Lüftner Cruises has officially welcomed the newest addition to its premium river cruise fleet: the AMADEUS Aurea. Combining elegant design, innovative technology, and a strong commitment to sustainability, the newly built vessel has now embarked on her maiden season sailing Europe’s Rhine and Danube rivers under the German flag.
The official christening ceremony took place in Amsterdam, where Kristie Keller - owner of Addicted to Adventures and a long-standing partner of the AMADEUS brand - served as godmother. In keeping with maritime tradition, she ceremoniously christened the ship by breaking a champagne bottle against the bow. Following the blessing of the vessel, invited guests and partners were welcomed aboard for an exclusive inaugural cruise through Amsterdam’s harbor, offering the first opportunity to experience the ship firsthand.
At 135 meters in length, the AMADEUS Aurea accommodates up to 158 guests in spacious surroundings designed to maximize comfort and panoramic river views. The ship features generously sized suites with walk-out balconies as well as bright, elegantly appointed staterooms. Public spaces include a refined spa and fitness area, the stylish Café Vienna, and an expansive sun deck with significantly enlarged open-air spaces and a heated pool.
In addition to its contemporary luxury, the AMADEUS Aurea introduces advanced environmental technologies aimed at reducing the ship’s ecological footprint. An intelligent hybrid propulsion system helps lower emissions, while solar panels, heat recovery systems, and state-of-the-art energy management ensure efficient onboard operations. Specially designed glass architecture further contributes to enhanced energy efficiency and onboard comfort.
“With the launch of the AMADEUS Aurea, we are continuing our long-term commitment to investing in the future of premium river cruising,” says Wolfgang Lüftner, founder and CEO of Lüftner Cruises. “Today’s travellers want meaningful experiences without compromising on quality, and our goal is to deliver exactly that — a refined river cruise experience that is both responsible and uncompromisingly luxurious.”
The AMADEUS Aurea will sail a selection of popular itineraries along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Highlights include the classic Rhine cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, showcasing charming riverside towns, vineyard landscapes, and cultural landmarks along one of Europe’s most iconic waterways. On the Danube, guests can experience the “Danube Rhapsody” round-trip itinerary from Passau, featuring visits to the imperial capitals of Vienna and Budapest, as well as the “Blue Danube” voyage from Nuremberg to Passau. During the festive season, the AMADEUS Aurea will also operate the enchanting “Magic of Advent” cruise from Strasbourg to Cologne, combining traditional Christmas markets with the elegance and comfort of luxury river cruising.