Luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways is expanding its appeal to Asia's growing premium cruise market with a dedicated Lunar New Year sailing tailored for Mandarin-speaking guests.
Departing 31 January 2027 aboard AmaLea, the seven-night cruise follows AmaWaterways' Best of the Danube itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Budapest and visiting Central European destinations such as Bratislava, Vienna, Melk and Linz.
Targeting cruisegoers celebrating the Chinese Year of the Goat, the sailing will feature Mandarin-speaking crew members, daily onboard programmes in both English and Mandarin, Mandarin-translated shore excursions and bilingual menus.
For this special sailing, guests will also be treated to a special Lunar New Year gala dinner.
Meanwhile, the journey includes a variety of shore experiences throughout Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, allowing guests to choose from guided walking tours, bike tours, hikes and cultural excursions. Highlights include Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, Melk Abbey, Bratislava's historic centre and the opportunity to visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
AmaWaterways' signature inclusions include luxury accommodations and dining experiences in multiple venues, including the Journeys Restaurant and The Chef's Table specialty restaurant, which offers multi-course tasting and wine pairing menu.
Guests may also enjoy unlimited wine and beer with lunch and dinner, wellness activities led by a dedicated Wellness Host, complimentary Wi-Fi and a choice of shore excursions in every destination.
“As we continue to welcome more guests from across Asia, we [are creating] experiences that are both culturally meaningful and personal,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador of AmaWaterways.
“Lunar New Year is a time for family, reflection and celebration, and we wanted to give our Mandarin-speaking guests the opportunity to mark this special occasion while exploring some of Europe's most beautiful destinations.”