AmaWaterways is adding two new river ships to its fleet in 2026, with AmaKaia for the Mekong River and AmaSofia for Europe’s Rhine and Danube rivers.
With an expected launch date of 24 May 2026, AmaSofia will be the cruise line’s 24th ship to sail on Europe’s most popular rivers. AmaSofia’s inaugural 14-night itinerary follows the route of emperors, kings and queens as it journeys between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guests will sail on three rivers through four countries on an immersive exploration of local culture, history, foods and traditions.
Highlights include guided bike rides through scenic vineyards and small towns, visits to a pretzel bakery, tours of numerous castles and palaces, culinary tours, and deep dives into many of the region’s most historic cities. The custom-designed luxury AmaSofia will have 31 departures in 2026, featuring multiple itineraries on the Danube, such as Melodies of the Danube, Romantic Danube, and the popular Christmas Markets on the Danube.
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AmaKaia is expected to embark on its first seven-night itinerary on 3 August 2026. The ship will unlock the ancient cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia and guests will enjoy regional delicacies, a wide range of daily included excursions, local onboard entertainment, and luxury amenities. Exploration opportunities include traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) rides, visits to local workshops and monasteries, a Buddhist Blessing Ceremony, and learning about the region’s histories from those who taught it and, in many cases, lived it. The two seven-night itineraries, Charms of the Mekong and Riches of the Mekong both offer guests a unique blend of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
AmaKaia will join AmaDara on the Mekong, which launched in 2015. The newbuild will operate 22 sailings in 2026 and upwards of 38 in 2027. Land extensions are available in several cities including Siem Reap, home of the world’s largest religious structure, Angkor Wat.s, including hiking, biking and special interest tours, high-quality Wi-Fi, a Wellness Program with a variety of host-led fitness classes, airport transfers, and much more.
“We’re excited about the announcement of these two new ships,” Steve Richards, Managing Director Australia and New Zealand said. “They’ll be sailing on rivers and itineraries that are proving popular with our local market since our launch a few months ago, so we’ll be in a position to meet the increasing demand of Australian and New Zealand travellers on the Rhine, Main, Danube and Mekong Rivers.”
Specifics on the size and capacity of either ship was not released by AmaWaterways.
Cruising with AmaWaterways includes fine dining in multiple venues, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks, a daily variety of small group excursion
