AmaWaterways has announced that AmaKristina earned a Green Award certification recognizing a high standard of safety, quality and environmental performance. The first river cruise ship ever to receive the certification, according to AmaWaterways, AmaKristina was presented with the award during a ceremony on January 30 in Arnhem, The Netherlands. Jan Fransen, executive director of the Green Award Foundation, presented the award plaque and a special Green Award flag to Wade Korzan, director of AmaWaterways’ European operations, and representatives from Rivertech, the company providing technical services to the luxury river cruise line.
Launched in 1994, the Green Award program is a voluntary independent accreditation process for ocean vessels, inland barges and now—with the induction of AmaKristina—river cruise ships. To earn the award, ships are evaluated based on standards that are more far-reaching than the statutory requirements and encompass the environmental impact of its engines, fuel consumption, waste and maintenance, pollution prevention and more. A growing number of ports participate in the program, such as the Port of Amsterdam, and offer substantial benefits to certified ships to promote safer, cleaner navigation on the world’s oceans and rivers and to advocate for an integrated approach for European inland waterways.
From left to right: Andre Slagter, corporate staff captain, Rivertech; Otto Groen, managing director, Rivertech; Wade Korzan, director European operations, AmaWaterways; Captain Jan Tensen; George Stefan, corporate Captain, Rivertech; Jan Fransen, executive director, Green Award Foundation; Richard Wubbeling, corporate fleet Captain, Rivertech
The award comes at an interesting time for the 156-guest AmaKristina, as 2020 marks her last sailing season on the Rhine River before transferring over to the Rhône River. Due to increased demand for sailings through France, the vessel will embark on the Rhône River in March 2021, traveling through the French countryside from Lyon to Avignon. Exclusive excursions and tours will highlight the romance, cuisine and fine arts of the region.
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