AmaWaterways is an award-winning river cruise line known for spacious, custom-built ships, a celebrated culinary program, and a wellness-and-adventure focus that appeals to active travelers and multigenerational families. Here’s a quick fact sheet on who they are, where they sail, and what sets them apart.
AmaWaterways at a glance
About AmaWaterways
Founded in 2002 by river-cruise pioneers Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, AmaWaterways has grown into one of the most decorated names in river cruising, with more than two decades of experience designing custom-built ships. It was the first river cruise line welcomed into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest culinary society, and it pairs that fine-dining reputation with a signature wellness program and complimentary bikes and guided hikes in most ports.
The fleet
AmaWaterways operates a fleet of around 29 custom-designed ships, most carrying roughly 150 to 196 guests. Its flagship, AmaMagna, is nearly twice the width of a standard river vessel — one of the largest ships sailing the Danube — with expanded suites, multiple dining venues, a water-sports platform and a full spa.
Where they sail
In Europe, AmaWaterways covers the classic rivers — the Danube, Rhine, Douro, Seine, Moselle, Main, Rhône and Garonne. Beyond Europe it sails the Mekong through Vietnam and Cambodia, the Nile in Egypt, the Chobe in southern Africa and, most recently, Colombia’s Magdalena River.
Who it’s for
AmaWaterways suits active, curious travelers who want a premium experience with a culinary and wellness bent — as well as families (the line partners with Adventures by Disney on select sailings) and solo travelers looking for a social, well-run ship.
Thinking about an AmaWaterways cruise?
Talk to a real advisor who has sailed these ships and can match you to the right itinerary, ship and stateroom.
Talk to an AdvisorFlyOver Travel advisors book clients on AmaWaterways sailings every year and hold the certifications and first-hand ship knowledge to work directly with the line — so you get expert, unbiased guidance from a team that knows these ships inside and out. Learn more about FlyOver Travel.
AmaWaterways river cruises: FAQs
Is AmaWaterways all-inclusive?
AmaWaterways fares include your stateroom, all onboard meals, a daily shore excursion, and beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, plus Wi-Fi and use of the ship’s bikes. Airfare, gratuities and premium excursions are typically extra.
How many ships does AmaWaterways have?
AmaWaterways operates a fleet of around 29 custom-built ships as of 2025, most carrying roughly 150 to 196 guests.
Where does AmaWaterways cruise?
Mainly Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Douro and Seine and other rivers, plus the Mekong in Southeast Asia, the Nile in Egypt, the Chobe in Africa and Colombia’s Magdalena River.
Is AmaWaterways good for families?
Yes. AmaWaterways offers family-friendly sailings and partners with Adventures by Disney on select departures, alongside biking and hiking options that suit multigenerational groups.