AmaWaterways, is pleased to announce that it has received four TravelAge West WAVE (Western Agents’ Vote of Excellence) Awards. The company was recognized during the 2017 WAVE Awards Ceremony, held on June 16 in Marina del Rey, California. AmaWaterways’ co-owners Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Gary Murphy were on hand to accept top WAVE Awards honors in the following categories:
- Best Onboard Dining, River
- Best New Ship, River – AmaViola
- Best Shore Excursions, River
- River Cruise Line Providing the Best Travel Agent Support
“As we celebrate our 15th year anniversary, the AmaWaterways team is particularly honored to have been recognized in these four impressive categories,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “Helping travel professionals be successful and continually giving them innovative river cruise products to sell has allowed us to grow our fleet to the 20 ships we have today. It is such a privilege to have been recognized by our travel agent partners in the West for our continued efforts in these areas!”
A family owned company, AmaWaterways has earned a reputation for transforming the river cruise industry through innovative ship design, creating authentic and experiential shore excursions and providing award-winning food, wine and service. The company offers its guests a wide choice of complimentary activities in every port of call and includes biking and hiking options as well as immersive regional food and wine tasting. With over 47 wine themed departures offered in 2017, AmaWaterways leads the way in epicurean river cruising.
Sister ship to AmaStella and AmaKristina, AmaViola launched in March 2016 and features a sparkling glass elevator; contemporary décor inspired by the destination; a spacious lounge with panoramic views; a fitness room; heated swimming pool with swim up bar; complimentary in-room Entertainment-On-Demand centers and Wi-Fi; spacious staterooms, most featuring a French Balcony or signature “Twin Balcony” and connecting staterooms to accommodate families.
A proud member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary organizations and a recently inducted member of La Connétablie de Guyenne – the third oldest vinous brotherhood in Bordeaux – AmaWaterways continually pursues innovative ways to enhance dining experiences on board. The new tasting menu at The Chef’s Table restaurant and new Tapas menu offered in the lounge are just two examples of how the line connects the pleasures of travel with regional culinary experiences.
Travel agent professionals throughout the 15 Western states and readers of TravelAge West were invited to vote on the best-of-the-best from a list of Editor’s Pick award recipients that were chosen after careful review by Editor-in-Chief Ken Shapiro and the editorial team of TravelAge West. Review methods included product analysis, on-site visits, a survey of a select group of travel agents and online research.
“These awards are a vital part of the travel industry and recognize the ‘best of the best,’” said Bruce Shulman, Publisher of TravelAge West. “Travel professionals who read and rely on TravelAge West can be confident that the winners of a WAVE Award represent those suppliers and destinations committed to bringing the best products and services to their clients.”
TravelAge West will also feature AmaWaterways in a special WAVE Awards Spotlight Issue due out on July 17, 2017.
