- AmaWaterways has announced four history-themed itineraries for 2027.
- The river cruises will be hosted by expert historians, including Mat McLachlan.
- Itineraries will focus on Anzac Day and D-Day in Europe and the Vietnam War in Southeast Asia.
Sail back in time with AmaWaterways in 2027. The premium river cruise line has partnered with Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours for four history themed itineraries that explore the great conflicts of the 20th century.
The cruises will focus on great battles of World War I and World War II, Anzac Day, and the D-Day landings in Europe. In Southeast Asia, discover the ancient civilisations along the Mekong and sites of the Vietnam War, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Long Tan.
Each river cruise is accompanied by one of McLachlan’s expert historians and will include exclusive battlefield touring excursions and on board history seminars, as well as full access to AmaWaterways’ on board experiences and shore excursions.
“We are thrilled to partner with AmaWaterways to create a brand-new history-themed travel experience for 2027 and beyond,” said Mat McLachlan. “The river cruise experience AmaWaterways provides is second to none and the rivers it sails are at the heart of history.”
“Today’s travellers are seeking transformative experiences that blend luxury and learning. We’re witnessing an unprecedented surge in historical curiosity, and rivers have always been the arteries of civilisation,” McLachlan explained. “Partnering with AmaWaterways allows us to create these extraordinary journeys where guests can literally sail through the pages of history.”
“We’re excited to partner with Mat McLachlan and his great team at Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours to bring these extraordinary historical journeys to life,” said Steve Richards, AmaWaterways Managing Director AU/NZ. “AmaWaterways’ commitment to providing immersive cultural experiences aboard our luxury vessels makes us the perfect partner for these specialised historical cruises.”
AmaWaterways 2027 history cruises
Anzac Day 2027 – departing Amsterdam April 23, 2027
This special eight-day voyage offers a unique way to commemorate Anzac Day while experiencing the beauty of Holland and Belgium during tulip season. You’ll experience three pivotal chapters of history: Waterloo, WWI and WWII. The highlight is attending the moving Anzac Day service at the Menin Gate in the medieval walled city of Ypres, followed by an exploration of WWI trenches, the battle-scarred Hill 60 and Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world.
Mat McLachlan 2027 Signature Cruise – departing Amsterdam September 18, 2027
Personally hosted by historian Mat McLachlan, this eight-day round-trip cruise from Amsterdam travels through Holland and Belgium, sailing on the new AmaSofia that launches in 2026. You’ll discover three great battles: Waterloo, WWI and WWII’s Band of Brothers campaign. The journey will commemorate significant anniversaries on the ground where history was made, including the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Menin Road near Ypres and the 83rd anniversary of Operation Market Garden – the largest airborne operation in history.
D-Day Anniversary Cruise – departing Paris June 3, 2027
Taking place over the anniversary of the D-Day landings, this eight-day round-trip cruise sails from Paris through the picturesque countryside of France, visiting medieval castles and artist villages. You’ll spend June 5 and 6, the 83rd anniversary of the D-Day landings, exploring the historic beaches where the Allied forces launched their decisive assault on Nazi-occupied Europe and changed the course of history.
Riches of the Mekong and Vietnam War Cruise – departing Kampong Cham August 9, 2027
This Southeast Asian adventure includes eight days sailing the Mekong River from Cambodia through Vietnam on board the luxurious AmaMaya. Uncovering the region’s ancient civilisations and modern conflicts. An optional five-day land extension takes you to key Vietnam War sites in the south, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Long Tan – the site of Australia’s most famous Vietnam War battle. The journey culminates with a Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration on August 18 at the Long Tan battlefield and the Long Tan Cross.
