We asked our travel agent for a Danube cruise. She suggested AMA Waterways vs Viking. saying that since Viking started ocean cruising they have moved some of their best people away from the river boats and AMA Waterways gives better service. We had previously taken a Viking Ocean cruise of the Western Med and were very pleased.
We flew from Jacksonville, FL to Atlanta and then to Amsterdam using Delta Priority status and found that we did indeed have more seat room. Regardless that 8 hour flight was tiresome. Arriving in Budapest we were met by an AMA driver who brought us to the Sofitel Chain Bridge Hotel where we had a lovely room and perfect service. We walked around the area and ate that evening at the Four Seasons Hotel which is located nearby in a gorgeous old castle.
The next day we transferred to the AMAViola, a beautiful ship with the most hospitable staff and a comfortable room with a balcony. Later that day we had a guided tour of Budapest. Evening cruise for Budapest lights
Plenty of room, nicely decorated, mini fridge, safe. Very nice and comfortable bedding. Good light blocking curtains. No boating engine noise.
Dining was very good to excellent. Many choices and always a regional favorite.
Very attentive wait staff. Beer and wine complementary at lunch and dinner and cocktails at 6pm.
Minimal on board entertainment: piano music, folk dance group etc but a classical concert in Vienna and beer fest in Germany.