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First look at AmaWaterways' double-wide AmaMagna, now in service

AmaMagna
The double-wide AmaMagna sports, from lower left, a selection of five bars, two libraries (pictured: the port side library) and four dining venues including The Chef's Table (click on images to enlarge) PHOTOS: AmaWaterways
AmaMagna sports elegant décor, a multi-level lounge and main restaurant that features floor-to-ceiling windows. New dining venues include the Alfresco Restaurant and Jimmy’s, named for the late Jimmy Murphy, one of AmaWaterways’ co-founders and co-owners.

AmaMagna set sail on its inaugural voyage from Vilshofen (Germany) to Budapest.

Rudi Schreiner's dream project

'Dreams are fueled by an individual’s passion but usually accomplished through the creativity and hard work of many,' AmaWaterways President and Co-founder Rudi Schreiner 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 Oktoberfest welcome event in Vilshofen, Capt. Jan de Bruijn led crew in welcoming the first passengers, many loyal AmaWaterways customers.

First-time river cruiser Barry Blake, traveling with the High Country Charity Foundation/Elk River Club group from Minnesota, called AmaMagna 'beyond believable' and said the The Chef's Table was exquisite.

Appeal to ocean cruisers

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

She added: '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.'

Spacious accommodations

AmaMagna is twice the width of traditional river cruise vessels, yet carries only 20% more passengers, allowing generous personal space. More than half the 98 accommodations are designated as suites measuring between 355 square feet and 710 square feet.

All accommodations 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 square feet) provide more amenities with separate seating areas and sizable bathrooms complete with spa-like bathtubs.

Cinema, Zen Wellness Studio, elevator serving all decks

Public venues include a cinema, a large boutique and an expansive Zen Wellness Studio, complete with a large area for group classes focused on stretching, cardio and core strengthening and spin classes led by a professional wellness host, a juice bar and two massage rooms, along with manicure, pedicure and hair services.

The deck has a large heated pool, whirlpool and sky bar. All sun deck facilities are easily accessible via a pop-up elevator serving all four decks.

Exclusive to AmaMagna is the new Concierge Golf Program, providing the opportunity to experience four top-level golf courses in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany.

Itineraries include 'Romantic Danube,' 'Melodies of the Danube' and 'Christmas Markets on the Danube.'

AmaMagna will be officially christened by television host Samantha Brown during a July 11 christening ceremony in Grein, Austria.