AmaWaterways Rhine River Cruise Review: Amsterdam to Basel Complete Guide
An insider's guide to one of Europe's most beloved river cruise itineraries - from tulip season in Holland to the Swiss Alps
At a Glance: The Rhine River Cruise Experience
Ship: AmaPrima
Route: Amsterdam to Basel
Duration: 7 nights (March 19-26, 2025)
Countries Visited: Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland
Best For: Travellers seeking culture, cuisine, and convenience, couples, multi-generational families
Tulip Season Bonus: March sailing includes Keukenhof Gardens in bloom
Best Time to Sail: March-May for tulips, September-October for autumn colours
Why the Amsterdam to Basel Route Remains a River Cruising Classic
Having experienced multiple river cruises across Europe, I can confidently say the Amsterdam to Basel route on the Rhine continues to be one of the most rewarding itineraries for both seasoned and new river cruisers. This route consistently ranks among the best Rhine river cruises for good reason - it offers the perfect introduction to European river cruising while providing enough depth and variety to satisfy experienced travellers.
What makes this itinerary exceptional:
Choice of included excursions in every port with options at different activity levels (gentle, regular, and active)
Complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner
Intimate ship experience - AmaPrima carries just 162 guests maximum
Twin balconies in most staterooms (French and outside balcony)
Wellness-focused with yoga, complimentary bikes, fitness room, and active excursion options
Central docking locations allowing independent exploration in many ports
The Amsterdam to Basel route combines iconic destinations (Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg) with charming smaller towns, includes one of the world's most scenic river passages (the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage site), and offers cultural diversity across four countries in just one week. The variety is exceptional - from Dutch tulip fields to German castles, Alsatian villages to Swiss sophistication.
Day-by-Day Itinerary: Amsterdam to Basel on the Rhine
Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands - Embarkation
Boarding the AmaPrima in Amsterdam was seamless, just a level 20 minute walk from Centraal Station. One of AmaWaterways' strengths is their efficient embarkation process. If you arrive early, store your luggage with the ship and explore Amsterdam independently. The Anne Frank House, canal cruises, and the Rijksmuseum are all nearby, though advance tickets are essential.
The evening includes a welcome cocktail reception and safety briefing, followed by dinner as we remain docked in Amsterdam overnight.
Day 2: Amsterdam - Keukenhof Gardens
Visiting Keukenhof Gardens during peak bloom was the highlight of the entire cruise. The gardens showcase over 7 million flower bulbs across 79 acres, with meticulously designed displays that evolve throughout the season.
Unlike summer sailings that miss tulip season entirely, our March departure meant Keukenhof was in bloom. The gardens operate only from March through May, making spring sailings on this route particularly special for garden enthusiasts and photographers. The approximately 2-hour visit allows free exploration at your own pace - bring your camera, as every corner is Instagram-worthy.
AmaWaterways also offered a canal cruise and city walking tour of Amsterdam for those preferring urban cultural exploration.
Day 3: Cologne and Düsseldorf, Germany
We docked in the heart of Cologne with the iconic Cologne Cathedral visible from the ship - showcasing one of river cruising's greatest advantages: central locations that eliminate the need for lengthy transfers.
The included walking tour of Cologne's historic centre focuses on the Gothic Cologne Cathedral, one of Europe's largest cathedrals and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide provided excellent historical context, from Roman foundations through wartime destruction to modern reconstruction.
Highlights include: the Cathedral (allow extra time to climb the 533 steps for panoramic city views), the Old Town with colourful medieval architecture, Hohenzollern Bridge adorned with thousands of "love locks," and traditional Kölsch beer houses.
Cologne's unique beer culture centres on Kölsch beer, brewed exclusively in Cologne and served in distinctive 200ml glasses. Waiters continuously bring fresh glasses until you signal completion by placing your coaster atop your glass. The ship remains docked until evening, providing ample free time after the excursion for independent exploration.
Düsseldorf, Germany - Altbier Tasting
Düsseldorf offers a completely different character from Cologne, and the legendary beer rivalry between these cities adds cultural flavour to the experience.
The Altbier tasting tour proved unexpectedly delightful. Düsseldorf's specialty is Altbier ("old beer"), a copper-coloured ale fermented differently than Cologne's Kölsch. Our guide led us to traditional brewpubs in the Altstadt, explaining brewing processes and the fierce local pride in their beer culture. We visited a traditional brewpub, sampled different Altbier varieties, and walked through the Altstadt's 260+ bars and restaurants.
AmaWaterways offered a biking tour focusing on architecture and history for those wanting a more active excursion.
Day 4: Rhine Gorge Cruising & Rüdesheim
Morning: Rhine Gorge Scenic Cruising
The Rhine Gorge between Bingen and Koblenz represents the most scenic stretch of the entire river. This UNESCO World Heritage landscape features medieval castles perched on hilltops, terraced vineyards, and charming villages clinging to riverbanks. You'll see over 40 castles and fortresses, the legendary Lorelei Rock with its siren mythology, terraced vineyards producing exceptional German Riesling wines, and picture-perfect villages like Bacharach and Boppard.
The crew announces points of interest and plays the Lorelei song as you pass the famous rock. Head to the sun deck early - even in March, the views justify bundling up in the morning chill.
Afternoon: Rüdesheim
We docked in the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, famous for its Drosselgasse (a narrow, animated alley filled with wine taverns and shops).
Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet houses an extraordinary collection of self-playing musical instruments from the 18th to 20th centuries. The guided demonstrations with instruments played live provide fascinating insight into pre-electronic entertainment - perfect for music lovers and craftsmanship enthusiasts. This was a real highlight for me!
Alternative options include a gondola ride to Niederwald Monument with Rhine valley views, wine tasting at local vineyards, or bike rides through the vineyards using the ship's complimentary bikes.
Day 5: Heidelberg, Germany
The ship docks in Speyer or Mannheim with a motorcoach transfer to Heidelberg (approximately 45 minutes) - standard practice when cities aren't directly on navigable waterways.
Heidelberg, Germany's oldest university town, combines castle ruins, baroque architecture, and Neckar River setting into one enchanting experience. Heidelberg Castle perches above the city (the partial ruins enhance rather than detract from its romantic appeal), offering panoramic views over red-tiled rooftops and the Old Bridge. The tour includes exploring the historic university district and seeing the world's largest wine barrel inside the castle (capacity: 220,000 liters).
Significant walking and stairs are involved, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. Time is allocated for independent old town exploration after the guided portion, with lovely views and interesting finds around every corner.
Day 6: Strasbourg, France - Gateway to Alsace
Crossing into France brings noticeable changes in architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere. Strasbourg uniquely straddles French and German cultures, having changed hands between nations multiple times throughout history.
Gem of Alsace Tour explores the picturesque Alsatian countryside, visiting smaller villages that appear lifted from fairy tales. Experience half-timbered houses with colourful facades, flower boxes overflowing with blooms, vineyards and rolling countryside. The region produces exceptional white wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
The walkable centre of Strasbourg allows exploration of La Petite France (the historic tanners' quarter with canals), Strasbourg Cathedral with its astronomical clock, and French cafés serving tarte flambée.
Day 7: Colmar, France
Morning: Colmar Walking Tour
Our final excursion explored Colmar, a town so picturesque it inspired the village in Disney's "Beauty and the Beast." Even in March, Colmar proved absolutely enchanting as it was being “dressed” with Easter decorations.
La Petite Venise (Little Venice) features canals lined with colourful half-timbered houses and a market. The Unterlinden Museum houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. Cobblestone streets appear virtually unchanged from medieval times. The compact town allows thorough exploration in 2-3 hours, and March means fewer tourists than summer months.
The evening's Captain's Farewell Dinner includes speeches, crew introductions, and celebratory atmosphere, highlighting the service quality and connections formed throughout the week.
Day 8: Basel, Switzerland
We arrived in Basel for disembarkation after breakfast. Basel sits at the intersection of Switzerland, France, and Germany - a fitting conclusion to our four-country journey – and a great starting point for continued exploration through Switzerland.
Life Onboard the AmaPrima
The Ship
The AmaPrima, launched in 2013, carries just 162 guests and features three passenger accommodation decks plus a sun deck. Most staterooms feature AmaWaterways' signature twin balconies.
Key Features:
Small heated pool on the sun deck
Fitness room and complimentary bicycles
Massage services (additional cost)
Complimentary WiFi throughout
Hair salon
Small gift shop
Pickleball court
Category AA Staterooms on Violin Deck
I stayed in a Category AA stateroom on Violin Deck (Deck 3), which proved ideal for this itinerary. At 235 square feet, these staterooms are comfortable, spacious and well-designed.
Category AA Benefits:
Mid-ship location on Deck 3 provides optimal stability and convenience
Twin balconies - French balcony (floor-to-ceiling window) plus outside step-out balcony
Easy access to main restaurant and lounge and sun deck
The twin balcony concept proves ingenious: open the French balcony for fresh air and river views, or step outside onto the actual balcony for unobstructed scenery.
Room Features:
Comfortable queen bed (or twin configuration)
Good storage with closet and drawers, and underbed storage for luggage
Safe for valuables
Well-appointed bathroom with shampoo and conditioner
Hair dryer
Nightly turndown service
Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
Ample power outlets for charging multiple devices
Select staterooms can accommodate triple occupancy, making river cruising accessible for families. AmaWaterways accepts children as young as 4 years old on most sailings. If you have questions about travelling with children on a river cruise, contact me.
The Rhine route includes several locks rather than low bridges. Watching the ship navigate locks proves fascinating from your balcony or the sun deck as water levels change to raise or lower the vessel.
Dining Experience
The culinary programme showcased regional specialities and high-quality ingredients throughout the journey.
Main Restaurant:
Open seating (no assigned tables or dining times)
Multi-course dinners with menu choices and lots of variety
Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Regional specialities featured at each destination
Self-serve beverage station offering specialty coffees, teas, and infused water available throughout the day
The Chef's Table:
Specialty restaurant requiring reservations (complimentary)
Multi-course tasting menu
More intimate setting
Book early once onboard as it fills quickly
One memorable afternoon featured a Bavarian Beer and Pretzel Party with oversized pretzels, various mustards, assorted German sausages, sauerkraut, and German beer - wonderful cultural immersion while meeting fellow passengers.
AmaWaterways handles dietary restrictions exceptionally well, seamlessly accommodating gluten-free, vegetarian, and dairy-free requirements.
Daily Routine & Entertainment
Typical Day:
Sunrise yoga or stretching with the Wellness Host
Breakfast in main restaurant
Morning excursion or free time in port
Lunch onboard or independently in town
Afternoon excursion or exploration
Happy hour in the lounge before dinner
Dinner service
Evening entertainment (live music, trivia evenings, dancing, tour director destination talks)
Next day's port briefing
The atmosphere is relaxed, cultured and conversation-focused rather than party-oriented. Our sailing included a wide demographic range - from multi-generational families with children (tweens in this case) to retirees - creating a welcoming environment for various traveller types.
The crew-to-passenger ratio (approximately 1:3) enables attentive yet unobtrusive service. Room stewards, restaurant servers, and the cruise director were welcoming and helpful.
Making the Most of Shore Excursions
AmaWaterways includes a choice of excursions in every port, with multiple options at different activity levels: Gentle Walking (minimal activity), Regular Walking (2-3 hours with some hills/stairs), Active Walking (longer distances, challenging terrain), and Biking Tours using the ship's complimentary bikes.
Top Excursion Recommendations
Keukenhof Gardens - Unmissable during March-May sailings
Altbier Tasting Tour - Unexpectedly enjoyable cultural experience
Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet - Unique and fascinating
Romantic Heidelberg - Classic German romanticism with exceptional photography
Colmar Walking Tour - Captures the essence of Alsace perfectly
The Option to Skip Excursions
Since excursions are included, there's no financial pressure to participate. Many docking locations are centrally positioned, allowing easy independent exploration on foot. The cruise director provides specific details about each port's walkability during evening briefings.
When independent exploration works well: Amsterdam (if you've visited before), Cologne (cathedral and old town offer good variety), Strasbourg (compact, walkable historic centre).
When excursions add significant value: Keukenhof (requires transportation), Heidelberg (requires motorcoach transfer).
Best Time to Take a Rhine River Cruise
Choosing when to sail significantly impacts your experience.
Spring (March-May): Tulip Season Best for Keukenhof Gardens access, spring blooms, and fewer crowds. Weather is unpredictable but offers lower pricing than summer. Pack layers and rain gear.
Summer (June-August): Peak Season Warmest weather, longest daylight hours, all attractions fully operational. Highest prices and most crowded tourist sites.
Autumn (September-October): Wine Harvest Beautiful fall foliage, wine harvest season, comfortable temperatures. Fewer families travelling. Days grow shorter.
Winter (November-December): Christmas Markets Holiday atmosphere with magical Christmas market experiences. Different itinerary than other seasons, cold weather.
My Recommendation: For the classic Amsterdam to Basel experience with Keukenhof access, March through early May is ideal. For optimal weather with minimal trade-offs, late April through May or September provides the best balance.
Packing Essentials for a Spring Rhine Cruise
March weather on the Rhine proves unpredictable - I experienced everything from sunny spring days to cold, rainy mornings.
What to Pack
Clothing:
Comfortable daytime layers
Light jacket and waterproof rain jacket
Versatile scarf
Country club casual attire for evenings (nice trousers/skirts, collared shirts, blouses)
Footwear:
Comfortable walking shoes with excellent support
Nice shoes for dinner
Essentials:
Power adapter (European outlets Type C/F)
Binoculars for castles and scenery
Day bag or backpack and refillable water bottle
Sunglasses and sunscreen
AmaWaterways offers laundry service for a modest fee. Umbrellas are available to borrow.
Is AmaWaterways Worth the Money?
AmaWaterways positions itself in the premium river cruise category. Understanding the value proposition helps you make an informed decision.
What You're Paying For:
AmaWaterways' comprehensive inclusions eliminate many additional expenses. Your fare covers all accommodations, meals, shore excursions, wine and beer with meals, WiFi, and bicycles. When you compare this to booking hotels in Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Basel separately, plus meals, transportation, and guided tours, the value becomes clear.
The crew-to-passenger ratio (approximately 1:3) enables personalized service. Central docking locations eliminate transfer costs and save time - walking off the ship directly into city centres represents tremendous value. The convenience of unpacking once while visiting multiple countries, with all logistics managed professionally, has genuine value for travellers focused on experiences rather than operational details.
The Bottom Line: For travellers who value convenience, quality service, and cultural immersion without logistical headaches, AmaWaterways delivers excellent value. Working with a Virtuoso travel advisor like me provides access to exclusive benefits that enhance value further.
Why Book with a Specialist Travel Agent
As a Virtuoso-affiliated river cruise specialist, I work with travellers seeking the best possible experience on worldwide waterways. While booking directly with cruise lines is possible, working with a specialist like me provides significant advantages.
Expertise and Experience:
Deep knowledge of ships, itineraries, and cabin categories
Understanding seasonal variations and optimal sailing times
Matching your travel style with the right cruise line and route
Complex pre- and post-cruise arrangements
Detailed excursion guidance and recommendations
Exclusive Virtuoso Benefits Not Available Direct:
Amenities with minimal exclusions
Private Sale with enhanced savings
Reduced single supplements on select sailings combined with Virtuoso benefits
Group amenities when travelling with friends or family
Comprehensive Support:
Full transparency on pricing and availability
Access to all cruise line promotions
Seamless booking management
Pre-departure planning assistance
Support during your travels
The real value in working with a specialized advisor like me becomes apparent when planning elaborate journeys - combining multiple cruise segments, arranging extensions, coordinating flights and transfers, or organizing multi-generational family travel.
Optimal Booking Timeline
Book 12+ months in advance where possible for maximum early booking benefits. Past passenger advantages are available for repeat cruisers. Our exclusive Private Sale and wave season (January-March) features promotions to maximize value. Ask me for details.
What's Included in Your Fare
All accommodations and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
Wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; Happy Hour
Self-serve beverage station with specialty coffees, teas, and infused water throughout the day
Choice of included shore excursions in every port with multiple activity level options
Complimentary bicycles and helmets
Entertainment, enrichment programmes, and WiFi
Bottled water in stateroom
Additional expenses: Gratuities, spa services, premium spirits, additional excursions, laundry service, shopping.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
How much does an AmaWaterways Rhine cruise cost?
Pricing varies based on season, cabin category, and booking timeline. Spring and autumn sailings typically offer better value than peak summer. Booking 12+ months in advance provides the best pricing and availability. Working with a Virtuoso travel advisor like me gives you access to exclusive benefits and onboard credits that enhance value. Contact me for current pricing and available promotions.
What's the best time to take a Rhine river cruise?
For the classic Amsterdam to Basel experience with Keukenhof Gardens, March through early May is ideal. For optimal weather, late April through May or September offers the best balance of pleasant temperatures and manageable crowds.
Is AmaWaterways worth the money?
Yes. AmaWaterways delivers excellent value through comprehensive inclusions (accommodations, meals, excursions, wine/beer, WiFi), exceptional service, central docking locations, and hassle-free logistics. Working with a Virtuoso travel advisor like me provides exclusive benefits that enhance value further.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. You'll cross multiple international borders throughout the journey.
Will I experience motion discomfort?
Extremely unlikely. River cruising occurs on calm, protected waters. The gentle movement is barely perceptible. The ship features stabilizers, and most passengers never notice any motion.
Is WiFi reliable?
Complimentary WiFi is generally reliable for email and messaging. Video streaming can be inconsistent. Download entertainment before your cruise if needed.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, tap water throughout the ship is safe. Complimentary bottled water is also provided in your stateroom and replenished daily. Self-serve beverage stations offer specialty coffees, teas, and infused water throughout the day.
How formal is dinner?
Country club casual - nice trousers/skirts, collared shirts or blouses, and nice shoes required.
Can I skip excursions and explore independently?
Absolutely! Since excursions are included, there's no financial pressure to join them. Many docking locations are centrally positioned for easy independent exploration. The cruise director provides specific walkability details during evening briefings.
What's the passenger demographic?
While traditionally 50+, the demographic is trending younger. Our sailing included many couples in their 40s-50s and multigenerational families with children.
Is river cruising suitable for solo travellers?
Exceptionally well-suited. The intimate ship environment makes it easy to meet fellow travellers. The social atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming. Safety is excellent. Through Virtuoso travel advisors like me, solo travellers can access reduced single supplements on select sailings that combine with exclusive Virtuoso amenities.
How much walking is involved?
Significant walking on most excursions with cobblestones, stairs, and uneven surfaces. Gentle walking options exist, but reasonable mobility is essential for most activities. If you have questions about mobility and how it can impact your river cruise, contact me.
Can families with children enjoy this cruise?
Yes, though the experience skews toward adult interests. Minimum age is 4 years old. Select staterooms accommodate triple occupancy. The itinerary includes walking-intensive excursions that may challenge young children and there are no dedicated spaces or experiences onboard for children. If you have questions about multi-generational river cruises, contact me.
What's included in an AmaWaterways Rhine cruise?
All accommodations and meals, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, specialty coffees and teas throughout the day, choice of included shore excursions in every port with multiple activity levels, complimentary bicycles, WiFi, entertainment, and bottled water in your stateroom. Gratuities, spa services, premium spirits, and additional excursions cost extra.
Final Thoughts: The Enduring Appeal of the Rhine
After experiencing the Amsterdam to Basel route aboard the AmaPrima, I was reminded why this itinerary remains one of Europe's most beloved river cruise journeys. The route delivers extraordinary variety across four countries, perfectly balances organized excursions with independent exploration opportunities, and showcases river cruising's unique advantages.
This cruise suits you if: You want multiple destinations without constant packing/unpacking, value cultural experiences, prefer smaller ships and personalized service, want hassle-free travel with logistics managed seamlessly, enjoy walking and exploring historic towns, appreciate fine food and wine, or are travelling as a couple, with friends, or multi-generationally.
Sailing through the Rhine Gorge with a glass of Riesling or a Rudesheimer coffee on the sun deck, watching medieval castles drift past, perfectly captures why people become devoted river cruisers. The AmaWaterways Rhine River cruise from Amsterdam to Basel isn't simply a holiday - it's a journey through the heart of Europe, connecting you to centuries of history, diverse cultures, and landscapes that have inspired artists for generations.
Ready to experience the Rhine for yourself? Contact me to discuss your ideal sailing dates and take advantage of exclusive Virtuoso benefits.
Have questions about river cruising or this specific itinerary? I'd love to help you plan your perfect European river cruise experience.
