AmaWaterways and Backroads expand partnership

Tour operator Backroads is to provide active adventure biking, walking and hiking tours on more than 100 AmaWaterways river cruise itineraries in Europe in 2017.

This year, AmaWaterways and Backroads debuted the only river cruise biking trips on the Rhine, Seine and Douro rivers, providing travellers with the opportunity to cycle between the beaches of D-Day and European villages. In addition, the companies introduced the ‘Danube Full Ship Celebration River Cruise Bike Tour’ onboard the new AmaViola. This enabled cruise guests to cycle in the Wachau Valley, join local cyclists on the Donauradweg and sample regional delicacies in Germany.

Next year, Backroads will offer its usual bicycle tours and also launch a new walking tour on the Douro in Portugal. This will enable cruise guests to visit gorges and vineyards in the Douro River Valley in northern Portugal and Western Spain.

“Our work with Backroads has been a resounding success so far, enhancing the experience of our guests, while attracting a new category of travellers to the rapidly expanding river cruise market,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “Expanding our relationship and offerings in 2017 is very exciting and we look forward to seeing even more active cruisers aboard AmaWaterways as we progress through 2016 and into the new year!”

Led by experts, Backroad’s cycling, walking and hiking tours are tailored to meet guests’ different abilities and are designed for solo travellers, couples, groups and families.

“As the leader in active travel, Backroads has spent the past 37 years continually in motion, always focused on turning great ideas into reality for our guests,” said Tom Hale, Backroads founder and president. “There’s much to be gained by exploring actively and immersing oneself in the life and culture of a new area and we believe river cruising is one of the best ways to travel actively while enjoying the comforts aboard a ship.”