🛳️ AmaWaterways vs Viking: What’s the Real Difference?

If you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole of planning a European river cruise, chances are you’ve seen the same two names come up over and over: AmaWaterways and Viking. They’re two of the biggest names in the river cruise world—and while both offer scenic itineraries and bucket-list-worthy journeys, they are not created equal.

As someone who’s actually sailed with both (and has clients cruising with them year-round), I’m here to break it down for you—so you don’t have to spend hours analyzing every deck plan and review forum.

Spoiler alert: I have a favorite. But let’s start with the facts.

🧭 The Quick Overview

• Viking: The brand name you’ve seen in every commercial. Their ships are sleek and Scandi-chic, and they have the largest fleet on Europe’s rivers.

• AmaWaterways: A family-owned company focused on immersive experiences, exceptional service, and a more personal, upscale approach.

Both are solid—but depending on your style, one may be way better than the other.

🚢 Ship Size + Vibe

Viking sails with about 190 guests per ship. The vibe is minimal, a bit more corporate, and tends to skew toward older, quieter travelers. There’s less variation between ships—they all feel the same.

AmaWaterways limits their ships to about 156 guests—even though they’re roughly the same size. That means more space per guest, more crew attention, and a calmer onboard experience. Their newer ships feel boutique and intentional (hello, twin balconies and sunny lounges).

My take: If you care about breathing room, onboard energy, or sailing with a mix of ages (especially 40s–60s), Ama wins.

🛏️ Cabin Comfort + Options

Viking’s entry-level rooms are... tight. Like, no-balcony, waterline-level tight. Upgrade and you’ll get a French balcony or small veranda, but options beyond that are limited.

AmaWaterways offers a wider range of cabin types, and many ships have both a French balcony and full veranda in the same room. Their suites are more spacious and better designed for actual lounging—not just sleeping.

My take: If you’re doing a bucket list trip (like summer vineyards in Portugal or sailing the Nile River in Egypt) and want to actually enjoy your cabin, Ama’s cabin variety is a big plus.

🍷 Dining + Drinks

Viking includes wine and beer with lunch and dinner, but you’ll pay extra for cocktails or anything outside of those hours.

AmaWaterways includes a daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour, local wines and beers, and regionally inspired cuisine at every meal. Oh—and they’re members of the exclusive La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, meaning their food game is chef’s kiss.

My take: If you’re a foodie or enjoy trying local wine without worrying about the bill, Ama comes out ahead.

🧭 Included Tours + Activities

Viking includes one daily large group walking tour, typically a gentle overview of the city. Alternate tours are available at additional cost.

AmaWaterways includes multiple daily tour options: active, regular, and gentle-paced. You can bike through vineyards, explore the city, hike to castles, or take guided tastings depending on the day. There is an emphasis on AmaWaterways to keep all groups to less than 20 passengers to ensure a more personal experience.

My take: Ama offers way more choice—perfect if you like the idea of mixing activity levels or exploring beyond the basics.

🤝 Service + Personal Touch

Viking is efficient. Polished. Consistent. You’ll get what you expect.

AmaWaterways service is polished and personal. Onboard staff remember your name, your drink order, and your anniversary. The co-owners (yes, the actual founders!) sometimes greet guests personally on certain sailings.

🏳️‍🌈 LGBTQ+ & Group Friendly

Viking is fine—but not particularly warm or inclusive unless you’re in a very heteronormative demographic.

AmaWaterways welcomes everyone like family and handle every detail with genuine care. I’ve hosted groups on Ama before and they make it so easy. (Though I have a different favorite cruise line for my LGBTQ+ family)

✨ My Pick: AmaWaterways

When I’m planning something special for a couple, a family, or a group—I choose AmaWaterways 9 times out of 10. Their ships feel more personal, the service is more heartfelt, and the whole experience is just… better.

It’s not about the flashiest brand name. It’s about the kind of experience that sticks with you long after you’ve unpacked your bags.

Ready to Sail?

Still unsure which line is right for you? That’s what I’m here for. Whether you’re planning your first river cruise or your fifth, I’ll help match you with the perfect itinerary, line, and ship—without the guesswork.

📅 Click here to book a free planning call
📩 Or shoot me a message to chat about your 2026 travel goals @ explore@travelwithasia.com