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AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Who Wins Your Next Luxury River Cruise?

AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Who Wins Your Next Luxury River Cruise?

A quick guide comparing AmaWaterways and Viking to help you choose the best luxury river cruise for your travel style.

As a travel advisor who specializes in luxury river cruising, it’s no surprise that two of my favorite cruise lines to work with are AmaWaterways and Viking. Both offer exceptional experiences, each with their own unique style, amenities, and strengths. And both align beautifully with my own travel niche—river cruising, which I consider the most immersive and relaxing way to explore Europe (and beyond).

I’ve chosen to become a specialist with both lines because they each offer something different, and I love being able to match my clients with the cruise that best fits their travel dreams. Whether you're sipping wine on the sun deck as you glide past vineyard-covered hills, or exploring charming cobblestone towns at a relaxed pace, river cruising offers something truly special—and AmaWaterways and Viking are two of the best ways to experience it.

But how do you choose between them? Let’s dive in.

 

🚢 Why I Love River Cruising

Before we compare, let me share why river cruising is my preferred way to travel.

  • Intimate Ships: With fewer passengers (typically 150 or less), the atmosphere is more relaxed, personal, and community-oriented.

  • Immersive Destinations: River cruises dock in the heart of the cities and villages, allowing for deeper cultural experiences.

  • Smooth Sailing: Calm rivers mean no seasickness—just a peaceful, scenic glide.

  • Inclusive Luxury: Many river cruises include shore excursions, fine dining, and drinks—making it an incredible value.

With that in mind, it’s easy to see why AmaWaterways and Viking stand out. Let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart.


🛳 AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Key Differences

FeatureAmaWaterwaysViking
Cruise TypesRiver onlyRiver, Ocean, Expedition
AtmosphereWarm, family-owned feelSleek, Scandinavian, polished
Ship DesignSlightly more spacious staterooms, twin balconies on many shipsModern Scandinavian décor, consistent layout across the fleet
DiningMultiple dining venues, including the Chef’s TableMain dining plus regional specialties
ExcursionsWide variety, including hiking, biking, and culinary toursCultural enrichment focus, with local guides
WellnessOnboard wellness hosts, yoga classes, wellness-focused excursionsNo dedicated wellness hosts, but gyms/spas on some ships
InclusivityWine, beer, and soft drinks included with lunch & dinner; some excursions includedWine/beer with meals; excursions included, but optional add-ons available
Target AudienceActive travelers, food & wine loversCulturally curious, mature travelers
Fleet SizeSmaller, boutique feelLargest river fleet in the world

💡 So, Which One Is Right for You?

Choose AmaWaterways if:

  • You value wellness and staying active on vacation.

  • You enjoy fine dining and culinary experiences.

  • You prefer a more intimate and personalized onboard atmosphere.

  • You're looking for more flexibility in excursion options (bike tours, hikes, wine tastings, etc.).

Choose Viking if:

  • You want to explore more than just rivers—they also offer ocean and expedition cruises.

  • You enjoy a refined, consistent luxury experience across all ships.

  • You're fascinated by culture and history, and appreciate expert-led enrichment.

  • You're looking for a larger network of destinations and ships to choose from.


🌐 Explore More Through My Co-Branded Cruise Portals

To make things even easier, I offer direct access to my AmaWaterways and Viking co-branded websites. These curated platforms are perfect for:

  • Browsing itineraries

  • Learning more about each cruise line

  • Viewing current promotions

  • Starting your booking process

👉 https://www.amawaterways.ca/agent/LauraVitaleOnvigo

👉 https://www.vikingrivercruisescanada.com/?agentUrlId=lauravitaleonvigo

👉 https://www.vikingcruisescanada.com/expeditions/?agentUrlId=lauravitaleonvigo

👉 https://www.vikingcruisescanada.com/oceans/?agentUrlId=lauravitaleonvigo

 

Feel free to explore and let me know if you have questions or want a personalized recommendation—I’m here to help match you with the perfect cruise experience.


🌍 The Best of Both Worlds

No matter which line you choose, you’re in excellent hands. Both AmaWaterways and Viking offer incredible value, beautiful itineraries, and top-notch service. My role as a certified specialist with both lines is to help you find the cruise that best fits your travel style, interests, and pace.

Looking to explore the charming villages of the Danube? Dreaming of tulip time in the Netherlands? Want to extend your journey from the rivers to the oceans or even the Arctic? There’s a cruise out there for you—and I’d be honored to help you find it.

 

Ready to plan your river cruise adventure?
Let’s talk about your dream destination, and I’ll help match you with the perfect sailing—whether it’s with AmaWaterways, Viking, or both.

 

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