Friday, June 20, 2025

In a landmark moment for global river cruising and Colombian tourism, AmaWaterways officially introduced AmaMagdalena to its fleet during a grand naming ceremony held on June 17 in the heritage-rich city of Mompox, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This moment signifies a groundbreaking achievement for both Colombia and the world of luxury river cruising, as AmaMagdalena takes its place as the inaugural high-end river vessel to sail along the legendary Magdalena River.

The launch of AmaMagdalena symbolizes more than a fleet expansion—it opens an entirely new chapter in experiential travel through Latin America. With a focus on sustainable tourism and cultural immersion, this launch redefines expectations for river cruising in the region. Years of collaboration between AmaWaterways and local Colombian partners culminated in the ship’s debut, showcasing a shared commitment to connecting global travelers with the heart of Colombia’s heritage.

By venturing into previously under-explored waters, AmaWaterways becomes a pioneer in luxury river journeys in South America. The Magdalena River, with its rich biodiversity and deep cultural roots, offers an ideal backdrop for this elevated travel experience.

AmaMagdalena offers more than just modern comforts; it reflects the soul of Colombia. Each stateroom and public area has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate the colors, textures, and artistic heritage of the region. Intricate detailing, handcrafted textiles, and locally inspired décor create a vivid atmosphere that brings guests closer to the culture and spirit of the Colombian people.

The ship’s interiors draw inspiration from traditional Colombian design motifs while incorporating contemporary luxury elements. The outcome is a harmonious blend of sophistication and cultural richness, offering travelers a distinctive way to discover Colombia through refined comfort, artistic expression, and immersive narratives.

The ship’s christening took place in the colonial riverside town of Mompox, a city renowned for its historic architecture, artisanal goldsmith traditions, and cultural vibrancy. The ceremony was attended by government representatives, community leaders, and national agencies, demonstrating Colombia’s unified support for the tourism initiative.

Their attendance highlighted the significance of this milestone in advancing Colombia’s emerging river cruise tourism industry. Years of strategic cooperation between AmaWaterways and national institutions laid the groundwork for this launch, making it not only a commercial success but also a model of public-private partnership.

Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena promises an intimate and immersive cruising experience. Every aspect of the vessel has been designed to balance luxury with cultural exploration. Key amenities include:

Onboard hospitality is enhanced by a dedicated crew trained to deliver AmaWaterways’ signature high-touch service while sharing deep insights into the region’s culture, cuisine, and history.

AmaWaterways has crafted two immersive seven-night itineraries that sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla: and Wonders of Colombia. Both journeys are designed to spotlight the country’s cultural diversity, vibrant cities, and natural splendor.

Highlights of these itineraries include:

Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages extend the experience into other iconic Colombian cities like Medellín and Cartagena, and even internationally to Panama City, giving travelers the flexibility to explore the region more deeply.

The debut of AmaMagdalena sets the stage for long-term, sustainable tourism development along the Magdalena River. The cruise route introduces global travelers to less-visited parts of Colombia, encouraging responsible exploration and economic upliftment for local communities.

Through community-driven excursions, local partnerships, and culturally respectful programming, the cruise line aims to preserve the ecological and historical integrity of the Magdalena River Valley while generating inclusive economic opportunities.

This venture also plays a strategic role in Colombia’s broader tourism development goals. By spotlighting inland destinations like Mompox and Palenque, AmaWaterways contributes to decentralizing tourism away from overcrowded hubs, dispersing economic benefits more evenly across the country.

AmaWaterways’ entry into the South American river cruise market signals a bold vision for the future of global luxury travel. The Magdalena River offers untapped potential for storytelling, adventure, and cultural enrichment—qualities that are increasingly sought after by modern travelers.

With AmaMagdalena, travelers now have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Colombia from an entirely new perspective. This initiative is expected to pave the way for further expansion of high-end river cruising in Latin America, encouraging similar investments in infrastructure, hospitality, and cross-cultural exchange.

As AmaMagdalena embarks on its inaugural voyages, it carries not just passengers, but a new spirit of exploration and connection along the riverbanks of Colombia—where tradition meets innovation, and nature intertwines with history in a celebration of one of South America’s most majestic waterways.