AmaWaterways has been forced to push back the inaugural sailing of AmaMagdalena in Colombia to March 2025, with its sister ship, AmaMelodia, to follow in June next year.
AmaWaterways said the additional months would allow the company to finalise the “essential infrastructure for its new river cruise destination,” as it becomes the first major river cruise line to sail Colombia’s Magdalena river.
This is not the first delay for AmaMagdalena, which was first earmarked for launch in 2023, then delayed to January 2025, is claiming challenges were all part of “being pioneers” according to co-founder and president, Rudi Schreiner.
“Opening a new river to the world is not easy, but it’s exactly these kinds of bold steps that allow us to offer our guests new experiences” Schreiner said.
“The extended timeline will enable the river cruise line to refine the experience to meet the high standards guests have come to expect with AmaWaterways.”
Guests affected by the delay are being offered alternative arrangements, including the option to rebook for another destination or postpone their trip to later in 2025.
Colombia like you’ve never seen it before
“We’re offering our guests the chance to experience Colombia like never before,” co-founder and executive vice-president, Kristin Karst, said.
“Until now, exploring the Magdalena River region with comfort and ease was complicated, if not impossible. Our cruises are changing that, offering the seamless experience AmaWaterways is known for, while also providing exclusive access to culturally significant and often inaccessible destinations.”
Collaborating with local communities and officials to develop the necessary infrastructure along the Magdalena River, AmaWaterways will also launch nine custom-designed excursion boats for guests to explore secluded areas rich in biodiversity, opening up parts of Colombia rarely seen by travellers.
What can guests expect
Shore excursions are designed to allow guests to interact with Colombian indigenous communities, guided by experienced locals who not only enhance the cultural experience but also provide valuable employment opportunities for communities along the river.
“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,” Karst said.
“Economic growth, infrastructure development and community empowerment are at the heart of what we do in Colombia.”
Guests can expect to enjoy local tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and Colombian coffee tastings, with the culinary highlight of the experience will be an intimate restaurant, with just 16 seats, featuring a Colombian chef who will guide guests on a curated journey through the country’s flavours.
