Renowned historian Mat McLachlan has announced an exciting new partnership with AmaWaterways to launch a series of history-themed river cruises for 2027. The collaboration combines Mat McLachlan’s expertise in bringing historical narratives to life with AmaWaterways’ award-winning luxury river cruise experience.
The new program features four distinct itineraries designed to immerse travellers in some of history’s most significant moments, from the battlefields of Europe to the ancient civilisations and modern conflicts of Southeast Asia.
Mat McLachlan said: “We are thrilled to partner with AmaWaterways to create a brand-new history-themed travel experience for 2027 and beyond. The river cruise experience AmaWaterways provides is second to none, and the rivers it sails are at the heart of history.
“Bookings on our four very special sailings for 2027 are now open, and as spaces are limited, I encourage you to book early. Our river cruises include exclusive battlefield touring excursions and on-board history seminars, access to one of our expert Historians throughout your cruise, and full access to AmaWaterways’ exquisite onboard experiences and shore excursions.”
Historian-Led Journeys
Each cruise will feature expert Historians accompanying guests throughout their journey, sharing stories and bringing the history of each region to life through exclusive on-board seminars and guided excursions to significant historical sites.
2027 Cruise Offerings
Anzac Day 2027 River Cruise – Holland and Belgium: This special 8-day voyage offers a new and unique way to commemorate Anzac Day while experiencing the beauty of Holland and Belgium during tulip season. The itinerary explores regional cultural highlights as well as three pivotal chapters of history: Waterloo, WWI, and WWII. The cruise’s highlight includes attending the moving Anzac Day service at the Menin Gate in the medieval walled city of Ypres, followed by exploration of WWI trenches, the battle-scarred Hill 60 with its massive crater and original German pillbox, and a visit to Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world.
Mat McLachlan 2027 Signature Cruise: Mat McLachlan will personally host his annual Signature Tour aboard an 8-day round-trip sailing from Amsterdam through Holland and Belgium, exploring three great battles: Waterloo, WWI, and WWII’s Band of Brothers campaign. The journey will commemorate significant anniversaries on the ground where history was made, including the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Menin Road near Ypres and the 83rd anniversary of Operation Market Garden – the largest airborne operation in history that ultimately became “a bridge too far.”
D-Day Anniversary Cruise: Taking place over the anniversary of the D-Day landings, guests will sail round-trip from Paris in 8-days through the picturesque countryside of France, visiting medieval castles and artist villages, before spending the 5th and 6th of June exploring the historic D-Day beaches – where the Allied forces launched their decisive assault on Nazi-occupied Europe.
Riches of the Mekong and Vietnam War Cruise: This Southeast Asian adventure includes 8-days sailing the Mekong River from Cambodia through Vietnam, uncovering the region’s ancient civilizations and modern conflicts. An optional 5-day land extension explores key Vietnam War sites in the south, including the Cu Chi Tunnels and Long Tan – the site of Australia’s most famous Vietnam War battle. The journey culminates with a Vietnam Veterans Day commemoration (18th August) at the Long Tan battlefield and the Long Tan Cross.
Partnership with AmaWaterways
Steve Richards, AmaWaterways Managing Director AU/NZ, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re excited to partner with Mat McLachlan and his great team at Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours to bring these extraordinary historical journeys to life. AmaWaterways’ commitment to providing immersive cultural experiences aboard our luxury vessels makes us the perfect partner for these specialised historical cruises.”
AmaWaterways has been providing innovative river cruise experiences for over two decades aboard luxurious, spacious vessels. The company’s award-winning culinary program features exquisite regionally inspired cuisine, with all onboard dining included plus complimentary hand-selected wines and local beers during lunch and dinner.
Mat McLachlan noted the vision underpinning the partnership: “Today’s travellers are seeking transformative experiences that blend luxury and learning. We’re witnessing an unprecedented surge in historical curiosity, and rivers have always been the arteries of civilisation – the channels where history unfolded. Partnering with AmaWaterways, the industry’s leading river cruise operator, allows us to create these extraordinary journeys where guests can literally sail through the pages of history while enjoying world-class hospitality.”
