Champagne yoga is just one of a host of new activities AMA Waterways River Cruise guests may encounter this year, as the company expands its wellness offerings and strives to position itself as “the leader in active river cruising.“ With AMA you have a range of options including excursions that offer hiking & biking as well as onboard stretching class, core strengthening, yoga, active walking and other fitness classes. You can also attend wellness classes during the cruise. For those wanting a more personalized experience, you can meet with a fitness coach for a one on one appointment.
This is just one example of a multitude of changes that have ushered in a new generation of river cruisers over the past decade. Ten or so years ago, river cruises were mainly booked by those in their 70’s and 80’s. AMA Waterways has been among the leaders in developing programs to attract younger travelers, first by adding bicycles to all of its ships, and then by offering dedicated family cruises.
Many river cruises claim to be “first” in something – from adding fitness instructors to farm-to-table dining. Today’s upscale lines, responding to demands by modern travelers for active and authentic experiences, have larger cabins, better and healthier dining options, more onboard amenities like spas, gyms, fitness instructors and personal trainers. Many also offer shorter itineraries to attract those in the workforce and have less time for traveling.
Avalon Waterways, Crystal, Amadeus, Uniworld and others now have workout rooms and onbard fitness trainers who lead yoga and other classes on their ships. Even Viking, shich remains hyperfocused on the traditional 50-plus demographic, has added more active excursions, a response to the fact that even many older travelers are much more active than they used to be.
Culinary, wine and beer river cruises are also growing in popularity, including special sailings with celebrity chefs and wine and beer experts and visits to craft breweries, vineyards, and popular restaurants.
