AmaWaterways Doubles Down on Popular Active River Cruises

AmaWaterways will introduce new options with biking and active travel specialist, Backroads, in 2019 and 2020, to meet the growing demand within the active vacation segment, the company said on Friday.

The lineup includes more than 120 Danube, Douro, Rhine and Seine departures, with nine full-ship charters and select sailings onboard AmaWaterways’ new ship, AmaMagna.

Marking their fourth year of partnership, the companies are also introducing select “expanded capacity” sailings, which will bring together more than 60 fellow Backroads cycling enthusiasts aboard a single ship.

“Our active river cruises offer a one-of-a-kind experience where we take guests not only along the rivers, but beyond, creating opportunities for a deeper dive into the region’s culture and history with authentic local connections and the freedom to explore at your own pace,” said Backroads Founder and President Tom Hale.

In 2019, Backroads will offer a total of 68 departures, with bike tours along Europe’s Danube, Douro, Rhine and Seine Rivers; and walking tours along the Douro River. Some will be tailored specifically for couples, while others will be geared to families or solo travelers. The following year will see even more offerings, with 73 total departures in 2020 and six full-ship charters.

The “Full Ship Celebration River Cruise,” a full-ship charter of 100-150 biking enthusiasts, will offer two departures on the Danube and one on the Douro in 2019 (including journeys for families with older teens and 20-somethings); and three trips on the Danube and three on the Douro, in 2020.