AmaWaterways co-founder Rudi Schreiner will step down from his chief executive officer role and transition to chairman of the board while president Catherine Powell will step up as the company’s new CEO.
Company founders Schreiner and Kristin Karst will remain on the AmaWaterways board with Karst to continue as chief brand ambassador.
“We are so excited about what we have been building – internationally with new markets, new passengers and, frankly a whole new generation of river cruisers. I am delighted that we are investing in the kind of leadership Catherine brings to the company. It’s a real inflection point, and I couldn’t be prouder,” Schreiner said.
“Rudi and I poured our hearts into building AmaWaterways – a company shaped by passion, innovation and strong personal connections. As we take this next step forward, we’re thrilled to welcome Catherine as CEO. Her global experience and leadership style reflect the values that have guided us from the beginning.
“I’m excited for the future and grateful to keep focusing on what I love most – nurturing the relationships with our travel partners, our guests and the local communities we visit, cultivating the shared success that comes from growing together,” Karst said.
Powell, a former Airbnb & Disney executive, was appointed president just three months ago. AmaWaterways said she brings an expansive view to the company, that will continue to build on the evolution of the luxury river cruise line as a category pioneer and leader in this industry since its inception in 2002.
“This is a dynamic moment of both growth and transformation for AmaWaterways and for the river cruising industry writ large,” Powell said. “Rudi is an icon in the industry, whose pioneering vision has shaped river cruising. From the design of the ships to every detail of the experience on board and on shore, Rudi has touched the lives of all the guests who have sailed with us. I am honored to be taking the mantle from Rudi and steering this incredible company into its next exciting chapter building on his legacy.”
AmaWaterways christened its newest luxury river cruise ship, AmaSintra, in April which embarked on its inaugural voyage along the Douro River in Portugal. Carrying just 102 guests, AmaSintra features 51 staterooms, most with an outside balcony and large floor-to-ceiling window, allowing guests to take in breathtaking views of the river from both their staterooms and private balconies. Onboard, guests will enjoy spacious public areas, including a Sun Deck pool, a fitness room, and a main restaurant offering regionally inspired cuisine along with international favourites.
The company is strategically expanding into new destinations and markets while making substantial investments in technology, digital platforms, and elevated customer experiences, said Jennifer Reid, partner and director at L Catterton.
“We extend our deepest appreciation for the remarkable vision and leadership that Rudi and Kristin have demonstrated in building AmaWaterways,” she said. “Looking ahead, we foresee significant growth opportunities.”
Added director and L Catterton managing partner, Marc Magliacano of Powell: “We are confident that Catherine’s deep experience in the travel industry and track-record of growth and success from her roles at both Disney and Airbnb make her uniquely suited to guide the company forward into the next phase of its journey.
“She understands the changing customer landscape and shifting consumer demand regarding how people want to travel and to experience luxury in a way that will drive the company forward, and that will meet growing expectations and the market’s demand for high-end travel experiences.”
