AmaWaterways

AmaKristina

Overview

0
Gross Tonnage
156
Guest Capacity
2017
Year Built
2017
Last Refit
3.06
Crew Ratio

Launched in 2017 and named in honor of Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, the AmaKristina brings a sophisticated and intimate river cruising experience to life. Specifically designed for voyages along the scenic Rhône River, connecting the captivating cities of Lyon and Avignon, it offers a harmonious blend of luxury and a laid-back atmosphere. The ship's design facilitates a memorable journey for up to 156 guests, creating an environment that's both inviting and refined. With a dedicated crew of 51, AmaKristina boasts a passenger-to-crew ratio of 3.06:1, underlining its dedication to providing attentive service in a relaxed setting, reminiscent of a sojourn at a close friend's estate.

The AmaKristina showcases elegance in design, featuring dual dining options, a heated pool on the top deck, and 25 bicycles for guests to explore ports, epitomizing the balance between indulgence and an active lifestyle. Innovations such as acoustic panels in the dining area and cleverly disguised safety gear not only fulfill practical needs but also contribute to the ship’s aesthetic appeal and guest experience. The staterooms, nearly 90% of which boast balconies, are adorned with luxurious furnishings and equipped with modern amenities, including Apple iMac computers, ensuring guests have everything they need for an enjoyable stay.

Culinary experiences aboard the AmaKristina are exceptional, with menus frequently showcasing local delicacies from the Rhine region, prepared with fresh ingredients and elegantly served, encapsulating a truly remarkable dining experience.

Aiming at a more mature audience, particularly those aged 55 and above primarily from the United States and Canada, the AmaKristina appeals to both long-time ocean cruisers venturing into river cruising for the first time, and loyal repeat guests of AmaWaterways. The ship bridges the calm of traditional river cruising with engaging activities, offering wine tours and Adventures by Disney, thus attracting a slightly younger crowd or families seeking a rich, engaging journey.

Distinguished by its complimentary excursions, the AmaKristina offers a wide array of activities from standard tours to unique local experiences, such as beer tastings and adventurous biking and hiking expeditions. Its smaller size promises a personal service quality that` stands out from larger, more impersonal cruise lines. While delivering exceptional value with amenities like complimentary internet and inclusive excursions, it caters less to those in search of vibrant nightlife, given the limited entertainment options onboard.

In conclusion, the AmaKristina stands as a premier choice for travelers looking for an upscale, serene cruise experience that focuses on exceptional service, fine dining, and incorporating both local culture and active adventures. It is particularly appealing to mature travelers, couples, and families eager for a culturally deep and leisurely-paced exploration through Europe’s most stunning waterways.

Pros

  • Expansive onboard activities, including a heated top-deck pool and bicycles for port exploration.
  • Nearly 90% of staterooms have balconies, enhancing the scenic cruise experience.
  • Exceptional cuisine featuring local specialties from the Rhine region in two complimentary eateries.
  • Innovative design elements like wavy ceilings in dining areas that double as sound panels for a quieter dining experience.

Cons

  • Limited nighttime entertainment options could leave passengers seeking more.
  • Lack of onboard medical facility could be a concern for passengers with health issues.
  • No children-specific facilities or programs, limiting appeal for families with young cruisers.
  • While offering free excursions, some may find the standard options less thrilling compared to additional cost excursions.

Tips

  • Book a balcony room to fully enjoy the scenic sailing days, especially through picturesque areas.
  • Take advantage of the free bicycles for a different perspective of the ports you visit.
  • Plan to book your spot at The Chef's Table early on in the cruise for a unique culinary experience.
  • For those sensitive to noise, inquire about dining in areas of the restaurant with enhanced sound dampening.
  • Engage with the free walking tours grouped by physical ability - an excellent way to explore without feeling rushed.
  • Keep your evening schedules light; after a day of excursions, the limited entertainment might be all you're up for.
  • Use the ship's complimentary umbrellas and walking sticks for comfort and safety during onshore excursions.
  • If you appreciate solitude, find time for the pool when it's not peak hours for a serene experience.
  • Leverage the room's Apple iMac for entertainment and staying connected during your journey.
  • Pack smart-casual attire for dining; while the atmosphere is relaxed, evenings are a notch dressier.