One of the many privileges of my long career in travel is to explore new River and Ocean-going ships, which is why I was excited to cruise the Danube aboard the beautiful AmaMagna in November.

Launched in May 2019 she offers new innovations in River Cruising. At 22 metres wide she is twice the width of most other European River Ships and specifically designed to sail The Danube. Depending on the itinerary she will ply the ‘Blue’ Waters from Germany all the way to the Black Sea.

There are four categories of stateroom across three decks; the Owners Suite being fully occupied for most future cruises. We were shown the stunning Grand Suite, offering a large balcony with sun lounger, plus an oval bath. The bed is positioned to allow uninterrupted views of the river through the patio doors and a massive TV emerges from the foot of the bed on demand.

Accommodating up to 196 Guests in 98 staterooms the AmaMagna appeals to active guests mainly from the UK, North America, Australia and Europe. English is the language used in all communications on board. We were pleased to see that the age range onboard varied, but I would say that the average age is around 55. There are interconnecting cabins for families who wish to travel with young children.

With four restaurants onboard the choice of dining options is impressive. The main restaurant offers buffet or waiter service breakfast and lunch, with a la carte 5 course menus on offer in the evening. The Chefs Table is an intimate dining space where a 7-course taster menu is showcased with complimenting wines. Jimmy’s offers ‘family style’ sharing plates with a wine bar. The Al Fresco restaurant at the front of the Ship offers magnificent views with buffet style dining throughout the day including healthy Mediterranean cuisine and late-night snacks. Wine, beer and soft drinks are served throughout meals and champagne is on offer for those wishing to partake with breakfast.

The design of the ship allows for a library, hairdressers, boutique and cinema. The sun deck houses a large outdoor pool with Whirlpool, ample walking track as well as seating areas for scenic cruising days.

Excursions are included in the Cruise price. We were lucky enough to visit a couple of the Christmas Markets including beautifully illuminated Vienna Market and a fascinating one in Budapest offering everything from “Rooster Testicle Stew” to fine linens and jewelry!

Being a ‘Loyalty Cruise’ the itinerary included surprises for those who had cruised the Danube before we experienced a Beer tasting in Passau and a Wine tasting evening in a vineyard in Spitz. There were guests onboard who had cruised 53 times with AmaWaterways, and I can see why.

This is my second cruise with AmaWaterways and I would thoroughly recommend trying the magnificent AmaMagna.

By Sue Alexander

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