With ample space the Sun Deck had sun loungers galore, and a large, heated plunge pool that was warm enough to ward off the winter temperatures. On many nights people were seen partaking in an evening dip!! Possibly fuelled by a little alcohol for extra warmth.
The Observation Lounge resembles a boutique hotel with contemporary colours and furniture to match. The front is all glass which makes fantastic viewing as you tootle down the Danube. In the main restaurant there is a good choice on the à la carte lunch and dinner menu which includes many classic and local dishes as you wind your way along the Danube. Our first evening on board started with a champagne reception, an introduction to the onboard staff and a personal welcome from the captain. As we left the Observation Lounge all the women were given a beautiful fresh red rose by the captain, such a lovely gesture.
Next, an exclusive and personal Oktoberfest celebration was arranged just for us. There was local beer, music, beer, dancing, more beer, games, more beer, and giant-sized pretzels to soak up some of that beer. Turns out the Germans are partial to a beer followed by yelling PROST!! as loud as they can and smashing the beer glasses together.
After mastering PROST! and the emptying of a small beer I retired to our room for a well-deserved rest. The following day we woke to beautiful countryside views. For early risers like myself the fitness classes began at 7am and I was surprised to see a few people at the class despite Oktoberfest.
Each evening, just before dinner, everyone gathers in the Observation Lounge for "sip and sail" cocktail hour. Here you catchup on the day's antics, try the cocktail of the day and make new friends before the cruise manager gives a briefing of the following day. Included in your cruise is a visit to the Chef's Table where you can enjoy a seven-course taster menu paired with matching wines. The menu is specially created by the Indonesian head chef using the best and freshest of ingredients. The restaurant features floor to ceiling windows with breath-taking views which only enhances the evening.
As an ocean cruiser I had no idea what to expect from the entertainment on board, and all I can say is it blew me away, fabulous. From a rock and roll guitarist, who packed the dance floor, to West End veteran Lindsay Hamilton who has played the role of Fantine in Les Misérables, the title role of Eva Peron in Evita and worked with theatre impresario Andrew Lloyd Webber. Throw in some Jazz and a resident pianist and every night had something for everyone.
I am very much looking forward to our next river cruise. AmaWaterways, their staff and this fabulous itinerary have ticked all the boxes. The cruise manager on board, Camille summed it up nicely, on a river cruise every day is a "SEE" day.
