New and Unique Options Abound with AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways is poised to deliver its most exciting year on record in 2019. Grabbing the headlines are new ships and expanded programming offering more choices than ever on the rivers of Europe. Those choices begin with three new ships: AmaDouro, AmaMagna and AmaMora.

AmaMagna debuts on the Danube in May 2019 and she is sure to turn heads. Twice the width of traditional European river cruise ships, her size sets her apart. More personal space, larger suites — most measuring over 355 square feet — more dining options and other exceptional amenities add up to a unique river experience.

AmaWaterways will also expand its presence in Portugal with the new AmaDouro. Also new is the AmaMora, set to debut on the Rhine.

In addition to the three new ships, AmaWaterways is all about new experiences in 2019.

For guests looking to augment their river cruise with unique shoreside activities, the Concierge Golf Program is a good fit. The program aboard AmaMagna offers the chance to golf at five courses in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic. What’s more, guests are transported from ship to golf course via luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle. The Concierge Golf Program is available on Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube itineraries from May to mid-October.

Over the years, AmaWaterways has developed a stellar reputation for its unique and innovative wine cruise programming. In 2019, the line will expand that program to offer more than 60 hosted Wine Cruises. In addition to specially-selected wine hosts, the cruises feature onboard wine tasting and discussions, plus customized shore excursions to acclaimed cellars, vineyards and wineries. The cruises also feature unique epicurean experiences in such notable cities as Basel, Nuremberg and Budapest.

The lineup of AmaWaterways Wine Cruises for 2019 include itineraries in France’s Bordeaux, Burgundy and Alsace regions; Germany’s Moselle and Rhine valleys; Austria’s Wachau; and Portugal’s Douro River area.

Fortunately, guests needn’t worry about over-indulging while on board. In 2019, the line is expanding its Wellness Program to all European river cruises (except the Douro). Led by trained Wellness Hosts, guests can join group exercise activities such as morning stretches, core strengthening and resistance band workouts. Healthy dining options are also available.

And, for those looking for the ultimate in active cruising, AmaWaterways and tour operator Backroads have the answer. In 2019, Backroads will offer nearly 70 AmaWaterways departures that include biking and walking tours along the Danube, Douro, Rhine and Seine. Some of the cruises are tailored specifically for couples, families and solo travelers.

AmaWaterways’ innovative programming for 2019 extends to land options, as well. New in 2019, the line will offer an optional pre-cruise land extension on every departure. That brings an array of new ways to explore cities such as Amsterdam, Budapest, Lucerne, Munich, Zurich and Reykjavik.

AmaWaterways is adding new pre-cruise extensions in Bilbao and San Sebastian, Spain prior to embarkation on its Taste of Bordeaux itinerary. Another new land option is a post-cruise stay in Rwanda, Africa, which may be added to the Zambezi Queen itineraries on the Chobe River. Guests who take part in the four-night Rwanda extension can experience Kigali and Volcanoes National Park, home to the legendary silverback mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.