AmaDara on the Mekong River and AmaSofia will sail Europe’s Rhine and Danube Rivers in 2026
AmaSofia will be AmaWaterways’ 24th ship to sail on Europe’s most popular rivers. AmaSofia’s inaugural 14-night itinerary, aptly named Magnificent Europe, follows the route of emperors, kings and queens as it journeys between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guests will sail on three rivers through four countries on an immersive exploration of local culture, history, foods and traditions. Highlights include guided bike rides through scenic vineyards and small towns, visits to a pretzel bakery, tours of numerous castles and palaces, culinary tours, and deep dives into many of the region’s most historic cities. The custom-designed luxury AmaSofia will have 31 departures in 2026, featuring multiple itineraries on the Danube, such as Melodies of the Danube, Romantic Danube, and the very popular Christmas Markets on the Danube.
![Cruising on the Danube river](https://traveltrade.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/DANUBE_AT_CruisingDanubeRvr-1024x684.jpg)
AmaKaia is expected to embark on its first seven-night itinerary on August 3, 2026. Guests will explore the ancient cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia while enjoying regional delicacies, a wide range of daily included excursions, local onboard entertainment, and the luxury amenities AmaWaterways is known for. Exploration opportunities include traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) rides, visits to local workshops and monasteries, a Buddhist Blessing Ceremony, and learning about the region’s histories from those who taught it and, in many cases, lived it. The two seven-night itineraries, Charms of the Mekong and Riches of the Mekong both offer guests a unique blend of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. AmaKaia will be doing 22 sailings in 2026 and upwards of 38 in 2027. Cruising with AmaWaterways includes fine dining in multiple venues, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks, a daily variety of small group excursions, including hiking, biking and special interest tours, high-quality Wi-Fi, a Wellness Program with a variety of host-led fitness classes, airport transfers, and much more.
![Bamboo vendors in Vietnam](https://traveltrade.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/MEK_BambooVendor-1024x681.jpg)
Win one of four famils on a European river cruise
New Zealand travel advisors taking part in one of three training webinars with AmaWaterways on 12 June, have the chance to one one of four places on a European river cruise famil later this year.
By participating, advisors could win some fabulous prizes, including one of four places on a famil later this year or one of nine $100 gift card prizes. Learn how AmaWaterways can enhance your business and you could WIN some fabulous prizes, including one of FOUR places on a famil later this year! The 30-minute webinars will be held live on Wednesday 12 June (choose from 8.30am, 12pm or 6pm AEST) and are open to all New Zealand travel trade. Register Here