Cruising has long been a popular option for family vacations, offering unparalleled convenience. There’s no constant packing and unpacking, lugging bags through train stations, or figuring out a daily itinerary. The ease and simplicity of cruising are what make it such an appealing choice for travelers of all ages.
But still, many families overlook river cruising as a viable option. Traditional river ships weren’t designed with families in mind. But times are changing. New ships now feature connecting staterooms, as well as triple and quad cabins, making river cruising more accessible for families, including those with younger children.
AmaWaterways, A Family-Friendly Option
I vividly remember my first river cruise at age 14, sailing the Mekong with AmaWaterways. Surprisingly, I wasn’t even the youngest passenger onboard – there were two other children, ages seven and nine, cruising through Vietnam and Cambodia with their parents. While some might find the idea of river cruising with young children unusual, their parents shared how the journey was both educational and memorable. They emphasized that the trip provided their children with experiences and insights they would treasure for a lifetime. For me, it did the same.
Family-owned and operated AmaWaterways not only allows children onboard, but also encourages children to river cruise. Young travelers from the age of four and up are welcome aboard any AmaWaterways sailing in Europe, though it is important to note that there are no children’s programs, and there will be no child specific entertainment.
If your children thrive on structured activities and constant engagement, a river cruise without a dedicated kids’ program may not be the best fit. On the other hand, if your family enjoys exploring new destinations together, AmaWaterways’ offerings are exceptional.
Entertainment & Excursions
AmaWaterways makes a conscious effort to create excursions and activities that appeal to a wider range of interests. In nearly every port, active excursions such as biking or hiking are offered, along with more traditional walking tours. Plus, AmaWaterways provides a fleet of bikes that passengers can check out at any time, making family bike rides along the riverside a fun and accessible option.
Evenings onboard also feature family-friendly entertainment, usually in the form of live music or cultural performances. Whether it’s a local dance troupe or a vocalist bringing the region’s heritage to life, these performances are enjoyable for all ages.
For families seeking child-specific sailings, AmaWaterways partners with Adventures by Disney for select itineraries. These cruises include enriching and exciting activities like tobogganing during Christmas market sailings, zip-lining in the Black Forest, and baking classes in France. Adventure Guides, trained Disney professionals, are there to facilitate these activities, ensuring both parents and kids have an engaging and educational experience. It’s worth noting that this is not Disney Cruise Line; you won’t find Mickey Mouse onboard. Instead, Adventures by Disney offers a boutique, high-quality experience with a focus on cultural immersion and family bonding.
Accommodations
Triple cabins include a sleeper chair, while quad cabins add a convertible sofa. These rooms are comfortable and functional, allowing families to stay together without feeling cramped. For those with larger families, adjoining cabins can create a shared space that comfortably accommodates five.
In the video above, you can see cabin 211 on AmaViola. Though this is not a triple cabin, it adjoins to the triple cabin next to it, making the combination able to accommodate five people.
Is River Cruising Right For Your Family?
River cruising may not suit every family, especially those with younger children who need constant entertainment. But for families looking to create meaningful travel experiences, AmaWaterways offers an exceptional option. With active excursions, culturally rich entertainment, and the option to partner with Adventures by Disney, AmaWaterways provides opportunities for kids to explore Europe in unique and memorable ways. Speaking from personal experience, river cruising has the power to create lasting memories that your family will treasure forever. I know for experience. I’ve been cruising since I was 10 months old, and I’ve never looked back.
This article was originally published at River Cruise Advisor.
