AmaWaterways & Backroads Expand Active River Cruises in 2023-2024
Image credit: Andrew Opila

Unforgettable Itineraries in Europe’s Most Captivating Destinations

As a travel writer and lover of cruising, I am thrilled to share with you the exciting news about the continued collaboration between AmaWaterways and Backroads for the 2023-2024 season. With more than 140 active river cruise departures lined up, these two leaders in active river cruising have put together an exceptional range of European river cruise experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

Eight years into their partnership, AmaWaterways and Backroads have perfected the formula for active river cruising, combining immersive, meticulously planned bike trips with the comfort and luxury of a river cruise. Travelers can now book Backroads’ newest offering: the Bordeaux River Cruise Bike Tour, which takes guests through the heart of the famed wine region.

Tailor-Made Adventures for Couples, Families, and Solo Travelers

Guests can choose from a wide variety of itineraries and destinations, including the Dordogne, Garonne, and Gironde Rivers of Bordeaux; the Danube, Douro, Rhine, and Seine Rivers; and the Dutch & Belgian Waterways. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a family group, there’s an itinerary perfectly suited for your needs.

AMAWaterways expands Backroads bicycle excursions in 2023-2024
Image credit: Brenda Ernst

Backroads provides expert trip leaders, individualized support, and multiple vans on every departure, ensuring flexibility and a variety of biking route options each day. With over 44 years of experience and trips in 55 countries, Backroads offers unmatched expertise in the world of active travel.

Luxury Meets Active Exploration on AmaWaterways Ships

As Tom Hale, Founder & President of Backroads, said, “Being active by day while living aboard a luxurious ship and unpacking just one time makes our active river cruises a perfect way to experience up to five different countries during an eight-day vacation.”

AmaWaterways and Backroads have crafted itineraries to cater to different groups, including those designed specifically for couples, friends, solos, and families. The Dolce Tempo Easygoing Active River Cruises, for instance, are perfect for travelers new to active travel or those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

AMAWaterways river cruise in Europe
Image credit: Andrew Opila

Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, emphasized the importance of their collaboration with Backroads: “Our partnership allows us to further cater to the growing active traveler market and offer something for every type of traveler.”

While onboard an AmaWaterways river ship, guests can enjoy award-winning cuisine, welcoming service, comfortable staterooms with signature twin-balconies, and a range of amenities such as a daily Sip & Sail complimentary cocktail hour, heated Sun Deck pool or whirlpool, hair and massage salons, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ships.

With AmaWaterways and Backroads’ 2023-2024 lineup, active river cruising has never been more exciting or accessible. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Europe’s most captivating destinations through the unique combination of biking adventures and the luxury of an AmaWaterways river cruise.

2023-2024 river cruise trips available through AmaWaterways and Backroads include:

Recommended for Couples, Friends & Solos

  • Bordeaux River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Danube River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Dutch & Belgian Waterways – Tulip Time from Amsterdam to Bruges – River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Portugal’s Douro River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Rhine River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Seine River Cruise Bike Tour

Recommended for Families

Backroads runs unique family-focused itineraries for three distinct age groups: Teens & Kids; Older Teens & 20s; Adult Kids 20s & Beyond

  • Danube River Cruise Bike Tour
  • Rhine River Cruise Bike Tour

Dolce Tempo Easygoing Active River Cruises

Backroads Dolce Tempo tours are perfect for travelers new to active travel, or those who want to explore the world actively at a more leisurely pace.

  • Danube River Easygoing E-bike Tour
  • Rhine River Cruise Easygoing E-bike Tour

Full Ship Celebration Bike Tour River Cruises

Backroads Full Ship Celebration tours are exclusive sailings where the complete ship is reserved to host 100+ Backroads guests.

  • Danube River Cruise Full Ship Celebration Bike Tour
  • Portugal’s Douro River Cruise Full Ship Celebration Bike Tour

Image courtesy of AMAWaterways