AmaWaterways christens new ship AmaSerena in Vilshofen

Michelle Fee, CEO and co-founder of US travel agency Cruise Planners, named AmaWaterways’ latest 164-passenger newbuild in Germany on 4 August.

Fee christened AmaSerena in Vilshofen after she concluded her inaugural seven-night ‘Melodies of the Danube’ cruise, which departed Budapest in Hungary on 29 July and called at destinations such as Bratislava, Slovakia; Vienna and Linz, Austria; and Passau, Germany.

She was joined by the cruise line’s co-founders, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, as well as Vilshofen mayor Florian Gams and second county commissioner Rainmund Kneidinger. “I am proud to have this opportunity to carry on a long tradition,” said Fee. “Serving as godmother for AmaWaterways’ AmaSerena is being a part of history and advancing the travel industry.”

AmaSerena’s christening ceremony included live performances by local musicians and entertainers, and a fireworks display. Attendees were also invited to sample authentic Bavarian cuisine.

“It is an exciting time for AmaWaterways as we welcome AmaSerena, our most innovative ship to-date, to our European fleet,” said Karst. “AmaWaterways takes great pride in selecting its godmothers and we are honoured to have Michelle Fee join our family. She has been a fantastic partner of ours over the years, always supporting AmaWaterways and encouraging her network of franchise owners and travel professionals to do the same.”

Designed as a sister ship to AmaReina, AmaPrima, AmaCerto and AmaSonata, the newbuild features the line’s first-ever connecting staterooms, its signature twin balconies, salon and spa services, a sun deck, multiple dining venues, wine rooms, fitness rooms and heated outdoor swimming pool with swim-up bar.

AmaSerena will offer several European river cruise itineraries including ‘The Enchanting Rhine’, ‘Magnificent Europe’ and ‘The Romantic Danube’, enabling guests to visit countries such as France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.