AmaWaterways’ Latest Godmother Is A Former Travel Agent

AmaWaterways announced Tuesday that its newest ship, AmaLea, will honor a former travel agent and industry veteran.

AmaWaterways has named Filomena Andre, who began her career as a travel agent three decades ago, as the ship’s godmother when it debuts next year.

Andre got her start in travel at an agency before quickly moving into management positions, including spending a number of years as vice president of sales and marketing of Signature Travel Network.

She was appointed vice president of the American Automobile Association (AAA), overseeing travel products and services in 2010.

Today she is the head of product management, strategy and performance for the Auto Club organization, the largest AAA affiliate in the country.

“Filomena is such a well-respected travel industry leader and we are thrilled to welcome her as godmother of the stunning AmaLea,” executive vice president and co-owner Kristin Karst said.

In a statement, Andre called the distinction an “honor.”

AmaLea will be christened in Germany in May 2018, and enter service as a sister ship to AmaKristina, which was christened last May. It will sail six different Tulip Time itineraries from Amsterdam before four scheduled Christmas Market Cruises on the Danube.

AmaLea will feature four suite types, interconnecting staterooms and triple-occupancy staterooms that will accommodate multi-generational families. It will have also boast I hate boast multiple restaurants, including The Chef’s Table, a heated sun-deck swimming pool with a swim-up bar, a fitness center, spa, complimentary WiFi and a fleet of bicycles for self-guided or group tours on land.