Phoenix Reisen Cruises Review: Cruise Ship Guide, Itineraries, Bookings & Deals

Phoenix Reisen is a German-based cruise line that has been providing unique and immersive travel experiences for over 40 years. The cruise line operates a fleet of 12 ships, each offering a personalized and intimate cruise experience with a focus on adventure, exploration, and cultural immersion. In this article, we will explore the history of Phoenix Reisen and its fleet of ships. Phoenix Reisen was founded in 1973 by Johannes Zurnieden, a former ship captain who saw an opportunity to provide high-quality cruise experiences to German-speaking travelers. The company started with just one ship, the MS Maxim Gorki, and quickly grew to become one of the leading cruise lines in Germany. Today, Phoenix Reisen operates a fleet of 12 ships, ranging in size from small expedition vessels to larger ocean liners.

In a Nutshell…

  1. MS Deutschland-World Odyssey: Built in 1998, this ship accommodates 520 to 636 passengers. It’s currently on a 106-day cruise from Tokyo to Bremerhaven.
  2. Amadea: Launched in 1991, the Amadea hosts 508 to 624 passengers. Its current voyage spans 94 days from Savona to Bremerhaven.
  3. Amera: With a 1988 origin, the Amera carries up to 835 passengers. It’s currently sailing for 143 days from Genoa to Bremerhaven.
  4. Artania: Built in 1984, the Artania accommodates 1188 to 1260 passengers. Its current cruise lasts 143 days from Hamburg to Savona.
  5. MS Amina: A new ship from 2024, the MS Amina embarks on a 5-day round-trip along the Rhine.
  6. MS Alisa: Launched in 2023, the MS Alisa is a year old and currently cruising the Rhine for 7 days.
  7. MS Antonia: Built in 2021, the MS Antonia offers a 5-day round-trip experience on the Rhine.
  8. MS Andrea: Constructed in 2020, the MS Andrea sails the Rhine for 4 days.
  9. MS Annabelle: Also built in 2020, the MS Annabelle’s current voyage spans 10 days on the Rhône.
  10. MS Annika: Departing from Cologne to Passau, the MS Annika is a 2020 vessel accommodating 184 passengers.

History of Phoenix Reisen Cruises

The history of Phoenix Reisen cruise ships is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and creating lasting memories for their passengers. With a rich heritage spanning several decades, Phoenix Reisen has become renowned for its dedication to quality, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of the needs and desires of cruise enthusiasts.

Phoenix Reisen traces its roots back to 1973 when it was founded by Johannes Zurnieden. Initially, the company operated as a tour operator, specializing in land-based vacations. However, recognizing the growing popularity of cruising, Phoenix Reisen expanded its offerings to include ocean and river cruises, marking the beginning of a new era.

The first cruise ship to join the Phoenix Reisen fleet was the MS Maxim Gorkiy in 1993. This iconic vessel, originally built in 1969, underwent extensive renovations to transform it into a comfortable and stylish cruise ship. The MS Maxim Gorkiy set the standard for the future Phoenix Reisen fleet, combining classic elegance with modern amenities.

Over the years, Phoenix Reisen continued to expand its fleet, adding more ships that embodied the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Each vessel was carefully selected and underwent meticulous refurbishments to meet the high standards set by Phoenix Reisen. The ships were designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for passengers, with spacious cabins, elegant interiors, and a range of amenities designed to enhance their journey.

One of the notable additions to the Phoenix Reisen fleet was the MS Amadea, which joined in 2006. This grand ocean liner quickly became a flagship vessel, known for its elegance, sophistication, and exceptional service. The MS Amadea embodied the spirit of traditional cruising, with its classic design, luxurious accommodations, and a wide range of onboard amenities and activities.

In addition to ocean cruises, Phoenix Reisen also established a strong presence in river cruising. The company introduced a series of river cruise ships, each carefully designed to navigate the picturesque waterways of Europe. These ships provided passengers with an intimate and immersive experience, allowing them to explore charming towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes along rivers such as the Rhine, Danube, and Moselle.

One of the key strengths of Phoenix Reisen is its dedication to maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere on board their ships. The company prides itself on its friendly and attentive staff members who go above and beyond to ensure passengers’ comfort and satisfaction. The crew members are known for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for the well-being of guests, creating a sense of familiarity and making passengers feel like part of the Phoenix Reisen family.

Throughout its history, Phoenix Reisen has been committed to providing exceptional value for its passengers. The company strives to offer a wide range of itineraries, catering to different preferences and interests. Whether it’s a leisurely ocean cruise or an immersive river cruise, Phoenix Reisen ensures that each journey is carefully curated to showcase the best of the destinations visited, with a focus on cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and enriching experiences.

In conclusion, the history of Phoenix Reisen cruise ships is a testament to the company’s dedication to providing unforgettable travel experiences. From its humble beginnings as a tour operator to its expansion into ocean and river cruising, Phoenix Reisen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere on board. With their elegant ships, attentive staff, and carefully curated itineraries, Phoenix Reisen continues to be a trusted name in the cruise industry, offering passengers the opportunity to embark on remarkable journeys filled with exploration, relaxation, and lifelong memories.

Destinations of Phoenix Reisen Cruises

This German travel agency offers a diverse array of itineraries, spanning both sea and river voyages. Here’s a detailed exploration of where their ships typically sail:

  1. MS Deutschland-World Odyssey: This iconic ship, built in 1998, embarks on an awe-inspiring 106-day cruise from Tokyo to Bremerhaven. Along the way, passengers experience the enchanting beauty of the Semester at Sea program, immersing themselves in global cultures.
  2. Amadea: Launched in 1991, the Amadea sets sail for a 94-day journey from Savona to Bremerhaven. Its elegant decks accommodate between 508 and 624 passengers, promising a luxurious and enriching experience.
  3. Amera: With its origins dating back to 1988, the Amera cruises for an impressive 143 days, tracing a route from Genoa to Bremerhaven. This ship, designed for 835 passengers, combines comfort with exploration.
  4. Artania: A classic vessel built in 1984, the Artania embarks on a 143-day voyage from Hamburg to Savona. Its spacious decks accommodate 1188 to 1260 passengers, making it an ideal choice for those seeking adventure.
  5. MS Amina: The newest addition to Phoenix Reisen’s fleet (2024), the MS Amina glides along the Rhine River on a delightful 5-day round-trip. Fresh and modern, this ship promises an unforgettable experience.
  6. MS Alisa: Launched in 2023, the MS Alisa, just a year old, offers a 7-day round-trip along the Rhine. Passengers revel in scenic vistas and impeccable service.
  7. MS Antonia: Constructed in 2021, the MS Antonia invites travelers on a 5-day round-trip along the Rhine. Its elegant design and attentive crew ensure a memorable journey.
  8. MS Andrea: Built in 2020, the MS Andrea cruises the Rhine for a delightful 4 days. Passengers soak in the picturesque landscapes and cultural gems.
  9. MS Annabelle: Also from 2020, the MS Annabelle embarks on a 10-day round-trip along the Rhône River. Wine regions, historic towns, and culinary delights await.
  10. MS Annika: Departing from Cologne to Passau, the MS Annika (2020) accommodates 184 passengers. This ship combines elegance with exploration.

Beyond these European river cruises, Phoenix Reisen ventures into unique and lesser-explored destinations:

  • Saipan and Guam (Mariana Islands): These Pacific gems feature in open-jaw cruises, along with calls in Tahiti, American Samoa, Western Samoa, and Japan .
  • Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, Black Seas, and the White Sea: Phoenix Reisen’s sea cruises span these diverse regions, promising unforgettable experiences.
  • Nile, Russian Rivers, and European Waterways: For river enthusiasts, the company offers captivating journeys along these historic and scenic routes.

Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural wonders, or culinary delights, Phoenix Reisen’s cruise ships navigate a world of possibilities, inviting you to explore and savor every moment.

Conclusion

One of the standout features of Phoenix Reisen is its commitment to providing a personalized and intimate cruise experience. The ships are designed to carry a smaller number of passengers, with a high staff-to-guest ratio and attentive service. The ships also feature a range of public spaces, including lounges, bars, and libraries, providing guests with plenty of space to relax and socialize.

The cabins on Phoenix Reisen ships are comfortable and well-appointed, with modern amenities and tasteful decor. The cabins feature comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and air conditioning, as well as windows or balconies that provide guests with stunning views of the passing scenery. The ships also feature a range of cabin categories to suit different budgets and preferences, from cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with private balconies.

The dining experience on Phoenix Reisen ships is exceptional, with a focus on regional cuisine and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The ships feature a range of dining options, from casual buffets to formal, multi-course meals. The menus are designed to showcase the flavors and ingredients of the destinations the ship visits, providing guests with a unique culinary experience. The ships also offer a range of beverages, including fine wines, beers, and spirits, as well as soft drinks and coffee.

The entertainment options on Phoenix Reisen ships are varied and engaging, with a focus on enrichment and cultural immersion. The ships offer a range of lectures and presentations, led by expert guides and local experts, providing guests with a unique insight into the history, culture, and traditions of the destinations they visit. The ships also offer a range of activities and excursions, including hiking, biking, and guided tours, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the destinations they visit in depth.

The ships’ staff is attentive and professional, ensuring that every guest is well taken care of and has a memorable experience onboard. The staff is knowledgeable and experienced, providing guests with a safe and comfortable journey. The ship’s crew is also passionate about exploration and adventure, providing guests with a unique and authentic travel experience.

Phoenix Reisen ships offer a range of itineraries and destinations, with a focus on Europe, Asia, and the Americas. The ships’ smaller size allows them to navigate narrow waterways and shallow waters, providing guests with access to destinations that larger ships cannot reach. The ships’ itineraries are designed to showcase the best of each destination, with a focus on cultural and historical landmarks, as well as natural wonders.

In conclusion, Phoenix Reisen ships offer a unique and immersive cruise experience that combines intimacy and adventure with luxury and comfort. The ships’ smaller size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience, with a high staff-to-guest ratio and attentive service. The cabins are comfortable and well-appointed, while the dining options are exceptional, with a focus on regional cuisine and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The entertainment options are varied and engaging, with a focus on enrichment and cultural immersion. The excursions and activities provide guests with the opportunity to explore the destinations they visit in depth. The ships’ staff is attentive and professional, ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience onboard. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time cruiser, Phoenix Reisen ships are sure to exceed your expectations.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson

Pin to Pinterest

Enjoyed this guide? Help others find it too! Share the following Pinterest pin to your Pinterest account, by simply clicking on the top left corner. And Remember: Sharing is Caring !

N.B. – The information on this review has been compiled by contributing author and Cruise Expert Silvester Thomson for thedigitalglobetrotter.com and is provided “as is” for the convenience of online readers. The Sources come from personal opinions, online research on official and unofficial websites, and in some cases with the help of AI generated content. It should not be taken as fact, as it can be mistaken or altered by future ship modifications from the cruise line done after review. Thedigitalglobetrotter.com does not and cannot verify all information and should not be taken as granted fact. All readers must take measures to find reliable facts by their travel agent or from the official page of the cruise line to verify any doubts.

* Some links posted in this article may represent an advertisement that provides a small compensation to the website owner