AmaWaterways to Launch New Ships in South America

In early 2025, the river cruise operator plans to introduce seven-night sailings on Colombia’s Magdalena River, adding a new destination to its portfolio.

AmaWaterways soon will be the first major river cruise line sailing on Colombia’s Magdalena River. The brand new, specially designed AmaMagdalena will embark on her inaugural cruise March 15, 2025. A second ship, the AmaMelodia, is scheduled to start sailing on the Magdalena in June 2025.

Both the AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia are currently under construction, and AmaWaterways is finalizing the essential infrastructure for its new destination.

AmaWaterways originally had planned to launch its Colombia cruises in November 2024 but decided to delay the start. Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, explained, “This is the first time a major river cruise line is offering a journey of this nature on the Magdalena River. We’ve encountered challenges that are simply part of being pioneers.”

He added, “Opening a new river to the world is not easy, but it’s exactly these bold steps that allow us to offer our guests new experiences.”

Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, said, “Until now, exploring the Magdalena River region in comfort and ease was complicated, if not impossible. Our river cruises are changing that, offering the seamless experience AmaWaterways is known for, while also providing exclusive access to culturally significant and often inaccessible destinations.”

Sun Deck

Overview of AmaWaterways’ New Ships

The AmaMagdalena will hold 60 guests, the AmaMelodia 64 guests, with staterooms ranging from 237 to 306 square feet. Each ship will be 223 feet long and 43 feet wide. Take a look at the deck plans:

Luna Deck – Main Lounge, Sun Deck pool, spacious fitness lounge and massage room
Cumbia Deck – Main Restaurant, wheelhouse, reception area and some staterooms
Salsa Deck – More staterooms

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Dining Options Include Alfresco Experiences

All AmaWaterways ships offer fine dining and multiple venues, and the AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia will be no different. Guests enjoy unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. The Sip & Sail cocktail hour features complimentary beer, wine and spirits.

Main Restaurant

Passengers on the AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia can enjoy locally inspired Latin American cuisine and other fare in the Main Restaurant. The Main Lounge features al fresco dining experiences along with live music each evening. The Chef’s Table is the specialty restaurant.

A 16-seat restaurant will feature a Colombian chef preparing local cuisine. Onboard experiences will include tastings of tropical fruits, chocolate, rum and Colombian coffee.

Exploring Secluded Biodiverse Areas

AmaWaterways has been working with local communities developing infrastructure along the Magdalena River. Nine special excursion boats will allow guests to explore biodiverse areas. Local guides will lead these excursions.

AmaMagdalena’s Cruise Itineraries

The AmaMagdalena will offer two 7-night Magdalena River itineraries. “Wonders of Colombia” travels between Cartagena and Barranquilla, while “Magic of Colombia” sails from Barranquilla to Cartagena. Included excursions include historical walking tours, bird watching and small-boat trips. Guests can extend their sailing with pre- and post-cruise stays in various cities.

Options on the “Wonders of Colombia” itinerary include:

7-night cruise with 2 nights in Cartagena pre-cruise
7-night cruise with 3 nights in Medellin, 2 nights in Cartagena pre-cruise
7-night cruise with 3 nights in Panama City post-cruise
7-night cruise with 3 nights in Medellin, 2 nights in Cartagena pre-cruise and 3 nights in Panama City post-cruise

The “Magic of Colombia” itinerary offers similar options, including:

7-night cruise with 3 nights Medellin pre-cruise
7-night cruise with 3 nights Panama City post-cruise
7-night cruise with 3 nights in Medellin pre-cruise and 3 nights in Panama City post-cruise

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Main Lounge

About AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways, in addition to its upcoming Magdalena River program, has custom-designed ships sailing on Europe’s main rivers, Africa’s Chobe River, Southeast Asia’s Mekong River and Egypt’s Nile River.

Family-owned, AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 by pioneering river cruise line executives Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy. They continue to lead the industry with innovation. Cruise experiences include wellness activities and biking and hiking options.

Consider Booking a Magdalena River Cruise for Your Group

AmaWaterways’ expansion into Colombia gives group organizers a new cruise destination to offer their travelers – and new ships to enjoy. The attractive pre- and post-cruise possibilities provide another incentive for booking a journey on the Magdalena River.