According to US media reports, two of AmaSofia's three engines lost power before the 154-passenger vessel was towed by cargo ship to Koblenz, Germany, disrupting the itinerary.

The ship had a planned call in Rudesheim, Germany, on Wednesday (18 March), but passengers joined shore excursions during the unscheduled stop-off in Koblenz. The vast majority of passengers onboard are US-based travel agents. 

An AmaWaterways spokesperson told TTG: “We are currently addressing a technical issue affecting the ship, which is now safely stationed in Koblenz, Germany.

"In the meantime, our team on board are ensuring our guests are given the opportunity to continue their experience of the Rhine with a localised shore itinerary."

The spokesperson added: "We are grateful to be able to make thoughtful arrangements so our guests can continue traveling with us and enjoying our beautiful destinations.”

The ship features 76 staterooms, with suites ranging up to 350 square feet.

At AmaSofia's christening, which more than 1,200 travel agents attended, AmaWaterways chief executive Catherine Powell said: "Ships come to life through people, from the crew who pour pride into every detail, the guests who celebrate life’s moments on board to the travel advisors who inspire those journeys in the first place."