Mat McLachlan History Cruises
We chose AmaWaterways as our cruise partner because their philosophy aligns with ours: small groups, expert-led experiences and a genuine passion for cultural discovery. Their operational excellence means we can focus entirely on what we do best — bringing the history to life on the ground where it happened.
Every AmaWaterways river cruise is a wonderful holiday. A Mat McLachlan History Cruise gives it a story. Your expert Historian travels with you throughout the voyage, weaving the history of the places you visit into the fabric of the journey — through on-board seminars, conversations over dinner and exclusive battlefield shore excursions that take you to places most travellers never see. You still enjoy everything that makes an AmaWaterways cruise special: the luxury, the dining, the cultural excursions, the scenery, the relaxation. The difference is that when you sail past a quiet stretch of riverbank or step ashore in a beautiful French town, you understand what happened there — and why it matters.
AmaWaterways is a family-owned river cruise company founded in 2002. From a single vessel, the company has grown to a fleet of 29 custom-designed ships sailing the rivers of Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, Egypt and South America. Ships carry an average of just 156 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere that larger ocean cruise lines cannot match.
On Board
AmaWaterways’ elegantly appointed staterooms and suites offer generous space, with most featuring twin balconies for uninterrupted views of the passing scenery. On board, guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, Entertainment-on-Demand, a fitness room, a sun deck with heated pool or whirlpool, and group fitness classes. Massage, spa and hair salon treatments are available for a nominal fee.
Dining
The on-board dining programme is one of AmaWaterways’ great strengths. All meals are included, with regionally inspired cuisine prepared from fresh local ingredients. Complimentary hand-selected wines and local beers are served at lunch and dinner. For the ultimate culinary experience, The Chef’s Table offers an immersive multi-course tasting menu with master chefs cooking before your eyes.
On battlefield touring days, the ship’s kitchen prepares thoughtful packed lunches so your time on the ground is uninterrupted. Please advise any dietary requirements at time of booking.
Shore Excursions
Beyond our exclusive battlefield excursions, every History Cruise includes full access to AmaWaterways’ renowned cultural shore programme. Multiple excursions are offered at each port, run in small groups and tailored to three activity levels — gentle, regular and active. Complimentary bicycles are carried on board for guided rides or independent exploration.
