AmaWaterways has christened AmaMagdalena on Tuesday 17 June in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox in Colombia.
As the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to navigate the iconic Magdalena River, AmaMagdalena marks a historic milestone not only for the company but also for the development of sustainable tourism in the region.
The festive ceremony was attended by local dignitaries including the Governor of the Bolivar Department and the Mayor of Mompox, along with national officials from the Ministries of Tourism, Transport, and Defense, as well as representatives from ProColombia, Fontur and Cormagdalena.
Their presence reflects the strong partnerships AmaWaterways has built with Colombia’s public and private sectors over the past three years to bring this pioneering project to life. Held outdoors, the celebration also drew many enthusiastic locals who gathered along the riverbanks to witness this historic moment for their community.
“Today’s christening ceremony in Mompox marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways, but for the future of river cruising,” AmaWaterways co-founder and CEO, Rudi Schreiner, said.
“AmaMagdalena represents years of collaboration, vision and trust between our team and our Colombian partners. By opening the Magdalena River to luxury river cruising, we are laying the foundation for sustainable tourism that will benefit travelers and local communities alike for generations to come.”
Serving as godmother to AmaMagdalena was esteemed interior designer and Colombian entrepreneur Marianna Schlegel Donado, who was born in Barranquilla and played a key role in the ship’s design. A former Queen of the Barranquilla Carnival and creative force at Casa Schlegel Donado, she infused the staterooms with locally inspired elegance and craftsmanship. Through her work, she has promoted Colombian design on an international stage and championed female entrepreneurship in the region.
“Being named godmother of AmaMagdalena is an incredible honor – both as a designer and as a proud Colombian,” Donado said. “This ship carries the soul of our country: its colors, its craftsmanship, its warmth. Seeing it sail the Magdalena River fills me with pride, not just for what we’ve built together, but for the opportunity it creates to share the beauty of Colombia with the world.”
Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena was custom designed in close collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and artisans. Led by acclaimed architect Camilo Restrepo, the ship’s creative vision draws inspiration from the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region. Interiors reflect a fusion of comfort and authenticity, featuring handcrafted woodwork by Cartagena-based Ocean Projects and furniture by Casa Schlegel Donado.
Guests onboard can enjoy an intimate and upscale experience with amenities including a Sun Deck pool, a fitness room, a Main Restaurant serving locally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites, and an al fresco specialty dining venue, the Bolivar Restaurant.
“The christening of AmaMagdalena is the realisation of a dream we’ve nurtured for many years. Standing here today in Mompox, surrounded by our Colombian partners and the vibrant community that helped bring this ship to life, is deeply meaningful,” AmaWaterways co-founder and chief brand ambassador, Kristin Karst, said.
“This ceremony is more than a celebration of a new ship – it’s a bold step forward in river cruising and a celebration of cultural discovery and the incredible journeys that lie ahead on this beautiful river.”
The ship offers two immersive seven-night itineraries – Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia – sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla. Excursions include a private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, an exclusive jazz performance in Mompox, birdwatching expeditions, and a visit to Palenque, the first free town in the Americas. Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are also available in Medellin, Cartagena, and Panama City.
“At ProColombia, we took a proactive role in making this milestone a reality, supporting a project that strengthens high-end tourism in our country,” ProColombia president, Carmen Caballero, said. “AmaMagdalena embodies what Colombia stands for: a vibrant, authentic destination filled with natural and cultural beauty. This achievement reflects the joint efforts between the private sector, local communities, and the government, marking a new chapter for the Magdalena River as a route for sustainable tourism.”
Later this year, AmaWaterways will expand its Colombia program with the debut of a second ship, AmaMelodia, further solidifying its commitment to the region.
