One of the privileges of working in travel (and more specifically, cruise), is getting to explore the new river and ocean-going ships, which is why I was so excited to sail on AmaWaterways’ beautiful AmaMagna on the Danube.

Launched last year, AmaWaterways’ new ship offers the latest innovations in river cruising. Built with a double-width hull at 22 metres wide, she has been designed to fit through the locks of the Danube (which are notably wider than on other European rivers). She will cruise the river’s famously ‘blue’ waters from Germany all the way to the Black Sea, depending on the itinerary.

We embarked in Vilshofen, bound for Budapest, and my guest and I were immediately impressed by the spacious ship’s fresh and contemporary decor, reminiscent of a luxury boutique hotel.

Spectacular staterooms

While being almost twice the width of traditional European river ships, AmaMagna accommodates just 196 passengers in 98 staterooms, giving it a truly intimate feel.

Our comfortable cabin on board comprised a king-sized bed, two windows, a generous en suite bathroom and large-screen TV. Air conditioning and cabin lighting were easily controlled by a touchscreen panel.

There are four categories of stateroom across the three decks of AmaMagna, comprising standard and balcony cabins, and the Owner’s and Grand suites.

For those passengers looking to splash out on their river cruise, the luxurious Grand Suite is stunning, offering a large balcony with sun lounger, an oval bathtub as well as a shower, and ample storage space. The king-sized bed is positioned just right to allow uninterrupted views of the river through the patio doors and a TV emerges from the foot of the bed on demand. All of the staterooms feature a stylish and muted colour palette.

Divine dining

The dining options are extremely varied with a choice of four venues for passengers. The main restaurant offers buffet or waiter service breakfast and lunch, while evenings are a somewhat grander affair with an a la carte five-course menu available.

The Chef’s Table is an intimate dining space where a seven-course taster menu is showcased with complimenting wines. Brand new venue Jimmy’s (named after AmaWaterways’ late co-owner Jimmy Murphy) is a unique concept offering ‘family style’ sharing plates with a wine bar called Aire for adults to enjoy.

Finally, the al-fresco restaurant at the front of the ships offers magnificent, uninterrupted views with buffet-style dining throughout the day and healthy Mediterranean cuisine in the evenings. Wine, beer and soft drinks are served during meals and champagne is on offer for those wishing to indulge in a mimosa at breakfast (it is your holiday, after all).

Smart sailing

Gone are the days of plain sailing; cruise lines are going above and beyond to deliver the most advanced technology to passengers. AmaWaterways recently developed a myAmaCruise mobile app designed for guests to be able to store photos, access information about itineraries, and send email postcards to friends and family at home.

The cruise line has also enhanced its cellular data across its European ships and those staying fortunate to be staying in suites on AmaMagna can enjoy mobile wi-fi devices that allow for complimentary internet connection as they explore European towns and villages.

Although the weather wasn’t quite warm enough when I was on board, there is a marina on deck 1 offering small craft exploration on summer days.

AmaWaterways has always prided itself on its wellness programmes and AmaMagna does not disappoint with its variety of options, including a fully-equipped Zen wellness centre, large fitness room, two massage rooms and a solid number of classes and activities aboard and ashore each day.

Yoga, Pilates, spin classes and bike tours proved popular among passengers, as did (hardly surprisingly) champagne yoga.

Other facilities to keep guests entertained while on board include 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 sea days.

Stepping ashore

All shore excursions are included in the cruise price with an AmaMagna sailing. Being a Loyalty Cruise, the itinerary included a few surprises for those who had cruised the Danube before. These included a hosted beer tasting in a cellar in Passau and a wine tasting evening at a vineyard in Spitz.

There were guests on board who had cruised an incredible 53 times with AmaWaterways and after experiencing one of the cruise line’s voyages for myself, it wasn’t difficult to understand why.

Danube river cruise: Selling tips

• Pre- or post-cruise stays of at least one night in Budapest, Vienna or Bucharest are a must to experience the history, arts and culture of these amazing cruises.
• You will find Europe’s most popular Christmas markets on the Danube.
• Music lovers can enjoy private concerts on land.

Visit amawaterways.co.uk for more information.

AmaMagna on the Danube, Vilshofen to Budapest, from £4,065pp for an outside balcony, 15-22 November 2020, amawaterways.co.uk.