AmaWaterways Introduces “Cooking with Mamie,” a New Immersive Culinary Experience in France

Guests to connect with French culture through the people who keep its traditions alive.

AmaWaterways is introducing a new culinary experience, Cooking with Mamie, offering guests a deeper and more personal connection to French culture through hands-on traditions both on board and ashore. Available exclusively on AmaDante and AmaLyra as part of the Paris & Normandy itinerary, the programme reflects the company’s continued focus on immersive, locally rooted experiences.

Developed in exclusive partnership with Atelier des Mamies, this unique offering brings authentic French grandmothers directly into the guest experience, both on board and in the heart of Paris.

“Our focus has always been on creating meaningful connections between our guests and the destinations they explore,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “With Cooking with Mamie, we are bringing local traditions to life in a very personal way, both on board and ashore, while continuing to offer experiences that feel authentic, intimate and truly memorable.”

The experience unfolds both on board and in the heart of Paris.

On board, a French grandmother joins the ship in Paris to host intimate cooking sessions for small groups of up to 10 guests. Together, they prepare classic French desserts such as tarte Tatin and madeleines, sharing techniques, stories and traditions passed down through generations. These sessions are included as part of the cruise experience.

In Paris, guests participating in the pre- or post-cruise land programme can take part in an optional experience, “Le Macaron: A Parisian Patisserie Experience,” held at Atelier des Mamies’ charming workshop in Montmartre. There, guests learn to craft macarons alongside a French grandmother in a warm and authentic setting.

“Cooking has always been about more than recipes; it’s about sharing stories, traditions and moments together,” said Chiara Nicolanti, founder of Atelier des Mamies. “Partnering with AmaWaterways felt like a natural fit, as we share a passion for local, immersive experiences. We’re delighted to share this experience with their guests, offering them a chance to learn, exchange and connect with French culture in a way that feels genuine and authentic.”

AmaWaterways land programmes extend the journey beyond the river, combining stays in centrally located four- and five-star hotels, daily breakfast, guided tours and immersive local experiences, along with seamless transfers between the airport, hotel and ship. Guests are accompanied throughout by dedicated Cruise Managers, ensuring a smooth and fully supported experience from start to finish.

With Cooking with Mamie, AmaWaterways continues to expand its range of enriching experiences that connect guests more deeply with the destinations they visit, bringing local culture, people and traditions to life both on board and ashore.