By
Rebecca Gibson |
AmaWaterways’ newest ship AmaLea has welcomed guests for the first time ahead of her official christening by travel industry executive Filomena Andre in Vilshofen, Germany on 26 May.
The 156-guest river cruise vessel embarked on her inaugural ‘Tulip Time’ voyage from Amsterdam in The Netherlands on 27 March and will call at destinations along the Dutch and Belgian waterways before returning to Amsterdam on 1 April. She will sail six of these cruises.
“We are thrilled to see AmaLea welcoming her first guests to enjoy her luxurious features, modern and spacious design and impeccable service as they sail an unforgettable ‘Tulip Time’ cruise,” said Rudi Schreiner, president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “I am confident our guests will appreciate the warm, pastel colours of the interior decor that marry so beautifully with the blooming tulip fields around them.”
Following her ‘Tulip Time’ itineraries, AmaLea will begin sailing seven-night cruises on the Danube River between Vilshofen and Budapest. Two of these will be themed wine cruises hosted by Amelia Ceja, president of Ceja Vineyards Napa in California, US and Frederick Frank, president of Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars in New York’s Finger Lakes Region.
Designed as sister ship to AmaKristina, AmaStella and AmaViola, the new AmaLea has AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony in most staterooms, as well as connecting and triple occupancy staterooms that cater for multi-generational travel groups. Other onboard amenities will include a heated sun deck pool with swim-up bar; hair and massage salons; a fitness centre; a main lounge for entertainment and relaxation; complimentary wi-fi across the ship; a fleet of bicycles; multiple dining venues, including The Chef’s Table speciality restaurant with its wine-paired tasting menu. New for 2018, guests will also be able to enjoy a daily Sip & Sail complimentary cocktail hour.