AmaWaterways officially christened of the first 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 Colombia.
“Today’s christening ceremony in Mompox marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways, but for the future of river cruising,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways. “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.”
The festive ceremony was attended by local dignitaries including the Governor of the Bolívar Department and the Mayor of the city 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 the pioneering project to life, Schreiner said. The celebration also drew many enthusiastic locals who gathered along the riverbanks to witness this historic moment for their community.
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.
The historic launch is a significant milestone for AmaWaterways, introducing a new region to its offerings beyond Europe, Asia and Africa and a pioneering tourist development in South America.
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. The interiors of the staterooms, which range from 237 to 516 square feet 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 favorites, and an intimate al fresco specialty dining venue.
AmaMagdalena sun deck–AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways has been collaborating closely with local communities and officials to develop the necessary infrastructure along the Magdalena River. Nine custom-designed excursion boats will allow guests to explore secluded areas rich in biodiversity, opening up parts of Colombia rarely seen by travelers.
“Our journey here isn’t just about exploration; it’s about forging new paths for our guests while contributing to the growth and development of the region,” says Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador of AmaWaterways. “Economic growth, infrastructure development and community empowerment are at the heart of what we do in Colombia.”
Onboard, guests will enjoy tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and Colombian coffee tastings, all designed to offer a deeper connection to Colombia’s traditions. The culinary highlight of the experience include an intimate restaurant, with just 16 seats, featuring a Colombian chef who will guide guests on a curated journey through the country’s flavors.
The two immersive seven-night itineraries, Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia 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 Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City.
Shore excursions are designed to allow guests to interact with indigenous communities, explore secluded natural wonders, and visit areas that are often out of reach. Each itinerary is guided by experienced locals who not only enhance the cultural experience but also provide valuable employment opportunities for communities along the river.
Birdwatching tours will captivate guests with more than 1,900 species of birds including the Cianeguo hummingbirds and the Chauna chavaria – only found in the Colombia region.
Colombia has a colorful culture–Metropolitan Touring
Story by Wallace Immen, The Cruisington Times
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