AmaWaterways has announced its most ambitious expansion to date, growing its global fleet to more than 50 ships by 2032, with 15 new ships in Europe and more than 60% capacity growth beyond the region, including new ships in Africa and Asia.
*All details correct at time of publish (15 April 2026)
This builds on a fleet of 31 ships currently in operation, with three new ships already announced for 2027 across the Rhine, Danube and Mekong.
In Europe, AmaWaterways has confirmed eight new ships and is now adding seven more, including one in Portugal, reflecting sustained demand across its core markets.
The company is also strengthening its presence in Africa with one additional ship on the Chobe River and two new ships on the Nile in Egypt, with one set to debut in 2026.
“Our expansion reflects strong demand across both our established and emerging markets,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways.
“River cruising is on a clear growth trajectory, and we are investing with purpose, expanding our global footprint while continuing to elevate the experience for our guests and our travel partners.”
As part of this growth trajectory, AmaWaterways will introduce multiple new ships each year across both established and emerging regions, including:
- AmaNubia, debuting in September 2026 on the Nile, joining AmaDahlia and AmaLilia, with 38 staterooms inspired by Egyptian artistry and textures.
- AmaRudi, debuting in 2027 as the line’s second double-width ship on the Danube, following AmaMagna, accommodating 196 guests across 98 staterooms and redefining space and comfort on the river.
- AmaMaya, also launching in 2027 on the Mekong, featuring 60 staterooms, in line with the AmaWaterways’ current Mekong ship, AmaDara. The design draws on Indochine heritage, interpreted through a contemporary and balanced approach that reflects the region.
- AmaFiora, debuting in 2027 on the Rhine, following the design and layout of AmaSofia, with 76 staterooms in total.
- AmaClara, debuting in 2028 on the Rhône in France, following the design and layout of AmaKristina, with 76 staterooms in total.
- AmaGaia, debuting in 2028 on the Douro in Portugal alongside AmaVida, AmaDouro and AmaSintra, in response to strong and growing demand for river cruising in Portugal.
- AmaCleo, debuting in 2028 on the Nile, expanding AmaWaterways’ presence in Egypt alongside AmaDahlia, AmaLilia and AmaNubia.
In addition, AmaWaterways is advancing plans for further growth in Africa, including a second ship on the Chobe River alongside the Zambezi Queen.
AmaWaterways offers one of the most inclusive and elevated experiences in river cruising, delivering exceptional value through a thoughtfully curated range of amenities and services included in every journey.
Guests enjoy spacious accommodations and all onboard meals, including speciality dining at The Chef’s Table, as well as wine and beer with lunch and dinner and during the Sip & Sail cocktail hour, complimentary Wi-Fi, a wide choice of daily guided shore excursions led by expert local guides, and the dedicated services of a professional Cruise Manager throughout the experience.
This industry-leading offering has been further enhanced with a series of recent upgrades. Guests can now enjoy more than 30 included red, white and rosé wines on every sailing.
Culinary experiences have been expanded with new Italian lunches in The Chef’s Table, signature dinners by Culinary Director Chef Robert Kellerhals, and the introduction of “Savour at The Lark,” a new all-day dining concept served in the ship’s lounges, offering even greater flexibility and choice for guests.
Pre- and post-cruise land packages extend the experience beyond the river, with stays at 4- and 5-star hotels, daily breakfast, guided tours and immersive local experiences, seamless transfers between airport, hotel and ship, and portage services.
AmaWaterways’ dedicated Cruise Managers accompany guests throughout their pre- and post-cruise stays, a rare added level of service that ensures a seamless and fully supported experience from start to finish.
This expansion comes at a time of exceptional momentum for AmaWaterways, driven by strong repeat rates, outstanding guest satisfaction and sustained demand across North America, Europe and emerging markets.
The company is one of the most awarded river cruise lines in the industry, supported by a highly loyal base of returning guests and travel partners who remain at the heart of its success.
With significant and sustained investment across its fleet and guest experience, AmaWaterways is actively shaping the future of river cruising on a global scale.
More details on upcoming ships and offerings will be shared in the coming months. For more information, visit www.amawaterways.com.
