Revolutionary cruise on the danube

At 135 meters long and 22 meters wide — almost twice as large as other ships — this vessel hosts 196 passengers, which rivals the capacity of some usual-width counterparts.

THE construction journey of the ship itself has been a one-of-a-kind involvement.

From a lone ship in 2002, AmaWaterways, a visionary river cruise brand, now has a fleet of some two dozen vessels, to include their newest — yet biggest — the AmaMagna.

It started out as a family-run business between co-founders president Rudi Schreiner and wife Kristin Karst. They focused on memorable memories that they would relish and cherish as passengers, and thus, their foray into this industry started.

“We first had the vision for AmaMagna nearly seven years ago. Like the ship herself, the construction journey has been a one-of-a-kind involvement,” Schreiner said.

The trailblazing AmaMagna, which is twice the width of traditional river cruise ships, has journeyed across several bodies of water, symbolic of the boundaries it has broken with its innovative take on this leisure activity.

The name was bestowed upon the launch by godmother Samantha Brown, Emmy Award-winning television host and respected travel expert, as she recently officially christened the 23rd ship in the fleet.

At 135 meters long and 22 meters wide — almost twice as large as other ships — this vessel hosts 196 passengers, which rivals the capacity of some usual-width counterparts.

All staterooms and suites are appointed with stylish décor and natural wood accents, enough to rival other premier boutique hotels on land.

The suites feature full outside balconies, open seating areas and luxurious bathrooms, complete with double sinks and walk-in showers. Six Grand Suites and an Owner’s Suite provide even more amenities with sizable bathrooms complete with spa-like bathtubs.

Even the other suites are nothing to scoff at — boasting of giant flat-screen TVs, Apple computers with free WiFi, glass-enclosed showers and separate bathrooms. It easily beats out even upgraded accommodations elsewhere.

The upper decks likewise have a private balcony with a view unlike any other — no other boat docks beside the AmaMagna for it satisfies the docking requirements of two.

Exciting dining options abound, with lots of choices tailor fit for discerning taste buds.

The Al Fresco, with retractable ceiling and windows, situated in front of the ship, is open for self-service breakfast and lunches and sit-down dinners with vegetable-forward menus.

Jimmy’s Wine Bar, named after AmaWaterways’ late co-founder Jimmy Murphy, is a family-style diner decked with long wooden tables for a homely feel. Appetizers are served at the same time so sharing between all is highly encouraged, followed by simultaneously-served mains to round off the meal.

A seven-course menu awaits at the Chef’s Table, a restaurant that can accommodate one’s whims such as surf and turf for breakfasts and omelettes and toast for dinners — yet with a fine dining approach and sterling service.

Sky Bar – Sunset Deck AmaMagna – Amawaterways

Main Lounge Starboard – Deck 3 AmaMagna – Amawaterways

In all venues, wines, beers and sodas are complimentary for lunches and dinners, while the pre-dinner Sip and Sail cocktail hour at the lounge likewise provides free-flowing drinks for everyone.

For fitness buffs, worry not for AmaMagna has in-house gurus who host daily early morning stretching and warm-ups plus yoga classes to more intense programs as the day progresses. For those who appreciate peace and quiet, a gym is likewise complimentary for all on board.

Relax at the spa or get pampered at the sun deck, where you can get massages, manicures and pedicures.

For all these innovations that push the boundaries of the industry, Schreiner, affectionately known as the Godfather of River Cruising, recently received the esteemed Outstanding Contribution Award from Seatrade Cruise, a 13-year-old awarding body that recognizes the best of international cruise industry ambitions, innovations and successes.

“We are thrilled and excited to welcome AmaMagna into our repertoire of cruises on offer. Its groundbreaking amenities are one that travellers should definitely line up for,” shared Philippine travel veteran Teresita Henderson, founder of Intas Destinations, a multidisciplinary travel and tour operator with over 30 years of experience, which represents AmaWaterways in the country.

Due to its size, the AmaMagna sails on the Danube, where the locks are 24 meters wide, in seven-night cruises between Budapest and Vilshofen, sailing through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany. In 2020, she will embark on select one-week cruises on Eastern Europe, from Budapest to Giurgiu, and plans to progress through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.

For more information, contact Intas Destinations at 772-3314 or visit their website www.intastravel.com.