River Cruise Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
We’re happy you’ve given yourself permission to ask questions! Clearly you’re not alone, which is why these are called frequently asked questions.
-Kim
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A: Yes! Actress/ Director Kim Fields not only attends every Retreat, but leads our charge in curating unique wellness experiences for the Retreats as well as in our digital content spaces.
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A: On December 27th, 2025, As early as 12 P.M. guests can board the ship and drop off luggage. However, embarkation is between 3 P.M - 4 P.M, so between 12 P.M. and until the guests get their cabins they can walk off the ship to get lunch or walk around and shop, or they can simply relax onboard in the common public areas. We will serve some light fare food in the Main Lounge. NOTE: The ship stays overnight in Amsterdam.
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A: The ship departs Amsterdam at 11 A.M on December 28th, 2025 for our epic winter SOULstice cruise!
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A: The ship returns at 4:30 A.M. local time (subject to change).
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A: Cabin check-out is 9 A.M. This is disembarkation, when all guests have to be out of their rooms. Guests are welcome to enjoy the ship’s public spaces and luggage storage until 10 A.M.
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A: We are curating a number of Refresh Retreat by KF experiences on the ship along with the AmaWaterways activities. This schedule will be provided in the coming weeks.
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A: AmaStella.
Year Built: 2016
Length: 443 ft.
Width: 38 ft.
Crew: 51
Staterooms: 78
Passengers: 156
Registry: Switzerland
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A: The net part charter rate for sole occupancy of any cabin except category E, D, and Suite is to be calculated at 150% of the per person double occupancy rate; 125% for E and D; 200% for Suites.
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A: No. However, Refresh By KF is paying port charges for all Retreaters.
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A: No. Gratuities are not included but can be prepaid in the amount of $157 per person per 7-nights cruise.
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A: Yes.
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A: Hyatt Regency Amsterdam, Amsterdam Marriott Hotel, NH Amsterdam Leidseplein Hotel, Doubletree Hotel By Marriott, Monet Garden Hotel. Also, HERE is the link to the land packages offered for separate rate and booking:
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A: Europe: High-speed Internet service is available free of charge as part of the in-stateroom "Entertainment-On-Demand." Additionally, AmaWaterways offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.
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Our Main Restaurants have plenty of seating and dinner is a single seating where table reservations are not accepted. Our crew will serve you at your table and will be happy to offer you a similar choice of menu items formerly available at our buffets. Reservations for our specialty tasting menu at The Chef's Table specialty restaurant can be made once you are on board the ship. Our Receptionist can assist you with any dining questions. The Chef's Table is available throughout Europe, in Egypt and on the Mekong River. It is not available in Portugal or on board the Zambezi Queen in Africa.
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A: Europe: Every excursion is included with your choice from up to six guided tours each day, all operated in small groups. In every city or town you visit, there is typically a sightseeing tour offered at three unique activity levels for gentle walkers, regular walkers and active walkers, along with free time to explore the city according to your own interests. The sightseeing tours can take place on foot, via motor coach, or a combination of the two. Each tour is led by a qualified, licensed English-speaking local guide or your Cruise Manager. On select excursions, we also have a "Late Starter" option for guests who wish to sleep in but do not want to miss key tour highlights. For those guests interested in exploring Europe from an exciting new perspective, we offer guided bicycle and hiking tours in select cities. In addition to our many choices of excursions we also offer our special interest tours such as wine tastings and culinary demonstrations, offering small groups the chance to be even more immersed into the local life. In the event of water level problems on certain stretches of the river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motor coach or to alter the daily program as determined by the ship's Captain.
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All Lost and Found inquiries are processed online. Please fill out the claim form here and if found, our AMAzing crew will work to return the item(s) to you. Please read the form carefully for important information.
AmaWaterways is independent from the courier used for the return.
Guests are responsible for all the shipping costs, which is directly provided and handled by the courier online.
Items that cannot be shipped due to restrictions: alcohol, tobacco products, batteries, medication, food.
Lost and Found process:
Step 1: Fill out the claim form on online.
Step 2: The claim form must be completed before submission. Please review the details on the form carefully before submission, for there will be no amendments allowed once it is submitted.
Please make sure to include the Ship, Booking Number, Cabin Number & Complete guest name.Step 3: The request will be reviewed by our Ama staff and it may take up to a couple of weeks for an update.
Step 4: If the item is found, an email will be sent with additional information and a link for the payment. Alternately, you will be informed if the item is not found.
Step 5: Once payment is received, a label with the tracking details and confirmation of the payment will be sent within two business days. The ship will then proceed with the shipment preparation.
The transit time begins at the time of the pick up and not the date of payment. Also, since ships are a moving vessel, returns are done at specific major cities where the ship is docked all day, per courier. There may be delays due to inclement weather, nautical changes or emergencies.Step 6: An update will be sent once the pick up has taken place.
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ItemYes, as of January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom is implementing a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for travelers to enter or transit through the UK. All guests transiting through the UK (changing planes or airports) enroute to an AmaWaterways river cruise are required to hold an ETA. Travelers will need to apply online at least three days before departure. For more information, please visit our Travel Advisory Page.
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Europe: Elevators are available on board all vessels reaching the two highest passenger decks, reception area and restaurant, but does not reach the lowest passenger deck or the Sun Deck. The AmaMagna, AmaSiena, AmaLucia, AmaMora, AmaLea and AmaKristina feature an elevator that reaches all 3 passenger decks, but does not reach the Sun Deck.
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We are pleased to offer all meals on our ships in Europe “a la carte” with full table service. Breakfast will also include a small buffet and select items will be available at culinary action stations, such as our breakfast bowls. The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, available on all ships except those in Portugal, is also included in the river cruise fare. Dining is open seating.
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Europe: Comfortable, layered clothing adaptable to changing weather conditions is always advisable for daytime excursions. While packing for your river cruise, your attire should strike a balance between comfort and sophistication. Casually elegant outfits and something a little dressier for the Captain’s Dinner, La Chaine des Rotisseurs dinner or an evening concert are recommended. Comfortable shoes are recommended for excursions and workout clothing if you plan to take part in any wellness activities, active tours or use the onboard gym. Depending on the time of year, clothing that can be layered is highly recommended.
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A: Cancelling 121 Days or more prior to Departure: Retreater receives amount paid MINUS $200.00 & $250.00 non refundable deposit.
A: Cancelling 120-90 Days prior to Departure: Retreater receives amount paid MINUS $400 & $250.00 non refundable deposit.
A: Cancelling 89-60 Days prior to Departure: Retreater receives amount paid MINUS 35% of amount paid & $250.00 non refundable deposit.
A: Cancelling 59-31 Days prior to Departure: Retreater receives amount paid MINUS 50% of amount paid & $250.00 non refundable deposit.
A: Cancelling 30 days - 24 Hours prior to Departure: No Refund.
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A: We encourage all Retreaters secure Traveler’s Insurance.