AmaWaterways Transforms River Cruises with New Luxury Upgrades, Gourmet Dining and Exclusive Guest Experiences

Published on February 26, 2026

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AmaWaterways, known for offering unforgettable river cruise experiences, is set to elevate its offerings across its fleet this season. With a focus on providing an enhanced guest experience, the cruise line is rolling out a variety of updates designed to make every sailing more luxurious and memorable. These changes cover everything from refreshed aesthetics to new culinary offerings, luxury amenities, and more personalized guest experiences.

Fresh Exterior and Interior Designs to Elevate Aesthetics

AmaWaterways has invested in a complete exterior overhaul, with ships now featuring a more elegant and sophisticated color palette. The vessels will now display updated paintwork in warm, inviting tones, offering a visually appealing backdrop as they sail across Europe’s iconic rivers.

Inside, the comfort factor is elevated with the introduction of plush linens, cozy bathrobes, and slippers, ensuring every guest feels pampered throughout their stay. The addition of sustainable bathroom amenities from Marie-Stella-Maris aligns with the brand’s eco-conscious philosophy, reflecting its commitment to both luxury and sustainability.

Furthermore, a new collaboration with Laura Geller cosmetics ensures that guests will have access to high-quality skincare and makeup products, available for purchase in the onboard gift shop. These additions not only enhance the overall guest experience but also ensure that passengers feel both relaxed and indulged.

Gastronomic Delights: New Culinary Offerings Onboard

Culinary experiences are a key highlight of any AmaWaterways journey, and this season, the line is raising the bar with new dining options. Guests can now enjoy Italian-inspired lunch menus in the Chef’s Table restaurants across most ships, bringing a taste of Italy to their river cruise experience.

In addition, Robert Kellerhals, AmaWaterways’ culinary director, will curate special signature dinners designed to showcase the finest in gourmet dining. Whether it’s an expertly prepared meal or a simple yet delightful snack, the food on board is set to impress even the most discerning guests. The onboard lounges, now rebranded as “The Lark,” will also offer a range of light refreshments throughout the day. In addition, AmaWaterways is rolling out a new “Savor at The Lark” all-day menu, providing an assortment of delicious treats for guests to enjoy at their leisure.

A New Bread Concept and Snacks for Guests to Savor

One of the most exciting culinary updates comes in the form of a brand-new bread concept. AmaWaterways will now offer freshly baked varieties of bread daily, ensuring that guests can enjoy delicious bread during every meal. To complement this, there will also be a selection of house-made protein balls, muesli bars, dried fruit, nuts, and freshly baked cookies available in snack jars throughout the day. These wholesome and tasty options are designed to keep guests satisfied between meals and provide a healthy boost of energy during their travels.

Expanding Wine Selections and Complimentary Soft Drinks

AmaWaterways is further enhancing its onboard offerings by expanding its wine selection. Guests can now enjoy a range of over 30 red, white, and rosé wines, all included in their cruise fare. For those seeking something even more special, there will also be premium bottles of wine available for purchase. Additionally, many of the company’s European ships will now offer complimentary soft drinks throughout the day, ensuring guests stay refreshed while enjoying their journey.

Locally Sourced Chocolates to Sweeten the Experience

In a new partnership with regional chocolatiers, AmaWaterways will now deliver locally inspired confections directly to guests’ staterooms. On Danube River sailings, these specially selected chocolates come courtesy of third-generation master chocolatier Johannes Bachhalm, who is highly regarded in the industry and recognized by the Gault & Millau guide.

These indulgent treats will provide guests with a sweet reminder of the places they’ve visited while offering a touch of luxury after a day of exploration.

Refreshed Branded Items and Updated Design Identity

The upgrades are not limited to dining and amenities alone. AmaWaterways is also unveiling a new collection of branded onboard items. These items, reflecting the company’s refreshed visual identity, offer a modern, elegant look that mirrors the new direction of the brand’s overall design. Guests will now have access to a wider range of luxury products that align with the upscale experience that AmaWaterways is known for.

Commitment to Unforgettable Journeys

Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways, shared her excitement about the brand’s ongoing commitment to enhancing guest experiences. AmaWaterways is investing in the guest experience more than ever before. The guests will enjoy an elevated onboard experience, from dining and amenities to specially curated experiences across the fleet.

With these exciting new updates, AmaWaterways continues to solidify its position as a leader in luxury river cruising, offering guests an exceptional, high-quality experience that combines gourmet dining, refined comfort, and unforgettable moments.

Conclusion

This season, AmaWaterways is redefining luxury river cruising with its enhanced fleet offerings. From updated ship designs and expanded culinary choices to locally inspired chocolates and sustainable amenities, the brand’s new upgrades promise to make every journey aboard its ships an unforgettable experience. With a focus on comfort, elegance, and personalized service, AmaWaterways remains committed to delivering the very best to its guests across all of its European itineraries.