- AmaWaterways teams up with Smithsonian Journeys for Europe river cruises.
- The debut is scheduled for April 2026.
- This marks the first river cruise partnership for Smithsonian Journeys.
Smithsonian Journeys is entering into their first partnership with a River Cruise company in their latest announcement. Teaming up with AmaWaterways, Smithsonian Journeys aims to launch river cruises in Europe with a particular theme for historians, archaeologists, scientists and anthropologists.
And they’re clearly feeling pretty confident the cruises will be a hit, with over 33 departures booked to debut from April 2026, sailing on the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Rhone Rivers.
Smithsonian Journeys has a partnership already established with Ponant for ocean Cruising, with small-ship ocean crusies. More than 60 itineraries are currently available across several ocean destinations.
Smithsonian Journeys is entering a new era with river cruise journeys, beginning with eight-day to 15-day itineraries.
With bookings open now, Smithsonian Journeys has already enlisted the services of big-name onboard guest lecturers including Tiffany Florvil, an associate professor of modern European history at the University of New Mexico; Tom Dawson, an archaeologist and professorial research fellow at the University of St. Andrews; and Valerie Hedquist, an art history professor at the University of Montana.
According to Smithsonian Journeys, these experts are “chosen for their charisma and expertise. These extremely knowledgeable individuals have dedicated entire careers to pursuing their passions and will offer incredible insights to ensure your journey is as captivating as it is meaningful.”
What’s included?
Every journey with Smithsonian on an AmaWaterways cruise will include gourmet dining with fine dining at every meal, plus a multi-course tasting at The Chef’s Table. Up to 6 immersive guided tours are included daily, including exclusive experiences. A dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Manager will take care of you throughout your journey with personalised service. Complimentary Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hours are included. Airport transfers and portage service to and from the ship on cruise embarkation and disembarkation days. Smithsonian Journey Experts (Two dedicated Smithsonian Journey Experts) will provide enriching lectures on topics related to the destinations you visit.
Smithsonian Journeys Itineraries:
The Tulip Time Itinerary is a seven-night journey roundtrip from Amsterdam with prices starting from $6159 per person twin share. Several other itineraries are available from this price and above.
