river-cruises

Ama Means Love

“Ama” means love – and we put love in everything we do. Our family-owned and -operated river cruise line was built from passion and in the videos below, you will get a glimpse into the passion that has shaped our history, philosophy and vision for the future.

About AmaWaterways
Executive Vice President and Co-owner Kristin Karst talks about what makes AmaWaterways river cruises so special.
The AmaWaterways Story
AmaWaterways President, Founder and Co-Owner Rudi Schreiner’s love of design drew him to architecture, but his even greater love was traveling the world. Combining both of his passions, he became a driving force in modern-day river cruising, and in 2002, along with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, they created an unparalleled river cruise company.
Why AmaWaterways
In this beautiful video filmed in partnership with NBCUniversal, AmaWaterways Co-Founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst share their love for river cruising, as well as their personal thoughts on what makes the AmaWaterways experience so special. Plus, see inside the award-winning AmaMagna, redefining the river cruise experience on the Danube River.
Enhanced Health & Safety Measures
We understand how important it is for our guests to have peace of mind when planning their future river journeys. With our enhanced health and safety protocols now in place, guests are still enjoying a wonderful river cruise experience with AmaWaterways. We invite you to watch and learn more about what we are doing to support you so you can cruise with confidence along the world’s rivers.
Meet Cruise Manager Helene
With you every step of the way, AmaWaterways Cruise Managers love to share “insider advice” and “hidden treasures” while on the river, on shore, or at your hotel! Get to know Cruise Manager Helene, a native of Marseille, France, a great entertainer and passionate about travel.
Rudi Schreiner Inducted into the Hall of Fame
We’re all very proud of our President and Co-owner Rudi Schreiner. He was inducted into Cruise Lines International Association’s Hall of Fame for a lifetime of dedication to and achievement in river cruising.
An interview with AmaMagna Godmother, Samantha Brown
Cruise the Danube with AmaMagna’s Godmother, Samantha Brown, on July 14.

Destinations

From Europe to Southeast Asia to Africa, AmaWaterways carefully curates our river cruise itineraries, ensuring a variety of unforgettable and enriching experiences that connect you to the history, culture, gastronomy and people in every destination we visit.

Journey Along the Rhine & Moselle Rivers
Set sail through the castle-laden, legendary Rhine River and the vineyard-clad hills of the breathtaking Moselle River on an unforgettable AmaWaterways river cruise.
Wine Cruises
Our Wine Cruises are a unique and immersive way to combine all the wonder of Europe's famed regions with the rich history of winemaking and epicurean treasures found along its wondrous rivers.
Europe’s Christmas Markets
Every year, eager travelers journey to Europe to experience the yuletide season at its very best. With the backdrop of winter white hilltops, twinkling lights and extravagantly decorated cities, you'll undoubtedly get swept up in the enchantment and wonder that's in the air.
Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong River
Explore the exotic with our river cruises in Vietnam and Cambodia aboard the award-winning AmaDara. Unforgettable cultural experiences and wondrous sights await as you travel along the legendary Mekong River.
Africa Aboard the Zambezi Queen
Our Africa Safari and Wildlife Cruises are a one-of-a-kind way to experience this amazing destination. Combine a 4-night Chobe River cruise on the Zambezi Queen with stays at luxury game lodges, a visit to Victoria Falls and other unforgettable tours.
Samantha Brown, AmaMagna's Godmother, cruises along the Rhine and Moselle
Discover Samantha Brown's journey along the Rhine and Moselle. Learn how you can cruise on the brand-new AmaMagna along Europe’s legendary Danube River with Godmother Samantha Brown on July 14, 2019
Taste of Bordeaux
Come experience a Taste of Bordeaux on our luxury river cruise through this renowned region of France.
Cruise The Rhine
Cruise the beautiful Rhine River with AmaWaterways and discover a wealth of stunning scenery and rich history and culture.
Saint Emilion
Explore this charming French town and its verdant vineyards on our Taste of Bordeaux itinerary.
Roquetaillade Castle
Experience this historic castle on a luxury river cruise with us in the famed Bordeaux region of France.
The Loire Valley
Extend your Bordeaux river cruise with a fascinating post-cruise stay in the magnificent Loire Valley.

Ships

Spacious and uncrowded, our award-winning fleet offers elegantly-appointed staterooms and suites with our signature view-enhancing twin balconies. Enjoy exclusive amenities like massage services, a fitness room and a pool while on board. Indulge in award-winning cuisine at a variety of dining venues, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant — an experience you won’t find elsewhere.

AmaMagna Christening
The AmaMagna was ceremoniously christened on July 11, 2019 in Grein, Austria, in a history-making event that included local musicians and dancers, a blessing from a priest and the breaking of a bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull in accordance with nautical tradition.
AmaMagna—A Dream In The Making
Known as the innovators in luxury river cruising, AmaWaterways once again redefines the river cruise experience with the one-of-a-kind AmaMagna. Please enjoy this video showcasing AmaWaterways' history in the making.
AmaMora Christening
The AmaMora was christened on July 18, 2019 in Lahnstein, Germany. Co-Founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst were joined by Godmother Libbie Rice, president of Ensemble Travel Group, for a day of festivities officially commemorating the company’s third new ship launched during the 2019 season.
The AmaMagna is Redefining the Luxury River Cruise Experience
From the spacious balcony suites to the expansive Zen Wellness Studio, the AmaMagna is redefining the river cruise experience. With five bars, four unique restaurants – including the airy Al Fresco restaurant and Jimmy’s, a warm family-style dining venue – a heated sun-deck pool and whirlpool, the AmaMagna has quickly become the most luxurious cruise ship on the Danube River.
AmaMagna 3D Animation Video: Pushing Boundaries
Enjoy an exciting preview of AmaMagna’s innovative public spaces that showcases her immense Sun Deck, breezy Al Fresco Restaurant, ground-breaking Water Sports Platform, deck diagrams, pop-up elevator and more. Featuring realistic renderings, this animated video will show you how elegant AmaMagna will look as she cruises the Danube River beginning in May 2019.
Cruise in Luxury
An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than just the destination – it’s the journey. Our ships are inspired by luxury yachts so that you can enjoy an array of great features as you cruise along from one stunning place to the next. Because it’s not just about where you go. It’s how you get there that matters.
Tour AmaMagna with Godmother Samantha Brown
With five bars, four distinctive restaurants, an expansive Zen Wellness Studio and ultra-spacious balcony suites, AmaWaterways’ innovative river ship, the AmaMagna, is redefining the river cruise experience on Europe’s legendary Danube River. Join AmaMagna’s Godmother, travel expert and Emmy® award-winning host of PBS’s “Places to Love,” Samantha Brown, on a special tour of this luxurious ship.
Redefining River Cruising
Offering more luxurious suites, more unique dining experiences and more leisure opportunities than ever before, the extraordinary AmaMagna has something special for each of your traveling companions to enjoy.
Africa Aboard the Zambezi Queen
Our Africa Safari and Wildlife Cruises are a one-of-a-kind way to experience this amazing destination. Combine a 4-night Chobe River cruise on the Zambezi Queen with stays at luxury game lodges, a visit to Victoria Falls and other unforgettable tours.
Samantha Brown, AmaMagna's Godmother, cruises along the Rhine and Moselle
Discover Samantha Brown's journey along the Rhine and Moselle. Learn how you can cruise on the brand-new AmaMagna along Europe’s legendary Danube River with Godmother Samantha Brown on July 14, 2019
AmaWaterways Magnificent Europe Avid Cruiser
Join celebrated author and videographer Ralph Grizzle and follow the route of emperors and kings on our “Magnificent Europe” journey along three great rivers through five fascinating countries.
AmaDouro Christening
AmaWaterways christened its newest river cruise ship, AmaDouro, with a festive ceremony in Porto, Portugal. The special event was hosted by co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst. Honorary guest, Advantage Travel Partnership Chief Executive Officer and AmaDouro Godmother, Julia Lo Bue-Said was joined by respected travel industry partners, international media and other guests for the celebration.
Journey from Romania to The Netherlands
The extraordinary new AmaMagna has such grand dimensions that she could not sail narrow waterways to get from the shipyard in Serbia to her temporary home in Rotterdam—so she took an epic ocean voyage! Now in Rotterdam, AmaMagna is receiving the finishing design touches in such venues as her expansive Zen Wellness Studio and Jimmy’s Wine Bar Restaurant.
Christening the AmaSerena
Join the celebration as we christen the AmaSerena in Vilshofen, Germany with Godmother Michelle Fee. The song you hear was written just for our ship!
AmaKristina Christening
We recently celebrated a first look at the brand-new AmaKristina, which will debut on the Rhine in 2017. Our owners Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst were there for the festivities.

Included Experiences

When you sail aboard our award-winning ships, you’ll be treated to a variety of authentic shore excursions, exquisite cuisine and unparalleled service and amenities – all of which are included in the price of your river cruise. Here is just a taste of some of the wonderful experiences included in your river journey.

Cruise in Luxury
An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than just the destination – it’s the journey. Our ships are inspired by luxury yachts so that you can enjoy an array of great features as you cruise along from one stunning place to the next. Because it’s not just about where you go. It’s how you get there that matters.
Health & Wellness on the River
Travel and exercise are essential to your holistic wellness. You’ll benefit from the exercise expertise and guidance of our ‘Sports Scientist,’ Selina Wank, who leads our new Wellness Program on board the AmaLyra in 2017. We will roll out the most popular elements of this program in 2018.
Meet Cruise Manager Helene
With you every step of the way, AmaWaterways Cruise Managers love to share “insider advice” and “hidden treasures” while on the river, on shore, or at your hotel! Get to know Cruise Manager Helene, a native of Marseille, France, a great entertainer and passionate about travel.
Redefining River Cruising
Offering more luxurious suites, more unique dining experiences and more leisure opportunities than ever before, the extraordinary AmaMagna has something special for each of your traveling companions to enjoy.
Explore on Two Wheels
On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you can join guided bike tours or grab a bike from our ship and go out exploring on your own. It is a unique, active and immersive way to experience Europe.
Fine Dining
AmaWaterways river cruises offer multiple dining venues that showcase the finest ingredients from local towns you’ll visit along Europe’s great waterways. Experience AmaWaterways incredible cuisine for a taste of the good life.
Wine Cruises
Our Wine Cruises are a unique and immersive way to combine all the wonder of Europe's famed regions with the rich history of winemaking and epicurean treasures found along its wondrous rivers.
Life on Board
Your river cruise with AmaWaterways will be a luxurious experience from start to finish. After a day of discovery, it’s time to return to your ship. This is your floating sanctuary, and we’ve invested a lot to ensure that you will truly enjoy your time on board.

Wellness

We are passionate about ensuring every guest is able to enhance their best self during their river journey – and beyond. Learn more about our complimentary fleetwide wellness activities and even get active from home by viewing some of our easy fitness workouts hosted by our Corporate Wellness Host, Selina Wank.

Health & Wellness on the River
Travel and exercise are essential to your holistic wellness. You’ll benefit from the exercise expertise and guidance of our ‘Sports Scientist,’ Selina Wank, who leads our new Wellness Program on board the AmaLyra in 2017. We will roll out the most popular elements of this program in 2018.
Enjoy an at-home workout with AmaWaterways' Corporate Wellness Host, Selina
For those of you safe at home, especially those working long hours, we encourage you to take a break and watch this at-home workout video hosted by AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host, Selina.
Enhance your yoga moves with Champagne (and Wine!) with an at-home Workout
Join Selina, AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host as she adds more sparkle to your yoga practice with a glass of Champagne or wine. Discover how holding a glass of bubbly (or a beverage of your choice), enhances your core strength and improves balance, all while helping you get ready for “Happy Hour.”
Improving your Balance with AmaWaterways' Corporate Wellness Host, Selina
Enjoy some tips and exercises designed to enhance your balance in the comfort of your home with our Corporate Wellness Host, Selina.
7 Dimensions of Wellness
Be inspired by this animated video from AmaWaterways to make a holistic lifestyle change that impacts your wellness, reconnects you with the world and gets you moving!
Perfecting your posture with Selina, AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host with an at-home Workout
The timeless advice "Stand up straight" is something we all have probably heard at one time or another, and for very good reasons. The benefits of maintaining proper posture are numerous, including improving balance, minimizing back and neck pain, reducing muscle tension, building more core strength and enhancing breathing. Join Selina to learn a few simple posture improving exercises to do in the comfort of your home—no equipment needed.

Testimonials

We pride ourselves on having exceptionally high customer satisfaction. Our loyal guests enjoy returning to the rivers with us again and again – here are just a few of the reasons why they love AmaWaterways.

Paris & Normandy Guest Testimonials
Cruise the treasured Seine River exploring romantic Paris and stunning riverside towns like Giverny and Honfleur. See what travelers on our Paris & Normandy River Cruise had to say about this unforgettable experience!
Joanne Weir Testimonial
AmaWaterways proudly welcomed James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, international cooking teacher and renowned chef Joanne Weir on our Enchanting Rhine itinerary. See why she describes an AmaWaterways river cruise as a magical experience.
An interview with AmaMagna Godmother, Samantha Brown
Cruise the Danube with AmaMagna’s Godmother, Samantha Brown, on July 14.

All Videos

About AmaWaterways
Executive Vice President and Co-owner Kristin Karst talks about what makes AmaWaterways river cruises so special.
AmaMagna Christening
The AmaMagna was ceremoniously christened on July 11, 2019 in Grein, Austria, in a history-making event that included local musicians and dancers, a blessing from a priest and the breaking of a bottle of champagne on the ship’s hull in accordance with nautical tradition.
AmaMagna—A Dream In The Making
Known as the innovators in luxury river cruising, AmaWaterways once again redefines the river cruise experience with the one-of-a-kind AmaMagna. Please enjoy this video showcasing AmaWaterways' history in the making.
AmaMora Christening
The AmaMora was christened on July 18, 2019 in Lahnstein, Germany. Co-Founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst were joined by Godmother Libbie Rice, president of Ensemble Travel Group, for a day of festivities officially commemorating the company’s third new ship launched during the 2019 season.
The AmaMagna is Redefining the Luxury River Cruise Experience
From the spacious balcony suites to the expansive Zen Wellness Studio, the AmaMagna is redefining the river cruise experience. With five bars, four unique restaurants – including the airy Al Fresco restaurant and Jimmy’s, a warm family-style dining venue – a heated sun-deck pool and whirlpool, the AmaMagna has quickly become the most luxurious cruise ship on the Danube River.
The AmaWaterways Story
AmaWaterways President, Founder and Co-Owner Rudi Schreiner’s love of design drew him to architecture, but his even greater love was traveling the world. Combining both of his passions, he became a driving force in modern-day river cruising, and in 2002, along with Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, they created an unparalleled river cruise company.
Why AmaWaterways
In this beautiful video filmed in partnership with NBCUniversal, AmaWaterways Co-Founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst share their love for river cruising, as well as their personal thoughts on what makes the AmaWaterways experience so special. Plus, see inside the award-winning AmaMagna, redefining the river cruise experience on the Danube River.
AmaMagna 3D Animation Video: Pushing Boundaries
Enjoy an exciting preview of AmaMagna’s innovative public spaces that showcases her immense Sun Deck, breezy Al Fresco Restaurant, ground-breaking Water Sports Platform, deck diagrams, pop-up elevator and more. Featuring realistic renderings, this animated video will show you how elegant AmaMagna will look as she cruises the Danube River beginning in May 2019.
Cruise in Luxury
An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than just the destination – it’s the journey. Our ships are inspired by luxury yachts so that you can enjoy an array of great features as you cruise along from one stunning place to the next. Because it’s not just about where you go. It’s how you get there that matters.
Health & Wellness on the River
Travel and exercise are essential to your holistic wellness. You’ll benefit from the exercise expertise and guidance of our ‘Sports Scientist,’ Selina Wank, who leads our new Wellness Program on board the AmaLyra in 2017. We will roll out the most popular elements of this program in 2018.
Tour AmaMagna with Godmother Samantha Brown
With five bars, four distinctive restaurants, an expansive Zen Wellness Studio and ultra-spacious balcony suites, AmaWaterways’ innovative river ship, the AmaMagna, is redefining the river cruise experience on Europe’s legendary Danube River. Join AmaMagna’s Godmother, travel expert and Emmy® award-winning host of PBS’s “Places to Love,” Samantha Brown, on a special tour of this luxurious ship.
Journey Along the Rhine & Moselle Rivers
Set sail through the castle-laden, legendary Rhine River and the vineyard-clad hills of the breathtaking Moselle River on an unforgettable AmaWaterways river cruise.
Meet Cruise Manager Helene
With you every step of the way, AmaWaterways Cruise Managers love to share “insider advice” and “hidden treasures” while on the river, on shore, or at your hotel! Get to know Cruise Manager Helene, a native of Marseille, France, a great entertainer and passionate about travel.
Redefining River Cruising
Offering more luxurious suites, more unique dining experiences and more leisure opportunities than ever before, the extraordinary AmaMagna has something special for each of your traveling companions to enjoy.
Explore on Two Wheels
On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you can join guided bike tours or grab a bike from our ship and go out exploring on your own. It is a unique, active and immersive way to experience Europe.
Fine Dining
AmaWaterways river cruises offer multiple dining venues that showcase the finest ingredients from local towns you’ll visit along Europe’s great waterways. Experience AmaWaterways incredible cuisine for a taste of the good life.
Wine Cruises
Our Wine Cruises are a unique and immersive way to combine all the wonder of Europe's famed regions with the rich history of winemaking and epicurean treasures found along its wondrous rivers.
Europe’s Christmas Markets
Every year, eager travelers journey to Europe to experience the yuletide season at its very best. With the backdrop of winter white hilltops, twinkling lights and extravagantly decorated cities, you'll undoubtedly get swept up in the enchantment and wonder that's in the air.
Vietnam, Cambodia and the Mekong River
Explore the exotic with our river cruises in Vietnam and Cambodia aboard the award-winning AmaDara. Unforgettable cultural experiences and wondrous sights await as you travel along the legendary Mekong River.
Africa Aboard the Zambezi Queen
Our Africa Safari and Wildlife Cruises are a one-of-a-kind way to experience this amazing destination. Combine a 4-night Chobe River cruise on the Zambezi Queen with stays at luxury game lodges, a visit to Victoria Falls and other unforgettable tours.
Samantha Brown, AmaMagna's Godmother, cruises along the Rhine and Moselle
Discover Samantha Brown's journey along the Rhine and Moselle. Learn how you can cruise on the brand-new AmaMagna along Europe’s legendary Danube River with Godmother Samantha Brown on July 14, 2019
Paris & Normandy Guest Testimonials
Cruise the treasured Seine River exploring romantic Paris and stunning riverside towns like Giverny and Honfleur. See what travelers on our Paris & Normandy River Cruise had to say about this unforgettable experience!
Life on Board
Your river cruise with AmaWaterways will be a luxurious experience from start to finish. After a day of discovery, it’s time to return to your ship. This is your floating sanctuary, and we’ve invested a lot to ensure that you will truly enjoy your time on board.
AmaWaterways Magnificent Europe Avid Cruiser
Join celebrated author and videographer Ralph Grizzle and follow the route of emperors and kings on our “Magnificent Europe” journey along three great rivers through five fascinating countries.
Taste of Bordeaux
Come experience a Taste of Bordeaux on our luxury river cruise through this renowned region of France.
Cruise The Rhine
Cruise the beautiful Rhine River with AmaWaterways and discover a wealth of stunning scenery and rich history and culture.
Joanne Weir Testimonial
AmaWaterways proudly welcomed James Beard Award-winning cookbook author, international cooking teacher and renowned chef Joanne Weir on our Enchanting Rhine itinerary. See why she describes an AmaWaterways river cruise as a magical experience.
Rudi Schreiner Inducted into the Hall of Fame
We’re all very proud of our President and Co-owner Rudi Schreiner. He was inducted into Cruise Lines International Association’s Hall of Fame for a lifetime of dedication to and achievement in river cruising.
Saint Emilion
Explore this charming French town and its verdant vineyards on our Taste of Bordeaux itinerary.
Roquetaillade Castle
Experience this historic castle on a luxury river cruise with us in the famed Bordeaux region of France.
The Loire Valley
Extend your Bordeaux river cruise with a fascinating post-cruise stay in the magnificent Loire Valley.
AmaDouro Christening
AmaWaterways christened its newest river cruise ship, AmaDouro, with a festive ceremony in Porto, Portugal. The special event was hosted by co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst. Honorary guest, Advantage Travel Partnership Chief Executive Officer and AmaDouro Godmother, Julia Lo Bue-Said was joined by respected travel industry partners, international media and other guests for the celebration.
Journey from Romania to The Netherlands
The extraordinary new AmaMagna has such grand dimensions that she could not sail narrow waterways to get from the shipyard in Serbia to her temporary home in Rotterdam—so she took an epic ocean voyage! Now in Rotterdam, AmaMagna is receiving the finishing design touches in such venues as her expansive Zen Wellness Studio and Jimmy’s Wine Bar Restaurant.
Christening the AmaSerena
Join the celebration as we christen the AmaSerena in Vilshofen, Germany with Godmother Michelle Fee. The song you hear was written just for our ship!
AmaKristina Christening
We recently celebrated a first look at the brand-new AmaKristina, which will debut on the Rhine in 2017. Our owners Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst were there for the festivities.
An interview with AmaMagna Godmother, Samantha Brown
Cruise the Danube with AmaMagna’s Godmother, Samantha Brown, on July 14.
Enjoy an at-home workout with AmaWaterways' Corporate Wellness Host, Selina
For those of you safe at home, especially those working long hours, we encourage you to take a break and watch this at-home workout video hosted by AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host, Selina.
Enhance your yoga moves with Champagne (and Wine!) with an at-home Workout
Join Selina, AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host as she adds more sparkle to your yoga practice with a glass of Champagne or wine. Discover how holding a glass of bubbly (or a beverage of your choice), enhances your core strength and improves balance, all while helping you get ready for “Happy Hour.”
Improving your Balance with AmaWaterways' Corporate Wellness Host, Selina
Enjoy some tips and exercises designed to enhance your balance in the comfort of your home with our Corporate Wellness Host, Selina.
7 Dimensions of Wellness
Be inspired by this animated video from AmaWaterways to make a holistic lifestyle change that impacts your wellness, reconnects you with the world and gets you moving!
Perfecting your posture with Selina, AmaWaterways’ Corporate Wellness Host with an at-home Workout
The timeless advice "Stand up straight" is something we all have probably heard at one time or another, and for very good reasons. The benefits of maintaining proper posture are numerous, including improving balance, minimizing back and neck pain, reducing muscle tension, building more core strength and enhancing breathing. Join Selina to learn a few simple posture improving exercises to do in the comfort of your home—no equipment needed.
Experience More Connections
EXPLORE MORE
Seasonal Sparkles in Switzerland
Visit the Christmas Markets in Zurich and see how the city shines like its Swarovski decorations.
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From the Bridge
An exclusive interview with AmaLyra’s beloved Captain Geoffrey.
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Plenty of Potjie for Everyone
Believe in the magic of potjie with this South African oxtail stew recipe.
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