Why small ship cruising with AmaWaterways feels like true luxury

Fewer guests, more luxury: AmaWaterways redefines river cruising with spacious ships, small-group shore excursions and personalised service that puts privacy, freedom and connection at the heart of every journey

On most cruise ships, luxury means scale: multiple restaurants, big-name shows, maybe even a rooftop basketball court. But at AmaWaterways, the equation is reversed. With this boutique river line, the true indulgence lies in subtraction – fewer guests, more space and a deeper connection with the world as it floats by.

A more personal way to cruise

Across the European AmaWaterways fleet, vessels host a maximum of 156 guests. Compare that to the thousands aboard mega-liners, or even the hundreds on other river cruises, and the difference is palpable.

This smaller capacity creates a more serene onboard experience – think open sun decks with plenty of room, intimate lounges and attentive crew who remember your name and favourite aperitif.

In destinations like South America, Africa and Asia, the numbers are even smaller. Which means you’re not just cruising, you’re unwinding, unhurried and unseen by crowds.

The luxury of choice

On shore, the intimacy continues. Included excursions are offered in small groups, tailored to different interests and energy levels. That might mean a leisurely guided walk through a baroque village, a bike ride along the Danube, or a hiking adventure to a vineyard lookout.

These curated, crowd-free experiences allow guests to connect more meaningfully with each destination, and with fellow travellers as well.

AmaWaterways’ ‘Grand Seine & Bordeaux’ itinerary, for example, winds through some of France’s most flavourful wine regions, with personal tastings, market tours and châteaux visits far from the tourist crush. In Egypt, the ‘Secrets of Egypt & the Nile’ sailing brings just 68 guests aboard a chic river ship designed for both comfort and cultural immersion.

What luxury looks like now

The future of luxury travel isn’t louder – it’s quieter. Not in-your-face opulence, but the feeling of space and freedom. It’s the ability to linger longer over breakfast, to explore a town without a timetable, to chat with a sommelier who’s not rushing to the next table.

AmaWaterways has made this philosophy central to every part of its offering, from the crew-to-guest ratio to its award-winning design innovations. It’s luxury without excess. Or rather, luxury defined by what’s thoughtfully left out.

Where will AmaWaterways take you next?

Whether it’s the ‘Enchanting Rhine’, the ‘Wonders of Colombia’, or the mystical temples lining the Nile, AmaWaterways offers journeys that favour privacy over pomp, and connection over crowds. For discerning travellers who prefer substance over spectacle, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

Start planning your voyage with AmaWaterways today.