Two couples share their first-time river cruising experience aboard the award-winning AmaMagna.

First-time river cruisers Mitchell and Maureen Greenstein go away every year on ocean cruises: Christmas in the Caribbean, summer cruises in the Mediterranean and more. But when their travel advisor insisted they try a Romantic Danube river cruise aboard AmaWaterways’ industry-defining flagship, AmaMagna, the couple was a little hesitant.

Accustomed to the space of ocean-faring ships and knowing very little about river cruising or the AmaMagna beforehand, Maureen admitted, “I was concerned about the size of the ship.”

Fellow first-time river cruisers Patti and Steve Nisenholz did plenty of reading about the one-of-a-kind AmaMagna prior to their departure and were still astounded by its size and design when they first saw the remarkable ship in person. Patti described it in just three words: “Awe. Awesome. Awe-inspiring.”

However, for the Greensteins, nothing topped the surprise and delight of opening the door to their stylish 355-square-foot AmaMagna suite.

A+ Accommodations

AmaMagna’s suites make up more than 50% of the ship’s accommodations and are coveted among discerning travelers who appreciate the enhanced luxuries and personal space offered by these havens of relaxation. Designed with ocean cruisers in mind, the ultra-spacious suites encompass a comfortable bed, desk, love seat and bathroom with large multi-jet glass-walled shower and double sinks. In addition, each suite features a full outside balcony and is adorned with contemporary touches, from a large-screen mounted television to atmospheric light dimmers – small details that make a big impact on guests.

“It was attractive and spacious,” recalled Maureen. “I was delighted.”

Mitchell agreed. “I was very surprised by the amount of space,” he said. “It was the best suite we’ve ever been in for storage. Usually there’s never enough room to put your clothes away. There wasn’t any wasted space and it was so comfortable.”

The thoughtful design of AmaMagna’s accommodations includes hidden under-the-bed storage that can hold several pieces of luggage, which has not gone unnoticed by guests. Patti and Steve Nisenholz were just as delighted as the Greensteins by this stateroom detail. “We had four pieces of luggage,” Steve said. “You could lift up the sides of the bed with underneath magnets and all of our luggage fit under there!”

Luxury is in the Details

When asked what struck them the most about their suite, Maureen, who is admittedly “very particular” about showers, mentioned the layout and space of the shower and spending time out on their full outside balcony.

AmaMagna’s balconies also captured the fancy of Patti Nisenholz, who shared, “I was out there twice a day. First thing in the morning to capture the sunrise and at the end of the day to reflect. It was just beyond. A fairytale come true.”

Maureen’s husband Mitchell raved about his own suite comforts. “The bed was unbelievable.” He also praised the in-room iPad from which the couple could easily book their excursions at any time. “That was a nice touch,” he said.

Although other AmaWaterways rivers and destinations have piqued their interest, the Greensteins aren’t necessarily ruling out a future river cruise aboard the AmaMagna. “It’s worth every dollar,” Mitchell said. “The crew was phenomenal and all the restaurants were really great. Even breakfast and lunch were phenomenal every day. Everything was far beyond our expectations. And I wouldn’t look at another river cruise company.”

The Nisenholzes shared his sentiments. “A day has not gone by in our lives that we have not talked about our cruise on the AmaMagna,” Patti admitted. “I will never cruise the ocean again. Ama means love, we found Ama and Ama found us. It’s a win-win all around.”

A Word About AmaMagna’s Suites

AmaMagna’s suites measure from 355 sq. ft. all the way up to 710 sq. ft. in its extraordinary Owner’s Suite. Each one offers exclusive amenities that include a welcome gift with champagne and a complimentary mobile Wi-Fi device to use ashore.

Book early to secure your suite on AmaMagna’s specially curated Magna on the Danube itinerary, or our Gems of Southeast Europe or select Christmas Markets on the Danube sailings.

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