A luxury cruise line became the first U.S. based cruise line to resume river cruises in Europe.
AmaWaterways resumed operations in Europe with a series of charter sailings on AmaKristina. The cruise line warmly welcomed guests while implementing the newly enhanced health and safety protocols on board its award-winning ships.
AmaWaterways’ new procedures reflect the in-depth recommendations contained within the EU Healthy Gateways guidelines, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), IG RiverCruise and other official authorities.
The health and safety protocols are aimed to protect guests’ and crew members’ wellbeing while delivering the warm and friendly experience for which AmaWaterways is known. Based on current regulations, pre-boarding health questionnaires are required, and guests and crew are both subject to daily temperature checks. The crew has received in-depth updated training and each ship will have a designated Public Health Officer overseeing the application of these specific protocols.
While AmaWaterways’ state-of-the-art ships are spacious in their own right — normally accommodating just 150 guests — current regulations limit all river cruise ships to a maximum of 100 guests on board. Crews are required to wear face coverings at all times while guests must wear them only while moving around the ship. With capacity currently capped, the spacious Main restaurant and the included specialty restaurant, The Chef’s Table, easily accommodate the safe distances now required.
New room service options have also been added. In addition, AmaWaterways has incorporated creative ways to accommodate social distancing not only in its lounge areas, with plexiglass dividers, but also with personal portable Quietvox commentary systems to allow guests to hear guides while social distancing during the included small-group shore excursions – many of which involve outdoor hiking and biking tours.
Furthermore, AmaWaterways’ ships have been designed with fan coil individual air cooling and heating units, which eliminate any recirculation of air in staterooms or in public areas; and nearly all staterooms include fresh air balconies, letting guests relax there or on the ships’ spacious Sun Decks as they enjoy stunning views along the river.
