AMAWATERWAYS ANNOUNCES SUSPENSION OF REMAINING 2020 RIVER CRUISE SEASON
(Oct. 19, 2020) – AmaWaterways has announced the suspension of its remaining 2020 river cruise season, including all regularly scheduled departures in Europe, Asia, and Africa. This suspension does not apply to the chartered river cruise series on the Rhine that has been in operation since July.
To accommodate those booked on a 2020 affected sailing, the leading river cruise line has offered a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equal to 115 percent of the value of AmaWaterways purchased services, allowing guests to reschedule their luxurious river cruise in Europe, Asia, or Africa through December 31, 2022.
“We are so thankful for the patience and understanding of our guests and travel agent partners,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Although this year has brought many unprecedented challenges, it has also underscored the importance of facing these obstacles with flexibility and optimism. We are confident that our 2021 and 2022 river cruise season will create incredible experiences and cherished memories that are well worth the wait!”
As a debt-free company in a position of financial strength, AmaWaterways remains focused on the future and has its European fleet and crew ready to resume sailing in spring 2021, as long as international travel restrictions are lifted and guests can travel safely. The pent-up demand for intimate river cruise holidays continues to rise among travellers who appreciate the personalisation and security that comes with cruising on luxurious, small ships travelling on inland waterways to less-visited towns and villages. Of particular interest is the award-winning and ultra-spacious AmaMagna, offering suites 355 to 710 sq ft, four restaurants and an expansive Zen Wellness Studio, sailing the upper and lower Danube with a host of exclusive experiences included.
In 2021, the river cruise line will introduce two new ships to the Rhine and five new itineraries and land programmes throughout Europe. Additionally, AmaWaterways will return to the Nile river onboard the newly designed AmaDahlia for the Secrets of Egypt & The Nile itinerary where guests will experience the marvelous history of Egypt and visit highly sought-after destinations.
Guests and travel agent partners can view the latest updates on AmaWaterways.co.uk/travel-updates.
AMAWATERWAYS PIONEERS RIVER CRUISING’S RETURN
Guildford, UK – (Jul. 23, 2020) –
Luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways has announced it has resumed operations in Europe with a series of charter sailings onboard AmaKristina, catering for local German guests. The company has warmly welcomed its first new guests while implementing enhanced health and safety protocols on board its award-winning ships.
“As the proud Godmother of our award-winning AmaKristina, I am honoured that she was our very first river cruise ship to set sail in Europe this summer,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Although many countries continue to have travel restrictions in place, we have begun operating a series of sailings for European guests, in collaboration with an established German tour operator, e-hoi. With these sailings, we have been able to put into practice and perfect our enhanced health and safety protocols while demonstrating that travellers can enjoy our unforgettable river cruise holidays with peace of mind.”
AmaWaterways’ new procedures reflect the in-depth recommendations contained within the EU Healthy Gateways guidelines, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), IG RiverCruise and other official authorities. The health and safety protocols are aimed to protect guests’ and crew members’ wellbeing while delivering the warm and friendly experience for which AmaWaterways is known. Based on current regulations, pre-boarding health questionnaires are required, and guests and crew are both subject to daily temperature checks. The crew has received in-depth updated training and each ship will have a designated Public Health Officer overseeing the application of these specific protocols.
While AmaWaterways’ state-of-the-art ships are spacious in their own right — normally accommodating just 150 guests — current regulations limit all river cruise ships to a maximum of 100 guests on board. Crews are required to wear face coverings at all times while guests must wear them only while moving around the ship. With capacity currently capped, the spacious Main restaurant and the included speciality restaurant, The Chef’s Table, easily accommodate the safe distances now required. New room service options have also been added. In addition, AmaWaterways has incorporated creative ways to accommodate social distancing not only in its lounge areas, with plexiglass dividers, but also with personal portable Quietvox commentary systems to allow guests to hear guides while social distancing during the included small-group shore excursions – many of which involve outdoor hiking and biking tours. Furthermore, AmaWaterways’ ships have been designed with fan coil individual air cooling and heating units, which eliminate any recirculation of air in staterooms or in public areas; and nearly all staterooms include fresh air balconies, letting guests relax there or on the ships’ spacious Sun Decks as they enjoy stunning views along the river.
“Since we started AmaWaterways 18 years ago, we’ve been passionate about creating luxurious, authentic and inspiring river cruises for every traveller,” continued Karst. “The personal connections and warm service experienced during an AmaWaterways river cruise remain as important as ever to us, and the new health and safety protocols just add additional peace of mind for our guests while on board.”
*Media Note: On Tuesday, August 4 (at 8pm UK time) AmaWaterways co-owners will host a virtual press conference for media to provide an update on the status of its operations and the outlook for the future of river cruising. In addition to a short summary of health and safety protocols, the session will also include a Q&A where journalists can ask questions in real time. For more information or to RSVP, please email emma@waddellcommunications.co.uk.
For more information on health and safety protocols, visit www.amawaterways.eu/protocols.
More information about AmaWaterways can be found at www.amawaterways.eu, or call tel: 00 44 333 305 3926.
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône (2021), Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Asia’s Mekong and Africa’s Chobe and Nile Rivers (2021). Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveller; and its award-winning dining—including The Chef’s Table speciality restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising.
AMAWATERWAYS ANNOUNCES RETURN OF “SELL FIVE, SAIL FREE” TRAVEL AGENT INCENTIVE
Guildford, Surrey – (Jul. 22, 2020) –
AmaWaterways today announced the highly anticipated return of its popular Sell Five, Sail Free booking incentive-six months ahead of previous annual launches-giving its valued travel partners more time to earn a much-needed river cruise holiday. Travel agents who book five new FIT bookings between 22 July 2020 and 31 December 2021 will earn a complimentary seven-night AmaWaterways river cruise for themselves and a companion. As an added bonus this year, agents who make 10 or more new FIT bookings will have the opportunity to be among the first guests to sail on board the spectacular AmaDahlia, debuting on Egypt’s Nile River in September 2021.
Jamie Loizou, Managing Director commented “We recognise that it has been a tough few months for our travel partners. Despite that, our 2021 and 2022 sales are strong, with June in particular seeing our highest ever sales for future bookings. As a 100% trade focused business, the travel trade is fundamental to our success and the early launch of our ‘Sell five, Sail free’ incentive is our way of showing how much we appreciate their support. We look forward to welcoming them back on-board soon.”
As an added incentive for guests to book before 30 September 2020, AmaWaterways are offering savings of up to €1,150 per person on balcony staterooms and Suites on selected 2021 Christmas Market cruises and savings of up to €650 per person on selected 2021 European sailings.
With AmaWaterways’ Sell Five, Sail Free programme, travel agents who make five qualifying new FIT bookings between 15 July 2020 and 31 December 2021 will receive a complimentary double occupancy stateroom on a seven-night cruise through Europe or Asia in 2021 or 2022. With a minimum of 10 bookings, agents will earn a free cruise aboard their choice of the award-winning AmaMagna cruising the Danube or the new AmaDahlia, sailing through Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Launching in September 2021, AmaDahlia will transport guests to ancient times on the legendary Nile River, where they will uncover the storied treasures that have shaped Egypt’s past and influence its future. In true AmaWaterways tradition, travellers will enjoy exquisite cuisine, warm service, expertly guided tours and elegantly appointed staterooms on board the intimate 68-guest AmaDahlia. Most staterooms will boast AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, featuring both a French and outside balcony, allowing guests to marvel at the region’s romantic desert hills, lush oases and ancient colonnaded temples.
To book an AmaWaterways river cruise, contact your preferred Travel Agent, call +44 (0)333 305 3926 or visit AmaWaterways.eu
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône (2021), Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Asia’s Mekong and Africa’s Chobe and Nile Rivers (2021). Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveller; and its award-winning dining, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travellers and families as well as group and charter options.
With the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA, AmaWaterways has received countless honours and accolades including Cruise Critic’s 2019 Editor’s Pick Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and “Best for Active Cruisers,” 2018 AFAR Reader’s Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and inclusion of AmaMagna in 2019 TIME “World’s Greatest Places.” In addition, 18 river cruise ships in its European fleet have earned the Green Award certification, recognised for industry-leading safety, quality and environmental performance.
Terms & Conditions: Sell Five Sail Free is valid for new bookings for 2021 sailings made between July 22, 2020 and December 31, 2021. Bookings made through Tour Operators, not through AmaWaterways do not qualify; other restrictions may apply, ask for details. Travel agent can only book a free cruise within 60 days and once all 5 bookings have paid in full. To book a free cruise onboard AmaMagna or AmaDahlia, 10 bookings are required and must have paid in full. Free cruises not available on Africa Safari & Wildlife Cruises and Portugal Cruises. Groups are eligible, with one group counting as one booking. Bookings on selected enhanced tactical offers do not count towards the incentive. Visit AmaWaterways’ Travel Agent Portal for full terms and conditions.
AMAWATERWAYS DEBUTS 2021 “A CELEBRATION OF WINE RIVER CRUISES THROUGH EUROPE” E-BROCHURE
– (May. 15, 2020) – Travel Advisors and Guests Get a Taste During Virtual “Sip & Sail” Event on May 21
Calabasas, CA – (Thursday, May 14, 2020) – AmaWaterways, the luxury river cruise line known for curating incredible epicurean experiences, today launched its new e-brochure “A Celebration of Wine River Cruises Through Europe”, detailing more than 60 exclusive wine-themed departures planned for its upcoming 2021 season. Three all-new itineraries will showcase the famed vineyards and historic sights of Europe, including AmaWaterways’ first journey into France’s Burgundy region.
Specially designed to further immerse guests into the history of Europe’s renowned wine regions, each Celebration of Wine River Cruise is hosted by a qualified North American wine expert, who brings hand-selected wines on board to serve during a special meal and tastings. Some wines come from the expert’s own winery and other varieties are sourced from wineries located along the river cruise itinerary. Welcoming between 102 and 196 guests, the wine-themed river cruises provide a unique and delicious dimension to already enticing itineraries – at no additional cost.
“When we launched our first hosted wine cruises in 2010, we simply wanted to share our appreciation of wine and showcase the enjoyment of both New World and Old World varietals through interesting excursions and fun wine tastings. The response we have received has been remarkable, and each year we have added more departures with interesting wine experts representing vineyards from across the country,” said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-founder. “Whether you are a wine lover, a knowledgeable connoisseur or simply enjoy a sip here and there, our intimate Celebration of Wine River Cruises provide an added dimension to the river cruise experience. We look forward to welcoming guests on more than the 60 wine cruises on 19 itineraries planned for 2021!”
Catering to the growing demand for its French itineraries, AmaWaterways will debut two new itineraries in 2021 both offering select Celebration of Wine River Cruise departures:
Marking AmaWaterways’ first entrance in the Burgundy region of France, the Essence of Burgundy & Provence itinerary showcases traditional French wine and cuisine in one delectable river cruise. Guests will uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur-Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. This wine cruise will explore French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, inviting guests to taste their way through the French culinary capital of Lyon. Guests may opt to join a scenic cruise to Mâcon to enjoy a tasting of Mâconnais wines, a visit to a local French cooking school in Valence, a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet and many other food, wine and wellness focused excursions.
Onboard Impressions of the Seine & Paris, guests will discover the most renowned Parisian destinations as well as sites memorialized by famous Impressionist painters along France’s Seine River. Sailing onboard AmaDante from Paris to Le Havre (or reverse) guests are immersed in the best of Northern France, including quaint towns and Normandy’s historic hubs. Beyond idyllic scenery at every turn, guests will enjoy traditional culinary treasures including Norman chocolate, cheese, apple-based Calvados and local cider. Highlight pre- or post-cruise are three nights in St. Malo with a visit to the magical island monastery of Mont St. Michel.
Also new for 2021, Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps itinerary will captivate guests sailing the legendary Rhine river, contoured by vineyard-clad hills and castles. The seven-night cruise explores the allure of France’s Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and in Riquewihr, a small town known for its cobbled streets of quaint tasting rooms and wine shops. Additional highlights include Breisach, rising above the vineyards of the Rhine, and Freiburg, one of Germany’s sunniest cities and gateway to the Black Forest. In these fabled towns lost in time, guests will taste local flavors and touch history up close with guided hikes and bike rides. From Amsterdam’s colorful canals to the majestic Swiss Alps, this wine cruise is a journey into the heart of each destination.
For a unique and interactive firsthand look into the epicurean wine cruise journey, join AmaWaterways’ virtual “Sip & Sail” on May 21 at 3pm PST on a Facebook Live. Karst will be joined by several guests including wine educator, award-winning author, and television host, Leslie Sbrocco who will serve as the virtual Wine Host, guiding guests through wine tastings and sharing of memorable experiences and culinary delights waiting to be discovered along the Celebration of Wine River Cruise on the Danube River. Visit Facebook.com/AmaWaterways for details on the event.
About AmaWaterways
A family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river, AmaWaterways offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône (2021), Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Dutch and Belgian Waterways and Douro Rivers, Southeast Asia’s Mekong, Africa’s Chobe River and Egypt’s Nile River (2021). Led by experienced river cruise co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its innovative stateroom design featuring unique “twin balconies;” its wellness activities including a wide choice of included shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options for the active traveler; and its award-winning dining—including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant as well as complimentary fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, each ship features onboard amenities such as hair and massage salons and a fitness room, and many have heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, which at twice the width of traditional river ships, offers a new dimension in luxury river cruising. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travelers and families as well as group and charter options.
With the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA, AmaWaterways has received countless honors and accolades including Cruise Critic’s 2019 Editor’s Pick Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and “Best for Active Cruisers,” 2018 AFAR Reader’s Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and inclusion of AmaMagna in 2019 TIME “World’s Greatest Places.”
