AmaWaterways Announces Two New River Ships for 2026

AmaKaia joins AmaDara on the Mekong and AmaSofia will sail Europe’s Rhine and Danube

 

Calabasas, CA, May 2024 – As travelers seek authentic experiences in storybook destinations, AmaWaterways continues to meet their expectations with new river ships and itineraries tailored to their needs. The line is proud to announce two new river ships launching in 2026: AmaKaia joins AmaDara on the Mekong River and AmaSofia will sail Europe’s Rhine and Danube Rivers.

 

With an expected launch date of May 24, 2026, AmaSofia will be the award-winning cruise line’s 24th ship to sail on Europe’s most popular rivers. AmaSofia’s inaugural 14-night itinerary, aptly named Magnificent Europe, follows the route of emperors, kings and queens as it journeys between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guests will sail on three rivers through four countries on an immersive exploration of local culture, history, foods and traditions. Highlights include guided bike rides through scenic vineyards and small towns, visits to a pretzel bakery, tours of numerous castles and palaces, culinary tours, and deep dives into many of the region’s most historic cities. The custom-designed luxury AmaSofia will have 31 departures in 2026, featuring multiple itineraries on the Danube, such as Melodies of the Danube, Romantic Danube, and the very popular Christmas Markets on the Danube.

 

AmaKaia is expected to embark on its first seven-night itinerary on August 3, 2026. Guests will explore the ancient cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia while enjoying regional delicacies, a wide range of daily included excursions, local onboard entertainment, and the luxury amenities AmaWaterways is known for. Exploration opportunities include traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) rides, visits to local workshops and monasteries, a Buddhist Blessing Ceremony, and learning about the region’s histories from those who taught it and, in many cases, lived it. The two seven-night itineraries, Charms of the Mekong and Riches of the Mekong both offer guests a unique blend of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. AmaKaia will be doing 22 sailings in 2026 and upwards of 38 in 2027. Land extensions are available in several cities including Siem Reap, home of the world’s largest religious structure, Angkor Wat.

 

Cruising with AmaWaterways includes fine dining in multiple venues, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks, a daily variety of small group excursions, including hiking, biking and special interest tours, high-quality Wi-Fi, a Wellness Program with a variety of host-led fitness classes, airport transfers, and much more.

 

For more information or to reserve an AmaWaterways river cruise and land package, contact your preferred Travel Advisor, call 1.800.626.0126 or visit AmaWaterways.com.

 

About AmaWaterways

 

Family-owned and operated for 22 years, AmaWaterways offers unparalleled river cruise experiences with 29 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s major rivers; Southeast Asia’s Mekong River; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and Colombia’s Magdalena River (2025). Co-founded by pioneering river cruise executives Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, the company is renowned for its warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; wellness activities (including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options); and award-winning, locally sourced cuisine paired with complimentary fine wine. Modern, spacious and tastefully decorated, most AmaWaterways 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, Sun Deck walking track and heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation, highlighted by the launch of the revolutionary AmaMagna. 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.