Cruise & Cruise Line

3 Reasons to Embark on an AmaWaterways River Cruise During the Off Season

Image: AmaWaterways in Durnstein (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
Image: AmaWaterways in Durnstein (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
TravelPulse Staff
by TravelPulse Staff
Last updated: 5:00 AM ET, Wed November 15, 2023

Leading the way in innovation, AmaWaterways is an award-winning river cruise line sailing through Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, a daily cocktail hour and nightly entertainment included in the fare, a large percentage of satisfied guests return to the line each year.  

Even when coming back to the same river, guests find that the time of year in which they travel can transform a destination into an all-new experience. Here are some benefits to immersing yourself in the unique cultures along the rivers of Europe with AmaWaterways during what many consider the off-season months of travel: November and February.

1. Hidden Seasonal Gems 

Fall is grape harvest season in many wine regions, and traveling during this time can provide unique opportunities for wine tastings and culinary experiences. November welcomes the wine harvest and all the celebrations this annual event brings. As the new wine from the season’s harvest begins to flow in November, Austrian Heurigers spring to life, inviting all who visit to share in the magical ambience of these seasonal celebrations on the Danube River. 

Many of AmaWaterways’ November itineraries cruise during American Thanksgiving, so in the spirit of the holiday, you can savor a full-fledged Thanksgiving meal on board, complete with all the trimmings you know and love. Bring along your family and celebrate together as you always would – but leave the cleanup to the ship’s extraordinary crew! 

In February, romance is in the air, and there is no better way to spend the month of love than gliding along the enchanting rivers of Europe. Take in picturesque scenes such as the half-timbered homes along La Petite France in Strasbourg, the charming Krumlov Castle in Český Krumlov, Czech Republic or the thermal spas in Budapest, Hungary with the people you cherish on our included excursions. This is also the perfect time to celebrate you and your life partner by adding AmaWaterways’ Vow Renewal Package, complete with two 1-hour massages, a special ceremony and more!    

Wine experiences onboard with AmaWaterways

Wine experiences onboard with AmaWaterways (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)

2. A More Intimate Experience 

Cruising the rivers of Europe in February and November offers diminished crowds, which means more space to explore the destinations you visit during your journey. During this time, guests can enjoy unique travel experiences on small, guided group tours as well as idyllic seasonal scenery along the rivers. With a variety of intimate museum tours, culinary experiences and sightseeing excursions included in your river cruise fare with AmaWaterways, you can engage more deeply with Europe's cultural heritage, creating memories that last a lifetime. 

After spending the day in less crowded destinations, you will return to your spacious luxury ship to relax. AmaWaterways’ ships welcome an average of 156 guests on board each sailing, and during November and February, there will likely be even fewer people on board, giving you the opportunity to enjoy even more space – both on board and onshore. 

Travelers can have a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.

Travelers can have a more intimate experience with fewer crowds. (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)

3. AmaWaterways Exclusive Experiences – All Year Round! 

Whenever you choose to embark on a river cruise with AmaWaterways, you can experience special excursions that are exclusive to this river cruise line. Along the Rhine River, explore Lahneck Castle on a private tour and take in the impressive view of Lahnstein, Germany and the river below. No other river cruise line visits this captivating castle, so walking through the castle grounds and learning more about its fascinating history is truly a treat! 

When cruising the Danube River, guests will find themselves immersed in a unique all-year-round Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, Germany. Partake in an evening of authentic Bavarian celebration with hearty beer, warm bretzels and live entertainment. Guests can also savor some of Austria’s finest white wines while in Spitz – an experience exclusive to the line’s Magna on the Danube itinerary. The special Danube River sailing was specifically designed for the innovative AmaMagna, a spectacular, one-of-a-kind ship that redefines the river cruising experience. 

Reserve your stateroom on select 2023 and 2024 AmaWaterways river cruises in Europe and Asia before December 31, 2023, and receive 20% off your river cruise fare–combinable with the line’s limited-time AirPlus fixed rates on flights to Europe. Contact your preferred travel advisor and start planning your journey today! 



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