Discover the Danube and see why this river inspired artists, poets and musicians. Indulge your passion for timeless architecture and art in four magnificent capitals: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague. Cruise through the Strudengau Valley and let melodies of the Danube carry you from one gem to another on a journey through time.

  Luxury River Cruise Line Welcomes First Guests Onboard Its Stunning New Ship for a Sailing Filled with Egyptian Culture, Regional Cuisine and Exclusive Experiences  Award-winning luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways celebrated the launch of its newest ship – AmaDahlia – on the Nile River on September 6, sailing the Secrets of Egypt & The Nile itinerary. During the festivities, co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst surprised the ship’s first guests by joining them for a cocktail hour at the five-star Four Seasons Hotel Cairo At The First Residence where all guests enjoyed their four-day pre-cruise land packages. Guests then boarded the ship in Luxor where they were greeted by local musicians and an Egyptian whirling dervish performance before exploring the stunning AmaDahlia and embarking on an unforgettable 7-night river cruise experience. (Click HERE for a ship tour YouTube video.)   “I am absolutely delighted to have our wonderful new AmaDahlia sailing the Nile River,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “It was truly such a joy to be with our guests as together we discovered the beautiful setting on board, reflecting the local culture and distinctive art of the region. Egypt has a very special place in my heart, and I am so excited to have many more guests experience the beauty of AmaDahlia and the unparalleled experiences that this itinerary offers.” In addition to having the river cruise line’s co-founders present during the ship’s inaugural sailing, guests also had the opportunity to interact with AmaWaterways’ Egyptian partner, Ahmed Atef El Wassief, president of Wings for Tourism Investment – an integrated travel services company known for their dedication to hospitality and professionalism and close collaboration with international partners. “We are so appreciative of our Egyptian partners, who helped us launch AmaDahlia on time to start her inaugural season as planned this September,” said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Their local experience has been critical throughout all the design and construction period and we look forward to continuing to work together to share the iconic wonders of Egypt with our guests.” Featuring 36 staterooms including 16 magnificent suites between 370 and 430 sq. ft., the luxurious 72-passenger AmaDahlia offers an intimate atmosphere with an abundance of space for guests to relax and unwind after a day of awe-inspiring discovery. Designed to reflect the culture of the region, AmaDahlia welcomes guests aboard with vibrant colors and patterns, along with inviting public spaces to take in the stunning views of the Nile River. The ship boasts a wealth of amenities including a swimming pool and bar on the Sun Deck, as well as delectable locally sourced cuisine at the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Al Fresco Restaurant located on an open deck affording spectacular views. During their cruise, guests are pampered by the gracious Egyptian crew while discovering the marvels of ancient Egyptian history and breathtaking landscapes along the Nile River. AmaDahlia's immersive 11-night Secrets of Egypt & The Nile itinerary invites guests to explore ancient civilization with authentic, small group-guided shore excursions led by Egyptologists. The river cruise operates seasonally from September through June each year, sailing round trip from Luxor to Aswan with intra-Egypt flights between Cairo and Luxor. Days are spent discovering remarkable landmarks like the Temple of Luxor and Valley of Kings and Queens and coming face-to-face with wonders like the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza. When arriving back onboard, guests are treated to local entertainment and informative sessions led by expertly trained Egyptologists, who provide insider knowledge about the many mysteries and secrets that have shaped Egypt. The 11-night cruise and land itinerary includes three nights in Cairo pre-cruise and one-night in Cairo post-cruise, where guests stay in the Four Seasons Hotel and enjoy an exclusive private tour and special farewell lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace. To complement this immersive cruise and land adventure, Secrets of Egypt & the Nile is offered with optional extensions including pre-program, three nights in Dubai or four nights in Jordan (Amman and Petra) and post-program, four nights in Israel (Jerusalem). Currently, AmaWaterways welcomes guests who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. For entry into Egypt, travelers must present a printed negative PCR test and complete and carry with them a Egyptian Health Declaration Form (please refer to AmaWaterways Travel Entry Requirements and check specific airline requirements). About AmaWaterways Family-owned and -operated for more than 19 years, AmaWaterways offers unparalleled river cruise experiences with 26 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Douro, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, and Dutch and Belgian Waterways; Southeast Asia’s Mekong River; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and Colombia’s Magdalena River (2023).Co-founded and led by pioneering river cruise executives Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its extraordinarily warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; its wellness activities including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options; and its award-winning, locally sourced cuisine with complimentary fine wine. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, most ships welcome an average of just 150 guests and feature onboard amenities such as a stunning Main Lounge, specialty Chef’s Table restaurant, hair and massage salons, a Sun Deck walking track with heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, and the introduction of the history-making Seven River Journey itineraries. 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.” In addition, 18 river cruise ships in its European fleet have earned the Green Award certification, recognized for industry-leading safety, quality and environmental performance.   MEDIA NOTE: Hi-res images of AmaDahlia can be found on Dropbox HERE   # # #  MEDIA CONTACTS: Samantha Jacobs or Carter Long, Hemsworth Communications (678) 631-9974 or [email protected]

AmaWaterways Executives and Valued Partners Celebrate with Godmother Debbie Fiorino of World Travel Holdings in Lahnstein, Germany    Pictured Left to Right: Rudi Schreiner, President and Co-Founder of AmaWaterways; Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President and Co-Founder of AmaWaterways; Debbie Fiorino, Godmother of AmaSiena with Husband Joe Fiorino; Captain Ronald Schuegard    Award-winning luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways celebrated the christening of its newest ship, AmaSiena, with a joyful ceremony in Lahnstein, Germany on Sunday, August 29. AmaWaterways’ Co-Founders, President Rudi Schreiner and Executive Vice President Kristin Karst joined Godmother Debbie Fiorino, senior vice president and COO of Owned Brands for World Travel Holdings, for a day of festivities officially commemorating the company’s newest edition to its fleet of 26 industry-leading river cruise ships. “The christening ceremony for AmaSiena celebrates our much-anticipated return to the rivers and it is particularly meaningful to have esteemed travel industry leader Debbie Fiorino act as her proud Godmother,” said Karst. “We continue to be inspired by the resiliency, passion and commitment of the travel advisor community and we are so proud to share this christening with the travel advisors and guests that joined us for this special event as well as our dedicated crew members who create the cherished vacation memories for our guests.” Following a long-standing tradition associated with ship christenings dating back thousands of years, Captain Ronald Schuegard assisted as Godmother Fiorino broke a champagne bottle against AmaSiena’s hull, signifying good luck on the journeys ahead. While overlooking a spectacular backdrop of the beautiful town of Lahnstein, guests, media and travel partners enjoyed the ceremonies that continued into the afternoon with a celebratory toast and lunch. “Being part of the travel industry has allowed me to discover so much of the world and AmaWaterways has taken me to many of these amazing places, traveling along iconic rivers visiting spectacular cities and discovering amazing towns like Lahnstein, where we celebrated the christening of AmaSiena,” said Fiorino. “I am honored to act as her Godmother as we celebrate a safe return to the rivers and the promise of a bright future ahead.” Sister ship to AmaLucia, AmaMora, AmaLea, AmaKristina,and AmaSiena features 78 spacious staterooms, the majority of which boast AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, offering panoramic views from both a French and an outside balcony. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining onboard at the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table, as well as a new al fresco area in the Main Lounge that is perfect for casual dining from a bistro-style menu. Hand-selected regional wines and beer are offered during each meal, and guests are invited to savor a complimentary daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour as well. Wellness enthusiasts are invited to join the ship’s dedicated Wellness Host for guided group fitness classes and hiking and biking tours, while those looking to relax can enjoy massage and hair salon services. In addition, AmaSiena features an inviting Main Lounge with spacious seating areas and a heated pool and swim-up bar perfect for enjoying the stunning views along the river while soaking up the sun. AmaSiena will sail a variety of seven-night itineraries on the Rhine river including the Enchanting Rhine, Captivating Rhine and festive Christmas Markets on the Rhine. Starting in 2022, she will also sail the Dutch and Belgium Waterways on the Best of Holland & Belgium itinerary. To get an inside look at AmaSiena’s christening, view the online video on AmaWaterways’ YouTube channel HERE. MEDIA NOTE: Hi-res images of the images in this release can be found HERE. About AmaWaterways Family-owned and -operated for more than 19 years, AmaWaterways offers unparalleled river cruise experiences with 26 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s Danube, Douro, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Saône, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, and Dutch and Belgian Waterways; Southeast Asia’s Mekong River; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and Colombia’s Magdalena River (2023).Co-founded and led by pioneering river cruise executives Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, the company is renowned for its extraordinarily warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; its wellness activities including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options; and its award-winning, locally sourced cuisine with complimentary fine wine. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, most ships welcome an average of just 150 guests and feature onboard amenities such as a stunning Main Lounge, specialty Chef’s Table restaurant, hair and massage salons, a Sun Deck walking track with heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation highlighted with the launch of AmaMagna, and the introduction of the history-making Seven River Journey itineraries. 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.” In addition, 18 river cruise ships in its European fleet have earned the Green Award certification, recognized for industry-leading safety, quality and environmental performance.     # # #  MEDIA CONTACTS: Samantha Jacobs or Carter Long, Hemsworth Communications (678) 631-9974 or [email protected]

Zane Kerby, ASTA President & CEO, and Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of AmaWaterwaysLeading Luxury River Cruise Line Voted Top Partner of the Year for 4th Consecutive Year and River Cruise Line of the Year for 6th Consecutive Year Luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways today proudly announced its two latest industry accolades, presented at the close of the 2021 American Association of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Global Convention – an in-person event held this week in Chicago. For the fourth consecutive year, AmaWaterways was voted the top award, Partner of the Year, recognizing one organization among all cruise, land and air suppliers that goes above and beyond to support travel advisors. In addition, for the sixth year in a row, the line was named River Cruise Line of the Year - serving as a true testament to the unparalleled experiences and support the company provides travel advisors and their clients.   “We are deeply honored to be recognized with these two awards as so much of our success is due to our strong ties with our travel advisor partners and their commitment to work with us to embrace new opportunities that have emerged during these challenging times,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “It is humbling to be once again named ASTA’s top Partner of the Year out of the 500 wonderful brands that that make up ASTA’s travel supplier members. We are committed to listening to our travel partners and being a source of innovative sales and marketing support as international travel makes its exciting come back. On behalf of all our AmaFamily, we cannot thank ASTA members enough for these amazing recognitions!” Created to recognize individuals and organizations making lasting contributions to the travel industry, the ASTA Awards Program honors those who strive to promote excellence within the industry. Each year, nearly 50 awards are presented to winners who are voted on by ASTA members and are presented at ASTA’s annual Global Convention. “We congratulate AmaWaterways on their fourth consecutive year being recognized as ASTA’s supplier Partner of the Year,” said Zane Kerby, president and chief executive officer of ASTA. “They built an enormous amount of trust and admiration through the travel advisor community. Congratulations and thank you for being great partners to ASTA and to the industry.” Over the past year, AmaWaterways has worked diligently to ensure its travel advisor partners are equipped with the tools needed to continue to promote and sell river cruises. Since the beginning of COVID-19 restrictions in 2020, the line quickly adapted to a new type of virtual engagement and has hosted unique training and sales events including weekly Webinar Wednesdays and virtual marketing suitcases, providing advisors a variety of materials to keep their clients excited for a return to the river. Once AmaWaterways resumed sailings in July, a series of 17 executive hosted FAM sailings were launched, giving travel advisors the opportunity to be on board with its leadership team, learning about the product and getting valuable first-hand experience. Along with these sailings, advisors were offered a “Sail with Me” promotion, letting them earn back the cost of their stateroom by making three new FIT bookings for 2021. “Our teams work diligently to ensure travel advisors always feel supported and equipped in every way to sell the AmaWaterways product to their clients, and we are honored to be receiving these awards that recognize these efforts and the value we place on our travel advisor partners,” said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “We look forward to continuing to live up to this recognition and serving the travel advisor community as we launch exciting new itineraries in highly sought-after destinations like the recently announced eco-friendly river cruise and land program for Colombia’s Magdalena River.” 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 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.” In addition, 18 river cruise ships in its European fleet have earned the Green Award certification, recognized for industry-leading safety, quality and environmental performance. About ASTA Rebranded in 2018 as the American Society of Travel Advisors, ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry and the traveling public. Its members represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the United States through the travel agency distribution channel. Together with hundreds of internationally-based members, ASTA’s history of industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 when it launched with the mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. For more information about the Society, visit ASTA.org.   # # #  MEDIA CONTACTS: Samantha Jacobs or Carter Long, Hemsworth Communications (678) 631-9974 or [email protected]

While travelers continue to prioritize health and safety, they are increasingly looking to plan longer, immersive travel experiences to better appreciate nature, live in the moment and reconnect with friends and family, according to AmaWaterways’ Co-owners Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Gary Murphy. The industry-leading executive team is starting 2021 with a look at several positive travel trends driving heightened demand and strong river cruise bookings for the year ahead: “As demand continues to grow for our wine-themed sailings, we are happy to welcome back some very popular wine hosts and also very excited to introduce engaging new hosts,” said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-founder. “Our intimate Celebration of Wine River Cruises provide an added dimension to the river cruise experience as guests are able to explore both New World and Old-World varietals through the lens of an esteemed wine expert while traveling through Europe’s most renowned wine regions.” Each Celebration of Wine River Cruise features enhanced epicurean experiences and is hosted by a qualified wine expert from North America or a featured destination. The hosts bring hand-selected wines on board to serve during a special meal, tastings or seminars, all included in the price of the cruise. Some wines come from the expert’s own winery and other selections are sourced from wineries located along the river cruise itinerary. 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, while inviting all those on board to taste their way through the French culinary capital of Lyon. With the new Impressions of the Seine & Paris itinerary, guests will discover the most renowned Parisian sites as well as gardens memorialized by famous Impressionist painters. Sailing on board AmaDante from Paris to Le Havre (or reverse) guests are immersed in the best of Northern France, with an itinerary designed to provide more free time to enjoy the quaint towns and meandering bike paths along the Seine River. Beyond idyllic scenery at every turn, guests will discover traditional culinary treasures including the rich chocolate, cheese, apple-based Calvados and local cider from the region. Guests can enjoy an optional fully-escorted four night land package in Brittany visiting the historic port of St.Malo and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel. Guests looking for an enhanced wine experience on these two new itineraries can join the following esteemed wine hosts:

• Celebration Travel – With many group gatherings to commemorate milestone birthdays and anniversaries postponed throughout 2020, celebration travel is anticipated to be a top trend among travelers of all ages in the year ahead. As loved ones search for a special way to make up for missed occasions, AmaWaterways is noting an uptick in multi-generational and multi-family travel bookings. With a choice of up to 23 optional tours included in seven-night river cruises, each member of the family can personalize their vacation while coming together to enjoy quality time back on board AmaWaterways’ spacious, elegantly appointed ships. Of particular note are the 2021 Christmas Market and holiday cruises that are showing early booking levels well above previous years.
• Longer Stays, Shorter Booking Windows – With international travel regulations still evolving, booking windows are expected to shrink, as travelers stand by ready to leap at the opportunity to escape to a new destination as soon as conditions are right. AmaWaterways’ guests are also increasingly adding extensions to their seven-night river cruise – combining back-to-back cruises through Europe and adding pre- and post-cruise land packages. Topping the list are sought-after destinations like Bellagio, the “Pearl of Lake Como” with subtropical climates amidst snow-capped mountains and the legendary Transylvania, Romania, home to the legendary tales of Dracula’s castle and the Palace of Parliament. In response to increased demand, AmaWaterways recently announced limited-time savings for travelers seeking longer trips, including 10 percent savings on back-to-back river cruises and a selection of complimentary pre- or post-cruise land packages for bookings through January 31, 2021.
• Slow Travel – Trend analysts report that more travelers are opting for unhurried and authentic experiences within less crowded destination that offer a true immersion in the region’s culture, history, and gastronomy. With more leisure time in every port of call, river cruises allow travelers to explore at a slower pace and fully immerse themselves in every aspect of the destination – from sampling local cuisine and wines to venturing off the beaten path enjoying the line’s complimentary bicycles. If expertly guided tours are preferred, thoughtfully curated options abound with more than 20 included excursions conducted in small groups of just 10 to 15 people. AmaWaterways’ new itinerary, Impressions of the Seine & Paris, was specifically designed to allow a more leisurely pace to explore the rolling countryside and rich cuisine of Normandy with an optional three-night extension into the spellbinding St. Malo region of Brittany.
• Regenerative Travel – Now more than ever, travelers are actively seeking ways to give back to destinations by contributing to local economies and choosing sustainable ways to explore the world. Working closely with its destination partners, AmaWaterways has developed new hosted events to support local economies, mingle with the community and personally contribute to the recovery of the destinations they visit. With sustainability and innovation as ongoing priorities, AmaWaterways also received the Green Award certification for its entire European fleet in 2020, ensuring an environmentally conscious experience for all.Holistic Wellness – With the pursuit of improved physical and mental health becoming more prevalent, the global pandemic has inspired many to focus on wellness, connect with new activities in the outdoors and improve their health and fitness. More people are pursuing travel that includes ways to continue to live an active, healthy lifestyle. Expanded in 2019, AmaWaterways’ complimentary Wellness Program includes dedicated Wellness Hosts on board its ships, guided hikes and bike tours through charming destinations as well as a variety of small group fitness classes that can be done on the spacious, open-air Sun Deck. Exclusively on board the revolutionary AmaMagna, guests can also enjoy spinning with a view (pictured right) or reserve, at an additional cost, the Concierge Golf Program which transports guests from the ship to five of the most desirable courses while cruising the Danube.
• The Value of Travel Advisors – AmaWaterways has always’ worked hand in hand with the travel advisor community and at a time with complex restrictions and policies, professional travel advisors are more valuable than ever, serving clients with expert knowledge, destination insight and a personal touch to ensure a seamless transition throughout the voyage. To thank its loyal guests and their dedicated travel advisors, AmaWaterways recently launched an all-new Referral Savings Offer that rewards both past guests and their newly referred friends and family with savings while encouraging all guests to book with a travel advisor.

“North American luxury travelers are beginning to plan their next vacations, and based on what we are seeing, river cruises are poised to be among the first to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels,” said Schreiner, president of AmaWaterways. “River cruise vacations take place on smaller ships with fewer guests, cruise within countries and conveniently dock in the center of charming towns and hidden villages. Looking ahead, we anticipate travelers will prioritize meaningful and authentic travel experiences that create true connections with their loved ones and the destination they are visiting. Travelers seeking this type of unique, intimate experience are driving increased demand for AmaWaterways.” “While on board, our knowledgeable wine hosts take our guests on a journey between the Old World and the New World of winemaking. Through wine tastings, exclusive vineyard tours and wine-paired dinners, our guests are completely immersed into the fascinating world of wine,” said Karst. “Some of my absolute favorite travel memories are on board our AmaWaterways specialty wine cruises, and we look forward to sharing these one-of-a-kind epicurean experiences with our guests in 2021.” AmaWaterways was the only U.S.-based river cruise line to sail in Europe during 2020, successfully implementing enhanced protocols and procedures as part of a unique charter program. In 2021/22, the innovative river cruise line will debut five immersive new itineraries and new pre- and post-cruise land packages through culturally rich destinations. Three new ships are also set to sail for the first time in 2021, including the stunning AmaDahlia on the Nile (pictured on the right) and the elegantly appointed sister ships AmaSiena and AmaLucia on the Rhine. MEDIA NOTE: Hi-res versions of the images in this release can be found here. To book an AmaWaterways river cruise for a client, visit the Travel Advisor Portal on AmaWaterways.com or call 1.800.626.0126. Follow AmaWaterways on Facebook, Instagram @AmaWaterways, Twitter @AmaWaterways, and YouTube.

AmaWaterways, the luxury river cruise line known for curating incredible epicurean experiences, today announced the return of several popular wine hosts – as well as a few new surprises – for its 2021 season. With more than 60 Celebration of Wine River Cruises through Europe, AmaWaterways will welcome aboard notable wine experts, certified sommeliers, and vineyard owners as hosts, connecting guests with lectures and tastings to complement the extensive array of included shore excursions. As an additional highlight, two all-new itineraries will showcase the epicurean traditions and historic sights of Normandy and take guests for the first time into the famed vineyards of the country’s Burgundy region. “As demand continues to grow for our wine-themed sailings, we are happy to welcome back some very popular wine hosts and also very excited to introduce engaging new hosts,” said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-founder. “Our intimate Celebration of Wine River Cruises provide an added dimension to the river cruise experience as guests are able to explore both New World and Old-World varietals through the lens of an esteemed wine expert while traveling through Europe’s most renowned wine regions.” Each Celebration of Wine River Cruise features enhanced epicurean experiences and is hosted by a qualified wine expert from North America or a featured destination. The hosts bring hand-selected wines on board to serve during a special meal, tastings or seminars, all included in the price of the cruise. Some wines come from the expert’s own winery and other selections are sourced from wineries located along the river cruise itinerary. 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, while inviting all those on board to taste their way through the French culinary capital of Lyon. With the new Impressions of the Seine & Paris itinerary, guests will discover the most renowned Parisian sites as well as gardens memorialized by famous Impressionist painters. Sailing on board AmaDante from Paris to Le Havre (or reverse) guests are immersed in the best of Northern France, with an itinerary designed to provide more free time to enjoy the quaint towns and meandering bike paths along the Seine River. Beyond idyllic scenery at every turn, guests will discover traditional culinary treasures including the rich chocolate, cheese, apple-based Calvados and local cider from the region. Guests can enjoy an optional fully-escorted four night land package in Brittany visiting the historic port of St.Malo and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mont St. Michel. Guests looking for an enhanced wine experience on these two new itineraries can join the following esteemed wine hosts:

• Dr. Douglas Garman, wine expert from Europa Village Winery, on the July 8 Impressions of the Seine & Paris sailing
• Jason McClain, owner of McClain Winery, on the August 5 Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing
• L. Paul Vezzetti II, co-owner of The Vineyard at Hersey, on the August 12 Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing
• Peter Marks, Master of Wine, on the November 4 Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing
• Jody Elsom, owner and winemaker Elsom Cellars, on the November 4 Impressions of the Seine & Paris
• Kevin Gott, wine expert and educator for Wente Vineyards, on the November 11 Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing

Also for the first time ever, guests can join England’s leading wine producer, Chapel Down Vineyards on November 13, 2021 for a Melodies of the Danube, Celebration of Wine cruise. Chapel Down Vineyards is a supplier to many prestigious venues across the UK and beyond including Harrods and Selfridges as well as being an official wine supplier to No.10 Downing street. Based in the picturesque market town of Tenterden in Kent, Chapel Down sources fruit across the South East of England and produces traditional method sparkling wines, crisp, aromatic white wines, delicate rosés and elegant light red wines. “While on board, our knowledgeable wine hosts take our guests on a journey between the Old World and the New World of winemaking. Through wine tastings, exclusive vineyard tours and wine-paired dinners, our guests are completely immersed into the fascinating world of wine,” said Karst. “Some of my absolute favorite travel memories are on board our AmaWaterways specialty wine cruises, and we look forward to sharing these one-of-a-kind epicurean experiences with our guests in 2021.” Welcoming an average of 150 guests, AmaWaterways’ award-winning ships offer the luxury of more personal space and docking in the heart of grand capitals and fairytale villages allows guests to enjoy moving freely throughout – unencumbered by crowds on or off the ship. While on board, guests will savor exquisite, locally sourced cuisine complemented by distinctive wines and beer with lunch and dinner; and relax as extraordinarily passionate crew ensures every mile is traveled safely creating cherished memories with family and friends. MEDIA NOTE: Hi-res versions of the images in this release can be found here. For full details on all 2021 wine hosts for the upcoming Celebration of Wine River Cruises through Europe visit ourwine cruises page. To book an AmaWaterways river cruise for a client, visit the Travel Advisor Portal on AmaWaterways.com or call 1.800.626.0126. Follow AmaWaterways on Facebook, Instagram @AmaWaterways, Twitter @AmaWaterways, and YouTube.  

Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways is in the giving spirit this holiday season and today launched an all-new Referral Savings Offer,* thanking the company’s loyal guests with an extraordinary way to save on their next river cruise journey. Effective immediately and valid until March 31, 2021, past guests can direct friends and family members to book their first AmaWaterways cruise with a travel advisor using their personal referral code, earning themselves up to $500 in savings on their next river cruise. By using the referral code, the recipient also enjoys $100 savings on their first river cruise. “This holiday season, we looked for a unique way to show our appreciation to our many loyal past guests, while also sharing the beauty of a river cruise vacation with travelers who have yet to experience this intimate way of discovering the world,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “The memories we make while traveling last a lifetime and a luxurious river cruise truly is the perfect holiday gift for yourself, your friends or family members. We believe the time is right to re-ignite the travel spark and hope that this show of appreciation inspires our guests to share the gift of travel with those who they are longing to reconnect with once travel restrictions are lifted and it is safe to do so.” Upon receiving the dedicated referral code by email directly from AmaWaterways, past guests may refer an unlimited number of friends and family, accruing stateroom savings for future river cruise vacations; they can apply up to $300 of their savings toward 7- and 10-night cruises or $500 toward 11- and 14-night cruises. They are also encouraged to share their preferred travel advisor’s contact information with the code, gifting their loved ones the expert guidance of a trusted travel professional who will help them choose the river cruise in Europe, Asia or Africa best suited to their needs while outlining the peace of mind that comes with AmaWaterways’ 18 years of operating experience and flexible change policies. For additional savings including Free Air or $1,000 off per person plus added exclusive experiences, past guests and friends and family traveling with them can use their Referral savings on any of the Loyalty Appreciation Cruises, which include the following 2021 departures:

• Magna on the Danube onboard AmaMagna – Departing August 4
• Riches of the Mekong onboard AmaDara – Departing September 6
• Rhine & Moselle Fairytales onboard AmaLucia – Departing October 5
• Gems of Southeast Europe onboard AmaBella – Departing November 14
• Colors of Provence onboard AmaKristina – Departing December 2

These select sailings travel picturesque rivers through the world’s most enticing countries , while celebrating repeat guests and their companions during itinerary-exclusive events and unique excursions in various ports of call. MEDIA NOTE: Hi-res versions of the images in this release can be found here. *For full terms and conditions, visit AmaWaterways.com/Referral.

In response to the increased demand for longer trips, AmaWaterways today announced two new limited-time offers for guests to enjoy extended vacation time in Europe, including 10 percent savings on back-to-back river cruises* and a selection of complimentary pre- or post-cruise land packages* valued up to $3,000. With the offers, guests can save on thousands of convenient itinerary combinations departing in Europe through 2022. Plus, for a limited time only, select complimentary land packages to sought-after destinations like Lake Como, Italy and Transylvania, Romania can be combined with back-to-back savings and other past guest offers. “Once travel restrictions are lifted, a week-long getaway may not be enough to satisfy the wanderlust that many of our guests are feeling,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “We hope that with these offers, our guests will be able to slow down to further enjoy their journey with AmaWaterways, immersing themselves in the magnificent countries that we sail through and creating memories that they will cherish for a lifetime!” Now through March 31, 2021, guests who reserve select back-to-back river cruises in Europe can save 10 percent on the second sailing, with no limit to the number of cruises that can be added. Combinations include the popular Romantic Danube and Gems of Southeast Europe itineraries that take guests through eight countries in 15 days, visiting Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria. Another crowd-pleasing option for guests is the combination of the Medieval Treasures and Europe’s Rivers & Castles itineraries along the Rhine river. Both combination cruises have been designed with linking embarkation and disembarkation ports to make the extended journey seamless. Docking in the center of towns and villages, river cruising essentially doubles the leisure time in each destination, and these extended cruises can be further enhanced with immersive experiences during AmaWaterways’ pre- and post-cruise land packages. Unique to the industry, AmaWaterways’ Cruise Managers accompany guests during these pre- and post-cruise land stays, providing destination insight and expertise along with personalized service for an intimate group of travelers. Now through January 15, 2021, guests who book select 2021 and 2022 cruises can take advantage of the following three complimentary pre- and post-cruise land packages to explore the enchanting lands of Spain, Italy, and Romania:

• Four-night Basque Country, Bilbao & San Sebastian (Taste of Bordeaux itinerary)
• Four-night Transylvania, Brasov & Bucharest (Gems of Southeast Europe and Grand Danube itineraries)
• Three-night Lake Como (New-for-2021 Rhine Castles and Swiss Alps itinerary)

Valued up to $3,000 per couple, the complimentary pre- and post-cruise land packages can be combined with the Past Guest and Future Cruise Benefit Program, as well as the 10 percent savings on back-to-back cruises.

AmaWaterways today proudly announced that it was named American Automobile Association’s (AAA) “River Cruise Partner of the Year” and “Best in Member Service – Cruise” during the annual AAA Travel Forum. Held virtually this year, the event recognized top preferred supplier partners offering exceptional travel products and services based on multiple category scores submitted by AAA Clubs across the country. Jazzmine Douse, AmaWaterways’ National Account Manager, accepted the award on the company’s behalf on November 4. “In these times where trust and confidence mean so much to the travel industry, we couldn’t be prouder to receive this award,” said Gary Murphy, co-owner and senior vice president, sales of AmaWaterways. “Our commitment to supporting AAA’s travel advisors – and their more than 60 million members – is stronger than ever as we prepare to welcome them and their clients in the Spring of 2021 when our river cruises in Europe, Asia and Africa resume.” Each year, AAA asks stakeholders across the country to rank preferred travel partners on multiple criteria. This year AmaWaterways has once again re-taken the top honor in the river cruise category which they held three out of the last four years. These awards honor the best companies in travel for their commitment to providing AAA travel advisors with outstanding training and marketing support and AAA members with exceptional travel products and customer service. “While 2020 has been a challenging year for travel, we are very pleased to recognize AmaWaterways for their continued support of AAA and the exceptional service they provide our members,” said Paula Twidale, senior, vice president, Travel – AAA National Office. “We all look forward to brighter days creating wonderful river cruise memories together for our members in 2021 and beyond.” With 18 years of innovation and excellence, AmaWaterways continues to be a dedicated partner to the travel advisor community with countless tools and resources designed to help grow their business. Most recently, the company launched a new AmaAcademy course to help advisors grow their sales on the popular Danube River and its second virtual Marketing Suitcase promoting group business. This year alone, AmaWaterways executives and BDMs have engaged its travel partners through a series of more than 2,000 virtual events providing crucial updates on rescheduling cruises, health and safety protocols as well as inspirational content on new ships and itineraries. This summer, the award-winning river cruise line successfully pioneered the return to the world’s rivers and completed a four-month series of charter cruises on the Rhine. With enhanced health and safety protocols in place, AmaWaterways continued to deliver the unmatched river cruise experience for which it’s known. “We know how important safety and security is to the AAA organization, and we are proud to be the only U.S.-based river cruise company with proven sailing experience this year,” added Murphy. “We can’t wait to welcome all of our American guests once travel restrictions are lifted and when we resume our regular river cruises sailing through some of the most sought-after destinations. “ The AAA River Cruise Partner of the Year award comes on the heels of numerous accolades for the luxury river cruise line, including 2020 Partner Company of the Year and River Cruise Line of the Year by American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA).

AmaWaterways today released new photos of the award-winning AmaKristina and AmaDante on their ocean journey from The Netherlands to France. Once repositioned on the Rhône and the Seine rivers respectively, the ships will be ready to welcome guests when river cruising resumes in Spring 2021. The elegantly appointed river cruise ships have been repositioned in response to the heightened demand for itineraries that reflect the rich culture, renowned culinary experiences and remarkable history of the Normandy, Brittany and Burgundy regions of France. This year, AmaKristina completed a four-month series of charter cruises on the Rhine successfully putting in place enhanced health and safety protocols to safeguard guests and crew. With this limited 2020 program, AmaWaterways became the first U.S-based river cruise line to resume sailing in Europe, cementing its place as an industry pioneer. Rhine cruises on board AmaKristina permitted the luxury river cruise line to gain invaluable experience sailing with protocols in 2020 and once travel restrictions are lifted, all ships and crews will be ready to offer guests peace of mind during their unforgettable river cruise experience. “As Godmother of AmaKristina, I am excited to witness her extraordinary ocean journey down the west coast of France and Portugal and across the Mediterranean Sea to reach the mouth of the Rhône river where she will sail in 2021,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “AmaDante will join AmaLyra on the Seine and offer a leisurely itinerary with more beautiful scenic daytime cruising and many opportunities for biking and hiking plus a fascinating pre- or post-cruise optional stay in St. Malo, Brittany with a visit to Mont St. Michel.” AmaDante joins her three sisterships in France while AmaKristina will be the first 443 ft ship with signature twin-balcony staterooms to sail on French rivers. Taking over the popular Colors of Province itinerary, AmaKristina will sailing the Rhône between Lyon and Avignon permitting AmaCello to travel a new itinerary on the Saône into the renowned wine growing area of Burgundy. The following are the new-for-2021 French itineraries and land programs:

• • Impressions of the Seine & Paris a perfect itinerary for those looking to sail at a more leisurely pace between Paris and Le Havre. The journey meanders through the best of Northern France with many overnight visits to idyllic towns, fairytale castles, beautiful gardens and sites memorialized by famous Impressionist painters. -Pre- and post-cruise land options: Two nights in Paris; three nights in St. Malo with a visit to the magical island monastery of Mont St. Michel; one night in Paris.

• Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing between Chalon-sur-Saône and Arles embraces the romance, cuisine and fine arts of France with visits to romantic cities and artistic epicenters, along with experiences such as learning to cook French food in Valence at a culinary school. -Pre- and post-cruise land options: Three nights in Geneva, Switzerland; three in nights in Barcelona, Spain

With proven experience in safeguarding the health of guests and crew, and new itineraries in France and Egypt, AmaWaterways is uniquely positioned to welcome travelers craving immersive and exclusive experiences for 2021 and beyond.

AmaWaterways today proudly announced it received the award for “Best River Cruise Line” in Porthole Cruise Magazine’s 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards. Recognized for unparalleled guest experiences, the award-winning company was distinguished by Porthole Cruise readers as the leader in the river cruise industry. Despite travel restrictions that resulted in the suspension of the regular 2020 season, AmaWaterways has been applauded for its proactive guest communication, flexibility in rescheduling disrupted trips, engagement with guests and travel advisors through interactive, virtual Cruise Nights and “Sip & Sail” events hosted by company executives as well as more than 50 inspirational YouTube videos designed for those planning or dreaming of their next river cruise vacation. “We are incredibly honored to be named Best River Cruise Line by the passionate and knowledgeable readers of Porthole Cruise Magazine,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways. “Our goal is always to curate personal experiences that create cherished memories for our guests that last a lifetime, and our friendly crew are devoted to ensuring that each person who sails with AmaWaterways receives outstanding service, delicious cuisine and expert knowledge of the fascinating countries we sail through. We are thrilled to see the love that we pour into each river cruise being recognized with this award and we can’t wait to welcome our guests back onboard in 2021 to create new memories with us!” While the past year has delivered unexpected challenges for the travel industry, AmaWaterways’ position as a strong, family-owned and debt-free company has allowed it to continue looking ahead and creating innovative and in-demand river cruise experiences for its guests. As the only U.S.-based river cruise line to successfully complete a special series of European sailings with enhanced healthy and safety measures in place during 2020, AmaWaterways is uniquely prepared to deliver safe and enriching experiences once travel restrictions are lifted and the regular river cruise season resumes next year. Elegantly appointed ships, unparalleled service and luxurious amenities will continue to distinguish AmaWaterways in 2021 as the leading river cruise line debuts three new ships. Sister ships AmaLucia and AmaSiena will join the Green Award-Certified European fleet sailing the Rhine, Main and Moselle rivers and will feature connecting staterooms, generous personal space and onboard restaurants serving regionally sourced cuisine. The newly designed AmaDahlia will mark the award-winning line’s return to the Nile when she debuts in September 2021 sailing the 11-night The Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary. Designed to accommodate 68 guests, this intimate ship will boast a wealth of amenities including a heated sun deck swimming pool, outdoor dining venue (rendering picture right) and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant. In its 22nd year, the annual Porthole Cruise Readers’ Choice Awards recognize top cruise lines, ships and destinations in numerous cruise-related categories. Each year, thousands of readers and online fans vote for their favorites in each category, and winners are announced in the November/December issue of the publication. Although this year has looked different for the travel industry, Porthole Cruise readers were able to stay informed on the latest happenings and regulations and made decisions based on a variety of factors, including how companies adapted and dealt with the pandemic and communication efforts throughout the suspended sailing season. “Every year I get a renewed appreciation for the Readers’ Choice Awards as our readers continue to prove themselves discerning travelers with stunningly high standards,” says Bill Panoff, editor-in-chief of Porthole Cruise Magazine. “For AmaWaterways to be voted the Best River Cruise Line in the 2020 Readers’ Choice Awards speaks volumes about the AmaWaterways onboard experience and the ability of the line to exceed our readers’ expectations.”