Deciding on a river cruise through the European waterways is no easy task. After experiencing a Viking Ocean Cruise, we decided to look at a river cruise that offered similar levels of service and quality we had experienced with Viking. The two biggest river cruise lines are Viking and AmaWaterways so we decided to research both of these to see who offered the best value. In this Viking Vs AmaWaterways article we share our research to help you choose between these two giants and we compare cabins, ship layouts, dining & drinks plus shore excursions. We also compare two almost identical itineraries to help guide you in finding which line delivers the best experience and value.
Why this comparison matters
- Biggest fleets in Europe = more dates, ships, and availability
- Consistency across vessels
- Nearly identical Romantic Danube routes
- Key deciders: price in your market, cabin size, inclusions, activity level, and onboard vibe
Price & inclusions (by market)
Comparing different cruise lines is not easy as there are always differences in quality, service, facilities, and extras which may or may not be included with your base fare. From a pure cost perspective we researched and found 2 similar itineraries, both titled a classic Romantic Danube cruise lasting 7 days. The AmaWaterways river cruise is aboard the AmaVerde departing Vilshofen on September 21, 2026 and finishing in Budapest. The Viking cruise is aboard the Viking Egil and departs on September 20, 2026 from nearby Regenburg and also finishes in Budapest.
We’ve also shown prices for US, UK and Australian residents as there are differences when it comes to gratuities and added perks like discounted airfares for US residents.
We have also compared the cheapest option aboard, each that come with a balcony or a French balcony, and considered the entry level for both cruise lines.
The prices we have here are what was advertised at the time of our research but these can change until you lock them in with a booking. You may find the prices differ if you are checking after reading our research because prices can move up (or down) depending on demand, costs of inclusions, like food, drinks and any added benefits such as shore excursions.
Price Comparison
- United States (French balcony):
- Viking: 5,349pp; drinks with meals included. Optional Silver Spirits package: $27 pp/day ($189 each).
- AmaWaterways: $6,348 pp; drinks with meals plus daily hosted cocktail hour; no drinks package option.
- Verdict: Viking wins on price; Ama adds value with cocktail hour and bigger room.
- Australia:
- Viking: A$8,995 pp including onboard gratuities.
- AmaWaterways: A$9,756 pp; tips not included.
- Verdict: Viking offers simpler, stronger value.
- United Kingdom:
- Viking: £3,995 pp including onboard gratuities + free roundtrip air from London (on this departure).
- AmaWaterways: £5,479 pp; tips not included.
- Verdict: Viking is the clear value leader on this date.
You can check these out at Viking or AmaWaterways
Cabins: your everyday comfort
- Viking French Balcony (Egil): ~135 sq ft—efficient, minimalist, very compact.
- AmaWaterways French Balcony (AmaVerde): ~170 sq ft—noticeably roomier; easier for two to get ready, more storage and breathing space.
- Winner for space: AmaWaterways.
Ships, layout, and amenities
- Capacity:
- AmaVerde: ~160 guests, ~51 crew (slightly better guest-to-crew ratio).
- Viking Egil: ~190 guests, ~53 crew.
- Wellness/fitness:
- Viking: no gym, no bikes, quiet lounges; elevator typically doesn’t reach sun deck.
- AmaWaterways: small fitness room, wellness host/classes, complimentary bikes and guided rides, varied‑pace walking tours, sun deck pool with swim‑up bar.
- Ambiance:
- Viking: clean Scandinavian design, Aquavit Terrace, polished and consistent.
- Ama: warm contemporary lounges, Chef’s Table venue, slightly more intimate feel.
Dining & drinks
- With meals: Both include regional wines/beer/soft drinks.
- Distinctives:
- Viking: The Restaurant + Aquavit Terrace; highly consistent timing and execution. No tables for two in main restaurant (expect 6–8s; 4s on Aquavit).
- AmaWaterways: Main restaurant + included Chef’s Table tasting menu; daily hosted cocktail hour; will accommodate tables for two on request.
- Outside mealtimes:
- Viking: Optional Silver Spirits package (~$27 pp/day) can be great if you enjoy multiple beverages throughout the evening.
- Ama: Hosted cocktail hour included; otherwise pay‑as‑you‑go, no package.
Excursions and pacing
- Viking: One included tour in most ports; optional paid upgrades for niche interests; crisp logistics and guides with audio headsets.
- AmaWaterways: Multiple included choices most days (gentle walkers, panoramic, active bike/hike) with smaller groups due to fewer guests.
- Winner for choice and activity: AmaWaterways.
Service style
- AmaWaterways: Slightly higher crew-to-guest ratio—more personalised touches, staff learn preferences quickly.
- Viking: Polished, efficient, highly consistent across the fleet.
Quick comparison table
Verdict: Which wins?
- Choose Viking if you want:
- Best overall value in AU and UK (gratuities and, in UK, air included)
- Lower US fare, with optional drinks package to keep costs predictable
- Consistency, efficient schedules, and the Aquavit indoor‑outdoor concept
- Choose AmaWaterways if you want:
- Larger staterooms and a more intimate onboard feel
- Included Chef’s Table tasting dinner and hosted cocktail hour
- More active options (bikes, hikes, wellness) and multiple included tours daily
- Pool with a casual, social vibe
Bottom line: In Australia and the UK on these dates, Viking is the value leader. In the US, Viking remains less expensive, but AmaWaterways justifies its premium if you value space, activity, and culinary variety. Both end with Budapest’s unforgettable night‑time finale—pick the ship that matches how you actually travel.
Check out all our articles on Viking River and Ocean Cruises here
