AmaWaterways has unveiled 42 new river cruise departures for 2027 in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution. The program includes two new itineraries — one in France and one in Southeast Asia — alongside returning European sailings.
The new Grand Waterways of France itinerary spans 15 days and travels along the Seine, Saone and Rhone rivers. Departures are scheduled for April 22 to May 6, August 26 to Sept. 9 and Oct. 7–21, 2027. The voyage begins in Paris, heads to the Normandy coast and continues through Giverny, Dijon, Burgundy, Lyon, Ardeche and Provence. Rates start at $8,759 per person, double occupancy.
The second addition, Along the Mekong: Charms of Vietnam and Cambodia, is a 17-day journey combining land and river travel. Departures are set for Jan. 1–25, Feb. 15–22 and Nov. 1–8, 2027. Guests visit Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh and Hanoi, and spend seven nights on the Mekong River visiting floating markets, rural hamlets and artisan communities. Prices start at $5,299 per person, double occupancy, with cruise-only rates from $2,999.
These new sailings join a slate of 11 existing Smithsonian Journeys itineraries covering the Danube, Rhine, Douro, Seine and Rhone rivers, which will return in 2027 after launching in 2026. Each sailing features two Smithsonian Journeys experts — such as historians, scientists and anthropologists — and curated shore excursions. Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available and hosted by AmaWaterways cruise managers.
“At AmaWaterways, our mission is to create travel experiences that uncover the heart of each destination,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “We are delighted to partner with Smithsonian Journeys and together offer guests voyages that inspire curiosity, deepen the connection with the places they visit and provide the exceptional comfort and service our guests expect, all the while creating shared and lasting memories.”
Cruise fares include dining in multiple venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, daily cocktail hour, small-group excursions, Wi-Fi, fitness classes and airport transfers. Sailings range from eight to 15 days and are now available to book online.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by AmaWaterways and Smithsonian Journeys. It was fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
