AmaWaterways

Is this the Apple of river cruising?

AmaWaterways is one of the world's most respected river cruise lines, consistently mentioned alongside Viking as a top choice for river cruising. Seriously, if you go to Cruise Critic or Reddit, you will see that these guys get great reviews. And we're adding our $0.02 as well! With a fleet of approximately 30 modern ships, AmaWaterways is all about itineraries across Europe, Africa, Egypt and beginning in 2026, Colombia in South America. The cruise line sails over 15 rivers including the Danube, Douro, Seine, Rhine and Nile.

AmaWaterways has a lot included in your base fare, by the way. While not technically all-inclusive, cruises include complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour snack stations with coffee and soft drinks and most importantly, shore excursions at every port. Guests can choose from up to eight different excursions daily, each categorized by intensity level, ranging from chill hikes and bike tours to private shows. Alcoholic beverages are included during lunch, dinner and designated cocktail hours, though gratuities are not included.

Their ships accommodate approximately 150 guests, meaning that there is a good chance that you will have a peaceful time onboard and plenty of space to walk and relax. Their modern ships feature swimming pools or whirlpools, massage rooms, hair salons, fitness centers and several dining venues. Staterooms are spacious with huge bathrooms and newer ships offer amenities rarely seen on river cruises including pickleball courts and mini-golf.

AmaWaterways also holds the distinction of being the only river cruise line with membership in La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a culinary organization that makes sure that dining and snacks onboard always get a 10/10. Of course that food wouldn't be as good if service was lacking, but AmaWaterways also gets awards in that area. The professionals on each ship are well trained and create a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you step onboard, with staff often remembering your name by the second day.

Prices vary based on destination and itinerary, typically starting around $2,000 per person for Rhine cruises, reaching $3,000-$3,800 for other European Cruises and climbing to $5,500 for cruises across the Nile.

AmaWaterways attracts primarily to travelers aged 50 and above looking for an elegant, classy and upscale experience. Ships offer connecting staterooms and private balconies, making them a great option for groups traveling together.

Do keep in mind that AmaWaterways is probably not the best choice for families with children. There are no kids' clubs, there's limited entertainment for young passengers, and most guests are couples in their 60s that just want to sit down with a drink in hand and relax. Those looking for Broadway-style shows or hundreds of onboard activities will find options limited to small shows, board & card games and so on.

For travelers considering their first river cruise or that want a trusted name in the industry, AmaWaterways represents a safe, great choice combining exceptional service, good food, complimentary excursions and nice ships. If you know nothing about river cruising, you could safely close your eyes, pick AmaWaterways and you'd have a great time, plain and simple.