Please see ourTravel Entry Requirementspage for the most current details. AmaViola and AmaStella also feature a number of connecting cabins, designed with families in mind. During the day, passengers can skip the ship's dining room for buffet dining. [8] AmaWaterways is reportedly the only river cruise line to belong to the gourmet chain La Chane des Rtisseurs. Explore Danube River on two wheels with AmaWaterways included onboard bicycles, How Much Are Drinks On Viking River Cruises, Where Do Viking River Cruises Dock In Amsterdam, How To Get Off Viking Cruises Mailing List, Where Do River Cruise Ships Dock In Basel Switzerland, Cruises From Los Angeles To Hawaii Round Trip, 10 reasons to go on a lower Danube cruise, Which Is The Best River Cruise Company In Europe, Who Has The Best Alaska Land And Sea Cruises, Indoor glass-walled observation lounge at the front of the ship, Three meals a day and group shore tours included. Read on for a comparison of AmaWaterways vs. Uniworld, including their ships, itineraries, activities and entertainment, price range, and more, so that you can decide which river cruise line is best for you. AmaWaterways is a Calabasas, California based river cruise company that offers cruises in Europe, Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Egypt. The ship also sails seven-night itineraries through Holland and Belgium. Viking, whose president and founder, Torstein Hagan, is Norwegian, features comfortable, modern and minimalist styling. 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. First-time river cruisers may be under the assumption that river cruises arent as luxurious as other cruise types. This website uses cookies. Of course, the cabins vary from ship to ship, but Uniworlds cabins are quite unique. An immense variety of ports means more unique travel destinations and options. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Ultimately though, it really comes down to what appeals to you and where you want to travel. The great news is that you can do as many or little excursions are you want, dipping in and out of trips is a huge benefit. Your email address will not be published. On European itineraries Viking recommends 18 euros per person per day, which can be prepurchased or automatically added to the shipboard account. AmaWaterways excursions generally have three levels: a gentle-walking group, the general group and the active group. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. Ama's cabins in virtually every category are slightly bigger than Viking's. These excursions generally are limited to small groups and take you into smaller venues or provide immersive experiences that expose passengers to a port's culture and tradition on a deeper, often hands-on, level. In the river cruise world, its the term for amenities that are already part of your fare. Contact. AmaWaterways 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. Depending on the itinerary, they range from around $2000 per person to $5000 per person or more. Having cruised on an AmaWaterways River Cruise along the Danube River the differences between ocean and river cruising were surprising. Backroads even provides the high-end bikes for these sailings, set up for each person ahead of time based on factors like height, weight and cycling style. AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . Note that the Sun Deck is only accessible via stairs, not the elevators. [3] Schreiner was still the president and co-owner of the company as of 2018. The difference is in the auditorium or theatre that is used. Wed already sailed on the Upper Danube with other companies and we wanted to visit new countries. They have a larger variety of ship sizes than Uniworld, with the AmaDahlia holding 72 passengers and the AmaMagna holding 196. These include Tauck, Scenic, APT and Crystal, followed by Uniworld and AmaWaterways. 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. Ever-expanding family-owned river cruise brand AmaWaterways prides itself on its fleet of more than two dozen exquisite vessels. One particularly excellent singer/performer is Valerie May. Hello! AmaWaterways Deck plans AmaDahlia Current cruise: 7 days, round-trip Secrets of Egypt the Nile APT River Cruises Itineraries Deck plans Travelmarvel Polaris Current cruise: N/A Travelmarvel-APT River Cruises Tracker Deck plans Travelmarvel Vega Current cruise: N/A Travelmarvel-APT River Cruises Tracker Deck plans Travelmarvel Capella Could Low Water Levels Ruin Your European River Cruise? Excursions are typically guided by local experts who know the port's culture and history well and speak English almost perfectly. in multiple ports, commemorative gifts, and many more surprises and delights. Our ships also move along at a gentle pace and you can always see land on both sides of the river, removing any additional anxiety for those who may feel stranded out on the open water. AmaWaterways operates 17 vessels in Europe, one in Asia, and one in Africa. There is, however, an exception when it comes to DIYing your own itinerary. Have you cruised with Uniworld or AmaWaterways? Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Most AmaWaterways ships average between 158 to 164 passengers. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. After our Destination wedding at The Finest, We traveled to Unico for our Honeymoon in May 2018 and were very impressed with the resort. You may be traveling through different climates and altitudes, so layering is advisable. 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. Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. 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. Every lunch and dinner includes unlimited complimentary fine wines, beer and soft drinks. 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. How? These cabins are practically identical to the previous category, although they provide slightly more space at 235 square feet. Here's what I thought. On Uniworld ships, you will enjoy a 5-star all-inclusive experience, inclusive of fine wines, premium spirits, and every meal on board, as well as onshore excursions, access to the fitness center and wellness classes, all gratuities, and airport transfers. Plan to pack attire that is casually elegant; and something a little dressier to wear to the Captains Dinner or an evening concert. An AmaWaterways river cruise is about more than the destination its the journey. Just be sure to check your Daily Cruiser onboard newsletter to ensure you are back on board the ship before it departs for the next port. The onboard entertainment strives to immerse you in local culture during your trip, with live music, storytellers, and dancers who live and work in the destinations the ships travel to. Theyve also expanded into ocean cruises as well. On four ships (the AmaDolce, AmaLyra, AmaCello, and AmaDante), single cabins are available without a supplemental fee. Both lines also offer premium excursions, which come at an additional cost. Founded in 2002, this European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation . Although dining is more intimate with less venues on a river cruise ship. incredible service and a choice of excursions in every port, as well as up to 5 rounds of golf at
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that includes seven rivers, fourteen countries and the exclusive experiences only AmaWaterways provides. And as with most European river cruises, the demographic skews towards older couples with a moderate activity level (many guests take advantage of the complimentary bicycles available at every port, for instance). Bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and one pair of dressier shoes. Once at your destination, you can speak with your guide about going off solojust make sure you dont miss the ride back to the ship. Here are a few complimentary amenities that are added along with your land package. You May Like: What Cruise Lines Depart From Norfolk Va. AmaWaterways opened the ODA Free Village English School in the province of Siem Reap, Cambodia in association with ODA the Orphans and Disabled Arts Association. Theres usually a musical performance after dinner in the lounge in the evenings. River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. 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. One bonus that Viking River Cruises has over AmaWaterways is the ability to combine both river and ocean itineraries since they operate both types of ships now. If cancellation is made 121 days or more from the sailing 50 percent of the deposit is returned and is then on a sliding scale up until the time of departure. In the case of AmaWaterways, and the AmaSiena in particular, bike tours are a highlight. The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. We are booked on AMA and are considering the Xmas Market 2-day post-cruise extension in Prague in December. Personalized guest service that is beyond anything you could imagine. Complementary drinks If you dont plan on spending much time in your room, these categories will do just fine, but be forewarnedpart of the fun of the Rhine itineraries is sitting outside watching the castles and locks go by. AmaWaterways is known as an upscale river cruise line with 21 custom-designed ships. At night, the Aquavit Terrace serves a set menu that can be enjoyed as often as you'd like throughout your cruise. What kind of equipment is available inside your fitness rooms? There's also space at the Aquavit Terrace. Do I need formal attire? Read on for a look at what major river cruise lines include in their fares. Visit our FAQs page, learn more about river cruising with AmaWaterways, contact your preferred travel advisor or call us at 1.800.626.0126. What should I bring to wear for my river cruise? In 2021, it will offer 60-plus of these vino-focused sailings. The only things that appear to be included in AMA's package is 1) $110 transfers boat to hotel; 2) 2 nights hotel; and 3) 1/2 day city tour. 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. 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. I just got off of an AmaWaterways European River Cruise with my wife after we were both invited to sail with them. On board AmaWaterways, however, you will find their in-house pianist and a variety of unique performances and shows throughout your trip. Even at the lowest level, Viking's cabins include exceptional storage space, with lots of drawers and underbed space for storing suitcases. Plan Far, Far Ahead, Ama Magna D E Passau N B C I M G 7237 Edit 2000x800, Quilting (Photo: PHILIPIMAGE/Shutterstock.com). Valerie even gets the audience to sing along to the Sound of Musics Do-Re-Mi. All meals are included in your fare. Courtesy of AmaWaterways. FYI: My wife and now have been to 55 countries together as a couple! The itineraries are what truly make the experience of a river cruise. Every day there was a huge choice of excursions. Number of Ships: 24. Viking's Longships feature square bows, which creates space for the line's Aquavit Terrace, an alfresco spot for drinking and dining on the third deck. Here are my 17 reasons to go on a Lower Danube river cruise with AmaWaterways: Note: Tips are not included for the guides and bus drivers so do remember to bring some small bills. 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. Sandals Cabana Rental: All You Need to Know 2023, Is Santorini Worth It? 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. "I'm Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of AmaWaterways and I'm passionate about river cruising. There was plenty of space in the bathroom area. It has the greatest selection of drinks to passengers on its 14 ships based in Europe. The line offers luxurious touches at mid-level prices, featuring fantastic service and modern amenities that keep passengers comfortable as they sail rivers in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. [1][2] Schreiner had been one of the pioneers of the river cruise industry after the RhineMainDanube Canal opened in 1992. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Both AmaWaterways and Uniworld offer Christmas cruises of the markets in Europe. We have created the perfect package to enable you to do just
After pandemic-induced delays, family-owned river cruise line AmaWaterways had a big year in 2021, debuting three new ships to its international fleet, including the AmaSiena, sister to the AmaLea and AmaKristina, which was christened on Europes Rhine River in August 2021. Because of COVID-19, tables were assigned, though its open seating in standard times. Here are few examples of AmaWaterwayss drinks prices: Recommended Reading: Which Cruise Lines Depart From New York. Good to know: If the weather is nice, theyll have an ice cream party on the top deck once per cruise. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. Active is for very fit travelers wishing more intensity and a faster pace. The line offers luxurious touches at mid-level prices, featuring fantastic service and modern amenities that keep passengers comfortable as they sail rivers in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Although it is considered a more moderately priced line, Emerald offers a fair number of inclusions (see below), primarily because many of its travelers are Australian (and prefer fares to be more bundled than a la carte). If you plan on participating in our complimentary wellness activities, be sure to bring comfortable workout clothing, such as yoga pants or bike shorts. The AmaSienas home river is the Rhine in Europe. Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways Cost. These included spacious staterooms with French balconies (sliding doors with railings) or Twin balconies, glass elevators, plush robes and luxury bedding, marble bathrooms, complimentary Internet, Wi-Fi access and Infotainment Systems; the newer vessels have heated swimming pools with swim-up bars. Talks, too, focus on history of the region, and might include scenic cruising lectures, where the speaker points out highlights as the boat sails. Other destinations include countries in Asia like China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It was set up by Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy. They're designed to provide more insight into the ports and destinations the ships visit. Guests will enjoy a variety of experiences exclusive to this special itinerary, such as guided tours showcasing jazz, food and wine, all while shining a light on Black heritage. However, these lines have tailored their offerings, making them more inclusive for North Americans while keeping pricing a la carte for Europeans. [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]. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. These 210-square-foot cabins offer guests AmaSienas signature double balconies; one true balcony with two chairs and a small table and a French balcony right beside it. While most river cruise lines, including Viking, can accommodate dietary restrictions, AmaWaterways stands out because of its clear labeling of all foods, identifying those that are gluten-free, sugar-free, low-calorie or include common allergens, such as nuts or soy. Exclusively available on board the AmaMagna, the Zen Wellness Studio also includes outdoor spin bikes, two massage rooms, a hair and nail salon, juice bar and a small selection of child-size bicycles to use on shore. Overall, the ship has an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. Trips And Excursions On An AmaWaterways River Cruise, WIFI Throughout Your AmaWaterways River Cruise. How is your coffee on board? In fact, you might be wondering, which is better, AmaWaterways or Uniworld? And there are plenty of locks. There are four publicly accessible decks on the AmaSiena. AmaWaterways' river cruise offerings include the Main River, Moselle River, Rhne River, Douro River, Dutch and Belgium Waterways, Saone River, Seine River, Dordogne, and Garonne Rivers, Mekong River, Nile River, and Magdalena River. Both lines offer a variety of amenities that are standard between ships. AmaWaterways is a Calabasas, California based river cruise company that offers cruises in Europe, Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Egypt. Included tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides 5. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
Casper Henderson Stockwell,
Articles A