AmaWaterways this week launched its much-anticipated mega
ship, the AmaMagna.
The ship, the largest on Europe's waterways, sailed from Vilshofen,
Germany, to Budapest, Hungary.
The brainchild of AmaWaterways co-founder Rudi Schreiner,
the ship is nearly twice the width of traditional river ships but holds only 20%
more guests, offering not only larger cabins but expanded dining and
recreational venues.
More than half the staterooms are suites measuring between
355 to 710 square feet with full outside balconies, open seating areas and
bathrooms with double vanities and walk-in showers.
The AmaMagna's Al Fresco restaurant.
Capt. Jan de Bruijn greeted AmaMagna's first guests in a ceremony
in Vilshofen, many of whom the company said were loyal AmaWaterways cruisers
anxious to be the first to experience the newest ship in the fleet.
"The delighted reactions of our guests and travel
partners when they embarked on this cruise is genuinely rewarding," said Kristin
Karst, AmaWaterways' executive vice president and co-founder. "With the
choice of four distinct dining venues, five bars, elegant lounges and
exceptional accommodations, AmaMagna has been designed for those seeking a
fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on river cruising. This beautiful ship has
a direct appeal to ocean cruisers, who are accustomed to the luxury of
expansive personal space and a wide variety of leisure activities during their
vacation."
The starboard side of the AmaMagna's library.
In addition to the expanded dining and bar options, the
AmaMagna has an onboard cinema; a wellness studio with space for group fitness
classes, a juice bar, two massage rooms and manicure, pedicure and hair
services; and a sun deck with a large heated pool, whirlpool and sky bar.
Schreiner said the AmaMagna "represents a labor of love
for so many people who contributed groundbreaking ideas as well as a lot of
hard work that was done by the team to bring my dream project to reality."