Phoenix Reisen: MS Aurelia Christened
On March 26, 2025, on the banks of the Rhine in Bonn, German cruise company Phoenix Reisen christened its new river cruise ship, MS Aurelia, during an intimate and heartfelt ceremony.
The event, in true Phoenix style, reflected the company’s philosophy of understated yet detail-oriented tourism. Serving as godmother was Bianca Rödig, daughter of sea chefs co-owner Helmut Rödig, while Pastor Raimund Blanke gave the ship a traditional Christian blessing, in keeping with German naval christening customs.
With the launch of MS Aurelia, Phoenix Reisen further strengthens its presence in the river cruise market—a segment that has seen steady growth in recent years thanks to a clientele increasingly drawn to slower, immersive travel rich in cultural experiences. The ship represents a new gem in the fleet of the renowned Bonn-based tour operator and joins its sister ship MS Amina, which debuted in 2024 to great acclaim.
Madrina Bianca Rödig e il Direttore Crociere Fluviali Michael Schulze
Built by the prestigious Rijfers Nautical Management shipyard, a long-standing trusted partner of Phoenix Reisen, MS Aurelia is a First-Class vessel designed to offer guests an exclusive yet authentic experience. The exterior is sleek and modern, while the interiors are defined by refined design, warm tones, and contemporary furnishings that create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. One of the most appreciated features among travelers is the spaciousness: MS Aurelia’s cabins are large, tastefully decorated, and equipped with every comfort. Most accommodations are spread across two panoramic decks and feature French balconies—an increasingly popular element in new-generation river cruise ships that allows guests to fully enjoy the riverscape from the privacy of their own room. This type of balcony has become a signature feature of onboard comfort.
As always, Phoenix Reisen entrusts onboard hospitality and culinary services to sea chefs, a leader in cruise hospitality. The long-standing collaboration between the two companies ensures high standards across both ocean and river cruises. On MS Aurelia, guests can enjoy dishes inspired by both international and German cuisine, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients and served in elegant yet informal settings. Attention to detail, the professionalism of the staff, and the quality of service have always been hallmarks of the Phoenix Reisen experience.
Phoenix_Reisen_Aurelia
Throughout 2025, MS Aurelia will sail primarily along the Rhine and the Danube—two of Europe’s most iconic rivers. These itineraries pass through regions rich in cultural and scenic appeal, stopping in historic cities such as Cologne, Rüdesheim, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. They offer passengers the chance to deeply explore local traditions, art, and history. Compared to ocean cruises, river cruises offer a more intimate experience with the destinations, thanks to shorter distances between ports and more frequent stops.
With this new addition, Phoenix Reisen continues to solidify its role as one of Germany’s leading tour operators, offering a consistent and reliable travel product. Unlike many companies that focus on scale, Phoenix Reisen chooses to prioritize quality, authenticity, and human connection. The debut of MS Aurelia strengthens Phoenix’s position as a benchmark in river cruising. Investing in a modern, sustainable vessel centered on guest well-being is a clear sign of the company’s commitment to innovation without losing sight of its core values.
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