AmaWaterways 2026 and 2027 River Cruises: Itineraries, Highlights, and Insider Advice
- Emma Guse
- Aug 20
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Planning a river cruise for 2026 or 2027 might feel far away, but the truth is, now is the time to book. When it comes to AmaWaterways, booking early isn’t just about locking in your preferred stateroom, but about giving yourself the widest choice of routes, sailing dates, and even special seasonal sailings that tend to disappear quickly.
That’s where I come in. My role as a river cruise travel agent is to sift through the endless options and highlight what actually matters: which 2026 and 2027 AmaWaterways itineraries deliver the most value, which sailings are especially well-suited for first-timers or groups, and which ones stand out as once-in-a-lifetime experiences worth planning around.
I’ve walked these cobblestone streets, cruised these rivers, and spent hours helping clients navigate decisions just like the one you might be making now. This isn’t a sales pitch, but an insider’s guide. My goal is to help you picture yourself on the rivers of Europe (or beyond), with clarity about which journey is the right one for you. So let’s look at the highlights of AmaWaterways’ 2026 and 2027 cruises, along with some honest advice you won’t find in the brochures.
Europe’s Signature Rivers: 2026 & 2027 AmaWaterways Highlights
The Danube River: A First-Timer’s Dream
The Danube remains AmaWaterways’ crown jewel, flowing through cultural capitals like Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava. For 2026 and 2027, they continue to expand options for multi-generational families, foodies, and music lovers.
Signature Itineraries:
Melodies of the Danube (Budapest to Vilshofen) – A favorite for first-timers, blending castles, wine tastings, and UNESCO heritage towns.
Blue Danube Discovery – Ideal for history buffs with stops in Prague (pre- or post-cruise) and Vienna’s imperial sights.
Christmas Markets on the Danube – A magical seasonal option that combines the warmth of Advent traditions with Ama’s signature culinary experiences.
Insider Advice: Cabins with French balconies or twin balconies sell first for Christmas Markets and summer peak season. If you’re eyeing 2026 or 2027, now is the time to secure the perfect stateroom.
The Rhine River: Castles, Vineyards, and Christmas Magic
The Rhine offers storybook villages and fairytale castles perched above vineyards. AmaWaterways' Rhine River itineraries continue to be best-sellers in both summer and the Christmas season.
Signature Itineraries:
Enchanting Rhine (Amsterdam to Basel) – Great for art lovers and those who want to combine Europe’s big cities with charming small towns.
Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps – Includes Switzerland pre- or post-cruise extensions, a client favorite for combining river cruising with the Alps.
Christmas Markets on the Rhine – I sailed this in 2024 on the Taste of Christmas Markets itinerary, and Basel and Strasbourg were standouts for their festive markets.
Insider Advice: If you’re torn between the Rhine and Danube for your first river cruise, check out my full guide: Danube vs. Rhine River Cruise: How to Choose.
The Douro River: Portugal’s Golden Route
Portugal continues to rise in popularity, and AmaWaterways' Enticing Douro remains one of the most sought-after sailings. With vineyards carved into hillsides and Porto’s old-world charm, it’s the kind of cruise that blends relaxation with culture.
Signature Itinerary:
Enticing Douro (Porto roundtrip) – Wine tastings, historic monasteries, and charming villages make this itinerary a must for couples and groups of friends.
Insider Advice: The Douro is a seasonal river (March–November), and AmaWaterways' ships here are slightly smaller. Cabins book up as much as 18 months in advance, especially for September/October harvest season.
France: Seine, Rhône, and Saône
AmaWaterways offers multiple ways to experience France, each with its own personality.
Seine River: Paris & Normandy (roundtrip Paris) – Perfect for history lovers and anyone who wants to pair a cruise with time in Paris.
Rhône/Saône Rivers: Colors of Provence – Famous for lavender fields (June/July) and food/wine pairings in Lyon and Avignon.
Insider Advice: France itineraries pair beautifully with pre- or post-cruise stays in Paris, Geneva, or Barcelona. Many of my clients extend to maximize airfare value.
Beyond Europe: Exotic AmaWaterways Cruises for 2026 & 2027
AmaWaterways isn’t just about Europe anymore; 2026 and 2027 continues to expand opportunities for adventurous travelers:
Mekong River: Vietnam & Cambodia itineraries remain among AmaWaterways' most enriching, with temple visits, floating markets, and cultural immersion.
Magdalena River (Colombia): Newly launched in 2025, this itinerary is still the company's boldest addition in years, bringing music, wildlife, and vibrant Colombian culture to river cruising.
Nile River: AmaWaterways' Secrets of Egypt & the Nile offers a luxurious exploration of ancient history, paired with Cairo and often Jordan extensions.
Planning Tips for AmaWaterways 2026 & 2027 River Cruises
Booking early for 2026 and 2027 isn’t just about securing a stateroom, but about maximizing value and peace of mind. Here’s what I advise my clients:
Cabin Selection Matters: Twin-balcony cabins offer incredible flexibility and are often my top recommendation. Suites book the fastest, but even French balconies sell early on Christmas Markets and Douro sailings.
Flights & Transfers: I typically recommend booking airfare as a part of your river cruise package, but can also help with independent flight coordination if desired, ensuring transfers and arrival times are seamless.
Groups & Multi-Generational Travel: Many AmaWaterways itineraries offer family-friendly cabins and connecting rooms. If you’re planning for friends or extended family, I can negotiate special group amenities.
Excursions & Customization: AmaWaterways includes all of your daily excursions and they are truly incredible. I can also help clients map out which are must-do and which days might be better enjoyed onboard or privately.
Insurance & Peace of Mind: Especially with longer lead times, travel insurance (with pre-existing condition coverage if purchased early) is a must. I will help you navigate the nuances and options.
Frequently Asked Questions (Expanded)
Q: How far in advance should I book for 2026 or 2027?
A: For peak times (Christmas Markets, summer on the Danube, harvest season in Portugal), 12–18 months in advance is best. Suites often sell out first. That being said, I can also help you find last-minute deals on river cruise bookings if needed.
Q: Can I use AmaWaterways promotions if I book through you?
A: Yes. You’ll always receive AmaWaterways’ current promotions, and sometimes I can unlock exclusive offers or combinable perks that aren’t obvious on the website. My planning services are 100% complimentary and layered on top of the cruise line's promotions.
Q: What’s included in AmaWaterways pricing?
A: Wine, beer, and soft drinks at meals; daily excursions; Wi-Fi; and often special events like private concerts. Gratuities and airport transfers are extra. For a more detailed breakdown of how much a river cruise really costs, read this post.
Q: What’s the dress code onboard AmaWaterways?
A: AmaWaterways is relaxed compared to ocean cruising. Resort casual works for most of the trip, and while some guests like to dress up for the Captain’s Dinner, there’s no formal dress code. Think comfortable by day, slightly polished by night.
Q: What fitness and wellness options are available onboard?
A: AmaWaterways leads the industry in wellness. Every ship has a dedicated Wellness Host, daily activities like yoga or guided stretching, a gym, walking track, and complimentary bicycles you can use onshore. For food, there are always light and healthy menu options alongside regional specialties.
Q: Are AmaWaterways cruises good for kids or families?
A: While not Disney-style entertainment, AmaWaterways is a fantastic choice for intergenerational families and mature kids (often 7+). My own family (4 generations) is booked on AmaWaterways in 2026, and it’s one of the best ways to share Europe across generations.
Q: Do they accommodate special diets?
A: Yes. AmaWaterways offers excellent vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals, and the culinary team can customize dishes with advance notice. I always flag dietary preferences when arranging a booking.
Q: What about solo travelers?
A: AmaWaterways often waives or reduces the single supplement on select 2026 and 2027 sailings. Their ships are also boutique-sized, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers over meals or excursions.
Q: Is AmaWaterways better for couples or groups?
A: Both. Couples love the romantic staterooms and slower pace, while groups of friends, clubs, or extended families enjoy having a “floating boutique hotel” all together. I often arrange special perks for groups, from special gatherings to custom transfers.
Do I Need to Use a Travel Agent to Book an AmaWaterways Cruise?
Here’s something most people don’t realize: a travel advisor’s commission is already built into the cost of every AmaWaterways cruise, whether you use one or not. If you book directly, you’re essentially paying for a service you don’t receive. AmaWaterways has always been clear: they want you to book with a trusted advisor. Why? Because they know your trip will be smoother, less stressful, and far more rewarding when you have an expert guiding you.
That’s where I come in. I’m not a 1-800 number or a faceless call center. I’ll be your direct line to AmaWaterways. I’m in regular contact with them (weekly, sometimes daily), and I’ll be the one emailing, calling, and handling logistics on your behalf. You’ll never find yourself stuck on hold, explaining your story over and over again.
When you work with me, here’s what you can count on:
Before your cruise: I’ll make sure every detail is in place (airfare, transfers, hotels, excursions), so you’re never scrambling or second-guessing.
During your cruise: If anything unexpected comes up, you won’t be left on your own. I’m just a phone call or message away, and I will work to resolve issues quickly.
After you return home: My service doesn’t stop when you disembark. I’ll follow up to ensure your journey was everything you hoped for, and I’ll help you plan the next one when you’re ready.
Most importantly, you don’t pay a penny extra for this level of service and expertise. My services are complimentary since AmaWaterways has already built advisor support into the cruise fare. Booking direct may seem “simpler,” but in reality, it leaves you without an advocate and without the personal touch that turns a great trip into a more seamless experience.
Even if you don’t book through me, I strongly recommend choosing a travel advisor you trust. AmaWaterways designs their pricing and policies with advisors in mind, because they know their guests are happier and better cared for when someone is walking alongside them.
Final Thoughts: Booking an AmaWaterways River Cruise
AmaWaterways continues to set the standard for boutique, luxury river cruising. With 2026 itineraries filling quickly and 2027 already opening, now is the time to secure your dream river cruise, whether it’s the Danube, Rhine, Douro, Seine, or farther afield on the Mekong, Nile, or Magdalena.
If you’ve been dreaming about castles, vineyards, Christmas markets, or world-class cuisine, let’s make it happen. Planning a river cruise shouldn’t feel stressful, but exciting. And with my complimentary services, insider access, and personal touch, you can simply enjoy the anticipation while I handle the details.
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Emma Guse is a River Cruise Specialist with Travelmation, helping solo travelers, couples, families, and groups plan unforgettable river cruises with ease. Known for her down-to-earth style and expert guidance, she handles the details so you can focus on making memories.
Emma's services are 100% complimentary and included in the base rates of every river cruise line. Learn more about Emma HERE or submit an inquiry HERE.