience this extraordinary voyage on one award-winning ship, our beautiful AmaMora. How Reassuring are New Cruise Cancellation Policies Really? Good to know: If the weather is nice, theyll have an ice cream party on the top deck once per cruise. There is, however, an exception when it comes to DIYing your own itinerary. It serves an ever-changing menu inspired mainly by local cuisinethink semmelkndel, or bread dumplings, while sailing through Germany might be paired with a local beer or wine . Also for those with mobility issues, or indeed families with young children AmaWaterways offer gentle trips. Those looking to get their hearts pumping might choose an active tour, which could include a little more mileage or climbs up stairs or other steep inclines, or the pace might simply be slightly faster. These Piano Deck cabins with fixed windows are the smallest onboard at just 160 square feet. 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. 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. Prague Add-on for AmaWaterways Worth it? - River Cruising - Cruise AmaWaterways has curated a diverse menu of included shore excursions, from walking tours for gentle, regular and active guests to guided hikes and bike rides. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. AmaWaterways also sails the Chobe River in Africa. In that case, its best to pick an excursion to hitch a ride. When you consider that most Europeans ride bikes everywhere, its no surprise there are wide paved bike paths throughout every port of call. 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 the case of AmaWaterways, and the AmaSiena in particular, bike tours are a highlight. FYI: My wife and now have been to 55 countries together as a couple! Fewer guests onboard means less packed amenities and tours. Explore the rich history of classical music along the Danube River where famous composers lived, worked and performed. But also a great time to take advantage of complimentary pre dinner drinks which consist of champagne, wine, beer and specially selected cocktails. [2], Unusually for river cruises, there are hair salons on AmaWaterways ships,[2] as well as spas, gyms, and libraries. The bed and pillows were of nice quality and comfortable. However, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises more than delivers on this! [3] Schreiner was still the president and co-owner of the company as of 2018. The difference is in the auditorium or theatre that is used. Although most river cruise lines promote themselves as all-inclusive the meaning of all-inclusive tends to vary by operator by that, I mean some river cruise lines are in fact more inclusive than others! In addition, you may choose to reserve a complimentary bicycle to pedal further along the river or into any port city. 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). We have in place an exemption process that may result in a small number of guests onboard who are not fully . Within Europe, Viking offers cruises to a number of different countries, including France, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Romania and Portugal. AmaWaterways is another well-known and luxurious river cruise line, with a fleet of 26 ships. What kind of equipment is available inside your fitness rooms? Breakfast is served with fresh juices and sparkling wines so that every day starts off with a touch of luxury. 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 However, these lines have tailored their offerings, making them more inclusive for North Americans while keeping pricing a la carte for Europeans. In the main lounge, there is 24-hour access to tea and coffee making facilities including hot chocolate and herbal/fruit teas. In the river cruise world, the lines that have more amenities bundled into the price tend to -- not coincidentally -- be more luxurious and expensive. Again, this isnt a new concept, but one that AmaWaterways has done to perfection. Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity: Which Cruise Line Is Best for You. Part of what makes river cruising so attractive -- and pricy -- is that more items such as shore excursions, Wi-Fi or wine at meals are already wrapped into the cost (of course, if you don't drink, you might feel annoyed at having to pay for all your fellow passengers getting their glasses topped off). AmaWaterways - Wikipedia That leaves plenty of room for lounging, either in full sun or under shade. For river cruises in 2023 and 2024, AmaWaterways is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination to board our ships. Transfers between your hotel and your ship Reserve your Complimentary Land Package now before March 31st to enjoy this limited-time offer! You are the best. [7] Outside Europe, their ships cruise the Mekong and Chobe rivers. Overall, the ship has an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. Uniworld has family cruises, floating art workshops, heritage cruises, mystery cruises, among others. Cabins on AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Vary Dramatically, Dining on AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises' Dining Draw Similarities. 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. Ukraine, Russia, and Egypt are also scheduled countries for Viking River Cruises. As most of your daylight hoursand sometimes evening hourswill be spent off the ship, AmaSiena offers limited onboard activities. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. Overall, the ship has an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. The Shore Excursions. AmaWaterways excursions generally have three levels: a gentle-walking group, the general group and the active group. Carving out a niche in the upscale segment of the river cruise industry, AmaWaterways is luxurious in many ways, yet with a contemporary, comfortable vibe. Courtesy of AmaWaterways. It has the greatest selection of drinks to passengers on its 14 ships based in Europe. What's Included In Your Fare On An AmaWaterways River Cruise? AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . There's also space at the Aquavit Terrace. AmaSiena joins AmaWaterways legacy of upscale yet relaxed river cruises that cater to more active couples or mature multi-gen groups. Viking Cruises started with a fleet of four ships from Russia and has expanded to operating a fleet of more than 60 vessels on three continents. The venue that AmaWaterways uses isnt too far from the dock, has excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. AmaWaterways' New All-Inclusive Packages - River Cruise Advisor Also, both lines offer specific family cruises throughout the year that include additional activities for kids, so this may be something to check into. While many river lines showcase local wines from the region of sailing, AmaWaterways does that but it also has offers dedicated Wine Cruises 67 such themed cruises in 2020. Viking River Cruises invests in finding some unique shore excursions. These include Tauck, Scenic, APT and Crystal, followed by Uniworld and AmaWaterways. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. You will find free high speed WiFi in your cabin and throughout the ship. But there arent many activities for children, so younger kids might find the experience a little dry. These small staterooms on the Cello and Violin decks have French balconiesthat is, the floor-to-ceiling window-door slides open entirely. 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. There is a cancellation fee of $100 payable on sailings cancelled 121 days or more before the sailing date, which increases on a sliding scale closer to the departure. Thats typically a U.S. vintner who sails and lectures onboard as well as brings hand-selected vintages for guests to taste. Learn how your comment data is processed. Natalie and I went on their Black Sea Voyage and here are my 10 reasons to go on a lower Danube cruise, specifically. Color palates are subdued, relying on shades of gray, cream and steel blue along with neutral woods.