AmaWaterways Plans More Than 50 Ships by 2032, Led by the Double-Width AmaRudi on the Danube

October 13, 2026 — River cruise line AmaWaterways says it plans to operate more than 50 ships by 2032, with growth in Europe and in markets beyond it, such as the Nile and Mekong.

The flagship: AmaRudi

AmaRudi will be the line’s second double-width river ship after AmaMagna and is set to be the largest river cruise ship in Europe. It will carry 196 guests in 98 staterooms and sail only on the Danube. The extra width goes to public areas, including a dedicated entertainment venue and a full-size pickleball court on the Sun Deck. It is the first AmaWaterways ship named after a man, honoring co-founder and chairman Rudi Schreiner. Its debut date is TBA.

Ships on order

Season and docking changes

• Some Rhine and Danube itineraries now include February departures.
• Portugal (Douro) sailings now run into December, including holiday and New Year’s departures.
• Some ships now dock at Zaandam rather than central Amsterdam to ease congestion; CEO Catherine Powell called it a short transfer for guests.

Powell said the line will “expand thoughtfully into new markets outside of Europe.” North America remains its largest market.

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What it means for airline travelers

• If your Amsterdam sailing docks at Zaandam, check your cruise documents for the pier and transfer details before you plan your ride from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).
• New February departures on the Rhine and Danube and December departures on the Douro mean more off-peak options, when flights to Europe are often less full, which helps if you fly standby.
• Dates for AmaRudi, AmaNubia and AmaCleo are TBA; do not book flights around them until AmaWaterways opens sailings.
• No travel-industry or interline rates were mentioned.

Sources

• Cruise Industry News: AmaWaterways Targets 50-Plus Ships by 2032, Led by Double-Width AmaRudi