For other couples, either cruise line would be great depending on what you are looking for. Do I need formal attire? Its likely youve heard of Uniworld River Cruises and AmaWaterways. The service is exceptional you will never have to ask for a drink at mealtime. Yes! 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. Theres usually a musical performance after dinner in the lounge in the evenings. One of the best ways of securing a better deal, however, is by booking via a cruise travel agent. [1], AmaWaterways was co-founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner, Jimmy Murphy, and Kristin Karst. Cabins also feature great lighting, which employs dimmer switches and bedside controls. 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). However, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises more than delivers on this! [2], At each port of call, there are guided excursions that are graded according to the difficulty level of the walking. An exception to this is Emerald Waterways (also known as Evergreen in Australia), which is owned by the same tour company as Scenic. The line has 55 Longships, nearly identical boats designed to sail Europe's rivers. AmaWaterways cabins are quite colorful, with stark whites contrasting bright pops of pink or red patterns. Both lines also offer specialized cruises. We offer coffee and tea 24/7 to our guests and are happy to prepare it any way you like. The line sails to more than 25 countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. 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. AmaWaterways operates the finest fleet and provides all-inclusive river cruise vacations on the great waterways of Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Talks, too, focus on history of the region, and might include scenic cruising lectures, where the speaker points out highlights as the boat sails. At intervals during the day one of the crew will appear with a nice cooling wine spritzer, cold beer or cocktail of the day. These tours involve little walking, and destinations are mostly seen by bus or other vehicles. [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]. To truly make your vacation, Uniworld ships have a great selection of gourmet restaurants and elegant bars. There was plenty of space in the bathroom area. Fewer guests onboard means less packed amenities and tours. 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. 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. Sparkling wine with breakfast, local wine and beers at lunch and dinner, with the Sip and Sail Hour held before dinner every night. Both suggest gratuities of around 2 euros for tour guides and one euro for bus drivers. 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. Using the example of Rudesheim, Germany, Karst told Avid Cruiser that AmaWaterways typically would offer a choice of a gondola ride to the monument overlooking the Rhine followed by included wine tasting a hike through the areas vineyards a guided bike tour an evening visit to taste the famous Rudesheimer Kaffee, an alcoholic coffee drink or a tour of Siegfrieds Mechanical Music Cabinet, a museum with an amazing array of historical automated instruments musical. With the exception of a few, most of the trips are half a day and start and finish back at the ship. Speak to a Cruise Agent: J 1-888-766-6420 International Callers Click Here 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. Home Cruise Uniworld vs. AmaWaterways: What You Should Know 2023. The local host was a very nice touch, who made you feel welcomed from the very start. Once at your destination, you can speak with your guide about going off solojust make sure you dont miss the ride back to the ship. In fact, you might be wondering, which is better, AmaWaterways or Uniworld? Both cruise lines take the same approach to dining, with a combination of buffet and off-the-menu ordering at breakfast and lunch, then a sit-down dinner at a set time each night. Ultimately though, it really comes down to what appeals to you and where you want to travel. We recommend AmaWaterways for families and young adults. AmaWaterways is now offering a comprehensive package with a 7-night river cruise in a French balcony stateroom, round-trip airfare, transfers, a pre- or post-cruise land package, port charges and Travel Waiver Plus all included with a starting price of US$5,499 per person. An immense variety of ports means more unique travel destinations and options. There is more than enough to keep you entertained while onboard, especially since on river cruises you typically spend much of your time at various destinations. Water is also handed out as you leave the ship on excursions. River cruise lines employ local entertainment to come onboard for the evenings show either while still docked or even while underway. Also included is their onboard wellness program, shore excursions, and WiFi. Light bites are served throughout the day in the lounge; there are pastries for early or late risers who miss breakfast, tapas for lunch, afternoon tea, a Sip & Sail cocktail hour (alcoholic beverages are complimentary), and a late-night snack served at 10:30 p.m. You can also access a complimentary coffee station here 24/7. You May Like: Cruises From Los Angeles To Hawaii Round Trip. AmaWaterways has a larger fleet than Uniworld, with a larger variety of sizes as well. Why? The building design is classy and quality. Cabins on AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises Vary Dramatically, Dining on AmaWaterways & Viking River Cruises' Dining Draw Similarities. Unlike Viking's Longships, in which decor is almost identical from ship to ship, AmaWaterways' cabins feature different decorations, depending on the vessel. These ships dont spend days at sea; rather, they are utilized as a luxurious experience between destinations. The Black Sea Voyage shows you a different side of Europe Eastern Europe, with its recent scars and growing pains. The ships that sail in Europe are similarly designed and can accommodate about 164 passengers. I thought it may help to understand whats included on an Ama River Cruise. Personalized guest service that is beyond anything you could imagine. CA cabins (170 square feet) have a small seating area, but CB cabins (155 square feet) dont. AmaWaterways offers itineraries in Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, Africa, and Colombia. Within Europe, Viking offers cruises to a number of different countries, including France, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Romania and Portugal. Youll feel pampered, whether youre in a grand suite or classic cabin. They offer cruises ranging from 7 to 27 days. AmaWaterways also has a partnership with Backroads, an active touring company. 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. Viking stands at the top of the river cruise industry when it comes to fleet size. The What to Expect on a River Cruise series is a resource guide, written by Cruise Critic editors and contributors, where we answer the most common questions about river cruises, including dining, cabins and suites, service and onboard activities. To align with the current international travel environment and country entry requirements, we have recently updated our guidelines. On European itineraries Viking recommends 18 euros per person per day, which can be prepurchased or automatically added to the shipboard account. Both sail the Nile and Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia. Theyve also expanded into ocean cruises as well. This was our first adult All-Inclusive resort and it was the best ever. Also Check: Are Regent Cruises Worth The Money. Those looking to get their hearts pumping might choose an active tour, which could include a little more mileage or climbs up stairs or other steep inclines, or the pace might simply be slightly faster. Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. 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. 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. During our river cruise on the Danube nearly all of the excursions were free, with the exception of 1 or 2 speciality trips. Because of the nature of river cruising many of the tours are within walking distance. Onboard service is friendly, guest-centric and never stuffy. For trips that require transport, that was also provided. Bikers are required to wear helmets. If cancellation is made 121 days or more from the sailing 50 percent of the deposit is returned and is then on a sliding scale up until the time of departure. Every breakfast, lunch and dinner during your river cruise will be included on board. (Probably Overrated). One of the best extras with AmaWaterways is that they have a choice of excursions in most ports at no extra charge, says travel advisor Candie Steinman, franchise owner, Dream Vacations, Fort Myers, FL. Wed already sailed on the Upper Danube with other companies and we wanted to visit new countries. Contact. Imagine if there was a way to combine luxury river cruising on the iconic Danube with the opportunity to indulge your passion and play golf. Neither includes gratuities for crew or tour guides.. AmaWaterways suggests 100 euros per person per seven-night cruise (120 euros on AmaMagna), with an additional 25 euros per week-long sailing for the cruise manager. It feels very close to all-inclusive. AmaWaterways boats feature small (one-room) spas, where moderately priced massages are offered, and salons along with fitness centers, which are moderately used. Every lunch and dinner includes unlimited complimentary fine wines, beer and soft drinks. Many of the credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. This is a great time to head to the lounge bar and meet fellow cruisers. With a variety of itineraries across the globe, they have a selection of amazing river cruises to choose from. We have in place an exemption process that may result in a small number of guests onboard who are not fully . Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, the heated swimming pools and swim-up bars are quite popular on AmaWaterways. Learn how your comment data is processed. "I'm Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of AmaWaterways and I'm passionate about river cruising. Overall, the ship has an atmosphere of laid-back luxury. 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. Theres always the lounge or the Sun Deck, though. My Final Thoughts On Our AmaWaterways River Cruise? You May Like: What Cruise Lines Go Out Of Mobile Al. Thats not to say that friend groups or multi-gen families wouldnt enjoy sailingseveral cabins do have connecting doors. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. She sings and entertains to a variety of familiar songs from around the world. I was having second thoughts on staying there and I am so glad he talked me out of it. This allows for more choice, enabling you to find just the right cruise and ship for you. Dress-code wise, guests can leave their ball gowns and tuxedos at home. (Beer and wine are included with lunch and dinner, and sparkling wine with breakfastotherwise, alcohol is la carte. AmaViola and AmaStella also feature a number of connecting cabins, designed with families in mind. Viking also has six smaller "Baby Longships," which sail the Douro River in Portugal and the Elbe River in France, which runs through Germany and the Czech Republic. The Bottom Line: Which River Cruise Line is Right for You. I will book all future trips with only her. that with our Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. She came to us with the best options and negotiated so many things to accommodate our large group. I was invited as a guest on the AmaMagna, however all opinions and thoughts are my own. [11], As of 2022, AmaWaterways had a fleet of 26 ships. No matter the time of day there are always cookies and snacks available at the Al Fresco Restaurant. River Cruise Advisor | Avid Cruiser | About | Terms & Full Disclosure | Privacy | Contact | Subscribe. For honeymoons or romantic getaways, Uniworld has some adult-only cruises, making it a great choice for a relaxing and romantic trip. It can accommodate 196 passengers, not that much more capacity-wise than some vessels half its width. Ultimate All-Inclusive Travel has been assisting us for our vacation guidance, advice, and the best bang for our buck. River cruise lines with European owners, such as CroisiEurope and A-Rosa, tend to be the most a la carte. Is this the most epic river cruise ever? Quite often local food and afternoon tea are provided too. All the restaurants were great. Depending on the itinerary, they range from around $2000 per person to $5000 per person or more. But during meals, the waitstaff is quick to refill your glass!) If youre looking for honeymoon cruise options, you may want to check out our article 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises and Cruise Lines. You might go truffle hunting in Bordeaux or cognac blending in Camus, for example. On AmaWaterways, a chef's table at the stern of the boat seats up to 32 people in an area with an open kitchen and floor-to-ceiling windows; guests experience a tasting menu (available to each . The decor was very impressive but also authentic Mayan feel. Sip and Sail Cocktail Hours takes place for an hour before dinner every evening. Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways include at least one shore excursion in every port you visit. 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. [8] AmaWaterways is reportedly the only river cruise line to belong to the gourmet chain La Chane des Rtisseurs. Resort was stunning , food and entertainment was great, and the staff were incredible. When you consider that most Europeans ride bikes everywhere, its no surprise there are wide paved bike paths throughout every port of call. There were plenty of grass thatched umbrellas and lounge chairs. Bathrooms have heated floors, a surprising and wonderful detail, especially in the middle of the night. Weve curated a list of questions submitted by first-time river cruisers to give you a better picture of the unparalleled experiences youll have while sailing with us. You are the best. Thanks so much Cheryl! Viking River Cruises invests in finding some unique shore excursions. Explore the rich history of classical music along the Danube River where famous composers lived, worked and performed. Its difficult to feel hungry on The AmaMagna there are always snack available somewhere on the ship. 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. On Uniworld ships, you will enjoy a 5-star all-inclusive experience, inclusive of fine wines, premium spirits, and every meal on board, as well as onshore excursions, access to the fitness center and wellness classes, all gratuities, and airport transfers. 02 Mar 2023 01:57:04 In celebration of our diverse global AmaWaterways family, we are delighted to announce A Soulful Epicurean Experience, our first-ever Colors of Provence river cruise and 3-night Paris land package highlighting Black history and culture. Find out everything from whats included to how to dress on board our river cruises. The lines might bring onboard local singers, dancers and musicians during visits to Vienna, for example, or teach passengers how to make local dishes. She covers various destinations, hotels, and travel products for TripSavvy. [2], Cruises are full-board and include wine and beer with meals as well as a cocktail hour. Other destinations include countries in Asia like China, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. AmaWaterways is currently operating our river cruise ships with vaccination rates approaching 100%. For more information or to book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred travel advisor , visit AmaWaterways.com or call (800) 626 . One dinner here per sailing is included for all guests, but you need a reservation. As for accommodations, ultra-spacious suites account for more than 50 percent of AmaMagnas accommodations. 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. That leaves plenty of room for lounging, either in full sun or under shade. Additionally it does help when considering booking a river cruise for the first time to know exactly what is included. Trips And Excursions On An AmaWaterways River Cruise, WIFI Throughout Your AmaWaterways River Cruise. Every breakfast, lunch and dinner during your river cruise will be included on board. At night, the Aquavit Terrace serves a set menu that can be enjoyed as often as you'd like throughout your cruise. At a glance. Experience Christmas Markets, a holiday feast with all the trimmings and special events on board with your esteemed host. [1][2] Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. Private tours are available to be booked if you are looking to do something away from the groups. On board AmaWaterways, however, you will find their in-house pianist and a variety of unique performances and shows throughout your trip. Budapest illuminated at night. I had the chance to sail the new vessel on its first sailing. The rivers we sail are calm bodies of water and our ships experience no waves or rocking motions the primary cause for seasickness. While locks on most European rivers limit the size of river vessels plying those waterways, the Danube can accommodate some larger ships. On some days, guests have a choice of excursions to different towns in different countries, so its best to do a little research before making your selectionyou often will only have time for one, as theyre usually a bus ride away. Valerie even gets the audience to sing along to the Sound of Musics Do-Re-Mi. 14 Days - Travel to Medellin and return from Panama City, 16 Days - Travel to Medellin and return from Panama City, AmaWaterways Ltd | Abbots Place Suite B | Walnut Tree Close | Guildford | GU1 4RW. First-time river cruisers may be under the assumption that river cruises arent as luxurious as other cruise types. With both lines, exotic itineraries in Asia Africa often combine longer land tours with time on the rivers. AmaWaterways offers a huge selection of complimentary drinks onboard its European cruises. Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity: Which Cruise Line Is Best for You. One of the best seats in the house onboard Viking's Longships, the Aquavit Terrace beautifully combines indoor/outdoor dining with a casual feel. 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. Like Viking's Longships, most of AmaWaterways' European ships are 443 feet long, the maximum length to make it through the lock systems on Rhine and Danube cruises. With an innovative product and rapidly-growing fleet of custom-designed ships, the line enjoys a reputation as the leader in river cruising. Selected drinks are included at meal times on the following cruise lines: AmaWaterways That said, no matter which cruise line you choose to travel with, its safe to say youll never be bored! 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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. Final payment is due 90 days before the cruise. Ocean cruisers whove wanted to try a river cruise but have been afraid of feeling too confined will likely find AmaMagna more to their taste. These include Tauck, Scenic, APT and Crystal, followed by Uniworld and AmaWaterways. She is awesome!!! Our land packages include some of the most amazing destinations pre- and/or post-cruise but, what's included? Both itineraries are open for sale now, with Karst encouraging the audience of the 'Sip & Sail' event to "contact your travel . Discover local culture and sights on included tours, and then hop back on your luxurious river cruise ship and sail to the next stunning city or charming town. The four 350-square-foot suites have separate living and sleeping spaces, the former of which has a pull-out sofa that can accommodate two extra guests. Our ships also move along at a gentle pace and you can always see land on both sides of the river, removing any additional anxiety for those who may feel stranded out on the open water. What's Included in Your AMAWaterways River Cruise. Most if not all of the river cruises along the Danube include an optional Mozart concert in Vienna. Alcohol (outside of meals and cocktail hour). Both lines also offer premium excursions, which come at an additional cost. If I get seasick on boats or on ocean cruise ships, will I get seasick on the rivers? But there arent many activities for children, so younger kids might find the experience a little dry. 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. A not-to-be-missed performer. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. AmaWaterways is another well-known and luxurious river cruise line, with a fleet of 26 ships. On board AmaWaterways, you will find cabins with a classy, sleek look and contemporary design. They also have heated swimming pools with swimup bars that are surprisingly large for a river line. Seating on both lines is open, meaning passengers can sit wherever they'd like. Everything is taken care of with no worries. Debuting in 2023 for the first time ever, our unforgettable Seven River Journeys will forever mark their place in history as the longest and most epic river cruises. 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). There are fitness classes (during COVID times, these were provided outdoors, weather permitting, rather than in the fitness center), massages and beauty treatments in the one-room spa and salon, a small pool, and an outdoor giant chess set. These may seem like low amounts, but its important to remember that river cruise ships are far smaller than regular-sized cruise ships. Excursions are operated in small groups of just 10-15 guests. Fully-inclusive river cruises Fully inclusive means that selected drinks such as beer and wine are included at meal times only. 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. ", "Vacationing With Kids? Starting in 2016, it offered "cruise and bike trips on the Rhine, Seine and Douro". The same applies to Australia's Travelmarvel, which is owned by APT (see below). Secrets Akumal was the perfect combination of everything we love. [1] [2] Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. Heres what else you can expect from each room, from least expensive to most. 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. The costs of both Uniworld and Ama river cruises are typically very similar, although Uniworld costs can be higher. Your Cruise Manager will explain more when applicable. After pandemic-induced delays, family-owned river cruise line AmaWaterways had a big year in 2021, debuting three new ships to its international fleet, including the AmaSiena, sister to the AmaLea and AmaKristina, which was christened on Europes Rhine River in August 2021. Ukraine, Russia, and Egypt are also scheduled countries for Viking River Cruises. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Most European river cruises will be all-inclusive when it comes to food and beverages. The onboard entertainment strives to immerse you in local culture during your trip, with live music, storytellers, and dancers who live and work in the destinations the ships travel to.
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