RIVER CRUISE REVIEW ONBOARD AMAKRISTINA RIVER SHIP
Two of our river cruise specialists recently enjoyed two nights with AmaWaterways onboard the AmaKristina from Amsterdam. Read their exclusive AmaKristina river cruise review
AMAWATERWAYS AMAKRISTINA RIVER CRUISE REVIEW
What would stop you trying a river cruise? The price? The fact you have to fly? The fact that the clientele will be more mature, or is it because there isn’t much to do on board? Are river cruises worth it? Let's find out onboard AmaWaterways river cruise ship, AmaKristina.
Learn more about AmaWaterways, their ships, itineraries and more on our AmaWaterways microsite.
Well, what I would say first of all is that river cruising is all about attention to details. Making each guest feel special whilst enjoying a comfortable, homely atmosphere.
AmaKristina River Cruise Ship
AmaKristina is a luxury river cruise ship, part of the Amawaterways river cruise fleet, with AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Kristin Karst serving as AmaKristina’s Godmother. The AmaKrisitna luxury river ship has a sleek elegance from the exterior and it was docked perfectly close to the centre of Amsterdam. We flew in from Luton and were met at the airport and all of the ground arrangements were very slick, and we were soon checking in onboard the river ship.
A light lunch was available which was perfect as arrivals were throughout the day.
Danube River Cruise Highlights Video
The AmaKristina river ship is modern and contemporary and the public areas are full of flowers and exquisite furnishings and unlike an ocean cruise, numbers are very small and check in is a very painless procedure. It’s only a matter of minutes before you can relax and feel the calming tranquillity enveloping you.
All of the staff, both onboard and from the UK office, were professional but very friendly and down to earth and all very proud of the product they have. It was clear that it’s very much a team effort and on the last night, all of the crew were applauded and thanked which seemed very heartfelt throughout.
Learn more about the AmaKristina river cruise ship
Learn more about AmaWaterways, their ships, itineraries and more on our AmaWaterways microsite.
Cabins onboard AmaKristina
Cabins on board the river ship were elegant and although space will always be a restriction, they were well designed and well appointed with every detail considered. The bathrooms were well equipped, and there was plenty of hanging space plus continually replenished water and a TV which doubles as a computer. All very useful, when Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout – no limitations at all. Both a French and outside balcony allow you to enjoy the scenery, and in the marble bathroom there is a multi-jet shower, lovely bath and body products, robes and hair dryers. The suites on AmaKristina feature added extras, including a larger sitting area, a bigger bathroom complete with a bath and separate shower.
Cuisine on AmaKristina
The cuisine on board the ship was absolutely beautiful whether it was the breakfast buffet or lunch or the very elegant waiter-service evening meal – either in the main dining room or the Chef’s Table. Wines, beers and soft drinks are served with meals plus there is a sip and sail hour prior to dinner. It isn’t all-inclusive and that is done deliberately to allow guests to explore the local port and not be tied completely to the ship. Drinks can be purchased on board very reasonably without any hidden costs.
Cuisine Photo Gallery
Excursions on AmaKristina
Excursions are offered daily and unlike many products, there are several choices for each day varying in the amount of energy required.
Cycle tours are very popular and you are not just given a map and let loose to explore. You can actually go as a group with a guide and explore the highlights of the local area. All of these excursions are complimentary.
In addition, if you have something special which you would like to do, if it is at all possible, the Cruise Manager will try and arrange it for you as a tailor-made trip. Having much fewer guests than an ocean cruise allows for a much higher level of flexibility and a very personal touch.
Onboard the AmaKristina you will also find a massage and hair salon, a gift shop, coffee station, heated swimming pool with a swim-up bar, fitness center, sun-deck, a walking track and a fleet of onboard bikes that are free to use.
AMAKRISTINA RIVER CRUISE ITINERARIES
Colours of Provence 7-night river cruise
Visit Lyon, Vienne, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles
From the allure of enchanting cities to the delights of culinary exploration and the vibrancy of artistic hubs, this journey promises to awaken every sense. Embark on your adventure in Lyon, hailed as the gastronomic heart of France, where you'll indulge in the exquisite flavors of local wines like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône amidst picturesque vineyards. Delve deeper into the culinary world as you hunt for the coveted "Black Diamond" truffles and discover the art of pairing chocolate with wine.
Next stop: Avignon, a captivating commune brimming with a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, captivating art galleries, and timeless charm. Immerse yourself in its rich history and architectural wonders, feeling as if you've stepped back in time.
Finally, in Arles, follow in the footsteps of renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Picasso, tracing their legacies through the winding streets and vibrant landscapes. Let your imagination run wild as you explore this cultural haven, where every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered.
Or enjoy the cruise with a land add-on. Spend 3 nights in Paris, travel by high-speed TGV train to Lyon, and embark upon the 7-night cruise through Provence, ending with 3 nights in Barcelona. Ask for details.
WHAT’S INCLUDED ON AN AMAWATERWAYS RIVER CRUISE?
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
- Luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
- Computer for internet access
- Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
- Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
- Bottled water replenished daily
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
- Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Internet and Wi-Fi access
- Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
- Fitness room
- Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
- Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
- The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
- Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
- La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
- Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
- Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
- Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
- Bike tours and hikes
- Local Flavours tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
RIVER CRUISE REVIEW SUMMARY
For me, the main thing which sells this holiday is that absolutely everything is done for each person to make the holiday as perfect as possible. It all seems very seamless, but that is just down to the immense effort by each member of staff.
So to conclude and to revisit the initial objections : –
- The price – It isn’t a bargain holiday and you won’t see ridiculous offers just to sell the cabins however, it isn’t about being cheap – it’s about value for money.
- Flying – You can’t change the geography of the destination but you can fly from regional airports or the Eurostar and as it’s smart/casual on board – your luggage allowance should be sufficient without too much of a challenge.
- Life onboard – During the day there are always options to explore new places but all with a pretty relaxing pace of life. You are free to wander at your leisure although I would say you need a certain level of fitness to be able to enjoy this holiday to its full potential.
- Age range – There isn’t really a most suitable age – just people that appreciate the destination, the quality and the hassle free calm environment.
Learn more about AmaWaterways, their ships, itineraries and more on our AmaWaterways microsite.
If you would like to find out more about AmaWaterways or book a cruise,
call our friendly and knowledgeable cruise specialists today or contact us here.
