AmaWaterways has announced the suspension of its remaining 2020 river cruise season.

The suspension will see all of the cruise line’s remaining 2020 operations cancelled, including scheduled departures in Europe, Asia and Africa, but will not affect its chartered river cruise series on the Rhine – which has been in operation since July.

The suspension is a direct result of the travel uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which led to the global suspension of cruising earlier this year – and is still in operation for many cruise lines.

AmaWaterways will offer passengers booked onto a cancelled river cruise a future cruise credit.

The future cruise credit will equal 115 per cent of the original cruise value, allowing guests to rebook onto a river cruise in Europe, Asia or Africa – even upgrading their cabin or sailing.

Passengers will have until 31 December 2022 to use their credit.

Executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways, Kirstin Karst, said: “We are so thankful for the patience and understanding of our guests and travel agent partners.

“Although this year has brought many unprecedented challenges, it has also underscored the importance of facing these obstacles with flexibility and optimism.

“We are confident that our 2021 and 2022 river cruise season will create incredible experiences and cherished memories that are well worth the wait!”

As part of its 2021 programme, the luxury river cruise line will introduce two new ships to the Rhine and five new itineraries and land programmes throughout Europe.

AmaWaterways will also return to the Nile aboard the newly designed AmaDahlia for the ‘Secrets of Egypt and The Nile’ itineraries.

This itinerary will see cruisers explore the wonders of ancient Egypt and visit hotspot destinations on the fabled river.