AmaWaterways' AmaLyra launched in 2009, joining nearly identical sister ships AmaDolce (2009), AmaCello (2008) and AmaDante (2008). The ship cruises along France's Seine River.
A cruise on AmaLyra is nearly all-inclusive. Beyond the standards - food, accommodation, entertainment, there's wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi access and guided tours in each port. There are also about 20 bikes available for tooling around onshore.
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 a lift, small fitness area and a treatment room.
Meals are served in the main restaurant on the Cello Deck, starting with a buffet breakfast with a made-to-order omelette station followed by a buffet-style lunch that also includes an à la carte menu. Dinner is waiter-served and, along with lunch, includes complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. AmaWaterways places a big emphasis on its food offering and is the only river cruise line member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a French culinary association.
The Chef's Table is the specialty dining venue and it's situated aft on the Violin Deck. Outside mealtimes passengers can order tapas-style snacks in the main lounge and bar. The lounge has panoramic windows and a dance floor and features daily music from the resident pianist, lectures and performances by visiting musicians, dancers and cultural artistes. There is also a 24-hour tea and coffee station, which is free of charge.
Standard cabins are 170 square feet. (AmaLyra also has three 255-square-ft. suites). All cabins have Entertainment-on-Demand centre, featuring complimentary Internet access via an Apple iMac, Hollywood’s newest releases and a selection of classic movies, news, sports and satellite TV, as well as a large selection of music channels, multi-jet showerheads in the bathroom, robes and climate-controlled air conditioning. Suites include a separate bathtub and shower, mini-bar and sitting area with a sofa and two chairs. Eighty-two 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.