Cruise & Cruise Line

AmaWaterways Anticipates Trio of New Ships, More in 2019

Image: PHOTO: AmaWaterways' AmaKristina in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (photo by Jason Leppert)
Image: PHOTO: AmaWaterways' AmaKristina in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (photo by Jason Leppert)
Jason Leppert
by Jason Leppert
Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Sat November 18, 2017

2019 will be a big year for AmaWaterways as the river cruise line is set to launch not only the grand new AmaMagna but also two more sister ships.

All part of its new "Luxury of More" programming, the brand will additionally feature new activities, theme cruises and itineraries.

"Innovation is at the forefront of our business and we're always challenging our teams to think about 'what's next' in terms of services, itineraries and ship design," said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, in a press release.

"We can't wait to see the fruits of our labor and innovation enjoyed by our friends, family and guests!"

The European fleet expansion will mark the line's single largest since the company first began in 2002. As previously revealed, the AmaMagna will be a nearly double-wide riverboat scheduled for the Danube river.

The extra space will allow for most cabins to feature 355 square feet or more of private guest living area while still only accommodating 196 passengers. Occupants will additionally enjoy several dining opportunities such as an al fresco restaurant, as well as more activities and entertainment.

"Research has shown that many ocean cruisers and active travelers have yet to experience river cruising because they thought the staterooms were too small, or the dining options and activities too limited. We are confident that AmaMagna, with the additional space and more diverse onboard programs will overcome these objections and open up a whole new market for us," said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-owner of AmaWaterways, in the release.

"I've had this unique ship on my mind for many years and am confident that now is the time to introduce my vision. I can't wait to see AmaMagna sailing the Danube in 2019."

The ship is not entirely dissimilar to Crystal Cruises' Crystal Mozart in scale. However, unlike that dramatically redesigned existing vessel, the AmaMagna will be a complete new-build.

New itineraries in Bilbao and San Sebastian, Spain, as well as a post-cruise opportunity in Rwanda, Africa are on the way. In the latter, passengers can see Kigali and Volcanoes National Park and Silverback Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys, for example.

Complimentary shore excursions will also be bolstered in 2019 with extra choices such as ones in Prague, Paris and Romania.

"As we move towards 2019, we have continued to evolve our product to ensure guests experience the 'Luxury of More' when sailing with AmaWaterways," added Karst. "Whether it's the new ships, excursions or special theme cruises, we are confident that 2019 will be our best year yet!"


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Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert - Senior Writer, Cruises and Cruise Travel - is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 100 sailings...

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