The European river cruise season just keeps getting longer. In 2024, AmaWaterways will kick off its season on February 11 with two ships on the Danube and Rhine rivers. The luxury river line says the early start is a direct response to the increased demand for new off-season travel options.
That's just one of several key trends that AmaWaterways says are setting the stage for a bright future of the river cruise industry.
Couple in Paris, France (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
With record results for 2023 and continued strong growth forecast for 2024 and 2025, AmaWaterways says it is embracing the following trends:
Off-Season Travel: As more travellers recognize the benefits of off-season travel, AmaWaterways is launching its 2024 river cruise season early in Europe, with special cruises on the Rhine and Danube rivers on board AmaMagna and AmaLucia. These cruises, along with December cruises on the Douro River, offer guests quieter travel periods with fewer crowds and reduced airfares while extending economic benefits to local communities for more months of the year.
Importance of Sustainability: For 21 years, AmaWaterways has continuously implemented important measures to minimize its environmental impact and enhance the communities visited. Twenty of the ships in its European fleet have received the prestigious Green Award, recognizing quality, safety and environmental performance. The company has also replaced buffets with full service à la carte menus, anticipating a 30% reduction in waste while providing a higher level of service for guests.
Journeys are filled with enriching opportunities. (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
Experiential Travel: With travellers seeking longer, immersive and authentic experiences, AmaWaterways caters to this trend by offering experiences including culinary excursions, local entertainment and seasonal events. The line works closely with local communities to offer its guests tourism activities that are respectful of the culture and environment and showcase local talents and traditions. The wide range of small-group excursions, led by knowledgeable local guides, offers guests a more intimate and genuine understanding of regional heritage, landmarks and traditions while providing employment opportunities and economic benefits to local communities.
Wellness: Health is a priority for many travellers today, and they are seeking experiences that foster physical, mental and emotional well-being. AmaWaterways offers guests a robust Wellness Program on board, featuring fitness rooms, various classes led by professional Wellness Hosts and a full-sized pickleball court on board AmaMagna. Onshore, included activities such as hiking, cycling and guided walks allow guests to stay active while exploring.
Vegetable lasagna with layered garden vegetables, black bean mousse and lime salsa. (Photo Credit: AmaWaterways)
Culinary and Wine Experiences: Exploring regional cuisine fosters a deeper appreciation for a destination's history, culture and people. AmaWaterways takes pride in its award-winning cuisine that highlights regional and seasonal dishes while catering to diverse dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. In response to continued guest interest in delving into famed culinary and wine regions, AmaWaterways will debut its all-new Flavors of Burgundy seven-night itinerary in 2024, sailing between the Port of Saint-Jean-de-Losne, near the city of Dijon, and Lyon, the gastronomical capital of France.
Personalization: Personalized experiences are essential to affluent travellers and AmaWaterways offers guests the choice from up to 23 included shore excursions during a seven-night cruise. This freedom of choice allows guests to tailor their vacation to their interests, whether that be history, art, music, hiking and biking or food and wine.
AmaWaterways co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst (Photo Credit: Theresa Norton)
"Our goal has always been to exceed our guests' expectations and cruising with AmaWaterways will more than satisfy these new trends identified for 2024," said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president.
"We have an ongoing commitment to implementing eco-friendly practices, and offer an early season start for those seeking more intimate experiences. We are enhancing our already robust Wellness Program and offer an extensive choice of included excursions and themed cruises. We are excited to see that travellers of all ages and those with special interests are driving a record level of river cruise bookings for the year ahead."
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