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AmaWaterways is renowned for its culinary focus, being the only river cruise line inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a prestigious international gastronomic society.

Dining Venues

Most ships in the fleet feature multiple dining options, all of which are included in your cruise fare:

• The Main Restaurant: Offers multi-course, regionally inspired gourmet meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• The Chef’s Table: An intimate specialty restaurant (seating ~28–36 guests) featuring a glass-enclosed kitchen where you can watch the chef prepare a multi-course tasting menu.

Note: While included in the fare, you must make a reservation once onboard.

• The Lark (formerly Main Lounge): For the 2026 season, lounges have been rebranded as The Lark, featuring an all-day Savor at The Lark menu for casual light meals and snacks.
• Al Fresco Terrace (select ships): Open-air dining for lighter meals with a scenic view.
• The AmaMagna Difference: As a double-width ship, the AmaMagna offers additional venues, including Jimmy’s (family-style dining) and Al Fresco Restaurant (with retractable windows).

Beverage Policy

AmaWaterways has a generous free-flowing beverage policy:

• With Meals: Unlimited fine wines, beer, and soft drinks are included with every lunch and dinner. Sparkling wine and fresh juices are included at breakfast.
• Sip & Sail Hour: A daily cocktail hour where spirits, wine, beer, and soft drinks are complimentary.
• All Day: A 24-hour specialty coffee and tea station is available, along with bottled water in your stateroom.

2026 New Culinary Enhancements

Starting in 2026, the line is rolling out several new food programs:

• Italian Chef’s Table Lunches: Adding an Italian-themed lunch service to the Chef’s Table venue on most ships.
• Signature Dinners: Recurring featured menus created by Culinary Director Chef Robert Kellerhals.
• The Bread Program: Multiple varieties of freshly baked breads served daily.
• Wellness Snacks: Snack jars stocked with house-made protein balls, muesli bars, and dried fruits are available throughout the ship.

Dietary Restrictions & Preferences

AmaWaterways is highly accommodating to dietary needs.

• Notification: You should notify your travel advisor or the cruise line 45–90 days before departure.
• Available Options: Every menu includes vegetarian and Hydration Station healthy choices. They easily accommodate gluten-free, low-sodium, and vegan diets.
• Kosher: While they do not have a separate kosher kitchen, they can provide kosher-friendly meals if requested in advance.

Dress Code

The dining atmosphere is Country Club Casual. Daytime: Casual attire (shorts/jeans are fine).

• Dinner: Most guests change into smart-casual (slacks/collared shirts for men; dresses or blouses for women). There are no formal nights, though the Captain’s Farewell Dinner is usually slightly dressier.

AmaWaterways typically includes fuel costs in their base cruise fare; however, like most cruise lines, they maintain a specific policy that allows them to implement a surcharge if fuel prices spike significantly.

Current Surcharge Status

• Active Surcharge: There is currently no active fuel surcharge for standard river cruise bookings.
• The Right to Reinstatement: Per their Passenger Ticket Contract, AmaWaterways reserves the right to reinstate a fuel surcharge for all guests (even those paid in full) if the price of fuel exceeds certain market thresholds.

Standard Industry Terms

While AmaWaterways does not list a specific daily dollar amount in their public marketing, the industry standard for river and ocean cruises (which AmaWaterways generally follows) is:

• Amount: Approximately $9.00 – $12.00 USD per person, per day.
• Trigger: Typically occurs when the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil exceeds $65.00 – $70.00 per barrel, though lines often wait for higher sustained peaks before actually charging guests.

Important Notes for 2026

• AirPlus Program: If you book your airfare through AmaWaterways’ AirPlus program, the fixed rate you are quoted includes current airline fuel surcharges and taxes. This protects you from the recent 2026 volatility in jet fuel prices seen by major carriers.
• Transparency: If a surcharge were to be implemented, it would be added to your booking invoice. If you have already paid in full, the cruise line may require the additional payment before boarding or charge it to your onboard account.

Pro Tip: Because fuel surcharges are rare in the river cruise industry compared to airlines, AmaWaterways usually absorbs minor fluctuations. It typically takes a major, sustained global energy crisis for this fee to be triggered.

AmaWaterways operates on a tiered payment and cancellation schedule. Here are the specific details regarding deposits, final payments, and what happens if you need to cancel.

Payment Schedule

To secure a reservation, AmaWaterways requires a deposit followed by a final balance payment.

• Timing: For most cruises, the deposit is due within 7 days of booking (or 3 days if you are booking within 90 days of departure).
• Airfare: If you book through their AirPlus program, an additional non-refundable air deposit is typically required at the time of booking.

Cancellation Charges

If you cancel your trip, the penalty or amount withheld by the cruise line increases as you get closer to your departure date. The following applies to Cruise & Land packages:

Note: Egypt and Africa cruises carry much higher early-cancellation penalties (up to $2,400) due to the complexity of the land arrangements.

Refund Policy & Credits

• Cash Refunds: Refunds are processed back to the original form of payment. However, once you enter the 89-day window, a significant portion of your payment becomes non-refundable.
• Travel Waiver Plus: AmaWaterways offers an optional add-on called Travel Waiver Plus. If purchased at the time of deposit, it allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before your start date. Instead of a cash refund, you receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) valid for 24 months.
• Name Changes: Changing a name on a reservation is technically considered a cancellation of the original guest and a re-booking of the new guest, which may trigger the fees listed above.

Travel Protection (Insurance)

Because the cancellation penalties are strict, AmaWaterways highly recommends their Travel Protection Plan.

• Trip Interruption/Cancellation for Covered Reasons (illness, injury, etc.).
• Emergency Medical and Evacuation.
• Baggage loss or delay.

AmaWaterways maintains a strict smoking policy to ensure the comfort of all guests. Because river cruise ships are smaller and more intimate than ocean liners, the restrictions are quite firm.

Here is the breakdown of the AmaWaterways Smoking Policy:

Designated Smoking Areas

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas and most outdoor areas. There is only one designated smoking area on the ship:

• The Sun Deck: Smoking is permitted only in a specific, marked section at the aft (rear) of the Sun Deck.
• Signage: This area is clearly identified with signs and provided with wind-proof ashtrays.

Prohibited Areas

You are not allowed to smoke in any of the following locations:

• Staterooms: Smoking is strictly forbidden inside your room.
• Balconies: This is a common point of confusion. Even if you have a private walk-out balcony or a French balcony, smoking is prohibited.
• Lounges & Dining Rooms: All interior public spaces are 100% smoke-free.
• Motorcoaches: Smoking is not permitted on the buses used for shore excursions.

E-Cigarettes and Vaping

The same rules apply to electronic cigarettes, vapes, and heat-not-burn devices.

• These may only be used in the designated smoking area on the Sun Deck.
• They are not permitted in staterooms, on balconies, or in any interior lounge or dining area.

Penalties

Violating the smoking policy typically results in a cleaning fee (often starting around $250 USD / €250) charged to your onboard account to cover the cost of deep-cleaning the upholstery and air filtration in the stateroom. Repeated violations can lead to disembarkation from the ship without a refund.

AmaWaterways offers two distinct layers of protection for the 2026 season. It is important to distinguish between the Travel Protection Plan (insurance for covered reasons) and the Travel Waiver Plus (flexibility for any reason).

Travel Protection Plan (Insurance)

This is a standard travel insurance policy underwritten by partners like Allianz or AIG/Travel Guard (depending on your residency). It provides cash reimbursement for specific, covered reasons.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Reimburses up to 100% of your trip cost if you cancel for a covered reason (e.g., sudden illness, injury, or death of a family member).
• Emergency Medical: Provides up to $100,000 for medical/dental emergencies during the trip.
• Medical Evacuation: Provides up to $250,000–$500,000 for emergency transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility.
• Travel Delay: Covers up to $600–$1,000 (with daily limits) for meals and accommodations if your trip is delayed by a covered event.
• Baggage Protection: Reimburses for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Often covered if the plan is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit.

Travel Waiver Plus Cancel For Any Reason)

This is an optional add-on (typically around $175–$225 per person) that provides ultimate flexibility. It is not insurance, but a contractual agreement with AmaWaterways.

• Any Reason: You can cancel for literally any reason—even just changing your mind.
• Timeline: You must cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled services (cruise or land package) begin.
• The Payout: Unlike the insurance plan, this does not provide a cash refund. Instead, you receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) valid for 24 months from the date of cancellation.
• Restriction: It must be purchased at the time of your initial deposit to be valid.

Unlike many ultra-luxury lines where gratuities are baked into the fare, AmaWaterways leaves tipping to the guest’s discretion. The recommendations vary by region and whether you are sailing on the flagship AmaMagna.

Europe Cruises (7-Night Standard)

For a typical week-long sailing in Europe, the following is recommended per guest:

• Ship’s Crew: €125 (approx. €18/day). This is pooled and divided among the entire staff, including housekeeping, dining, and deck crew.

Note for AmaMagna: Because of the higher staff-to-guest ratio, the recommendation is €145.

• Cruise Manager: €30 (approx. €4/day). Since the Cruise Manager is not part of the ship’s crew, they are tipped separately.
• Land Extensions: If you have a pre- or post-cruise land package, it is customary to tip the Cruise Manager an additional €5 per day.

2. Mekong River (Vietnam & Cambodia)

On the AmaDara, tipping is often handled in USD:

• Ship’s Crew: $10 per person, per day.
• Cruise Manager: $3 per person, per day.

Africa & Egypt

Because these itineraries involve significant land-based staff and specialized guides:

• Egypt: Gratuities are often pre-collected or managed as a kitty to simplify the process. Budget roughly $25–$30 per person, per day to cover ship crew, local guides, and drivers.
• Africa Safaris: Budget approximately $25–$35 per person, per day to account for professional safari rangers and trackers in addition to the lodge staff.

Shore Excursion Guides & Drivers

It is customary to tip the local guides and drivers who lead your daily tours. These are usually paid in cash (Euros or local currency) at the end of each tour:

• Local Guide: €3 (half-day) to €5 (full-day).
• Coach Driver: €2 (half-day) to €3 (full-day).

How to Pay

• Pre-Paid Gratuities: You can choose to pay the recommended crew and Cruise Manager tips before you even leave home. This is often the most convenient way to handle it.
• Onboard Credit Card: On the final night, you can charge the gratuities to your onboard account using a credit card.
• Cash: You can use the envelopes provided in your stateroom on the last night to leave cash (Euros are preferred in Europe) at the reception desk.

Immersive River Itineraries
AmaWaterways focuses on culturally rich destinations with longer port stays and guided excursions designed to connect guests deeply with each region.
Award-Winning Ships and Service
The fleet is purpose-built for comfort, featuring spacious public areas, fewer guests, and a high crew-to-guest ratio for personalized service.
Twin Balcony Staterooms
Many ships feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, offering both indoor and outdoor views without sacrificing space.
Culinary Excellence
Menus are inspired by local cuisine and paired with regional wines, delivering an authentic taste of each destination.
Active and Wellness-Focused Experiences
Guests can choose from gentle walking tours to guided bike rides and wellness classes, with options suitable for different activity levels.
All-Inclusive Value
Shore excursions, fine dining, wine and beer with meals, and onboard enrichment are included, offering strong value for luxury river cruising.

What is included in an AmaWaterways cruise fare?
Cruise fares typically include accommodations, all meals onboard, select beverages with meals, daily shore excursions, onboard entertainment, and enrichment programs.
Are shore excursions included?
Yes, AmaWaterways includes a variety of guided excursions at each port, often with multiple activity-level options.
Does AmaWaterways offer Wi-Fi?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available onboard, though connectivity may vary depending on river location.
Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in the cruise fare and are left to the guest’s discretion.
What is the dress code onboard?
The dress code is casual and comfortable, with smart-casual attire recommended for evenings.
Are drinks included?
Wine, beer, and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Additional beverages may be purchased onboard.
Is AmaWaterways suitable for first-time river cruisers?
Yes, AmaWaterways is highly regarded for its welcoming atmosphere, intuitive itineraries, and well-organized excursions, making it ideal for first-time river cruisers.
Do the ships have elevators?
Most AmaWaterways ships feature elevators, though some areas may still require use of stairs.
Can special diets be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
How large are AmaWaterways ships?
AmaWaterways river ships typically host fewer than 200 guests, creating an intimate and relaxed onboard experience.