AmaWaterways currently has a fleet of 31 river cruise ships, but they’re far from all being the same. From ship size and onboard facilities to the rivers they sail and the experiences they offer, there are some important differences to consider when choosing the right one.
And the fleet isn’t standing still either. AmaWaterways has a significant expansion plan underway, with multiple new ships scheduled to launch over the next few years and more than 50 vessels planned by 2032.
In this guide, I compare every ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, looking at key factors such as itineraries, ship size, age and onboard features to help you decide which is best for you.
Most AmaWaterways ships sail on Europe’s famous rivers, including the Danube and Rhine. But the fleet also stretches far beyond Europe, with ships on Portugal’s Douro, the Mekong in Southeast Asia, the Nile in Egypt, the Magdalena River in Colombia and even the Chobe River in Africa.
Because each ship is purpose-built for the river it sails on, the designs can vary quite a bit. The largest vessels operate on Europe’s major rivers, while ships in destinations such as Egypt, Southeast Asia and Colombia are much smaller, often carrying fewer than 100 guests.
The Newest Ships
AmaWaterways launched AmaLilia on the Nile in 2024, followed by AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia on Colombia’s Magdalena River in 2025.
The expansion continues in 2026 with AmaNubia, another Nile ship designed with Egyptian-inspired details.
Looking forward, the fleet is set to expand significantly with more than 50 ships planned by 2032.
In 2027, AmaRudi will debut on the Danube and AmaMaya will also join the fleet, operating on the Mekong River.
Additional ships planned include AmaFiora on the Rhine in 2027, AmaClara on the Rhône in 2028, and AmaGaia on Portugal’s Douro River in 2028. AmaCleo is also expected to join the Nile fleet in 2028 as the line expands its presence in Egypt.
Need help booking your river cruise?
I’ve partnered with river cruise expert Jenny Cookman who will be happy to help you plan your perfect trip…
List of AmaWaterways Ships
The following table shows every ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, the year that it was built, the number of guests accommodated on board and the rivers on which the ship sails.
| Ship | Entered service | Passengers | River |
|---|---|---|---|
| AmaBella | 2010 | 160 | Danube |
| AmaCello | 2008 | 144 | Rhône, Saone |
| AmaCerto | 2012 | 162 | Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine |
| AmaClara* | 2028 | 156 | Rhône |
| AmaCleo* | 2028 | 76 | Nile |
| AmaDahlia | 2021 | 72 | Nile |
| AmaDante | 2008 | 144 | Seine |
| AmaDara | 2015 | 124 | Mekong |
| AmaDolce | 2009 | 144 | Dordogne, Garonne |
| AmaDouro | 2019 | 102 | Douro |
| AmaFiora* | 2027 | 156 | Rhine |
| AmaGaia* | 2028 | 102 | Douro |
| AmaKristina | 2017 | 156 | Rhône |
| AmaLea | 2018 | 156 | Danube |
| AmaLilia | 2024 | 82 | Nile |
| AmaLucia | 2021 | 156 | Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Moselle, Rhine |
| AmaLyra | 2009 | 144 | Seine |
| AmaMagdalena | 2025 | 60 | Magdalena |
| AmaMagna | 2019 | 196 | Danube |
| AmaMaya* | 2027 | 124 | Mekong |
| AmaMelodia | 2025 | 60 | Magdalena |
| AmaMora | 2019 | 156 | Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Moselle, Rhine |
| AmaNubia* | 2026 | 82 | Nile |
| AmaPrima | 2013 | 162 | Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine |
| AmaReina | 2014 | 162 | Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine |
| AmaRudi* | 2027 | 196 | Danube |
| AmaSerena | 2015 | 162 | Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine |
| AmaSiena | 2021 | 162 | Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine |
| AmaSintra | 2025 | 102 | Douro |
| AmaSofia* | 2026 | 160 | Danube |
| AmaSonata | 2014 | 164 | Danube |
| AmaStella | 2016 | 156 | Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine |
| AmaVenita | 2014 | 162 | Danube, Main, Rhine |
| AmaVerde | 2011 | 160 | Danube |
| AmaVida | 2013 | 102 | Douro |
| AmaViola | 2016 | 156 | Danube |
| Zambezi Queen | 2009 | 28 | Chobe |
*New ships that haven’t entered service yet
Need help booking your river cruise?
I’ve partnered with river cruise expert Jenny Cookman who will be happy to help you plan your perfect trip…
Guide to AmaWaterways’ Ships
Below, I’ve included more information about each vessel, along with some stats and photos to help you decide which is the best ship for your next river cruise.
AmaBella
AmaBella is an elegant AmaWaterways river cruise ship that sails along the Danube from Budapest, Giurgiu and Vilshofen. The ship was recently refurbished in 2021 with the addition of the alfresco ‘Cafe Bistro’, where you can enjoy a light lunch or just relax and admire the views.
AmaBella Facts
- Built: 2010
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 160
- Crew: 49
AmaCello
The oldest ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaCello, was built in 2008. Cruising on the Rhone and Saone, this ship offers a luxurious way to explore France and Switzerland as she sails between Chalon-sur-Saône and Arles.
AmaCello Facts
- Built: 2008
- Length: 360 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 144
- Crew: 41
AmaCerto
Cruising from Amsterdam, Basel, Luxembourg and Nuremberg, AmaCerto offers a variety of river cruises in France, Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands. With warm red and gold decor, this elegant river ship offers luxurious accommodation for every season.
AmaCerto Facts
- Built: 2012
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 49
AmaClara
AmaClara is one of AmaWaterways’ newest river cruise ships, due to enter service in 2028. Sailing on France’s Rhône River, AmaClara is designed to showcase the region’s famous vineyards, historic towns and scenic countryside.
AmaClara Facts
Built: 2028
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 70
AmaCleo
AmaCleo is one of AmaWaterways’ newest river cruise ships, due to enter service in 2028. Sailing on Egypt’s Nile River, AmaCleo will expand the line’s growing presence in the region. Designed with elegant interiors and comfortable staterooms, she will provide a relaxed base for exploring the ancient temples, historic cities and famous landmarks along the Nile.
AmaCleo Facts
Built: 2028
Length: 236 feet
Width: 46 feet
Guests: 76
Crew: 60
AmaDahlia
AmaWaterways’ Nile River ship is AmaDahlia. This brand new ship was launched in 2021 and features a stunning sun deck with a heated pool and bar, as well as an alfresco restaurant. With just 36 staterooms, AmaDahlia offers a luxurious and intimate way to explore Egypt.
AmaDahlia Facts
- Built: 2021
- Length: 236 feet
- Width: 42.6 feet
- Guests: 72
- Crew: 62
AmaDante
One of the older ships in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaDante offers romantic river cruises between Paris and the coast at Le Havre. Most cabins have a French balcony, and there’s also a sauna and whirlpool to relax in your time between walking or cycling excursions.
AmaDante Facts
- Built: 2008
- Length: 360 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 144
- Crew: 45
AmaDara
Built in 2015 to cruise along the Mekong, AmaWaterways’ AmaDara offers a luxurious way to explore Cambodia and Vietnam. With French Colonial decor and locally-carved wooden furniture, this ship provides an elegant atmosphere from which to admire the stunning scenery of Southeast Asia.
AmaDara Facts
- Built: 2015
- Length: 303 feet
- Width: 46 feet
- Guests: 124
- Crew: 52
AmaDolce
For French waterways cruises along the Dordogne and Garonne, AmaDolce is ideal. Cruising on round-trips from Bordeaux, this elegant river cruise ship has spacious staterooms, most of which offer a French Balcony so that you won’t miss a moment of the stunning views.
AmaDolce Facts
- Built: 2009
- Length: 360 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 144
- Crew: 45
AmaDouro
AmaDouro is the newer of the two AmaWaterways ships offering river cruises on the Douro. Launched in 2019, this spectacular vessel embarks on round-trips from Porto, affording guests the opportunity to experience the delights of Portugal and Northern Spain.
AmaDouro Facts
- Built: 2019
- Length: 260 feet
- Width: 37 feet
- Guests: 102
- Crew: 38
AmaFiora
AmaFiora is one of AmaWaterways’ newest river cruise ships, due to enter service in 2027. Sailing on the Rhine and other classic European rivers, AmaFiora is designed to make the most of the scenery. With lots of twin-balcony cabins and relaxed public spaces, she’s a good choice if you want a comfortable base for exploring Europe by river without anything feeling over the top.
AmaFiora Facts
- Built: 2027
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 70
AmaGaia
AmaGaia is one of AmaWaterways’ newest river cruise ships, due to enter service in 2028. Sailing on Portugal’s Douro River, AmaGaia is designed to navigate the winding valley while giving guests great views of the terraced vineyards and historic towns along the route.
AmaGaia Facts
Built: 2028
Length: 262 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 102
Crew: 38
AmaKristina
What better way to admire the ever-changing colours of Provence than a river cruise onboard the stunning AmaKristina? Sailing on the Rhone between Lyon and Avignon, this award-winning river cruise ship oozes French style.
AmaKristina Facts
- Built: 2017
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
AmaLea
AmaWaterway’s Danube river ship, AmaLea, offers cruises from Budapest, Nuremberg and Vilshofen. In just seven nights, you can experience as many as five different countries on this elegant boat that will take you on a journey of discovery through Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia.
AmaLea Facts
- Built: 2018
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
AmaLilia
AmaLilia is a new ship for AmaWaterways, sailing on the Nile. She’s one of the more luxurious and upscale ships in the fleet, with just 41 staterooms, including 13 suites. Her 7-night cruises sail round-trip from Luxor.
AmaLilia Facts
- Built: 2024
- Length: 236 feet
- Width: 43 feet
- Guests: 82
- Crew: 62
AmaLucia
Making her debut in 2021, AmaLucia is one of the newest ships in the AmaWaterways fleet. She’s also one of the largest, with 78 staterooms, many of which feature twin balconies. Up on the Sun Deck, the pool features a refreshing swim-up bar.
AmaLucia Facts
- Built: 2021
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
AmaLyra
One of the older ships in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaLyra offers romantic week-long cruises along the Seine from Paris. Stylish and comfortable, this ship features an inviting whirlpool on the Sun Deck – the perfect place from which to admire the ever-changing French scenery.
AmaLyra Facts
- Built: 2009
- Length: 360 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 144
- Crew: 45
AmaMagdalena
AmaMagdalena is one of the newest ships in the AmaWaterways fleet, offering river cruises along the beautiful Magdalena River in Colombia. Guests can expect an intimate style of cruising, with just 60 passengers onboard, and some stunning spaces where you can relax.
AmaMagdalena Facts
- Built: 2025
- Length: 223 feet
- Width: 43 feet
- Guests: 60
- Crew: 30
AmaMagna
By far the largest ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaMagna is double the width of most other ships on the Danube. The extra space affords room for four restaurants, a wellness studio and spacious suites of up to 710 square feet.
AmaMagna Facts
- Built: 2019
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 72 feet
- Guests: 196
- Crew: 70
AmaMaya
Sailing on the Mekong River, AmaMaya is a newbuild ship joining the AmaWaterways fleet in 2027. Like AmaDara, she’s been designed specifically for this region, with a smaller, more intimate layout that suits the Mekong’s waterways and focuses on a relaxed, comfortable onboard experience while exploring Vietnam and Cambodia.
AmaMaya Facts
- Built: 2027
- Length: 303 feet
- Width: 46 feet
- Guests: 124
- Crew: 52
AmaMelodia
The AmaMelodia is a sister ship to the AmaMagdalena and will also offer cruises on the stunning Magdalena River in Colombia. Staterooms are spacious, and all feature an outside balcony, so you can truly soak up the picturesque surroundings as you sail.
AmaMelodia Facts
- Built: 2025
- Length: 223 feet
- Width: 43 feet
- Guests: 60
- Crew: 30
AmaMora
Launched in 2019, AmaMora is a sister ship to the award-winning AmaKristina and AmaLea. Spacious and luxurious, this ship offers an all-day tapas menu and a tempting afternoon tea. Choose a bed facing the river for the best views when you awake each morning.
AmaMora Facts
- Built: 2019
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
AmaNubia
AmaNubia is one of AmaWaterways’ newest river cruise ships, due to enter service in 2026. Sailing on Egypt’s Nile River, AmaNubia is designed with Egyptian-inspired details that reflect the history and culture of the region.
AmaNubia Facts
Built: 2026
Length: 236 feet
Width: 46 feet
Guests: 82
Crew: 60
AmaPrima
Offering cruises from Basel, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Nuremberg, AmaPrima offers an authentic European river cruise experience. Offering award-winning regionally-inspired menus in the restaurant and plenty of places to relax, this AmaWaterways ship provides a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes of Northern Europe.
AmaPrima Facts
- Built: 2013
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaReina
AmaReina is currently part of the APT fleet as one of its Concerto-class river ships in partnership with AmaWaterways. This luxurious ship offers cruises through Europe from Budapest and Amsterdam.
AmaReina Facts
- Built: 2014
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaRudi
Sailing on the Danube and other popular European rivers from 2027, AmaRudi is a modern, easy-going ship that’s all about enjoying the scenery as you go. Named after AmaWaterways’ co-founder Rudi Schreiner, she has lots of light-filled spaces and plenty of twin-balcony cabins, making it easy to sit back and watch Europe drift by from the comfort of the ship.
AmaRudi Facts
- Built: 2027
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 72 feet
- Guests: 196
- Crew: 70
AmaSerena
Cruising from Amsterdam and Basel, AmaSerena is the perfect ship from which to explore the Rhine and Swiss Alps or to experience the windmills and tulips of Holland. This regal ship features a plethora of twin-balcony staterooms so that you can make the most of the spectacular river views.
AmaSerena Facts
- Built: 2015
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaSiena
New for 2021, AmaWaterways’ AmaSiena is a stunningly luxurious sister ship to the award-winning AmaLea and AmaKristina. Offering river cruises from Amsterdam and Basel, this ship features an airy Sun Deck and a pool with a swim-up bar.
AmaSiena Facts
- Built: 2021
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaSintra
New for 2025, AmaSintra will be a sister ship to the AmaDouro and AmaVida, offering picturesque cruises along the Douro. Expect a luxurious design, with plenty of relaxing spaces to unwind as you sip on local wines and enjoy the fine valley views.
AmaSintra Facts
- Built: 2025
- Length: 260 feet
- Width: 37 feet
- Guests: 102
- Crew: 38
AmaSofia
AmaSofia will join the AmaWaterways fleet in spring 2026, sailing itineraries on the Rhine and Danube. She’ll be a modern river ship with balcony cabins throughout, plus a sun-deck pool, fitness room and bikes for guests to use in port. On board, you can expect multiple dining venues, including The Chef’s Table, along with relaxed extras like all-day tapas, afternoon tea and a 24-hour coffee station.
AmaSofia Facts
- Built: 2026
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaSonata
Cruising on the Danube from Budapest, Nuremberg and Vilshofen, AmaSonata offers a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. As well as the Main Dining Room, be sure to try the Chef’s Table – a speciality restaurant with 5-star cuisine.
AmaSonata Facts
- Built: 2014
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaStella
The award-winning AmaStella is one of the most stunning ships in the AmaWaterways fleet. On board, you can relax by the fireplace in the library and admire the sleek contemporary decor, such as the glass elevator in the centre of the ship.
AmaStella Facts
- Built: 2016
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
AmaVenita
AmaVenita is currently part of the APT river cruise fleet in partnership with AmaWaterways. This elegant ship is akin to a small ocean yacht with inviting public spaces adorned with the most luxurious decor.
AmaVenita Facts
- Built: 2015
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 162
- Crew: 51
AmaVerde
AmaVerde was completely redesigned in 2021 and now showcases a vibrant, modern design. The twin balcony staterooms are spacious and welcoming, while on the top deck, you can enjoy a putting green, heated swimming pool and walking track.
AmaVerde Facts
- Built: 2011
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 160
- Crew: 51
AmaVida
AmaVida offers exciting river cruises on the Douro through Spain and Portugal. On board, guests can enjoy the finest locally-sourced cuisine that’s expertly paired with local wines and the region’s signature drink – Port.
AmaVida Facts
- Built: 2013
- Length: 260 feet
- Width: 37 feet
- Guests: 102
- Crew: 38
AmaViola
Embarking on seven-night Danube cruises from Budapest and Vilshofen, AmaViola is no ordinary river cruise ship with her vibrant and modern decor. On board, you can enjoy the finest cuisine worthy of the renowned gastronomic society, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.
AmaViola Facts
- Built: 2016
- Length: 443 feet
- Width: 38 feet
- Guests: 156
- Crew: 51
Zambezi Queen
The small and intimate Zambezi Queen was specially designed for viewing the wildlife along the banks of Africa’s legendary Chobe River. Accommodating just 28 guests plus 22 crew members, this eco-friendly ship has an open-air Sun Deck complete with a plunge pool.
Zambezi Queen Facts
- Built: 2009
- Length: 150 feet
- Width: 25.6 feet
- Guests: 28
- Crew: 22
Final Thoughts
AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 with the goal of creating a river cruise company with elegantly designed ships and outstanding locally sourced food and wine.
Today, the line offers cruises across Europe, Asia, Africa and South America, with a fleet that continues to evolve. Several new ships are already scheduled to launch over the next few years, and AmaWaterways plans to expand to more than 50 vessels by 2032.
The newer ships feature some of the most modern designs and amenities in river cruising, but whichever vessel you choose, you can expect excellent service, great food and a relaxed way to explore the world’s rivers.
Need help booking your river cruise?
I’ve partnered with river cruise expert Jenny Cookman who will be happy to help you plan your perfect trip…
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