AmaWaterways' AmaLyra launched in 2009, joining nearly identical sister ships AmaDolce (2009), AmaCello (2008), AmaDante (2008), AmaLegro (2007) and AmaDagio (2006). The riverboat cruises along Europe's great inland waterways, including the Rhine, Mosel, Main and Danube.
Here's what you can expect on an AmaLyra cruise:
A cruise on AmaLyra is nearly all-inclusive. Beyond the standards –- food, accommodation, entertainment -- there's wine and beer with dinner, unlimited Internet access and guided tours in each port. There are also about 20 bikes available for tooling around onshore.
Standard cabins are 170 square feet. (AmaLyra also has four 255-square-ft. suites.) All cabins have "Infotainment" setups, basically flat-screen TV's with Internet access, movie and music libraries, bow and navigational cams and more. 82 percent of cabins feature a French balcony, a sliding glass door with railing. Cabins on the lower Piano deck feature picture windows right at the water line instead of French balconies.
AmaLyra has two lounges -- a large main lounge at the bow and a more intimate lounge located aft -- that offer panoramic views of Europe, as well as a sun deck with whirlpool. Other onboard amenities include an elevator, small fitness area and a treatment room.
