Oct 1 | Written By Jack Zhao

With good reason, ocean cruises have been a popular vacation option for decades. They are economical, convenient, and provide tourists with the assurance that they have everything they need for a good vacation in one spot. What could be more desirable? Well, consider a river cruise.

You may believe that "inland" and "cruise" are mutually exclusive. Allow me to demonstrate on AmaWaterways how harmoniously they fit together. River cruises by AmaWaterways combine the luxury and convenience of an ocean cruise with the adventure of European excursions at each destination.

For all cruise enthusiasts, it may be time to reimagine the ocean liner experience as a brand-new way to explore the world's waterways. Let us book you on a river cruise with AmaWaterways that will take you inland for a unique and peaceful tour of Europe.

Here are the top ten reasons we believe you will enjoy river traveling with AmaWaterways!

1. Expand Your Choices

In contrast to ocean cruises, river cruises transport you through nations. There is just no way for big cruise ships to access river cruise sites.

2. Intimate Experience

River sailing provides a more personal atmosphere. Most ships accommodate between 144 and 196 people. This means that you will never have to wait in line, giving you more time to enjoy the facilities and interact more closely with other passengers and crew. From ordering a drink to boarding the ship, you will appreciate the lack of lineups.

3. Immerse Yourself In The Local Culture

Get away from the crowded ports and discover the hidden treasures. Large ocean liner ports can attract up to 20,000 tourists in a single day, but when you arrive in port on a river cruise, there will be no more than a few hundred visitors. Not only will you escape huge lineups at your destination, but you will also enjoy unhurried excursions at each amazing port. You will be able to absorb the culture and history of each distinct place you visit.

4. No Need to Return Quickly

With many departures occurring in the late afternoon or evening, you will have the opportunity to experience the nightlife in chosen ports of call. Immersing yourself in the nighttime culture with the residents is a one-of-a-kind experience, regardless of whether you select a stroll through cobblestone streets, a local play or performance, or a glass of wine after dinner while listening to a local artist.

5. Castle Scenery

Indeed, there are castle vistas. From Amsterdam to Basel along the Rhine, and in Budapest, Bratislava, Dürnstein, and Passau on the Danube, you will be awestruck by the vibrant architecture and castles. However, instead of simply admiring the castles, why not climb or drive to them and then have a trained guide explain its splendor? You will literally follow in the footsteps of historical figures.

6. Five-Star Ratings

Only 5-star service will result in 5-star reviews. When you're enjoying a glass of wine on the Sun Deck, a night beneath the stars, or an unexpected meeting with friendly locals organized by your tour guide, you'll understand where our 5-star evaluations come from.

7. Amusement for the Entire Family

With a range of activities and several stops along the road, we are confident that every member of the family will have a memorable time. River sailing is ideal for families with many generations. From grandparents to adolescent grandkids, the family will interact over a variety of subjects and activities, including cuisine, history, and outdoor trips. At each stop, there truly is something for everyone on board to do. Some members of your party may choose for spa treatments, the pool on the sundeck, or cultural events, while others may seek out a quiet area to read a book. Meals provide the ideal chance for the family to reunite. It is the ideal vacation for multigenerational families or groups of friends.

8. Experience the Difference

Whether you enjoy wine tasting or local street cuisine, a river cruise offers a great gastronomic experience onboard and at each port. The onboard culinary staff prioritizes the usage of fresh local foods. Local wines are coupled with dishes. AmaWaterways cruises provide absolutely no mass-produced or standard buffet cuisine!

9. Diverse Experience

Let's not overlook how unique each European nation is! Along the river, the towns and cities may be close together, but don't be shocked by the unique atmosphere and sensations that each location offers. Choose from seeing local breweries, trekking to castles, cycling through fashionable districts, and touring museums that emphasize the local culture.

10. Exceptional Accommodations

One of the reasons we love river cruises so much (and we're sure you'll agree) is the sense of entering into a magnificent suite or twin-balcony cabin that will be your home for the next seven, eight, or ten days. Each cabin on AmaWaterways is elegantly appointed and river-facing. You will always have a room with a view, whether you pick a window view, a private balcony, or even a twin balcony (with both a French and an outside balcony).

That concludes the discussion. There are ten excellent reasons why you will enjoy your first AmaWaterways river tour.

We'd delighted to match your vacation preferences to the appropriate itinerary and vessel. Contact us immediately and let us know if you're organizing a romantic vacation, bachelorette party, or friends' reunion, and we'll inform you of the available enhancements that will make your experience really memorable.

Book Your AmaWaterways Cruise Now!