When I booked my first AMA Waterways river cruise I didn’t know what to expect. In fact, I was afraid that river cruising would not be for me. I expected it to be filled with people who were stuffy and uptight. I thought I’d be bored to pieces with a bunch of well seasoned human beings but boy were my preconceived notions wrong! Like, 100% wrong about river cruising!
But first, what’s a river cruise anyway?
In one sentence, river cruises are small ship cruises that give culture immersed experiences into the rivers around the world.
Most Americans are familiar with ocean cruises and how they have been a popular way to vacation for decades, and for good reason. They’re affordable, convenient and offer travelers peace of mind knowing that everything they need for a fantastic getaway is all in one place. Could a river cruise be better than that? A resounding, YES!
There are several different river cruise companies to choose from but for now let’s just focus on AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways river cruises combine all the comfort and convenience of an ocean cruise with the excitement of European, Asian, and African excursions at each port of call.
Here are the top 5 reasons why you’ll love river cruising, specifically on AmaWaterways!
1. Expand Your Options
While ocean cruises take you to countries, river cruises take you through them. There simply is no way to reach river cruise destinations on mega cruise ships.
2. Intimate Experience
River cruising offers a more intimate setting. Most ships range from 144 to 196 passengers. This means that you’ll never have to wait in line, which means you’ll have more time to enjoy all the amenities and have a more personal experience with other passengers and crew. From ordering a beverage to getting on and off the ship, you’ll enjoy the absence of long lines.
3. Dive into the Local Culture
Get away from the touristy ports and explore hidden gems. Large ocean liner ports can receive up to 20,000 visitors on the same day but with a river cruise, you’ll arrive into port with only a few hundred visitors. Not only will you avoid long lines at your destination, but you’ll also enjoy leisurely excursions at each incredible port of call. You’ll be able to take in the local culture and history of every unique town that you visit.
4. No Need to Rush Back
With many departures from the destinations being later in the afternoon or evening, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the nightlife in select ports of call. Whether you choose an evening walk through cobblestone streets, a local show or performance, or one last glass of wine after dinner while listening to a local musician, immersing yourself in the evening culture together with the locals is a unique experience.
5. Castle Views
That’s right, castle views. From Amsterdam to Basel along the Rhine River, and in Budapest, Bratislava, Durnstein, and Passau on the Danube, you’ll see colorful architecture and castles that will blow you away. But don’t stop at just viewing the castles, why not hike or drive to them and then explore their fabulousness with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll literally be walking in the footsteps of world history.
So, there you have it 5 great reasons why you’ll love your first river cruise on AmaWaterways.
I’d love to match your travel style with the right itinerary and ship. Reach out to me today and be sure to mention if you’re planning a romantic getaway, bachelorette trip or a friends’ reunion and I’ll let you know the add-ons available that will make your experience truly special.