AmaWaterways, Smithsonian Journeys unveil 2027 river cruise collection

AmaWaterways has unveiled details of 42 new departures for 2027 in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys.

Among the highlights are two new itineraries: one takes passengers along the waterways of France – the Seine, Saône and Rhône rivers, and the other is a voyage along the winding Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia.

Drawing on the Smithsonian’s 175+ years as the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, each itinerary features distinguished Smithsonian Journeys experts and experiences designed to foster deep cultural engagement.

Eleven expertly curated itineraries showcasing Europe’s most breathtaking and historic rivers — including the Danube, Rhine, Douro, Seine and Rhône — will launch in 2026 and return in 2027.

Each journey features exclusive excursions and enriching opportunities to engage with a diverse array of experts, from art historians and archaeologists to scientists, anthropologists and more.

All departures include a selection of optional pre- and post-cruise land packages, hosted by an AmaWaterways cruise manager, allowing guests to delve even deeper into the cultural and historical richness of each destination.

Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways, said: “At AmaWaterways, our mission is to create travel experiences that uncover the heart of each destination. 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.”

Walter Littlejohn, senior vice president of Smithsonian Journeys, said that: “We first announced the Smithsonian Journeys/AmaWaterways alliance just a few months ago, for cruises beginning in spring 2026, and we’ve seen an overwhelmingly positive response from the market — underscoring a growing demand for meaningful and enriching travel.”

Littlejohn continued: “With interest continuing to build, we are excited to introduce the 2027 program, featuring sailings along Europe’s most iconic rivers and, new for 2027, a chance to venture farther, delving into the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia on the culturally rich Mekong River.”

And he added: “As always, these voyages will include the distinctive touches of the Smithsonian — two Smithsonian Journeys experts aboard each voyage and thoughtfully curated shore excursions — and will open the door to new opportunities for curious explorers to more deeply engage with the vibrant history and rich cultures of these extraordinary destinations.”

Go to http://www.amawaterways.com/smithsonian-journeys for more.