Where passion meets the river: AmaWaterways’ specialty cruises

Discover AmaWaterways’ Specialty Cruises, from festive Holiday sailings to Smithsonian Journeys, Beer, Wellness and Golf cruises – purpose-built itineraries offering enriching themed travel along Europe’s most iconic rivers

There’s river cruising – then there’s river cruising with purpose. For more than two decades, AmaWaterways has set the benchmark for luxury on the world’s most storied waterways. Think spacious staterooms, regionally inspired cuisine, curated excursions and the kind of intuitive service that makes every journey feel personal. But for travellers who want even more – a theme, a deeper layer of learning, a celebration, a way to weave their passions into the places they’re exploring – AmaWaterways’ Specialty Cruises in Europe elevate the experience entirely.

These purpose-built itineraries go beyond the traditional river cruise, transforming each sailing into a moving festival of culture, craft and connection. Whether it’s spending Christmas in Europe’s fairy-lit heart, playing golf at world-famous courses, diving into wellness, sailing in the company of Smithsonian Journeys Experts or following the hops trail through Europe, these AmaWaterways voyages celebrate the idea that travel becomes even more meaningful when it aligns with who you are.

Holiday Cruises: Europe at its most magical

There’s nothing quite like Europe during the festive season. AmaWaterways’ Holiday Cruises invite guests to the heart of centuries-old traditions: candlelit cathedrals, mulled wine, charming market stalls and snow-dusted streets. On these sailings, the river becomes a thread that stitches together some of the most atmospheric destinations in Europe, each village and capital dressed in its winter best.

Guests wander through legendary Christmas markets, taste regional holiday specialties, meet local artisans and learn the stories behind rituals that have been passed down through generations. On board, the celebrations continue with festive meals, tree-decorating and a warm, shared spirit that captures what this season is all about. For many guests, it’s a bucket-list trip that becomes a cherished annual tradition.

Smithsonian Journeys: Travel with experts who bring each destination to life

For travellers who crave depth and knowledge, AmaWaterways’ partnership with Smithsonian Journeys delivers some of the most intellectually rewarding river cruises in the world. Each sailing is hosted by a Smithsonian Journeys Expert – historians, geologists, anthropologists, authors and academics who illuminate the places you’re exploring.

Think of it as river cruising elevated into a cultural masterclass. Between castle visits and wine tastings, you might join lectures on medieval engineering, European politics, archaeology or art history. Conversations spill naturally into mealtimes, shore excursions and evenings on the sun deck. These cruises attract curious travellers who want to understand the world, not just see it. And they leave with a deeper sense of context and connection.

Beer Cruises – Europe’s brewing heritage, one river at a time

Craft beer lovers find their paradise aboard AmaWaterways’ Beer Cruises, itineraries that celebrate Europe’s legendary brewing traditions. Hosted by brewmasters, these voyages explore the hops trail through countries like Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

Guests tour historic breweries, learn time-honoured techniques, enjoy curated tastings and sip seasonal specialties not found outside the region. On board, the learning (and tasting) continues with brewing sessions, expert-led discussions and themed dinners. It’s travel through the lens of a beloved craft – relaxed, social and rich in flavour.

Wellness Cruises – A river journey that revitalises body and mind

On AmaWaterways’ Wellness Cruises, movement becomes a vital part of the journey. Daily classes – from morning stretches and champagne yoga to core strengthening and active walks – are led by dedicated Wellness Hosts who bring both expertise and warmth.

But wellness extends to every part of the experience: nourishing meals, cycling excursions, fresh air on open decks and the gentle pace of river life. These itineraries attract travellers who see their holiday not as a break from wellbeing, but a chance to deepen it.

Golf Cruises – Championship courses meet riverfront luxury

For golfers, few experiences compare to AmaWaterways’ Golf Cruises, which pair the ease of river cruising with guaranteed play at some of Europe’s top courses. Picture mornings spent on championship fairways in Germany, Austria, France or the Netherlands, and afternoons drifting past storybook landscapes back aboard your floating boutique hotel.

These sailings include curated tee times, flawless transfers, club storage and the expertise of a dedicated Golf Concierge. It’s a seamless way to play some of the world’s most desirable courses without the usual logistics, all while enjoying AmaWaterways’ signature hospitality.