In a pivotal moment for both global river cruising and Colombian tourism, AmaWaterways officially unveiled its newest vessel, AmaMagdalena, on June 17, 2025, during a grand naming ceremony held in the historic city of Mompox, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This launch marks a significant milestone as AmaMagdalena becomes the first high-end river vessel to navigate the iconic Magdalena River, signifying a groundbreaking achievement for Colombia and the luxury river cruising industry.

The introduction of AmaMagdalena transcends a mere fleet expansion; it inaugurates an entirely new chapter in experiential travel across Latin America. With a strong emphasis on sustainable tourism and deep cultural immersion, this initiative is poised to redefine standards for river cruising in the region. The debut of the ship is the culmination of years of dedicated collaboration between AmaWaterways and its local Colombian partners, highlighting a shared commitment to connecting international travelers with the authentic heart of Colombia’s rich heritage. By venturing into these previously under-explored waters, AmaWaterways establishes itself as a pioneering force in luxury river journeys within South America, leveraging the Magdalena River's rich biodiversity and profound cultural significance as an ideal backdrop for this elevated travel experience.

AmaMagdalena's design is a deliberate reflection of Colombia's soul, offering far more than just contemporary comforts. Every stateroom and public space has been meticulously crafted to celebrate the vibrant colors, diverse textures, and extensive artistic heritage of the region. Intricate detailing, locally handcrafted textiles, and culturally inspired décor collectively create a vivid and immersive atmosphere, drawing guests closer to the spirit and traditions of the Colombian people. The ship’s interiors ingeniously blend traditional Colombian design motifs with modern luxury elements, resulting in a harmonious fusion of sophistication and cultural richness. This approach provides travelers with a unique opportunity to explore Colombia through a lens of refined comfort, artistic expression, and compelling narratives.

The christening ceremony itself took place in Mompox, a colonial riverside town celebrated for its historical architecture, exquisite artisanal goldsmith traditions, and dynamic cultural scene. The event was graced by the presence of government representatives, community leaders, and national agencies, underscoring Colombia’s collective support for this tourism venture and emphasizing its strategic importance in advancing the nation’s burgeoning river cruise tourism sector. Years of strategic cooperation between AmaWaterways and national institutions laid the essential groundwork for this successful launch, positioning it not only as a commercial triumph but also as a model of effective public-private partnership.

Designed to host an intimate gathering of just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena promises a deeply personal and immersive cruising experience, with every detail meticulously planned to harmoniously balance luxury with authentic cultural exploration. Key amenities onboard include a expansive sun deck featuring a heated pool and breathtaking panoramic views of the Colombian countryside, a well-equipped fitness room catering to active travelers, and a main restaurant offering a delightful fusion of locally inspired Latin American dishes alongside familiar Western cuisine. An al fresco specialty dining venue provides an enchanting setting for open-air meals under the stars. The onboard hospitality is further elevated by a dedicated crew, extensively trained to deliver AmaWaterways’ renowned high-touch service while also sharing profound insights into the region’s rich culture, diverse cuisine, and storied history.

AmaWaterways has curated two enchanting seven-night itineraries, “Magic of Colombia” and “Wonders of Colombia,” both sailing between the vibrant cities of Cartagena and Barranquilla. These journeys are thoughtfully designed to showcase the country’s remarkable cultural diversity, lively urban centers, and stunning natural splendor. Highlights of these immersive itineraries include an exclusive private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, providing travelers with an intimate experience of Colombia’s most colorful festival; a captivating jazz performance in Mompox that pays tribute to the city’s profound musical legacy; guided birdwatching expeditions through the region’s biodiverse wetlands and lush riverbanks; and a significant historic visit to San Basilio de Palenque, recognized as the first free African town in the Americas and a powerful symbol of cultural resistance and heritage. Additionally, optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available, allowing travelers to extend their exploration into other iconic Colombian cities such as Medellín and Cartagena, and even internationally to Panama City, offering the flexibility to delve deeper into the region.

The debut of AmaMagdalena is a strategic move that paves the way for long-term, sustainable tourism development along the Magdalena River. By introducing global travelers to previously less-visited areas of Colombia, the cruise route actively encourages responsible exploration and fosters economic upliftment for local communities. Through thoughtfully designed community-driven excursions, strategic local partnerships, and culturally respectful programming, the cruise line is committed to preserving the ecological and historical integrity of the Magdalena River Valley while concurrently generating inclusive economic opportunities. This venture also plays a crucial role in Colombia’s broader tourism development objectives by highlighting inland destinations like Mompox and Palenque, thereby contributing to the decentralization of tourism away from overcrowded hubs and ensuring a more equitable distribution of economic benefits across the country.

AmaWaterways’ pioneering entry into the South American river cruise market signals a bold and forward-looking vision for the future of global luxury travel. The Magdalena River offers an immense untapped potential for compelling storytelling, exhilarating adventure, and profound cultural enrichment—qualities that are increasingly sought after by discerning modern travelers. With AmaMagdalena, travelers now have a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Colombia from an entirely fresh and intimate perspective. This initiative is expected to set a precedent for further expansion of high-end river cruising in Latin America, encouraging similar investments in vital infrastructure, high-quality hospitality, and valuable cross-cultural exchange. As AmaMagdalena embarks on its inaugural voyages, it carries not merely passengers, but a new spirit of exploration and connection along the historic riverbanks of Colombia, where ancient traditions gracefully converge with innovation, and breathtaking nature intertwines with a rich history in a profound celebration of one of South America’s most majestic waterways.