AMASerena

AmaSerena Review
If you’re considering a river cruise and wondering what the experience is actually like, I recently had the chance to spend a night onboard AmaSerena—and it gave me a really good feel for what makes this style of travel so special.
Operated by AmaWaterways, this ship is very different from the big ocean cruises you might be picturing. It’s smaller, calmer, and much more focused on the destinations you’re visiting.
One of the first things I noticed when stepping on board was how intimate everything felt. With only around 160 guests, it never feels crowded or hectic.
Instead of queues and noise, you get a relaxed atmosphere where the crew quickly get to know you. With roughly 49 crew members, the service feels personal without being over the top.
It feels more like a floating boutique hotel than a cruise ship.
I had the chance to look around several cabin types, and what stood out most was how well-designed they are.
Many of the staterooms have AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design, which means you get both a French balcony and a proper step-out balcony perfect for watching the scenery drift by.
Even the standard cabins feel comfortable and thoughtfully laid out, with:
• Good storage space
• A modern bathroom with a multi-jet shower
• Nice touches like bathrobes and slippers
One thing I really liked and something that often surprises people is how much is included.
With AmaWaterways, you’re not constantly reaching for your wallet. Your cruise fare already covers:
• All meals onboard
• Wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Sparkling wine at breakfast (a nice touch!)
• Daily guided excursions in every port
• Wi-Fi
• Even the use of onboard bikes
It makes the whole experience feel much more relaxed and easier.
Even in my short time onboard, it was clear that food is a big part of the experience.
The Main Restaurant offers multi-course meals with a focus on regional dishes, which ties nicely into wherever you’re sailing.
There’s also The Chef’s Table, a smaller, more intimate dining experience with a tasting menu and open kitchen, which I’d recommend trying if you sail.
For something more casual, the lounge serves light bites, tapas, and afternoon tea, which is perfect during scenic cruising.
You won’t find waterparks or theatres here, and honestly, you don’t miss them.
Instead, AmaSerena focuses on spaces you’ll actually use:
• A Sun Deck with a heated pool, loungers, and great views
• A panoramic lounge where people gather for drinks and music
• A small fitness room and wellness area
• Quiet corners like the library if you just want to relax
River cruising is much more about where you go than staying on the ship, and that really came across.
During the day, guests typically:
• Head out on guided walking tours
• Go cycling or hiking
• Join cultural talks or tastings
And in the evening, things are low-key:
• Live piano music
• Maybe a local performance
• A drink in the lounge with fellow travellers
It’s social if you want it to be, but never forced.
From what I experienced, AmaSerena is ideal if you:
• Prefer smaller, quieter ships
• Enjoy cultural experiences over big entertainment
• Like the idea of unpacking once and exploring multiple destinations
• Want a more inclusive, hassle-free holiday
My Overall Take
Even though I only spent one night onboard, it was enough to understand why people love river cruising and why AmaWaterways has such a strong reputation.
AmaSerena isn’t about flashy attractions or non-stop entertainment. It’s about comfort, scenery, great food, and really connecting with the places you visit.
If you’re on the fence about river cruising, I’d say this: it’s a completely different pace of travel, and for a lot of people, that’s exactly the appeal.