Sandals vs. Iberostar Resorts: Which Is Best for You? "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? Breakfast is served with fresh juices and sparkling wines so that every day starts off with a touch of luxury. For more helpful information by destination, click here. Our land packages include some of the most amazing destinations pre- and/or post-cruise but, what's included? (Beer and wine are included with lunch and dinner, and sparkling wine with breakfastotherwise, alcohol is la carte. We hope to see you on board soon! Recommended Reading: Italian River Cruise. River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. The wine host also accompanies guests during vineyard tours and tastings ashore. AmaWaterways' Seven River Journey Through Europe is scheduled to set sail on June 1, 2023, with prices starting at $25,999 per passenger. We stayed in one of the suites and it was absolutely beautiful! This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Valerie even gets the audience to sing along to the Sound of Musics Do-Re-Mi. How Do the Two Lines Compare for Shore Excursions? At least one complimentary shore excursion in every port, Interactive entertainment on-demand system in staterooms and suites, Gratuities onboard and on shore excursions, Select complimentary shore excursions in every port, Interactive entertainment system with complimentary movies in cabins, Wine, beer and soda at lunch and dinner, complimentary coffee, tea and bottled water throughout, At least one shore excursion in each port, Interactive television system with complimentary movies in cabins and suites, Two glasses of wine, beer or soda at dinner, In-room entertainment system with complimentary movies, Complimentary hotel stays or land extensions on select itineraries, All alcoholic drinks, sodas, specialty coffees, teas, and water, Complementary specialty dining venue on select ships, Gratuities ashore on shore excursions for guides and drivers, Special, private Tauck-exclusive events, such as dinner in a castle, In-room television system with complimentary movies, Wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, Special events, such as dinner in a castle (mostly on theme cruises), Complimentary coffee, tea and water; juice at breakfast, At least one shore excursions in every port, Alternative restaurant with lighter meals, Beer, wine and soda at lunch and dinner; complimentary coffee, teas and water throughout, At least one shore excursion in every port, Interactive entertainment system in all cabins with complimentary movies. 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 In 2021, it will offer 60-plus of these vino-focused sailings. I just got off of an AmaWaterways European River Cruise with my wife after we were both invited to sail with them. After all, both look pretty similar from the outside, both cater (and market) to North American passengers and both sail on virtually all of the world's major rivers -- they even include many of the same ports. Discover Europe, complete with award winning cuisine, We offer coffee and tea 24/7 to our guests and are happy to prepare it any way you like. Sparkling wine with breakfast, local wine and beers at lunch and dinner, with the Sip and Sail Hour held before dinner every night. We look forward to working with you again! No matter the time of day there are always cookies and snacks available at the Al Fresco Restaurant. You can expect a whole range of inclusions on your Nile or Mekong cruise with AmaWaterways. Shore excursions are a major component of the river cruise appeal. Booking your first river cruise? Cabins also feature great lighting, which employs dimmer switches and bedside controls. Viking is a good choice for passengers who desire adults-only vacations that include immersive port experiences. Uniworld is a worldwide company with ships departing from multiple locations and a wide variety of itineraries. All meals are included on AmaSiena. Is this the most epic river cruise ever? AmaMagna's itineraries include Romantic Danube, . Ukraine, Russia, and Egypt are also scheduled countries for Viking River Cruises. AmaWaterways cabins are quite colorful, with stark whites contrasting bright pops of pink or red patterns. All of the tours are very interactive and high-end, offering you more than a regular tour ever could. 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. 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. All told, the fleet stands at 70 (excluding ships currently not operating in Russia). Still have questions? Learn how your comment data is processed. Tea and coffee are generally included throughout the day and many ships also provide bottled water free of charge. Shows include acts from various destinations on the itinerary and help bring the cultural experience enjoyed through the day on board for the evening. Your Cruise Manager can also help recommend restaurants, shops, museums, bars and more. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. Excursions are typically guided by local experts who know the port's culture and history well and speak English almost perfectly. We had a total of 27 people from all over the world that attended. While most river companies offer just one basic excursion, AmaWaterways has choices for extras including culinary choices and more adventurous offerings such as escorted bike trips. Uniworld also offers a range of onboard activities, including swimming pools, leisure centers and gyms, libraries, and beautiful sun decks to lounge on. 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. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. One dinner here per sailing is included for all guests, but you need a reservation. More excursions offered than any other company. Read on for a look at what major river cruise lines include in their fares. Both AmaWaterways and Uniworld offer Christmas cruises of the markets in Europe. Celebration of Classical Music: The Danube, Gems of Southeast Europe Christmas Markets, Treasures of the Main & Rhine (Christmas), Majestic Capitals of the Danube (Christmas), Colors of Provence Soulful Epicurean Experience, A Celebration of Classical Music: The Danube, Secrets of Egypt and the Nile Epicurean Experience. The rooms are nicely decorated and everything worked perfectly with no problems. Deck One, the Piano Deck, has a few staterooms, plus the massage room, salon, and a fitness center. Ships on both lines feature elevators, and some Viking ships have sun deck herb gardens, which chefs use daily. Soda, beer and regional wines are included at meal times, and menus source heavily from local markets and reflect the areas through which the ships sail. A not-to-be-missed performer. AmaWaterways offers a huge selection of complimentary drinks onboard its European cruises. It was quite the experience as we visited five countries in eight days and three of them we had never been to before. I think we have it all covered there, River Cruising is a totally different experience to Ocean Cruising, yet is equally spectacular. Are drinks included on Uniworld? Known as an internationally recognized luxury travel company. Our Reception Desk staff and additional crew will be happy to offer their suggestions, though part of the fun of exploring ports is stumbling upon a unique find yourself! .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}AmaWaterways and Viking are similarly priced across all cabin categories, from the lowest on up to the suites, and both offer comparable inclusions. 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. She is awesome!!! Another perk is that the line offers multiple pace levels of walking tours gentle, regular and active. This beach is gorgeous. At breakfast, you can enjoy sparkling wine, juices, tea and coffee. Complimentary bottled water is replenished in your stateroom on a daily basis. Which meals and beverages are included in my river cruise fare? These requirements,as mandated by airlines and individual countries or regions, may change without notice and cancellation fees will apply should guests no longer meet the country entry requirements for their cruise or land program. I had the chance to sail the new vessel on its first sailing. While we offer a wide variety of included excursions to suit your individual interests and encourage you to join us, you are of course welcome to explore on your own. These include Tauck, Scenic, APT and Crystal, followed by Uniworld and AmaWaterways. There's also space at the Aquavit Terrace. The line sails to more than 25 countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. The lines might bring onboard local singers, dancers and musicians during visits to Vienna, for example, or teach passengers how to make local dishes. If youre looking for honeymoon cruise options, you may want to check out our article 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises and Cruise Lines. To align with the current international travel environment and country entry requirements, we have recently updated our guidelines. Heres what you need to know. All meals are included on AmaSiena. AmaWaterways is known as an upscale river cruise line with 21 custom-designed ships. While jackets for men and cocktail dresses for ladies are recommended for a few special nights at dinner , you most likely wont be stopped at the door if youre not wearing those. Viking Cruises started with a fleet of four ships from Russia and has expanded to operating a fleet of more than 60 vessels on three continents. There is an up-charge for this optional tour but its a MUST-SEE experience. The building design is classy and quality. For example, in 2021, wine enthusiasts might head into France to taste vintages on an Essence of Burgundy & Provence wine-themed sailing or into Austria and Germany for a Melodies of the Danube wine cruise. incredible service and a choice of excursions in every port, as well as up to 5 rounds of golf at AmaWaterways is a family-owned company that was established in 2002 and is still run by the families. 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. [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. How? On a moving ship? Most AmaWaterways ships average between 158 to 164 passengers. However, theres always plenty of flexibility while in port for adventures, from wine tastings to museum visits. Plan Far, Far Ahead, Ama Magna D E Passau N B C I M G 7237 Edit 2000x800, Quilting (Photo: PHILIPIMAGE/Shutterstock.com). With a variety of itineraries across the globe, they have a selection of amazing river cruises to choose from. I will book all future trips with only her. How To Cope With Cruising's Pause? Both cruise lines offer a variety of dining options and menus that reflect the cuisine of the destination countries. A-Rosa does include all alcoholic drinks and gratuities -- measures that appeal to its primarily European passengers. Five Ama ships -- AmaViola, AmaStella, AmaLea, AmaKristina and AmaMora -- also include several cabins that can accommodate three or four people (with a king-size bed along with a chair that converts into a twin bed). 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. You may be traveling through different climates and altitudes, so layering is advisable. Please check our 2024 dates for another chance to embark on this incredible journey. Let us know your experience in the comment section below! Viking River Cruises invests in finding some unique shore excursions. In fact, you might be wondering, which is better, AmaWaterways or Uniworld? This includes dinner at The Chef's Table specialty restaurant, all-day tapas, afternoon tea delights and more. 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. What You Need to Know. 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. Its very difficult to compare the two as they both shine for very different reason. The bathroom is far more spacious than in other cabins with a double vanity and a tub. For example, they'll include shore excursions and waiter served dinners for Americans and Canadians, while these remain pay-as-you-go for Europeans. For trips that require transport, that was also provided. AmaWaterways is another well-known and luxurious river cruise line, with a fleet of 26 ships. There was no detail that she missed. 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. Ultimately though, it really comes down to what appeals to you and where you want to travel. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. 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. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. Unpack once and experience this extraordinary voyage on one award-winning ship, our beautiful AmaMora. As with any cruise type, the cost can vary depending on the itinerary, dates, and ship you're on. As with most river cruises, onboard activities are limited, as the focus is on excursions. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Cruise Line Cancellation Policies: A Closer Look, Mega-Chart: Compare Hurricane Sandy Cruise Line Compensation, Booking a Cruise Onboard: How to Score Extras and Discounts, Can I Cruise While Pregnant? 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). I would like to Thank Eric for helping book this vacation to Punta Cana in DR and recommending the Secrets Cap Cana resort. Both suggest gratuities of around 2 euros for tour guides and one euro for bus drivers. All meals are included in your fare. Uniworld also does river cruises in Asia, Egypt, India, and Peru. Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based travel writer with over six years of experience. The ship primarily sails the Rhine River through Western Europe, whisking guests to fairytale-esque towns and historic cities. Whether it is at a luxury resort or a cozy cabin, we are here to make planning your next trip easier. that with our Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. Everything is taken care of with no worries. 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. AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . They're designed to provide more insight into the ports and destinations the ships visit. You might go truffle hunting in Bordeaux or cognac blending in Camus, for example. 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. AmaWaterways is known as an upscale river cruise line with 21 custom-designed ships. Courtesy of AmaWaterways. Do I need formal attire? 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. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. 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. Throw pillows are elaborate, and wood and marble touches are dark. 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. Debuting in summer 2019, the creatively designed AmaMagna is twice the width of a normal Danube river vessel and offers some of the largest staterooms on European rivers. I was having second thoughts on staying there and I am so glad he talked me out of it. Smaller ships, such as the Queen Isabel, hold 116 guests, while larger ships, such as the SS Catherine, hold 162 passengers. But also a great time to take advantage of complimentary pre dinner drinks which consist of champagne, wine, beer and specially selected cocktails. Speak to a Cruise Agent: J 1-888-766-6420 International Callers Click Here What's included with your AMAWaterways Cruise? You May Like: Carnival Cruise Line Mobile Al. The closet and drawers were roomy. I already referred a couple of my friends to book a vacation with Ultimate Travel and planning on contacting Eric soon to book our next trip, this time with our kids just trying to decide were to go next. An exception to this is Emerald Waterways (also known as Evergreen in Australia), which is owned by the same tour company as Scenic. Viking also has an impressive lineup of partners, including Masterpiece Theatre, so passengers could elect to visit Highclere Castle, where "Downton Abbey" was shot, and get behind-the-scenes exclusive access as part of a cruise land extension for Paris and Normandy cruises. Dinner tends to start at a set time every day, this is dependent on port excursions. However, these lines have tailored their offerings, making them more inclusive for North Americans while keeping pricing a la carte for Europeans. Find out everything from whats included to how to dress on board our river cruises. At a glance. I thought it may help to understand whats included on an Ama River Cruise. On four ships (the AmaDolce, AmaLyra, AmaCello, and AmaDante), single cabins are available without a supplemental fee. The majority measure 355 square feet, but six Grand Suites are 474 square feet and an Owners Suite is 710 square feet. [1] [2] Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. 1.3K views, 16 likes, 15 comments, 4 shares, Facebook Reels from AmaWaterways: Did you know that a select few of our amazing land packages are complimentary if you reserve before March 31st, 2023?.