Golf, Wine & River Views: AmaWaterways Delivers

When you think of a European river cruise, chances are your mind drifts to charming villages, castles perched above vineyards, and quiet mornings watching the world glide by from your stateroom balcony. And yes—those scenes exist, and they’re part of the magic. But there’s another layer to river cruising that often gets overlooked: the ability to merge niche interests like golf and wine into a seamless, elevated travel experience.AmaWaterways has done precisely that with their Concierge Golf Program and Celebration of Wine River Cruises—two thoughtfully designed journeys that allow travelers to combine their favorite hobbies with the luxury and ease of river cruising. If you’re someone who wants a little more from your next trip (or can’t imagine choosing between a golf vacation and a cultural escape), this could be your perfect fit.

 Golf & Cruising: A Match Made on the Danube

Let’s start with one of the more unexpected pairings: river cruising and championship golf. AmaWaterways' Concierge Golf Program brings five top-tier courses across Central Europe right to your itinerary—without the usual travel headaches.

These are not your average tourist courses either. We’re talking about PGA-level venues including:

• Diamond Country Club (Austria) – Host to the Austrian Open

• Penati Golf Resort (Slovakia) – A modern stunner ranked in Europe’s Top 100

• Quellness Golf Resort (Germany) – Home of the Beckenbauer Course

• Pannonia Country Club (Hungary) – A championship course with lakeside charm

• Albatross Golf Resort (Czech Republic) – Just outside Prague and one of the country’s most prestigious clubs

All of this happens aboard the AmaMagna, AmaWaterways’ flagship vessel on the Danube and one of the most spacious ships in European river cruising. Roughly twice the width of a standard river cruise ship, AmaMagna feels more like a boutique hotel than a boat, with:

• Oversized staterooms and balconies

• Four distinct dining venues

• A full wellness studio (with spin bikes, if you’re feeling ambitious)

• A sun-deck pool, whirlpool, and pop-up bar

Now, if you’re picturing yourself schlepping clubs through cobblestone streets and scrambling for tee times, don’t. The Concierge Golf Program takes care of:

• All green fees

• Private luxury transfers to and from the courses

• Lunch at the clubhouse

• Club cleaning and storage onboard

• A dedicated golf concierge who handles every logistical detail

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It’s the golf vacation for people who usually don’t want to plan a golf vacation.

And while I won’t be participating in the golf version myself, I will be sailing on the same Magna on the Danube itinerary in July 2025—giving me a firsthand look at this incredibly scenic route that winds through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany. From medieval cities to rolling vineyards, it’s a visual feast even without the tee times.

More info on the Golf Program here: www.amawaterways.com/agent/shellybishop/golf

 Sip, Swirl, Sail: Celebration of Wine Cruises

Now, if a Pinot Noir sounds more your speed than a par-5, AmaWaterways’ Celebration of Wine River Cruises may be exactly what you’re looking for.

These aren’t just cruises with wine tastings tacked on—they’re deeply immersive itineraries that highlight the rich viticulture of Europe’s most beloved wine regions. Each sailing features a dedicated wine host—a winemaker, vineyard owner, or sommelier—who guides tastings, hosts onboard lectures, and joins you for special wine-themed excursions ashore.

The 2026 lineup includes:

 The Rhône River (France): Sip your way through the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence and the Northern Rhône. Grenache, Syrah, and rosé lovers, this is your playground.

 The Douro River (Portugal): Cruise through the steep terraced vineyards that produce Port and bold reds while visiting UNESCO-listed towns like Pinhão and Lamego.

 The Rhine & Moselle Rivers (Germany): Discover quaint wine villages, castle ruins, and the home of some of the world’s best Rieslings.

 The Danube (Austria): Perfect for Gruner Veltliner and Riesling lovers, the Danube’s Wachau Valley offers a spectacular mix of scenery and vineyards.

What’s included on a Celebration of Wine Cruise:

• Exclusive wine tastings onboard

• Wine-paired dinners designed by AmaWaterways’ culinary team

• Cellar tours and vineyard visits ashore

• Daily excursions that go beyond the average walking tour

  
  

These cruises are especially popular among travelers who love a sense of connection—to the people behind the wines, the regions they come from, and the stories that make each bottle unique. It’s one thing to enjoy a glass of wine. It’s another to enjoy it alongside the vintner who made it… while floating past a 12th-century castle.

Get the full 2026 lineup here: www.amawaterways.com/agent/shellybishop/explore/wine-hosts/2026

Why These Cruises Work So Well

As a travel professional who works with both seasoned travelers and first-time river cruisers, I’ve seen these specialty cruises strike a sweet spot between enriching and effortless. Whether you're an avid golfer or a curious wine lover, AmaWaterways has built in everything you need to enjoy your interest without the usual stress of planning around it.

And as an all-inclusive travel agent, I’m often asked what’s actually included. Here’s a quick overview of what’s standard on AmaWaterways:

• Fine dining with wine, beer, and soft drinks included at lunch and dinner

• Daily small-group excursions (with active, regular, and gentle pace options)

• Wellness programs and onboard fitness classes

• Sip & Sail cocktail hour every evening

• Wi-Fi, bicycles, and transfers

• No nickel-and-diming once you board

Whether you’re sipping Riesling in Rüdesheim or teeing off in Vienna, your trip feels seamless. You’re not worrying about transportation, reservations, or hidden costs. That’s what makes these cruises a win for anyone looking to maximize their time and minimize planning fatigue.

Let’s Find the Right Fit for You

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast craving a new kind of golf vacation, a wine lover wanting to dive deeper into Europe’s best regions, or simply someone looking for something more than your standard cruise itinerary, these specialty sailings are worth a closer look.

If you’re curious about dates, pricing, or traveling with a group of friends, I’m happy to help. 

Learn more or request a quote here: bit.ly/m/ShellyBishopMTPOr browse all AmaWaterways sailings at: www.amawaterways.com/agent/shellybishop

Shelly Bishop

Travel Advisor

sbishop@moderntravelpros.com

727-460-4365