Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
A passport is required for all AmaWaterways river cruises and it must be valid for at least six months after you return home. It is your responsibility to ensure your passport is valid and contains all required visas. Please check your itinerary carefully and consult with the appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed. Vacations can be disrupted or altered if the correct documents cannot be presented at airports or border crossings. We recommend photocopying the first page of your passport, airline tickets, driver’s license and/or birth certificate to expedite the process of replacing any documents lost while traveling. Keep the originals separate from the copies and pack some extra passport photos as well. Another option is to scan your passport, airline tickets and credit card numbers and email them to yourself as attachments. Please be sure to fill out the “Emergency Next of Kin” section in your passport (in pencil) as well.
Online Check-In
Online Check-In
AmaWaterways’ online Cruise Check-In process is intended for the convenience of our valued guests. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at www.amawaterways.com/welcome-check-in. In addition to providing the information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process:
- Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
- Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency
- Allows you to pre-register for all your shore excursions (does not apply to Egypt or Africa cruises)
What to Pack
What to Pack
Your Essential European River Cruise Packing Guide
Our best advice is, “if in doubt, leave it out.” Adopt a simple color scheme for your travel wardrobe to reduce the amount of clothing required. Pack wrinkle-resistant, easy-care cotton/polyester clothing and bring enough underwear and socks so frequent laundry is not necessary. You may wish to bring a few casually elegant outfits and something a little dressier to wear to the Captain’s Dinner or an evening concert. Bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and one pair of dressier shoes.
You may be traveling through different climates and altitudes, so layering is advisable. Europe can be quite warm in the summer, so short sleeve shirts, shorts, skirts, sundresses and a wide-brimmed hat are good items to pack. Bring a raincoat and warm sweater for chilly evenings, especially in the spring and fall, and warmer clothing and a heavy coat for winter cruises. Umbrellas are provided on board.
Carry-On Luggage
Prepare your carry-on luggage with the necessary essentials. Our suggestions for what to pack:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb or hairbrush, razor, feminine products and cosmetics
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hand sanitizer, tissues and antibacterial wipes
- Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
- Basic first aid kit: medications for upset stomach, prescriptions, aspirin, antiseptic cream, cold medicine, vitamins and bandages
- Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
- Converters, adapters, chargers and power cords
- Personal ear buds or headphones to use with our Quietvox commentary systems during shore excursions
- Travel umbrella
- Camera and extra memory cards
- Smart phone
- Proof of vaccination or negative PCR test, if required
Important: Pack a sufficient supply (including two weeks beyond your planned return) of any medications you are taking, copies of the prescriptions and the telephone/fax numbers of your doctor. Some countries require prescription drugs be carried in their original container with the label clearly visible.
Note: Europe uses 220v and 2-pin adapters. Be sure to inspect your chargers and power cords (for cell phones, cameras, electric shavers, laptops, MP3 players, e-readers, etc.) to determine specific converter and/or adapter requirements to ensure their safe operation aboard the ship. Every stateroom has a USB charger should you need to use it.
For Your Travels
For Your Travels
Tips for Long Flights
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
- Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
- Try to sleep during your overnight flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
- Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.
Airport Security and Check-in
It is recommended you be at the airport at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. This allows enough time to check your baggage, present your passport and other forms required including proof of vaccination or related tests, confirm seat assignments and boarding passes, and clear security procedures before proceeding to the boarding area. Most airlines offer online check-in 24 hours prior to departure, which can help you avoid long lines once at the airport. If permitted, this is also a chance to request seating assignments or buy an upgrade if available. Airport security regulations require that sharp objects of any kind be stored inside your checked luggage, not in your carry-on bag. You may be asked to put your shoes and/or coat through an X-ray scanner, so be prepared to remove them.
TSA Secure Flight Program
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to provide Secure Flight passenger data when reserving airline travel. This includes your full name, date of birth and gender as it appears on non-expired government-issued travel documents (e.g., passport, re-entry permit, alien registration card, “green card,” photo ID, etc.). Any missing or incorrect information can cause unnecessary delays at the airport. If you reserved your airline tickets through AmaWaterways and have not yet provided us with this Secure Flight passenger data, please contact our office as soon as possible at 800-626-0126 or 818-428-6198 (if dialing from outside of the U.S.). Please refer to your local transportation authorities for more information.
Travel Protection Insurance
If you purchased travel protection insurance, please make sure to write down important information such as the insurance company’s telephone number and your policy number. We strongly encourage all our guests to be fully vaccinated 14 days prior to their departure date and to ensure they have adequate medical and travel insurance related to COVID.
Late or Missed Flights
If you miss a flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise guest bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel arrangements and contact your travel advisor for assistance. Typically, airlines will do everything in their power to get you on the next available flight. Once you know your new flight information, please call the emergency contact number listed within our Contact Information section and your electronic Travel Documents.
Baggage
International air carriers are often very strict about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or visit its website for specific requirements prior to your departure, as size and weight limitations vary according to the airline and destination. It is also important to check European domestic flight regulations as these too may vary. Passengers on international flights are usually allowed one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on bag per person. Some airlines limit each checked bag to a maximum of 62 linear inches (158 linear cm, length + width + height) and 50 lbs. (23 kg). Your carry-on should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 22 cm) or weigh more than 17 lbs. (8 kg). International air carriers may impose fees for baggage that is too large or heavy and/or require you to remove certain articles in order to meet weight restrictions.
Note: Current airport security regulations require that any liquids and semi-liquids (e.g., lotions, gels, etc.) stored in your carry-on bag MUST be in a container no larger than 3.4 oz. (100 ml) and all items must fit into a clear quart-sized plastic bag. Any items exceeding this limit may be confiscated by TSA personnel. Please refer to your local transportation authorities for more information.
Delayed Baggage
Baggage can sometimes be delayed during air transport. Pack medications and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag. Place a copy of the hotel and ship contact info inside each piece of checked luggage, as this will help the airline locate you should your bags be delayed. Please note it is the responsibility of the airline to deliver any delayed bags to you. Claims for reimbursement for delayed luggage should be submitted directly to the airline. Fill out a claim form at the appropriate airline desk before leaving the airport. If you need assistance later regarding your delayed luggage, please ask your Cruise Manager or local host to contact the airline for information.
Note: Please check airline websites for specific baggage weight, baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage charges all your flights (both international and intra-Europe).
Important: AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air-carriers. In addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motorcoach, storage space may be limited and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for health and safety reasons. We recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per guest. Luggage tags and travel wallets will be delivered to your stateroom on board. We also suggest putting your contact information, such as your name, cell phone number and email as well as the hotel and/or ship contact information inside your bags, just in case they are delayed.
Health & Well-Being
Health & Well-Being
Our teams are experienced with enhanced health and safety protocols and are ready and eager to safely welcome you on board. Our experienced Cruise Managers and crew have undergone special training and will be advised and guided by a Public Health Officer. As always, our crew will be on hand to take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your much-anticipated river cruise vacation.
Physical Requirements
AmaWaterways' itineraries are as varied and active as you want them to be. Land packages and shore excursions require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking and sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain. The embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore may not be able to accommodate guests with mobility issues. Facilities and services for guests with physical limitations may sometimes be limited or non-existent.
Throughout your river cruise it is likely the ship will be docked next to one or two other river ships. It is important to note that in these cases, disembarkation/embarkation may include walking up the stairs and through the adjacent ship(s) lobby or Sun Deck to reach the shore. You may also need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or occasionally cross an uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. These are typical situations that are beyond the control of AmaWaterways.
We kindly request guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a companion who is physically able to provide such assistance. Transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be adjusted for unexpected delays due to physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, motorcoaches, local guides/operators or other independent suppliers.
Please note: Due to uneven terrain, a lack of handicap amenities, and a fair amount of stairs, our Portugal itineraries are not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
Medical Conditions
Please advise us before your departure date if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip.
Special Diets
Please let us know prior to your departure date if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your request with the resources available to us
myAmaCruise App
myAmaCruise App
Packed full of features to enhance your river cruise experience, our app puts your itinerary at your fingertips.
Download our myAmaCruise App [iOS] [Android]
Stay Informed: Enable push notifications within the app settings before you depart to ensure you receive important communications such as a last-minute change to your embarkation location. Instructions on how to enable push notifications are below:
- iPhones and Apple Devices: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Notifications, and then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can toggle Allow Notifications to “on.”
- Android: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Apps, then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can Select Notifications and toggle the button to “on.”
Excursion Selection: Register for your shore excursions as early as 45 days prior to embarkation after final payment – plus, make changes to your selection if needed once on board.
My Cruise Itinerary: Access a live tracking map of your river cruise route as well as information about each destination you will visit.
My Cruise Album: Upload your river cruise memories to your personal cruise album. You can also share with friends via Facebook, X (Twitter) or email postcard.
Electronic Documents: Access your Daily Cruiser newsletter as well as your electronic Travel Documents (approximately 45 days prior to embarkation) and even complete your post-cruise guest survey.
Daily Cruiser: During your cruise, access an electronic version of your Daily Cruiser newsletter, which provides information about the day ahead including a schedule of shore excursions, onboard activities and more.
Learn more at www.AmaWaterways.com/myAmaCruiseApp
Air with AmaWaterways
Air with AmaWaterways
At AmaWaterways, we enjoy taking care of you throughout your entire journey, including your air travel. When you or your travel advisor reserve your flights with us, you’ll enjoy the convenience and peace of mind knowing that our dedicated Air Team is there assisting with this important part of your journey, allowing you to rest easy before and during your much-anticipated river cruise vacation.
Why Reserve Your Flights with AmaWaterways:
Learn About Your Destination
Learn About Your Destination
Portugal
Click here to visit our Portugal destination hub.
Click here to read our Connections blog articles.
Europe’s Wine Regions
Click here to visit our Wine destination hub.
Click here to read our Connections blog articles.
Airport Information
Airport Information
For your convenience, your airport information will be included in your electronic travel documents to ensure you have the latest information pertaining to your journey.
Note: The instructions below apply only to guests who have purchased an
AmaWaterways transfer.
LISBON: Portela Airport (LIS)
Please pass through Customs, collect your baggage
and proceed towards the arrivals gate exit. You will be met by an AmaWaterways
representative holding a sign with your ship name.
Lisbon Portela Airport is located 4 miles (7 km) northeast of the city center,
approximately 15 minutes from the city center and hotel.
Docking Locations
Docking Locations
Some European ports have more than one docking location, so please refer to your cruise documents for the exact location. Local river authorities are responsible for allocating docking spaces and locations may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. Ships typically moor facing upstream, against the current. There may be times when multiple ships are tied together and views from your stateroom are temporarily restricted. These are typical situations that are beyond the control of AmaWaterways. Docking locations may also change without notice. For guests making their own way to the ship, please contact the ship on the day of embarkation to verify its exact location.
Embarkation & Disembarkation
Embarkation & Disembarkation
Official embarkation time is 3 p.m. for all ships. This allows the staff and crew enough time to prepare your stateroom and have the ship ready for your cruise. If you arrive earlier, you may check your luggage on board and relax in the Main Lounge or explore the local area.
Official disembarkation time is 9 a.m. You may disembark earlier if the ship is moored in your final destination. You may disembark later provided you have vacated your stateroom and have checked out no later than 9 a.m.
Land Packages & Hotel Information
Land Packages & Hotel Information
AmaWaterways Hotel Welcome Desk
For itineraries that include a hotel stay, you will find an AmaWaterways Welcome Desk located in or near the hotel lobby attended by the Cruise Manager and/or a local host. They can provide helpful information about the city and suggestions for your free time as well as information pertaining to your hotel to ship / hotel to airport transfer. If you reserved an extra night stay at our hotel, please note that no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk will be available. The hotel reception staff or Concierge Desk will be available for questions and local recommendations.
For pre-cruise land packages, the AmaWaterways Welcome Desk is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the scheduled arrival day and at posted hours during the rest of your stay. For post-cruise land packages, the desk is typically open for two hours on arrival day and at posted hours during the remainder of your stay.
If you arrive outside of these operating hours, please proceed to the hotel’s reception desk to check in. A Welcome Packet will await you at reception or in your room with information about your Cruise Manager, his/her phone number and the schedule for the next day. There will be no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk outside of scheduled land package dates.
Hotel Arrival Information
Hotel check-in time is typically 3 p.m. local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later. Upon arrival to the hotel, please proceed to the AmaWaterways Welcome Desk (usually located in the lobby area). There is no guaranteed early check-in and requesting such may involve an extra fee. Please check with your specific hotel to confirm the check-in time.
Hotel Departure Information
Check-out time varies but is generally between 10 a.m. and 12 noon. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels will store your bags until you depart for the airport. Guests with AmaWaterways departure transfers will be informed of their transfer pick-up time by the Cruise Manager or local host. If you do not have a pre-arranged transfer, the hotel reception staff will be happy to arrange transportation to the airport by taxi or private car.
Note: If you are transferring to the ship, the Cruise Manager or local host will inform you of the arrangements prior to check-out.
Travel Money Tips
Travel Money Tips
ATM (Automated Teller Machine) / ABM (Automated Banking Machine)
Our ships do not have cash machines, but ATMs and ABMs are widely available throughout Europe and readily accessible during shore excursions. Please be sure to bring your personal pin number or security code for your card(s). Prior to your departure, we recommend notifying your bank of your travel plans, so they can inform you of any applicable foreign transaction fees and/or restrictions.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards (Visa/MasterCard/American Express) are accepted in most European shops, hotels and restaurants. Please make sure your credit cards are valid for at least 30 days after you return home and activate them before you travel. Some places may require a minimum charge for using credit cards and others may not accept certain cards, so it’s best to bring more than one. As with your ATM card, we recommend informing your credit card company that you will be traveling abroad, so they can expect overseas charges on your account.
Note: We recommend you bring a chip style credit card and memorize your PIN number as most European countries use chip-and-pin credit cards. Cards with magnetic strips on the back (commonly used in North America) are used less frequently and may not work. You might want to carry some extra cash in your wallet to use in these situations just in case.
Travelers Checks
Travelers Checks can be exchanged for local currency on board in limited amounts (Mexican Travelers Checks, neither $USD or Pesos, are accepted). There may be a foreign transaction fee for this service and daily conversion rates apply.
Settling Your Bill On Board
The day before your river cruise ends, you will receive an invoice for any onboard charges you may have made. Please review it carefully before settling your bill. All onboard charges will be in Euros, payable with cash (Euros) or credit card. Pre-paid charge cards are not accepted. Your credit card company will convert your onboard charges into your home country’s currency at the current exchange rate and service fees may apply. Please note that your onboard charges will not be referenced as "AmaWaterways Los Angeles" on your credit card statement, rather it will list the ship name.
Accessing Public Restrooms
Some public restrooms throughout Europe require a fee for entry (typically between .50 and 1.50 Euro). Your Cruise Manager may have a limited supply of change; however, to ensure you are not left without options, we recommend keeping some small change handy (in local currency) for rest stops while ashore.
During Your River Cruise
During the Cruise
Reception
The ship’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Should you need any assistance, simply stop by anytime or call from your stateroom by dialing 9.
Onboard Language
The official language on board is English. All staff, crew and local guides speak English and all announcements and lectures will be presented in English. Occasionally, a foreign language guide will be aboard for specific groups, but all important onboard communication (spoken or printed) will continue to be presented in English for the benefit of all guests.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted anywhere inside the ship, only at the rear of the Sun Deck. For the safety and comfort of all guests on board, your cooperation in observing the no-smoking policy is greatly appreciated.
Ship Schedule
The ship departs promptly from each port in accordance with its cruising schedule. Safety Cards containing important contact information for the ship and your Cruise Manager are handed out prior to every excursion and will be collected upon return. The ship is unable to delay departure for guests who may not be on board. Unless you are on a shore excursion accompanied by an AmaWaterways guide, it is your responsibility to make your own way to rejoin the ship at a subsequent stop. Without limitation, AmaWaterways is not liable for any costs incurred if you miss the ship’s departure for any reason.
Stateroom Information
Stateroom Information
Entertainment-On-Demand
High-speed Internet and Wi-Fi access make it easy to keep up with the latest news and stay connected with friends and family back home throughout your voyage. Our Entertainment-On-Demand system offers recent Hollywood releases, as well as classic films, travel videos relevant to your destination, English-language news, sports, satellite TV programs and a selection of music channels, all available via your flat-screen TV. If you have questions about navigating the system or accessing the Internet, please contact the reception desk for assistance. Please note the ship’s television reception and Internet operate via satellite and may be temporarily restricted or unclear depending on the ship’s location.
Telephone
Your stateroom has a telephone that may be used to call the reception desk and other staterooms. Please refer to the operating instructions provided. Calls may also be made from ship to shore. Charges will be billed to your onboard account. Please inquire at reception for rates.
Climate Control
Your stateroom is equipped with state-of-the-art fan coil air conditioning units and adjustable climate control. Please refer to the instructions provided or check with the reception desk should you have any questions regarding its use. There is no recirculating of air on board our ships.
Electricity
Electricity on board is 220v with European 2-pin power outlets. You may need a European adapter and/or converter for any electrical appliances you bring with you. Stateroom bathrooms are equipped with electric shaver outlets. You may like to bring with you a multiport USB charger.
Ironing
For safety reasons, the use of travel irons is prohibited on board the ship. Clothes may be pressed for you for an additional fee.
Curling Irons
For safety reasons, the use of your personal curling iron is prohibited on board the ship. A limited number of curling irons are available for guest use at reception.
Bathroom Amenities
Your stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer and spa-quality toiletries, including soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.
Safe
Your stateroom is equipped with a small safe (8 x 16 x 13 in / 20 x 42 x 34 cm) for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room. Oversized items may be stored in the ship’s safe at the reception desk.
Additional Stateroom Amenities
Your stateroom has two sets of robes and slippers, as well as eco-friendly reusable bottles that can be refilled at the water station on board.
Onboard Facilities & Amenities
Onboard Facilities & Amenities
Spa Services
Massage treatments are available on board. Please inquire at the reception desk for a menu of services and to schedule an appointment. Please note, these services are available for a fee and can be paid for in cash or with a credit card at the time of purchase or at the time you settle any of your onboard charges prior to disembarkation from the ship.
Main Lounge
The AmaVida and AmaDouro have a large, comfortably furnished Main Lounge with a full-service bar and dance floor. It’s a place to gather with friends and family, listen to lectures, be entertained and enjoy live music by the onboard pianist who plays every afternoon and evening.
Sun Deck
The AmaVida and AmaDouro feature an expansive Sun Deck offering 360-degree views of the passing scenery. There is a swimming pool and ample sun loungers, tables, chairs and a shaded section where you can read, relax or gaze out at the view. For safety reasons, there may be times when access to the Sun Deck is temporarily restricted, such as when passing through locks and under low bridges.
Swimming Pool
The AmaVida and AmaDouro both offer a swimming pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. There is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is at the sole risk of the user. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the pool.
Fitness Room
The AmaVida and AmaDouro both offer a fitness room with a selection of exercise equipment, as well as towels and bottled water. Please inquire at the reception desk about hours of operation. There is no attendant on duty and use of this equipment is at the sole risk of the user. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during the use of the fitness room.
Bicycles
Each ship carries a limited number of complimentary bicycles and helmets for guests to use whenever the ship is docked. You can explore the riverside bikeways on your own or join a guided bike tour (available in select ports). There is a sign-up sheet to reserve bikes and/or space on guided bike tours. Use of the bicycles is at your own risk and AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained during use.
Nordic Walking Sticks & Folding Cane Seats
A limited number are available on board; please ask reception should you wish to use one.
Gift Shop
The gift shop sells accessories, souvenirs, gifts and a limited selection of toiletries. Opening hours vary according to the itinerary, but the hours are usually from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily except on embarkation and disembarkation days.
Ice Machine
For your convenience, an ice bucket is provided in your stateroom. Ice is available from the bar or a self-service ice machine.
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. To access the ship's secure Wi-Fi on your personal device (such as a laptop, tablet or cell phone), you simply choose the shipname@Guest network and agree on the terms and conditions. Please note, the ship's Internet service operates via GSM networks similar to your mobile phone with Satellite as a back-up and may be temporarily restricted or unclear depending on the ship's location.
Key Cards
At check-in your photo will be taken, this is registered within our onboard computer system, and synchronized to your magnetic key card. This key card is used for onboard purchases, entering and exiting the ship and for your stateroom.
Laundry & Ironing
Onboard laundry service and ironing is available for an additional fee. A price list is provided in your stateroom. Please note dry cleaning is not available during your cruise.
Mail
Stamps and postcards are available at the reception desk and mail is sent out from port each day. We offer a selection of complimentary AmaWaterways branded postcards. These can be found at the reception desk or near the library. The reception desk staff is happy to stamp and mail these AmaWaterways branded postcards for you free of charge. Stamps are also available for purchase.
Printer
Each ship is equipped with a dedicated laser printer for printing airline boarding passes. You may send the print job from your stateroom computer. Please ask the reception desk for information about the printer.
Additional Onboard Commentary
On very select rivers and itineraries the Personal Audio Device used for shore excursions can also be used for additional commentary while cruising. This is pre-recorded commentary that plays through the device, based on your current GPS location. Your Cruise Manager will explain more when applicable.
Medical Facilities
There are no onboard medical facilities. Medical assistance can easily be called from shore if required. If medical services are required, such assistance is the financial responsibility of the guest.
Onboard Dining
Onboard Dining
Onboard Dining
All onboard meals are included in your cruise fare. All meals are served a la carte. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a choice of delicious entrées, including a vegetarian option. All meals are skillfully prepared by European chefs and consist of continental cuisine made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
Beverages
Water on board is potable and we also restock the drinking water in your stateroom on a daily basis. Specialty coffees and teas are available free of charge any time of day and night in the Main Lounge. At lunch and dinner, fine wines, beer, soft drinks and specialty coffees and teas are available on an unlimited and complimentary basis. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are also available outside of mealtimes for an additional charge.
Special Diets
Please let us know prior to your departure date if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your request with the resources available to us.
Onboard Crew
Onboard Crew
Captain
The ship’s highly qualified and licensed Captain was carefully selected for his/her vast knowledge of the European waterways, attention to safety and ability to command the ship and crew.
Cruise Manager
Specifically selected for their knowledge, experience and friendly personalities, AmaWaterways Cruise Managers are resourceful, well-traveled and multilingual travel professionals. They are responsible for coordinating all daily activities both on and off the ship.
Hotel Manager
The ship’s Hotel Manager oversees all hotel operations on board, including the dining room, reception and housekeeping.
Ship Crew
All AmaWaterways crewmembers, from the nautical crew to stateroom stewards, are thoroughly trained to ensure you enjoy the best vacation possible.
Shore Excursions
Shore Excursions
Please note: Due to uneven terrain, a lack of handicap amenities, and a fair amount of stairs, our Portugal itineraries are not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
Sightseeing Shore Excursions
As you have varied tastes, we have developed a selection of included small-group shore excursions in every port of call. These excursions may be on foot, via motorcoach or a combination of both. Each shore excursion is led by a qualified English-speaking local escorts. In most locations you can also choose your activity level: gentle or regular pace tours.
Hiking Excursions
You have the option to explore the beautiful Douro River Valley more actively with guided hikes.
Personal Audio “Quietvox” Device
We will provide you with a sophisticated, lightweight audio headset device to take along on shore excursions, so you never have to miss a word of your guide’s insightful commentary.
Motorcoach Safety
For your safety, please remain seated with your seatbelt fastened at all times. We strongly advise against using the onboard washroom while in motion, please be advised that doing so will be at your own risk. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any injuries sustained for failing to heed these safety precautions. Carry-on bags, purses and other bulky items should be safely stowed in the overhead luggage racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Please do not stow heavy items overhead. Take a moment to note all emergency exits and please be careful whenever entering and exiting the motorcoach.
Daily Cruiser Newsletter
The Daily Cruiser is available within our convenient myAmaCruise app, which can be downloaded prior to your sailing on the App Store and Google Play. You may request to receive a paper copy of The Daily Cruiser if you would prefer to have a physical copy, we recommend having a form of the Daily Cruiser on hand, as it contains the ship’s docking address, All Aboard times and your Cruise Manager’s and ship telephone numbers.
Water Levels
In the event of fluctuating water levels on certain stretches of the river, it may be necessary to operate part of your planned itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the daily program as determined by the ship’s Captain.
Recommended Gratuities
Recommended Gratuities
A Word About Gratuities
Although we leave gratuities to your discretion, many of our guests have asked
for general tipping guidelines. Gratuities may be charged on a credit card or
given in cash.
Ship’s Crew: The entire amount will be divided equally
amongst all crew members. Recommendation: 100 Euros per cruise, per guest.
Cruise Manager: Your Cruise Manager is not part of the ship’s
crew and is the AmaWaterways representative who also accompanies you on any
pre- and/or post-cruise hotel/land extensions you may have booked.
Recommendation: 30 Euros per cruise, per guest; 4 Euros for each additional
day, per guest for pre- and post-cruise hotel/land extensions.
When tipping the ship’s crew, the entire amount will be divided equally
amongst all crew members. Please note your Cruise Manager is not part of the
ship’s crew and is the AmaWaterways representative who also accompanies you on
any pre- and/or post-cruise hotel/land packages you may have booked.
Contact Information
Contact Information
Your final travel documents contain important phone numbers and other information you may need during your vacation.
Please refer to the phone numbers below and/or on your travel documents and advise the ship of any delays or changes to your schedule. If for any reason you require assistance, our representatives are at your service.
AmaWaterways Headquarters
1-800-626-0126 or 1-818-428-6198
Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Pacific Standard Time
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time
EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
In the event of a travel emergency please use the following number:
1-747-251-0911
Emergency email address: emergency@amawaterways.com (Please put “EMERGENCY”
in the subject line of your email.) Our Emergency email is monitored 24 hours a day.
Helpful Calling Information
Calling Europe from the US and Canada:
- Dial the US/CAN long distance code 011
- Dial the country code (such as 41 for Switzerland)
- Dial the area code (drop the leading zero)
- Dial the number
Common Calling Questions
Yes. When dialing to any European country from another country, drop the leading zero in the area code. When dialing from within a European country to the same country, dial the leading zero.
European phone numbers are frequently written in the format +44 07981 555555. The plus indicates you have to dial your long distance code first (in the US or Canada the code is 011, in Europe it is 00).
Calling the US and Canada from Europe:
- Dial the Europe long distance code 00
- Dial the country code (1 for the US and Canada, 44 for the UK)
- Dial the area code and number
For example:
To dial this Swiss phone number while in Switzerland, enter the following: 061 639 6080
Hotel Contact Information
Hotel Contact Information
LISBON: InterContinental Lisbon
Rua Castilho, 149
1099-034 Lisbon, Portugal
Tel: +351 (0) 21 381 87 00, Fax: +351 (0) 21 389 05 00
LISBON: Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon
Rua Rodrigo da Fonseca, 88
1099-039 Lisbon, Portugal
Tel: +351 (0) 21 381 14 00, Fax: +351 (0) 21 383 17 83
MADRID: The Westin Palace, Madrid
Plaza de las Cortes, 7
28014 Madrid, Spain
Tel: +34 (0) 91 360 80 00, Fax: +34 (0) 91 360 81 00
PORTO: The Yeatman Hotel
Rua do Choupelo (Santa Marinha)
4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal
Tel: +351 (0) 220 133 100; Fax: +351 (0) 220 133 199
Ship Contact Information
Ship Contact Information
AmaVida Ship Contact Number
+351 926 78 1512
AmaDouro Ship Contact Number
+351 924 007 279