AmaWaterways is welcoming the arrival of its 2022 European season with reservations and easing of entry requirements, plus unique experiences on the Nile.
The AmaMagna on the Danube River became the first of its 21-ship European fleet to start the spring season on March 6 in Budapest. The launch of the new European season continues from March 17 onward with five ships dedicated to the popular Tulip Time cruises, five ships cruising the scenic rivers of France and another 10 ships welcoming guests on the Rhine, Moselle, Danube and Douro rivers. With an average of fewer than 150 guests on board, an abundance of personal space and a personalized way of experiencing some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, AmaWaterways is experiencing a strong growth in demand from both returning guests and travelers new to river cruising.
“After missing many celebrations with family and friends over the past two years, there is incredible pent-up demand, with travelers anxious to pack their bags and start fulfilling their travel ‘must do’ list,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, in a press statement. “A desire to step away from the day-to-day and reconnect with the world is driving demand for longer cruises, itineraries that include exclusive events and those that take guests to more exotic destinations like on our 11-night Secrets of Egypt & The Nile cruise and land itinerary, our Mekong River cruises or our Africa Safaris & Wildlife cruises.”
An Excursion to Floriade on Nine Different River Cruise Itineraries
A highlight this year for all guests embarking or disembarking their river cruise in Amsterdam is a visit to the once-in-a-decade horticultural event, Floriade Expo. The flourishing city district of Almere will host The Netherlands’ largest public event with the theme “Growing Green Cities.” This expo features gardens, innovative sustainable gardening exhibits, live entertainment and food stalls.
Between April 14 and Oct. 9, 2022, AmaWaterways guests have the opportunity to visit Floriade as a complimentary excursion on several distinctive river cruise itineraries sailing along the Rhine and Dutch and Belgian Waterways, including:
- Best of Holland & Belgium – sailing roundtrip from Amsterdam (new for 2022)
- Tulip Time – sailing roundtrip from Amsterdam
- Captivating Rhine and Enchanting Rhine – sailing between Amsterdam and Basel
- Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps – sailing from Amsterdam to Basel (new for 2022)
- Rhine & Moselle Fairytales and Rhine & Moselle Delights – sailing between Amsterdam and Basel
- Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle – sailing from Amsterdam to Luxembourg
- Treasures of the Main & Rhine – sailing from Nuremberg to Amsterdam
Immersive Experiences in France and Portugal
River cruising in France has added appeal this year with five ships on four rivers and turnaround days on Thursdays contributing to the ease of combining itineraries for longer more immersive stays exploring the diverse food, wine and culture of the different regions. In high demand is the award-winning AmaKristina, the only twin-balcony ship in France, cruising for her first full season on the Rhone River between Lyon and Avignon. Also extremely popular are Portugal cruises on board AmaDouro and sister ship AmaVida, which kick off the Douro River sailings on March 26.
Discovery of Egypt’s Nile River
A unique experience for 2022 is the Secrets of Egypt & The Nile itinerary on board AmaDahlia, which debuted this past fall. Guests travel through the heart of Egypt as they experience the Nile’s life-giving waters and discover the ancient treasures that line its banks. Guided by Egyptologists, guests visit legendary locations like the Great Hypostyle Hall of Karnak, the beguiling Temple of Luxor, and the mystifying Valley of the Kings and Queens, as well the exclusive private access to the Tomb of Queen Nefertari and a Nubian village. While in Cairo staying at the luxurious Four Seasons Cairo at the First Residence, travelers come face-to-face with Egyptian treasures like the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the 4,000-year-old Great Sphinx and three Pyramids of Giza; the Egyptian Museum, featuring the exquisite collections of King Tut; and a private tour and lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace, considered one of the most luxurious palaces in the world.
Unforgettable Journeys with Ancestry Heritage & Wine River Cruises
AmaWaterways’ 2022 season includes journeys on 15 rivers in 31 destinations for returning guests and new-to-river cruisers seeking an intimate, luxurious escape. Whether looking to celebrate the festive holiday season with family and friends, embark on an extended journey to celebrate one of life’s milestone events, discover more about one’s personal heritage during a genealogist hosted Rhine cruise with ancestry.com, or indulge during one of 60 Celebration of Wine cruises, AmaWaterways’ 2022 program features a variety of options to suit all types of travelers.
“Whether traveling solo, as a couple or with a group of family and friends, our crew can hardly wait to welcome new and returning guests on board this year as we mark our 20 years on the rivers,” said Karst. “An AmaWaterways river cruise offers endless opportunities for guests to re-connect while exploring dream destinations with convenience and peace of mind!”
For more information, visit amawaterways.com.
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