AmaWaterways released the first images of its revolutionary new ship – AmaMagna – celebrating her arrival as she set sail on an inaugural voyage from Vilshofen, Germany to  Budapest, Hungary. The photos showcase the design and elegant décor of a multi-level lounge and Main Restaurant, which features floor-to-ceiling windows. They also provide a first look at new dining venues – the Al Fresco Restaurant and Jimmy’s, the latter of which is named in honor of the late Jimmy Murphy, one of AmaWaterways’ original co-founders and co-owners.

AmaMagna is twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, yet welcomes only 20 percent more guests, allowing generous personal space – with more than half of the 98 staterooms designated as suites measuring between 355 square feet and 710 square feet. All staterooms and suites are appointed with stylish décor and natural wood accents. The suites feature full outside balconies, open seating areas and luxurious bathrooms, complete with double sinks and walk-in showers. Six Grand Suites (474 square feet) and an Owner’s Suite (710 sure feet) provide even more amenities with separate seating areas and sizable bathrooms complete with spa-like bathtubs.

We will get a firsthand look at AmaMagna on July 6 as we sail from Budapest to Vilshofen for the ship’s naming on July 11 in Grein, Austria.

The ship also provides enhanced entertainment offerings with an onboard cinema and amenities, including a large boutique; an expansive Zen Wellness Studio, complete with a large exercise area offering group classes  focused on stretching, cardio and core strengthening and spin classes led by a professionally trained Wellness Host,  a juice bar and two massage rooms, along with manicure, pedicure and hair services; and a sun deck with a large heated pool, relaxing whirlpool and sky bar. All sun deck facilities are easily accessible via an innovative pop-up elevator serving all four decks.

Exclusive to AmaMagna, guests may take advantage of a new Concierge Golf Program, providing the opportunity to experience four top-level golf courses in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany while enjoying the magic of river cruising. AmaMagna’s itineraries include Romantic Danube, Melodies of the Danube and Christmas Markets on the Danube.

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AmaMagna is the brainchild of AmaWaterways’ President and Co-founder Rudi Schreiner. “Dreams are fueled by an individual’s passion but usually accomplished through the creativity and hard work of many,” he said. “This ship 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.”

At an exclusive Oktoberfest welcome event in Vilshofen, Captain Jan de Bruijn, Cruise Manager Dragan and Hotel Services Manager Guido greeted AmaMagna’s first guests, many of whom were loyal AmaWaterways cruisers anxious to be among the first to experience the newest member of the family. Equally excited were first-time river cruisers like Barry Blake, traveling with the High Country Charity Foundation/Elk River Club group from Minnesota, who remarked “Wow! The ship is beyond believable.”

“The delighted reactions of our guests and travel partners when they embarked on this cruise is genuinely rewarding,” said Kristin Karst, 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.”

AmaMagna will be officially christened by her godmother, respected travel expert and Emmy Award-winning television host, Samantha Brown, during a July 11 christening ceremony in Grein, Austria.