AmaWaterways has officially welcomed AmaMagdalena, the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to navigate Colombia’s Magdalena River, to its fleet.
The historic launch on 12 April marked a significant milestone for the company and a transformative breakthrough for tourism in the country. The addition expands AmaWaterways’ portfolio, introducing a new region to its offerings beyond Europe, Asia and Africa.
“Our expansion into Colombia represents a new chapter for AmaWaterways and for the world of river cruising,” co-founder and CEO Rudi Schreiner said. “We are proud to be the first major river cruise line to explore the Magdalena River, a region that until now has been largely inaccessible. AmaMagdalena opens the door to a culturally rich destination, and we’ve worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved – from our guests to the people who call this river home.”
Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena was custom-designed in collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and woodwork specialists to bring the heart and soul of the region onboard. The ship’s creative vision, led by architect and interior designer Camilo Restrepo, was inspired by the region’s natural beauty to offer an intimate, upscale experience.
Staterooms, ranging from 22 to 48sqm, were built by interior designer Mariana Schlegel Donado of Casa Schlegel Donado from Barranquilla and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design. Cartagena-based Ocean Projects brought their expert craftsmanship to river cruising, handcrafting the ship’s woodwork.
Onboard amenities include a Sun Deck pool, spacious fitness room, a Main Restaurant offering regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites, and an intimate al fresco specialty dining venue.
The two immersive seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla and include unique cultural highlights such as a private celebration of the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival, a guided heritage tour and exclusive jazz performance in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, birdwatching of rare endemic species and a musical and historical exploration of Palenque – the first free town in the Americas. Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available in Medellin, Cartagena and Panama City.
“The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination – it’s about creating lasting connections between cultures, celebrating the rich history and natural beauty of the Magdalena River, and offering new opportunities for local communities,” AmaWaterways co-founder and chief brand ambassador, Kristin Karst, said. “We’ve seen locals lining the riverbanks, waving and cheering with joy as they see AmaMagdalena. It’s a moment of pride, unity, and shared celebration for us and the communities along this majestic river”
“We’re incredibly excited to see the first departure of our long-awaited river cruising on Colombia’s Magdalena River,” AmaWaterways managing director AU/NZ, Steve Richards, said. “Over five years of research and development have brought this vision to life; being the first ever river cruise line to travel these waters is a true testament to AmaWaterways’ pioneering spirit.
“We’ve seen strong bookings for Colombia coming out of Australia and New Zealand this year, with travel advisors telling us this has been very appealing to their well-travelled clients who have been everywhere and done everything. They’re looking for new stories and experiences, and to travel off the beaten track. That’s what a Colombian river cruise will offer them.”
AmaWaterways’ expansion into Colombia has been supported by ProColombia and local stakeholders, with a shared commitment to responsible tourism and community engagement. Through training initiatives and collaboration with local leaders, the program aims to create meaningful economic opportunities for riverside communities while preserving the cultural and ecological integrity of the region.
Later this year, AmaWaterways will launch AmaMelodia, its second ship on the Magdalena River, further expanding the company’s presence in Colombia.
