Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Which River Cruise Line is Right for You?

If you’ve been researching European river cruises, you’ve probably come across Viking and AmaWaterways, two of the most well-known and respected names in the industry. Both offer exceptional experiences, but they do things a little differently.

So, which one is the right fit for you? The truth is, there’s no bad choice, but there are differences that might make one line a better match for your travel style, budget, and expectations. As a travel advisor specializing in river cruising, I help match travelers to the perfect river cruise experience based on what they’re looking for.

Let’s explore the key differences between Viking and AmaWaterways, so you can get a better sense of which one aligns with your travel preferences.

AmaWaterways' AmaMagna docked in Passau, Germany

Ship Design & Onboard Atmosphere

Both Viking and AmaWaterways operate beautiful, well-designed river ships, but their onboard atmospheres are distinct.

• Viking ships are sleek, modern, and Scandinavian-inspired, with neutral tones, open spaces, and a calm, refined ambiance. Think of it like a stylish boutique hotel where relaxation and cultural enrichment are the focus.

• AmaWaterways ships are slightly smaller and designed with a more intimate, boutique feel. The onboard atmosphere is warmer and livelier, with a more social vibe thanks to their Sip & Sail cocktail hour, live music, and more active onboard culture.

If you love clean, minimalist design and a quieter atmosphere, Viking may be the better choice. If you enjoy a slightly more intimate and social setting, AmaWaterways offers that.

Cabins & Accommodations

Both cruise lines offer comfortable, well-appointed staterooms, but there are a few key differences between the two.

• Viking cabins tend to be slightly larger on average, with well-designed layouts and floor-to-ceiling windows.

• AmaWaterways offers their signature “twin balcony” cabins—which means you get both a French balcony and a step-out balcony, giving you more flexibility in enjoying the views.

• Traveling as a family? Viking is adults-only (18+), while AmaWaterways welcomes families and offers triple-occupancy and interconnecting rooms on select ships.

If you’re traveling as a couple or solo traveler, both are excellent options. If you need more flexible room configurations or want to travel with children or grandchildren, AmaWaterways is a better fit.

Viking ships are known for their sleek, minimalist design

Culinary Experience: A Focus on Regional Excellence

Both Viking and AmaWaterways take great pride in their culinary offerings, ensuring that guests enjoy high-quality, locally inspired meals while cruising through Europe’s most scenic regions.

• Viking offers an elegant, refined dining experience, featuring dishes inspired by the destinations you visit. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and guests can enjoy regional specialties alongside familiar classics. Beer and wine are included with lunch and dinner, and there’s always an option for a more traditional meal if you prefer something simple.

• AmaWaterways is known for its culinary excellence and is the only major river cruise line inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a prestigious French culinary society that recognizes outstanding gastronomy. They also offer The Chef’s Table, a multi-course specialty tasting menu available at no extra charge.

If you enjoy classic European cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients, Viking does it exceptionally well. If you love an elevated, gourmet experience with a focus on culinary excellence, AmaWaterways has a slight edge.

AmaWaterways is especially known for world-class cuisine

Excursions & Onshore Experiences

One of the biggest differences between these two lines is how excursions are handled and what’s included in the fare.

• Viking includes one guided excursion per day, typically a walking tour or panoramic coach tour in each destination. More immersive or active excursions—such as wine tastings, castle hikes, or cycling tours—are available but often cost extra.

  
  

• AmaWaterways includes nearly all excursions in the base fare, with multiple activity levels and options each day. Guests can choose from classic guided tours, active excursions like biking and hiking, and special immersive experiences like vineyard visits—all without paying extra.

If you prefer a structured sightseeing experience, Viking is an excellent choice. If you want more flexibility and included options, AmaWaterways offers a better overall value.

Onboard Entertainment & Social Atmosphere

Evenings on a river cruise are quieter than on ocean ships, but there are still ways to enjoy your time onboard.

• Viking keeps things elegant and subdued, offering guest lectures, cultural performances, and classical music in the evenings.

  
  

• AmaWaterways has a more social, lively feel, with live music, local entertainers, and their signature Sip & Sail cocktail hour before dinner.

If you prefer a quieter evening atmosphere, Viking is a great fit. If you enjoy a bit more energy and social engagement, I would say AmaWaterways is a slightly better choice.

Pricing & Value Considerations

When comparing costs, it’s important to look beyond just the base fare and consider what’s included:

• Viking’s upfront pricing is often slightly lower, but excursions beyond the standard walking tours often come with an added cost.

• AmaWaterways’ pricing includes more variety of excursions (biking, hiking, wine tastings), so while the base fare may be slightly higher, you’re getting more included activities. AmaWaterways also includes amenities like wellness programs, Sip & Sail cocktail hour, and The Chef’s Table—all of which add extra value.

Both cruise lines offer excellent experiences, but depending on your travel style, one may feel like a better overall value than the other.

Which Cruise Line is Right for You?

At the end of the day, both Viking and AmaWaterways deliver fantastic river cruise experiences—it just depends on what you’re looking for.

Viking might be the best fit if you:

• Prefer a calm, refined, and structured river cruise experience

• Enjoy history-focused excursions with expert-led walking tours

• Like a sleek, minimalist onboard atmosphere

• Are okay with paying extra for additional excursions

AmaWaterways might be the best fit if you:

• Want more included excursions, with active options like hiking and biking

• Enjoy a livelier onboard atmosphere with music, social events, and cocktail hours

• Are traveling with family, kids, or a multi-generational group

• Appreciate award-winning cuisine and fine dining

A Viking ship cruises the Rhine River

Not Sure Which River Cruise is Right for You?

Viking and AmaWaterways both offer exceptional experiences, but the details matter. The right choice depends on your personal preferences, travel style, and what you want out of your river cruise.

As a travel advisor specializing in river cruises, I help match travelers with the best river cruise for their needs—whether that’s Viking, AmaWaterways, or another line entirely.

Let’s chat about your travel goals, and I’ll make sure you get the right fit. Click HERE to learn more about me and my free services.

Have you received your free copy of my 22-page comprehensive River Cruise Guide, Smooth Sailing? It’s packed with expert insights, itinerary recommendations, and essential tips to help you plan the perfect river cruise. Download your free copy today.

Emma Guse is a River Cruise Specialist with Travelmation, helping solo travelers, couples, families, and groups plan unforgettable river cruises with ease. Known for her down-to-earth style and expert guidance, she handles the details so you can focus on making memories.

Emma's services are 100% complimentary and included in the base rates of every river cruise line. Learn more about Emma HERE or submit an inquiry HERE.