Why We Want To Sail On AmaMagna In 2023

AmaMagna is by far AmaWaterways’ most unique ship but at nearly twice the width of a traditional river ship, it’s also one of the most unique vessels on the rivers of Europe.

I remember the first time I stepped on board AmaMagna. The ship made a “guest appearance” in Linz, Austria while I was sailing down the Danube on AmaViola. The floors were still covered by paper and cardboard as Magna was there to get her finishing touches but, even before she got her last few coats of paint and final polish, I knew that AmaMagna was going to shine.

Traditionally, river cruise ships measure around 38 feet wide. There are regulations on how wide these ships can be so that they can pass under bridges, over shallow water, and through narrow locks. AmaMagna measures nearly twice the width of a traditional vessel at 72 feet wide – and all that extra room means more amenities.

The extra space on board is noticeable in many areas of the ship, but is most obvious in the staterooms. Staterooms feel comparable to what you would find on an ocean ship. When I sailed on board AmaMagna in July 2019, I stayed in room 321. Measuring 355 square feet, this was one of the few staterooms where I’ve had room to truly spread out. (And, more importantly, there was actually room for all my clothes.)

At the entrance was the landing area, which lead to the bathroom, featuring a dual vanity and shower. The toilet was in a separate room, a nice feature for two (or more, some cabins can sleep up to four) sharing a stateroom. Through a dual set of doors, the living room and bedroom featured a comfortable sofa and a queen bed (that can be configured to two twin beds), 27-inch iMac computer with keyboard and mouse, a huge flat-screen television, closets, drawers, minibar (stocked with sodas and juices) and a balcony that resembled those I have seen on luxury ocean vessels.

AmaMagna's width does much more than allow AmaWaterways to offer its guests additional features, though. The ultra-wide vessel also brings changes in the social dynamic of river cruising, and for some travelers, those changes will be appealing.

On AmaWaterways' classic river cruise ships, nearly everyone goes to the same restaurant where they spend a couple of hours at dinner before exiting through the same door to trundle up a set of stairs to the ship's lounge. That’s fine for many folks, and some actually prefer this arrangement. For others, it may be too much togetherness. AmaMagna gives you the choice of both styles of cruising, with a main lounge, two libraries, a movie theatre, a sprawling sundeck and plenty of seating nooks scattered throughout. Groups can stick together if they wish while couples who prefer intimate moments can have it their way.

AmaWaterways' traditional ships have two dining venues included in the river cruise fare: the Main Dining room and The Chef's Table. The Main Dining Room features a variety of options, from classic meals to meals inspired by the day’s port of call. The Chef's Table is a smaller venue that features a tasting menu and requires reservation. On AmaMagna, two additional included restaurants have been added. Jimmy's Wine Bar offers family-style dinners; and Al Fresco features outdoor seating and retractable windows so guests can take in the views of the river while they dine. 

AmaMagna operates a series of itineraries on the Danube River ranging from 5- to 14-nights. The Magna on the Danube itinerary is similar to Ama’s Melodies of the Danube itinerary, taking passengers from Budapest, Hungary to Vilshofen, Germany, or the other way around. This itinerary provides a great overview of the Upper Danube with stops in capital cities like Vienna and Bratislava, as well as a chance to visit other towns like Salzburg, Linz, Cesky Krumlov and Passau. Prices for 2023 start at $2,699 per person.

AmaMagna also cruises the lower Danube, from Budapest, Hungary to Giurgiu, Romania. Guests who have sailed the upper Danube will experience the river in a different light as they visit Southeastern Europe. The lower Danube is far less touristic and commercialized than its western counterpart. Restaurants, cafes and bars are family-run and, in many instances, have been operating there for generations. AmaWaterways offers an extensive list of excursions in the region from hikes to bike tours to wine tastings. Prices on the lower Danube start at $2,999 per person.

Perhaps most enticing, though, is Ama's Grand Danube Cruise. A 14-night itinerary that combines the upper and lower Danube, sailing from Vilshofen, Germany to Giurgiu, Romania. AmaWaterways offers the Grand Danube Cruise on multiple ships, but I think a longer itinerary is perfectly suited for a ship like AmaMagna. 

As I mentioned, my stateroom on AmaMagna had ample storage for my belongings meaning that I could easily bring more clothes for a longer voyage. Plus, the ship features a laundromat on board, allowing guests to wash their clothes throughout their voyage. Now, while I can't say that my dream vacation involves washing loads of laundry, I always end up having to wash something and a washer and dryer makes things way easier than washing with Tide packets in my cabin sink. Prices for the Grand Danube Cruise start at $6,198 per person.

Select sailings on AmaMagna are currently eligible for AmaWaterways’ limited time complimentary land package offer, gifting guests a free land package on certain Europe and Egypt departures.

Want to learn more about AmaWaterways? See What Makes AmaWaterways Different

Article ID: ART5028

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