Choosing Between Two Standout Lines
If you’ve been researching European river cruises, chances are you’ve seen Avalon Waterways and AmaWaterways near the top of every list.
They both sail Europe’s most beautiful rivers. They both have loyal fans. But the two lines feel very different once you step onboard.
After personally touring or sailing 17 river ships—including several from both Avalon and AmaWaterways—here’s how we help clients decide which one fits them best.
Category One: Pricing & Booking Policies
Avalon usually starts at a slightly lower base fare, while AmaWaterways often prices a bit higher but leans more luxurious in style and service.
Sales & Promotions – Both lines run seasonal offers: reduced cruise fares, free upgrades, prepaid gratuities, or bundled airfare. In our experience, early-booking promotions tend to provide the best overall value, especially when paired with AmaWaterways’ air packages.
Inclusions – Neither line is fully all-inclusive. Both include wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and a complimentary pre-dinner happy hour. Gratuities are typically additional unless covered by a special offer.
Deposits & Final Payment –
Avalon: $500 per cabin, non-refundable; final payment 90 days prior to sailing.
AmaWaterways: $800 per cabin, non-refundable; final payment 90 days prior to sailing.
Solo Travelers – Avalon often sets aside several cabins per sailing with no single supplement. AmaWaterways counters with reduced 25–50 percent supplements, and select ships include dedicated solo staterooms around 140 sq ft.
Families – Avalon welcomes guests ages 8 and up; AmaWaterways allows children 4 and older. For multi-generational trips, Ama’s flexibility earns an edge.
Verdict:
If you’re budget-conscious, Avalon often wins on price. If you value a little more polish or need family-friendly or solo options, AmaWaterways may fit better.
Category Two: Cabins & Onboard Design
Avalon’s ships feature a modern, understated look with clean lines and neutral tones. AmaWaterways leans elegant and European, with richer colors and softer design touches.
Cabin Size: Avalon’s Panorama Suites average 200 sq ft; AmaWaterways ranges 170–235 sq ft. The AmaMagna stands out as a double-width vessel with suites starting near 250 sq ft.
Bed Orientation: Avalon’s signature forward-facing beds are perfect for watching the world glide by. AmaWaterways keeps a more traditional layout but adds twin balcony options (French and full).
Accessibility & Connectivity: Avalon’s elevators reach the lower cabin deck; AmaWaterways includes connecting cabins and occasional triples—ideal for families.
Amenities: Both feature complimentary Wi-Fi, onboard bicycles, fitness rooms, and wellness hosts. AmaWaterways adds massage rooms and, on some ships, a hair salon.
Verdict:
Avalon for its open-view cabin innovation; AmaWaterways for spa-style extras and variety across the fleet.
Category Three: Excursions & Daily Experiences
Both lines offer several included excursions in every port—typically an active, gentle, and cultural option.
Avalon’s Active & Discovery itineraries introduce creative experiences like local art classes or culinary walks, while AmaWaterways tends to emphasize smaller-group immersion (vineyard tastings, guided bike tours, or live performances).
Verdict:
A near tie. Avalon wins for variety and creativity; AmaWaterways for execution and intimacy.
Category Four: Dining & Culinary Experience
Dining is where AmaWaterways often shines.
AmaWaterways: Hosts The Chef’s Table, an included, multi-course tasting dinner with an exhibition kitchen. Ama is a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Tables et Auberges de France, honors that reflect consistent culinary excellence.
Avalon: Offers “Avalon Fresh” menus curated by Austrian chefs the Wahs, featuring lighter fare and vegetarian options. Avalon also offers room service for all three meals, something AmaWaterways does not.
Verdict:
Food lovers and fine-dining fans gravitate toward AmaWaterways.
For relaxed travelers who enjoy the option of in-room dining, Avalon provides added flexibility.
Category Five: Onboard Atmosphere
Avalon: Boutique hotel vibe — casual, social, yet refined. Suits travelers who enjoy independence and simplicity.
AmaWaterways: More traditional and service-forward. The privately owned structure (founded by Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst) ensures a consistently warm, personal touch across the fleet.
Verdict:
Avalon fits travelers seeking a contemporary feel; AmaWaterways appeals to those who enjoy elegance and family-style hospitality.
Category Six: Wellness & Active Travel
Both lines offer Wellness Hosts for yoga, stretching, and guided hikes, plus bikes for guest use. AmaWaterways integrates wellness into daily life with dedicated fitness spaces and active tours; Avalon takes a more flexible “join as you wish” approach.
Verdict:
Tie. Both deliver balance for guests who appreciate movement and mindfulness between ports.
Category Seven: Real-World Value Factors
Last-Minute Cabins: They exist, but rarely as deals — often priced higher for late bookers.
Airfare: Flights can be booked up to 11 months in advance; AmaWaterways frequently offers inclusive air options, starting at $999pp.
Pricing Trends: Fares nearly always increase as ships fill. The most affordable and the most elegant suites sell first — another reason early planning pays off.
These subtle but important distinctions are exactly where working with a river cruise specialist adds value — and costs you nothing extra compared to booking direct.
Final Verdict
This matchup stays close:
Category | Slight Edge |
|---|---|
Pricing & Value | Avalon |
Cabin Innovation | Avalon |
Culinary Excellence | AmaWaterways |
Family & Solo Options | AmaWaterways |
Ship Variety | AmaWaterways |
Wellness & Activities | Tie |
Avalon Waterways appeals to travelers who prefer modern design, value-driven pricing, and an easygoing onboard rhythm.
AmaWaterways attracts guests who seek refined service, immersive cuisine, and elegant ships that still feel personal.
At the end of the day, there’s no “winner” — only the line that feels most like you.
Planning Tip:
We’ve toured and sailed with both lines extensively and know their subtle differences — ship by ship, river by river.
Working with us costs nothing more than booking directly, and it ensures your itinerary fits you perfectly from start to finish.
