What’s New with AmaWaterways in 2026

A New Year of River Cruising, Thoughtfully Reimagined

2026 brings exciting new ways to explore the world with AmaWaterways. From the debut of the beautiful new AmaSofia to a new alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, along with four new Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises itineraries and a new four-night Central Vietnam extension on Riches of the Mekong, there is even more to discover on and beyond the river.

AmaWaterways curates immersive river cruises aboard spacious, custom-designed ships where thoughtful details make every day feel effortless. Known for warm, attentive service, regionally inspired cuisine and award-winning wellness amenities, AmaWaterways invites guests to explore Europe, Asia, Africa and South America at a relaxed pace. Each journey blends guided experiences with time to wander on your own, so you can travel deeper, linger longer and truly connect with the places you visit.

AmaWaterways | Smithsonian Journeys: A Deeper Cultural Connection

Spring 2026 marks the debut of an alliance between AmaWaterways and Smithsonian Journeys with select departures designed for travelers who love to learn while they explore. These special departures each feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, each with their own specialized fields of study and impressive insights to offer throughout the cruise. Each departure also features expertly curated experiences, from guided visits to the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris and the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna to in‑depth archaeological insights at Côa Valley in Portugal.

While enriching and thought provoking, AmaWaterways | Smithsonian Journeys departures remain relaxed and welcoming. Guests enjoy insightful experiences by day and the comfort and camaraderie in the evenings, creating journeys that are as inspiring as they are enjoyable.

The Debut of AmaSofia: A New Chapter on the Danube and Rhine

One of the most anticipated highlights of 2026 is the debut of AmaSofia, the newest ship to join the AmaWaterways fleet. Designed with today’s traveler in mind, AmaSofia blends contemporary elegance with the warm inviting atmosphere that defines the AmaWaterways ethos. Spacious staterooms offer uninterrupted views of the river, many featuring AmaWaterways’ signature twin balcony design that offer both an outside balcony and a view-enhancing French balcony. The ship’s thoughtfully designed public spaces, such as the Journeys Restaurant and The Lark Lounge & Bar invite guests to relax and connect.

While the ship will debut on the Rhine, cruising between Amsterdam and Basel in the spring, AmaSofia will transition over to the Danube River in summer, making the ship an ideal choice for first-time river cruisers and seasoned travelers alike, particularly on the 7-night Melodies of the Danube itinerary. Refined comfort pairs seamlessly with an immersive itinerary through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, where historic cities, charming towns and scenic landscapes abound. With expert guided exploration through the Danube’s grand capital cities of Budapest and Vienna; day-long excursions to etiher the iconic Austrian town of Salzburg or the one-of-a-kind castle complex of Český Krumlov in Czech Republic; and an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, Germany, this itinerary is a brilliant showcase for the region’s cultures, food and history.

New Itineraries Across the Globe

AmaWaterways’ 2026 itineraries reflect a growing desire to explore beyond the expected. Alongside beloved classic routes, new journeys introduce fresh perspectives and destinations that feel both exciting and accessible.

In Africa, AmaWaterways expands its popular Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises with four new itineraries that combine luxurious small-ship cruising on the Chobe River with unforgettable land-based experiences throughout the continent. Guests on these 9- to 18-night itineraries enjoy expertly guided wildlife encounters, rich cultural moments and seamless transitions between river and land. Experience the beauty and natural wonders of destinations such as Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar and the stunning Skeleton Coast.

In Southeast Asia, a new four-night post-cruise extension into Central Vietnam, available exclusively on the Riches of the Mekong itinerary, invites travelers to go deeper into the region’s story. Discover the stunning Royal Palace of Phnom Penh and explore the Vietnam War-era Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City. Plus, delight in a visit to Hoi An with its
iconic floating lanterns and Hue, known for its Thein Mu Pagoda and Minh Mang Tomb. These experiences are a natural extension of the Mekong journey that adds even more depth and discovery with additional time and locally guided exploration.

Start Planning Your 2026 River Journey

With new ships, new destinations and new ways to explore, 2026 is an exciting time to experience AmaWaterways. Whether you are dreaming of Europe’s iconic rivers, Africa’s wildlife-rich waterways or the cultural treasures of Southeast Asia, there has never been a better time to start planning.

Contact our travel agency today to learn more about AmaWaterways’ 2026 departures and reserve your journey on the rivers of the world.