AmaWaterways Is Building Two New Ships, Including a Second One for Mekong River Cruises
AmaWaterways has 124-passenger ship AmaDara, which offers Mekong River Cruises. The river cruise line has announced that a second ship, AmaKaia, will be the line’s second Mekong ship when it debuts in 2026.
AmaWaterways has two new river ships coming in 2026: AmaKaia will join AmaDara on the Mekong River in Asia; and AmaSofia will cruise on the Rhine and Danube Rivers in Europe.
AmaWaterways offers fantastic river cruise experiences in a growing number of destinations. We’ve always enjoyed our trips, especially because the ships feature fitness-focused excursions and amenities that are great for active travelers.
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The line has be operating for more than two decades and has 29 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s major rivers; Southeast Asia’s Mekong; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and — coming in 2025 — Colombia’s Magdalena River.
AmaSofia to Join European Cruise Fleet
With an expected launch date of May 24, 2026, AmaSofia is expected to debut in May 2026 as the cruise line’s 24th ship to sail on Europe’s most popular rivers. The inaugural 14-night itinerary is called Magnificent Europe and follows the route of emperors, kings and queens on voyages between Amsterdam and Budapest. You can cruise on three rivers through four countries on an immersive exploration of the culture, history, foods and traditions of the regions.
Highlights include guided bike rides through scenic vineyards and small towns, visits to a pretzel bakery, tours of castles and palaces, culinary tours and sightseeing at the region’s most historic cities. Amazonia will offer 31 departures in 2026, featuring multiple itineraries on the Danube, such as Melodies of the Danube, Romantic Danube, and the popular Christmas Markets on the Danube.
AmaKaia Will Offer Voyages to Vietnam and Cambodia
In Southeast Asia, AmaKaia will offer immersive trips to experience the fascinating culture and history and delicious cuisine in Cambodia and Vietnam.
AmaKaia is expected to embark on its first seven-night itinerary in August 2026. Cruisers will explore the ancient lands while enjoying regional delicacies, a wide range of daily included excursions and onboard entertainment.
Experiences include traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) rides, visits to workshops and monasteries, a Buddhist blessing ceremony and learning about the region’s history from those who taught it and, in many cases, lived it.
The two seven-night itineraries, Charms of the Mekong and Riches of the Mekong both offer a blend of well-known sites and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
AmaKaia will have 22 sailings in 2026 and up to of 38 in 2027. Land extensions are available in several cities, including Siem Reap, home of the world’s largest religious structure, Angkor Wat.
All of these adventures take place while cruising in comfort and enjoying AmaWaterways’ highly curated programs. This includes fine dining in multiple onboard venues — including The Chef's Table specialty restaurant — unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks, a daily variety of small group excursions, including hiking, biking and special interest tours, high-quality Wi-Fi, a Wellness Program with a variety of Wellness Host-led fitness classes, airport transfers and much more.