Two AmaWaterways ships will sail on the Rhône and the Seine rivers in 2021, as the line looks to take advantage of increased demand for river cruising in France.

AmaKristina and AmaDante will start new French itineraries in spring 2021.

AmaDante joins three sister ships in France, while AmaKristina will be the first 443ft ship with twin-balcony staterooms to sail on French rivers.

Taking over the Colours of Province itinerary, AmaKristina will sail the Rhône between Lyon and Avignon.

The Impressions of the Seine & Paris itinerary is described by the line as suited for guests who are “looking to sail at a more leisurely pace between Paris and Le Havre”.

The cruise will feature a number of overnight visits and pre and post-cruise options, including two nights in Paris, three nights in St. Malo with a visit to the island monastery of Mont St. Michel, or one night in Paris.

The Essence of Burgundy & Provence sailing, between Chalon-sur-Saône and Arles, will give guests the chance to take part in French cooking classes at a culinary school and also includes pre and post stays – three nights in Geneva, or three in nights in Barcelona.

AmaWaterways executive vice-president and co-founder Kristin Karst said: “As godmother of AmaKristina, I am excited to witness her extraordinary ocean journey down the west coast of France and Portugal and across the Mediterranean Sea to reach the mouth of the Rhône river, where she will sail in 2021.

“AmaDante will join AmaLyra on the Seine and offer a leisurely itinerary with more beautiful scenic daytime cruising and many opportunities for biking and hiking, plus a fascinating pre or post-cruise optional stay in St. Malo, Brittany, with a visit to Mont St. Michel.”

AmaKristina recently completed a four-month series of charter cruises on the Rhine with enhanced health and safety protocols in place.

AmaWaterways is giving travel agents the chance to win a seven-night river cruise for themselves and a companion, as part of the Sell Five, Sail Free booking incentive.