GREIN, AUSTRIA — AmaWaterways has officially welcomed its 23rd ship into its fleet with the recent christening of AmaMagna in Austria.

The ceremony, which took place in the city of Grein, was attended by AmaWaterways co-founders, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, along with Godmother Samantha Brown, an Emmy Award-winning television host and travel expert. After an official blessing of the ship and crew by a priest, Brown broke a champagne bottle against the ship’s hull to signify good luck on the journeys ahead.

Special guests and partners join co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst as Godmother Samantha Brown (fourth from left) christens AmaMagna

On selecting Brown as AmaMagna’s godmother, Karst said: “Samantha shares many values with our company, most notable through her PBS series ‘Places to Love’, where she discovers the emotional heart of travel through the people who are changing, challenging and strengthening a destination. She is a perfect fit as Godmother for this very special ship that is also challenging ideas of what river cruising can offer people in search of personalized travel experiences.”

AmaMagna is twice the width of traditional river cruise ships yet welcomes only 20% more guests, allowing for more personal space. All staterooms and suites are appointed with stylish décor and natural wood accents. Suites feature full outside balconies, open seating areas and luxurious bathrooms, complete with double sinks and walk-in showers. There are six Grand Suites measuring 474 square feet, and an Owner’s Suite spanning 710 square feet that boat separate seating areas and bathrooms with spa-like bathtubs.

Guests will also find four restaurants onboard, as well as a cinema, Zen Wellness Studio, a juice bar, two massage rooms, a sun deck with heated pool, and a whirlpool and sky bar. Plus, exclusive to AmaMagna, guests can take advantage of the Concierge Golf Program that provided the chance to experience four top-level golf courses in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany.

“With AmaMagna’s double width design allowing for more personal space, amenities and dining venues, I have had this unique ship on my mind for years and today we are thrilled to officially welcome her to the AmaWaterways family,” said Schreiner. “We are grateful to have so many of our friends and travel partners here with us as we celebrate this exciting time for our company.”