Journey along the Danube and see firsthand why this storied river has inspired generations of artists, poets and musicians. Indulge your passion for timeless architecture and art in three magnificent capitals: Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. Let the hills come alive with the sounds of music in Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District. Cruise through the enchanting Strudengau Valley and let the melodies of the Danube carry you from one gem to another on a regal journey through time. 

Mike Ward is an Italian Wine Scholar, a Certified Sommelier, Certified Wine Educator, Certified Specialist of Spirits and has successfully completed the Wine and Spirits Education Trust Level 3 Award in Wine. Mike completed certification at the Napa Valley Wine Educators Academy and is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, St. Louis Bailliage and serves as the Vice Echanson.

Mike began his career in the restaurant industry as general manager at some of St. Louis’s most popular restaurants, as well as holding the Food and Beverage Director position at top rated hotels. From early on, Mike had a fascination with wine. This led him to his position as Missouri State Wine Educator for a large beverage alcohol distributorship. Mike served as the Director of learning and Development at Breakthru Beverage. Mike’s passion for wine guided him, along with his wife Mary, to start Ward on Wine, LLC, a wine consultant and education company.

Mike’s philosophy is that wine is not only to be paired with food, but also to be paired with people. There is a wine out there for everyone, no matter what their story may be. Wine is to be celebrated, respected and enjoyed. There is a wine for every occasion, every journey, every place in time.

With over two decades of experience on the world’s rivers, AmaWaterways' family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what they do best: providing guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. As recipient of Cruise Critic's coveted "Best River Cruise Line" award, AmaWaterways offers you exciting journeys that are unrivaled on the rivers. Each day brings a genuine smile that warms the heart, every river a new culture that inspires, and each course a moment to savor and share.