Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. Part of what makes river cruising so attractive -- and pricy -- is that more items such as shore excursions, Wi-Fi or wine at meals are already wrapped into the cost (of course, if you don't drink, you might feel annoyed at having to pay for all your fellow passengers getting their glasses topped off). While our fitness rooms vary from ship to ship, they will typically include a treadmill, elliptical machine or spin bike, as well as an assortment of free weights. The ship also sails seven-night itineraries through Holland and Belgium. In the main lounge, there is 24-hour access to tea and coffee making facilities including hot chocolate and herbal/fruit teas. Breakfast lunch and dinner are usually at set times, although there is more flexibility around breakfast and lunch. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. I will book all future trips with only her. The itineraries are what truly make the experience of a river cruise. Fewer guests onboard means less packed amenities and tours. [2] It had a fleet of 26 ships as of 2022. The clientele of a cruise can vary widely depending on the cruise line, and even the itinerary, but both Uniworld and AmaWaterways tend to attract similar guests. Its difficult to feel hungry on The AmaMagna there are always snack available somewhere on the ship. in multiple ports, commemorative gifts, and many more surprises and delights. FYI: My wife and now have been to 55 countries together as a couple! Its likely youve heard of Uniworld River Cruises and AmaWaterways. It serves an ever-changing menu inspired mainly by local cuisinethink semmelkndel, or bread dumplings, while sailing through Germany might be paired with a local beer or wine . Viking's sun decks offer more space, in part because the area isn't used for pools or storing bicycles. Contact. There is an up-charge for this optional tour but its a MUST-SEE experience. AmaViola and AmaStella also feature a number of connecting cabins, designed with families in mind. Have you cruised with Uniworld or AmaWaterways? Viking requires a $500 nonrefundable deposit, with final payment due 90 days before the cruise is scheduled to begin (a 20 percent deposit of the full fare is required for World and Grand Cruise itineraries with payment 180 days prior to departure). The word "inclusive" gets thrown around a lot, but what exactly does it mean? Steinman emphasizes that these wine cruises have all the tours that would be available on a regular cruise, yet guests also can enjoy special wine tastings, wine pairings and interaction with a special wine host. AmaWaterways boats feature small (one-room) spas, where moderately priced massages are offered, and salons along with fitness centers, which are moderately used. Through financial support to the school, AmaWaterways sponsorship brings English-language skills to local children of grammar-school age to help improve their lives and assist with subsequent employment opportunities. Guests reserving our optional land packages will also find daily breakfast at their hotel included in the price of their package. For river cruises in 2023 and 2024, AmaWaterways is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination to board our ships. The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. Good to know: If the weather is nice, theyll have an ice cream party on the top deck once per cruise. Modern coaches provide the primary mode of transportation for each, though Viking's are branded with the cruise line's logo and photos of the ships or exotic locations (making them easily identifiable among the crowd), while only some of AmaWaterways' buses are branded. Europe can be quite warm in the summer, so short sleeve shirts, shorts, skirts, sundresses and a wide-brimmed hat are good items to pack. In fact, you might be wondering, which is better, AmaWaterways or Uniworld? She covers various destinations, hotels, and travel products for TripSavvy. The venue that AmaWaterways uses isnt too far from the dock, has excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Generally speaking the half board we experienced sailing with AmaWaterways felt very much like almost all inclusive. There are a lot of river cruise lines to choose from, so do your research to find the ship and company that meets your needs. There was no detail that she missed. [1] History[ edit] In that case, its best to pick an excursion to hitch a ride. Tea and coffee are generally included throughout the day and many ships also provide bottled water free of charge. More of what makes AmaWaterways different: Spacious river view staterooms and suites range from 160 square feet to 710 square feet and most include the revolutionary signature twin balconiesa French balcony and a full outside balcony. We had a great time and will be returning with friends!!! The Black Sea Voyage shows you a different side of Europe Eastern Europe, with its recent scars and growing pains. With an innovative product and rapidly-growing fleet of custom-designed ships, the line enjoys a reputation as the leader in river cruising. Cabin categories for Viking and AmaWaterways are pretty similar and vary from a standard riverview cabin with small windows all the way to suites with French and walk-out balconies. Award-winning dining experiences are offered in four different restaurant options aboard the ship. Learn how your comment data is processed. Heres what else you can expect from each room, from least expensive to most. If youre not sure about a river cruise and want to investigate ocean cruise lines, you might be interested in these articles: Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian, Carnival Cruise vs Royal Caribbean, Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity, Are Viking Cruises Adults Only, and Royal Caribbean vs. Princess. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. We use cookies to analyse our traffic, enhance our websites functionality and performance and provide a better experience for our users. What if I want to explore a port on my own are we required to stay with the group on AmaWaterways excursions? Both lines offer a variety of amenities that are standard between ships. Thank you Eric for recommending this fantastic Resort, a fitting finish to our trip. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. We recommend AmaWaterways for families and young adults. As a California-headquartered cruise line, AmaWaterways typically attracts a North American clientele, which holds for the AmaSienas passengers. Based on the overwhelmingly positive response received from the announcement of our first-ever Soulful Epicurean Experience on the Rhne River in 2023, we are delighted to announce two new opportunities for guests to celebrate their heritage and discover Black history and culture along the rivers with us in 2024. Both lines offer concierge services, books to borrow on topics like history or tourism, comfortable bars for drinks and dancing and top-deck walking tracks and giant chess boards. Otherwise, youll have plenty of time for peaceful contemplation in the lounge. Select itineraries, such as our Secrets of Egypt & the Nile, Enticing Douro and Flavors of Portugal & Spain sailings, also include a select number of meals on shore. Right outside Amsterdam, this rare experience calls for its visitors to explore, touch and change as part of their journey into Floriade which is set to feature stunning gardens, innovative sustainable gardening exhibits, live entertainment, talk shows, souvenirs and food stalls. AmaWaterways Exclusive Concierge Golf Program is available on select Romantic Danube and Melodies of the Danube cruises sailing aboard the AmaMagna. [2] It had a fleet of 26 ships as of 2022. How Does AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Compare on Price, Inclusions and Booking Policies? Thank you! This was our first adult All-Inclusive resort and it was the best ever. The suites are extremely spacious great for passengers who want larger accommodations, adds Steinman, noting that even lower deck cabins are 200 plus square feet. And there are plenty of locks. Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Founded in 2002, this European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation . This allows for more choice, enabling you to find just the right cruise and ship for you. Fresh local dishes and favorite drinks are stocked on board at every location to make you feel like . [1][2] Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. For example, they'll include shore excursions and waiter served dinners for Americans and Canadians, while these remain pay-as-you-go for Europeans. However, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises more than delivers on this! There's just one main restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Viking offers a beverage package option, called the Silver Spirits package, which runs about $30 per person per day and allows passengers to drink unlimited premium wine, spirits and beer while onboard. As with any cruise type, the cost can vary depending on the itinerary, dates, and ship youre on. Any additional drinks, such as premium alcoholic beverages, can be ordered at any time and added to your onboard account. Ama feels very much a premium product, however is well worth the price. We stayed at the Dreams Resort & Spa in La Romana, Dominican Republic and it was perfect for our family reunion of our former foreign exchange students. [1], AmaWaterways was co-founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner, Jimmy Murphy, and Kristin Karst. The next deck is the Cello Deck, home to staterooms and the main restaurant, followed by the Violin deck, with more staterooms, reception, the lounge, a gift shop, and the Chefs Table restaurant. Resort was stunning , food and entertainment was great, and the staff were incredible. We invite you to take one of our European river cruises, Asia river cruises, or Africa river cruises and see the world in luxury and comfort. Both offer exceptional dining, great entertainment and activities, and a luxurious experience. [2] Roughly twice as wide as other cruise ships on the Danube,[12] the AmaMagna is meant to offer passengers more roomy accommodations and more dining options than would be possible on a narrower river cruise ship.[4]. How To Cope With Cruising's Pause? When comparing Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways, its hard to decide which is better. (Probably Overrated). They run around lunch and breakfast schedules, thus allowing you to pop on board for a sport of lunch or indeed head in to town for lunch and some time exploring. Most AmaWaterways ships average between 158 to 164 passengers. In addition, should it happen to rain during your river cruise, we have umbrellas available for you to use onshore. Beer and wine with lunch and dinner, sparkling wine with breakfast on all European river cruises. AmaWaterways is currently operating our river cruise ships with vaccination rates approaching 100%. Both cruise lines are all-inclusive and provide excellent service, meaning that no matter which one you choose, it is guaranteed to be worth the money. Included tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides 5. We will be happy to provide you with a map of each port at our reception desk, and you will find the citys highlights marked. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. The tours are amazing, but the excursions are even more so, giving you many fun, interesting, and adrenaline rushing activities to participate in. Also included is their onboard wellness program, shore excursions, and WiFi. What's Included in Your AMAWaterways River Cruise. AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . Many River Cruises Work On A Full Board Basis, but on an AmaWaterways River Cruise full board covers A LOT. I had the chance to sail the new vessel on its first sailing. [4], AmaWaterways cruise ships ply a number of rivers in Europe, including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro,[2] Moselle, Main,[5] Garonne,[6] and Rhne. She frequently sails seven-night itineraries between Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Basel, Switzerland, sailing through Germanys scenic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with castles. And each day you will be treated to a complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks. The wine host also accompanies guests during vineyard tours and tastings ashore. AmaWaterways also sails the Chobe River in Africa. She sings and entertains to a variety of familiar songs from around the world. In 2023 it will launch a series of 46-night sailings through Europe on four ships and in 2024 will become the first line to offer sailings on Colombia's Magdalena River. General What's Included What's Included - AmaWaterways Your AmaWaterways Package Includes: All meals on board Comfortable accommodations Ocean transportation Entertainment and daily activities Port charges Europe Cruises Coffee, tea & complimentary bottled water Local wines, soft drinks and beer during lunch and dinner Complimentary Wi-Fi Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity: Which Cruise Line Is Best for You. Those looking to get their hearts pumping might choose an active tour, which could include a little more mileage or climbs up stairs or other steep inclines, or the pace might simply be slightly faster. A-Rosa does include all alcoholic drinks and gratuities -- measures that appeal to its primarily European passengers. There are fitness classes (during COVID times, these were provided outdoors, weather permitting, rather than in the fitness center), massages and beauty treatments in the one-room spa and salon, a small pool, and an outdoor giant chess set. Alcohol (outside of meals and cocktail hour). First Vacation out of the country for my boyfriend and I and it was absolutely amazing. Then, there are the ships in Egypt and China, Vietnam, which the line either owns or charters. AmaWaterways requires a $400 deposit for Europe and Asia itineraries ($1,200 for Egypt sailings, $2,400 on Africa cruises and $2,400 for the extended Seven River Journey Through Europe itineraries). We chose the Black Sea Voyage since their AmaPrima ship, which was built in 2013, has 82 cabins that can hold a total of 162 passengers. An immense variety of ports means more unique travel destinations and options. Ships on both lines feature elevators, and some Viking ships have sun deck herb gardens, which chefs use daily. The pool areas were so pretty and the landscaping lovely. Weve curated a list of questions submitted by first-time river cruisers to give you a better picture of the unparalleled experiences youll have while sailing with us. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Thats typically a U.S. vintner who sails and lectures onboard as well as brings hand-selected vintages for guests to taste. There are four publicly accessible decks on the AmaSiena. There is a cancellation fee of $100 payable on sailings cancelled 121 days or more before the sailing date, which increases on a sliding scale closer to the departure. Theres also the Chefs Table, a 32-seat specialty restaurant with a panoramic view from the ship's stern that serves a five-course tasting menu. These may seem like low amounts, but its important to remember that river cruise ships are far smaller than regular-sized cruise ships. AmaWaterways' Seven River Journey Through Europe is scheduled to set sail on June 1, 2023, with prices starting at $25,999 per passenger. How? Personalized guest service that is beyond anything you could imagine. Combination river and ocean cruises are available that take you to other European countries like Spain, Denmark, and Norway. Opened in 2002, with 18 amazing years in operation. 800-626-0126. www.amawaterways.com. Most of our ships in Europe include a fleet of complimentary bikes for you to use on our guided bike tours or for your individual exploration ashore. 14 Days - Travel to Medellin and return from Panama City, 16 Days - Travel to Medellin and return from Panama City, AmaWaterways Ltd | Abbots Place Suite B | Walnut Tree Close | Guildford | GU1 4RW. With either line, passengers will find plenty of room for lounging, whether outdoors on the top deck or inside in the ships' lounges. River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. We also offer immersive culinary-themed Special Interest Tours such as cooking demonstrations and tastings. I just got off of an AmaWaterways European River Cruise with my wife after we were both invited to sail with them. The ship primarily sails the Rhine River through Western Europe, whisking guests to fairytale-esque towns and historic cities. One of the best ways of securing a better deal, however, is by booking via a cruise travel agent. Included in the fares of our featured AmaWaterways river cruises are shore excursions in every port of call all dining on board fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner internet access and Wi-Fi and bicycles that you can use to explore on your own or join our guided bike tours. Your cruise fare on both will include at least one shore excursion in each port; wine, beer and soda at lunch and dinner; all onboard meals; Wi-Fi; and cultural enrichment. Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Cost. In addition, AmaWaterways river cruises offer complimentary guided bicycle tours in at least two ports on every seven-night itinerary along the Rhine, Main, Danube and Rhne rivers. Uniworld offers unlimited premium spirits and wines, and AmaWaterways includes all drinks with meals plus a daily cocktail hour. AmaWaterways offers a huge selection of complimentary drinks onboard its European cruises. However, theres always plenty of flexibility while in port for adventures, from wine tastings to museum visits. Born in Austria, Schreiner always dreamed about building a larger river cruise vessel to sail the Danube, and now thats become a reality. No matter which company or type of cabin you choose, however, youre sure to enter a world of luxury as soon as you step on board. We really enjoyed Finest for our Destination Wedding and would highly recommend it as a wedding or vacation destination! Your email address will not be published. There is, however, an exception when it comes to DIYing your own itinerary. Smaller ships, such as the Queen Isabel, hold 116 guests, while larger ships, such as the SS Catherine, hold 162 passengers. What's Included In Your Fare On An AmaWaterways River Cruise? No need to dress for dinner here, and passengers don't have to show up at a set time, either. Final payment is due 90 days before the cruise. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, A River Cruise with a Butler: We Try It on Uniworld and Scenic, Beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch, dinner and happy hour, sparkling wine at breakfast, along with tea, gourmet coffee and bottled water, At least one complimentary shore excursion in every port (all excursions included on voyages in Africa), Special events, such as dinner in a castle, Complimentary entertainment on-demand in staterooms and suites, Some complimentary shore excursions, depending on itinerary, One-night hotel stay before trip on select itineraries, Hop-on, hop-off bus service in every port, Two dinners at the specialty restaurant, per cruise, Gratuities for crew and local guides and drivers, Butler service (for some suite categories), One bag of laundry per cabin on seven-night cruises; two bags per cabin for 14-night cruises (for guests in some suites on an APT Collection cruise on Aria or Concerto river ships), One waiter-served dinner (the rest of the meals are buffets -- you'll have to pay if you want a second served dinner). Wine, champagne, beer, sparking and still water and soft drinks are served throughout meal times, your glass never goes empty. As for accommodations, ultra-spacious suites account for more than 50 percent of AmaMagnas accommodations. Both include toiletries: Ama supplies Hydro brand shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap and lotion, while Viking provides Freyja amenities. 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Entertainers will board the ship at various locks along the route, with their driver dropping them off at one lock and picking up the performers further down the river at another lock. Both AmaWaterways and Uniworld offer Christmas cruises of the markets in Europe. The closet and drawers were roomy. Theyre all exterior cabins decorated in the ships signature red-and-gray color palette, equipped with hairdryers, safes, telephones, TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, a desk and chair, and a (somewhat cramped) en-suite bathroom with a shower. AmaWaterways has curated a diverse menu of included shore excursions, from walking tours for gentle, regular and active guests to guided hikes and bike rides. The greeters was great! The Shore Excursions. Furthermore should you have work to keep up with or just want to keep tabs with everyone at home. There was something for everyone this will be a vacation that we will talk about for the rest of our lives! Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. Our Programme takes you straight from your ship to the course and back making your golfing experience seamless Golf and River Cruise truly is a marriage made in heaven. Bed configuration for both lines is flexible: Two twins can be combined into one king. "AmaWaterways Announces Retirement of Gary Murphy, Senior Vice President of Sales, Promotes Alex Pinelo", "AmaWaterways Unveils Details of Newest Ship, AmaMagna", "AmaWaterways to debut new ship, new itineraries in 2021", "Down the Danube: What would a 20-something make of a river cruise? All of the tours are very interactive and high-end, offering you more than a regular tour ever could. Gentle is designed for those guests needing a slower pace and, at times if possible , even a bit less walking. Neither includes gratuities for crew or tour guides.. AmaWaterways suggests 100 euros per person per seven-night cruise (120 euros on AmaMagna), with an additional 25 euros per week-long sailing for the cruise manager. Wed already sailed on the Upper Danube with other companies and we wanted to visit new countries. The cruise begins in Budapest, Hungary, where you board the ship in the afternoon and start sailing after dark, when all the buildings and bridges along the Danube are illuminated. Unlike ocean cruises that may dock in industrial areas in Europe, a river ship docks right in the heart of the city, town or even village. The four 350-square-foot suites have separate living and sleeping spaces, the former of which has a pull-out sofa that can accommodate two extra guests.
amawaterways what is included
