More Than 100 Departures Now Open to Book for 2017 Travel, Including New Options Debuting on Rhine, Seine and Douro Rivers
Calabasas, CA - (Jun. 20, 2016) -
AmaWaterways (www.AmaWaterways.com) and Backroads (www.Backroads.com) today announced an expanded 2017 line-up of active river cruise departures. Providing best-in-class service and authentic upscale travel experiences, the companies will offer more than 100 sailings in 2017, further developing their growing alliance to bring active adventure biking, walking and hiking tours to the world’s most renowned river cruise destinations.
“Our work with Backroads has been a resounding success so far, enhancing the experience of our guests, while attracting a new category of travelers to the rapidly expanding river cruise market,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “Expanding our relationship and offerings in 2017 is very exciting and we look forward to seeing even more active cruisers aboard AmaWaterways as we progress through 2016 and into the new year!”
AmaWaterways and Backroads have developed the ultimate active travel river cruising experience, presenting biking, walking and hiking cruises perfect for solo travelers, couples and families. In 2016, AmaWaterways and Backroads debuted the only river cruise biking trips on the Rhine, Seine and Portugal’s Douro rivers, providing travelers with an interest in history and culture the opportunity to cycle between the beaches of D-Day and small, charming European villages. In addition, the companies debuted the ‘Danube Full Ship Celebration River Cruise Bike Tour’ onboard the new AmaViola – giving cruisers the chance to bike in the Wachau Valley, join local cyclists on the world-famous Donauradweg and enjoy regional delicacies in Germany in the company of 150 fellow biking enthusiasts.
With many of the 2016 Backroads sailings booked, the companies are looking forward to the future. In addition to its cycling trips, Backroads will launch an all-new walking tour on the Douro in 2017 – making it the only river cruise with a comprehensive active trip in Spain or Portugal. Cruisers will enjoy the gorges and vineyards of northern Portugal and Western Spain, while visiting the Douro River Valley, Madrid, Porto and Lisbon.
Travelers booking a 2017 departure will experience the comfort and luxury of an AmaWaterways river cruise combined with Backroads’ immersive, expertly designed walking, biking and hiking tours. Every Backroads trip will feature the same quality experience as traditional Backroads adventures, including multiple expert trip leaders, custom titanium or electric bikes, support vans, and innovative itineraries with a range of cycling, walking and hiking routes ideal for all abilities.
“As the leader in active travel, Backroads has spent the past 37 years continually in motion, always focused on turning great ideas into reality for our guests,” said Backroads Founder and President, Tom Hale. “There’s much to be gained by exploring actively and immersing oneself in the life and culture of a new area and we believe river cruising is one of the best ways to travel actively while enjoying the comforts aboard a ship.”
While onboard, guests will enjoy AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony (French and outside balconies) staterooms – which provide breathtaking panoramic views. Staterooms are equipped with an Entertainment on Demand system, complimentary internet access, the latest movies, a music library and more. Those looking to exercise onboard can do so in AmaWaterways’ fitness rooms and guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can relish in the salon and massage areas. All guests will also enjoy the high levels of luxury and quality for which AmaWaterways is known, including The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, a refreshing sun deck and heated pool with a swim-up bar. Complimentary unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner and complimentary bottled water is provided daily in all staterooms.
For more information on the Backroads active river cruises with AmaWaterways, visit www.backroads.com or call 1-800-462-2848. For more information about AmaWaterways, visit www.AmaWaterways.com or call (800) 626-0126. Follow AmaWaterways on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmaWaterways and Twitter @AmaWaterways.