Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2012, AmaWaterways has proudly become the
premier way to experience the world’s most scenic waterways. With a trio of
industry pioneers at its helm, our fleet’s signature Twin and French balcony
staterooms and pampering amenities offer discriminating travelers unparalleled
comfort, convenience and style. In Europe some 20 years ago, river cruising
attracted just a few hundred passengers a year for brief cruises along the Rhine
and the Danube rivers. Today, people across the globe make the excitement of a
European river cruise part of their annual vacation plans. Many of the industry
ideals for excellent service, customized ships and guided cultural excursions
were developed by the leaders at AmaWaterways who have been onboard as fans and
visionaries from the very start.
AmaWaterways President Rudi Schreiner recalls the day back in September 1992 when
the newly built 106-mile Main-Danube Canal opened up a 3000-mile river network
between the North Sea and the Black Sea; initially built for the purpose of
freight shipping, the scope of river cruising widened before his eyes. For the
first time in history, a 14-night scenic river route between Amsterdam and
Budapest became a thrilling possibility. Starting in 1993, Schreiner designed
itineraries which have become industry standards. What was once a quick stint on
the Rhine or on the Danube was soon replaced by an inclusive European cruise
connecting 15 countries and numerous breathtaking towns. These itineraries have
become the best way to explore central Europe.
Throughout his trail-blazing career, Schreiner has lent his golden touch for many
years to several other river cruise lines and in 2002, Schreiner created his own
river cruise line that would showcase his lifelong travel experience and vast
knowledge of this developing market. He partnered with two other executive
leaders in the industry, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, and together they
founded our award-winning AmaWaterways.
Executive Vice President Kristin Karst brought leisure travel expertise from
eight years with American Express in Europe plus several years with another
river cruise line and exceptional knowledge of overseas travel as a native
German. Chairman Jimmy Murphy, founder of Brendan Tours in 1968, contributes his
industry knowledge and relationships to the development and management of
AmaWaterways.
