AmaWaterways has revealed the first details of AmaRudi, its second double-width river ship, which will debut on the Danube River in early 2027 as Europe’s largest river cruise ship.
Building on the success of the award-winning AmaMagna, the new vessel will offer expanded public spaces, multiple dining venues, enhanced wellness facilities and new entertainment concepts while accommodating just 196 guests.
Honouring a river cruising pioneer
AmaRudi is the first ship in AmaWaterways’ history to be named after a man, recognising co-founder and Chairman Rudi Schreiner, whose vision helped shape the modern river cruise industry.
Born and raised near Austria’s Danube River, Schreiner said the new vessel represents both the evolution of river cruising and a personal milestone.
“AmaMagna changed what travellers believed was possible on a river cruise ship,” Schreiner said.
“We knew there would be a right time to revisit that concept, and with river cruising continuing to grow, that time is now.”
More space and new experiences
Designed with just 98 staterooms and suites, AmaRudi will feature several new guest experiences inspired by the destinations along the Danube.
Dining options will include Journey’s Restaurant, The Chef’s Table speciality restaurant, al fresco dining, a new Rudi’s Wine Bar and a Deck Club barbecue on the Sun Deck. Guests will also enjoy complimentary beer, soft drinks and a curated selection of more than 30 wines during lunch and dinner.
The ship will feature an expanded wellness area with massage treatment rooms, a fitness centre, hair and nail salon, and wellness programs led by dedicated Wellness Hosts.
A full-sized pickleball court on the Sun Deck will also provide guests with another active way to enjoy their time on board.
New entertainment venue
AmaRudi will debut a purpose-built entertainment hub featuring a cinema, karaoke, billiards and a jukebox, with soundproofing incorporated into the design to ensure guest comfort throughout the vessel.
The ship will also incorporate several sustainability initiatives, including Stage V engines, solar panels, shore power connectivity, lightweight construction materials and spud pole technology to improve operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Sailing from 2027
AmaWaterways Chief Executive Officer Catherine Powell said the new vessel reflects the company’s confidence in the future of river cruising.
“From the moment AmaMagna launched, travellers and travel advisors have been asking if we would ever build another ship like her,” Powell said.
“With AmaRudi, we’re taking that concept even further.”
AmaRudi is scheduled to begin sailing the Danube River in early 2027 on a selection of AmaWaterways’ most popular itineraries. Further details, including accommodation options and booking information, will be released in the coming months.
