{"id":9138,"date":"2025-11-25T16:33:45","date_gmt":"2025-11-25T16:33:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.paramountcruises.com\/blog\/?p=9138"},"modified":"2026-06-04T11:19:46","modified_gmt":"2026-06-04T11:19:46","slug":"amawaterways-romantic-danube-cruise-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.paramountcruises.com\/blog\/amawaterways-romantic-danube-cruise-review\/","title":{"rendered":"AmaWaterways AmaMora Review: Romantic Danube from Vilshofen to Vienna"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Recently, Robin travelled onboard AmaWaterways\u2019<\/a> ship AmaMora<\/a> on a beautiful journey along the Danube. Starting in the Bavarian town of Vilshofen, the cruise explored Germany and Austria with visits to Passau, Linz, the Wachau Valley, Melk and Vienna. It had been ten years since his last river cruise, and this trip reminded him exactly why river cruising is such a standout way to explore Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

AmaMora at a glance<\/strong> (per AmaWaterways): 443 ft long, 156 passengers, 78 staterooms, 51 crew. Sister ship to AmaLea and AmaKristina. Twin-balcony suites combine a French balcony for the view with a separate outdoor step-out balcony, distinctive to most of the AmaWaterways fleet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Itinerary Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Day<\/th>Destination<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Day 1<\/td>Vilshofen Embarkation<\/td><\/tr>
Day 2<\/td>Vilshofen and Passau<\/td><\/tr>
Day 3<\/td>Linz<\/td><\/tr>
Day 4<\/td>Wachau Valley Scenic Cruising and Melk<\/td><\/tr>
Day 5<\/td>Vienna and Disembarkation<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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View all Ama Mora Cruises <\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Day 1<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The journey began at Munich Airport, where the group gathered at a caf\u00e9 in the main terminal. It was an easy and relaxed meeting point. Once everyone had arrived, an AmaWaterways\u2019<\/a> representative guided the group to the coach for the short drive to Vilshofen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along the way, the guide pointed out local landmarks, including the BMW plant and the farmland that shapes much of the Bavarian countryside. It was an enjoyable first introduction to the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the coach crossed the bridge into Vilshofen, the AmaMora<\/a> came into view, docked beside the impressive AmaMagna<\/a>. Embarkation was smooth and well organised, and Robin was pleased to find his stateroom ready on arrival. His Oceanview cabin felt comfortable and surprisingly spacious, with good storage and a powerful rain shower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

After unpacking, he headed to the lounge where tea, coffee and cakes were being served. It was a warm welcome and a lovely opportunity to settle in and meet fellow guests. Cruise Director Raul then gathered everyone for a short introduction to the ship and the journey ahead. His friendly and enthusiastic manner put everyone at ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before dinner, the group took a short walk to a hall used by AmaWaterways<\/a> for their Bavarian welcome celebration. Warm pretzels, local mustard and chilled beer were waiting, and a lively Bavarian band filled the room with music. The host shared amusing stories about regional customs and organised a few games that had everyone laughing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Back on board, dinner was served in the main restaurant. The menu offered several choices for each course, and dietary needs were handled with great care. The chef even took the time to speak with guests personally. It was a relaxed and enjoyable first evening that set the tone for the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Exterior Image of AmaMora<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Oceanview Cabin on AmaMora<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Main Restaurant onboard AmaMora<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Day 2<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first full morning was cool and overcast. Breakfast offered plenty of choice, whether a quick bite in the lounge or a full buffet and an \u00e0 la carte menu in the restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day began with a wellness walk led by Andreja, the Wellness Host. The route wound through Vilshofen before heading into nearby woodland and up a gentle hill that offered lovely panoramic views. The pace was comfortable, allowing everyone to enjoy the fresh air and peaceful surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before the ship left Vilshofen, AmaWaterways<\/a> arranged a special tour of AmaMagna<\/a>. Being twice the width of a standard river ship, she felt more like a small ocean vessel, with spacious suites and several dining venues. It was fascinating to see the contrast between the two ships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Exterior image of AmaMagna<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Exterior image of AmaMora<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Passau<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

By midday, the ship reached Passau just as the weather turned cold and rainy. Despite this, Robin joined a fast-paced walking tour. The streets were quiet as it was a Sunday, but the guide brought the city\u2019s history to life. She explained the significance of the cathedral\u2019s six-thousand-pipe organ and shared stories about Passau during the Second World War.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Returning to the warmth of the ship after the rain felt wonderful. Dinner was served as AmaMora<\/a> sailed towards Linz, and the evening passed in the cosy comfort of the lounge, where snacks and drinks were available whenever guests wanted them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Aerial of Passau<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Passau Cathedral six-thousand-pipe organ<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Lounge onboard AmaMora<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Day 3<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The morning brought sunshine and clear blue skies, which made it ideal for the active bicycle tour of Linz. The city is known for its strong cultural heritage and the famous Linzer Torte. The route took the group through the historic centre and past the cathedral, which took one hundred years to complete. The guide shared stories about the architecture and explained how churches in Austria were once restricted from being built taller than the one in Vienna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guests who preferred other options could visit Salzburg, travel to Ceski Krumlov in the Czech Republic or join a gentle walking tour of Linz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Afternoon in Linz<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After lunch, part of the group visited a whiskey distillery. Robin chose another wellness walk and then spent the afternoon wandering through Linz at his own pace. A traditional apple strudel with hot chocolate made for a delicious afternoon treat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That evening, a guitarist came on board to perform a set of familiar rock songs. Guests gathered in the lounge to sing along and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It was one of those unexpected highlights that make river cruising so memorable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ceski Krumlov Old Town<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Linz Holy Trinity Column on the Main Square<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Christmas Market in Salzburg<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Day 4<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The morning was dedicated to scenic cruising through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley. Robin settled on a sun lounger with a hot drink and watched as castles, vineyards and small villages drifted past. The Cruise Director provided commentary along the way, pointing out landmarks and sharing stories about the region. It was peaceful and beautiful and exactly the kind of moment that makes river cruising so special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melk and D\u00fcrnstein<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After lunch, the ship docked near Melk. Some guests chose to visit the village of D\u00fcrnstein, which is well known for its apricot chocolate that the locals jokingly call Rabbit Shit. Robin joined the guided tour of Melk Abbey instead. The Benedictine monastery is still active today, and the tour offered a fascinating look at its architecture, its impressive library and its quiet courtyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Chef\u2019s Table<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

That evening, he enjoyed dinner at The Chef\u2019s Table. This intimate dining venue offers a seven-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Each dish was beautifully presented and introduced by the head waiter. It was one of the most memorable dining experiences of the trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Melk Abbey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Chef’s Table Ravioli <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Day 5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On the final morning, guests were asked to vacate their staterooms by nine. This left enough time for Robin to explore Vienna before travelling to the airport. The Christmas markets were already in full swing and offered a wonderful mix of festive treats, decorations and handmade gifts. He picked up a traditional toy called a Gonk to take home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Returning to the ship for his luggage, he said goodbye to the crew, who had made the entire journey so memorable. It was the perfect end to a standout week on the Danube.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What stood out most about this cruise was the balance between relaxation, culture and exploration. Each day brought a new place to discover, whether it was a quiet stretch of river, a historic town or a memorable local experience. The pace felt natural and unhurried, and the ship provided a comfortable and welcoming base throughout the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was a journey filled with beautiful scenery, good food and enjoyable company, and one that leaves a lasting impression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If this trip has inspired you to plan your own river cruise, contact our cruise experts, and we will help you find the ideal itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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View all Ama Mora Cruises <\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Call Our Cruise Experts<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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“This is the AmaWaterways itinerary I recommend to clients who want depth over breadth on a Danube cruise. Starting in Vilshofen rather than Budapest gives you the quieter Bavarian and Austrian river towns, the Wachau Valley by day, and Vienna as the grand finale. The twin-balcony suites on AmaMora make it the most peaceful Danube ship to come back to after a long day ashore.”<\/p>Robin, Cruise Specialist, Paramount Cruises<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What’s the difference between AmaMora and AmaMagna on the Danube?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

AmaMora carries 156 guests with twin-balcony suites (a French balcony plus a separate outdoor balcony). AmaMagna is the wider sister ship carrying 196 guests with full-balcony suites and a larger public-space footprint. Both sail the Danube to the same AmaWaterways standard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where does a Vilshofen-to-Vienna AmaWaterways cruise call?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Standard Vilshofen-to-Vienna itineraries call at Passau and Linz on the way through Germany and Austria, with the Wachau Valley (Melk Abbey and D\u00fcrnstein) as the midweek highlight, before two nights in Vienna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How long is the AmaMora Danube cruise?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Standard AmaMora Danube sailings between Vilshofen and Vienna are seven nights. Longer 14-night Magnificent Europe sailings combine the Rhine, Main and Danube between Amsterdam and Budapest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is the Wachau Valley worth visiting on the Danube?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Yes. The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage stretch of the Danube between Melk and Krems, with terraced vineyards, baroque abbeys and small wine towns. Most AmaWaterways Danube itineraries scenic-cruise this section in daylight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is the Chef’s Table at extra cost on AmaMora?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

No. The Chef’s Table speciality dining experience is included in the cruise fare on AmaMora and most of the AmaWaterways fleet, although reservations are limited and typically booked once onboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n

More from our AmaWaterways coverage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n