PHOTO: © AMAWATERWAYS
THE BASICS
Name: Kristin Karst
Title: Owner and Executive Vice President
Company, city: AmaWaterways; Calabasas, California
First job: After earning a degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management, I began in 1990 as a travel agent with American Express in Dresden, just before German reunification. That moment shaped my career and opened opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise have had.
Where to next: I’m heading to Europe for partner meetings, then I’ll host guests on our Europe’s Rivers & Castles cruise, sailing the romantic Moselle, Rhine and Main rivers from Luxembourg to Nuremberg.
A LITTLE BIT MORE
What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life?
Diane Kruger would be a delightful choice. We share German roots, and her multilingual, multicultural background reflects the openness I value and bring to my work.
What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry?
I’m passionate about food, wine and exceptional hospitality, so I would likely open a winery or a restaurant. That same passion now inspires my daughter, who is pursuing a culinary path.
What is your favorite book, movie or television show?
I’m currently reading Love in the Time of Cholera. Gabriel García Márquez’s portrayal of Colombia a century ago is captivating. As we prepare a new itinerary on the Magdalena River in Colombia, the book helps me better understand and appreciate the country’s culture and history.
What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with?
I admire Maya Angelou’s writing and perspective, and I would welcome the chance to share a conversation with her.
THE BUSINESS
What is your most recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it?
I’m driven by innovation and by listening closely to guest feedback. I regularly dine with guests while on sailings to learn directly from them. My current focus is on continuously enhancing our offerings—particularly in wellness, cuisine and sustainability—areas where we aim to lead the industry.
What is your favorite aspect of the job?
I love to travel, to explore new countries and cultures, and to engage with both guests and crew. In a typical year I spend more than 16 weeks onboard our ships, which I find energizing and inspiring.
What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken?
In 2002, as a young mother, I left a secure position to launch AmaWaterways. Many considered it risky, but I believed in our vision. In 2005 we shifted from chartering to building and owning our own ships—a larger leap that proved worthwhile. Today we own 25 custom-built ships, with more under construction.
Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry?
Rudi Schreiner, my business and life partner, whom many regard as the Godfather of River Cruising. His deep industry knowledge and relentless drive for innovation have been foundational to our success. I also greatly admire the industry leaders who have served as godmothers to our ships—women whose careers made lasting contributions to travel.
AS A TRAVELER
Tell us about a travel nightmare: I try to remain positive, and even difficult situations reveal a silver lining. Once, during a storm, I was stranded overnight at the Charlotte airport. Passengers formed a small community, helping one another through the night. When we finally departed the next day, it felt like saying goodbye to friends.
Share a comical travel experience: Growing up in the former East Germany, my early travel opportunities were limited to Eastern Europe. My first flight—from the Caucasus to the Black Sea—was memorable for its lively passengers and even chickens in cages onboard. I still remember the noise and the smells.
What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why?
River cruise ships are my favorite. They take you into the heart of countries, docking in the center of charming towns so you can unpack once and explore deeply. There’s no experience quite like it.
What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels?
Our cruise managers consistently go above and beyond. On one occasion a family accidentally left their five-year-old’s teddy bear after disembarkation. The cruise manager took a taxi to the airport to hand-deliver the toy to the child. Acts like that capture the caring spirit we strive for—and the little moments that create lasting memories.