AmaWaterways and Backroads have announced a lineup of more than 120 Danube, Douro, Rhine and Seine departures in 2019 and 2020, including nine full-ship charters and select sailings on board AmaWaterways’ newest ship, AmaMagna. Marking their fourth year of partnership, the companies are also introducing select “expanded capacity” sailings, which will bring together more than 60 fellow Backroads cycling enthusiasts on board a single ship, providing for a larger active community and more riding companions.
In 2019, Backroads will offer a total of 68 departures—some tailored specifically for couples, families or solo travelers—including bike tours along Europe’s Danube, Douro, Rhine and Seine Rivers and walking tours along the Douro River. In order to meet the growing demand within the active vacation segment, Backroads has announced 73 total departures for 2020 with six full-ship charters and additional group sailings on AmaMagna. Backroads groups make up a subset of AmaWaterways guests on board, with the typical group size averaging around 26 guests.
The full-ship charter—otherwise known as the Full Ship Celebration River Cruise—will be available for two departures on the Danube and one on the Douro in 2019 (including departures for Families with Older Teens & 20s), and three on the Danube and three on the Douro in 2020. During these cruises, 100 to 150 biking enthusiasts will come together on one of the largest active group tours in the world.
Every Backroads river cruise trip includes the same quality experience as traditional Backroads adventures and include four or more expert Trip Leaders on ship and on shore, dedicated support vans and innovative itineraries with a choice of cycling and walking routes for all abilities. Backroads bike tours also include custom titanium bikes for all rider types—performance, touring and electric-assist—and include fully loaded GPS routes.
Backroads will also host several departures on board AmaMagna. Set to debut in May 2019 and measuring nearly twice the width of a traditional European river cruise ship, it allows for added personal space in the large suites (the majority are 355 square feet or larger), additional dining venues, and new amenities, such as the Zen Wellness Studio.
Travelers interested in booking 2019 or 2020 river cruise departures will enjoy signature twin balconies in most staterooms, as well as connecting and triple occupancy staterooms (well-suited for multi-generational travel groups). Additional amenities include a daily “Sip & Sail” complimentary cocktail hour, heated Sun Deck pools with swim-up bar or whirlpool, hair and massage salons, fitness centers, Wellness Hosts and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ships.
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