Isobel’s trip along the Romantic Danube with AmaWaterways!

I was lucky enough to join AmaWaterways for a four-night sailing on their Romantic Danube
itinerary, departing on the 8th of November. Travelling from Vilshofen to Vienna, the journey
offered a perfect blend of scenic cruising, charming towns, and cultural experiences, all wrapped
in the early signs of the festive season. With crisp autumn air, peaceful riverbanks, and
beautifully decorated towns, it was an ideal time to explore this iconic stretch of the Danube.

Day 1: A Warm Bavarian Welcome in Vilshofen

Boarding the ship in Vilshofen was smooth, friendly and entirely stress-free. As soon as we
arrived, one of the attentive crew members personally showed us to our stateroom – no risk
of getting lost on board! The welcome felt warm and personal from the very beginning.

Shortly after settling in, we gathered in the lounge where the Cruise Manager introduced
himself and his team, setting the tone for the journey ahead. It was clear from the outset that
we were in good hands – their enthusiasm and genuine hospitality came through immediately.

That evening, as we stepped outside, the experience became even more special. Each guest
was handed a single red rose by the Captain before being led to a private Oktoberfest
celebration on the dockside. Under a traditional Bavarian tent, we enjoyed live music from a
local oompah band, glasses of German beer, and warm pretzels fresh from the oven. The
atmosphere was festive and joyful – the perfect start to a relaxed and enriching few days ahead.

Back on board, dinner that evening set a high standard. Beautifully presented, regionally
inspired, and expertly paired with wine, it was the first of many culinary highlights to come.

Day 2: Vilshofen to Passau – Wellness, Wandering and Waterways

The morning began with a wellness walk led by Andjela, the onboard Wellness Host. A small
group joined her for a peaceful stroll through Vilshofen’s quiet, cobbled streets. The fresh air
and stillness offered a wonderful way to ease into the day.

By lunchtime, the ship had begun its elegant glide towards Passau, where three rivers — the
Danube, Inn and Ilz — meet. Upon arrival, guests were invited to join a guided walking tour of
the old town, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Stories of medieval merchants, Baroque
buildings and hidden alleyways were shared, all while meandering through streets steeped in
history.

After returning to the ship, dinner was served as the lights of Passau flickered.. The evening
was spent sailing onwards towards Linz, with the calm of the river and the rhythm of the water
setting the tone for a restful night.

Day 3: Linz – Local Flavours and Festive Transformations

Today’s itinerary offered a choice between two immersive full-day excursions: a visit to
Salzburg, known for Mozart and The Sound of Music, or the fairy-tale charm of Český
Krumlov, just across the Czech border. Both were tempting, but I chose to stay local — and I’m
so glad I did.

The morning began with a guided walking tour of Linz, Austria’s third-largest city. Our guide
brought the town’s blend of old and new to life, pointing out Baroque buildings, bustling squares,
and hidden gems. After the tour, there was time to explore independently — ideal for browsing
shops, enjoying a coffee, or sampling a slice of the city’s famous Linzer Torte (which is
delightful)

In the afternoon, a smaller group joined a more personal excursion: a visit to a family-owned
whisky distillery. Set in the Austrian countryside, this tour offered insight into the craft of
small-batch distilling, complete with tastings and warm, down-to-earth hospitality. It felt like a
true hidden gem, far from the usual tourist trail.

While guests were exploring, something magical was happening on board. In just a few hours,
the AmaMora crew transformed the entire ship into a Christmas wonderland. By the time we
returned, garlands sparkled along staircases with the Christmas Tree hard to miss as you
entered reception. Every space now felt infused with the spirit of the season.
That evening, we were invited to dine at the Chef’s Table – a beautifully presented
seven-course tasting menu, thoughtfully paired with wine. Each dish told a story, each pairing
enhanced the flavour. The company was lively, the service exceptional, and the food exceeded
every expectation.

To round off the evening, the Donauwellen Strings, a classical trio, performed in the lounge.
Their music — elegant, seasonal, and soul-stirring — provided the perfect end to what may
have been the most memorable day of the entire cruise.

Day 4: Wachau Valley – Tranquil Cruising and Timeless Monasteries

The morning began with one of the most serene experiences of the entire journey — sailing
through the Wachau Valley. With crisp winter air outside and a soft hush over the river, the
landscape passed quietly by: steep hillsides, vineyards in their dormant beauty, and the
occasional castle perched above the banks.
As we cruised, our Cruise Manager provided a live commentary, sharing insights into the
region’s history, architecture, and winemaking traditions. It was a relaxed, thoughtful way to take
in the scenery, enhanced further by warm drinks served in the lounge and the calm pace of the
ship.
In the afternoon, the ship arrived in Weissenkirchen, and from there, I joined an excursion that
began with a guided walking tour of Dürnstein. This small town, known for its striking blue
abbey tower and cobbled lanes, felt like stepping into a storybook. The guide led us through its
history, pointing out hidden details and sharing tales of Richard the Lionheart’s imprisonment.
Later, we travelled to one of Austria’s most significant cultural landmarks: the magnificent Melk
Abbey. Still home to working monks, this active Benedictine monastery offered a peaceful,
reflective visit. We arrived just in time for sunset, as golden light filled the courtyards and lit the
Danube below. The guided tour through its library, church, and imperial rooms revealed
centuries of religious and artistic tradition.
Back on board, it was time for my final dinner — a chance to reflect, savour and enjoy the
warm atmosphere one last time. As always, the service was flawless, the food exceptional, and
the mood both celebratory and bittersweet.

One of the most memorable aspects of the cruise I’d love to highlight is the exceptional
service from the entire crew. Every member of staff on board was not only attentive and
professional, but also genuinely warm and friendly. Because the ship operates with a relatively
small team, you quickly become familiar with the faces around you — and they you. That
personal touch made the atmosphere feel more like staying with friends than being on a ship.

The dining experience was just as impressive. Each meal felt thoughtfully prepared and
beautifully presented, with an ever-changing menu that reflected the regions we were sailing
through. Local ingredients and specialities regularly featured, offering an authentic taste of the
journey. Whether you chose a light option or indulged in a full four-course dinner, the choice
was always yours — there was never any pressure, only warm encouragement and excellent
service. With everything included, from regional wines to afternoon snacks, you never wanted
for anything. The quality, variety and care taken with every dish truly elevated the entire cruise
experience.

I can’t wait for my next experience with Amawaterways!