AmaWaterways is planning to expand with new ships, itineraries and destinations in what the company said was shaping up to be a strong year.

“River cruising is increasingly appealing to a wider audience, from younger travelers seeking new experiences to multi-generational families. 2025 sales are already tracking 31 percent higher than 2024 results at the same time last year,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways.

“We are meeting this demand with expanded offerings, including increased capacity on European rivers, two ships debuting on Colombia’s Magdalena River, and a new ship on the popular Douro River in Portugal. These developments are part of a broader commitment to innovation – it’s not just about growing our fleet; it’s about expanding the very concept of what a river cruise can be.”

For 2025, the line is introducing a range of new offerings, including:

• Best of Danube: The new itinerary sails roundtrip from Budapest, taking guests through cities like Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. With 15 departures in 2025 and 14 in 2026, this itinerary includes early-season sailings departing February 23 and March 2, 2025, aboard the AmaMagna. Later departures will feature AmaBella, AmaReina, AmaViola and AmaLea.
• Grand River Cruises: These 14-night voyages combine two popular seven-night itineraries, such as the Grand Seine and Rhône or Grand Danube, for an immersive experience. Guests can explore diverse landscapes, cities and villages across multiple countries.
• AmaSintra in Portugal: This new ship will join the fleet on the Douro River in April, offering enhanced opportunities to explore the vineyards and culture of Portugal on the seven-night Enticing Douro itinerary.
• AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia in Colombia: Two ships will debut on Colombia’s waterways in March and June 2025. The 64-guest AmaMelodia and 60-guest AmaMagdalena will offer two seven-night itineraries: Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia. Highlights include excursions such as a Carnval celebration in Barranquilla, live jazz performances, authentic paola rides and historical walking tours.

“We are so appreciative of the love and support we continue to receive from our valued guests and travel partners,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president.

“Our current success and positive outlook for 2025 wouldn’t be possible without the trust and support of our travel advisor partners. 2025 is shaping up to be our most exciting year yet. We are thrilled to offer our guests the opportunity to experience Colombia like never before, with exclusive access to remote destinations often inaccessible by other means of travel. We are proud to open the doors to hidden gems, allowing our guests to interact with Indigenous communities and explore untouched natural wonders.”