viking river cruise vs amawaterways

AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Which of these popular river cruise lines is right for you?

Among the cruise lines navigating the rivers of Europe, Southeast Asia and Egypt are two of the best-known names in the industry: AmaWaterways and Viking .

Each brand is distinguished by its hallmark attractions, such as AmaWaterways' selection of always-complimentary excursions and Viking's consistently sleek Scandinavian-inspired interior design. But is there really that much difference between these major river cruise brands that it matters which one you choose?

The answer is yes. Some of the variations may even surprise you, so read on for a head-to-head comparison of AmaWaterways versus Viking.

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AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Meet the river cruise lines

River cruise lines AmaWaterways and Viking launched within five years of each other. Both are helmed by well-known cruise and travel industry executives and feature fleets of modern river ships. Yet each takes its own unique approach to itineraries, tours and onboard ambience.

AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by Vienna-born Rudi Schreiner, Germany native Kristin Karst and the late Jimmy Murphy, who was Irish. The line has a fleet of 26 ships, with three new vessels launching in 2024 and 2025.

The brand's hallmark is offering multiple excursions, typically three or four per port, included in the cruise fare. These are usually a city walking tour, perhaps with a wine or culinary focus, or a bus tour to nearby sights. One "Gentle" group is dedicated to guests who need a little extra time getting around, and each port almost always includes a more challenging hike or bike ride for fitness-focused guests. AmaWaterways ships also carry bicycles on board, which are available for independent exploration.

The company is known for custom-designed ships with destination-inspired contemporary decor. Its public spaces feel like those you'd find in a locally owned boutique hotel. A key design innovation by AmaWaterways was the introduction of the "twin balcony," which consists of a French balcony and a full-size step-out balcony. This adds exceptional views and a sense of spaciousness to the cabins that feature them.

The Viking story started a few years before AmaWaterways. Launched in 1997 by Norwegian-born cruise veteran Torstein Hagen and several partners, Viking River Cruises was designed to be destination-focused and culturally immersive. Viking currently has 69 river ships, with two more scheduled to launch in 2024 and 2025.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking cruise ship

Viking's river cruise fares include one complimentary shore excursion in each port, typically a panoramic bus tour or guided walking tour. Guests may also choose from among a range of other extra-fee tour options, most with a cultural or culinary bent but some a bit more active.

The company grew its river cruise business by attracting mature travelers seeking a convenient way to explore multiple cities and countries in Europe. However, its brand recognition and growth greatly accelerated with the introduction of its first Viking Longship in 2012 and a successful marketing campaign around the launch of the Longships (including sponsorship of "Downton Abbey" on PBS Masterpiece).

Today, Viking's 55 virtually identical Longships, named for Nordic gods and goddesses (from Viking Agir to Viking Vili), represent a certain standard of European river cruising, and all feature light and airy Scandinavian design.

Unlike AmaWaterways, which remains strictly a river cruise company, Viking has expanded into ocean cruising. In 2015, the company introduced the 930-passenger Viking Star and now operates a fleet of nine identical ocean ships. In 2022, it added a pair of 378-guest, Polar-6-Class expedition ships. That means Viking fans can vacation around the world without leaving the brand.

The ships in AmaWaterways and Viking's river cruise fleets range from intimate (28 guests) to grand (386 guests), with the size differences most notable on rivers such as the Nile, Mekong and Mississippi.

AmaWaterways' 29 ships aren't entirely uniform, even the 20 in its popular European fleet. Those ships are either 360 or 443 feet in length and carry 140 to 196 passengers and 45 to 70 crew members, respectively. The majority (15 ships) carry between 152 and 162 passengers and 51 crew, while four smaller vessels accommodate either 140 or 144 passengers and 45 crew.

The outlier is 196-guest AmaMagna, which is the line's flagship vessel on the Danube. At 443 feet long and 72 feet wide, it is almost double the width of the average river ship without significantly increasing the passenger count. This has created an abundance of space that AmaWaterways has used to enhance the cruise experience. Cabins and suites are larger than on its other ships at 205 to 710 square feet versus 160 to 350 square feet. AmaMagna also offers passengers a choice of four dining venues rather than two, as well as five onboard bars, unique for a river ship.

On Portugal's Douro River, AmaWaterways has two ships, AmaDouro and AmaVida. Each accommodates 102 passengers and 38 crew. A third vessel, AmaSintra, will launch in early 2025.

In Egypt, AmaWaterways currently operates AmaDahlia, which carries 72 passengers and 62 crew. When a second ship, AmaLilia, launches in 2024, it will accommodate 82 passengers and 65 crew.

On the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, AmaDara is the cruise line's sole vessel. This ship, featuring French colonial decor and beautifully carved wood furniture, accommodates 124 passengers and 52 crew.

AmaWaterways also operates one vessel on the Chobe River in Botswana, and like AmaMagna , it's an outlier — but for the opposite reason. At just 150 feet in length, Zambezi Queen was designed in 2019 specifically for wildlife viewing and accommodates just 28 passengers and 22 crew.

In 2024, AmaWaterways will add South America to its portfolio when it begins cruising the Magdalena River in Colombia. AmaMagdalena will carry 60 passengers and 30 crew.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

As for Viking, the company's fleet of 55 identical Longships is ubiquitous along Central Europe's major rivers. At 443 feet in length, each accommodates 190 passengers and 53 crew members.

On Portugal's Douro River, Viking operates four smaller ships. They carry 106 passengers and 33 crew members. On the Elbe River in Germany, the cruise line has two ships, Viking Astrild and Viking Beyla, each carrying 98 passengers and 33 crew.

On the Seine River in France, Viking's four identical ships, all built in 2020, accommodate 168 passengers and 46 crew.

Viking's fleet on the Nile River in Egypt currently numbers four ships, with two more in the pipeline. The two newest — Viking Osiris and Viking Aton — were launched in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Each accommodates 82 passengers and 48 crew members. The similarly sized Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek are set to join them in 2024 and 2025. Two smaller ships, Viking Ra (2017) and MS Antares (2007), carry just 52 and 62 passengers, respectively, with crew staffs of 55 and 75.

In Asia, Viking operates just one ship. Viking Saigon, which debuted in 2022 and accommodates 80 passengers.

Viking's largest river ship is actually cruising stateside. Viking Mississippi, which debuted in 2022 and is 450 feet in length, accommodates 386 guests and 147 crew.

If you do the math, you'll see that while both AmaWaterways and Viking's main European river ships are 443 feet in length, Viking's ships carry 30 additional guests. That means Viking ships will be a tad more crowded and cabins slightly smaller (135 to 205 square feet versus 160 to 235 square feet) to accommodate. (However, suites on Viking vessels are generally a bit roomier.)

AmaWaterways also has a slightly better crew-to-guest ratio on its core European river fleet: 51 crew members for 156-162 guests versus Viking's 53 crew members for 190 guests. Both cruise lines offer excellent service, however, and any discrepancy will most likely be felt when a Viking ship is sailing at capacity, and the ship's sole dining room is full at mealtimes.

Who is on board AmaWaterways and Viking?

Several factors play a role in the passenger mix aboard these competing river cruise lines. For one, Viking's ships are adults only (passengers must be at least 18), while AmaWaterways welcomes multigenerational families. That's not to say that you'll find kids running amok on the latter's ships, but you might share your river cruise with parents and teens or grandparents and younger children during summer and spring break.

The most obvious difference to the casual observer, however, will be the age and fitness level of each line's core clientele.

Viking is highly popular with Americans — especially older Americans age 65 and above who like the cruise line's consistency and emphasis on easy sightseeing by bus. More active passengers might find themselves frustrated by the pace of guided walking tours, but they can always book excursions coded as "moderate" or "demanding" rather than "easy" to lessen the odds of being slowed by fellow passengers who aren't as speedy.

AmaWaterways is also popular with U.S. travelers but attracts a slightly more international demographic that's also perhaps a bit younger — and fitter. Why? Not only does the cruise line offer active hiking or biking excursions in most ports, but its ships also have a Wellness Host on board leading morning and afternoon yoga, meditation and fitness classes. Guests who book AmaMagna can even play pickleball on a full-size court.

AmaWaterways also partners with bike touring company Backroads to host groups of cyclists on board, typically 30 to 40 at a time, for lengthier and more challenging bike rides than on its normal itineraries.

Wine lovers are another core group for AmaWaterways, which in 2024 will host more than 70 wine-themed cruises highlighting different wineries (mostly U.S.-based but also some European wineries on Rhone itineraries) that have been invited to bring their wine club members on board for tastings, lectures and special excursions. Some groups buy out the entire ship, but the average is 70 to 80 passengers, or about half the ship's capacity. That means you could be sailing with a large group that's keenly focused on wine.

Cabins and suites

Because 19 of AmaWaterways' core European ships fall into two size categories, accommodating 144 to 162 passengers, cabin and suite design is consistent across most of the fleet. Each of the generously sized rooms features a flat-screen TV and a bathroom with a roomy shower.

Fixed window cabins on the lowest deck are 160 square feet, French balcony cabins are 155 to 170 square feet, twin balcony cabins (with both a French balcony and step-out veranda) are 210 to 235 square feet, and suites are 300 to 350 square feet. The company's two Douro River ships, AmaDouro and AmaVida, feature similarly sized cabins and suites.

While the general theme uniting the accommodations across AmaWaterways' European fleet is contemporary design with destination-inspired touches, suite decor is unique from ship to ship. In general, cabin decor has become lighter and brighter with each new (or newly refurbished) ship, with interesting textures and patterns replacing more traditional fabrics.

In 2017, AmaWaterways also launched the first river ship (AmaKristina) with connecting rooms, designed for multigenerational families or groups of friends traveling together. Six additional ships (AmaLea, AmaMagna, AmaMora, AmaLucia, AmaSiena and AmaDahlia) now also have this feature.

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

Viking Longships are each a carbon copy of the others, so passengers know exactly what they are getting when they book. Cabins are more compact than those on AmaWaterways' ships but have an airy ambience featuring light woods, neutral fabrics and a well-designed bathroom with a heated floor.

Standard cabins are 150 square feet and have a small window just above the water line. French Balcony cabins are a snug 135 square feet, but feature wall-to-wall sliding glass doors. Veranda cabins are 205 square feet, while veranda suites are 275 square feet. The two Explorer Suites are 445 square feet, including a 270-degree wrap-around veranda.

For slightly larger accommodations, river cruisers should look to AmaMagna, as its double-width design allows for roomier accommodations. Its two top balcony categories offer a generous 474 and 710 square feet of space, similar to the square footage of suites on many ocean ships.

Dining options on AmaWaterways vs. Viking

There's no question that you will eat well on a river cruise. Both AmaWaterways and Viking have culinary programs designed to appeal to a wide variety of food preferences, including vegetarian. You can expect to enjoy classic preparations as well as destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisines.

AmaWaterways, which is the only river cruise line that's a member of the prestigious culinary organization La Chaine des Rotisseurs, offers a la carte dining from menus that change daily for both lunch and dinner, as well as full-service breakfast from menus rather than a buffet. Options range from eggs Benedict or omelets to smoked trout or avocado toast.

Guests who prefer a lighter, more informal breakfast or lunch can skip the Main Restaurant and opt to enjoy a small selection of options served in a central buffet in the Lounge.

Sit-down lunch menus in the Main Restaurant feature a selection of appetizers served family-style and main course options that include at least one local preparation, such as goulash in Budapest or wiener schnitzel in Vienna. Dinner menus are more extensive and include three or four appetizers/soups and three or four mains (with well-conceived meat or fish options and delicious vegetarian dishes). There are two hard-to-resist dessert choices, along with seasonal fruits and a selection of cheeses.

All AmaWaterways ships also feature the Chef's Table, an intimate space (it seats 28) located at the back of the ship and offering panoramic views. Passengers can reserve a shared table here to enjoy a beautifully prepared multicourse meal at no additional cost.

In addition, AmaMagna offers two more restaurant options: Jimmy's for casual, family-style dining and Al Fresco for vegetable-forward menu options served in an outdoor setting.

AmaWaterways serves an excellent selection of complimentary wines (most from local vineyards along your river cruise route) and beers with both lunch and dinner, as well as a selection of complimentary mixed drinks, wines and beers during the nightly predinner Sip & Sail cocktail hour. Sparkling wine is also available during breakfast.

Viking's dining experience is also designed to offer plenty of options. At breakfast and lunch in the Main Restaurant, passengers can select items from the buffet — which typically includes freshly made pastries, cheeses, smoked salmon, oatmeal, fruit and eggs — and/or order off of the day's menu (buttermilk pancakes, eggs Benedict and more).

Lunch is similar, with buffet selections available as well as a menu with daily selections (soup, salad and two main options) plus always-available dishes (such as salad Nicoise and burgers). The lunch menu does not always have a locally inspired dish, but Viking guests can enjoy their midday meal while surveying local surroundings by opting to dine alfresco on the Aquavit Terrace. This aft space is popular on days when the weather is good and offers much of the same menu as the Main Restaurant.

It's at dinner that Viking's chefs inject more local flavors into the menu, with a suggested three-course Regional Specialties Tasting Menu (chicken paprikash as the main in Hungary, for instance). These offerings are complemented by a daily selection of two starters, two mains (always with a vegetarian selection) and one dessert. In addition, guests can choose from a Classics menu with always-available favorites.

Viking also serves unlimited complimentary wine and beer with both lunch and dinner, but the selection is a bit limited. Passengers wanting more options can purchase a Silver Spirits drinks package to enjoy a wider choice, including the sommelier's selection of wines, which are often excellent local varietals. The package also includes cocktails and other beverages, which can be enjoyed at any time.

Viking does not host a complimentary evening cocktail hour, but on certain days it does offer free wine tastings on the Aquavit Terrace.

What's on board

Most of the real estate aboard river cruise ships is taken up by guest accommodations, the main restaurant and the lounge, leaving little room for any fancy attractions beyond a small gift shop.

But AmaWaterways has managed to add a perk: a heated pool or hot tub on the Sun Deck of most of its ships. However, passengers who require an elevator can only access the two main decks, not the Sun Deck or the lowest deck.

In addition to their cache of bicycles, AmaWaterways ships also offer a wellness program, led by an onboard Wellness Host. Classes on the Sun Deck or in the Lounge consist of morning yoga, meditation or core strengthening and afternoon stretching or active walks. Every ship also has a small fitness center and a massage room. AmaMagna also has a full-size pickleball court.

Entertainment-wise, guests can expect nightly music by a piano player/DJ as well as guest performances by locals that range from folkloric song and dance to contemporary music.

Shipwide Wi-Fi is complimentary, but there is no internet center.

Viking's Longships don't feature pools or any wellness/fitness activities beyond a walking track and small putting green, but they do have a library with a good selection of books and an internet corner with laptops guests can use (shipwide Wi-Fi is free as well) and a small gift shop.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

The Sun Deck features a shaded sitting area, as well as solar panels and an herb garden that allows chefs anytime access to fresh ingredients. Elevators on Viking ships also offer access to the middle decks but not the Sun Deck.

Viking's entertainment is similar to most river cruise lineups and features a musician or DJ as well as local performers with a folkloric, classical or contemporary style.

AmaWaterways and Viking itineraries

River cruise itineraries, especially in Europe, don't vary that much from line to line. The cruise season is mainly from late March to mid-December. Certain rivers are more popular — namely the Danube, Rhine and Rhone — and most cruise lines, including AmaWaterways and Viking, visit the same key ports.

AmaWaterways offers 33 different itineraries in Europe on the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Garonne and Dordogne, Douro, Main and Moselle rivers, as well as the waterways of Belgium and Holland. Cruises last five to 14 nights.

As of 2024, the company is offering February and March sailings aboard AmaMagna ("Magna on the Danube") on the Danube and AmaLucia ("Captivating Rhine") on the Rhine. Yes, the weather will be a bit nippy, but there will be fewer crowds, and the cruise fares will be hundreds of dollars lower than in warmer months.

The river cruise line does not only sail in Europe. In Egypt, the company features one Nile River cruise itinerary, "Secrets of Egypt & the Nile." It includes a three-night hotel stay in Cairo and a seven-night cruise.

It also offers two seven-night itineraries on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

AmaWaterway's seven itinerary options in Africa all combine a three- or four-night cruise on the Chobe River in Botswana with land stays in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe or Tanzania for a total of 10 to 17 nights.

In late 2024, AmaWaterways will become the first upscale river cruise company to sail the Magdalena River in Colombia. Its two new seven-night itineraries include the "Magic of Colombia" itinerary from Barranquilla to Cartagena and the "Wonders of Colombia" cruise from Cartagena to Barranquilla.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Viking offers 29 different itineraries in Europe on the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Garonne & Dordogne, Douro and Elbe rivers, as well as the waterways of Belgium and Holland. While most sailings, lasting seven to 16 nights, are from early March to mid-December, Viking has added a 10-night "Treasures of the Rhine" itinerary between Amsterdam and Basel for 2024, with dates in January and February.

Viking also offers river cruises beyond Europe. In Egypt, Viking offers one itinerary, the 10-night "Pharaohs & Pyramids," featuring four nights in Cairo and a seven-night Nile cruise. Its itinerary through Vietnam and Cambodia is the 14-night "Magnificent Mekong" from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, which includes an eight-day river cruise and hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City.

Finally, the new Viking Mississippi cruises five itineraries in America's Heartland. These range from seven-night roundtrips from New Orleans to 21-night journeys that cover the mighty Mississippi's entire 2,350-mile length from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota.

Bottom line

While both AmaWaterways and Viking do have a lot in common — similar itineraries and pricing, excellent cuisine and a generally casual dress code — their differences will matter to certain travelers, especially those who prioritize active wellness or multiple included tour options ... or perhaps even both.

Choose AmaWaterways if you want a slightly more inclusive cruise fare, a good selection of regional wines and a passenger mix that's a bit younger and more international. Choose Viking if you appreciate airy, modern design and enjoy traditional guided tours focused on history, culture and cuisine.

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AmaWaterways vs Viking – Which River Cruise is the Best?

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AmaWaterways vs Viking

Amawaterways, itineraries, ships and cabins, family travel, amawaterways vs viking conclusion.

Are you planning a river cruise? Sounds wonderful! After all, what could be better than having a memorable holiday with your loved ones, visiting many ports and various destinations as you go further inland?

River cruising has become increasingly popular as it offers unique and immersive experiences through some of the beautiful and picturesque views. It provides a relaxing and comfortable way to explore different cultures and countries and is arguably the most convenient and scenic way to enrich your travels. Whether it’s the legendary rivers of Europe, the mysterious allure of the African rivers, or the iconic rivers of Asia, a few world-class river cruise lines offer spectacular experiences – among which are the AmaWaterways and Vikings.

So, if you plan to embark on such a journey and need help deciding between AmaWaterways vs Viking, I am here to help. I will compare the two in this article to help you make an informed decision!

Both cruise lines appear very similar as they sail across all major rivers worldwide. However, there are definitely differences between them, which you will see in this AmaWaterways vs Viking comparison. But first, let’s first start with some general information.

The river cruise company was founded in 2002 by Rudi Schreiner, Jimmy Murphy, and Kristin Karst. AmaWaterways offers luxury cruises across various European, Asian, and African rivers. It is known for its exceptional services, unique and immersive experiences, and innovative facilities.

Viking, a river and ocean cruise company, was founded by Torstein Hagen in 1997. It offers river and ocean cruises across various destinations across the world. Known for its elegant ships, cultural immersions, and enriching experiences, Viking is famous among travelers.

When it comes to Amawaterways vs Viking, there is hardly any difference between the two cruise lines in terms of pricing. The prices are mostly similar, from the most basic cabins to the luxury suites. Both include a minimum of one onshore excursion in every post, all of the onboard meals, WiFi facilities, and cultural programs.

Both cruise lines sail across all major rivers, so many of their itineraries overlap, especially in Europe. This happens when they sail across the Danube, Rhine, Elbe, Seine, Douro, Moselle, and more. They also organize cruises in Myanmar and the Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam. The exotic itineraries are usually planned with extensive land tours to give you the best impression of the region. For example, AmaWaterways has cruises on the Chobe River in South Central Africa, a prime Safari and wildlife-spotting country. On the other hand, Viking sails across the Nile in Egypt, Lake Nasser, the Yangtze River in China, and across a maze of canals in Western Russia.

AmaWaterways cruise line has 20 plus ships in its fleet, most sailing across European rivers. These ships have similar designs, features, and room facilities for between 28 and 196 guests. The cabins are vibrantly colorful with bright and beautiful patterns. In addition, the cabin decor differs from ship to ship and comes with beautiful woodwork. Their cabins are also great for singles and family travel convenience.

On the other hand, Viking ships have a similar design, and the company is amongst the largest cruise lines, with 76 ships in its fleet. Its vessels can accommodate up to 190 passengers in Europe, up to 200 in Russia, and 256 in China. In addition, Viking focuses less on interior decor and prioritizes culture and destinations. You won’t find any vibrant colors in the communal areas or cabins, but there is a lot of Scandinavian art across the ships. They do come with some extra features like heated bathroom floors and large storage spaces, so if that is something you prefer, you will love it on a Viking river ship!

As I mentioned above, the prices of both companies include one onshore excursion in each port. These are usually offered by a local guide who knows the area’s history and culture. An additional fee would be required if you would like to join more of an in-depth or specialized tour. The premium excursions include dance classes, cooking, winery visits, and glassblowing.

Their excursions and activities are similar across the cruise lines. Here are some key features that distinguish their approaches:

AmaWaterways offers the best and most varied port tour visits. Why? Because different traveler groups have been taken into consideration. In essence, there are three levels of guided tours: gentle walking, general, and active. Most passengers opt for a general group, which combines tour buses, some walking, and guided exploration. Gentle tours are designed for those requiring slow-paced exploration and mobility issues. On the other hand, active tours are for the ones who are ready to explore slightly at a faster pace. It includes more mileage, climbing up stairs, or steep inclines. The ships also come with bicycle facilities on board, which guests can use to explore the ports – super convenient! If you wish for a more active time during your port visits, then AmaWaterways should be your pick!

Viking river cruises also offer extraordinary and memorable shore excursions. They have partnered with a lot of members who provide unique trip experiences such as cognac tasting in France, truffle hunting, or a visit to a private island. Their forte is providing more hidden gems during the visits, so you get to experience something amazing off-the-beaten-path.

Both cruise lines offer guest buffet breakfast lunches along with a la carte options. Each evening sit-down dinner is hosted at a determined time, and the chefs use locally sourced ingredients to give guests a literal taste of the region they are sailing through. The price also includes beer, local wine, and soda served during lunch and dinner. But if you have any allergies or intolerances, AmaWaterways ship cuisines are transparent about their menu, listing all allergens and labeling food. You will even find a gluten-free corner! 

Only AmaWaterways lets children sail onboard. To provide a fascinating experience for little guests, they partnered with Adventures by Disney, offering some amazing river cruise itineraries. Since some of the ships have staterooms, it is easier to accommodate 304 people with connecting staterooms. It makes exploring Europe all the more fun and eventful. On the other hand, Viking ships cater to adults, as all passengers must be 18 and above . 

While both cruises have a lot more in common in terms of pricing, itineraries, and excellent cuisine, the difference would matter to certain travelers. For example, Ama Waterways is a great option when you want to enjoy an active river cruise with your little ones and are after a bit more amenities on board. On the other hand, Vikings is popular for its minimalist approach and is suitable for those looking for quiet, adult-only getaways focused on history and culture.

Looking for popular AmaWaterways special cruise offers ? Worry not! I am here to help! Let’s connect! As a travel expert, I will help you plan a fabulous trip of a lifetime the way you have always envisioned.

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Viking vs. AmaWaterways: River Cruise Comparison

If you are looking to go on a river cruise, you have more than likely come across both AmaWaterways and Viking . These river cruise operators are similar, which can make it difficult to decide which one is best. In this article we will compare them to see which is better, Viking or AmaWaterways, for your trip.

Both Viking and AmaWaterways offer itineraries that cruise some of the most iconic rivers around the world. Passengers can cruise through the mighty Mekong in Southeast Asia , the Rhine in Europe, the Nile River in Africa , and more.

In addition, when doing a side-by-side comparison of Viking vs AmaWaterways, you will see that both companies market to North American travelers. Nonetheless, there are key differences between Viking and AmaWaterways that you should consider when making your decision.

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Viking Overview

Viking is the bigger of the two cruise companies, with a total of 64 ships, and the number continues to grow. These Scandinavian longships can accommodate up to 190 passengers.

The award-winning fleet is known for its sleek design capable of navigating narrow European waterways, with smaller ships that offer cruise itineraries through spots like the Douro River in Portugal and the Elbe River in France. However, you will also find cruise itineraries in China, Russia, Egypt, Vietnam , and more.

Viking ships may be smaller, but they have large staterooms and suites. The staterooms feature private verandas and all the amenities you need to have a comfortable and relaxing cruise.

When you aren’t in your room, you will find fine dining restaurants, lounges, bars, sun decks, and more on board the ships. The Scandinavian longships are “green friendly” and equipped with hybrid engines and solar panels.

As mentioned, there are plenty of Viking cruise itineraries to choose from that last between 8 and 23 days. The duration of the cruise will depend on the route and the number of stops. Lastly, Viking also offers ocean cruises in addition to river cruises.

AmaWaterways Overview

While they have plans to grow their fleet within the next few years, AmaWaterways currently has a 25-ship fleet. The itineraries cruise through similar countries and continents as Viking, including Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America. AmaWaterways has 23 ships that sail through Europe and can accommodate up to 164 passengers.

Similar to Viking ships, AmaWaterways offers passengers spacious staterooms. Some of these staterooms have twin balconies, marble bathrooms, and more. The suites will have more luxurious features, such as full-size bathtubs, showers, and enlarged living areas.

A highlight of AmaWaterways is their customized approach to cruise itineraries and onboard experience. Itineraries can be tweaked by the captain in order to provide the best possible experience for the passengers.

Plus, their unmatched customer service and world-class dining will make your cruise memorable. AmaWaterways was the first river cruise company to offer port bicycles to passengers, giving them the freedom to explore on their own.

AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries range from 7 and 14 days, depending on the location and route. However, AmaWaterways will be launching a longer itinerary that we will discuss later in the article.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Food & Drink

When comparing Viking vs. AmaWaterways food and drink, you will find that both cruise companies offer top-notch cuisine. They both have fine dining and buffets. In addition, passengers can make special requests for off-the-menu items.

There is no assigned seating for dinner, and soft drinks, beer, and wine, are offered with meals free of charge. One difference is that Viking offers an unlimited alcohol package, whereas AmaWaterways does not. Nonetheless, passengers can bring their own alcohol on board.

AmaWaterways offers one dinner per cruise at their special restaurant, The Chef’s Table. You won’t find strict dress codes at either Viking or AmaWaterways , so passengers can dress casually after a long day exploring onshore.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Itineraries

As mentioned earlier, the itineraries for Viking and AmaWaterways are very similar. In Europe, travelers can choose river cruises on the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, Seine, Garonne, Elbe, Rhone, Douro, and Dordogne. Christmas market cruises are also a popular option for couples looking to experience the holiday in a unique way.

Both river cruise companies offer itineraries on the Mekong River in Cambodia and Vietnam. In addition, you can cruise the Nile River in Africa. Viking has other cruises that go through Russia and the Mississippi River in the U.S. AmaWaterways, on the other hand, sails the Chobe River in Africa.

Each company continues to increase its itineraries and the rivers they travel on. For example, AmaWaterways will be launching a 46-night cruise through Europe in 2023, and in 2024, they will be the first cruise line to offer an itinerary on the Magdalena River in Colombia .

You won’t have a difficult time finding an exotic cruise that you’ll never forget with either Viking or AmaWaterways. However, it will come down to where you want to go, the time of year, and your budget.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Cost

For most travelers, budget is a vital part when deciding what river cruise company and itinerary to choose. The cost for a Viking or AmaWaterways cruise can differ due to the length of the trip, the time of year, and your stateroom selection.

With that being said, travelers can expect the costs to range from $1,500 and $5,000+ per person. To get the best deal, narrow down where you want to go and track prices throughout the year.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Activities

One of the most exciting parts of a cruise is exploring each port city. During stops, Viking and AmaWaterways offer an included excursion. The excursion is guided by a local expert and you can learn about the history and culture.

However, passengers aren’t required to go on the excursions. Those who like to explore on their own can do so as they please. In addition to the included excursion, travelers can also pay for premium tours.

Viking is known to offer adventurous excursions taking passengers off the beaten path. However, for those who travel at a slower pace, there are options for them as well.

AmaWaterways has a variety of excursions depending on your fitness and interests. For example, some passengers may choose to borrow bikes to explore, while others may take a bus tour with little to no walking.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: For Kids

If you want to take a river cruise with your little travelers, then AmaWaterways is the best choice for you. The reason is that Viking only allows passengers that are 18 years and older.

Parents should know that while AmaWaterways allows children, they do not cater onboard activities to them. In addition, there is no childcare if you have a baby or toddler.

Nonetheless, there are itineraries that would be exciting for older children. To get a better idea of what would be a great choice for children, speak to a cruise travel agent for help.

If you want to ensure your children are entertained during the cruise, we’d recommend choosing an ocean cruise. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean , Norwegian , and Carnival offer endless fun-filled activities for kids.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Entertainment

There are quite a few differences between ocean and river cruises in terms of entertainment. River cruises have a strong focus on the culture and history at each port. In addition, they offer onboard education, including libraries and lectures from experts.

Ocean cruises, on the other hand, put a big emphasis on onboard entertainment. Partly this is due to the size difference between an ocean cruise ship compared to a river cruise ship. Ocean cruise ships will have rock climbing, waterparks, movie theaters, surf simulators, go-kart tracks, and more.

Nonetheless, AmaWaterways and Viking offer entertainment such as live music, bars, lounges, and more. AmaWaterways also has swim-up bars, hair salons, and spas.

Viking ships are known for their spacious indoor and outdoor lounging areas. The most well-known area is the expansive indoor/outdoor Aquatic Terrace.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Typical Passengers

Viking and AmaWaterways typically attract an older demographic. This is due to river cruises being geared towards learning about the history and culture at each port. Plus, since they don’t have extravagant entertainment and activity onboard, the atmosphere is more relaxed.

In general, you will find a mixture of retired couples and younger couples on honeymoons and romantic getaways. If you want to be on a river cruise where children aren’t allowed, then Viking is the better choice.

Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Final Thoughts

Overall, you can’t go wrong with either river cruise line as they both offer great customer service, exquisite cuisine, and unique itineraries. If you want to find a river cruise you can take your kids on, then we’d recommend AmaWaterways. However, if you are looking for more itinerary choices, Viking is a better choice due to its larger fleet.

Not sure if either of these river cruise companies is right for you? Can’t decide between a river cruise or an ocean cruise? We have articles that might help, including AmaWaterways or Avalon for Your Next River Cruise? , Norwegian vs. Princess Cruiselines – What You Need to Know , Uniworld vs. Tauck: Which River Cruise Company Is Best for You? , Royal Caribbean vs. MSC , Uniworld vs. Avalon , and Royal Caribbean vs. Celebrity .

1 thought on “Viking vs. AmaWaterways: River Cruise Comparison”

Having had the pleasure of both Viking and Ama Waterways….I agree with all you reported, but the big difference is payment before travel. I am taking a trip on Viking in September and had to pay my full cost one full year in advance. Whereas with ama, we paid in full 4 months before our trip……This difference is the main difference and the reason I will only use AMA in the future. Cheers, Bryan

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