AmaStella Review

Exceeded Expectations

Review for Europe River Cruise on AmaStella
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MainstreetRob
First Time Cruiser • Age 70s

Rating by category

Cabin
Value for Money
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Fitness & Recreation
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Additional details

Sail Date: Mar 2019
Cabin: Outside Stateroom with French Balcony

This was our first river cruise. We will definitely do it again, and based on this experience AMA will be our first choice. Everyone on this ship went out of their way to be friendly and helpful, from the captain to the cruise and hospitality directors, to food service personnel, waiters and bar attendants, and to housekeeping staff. Food was excellent, particularly the Chef’s table which was served with pride by the chef and his staff in the special eating area at the ships stern as we happily took in the (sunny) view of the picturesque waterways. Activities were well organized and interesting with enthusiastic local guides. Was particularly impressed with the cruise director who proved to be a great entertainer while bringing us all up to date on upcoming events and schedule. He seemed to always be there to interact with guests or solve problems. Amazing how he also made challenges of scheduling of supporting transport and guides invisible to ship guests. Appreciated the security of on board entry and the concerns of local guides to always have the right number in the group or safely avoiding the crazy Dutch cyclists and cars. Entertainment highlight was a classical trio who were fantastic. Other entertainers were comfortably appropriate for guest demographics. Judging by the age of cruise guests, this cruise was most frequented by 55+ folk. Often they retreated to cabins after dinner. Despite fitness leader, not a big draw except for small number who usually took more active cycle tours. There were a few kids on this cruise but with much walking and historical focus, probably not best for kids.

I have written reviews for trip advisor on several occasions but have never had the opportunity to be so positive about a trip experience. Keep it up AMA, we’re looking to do this again next year!

A final word on the weather. It was cold and damp for early April so bring warm clothes and rain gear. Fortunately only one day was rainy but our umbrellas saved the day. Despite the weather Keukenhof was beautiful, as was the Florillia flower show that AMA arranged access to before the show opened a few days later. Btw, when in Bruges, make sure to get your chocolates from Dumont’s.

Cabin Review

Outside Stateroom with French Balcony

Cabin CA

Smallish but comfortable with an incredible amount of storage space. Bed was queen size and very comfortable. Liked the two chairs by the window allowing us some time to catch up on latest news or simply relax in our own room. Always clean. Staff serviced room at least three times a day with bedtime chocolate before turning in. Access to electronic system with interesting video of captains view of ships direction. Internet access, AMA app of upcoming schedule and opportunity to send pictures to home, or create a pictorial album. Shower always had hot water.

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