Ocean cruises have been a popular way to vacation for decades, and for good reason. They’re affordable, convenient and offer travellers peace of mind knowing that everything they need for a fantastic getaway is all in one place. What could be better than that? Well, consider a river cruise.
You might think that the words “inland” and “cruise” are incompatible. Well, let me show you on AmaWaterways just how wonderfully well they go together. AmaWaterways river cruises combine all the comfort and convenience of an ocean cruise with the excitement of European excursions at each port of call.
To all cruise-lovers, perhaps it’s time to change up the ocean liner experience for an entirely new way to explore the world’s waterways. Let us book you on an AmaWaterways river cruise that will take you inland for a unique and relaxing tour of Europe.
Here are the top 10 reasons we know why you’ll love river cruising, specifically on AmaWaterways!
1. Expand Your Options
While ocean cruises take you to countries, river cruises take you through them. There simply is no way to reach river cruise destinations on mega cruise ships. You will explore the local culture like no other. As I have heard quoted before and it fits with this kind of travel so well. Be a traveller, not a tourist. Personally I would prefer to be a world traveller, not a tourist and a river cruise accomplishes that!
2. Intimate Experience
River cruising offers a more intimate setting. Most ships range from 144 to 196 passengers. This means that you’ll never have to wait in line, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy all the amenities and have a more personal experience with other passengers and crew. From ordering a beverage to getting on and off the ship, you’ll enjoy the absence of long lines.
3. Dive into the Local Culture
Get away from the touristy ports and explore hidden gems. Large ocean liner ports can receive up to 20,000 visitors on the same day but with a river cruise, you’ll arrive into port with only a few hundred visitors. Not only will you avoid long lines at your destination, but you’ll also enjoy leisurely excursions at each incredible port of call. You’ll be able to take in the local culture and history of every unique town that you visit. And if we plan your river cruise in the shoulder seasons, there will be even fewer visitors.
4. No Need to Rush Back
With many departures from the destinations being later in the afternoon or evening, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the nightlife in select ports of call. Whether you choose an evening walk through cobblestone streets, a local show or performance, or one last glass of wine after dinner while listening to a local musician, immersing yourself in the evening culture together with the locals is a unique experience. There is no need to rush back, you can enjoy the relaxed nightlife.
5. Castle Views
You love looking at older architecture (like me!) than you will love the castle views. From Amsterdam to Basel along the Rhine River, in Budapest, Bratislava, Durnstein and Passau on the Danube you’ll see colorful architecture and castles that will blow you away. But don’t stop at just viewing the castles, why not hike or drive to them and then explore their fabulousness with a knowledgeable guide? There is one shore excursion included at each port. You’ll literally be walking in the footsteps of world history! How cool is that!
6. 5-Star Reviews
5-star reviews are only earned through 5-star service. When you’re relaxing with a glass of wine on the Sun deck, enjoying a night under the stars, or having an unexpected encounter with kind locals that your tour guide has arranged for you, you’ll know where the 5-star reviews come from. See what people are saying about AmaWaterways’ flawless service.
7. Entertainment for the Whole Family
With a variety of activities and plenty of stops along the way, we’re sure everyone in the family will have an unforgettable experience. River cruising is perfect for multi-generational families. From grandparents to teenaged grandchildren, the entire family will bond over a range of topics and activities from food to history to countryside excursions. There really is something to do for everyone onboard at each destination. Some members of your group may choose to take advantage of spa services, or the pool on the sun deck or cultural activities, while others may prefer to seek out a quiet space with a book. Mealtimes are the perfect opportunity for everyone to come together again as a family. It really is the perfect multi-generational vacation for your family or group of friends.
Onboard entertainment
8. Taste the Difference
Whether you’re into wine tasting or local street food, a river cruise provides an exceptional culinary experience both on the ship and at every destination. The onboard culinary team focuses on using fresh local in-season ingredients. Dishes are paired with local wines (included) There’s absolutely no mass-produced and basic buffet food when you cruise with AmaWaterways!
9. Variety of Experience
Let’s not forget just how special every European country is! The towns and cities may be close in proximity along the river, but don’t be surprised by the unique feeling and experiences that each destination gives you. Choose from visiting local breweries, hiking to castles, biking through trendy neighborhoods or visiting museums that highlight the local culture.
10. World-Class Accomodations
One of the reasons we love river cruises so much (and we know you’ll agree) is the feeling of walking into a luxurious suite or twin-balcony stateroom that will be your home away from home for the next 7, 8, 10 days or more. Each of AmaWaterways staterooms is tastefully decorated and is river facing. Whether you choose to have a window view, a private balcony, or even a twin balcony with both a French and outside balcony
A French balcony is where you open the sliding glass door and immediately there is a railing there, that you can lean out of and take in the view. An Outside balcony is the traditional balcony style where you open the sliding door and walk out to chairs and sometimes a table and sit and enjoy the breeze and the view!
Whichever you choose you’ll always have a room with a view.
So, there you have it. 10 great reasons why you’ll love your river cruise on AmaWaterways.
We’d love to match your travel style with the right itinerary and ship. Reach out to us today and be sure to mention if you’re planning a romantic getaway, bachelorette trip or a friends’ reunion and we’ll let you know the add-ons available that will make your experience truly special and memorable.
Also, if you have some friends that you may want to cruise with, consider chatting with me to create a group and enjoy substantial savings of up $700 off per cabin!
