Join Us for a Private Pickleball River Cruise Charter With AmaWaterways!

Pickleball Activities Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the stunning AmaMagna, where pickleball enthusiasts can indulge in expert-led clinics and workshops on the ship's full-sized onboard pickleball court. Guided by seasoned professional, Frederic Sanchez, these sessions are designed to refine your skills and deepen your passion for this beloved sport, all while cruising along the serene waters of the Danube River. Beyond the court, we’ll arrange exclusive playing opportunities and friendly tournaments at select ports of call, allowing you to immerse yourself in the cultural charm of each destination. Imagine the thrill of playing pickleball against the backdrop of Vienna’s historic grandeur, the quaint beauty of Dürnstein, or the timeless allure of Budapest’s sparkling skyline. Each swing of the paddle will be enhanced by the breathtaking vistas of charming cities, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages, making this voyage an unparalleled blend of sport, camaraderie, and discovery.

Meet Frederic Sanchez

We are thrilled to welcome special guest Frederic Sanchez onboard the luxurious AmaMagna for this extraordinary pickleball journey. A seasoned expert in the sport, Frederic will lead both group and one-on-one pickleball workshops designed to refine your skills and elevate your game. Beyond the clinics, he will organize friendly matches and exciting tournaments, both on the ship’s full-sized pickleball court and at our picturesque ports of call. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best while enjoying the stunning scenery along the Danube River.

Frederic Sanchez is a former tennis player who started playing competitively at 8 years old and later became a renowned tennis instructor at the NBTA (Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy). After coaching adult and youth players at the NBTA in Florida, Frederic later opened and directed the NBTA European Headquarters in Belgium. Frederic has since relocated to Cincinnati and has brought his depth of knowledge and experience from tennis to pickleball. He has quickly climbed the ranks in the pickleball world, where he is currently competing in the Senior Pro Singles Tour, and has found success with incorporating this new style of play into pickleball.

Days 1 & 2 - Budapest, Hungary

Board the ultra-luxurious AmaMagna and settle into your stateroom. During your time in Budapest you will have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial.

Day 3 - Bratislava, Slovakia

Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings,” as you’ll discover during your walking tour. Or join a special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike to Bratislava’s gleaming castle.

Day 4 - Vienna, Austria

Vienna offers a wealth of gems and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, Vienna’s historic city center, and then visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral; or discover Vienna by bike. During the afternoon, visit the UNESCO-designated Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Built in the 18th century as an imperial summer residence, this magnificent 1,441-room Baroque palace is one of the most important architectural, cultural and historical monuments in Austria.

Day 5 - Dürnstein – Spitz, Austria

Enjoy your morning in the lovely Baroque village of Dürnstein. Stroll along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche, with its famed church tower on a walking tour. For a more culinary-focused experience in Dürnstein, enjoy an apricot liqueur and brandy tasting and special apricot treats from a local boutique. Those who wish a more active adventure of the area can hike to historic Dürnstein Fortress or cycle through Dürnstein. During the afternoon, explore Spitz, where you can visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey situated high atop the granite cliffs of the Danube; or get active with either a Spitz bike tour or hiking adventure. During the evening, be treated to an exclusive wine tasting experience where you’ll enjoy some of the regions famous wines, including Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.

Day 6 - Linz, Austria

For those who love The Sound of Music, enjoy a full-day excursion to Salzburg and tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael, where the famous wedding scene in the movie was filmed. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city’s picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. Following these full-day excursions, you may also choose to take a brief walking tour in Linz. Alternatively, join a walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or bike along the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube.

Day 7 - Passau, Germany – Vilshofen, German

For those who love The Sound of Music, enjoy a full-day excursion to Salzburg and tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael, where the famous wedding scene in the movie was filmed. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city’s picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. Following these full-day excursions, you may also choose to take a brief walking tour in Linz. Alternatively, join a walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or bike along the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube.

Day 8 - Vilshofen – Disembarkation

As your unforgettable journey comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the ship that has been your home on the water. With hearts full of cherished memories—of scenic landscapes, vibrant ports, meaningful connections, and the joy of playing pickleball in stunning European settings—you prepare to disembark, carrying the magic of your adventure with you. Whether you’re heading to the airport for your journey home or planning to continue exploring the wonders of Europe, these treasured moments will remain with you, a lasting reminder of the extraordinary experiences and discoveries made along the way.

Main Restaurant

Indulge in a delightful dining experience at this open-seating restaurant, where a sumptuous buffet breakfast awaits, featuring made-to-order specialties alongside freshly baked pastries and breads. The lunch buffet offers a vibrant selection of fresh salads, pasta dishes, savory hot entrées, and tempting desserts. Dinner transforms into a captivating multi-course affair, showcasing an array of local delicacies. For your enjoyment, complimentary regional wines, beer, and soft drinks are included with both lunch and dinner, while sparkling wine is served with breakfast. Additionally, bottled water, specialty teas, and coffees are always available at no extra charge.

Jimmy's Wine Bar Restaurant

Jimmy’s Wine Bar and Restaurant, located on Deck 1 of the AmaMagna, offers a unique dining experience inspired by the late Jimmy Murphy, co-founder of AmaWaterways. Designed to honor his deep love for family, the intimate restaurant serves dinner exclusively, with reservations required. The family-style concept invites guests to gather around long tables, sharing dishes from self-serve platters as if dining in Jimmy's own home. The warm, communal atmosphere reflects his ethos that family is at the heart of every experience. A celebration of togetherness and the joy of shared meals, Jimmy’s is a fitting tribute to the legacy of an Irishman who believed nothing was more important than family.

Jimmy's Wine Bar Restaurant

The Al Fresco Restaurant aboard the AmaMagna offers a relaxed yet delightful dining experience, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in a bright, inviting setting. The restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping views of the surroundings, and on pleasant days, they open to let in the fresh air. Breakfast and lunch offer lighter fare, with breakfast featuring classic options like eggs and oatmeal, while lunch allows you to order from the Main Restaurant’s menu. For dinner, a set menu presents a thoughtful selection of small, flavorful dishes that leave guests content but never overfull, with appetizers like goat cheese and marinated figs, cheese soup, and a refreshing beetroot and ginger granita.

The Chef's Table

In this exquisite, dinner-only restaurant, guests are treated to a truly elevated dining experience, where scenic river views set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Limited to just 24 fortunate diners, the restaurant offers a meticulously curated fixed tasting menu, accompanied by exceptional wines and specialty desserts. Each dish is beautifully presented, showcasing the artistry of the chefs, while the attentive service ensures every moment is one of refinement and indulgence. With every detail thoughtfully crafted, this intimate venue promises a sublime culinary journey that delights the senses and creates memories to cherish.