So, yes, you should bring a book. Yes! Generally speaking the half board we experienced sailing with AmaWaterways felt very much like almost all inclusive. Please check our 2024 dates for another chance to embark on this incredible journey. How Does AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Compare on Price, Inclusions and Booking Policies? Thats not to say that friend groups or multi-gen families wouldnt enjoy sailingseveral cabins do have connecting doors. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. Boats in the AmaWaterways fleet also offer bikes, which can be used in port as part of an excursion or for solo exploration. Other destinations include countries in Asia like China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. 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. She came to us with the best options and negotiated so many things to accommodate our large group. Both lines also offer premium excursions, which come at an additional cost. 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 . Ships on both lines feature elevators, and some Viking ships have sun deck herb gardens, which chefs use daily. The venue that AmaWaterways uses isnt too far from the dock, has excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. [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]. There was plenty of space in the bathroom area. 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. That leaves plenty of room for lounging, either in full sun or under shade. 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). The line sails to more than 25 countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. Since your ship will be making port at so many unique cities you'll have a chance to eat local cuisine. 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. More excursions offered than any other company. River cruises, unlike regular cruises, are not necessarily known for onboard activities. As part of a history-making partnership, Ancestry and AmaWaterways are combining our shared passions for family, heritage and travel to offer guests the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to uncover their family history while cruising along Europes legendary rivers. 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. At every stop, theres almost always a general walking tour (guests can choose their activity level: active, regular, or gentle), as well as specialty options like beer or wine tastings, hikes and bike tours, or unique visits to museums. 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. 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 . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Sandals vs. Iberostar Resorts: Which Is Best for You? The Shore Excursions. But there arent many activities for children, so younger kids might find the experience a little dry. 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. In the river cruise world, the lines that have more amenities bundled into the price tend to -- not coincidentally -- be more luxurious and expensive. Another perk is that the line offers multiple pace levels of walking tours gentle, regular and active. Uniworld has a broad range of staterooms offering a luxurious, high-end designer feel and one-of-a-kind interiors. Breakfast is served with fresh juices and sparkling wines so that every day starts off with a touch of luxury. Here are few examples of AmaWaterwayss drinks prices: Recommended Reading: Which Cruise Lines Depart From New York. Also for those with mobility issues, or indeed families with young children AmaWaterways offer gentle trips. Uniworld offers unlimited premium spirits and wines, and AmaWaterways includes all drinks with meals plus a daily cocktail hour. Founded in 2002, this European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation . 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. We invite you to join our incredible cruise on the Rhne with a Latin Touch, featuring bilingual cruise managers, daily tours with Spanish-speaking guides, Latin-inspired music nights and other distinctive elements. With an innovative product and rapidly-growing fleet of custom-designed ships, the line enjoys a reputation as the leader in river cruising. Some river cruise operators include wine, beer and soft drinks only with lunch and dinner while others include unlimited drinks, served at your discretion throughout the cruise! Otherwise, youll have plenty of time for peaceful contemplation in the lounge. At breakfast, you can enjoy sparkling wine, juices, tea and coffee. Dani Rae Doro was the best travel agent I have ever worked with. I thought it may help to understand whats included on an Ama River Cruise. Excursions are operated in small groups of just 10-15 guests. Transfers between your hotel and your ship Reserve your Complimentary Land Package now before March 31st to enjoy this limited-time offer! .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. Both offer exceptional dining, great entertainment and activities, and a luxurious experience. Uniworld tends to put more focus on guided tours and daytime entertainment at various destinations. 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. In 2021, it will offer 60-plus of these vino-focused sailings. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). In the river cruise world, its the term for amenities that are already part of your fare. Complimentary coffee and teas served throughout the day, along with bottled water. Resort was stunning , food and entertainment was great, and the staff were incredible. Ama feels very much a premium product, however is well worth the price. Throw pillows are elaborate, and wood and marble touches are dark. Also, both lines offer specific family cruises throughout the year that include additional activities for kids, so this may be something to check into. Final payment is due 90 days before the cruise. Even at the lowest level, Viking's cabins include exceptional storage space, with lots of drawers and underbed space for storing suitcases. 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. She sings and entertains to a variety of familiar songs from around the world. You will find a selection of tea and coffee available throughout the day, the main lounge has a coffee machine, fresh iced water and biscuits. This allows for more choice, enabling you to find just the right cruise and ship for you. Many of the credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. Then, there are the ships in Egypt and China, Vietnam, which the line either owns or charters. Theres usually a musical performance after dinner in the lounge in the evenings. Take a tour of a AmaWaterwayss suite. Viking River Cruises invests in finding some unique shore excursions. $1-$3 is suggested for guides but I usually gave them 5 Euros. Smaller ships, such as the Queen Isabel, hold 116 guests, while larger ships, such as the SS Catherine, hold 162 passengers. [2], At each port of call, there are guided excursions that are graded according to the difficulty level of the walking. Sparkling wine with breakfast, local wine and beers at lunch and dinner, with the Sip and Sail Hour held before dinner every night. We are pleased to offer guests the opportunity to experience Floriade in 2022 while sailing along the Rhine River and Dutch and Belgian Waterways between April 14 and October 9. Also free use of bikes to take on shore. See what 1 line just announced for 2024, Why a Douro River cruise may be the perfect friends group getaway, Demand for cruises on small ships jumps in wake of COVID pandemic. Thanks so much Cheryl! AmaWaterways cabins are quite colorful, with stark whites contrasting bright pops of pink or red patterns. Trying to decide whether you want to sail AmaWaterways vs. Viking River Cruises is tricky. Let us know your experience in the comment section below! All meals are included on AmaSiena. The wine host also accompanies guests during vineyard tours and tastings ashore. To truly make your vacation, Uniworld ships have a great selection of gourmet restaurants and elegant bars. Both sail the Nile and Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia. Which meals and beverages are included in my river cruise fare? 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. While many river lines showcase local wines from the region of sailing, AmaWaterways does that but it also has offers dedicated Wine Cruises 67 such themed cruises in 2020. Ever-expanding family-owned river cruise brand AmaWaterways prides itself on its fleet of more than two dozen exquisite vessels. But also a great time to take advantage of complimentary pre dinner drinks which consist of champagne, wine, beer and specially selected cocktails. The dining was outstanding on the AmaMagna, offering lots of diverse choice and quality, including child friendly meals for fussy eaters. All the restaurants were great. Wine, champagne, beer, sparking and still water and soft drinks are served throughout meal times, your glass never goes empty. What are the Benefits of an AmaWaterways Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Package? Shore excursions are a major component of the river cruise appeal. AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner . Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways: What You Should Know 2023, 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises and Cruise Lines. Visit our FAQs page, learn more about river cruising with AmaWaterways, contact your preferred travel advisor or call us at 1.800.626.0126. The service is exceptional you will never have to ask for a drink at mealtime. We strongly encourage getting a slice of Sacher Torte or strudel with your cup at one of Viennas coffeehouses on the Danube River, and tasting authentic Rdesheimer coffee made with Asbach brandy in Rdesheim, Germany along the Rhine. 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? 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. Your email address will not be published. Its very difficult to compare the two as they both shine for very different reason. We recommend AmaWaterways for families and young adults. [1] One of these, the AmaMagna, is the largest cruise ship on the Danube. 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. All excursions are included for guests on the AmaSiena, and while theres a range for all types of travelers, Amawaterways as a company offers more active excursions than its competitors. These tours involve little walking, and destinations are mostly seen by bus or other vehicles. 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. 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. Most if not all of the river cruises along the Danube include an optional Mozart concert in Vienna. Thank you Eric for handling our destination Wedding at the Finest and also our Honeymoon at the Unico Resort. Typically, theres just one excursion per day, but in some ports, there are nighttime ones; on our sailing, we had the option to leave the ship after dinner in Rdesheim, Germany, to sample the local coffee or visit a music museum. No need to dress for dinner here, and passengers don't have to show up at a set time, either. Also Check: Norwegian Cruise Lines Newest Ship. Its likely youve heard of Uniworld River Cruises and AmaWaterways. Are drinks included on Uniworld? (Probably Overrated). Contact. 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. In that case, its best to pick an excursion to hitch a ride. 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. 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 only slight difference is that with AmaWaterways placing emphasis on their excellent onboard evening entertainment and unlimited premium spirits, it makes a better choice for those who like to enjoy the nightlife onboard the ships. Both suggest gratuities of around 2 euros for tour guides and one euro for bus drivers. I would highly recommend choosing the carefully selected wine pairings, handpicked by the onboard sommelier. On board AmaWaterways, however, you will find their in-house pianist and a variety of unique performances and shows throughout your trip. At night, the Aquavit Terrace serves a set menu that can be enjoyed as often as you'd like throughout your cruise. For more information or to book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred travel advisor , visit AmaWaterways.com or call (800) 626 . Much like Uniworld, AmaWaterways ships cruise a variety of riverways worldwide. Thank you! On a moving ship? From the beginning of our vacation to the end, everything was perfect. Depending on the itinerary, they range from around $2000 per person to $5000 per person or more. Have you cruised with Uniworld or AmaWaterways? When you consider that most Europeans ride bikes everywhere, its no surprise there are wide paved bike paths throughout every port of call. The greeters was great! Up top is the open-air Sun Deck, where theres a running track, a small pool, loungers, and a smoking area. Still have questions? Water is also handed out as you leave the ship on excursions. Unlike Viking's Longships, in which decor is almost identical from ship to ship, AmaWaterways' cabins feature different decorations, depending on the vessel. Dinner tends to start at a set time every day, this is dependent on port excursions. For river cruises in 2023 and 2024, AmaWaterways is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccination to board our ships. Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based travel writer with over six years of experience. Both itineraries are open for sale now, with Karst encouraging the audience of the 'Sip & Sail' event to "contact your travel . Furthermore should you have work to keep up with or just want to keep tabs with everyone at home. 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. 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. It can accommodate 196 passengers, not that much more capacity-wise than some vessels half its width. The difference is in the auditorium or theatre that is used. Private tours are available to be booked if you are looking to do something away from the groups. Speak to a Cruise Agent: J 1-888-766-6420 International Callers Click Here If youre looking to travel without children, Uniworld has a selection of adults-only cruises, so you can comfortably enjoy a romantic getaway or honeymoon. Bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and one pair of dressier shoes. 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). AmaWaterways is a Calabasas, California based river cruise company that offers cruises in Europe, Southern Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and Egypt. Both lines offer a variety of amenities that are standard between ships. 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). That said, shorts and sandals arent permitted in the dining room on any night, but fine at lunchtime. Lisa Long, owner of Luxury Vacations LLC, an independent travel agency in the Avoya Network, Marietta, GA, sells many river cruises and from her perspective, I would classify AmaWaterways as a luxury river cruise experience with a warm and friendly staff and excellent food. The local host was a very nice touch, who made you feel welcomed from the very start. During our complimentary onboard wellness activities, yoga mats and other equipment such as resistance bands will be available and will be thoroughly cleaned after each use. Definitely coming back. The word "inclusive" gets thrown around a lot, but what exactly does it mean? Cabins also feature great lighting, which employs dimmer switches and bedside controls. 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. Many of these excursions only occupy a portion of your time in port, so theres usually time to explore on your own after a tour, too. We have in place an exemption process that may result in a small number of guests onboard who are not fully . 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. [1] History[ edit] Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. You can also check the cruise lines website for special offers and discounts. AmaWaterways operates the finest fleet and provides all-inclusive river cruise vacations on the great waterways of Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. [9][2][10], The company has also offered promotions for solo travellers. [2], Cruises are full-board and include wine and beer with meals as well as a cocktail hour. Whats Included In Your Fare On An AmaWaterways River Cruise? 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. 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). AmaWaterways is very much a luxury river cruise line operating in the more premium area, and their ships, service and the quality of what they offer is very highly rated. Also included is their onboard wellness program, shore excursions, and WiFi. For example, they'll include shore excursions and waiter served dinners for Americans and Canadians, while these remain pay-as-you-go for Europeans. The lines might bring onboard local singers, dancers and musicians during visits to Vienna, for example, or teach passengers how to make local dishes. Wed already sailed on the Upper Danube with other companies and we wanted to visit new countries. Dress-code wise, guests can leave their ball gowns and tuxedos at home. 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. Carving out a niche in the upscale segment of the river cruise industry, AmaWaterways is luxurious in many ways, yet with a contemporary, comfortable vibe. Incredible awards and ratings including having the highest rated river cruise ships in Europe. Again, this isnt a new concept, but one that AmaWaterways has done to perfection. Plus, be treated to a variety of live performances on this melodious journey. 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).
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