Two new AmaWaterways ships to offer river cruises in Colombia

Two new AmaWaterways ships will make their debut in 2024, offering cruises along the Magdelena river in Colombia.

AmaWaterways said it will be the first major river cruise line to explore Colombia’s Magdalena river when AmaMagdalena launches on March 30, 2024, and AmaMelodia begins sailing June 19, 2024.

AmaMagdalena will accommodate 60 passengers while the AmaMelodia will have capacity for 64. Prices for seven-night cruises start at £2,864 based on double occupancy.

Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have two beautiful ships joining our growing fleet of 26 award-winning river cruise ships and share details on the new itineraries cruising between Cartagena and Barranquilla along the Magdalena river.”

Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president, said: “Everything, from the design of our two stunning ships to the immersive curated itineraries, reflects our pioneering spirit and mission to provide our guests with top-of-the-line accommodations, warm and welcoming services, locally inspired cuisine and enriching experiences engaging with local communities along this fascinating river.

“We are extremely grateful for our travel agent partners and loyal guests who continue to support us.”

The ships will offer two seven-night itineraries: Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Highlights on these two itineraries include a special Carnaval celebration in Barranquilla, a tour of Unesco World Heritage site of Mompox, birdwatching tours and a visit to Palenque for a Drum Rhythms and Freedom Historical tour.

The cruise line also offers optional pre-cruise land packages in Medellín and Cartagena, and a post-cruise land package in Panama City, Panama.

Arturo Bravo, Colombia’s deputy minister of tourism, said: “We celebrate that AmaWaterways chose the Magdalena river to launch a river cruise, the first of this kind in the history of Colombia’s tourism industry.

“Once the trips start in 2024, little towns across the watercourse will be able to show international travellers their immense beauty and natural and cultural diversity.”

Travel agents in the UK can register for a webinar to learn more on March 16.