Following a visit to Colombia in 2021 AmaWaterways co-founders, Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, began making plans to bring the world of luxury river cruises to the Magdalena River. AmaWaterways will be the very first river cruise line to explore the hidden treasures of Colombia’s “River of Dreams”, known as being the spine of the country. Discover the stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture and gastronomic flavours of Colombia while enjoying the stylish and luxurious comforts of an AmaWaterways’ river cruise ship.
There are two 7-night South American itineraries to choose from; Wonders of Colombia (Cartagena to Barranquilla) and Magic of Colombia (Barranquilla to Cartagena).
The inaugural sailing will be 30th March 2024, and demand for the sailings is already huge!
These sailings will give you an authentic feeling of discovering a new, remote destination. The region has such a rich history, from golden treasures and pirates to the birth of traditional Colombian music.
Immerse yourself in Colombia’s unique heritage with exclusive experiences. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cartagena, a city renowned for its colonial architecture and rich history. Travel up Colombia’s longest river, the Magadalena, and visit the small towns and villages along the way, exploring the indigenous traditions and customs.
Highlights of a Magdalena river cruise include Mompox, a town situated on an island in the river known for being one of the best preserved colonial towns in South America. Visit the El Banco wetlands to observe wildlife, such as otters, caimans and birds, in their natural habitat. These river cruises also feature visits to significant cultural sites like the San Pedro de la Sierra monastery and the Hacienda La Gloria – a coffee plantation operating for over 150 years.
The New Ships: AmaMagdalena & AmaMelodia
AmaWaterways is building 2 ships for these stunning sailings, the AmaMagdalena (launching 30 March 2024) and the AmaMelodia (launching June 2024). The ships will be built to the same high specifications as AmaWaterways European ships, however the ships will be much smaller, accommodating a maximum of just 60/64 passengers respectively. Drawing on inspiration from local architecture and culture, the ships will be furnished in a style befitting the Colombian influence. To those that have already experienced river cruising in Europe with AmaWaterways, the double balcony staterooms will be a familiar and welcome sight. The ships are far shorter than European ships, but they will be much wider, as they’re not constrained by lock sizes, so you’ll discover that the staterooms are in fact slightly larger!
A Colombian river cruise with AmaWaterways offers guests a rich, cultural experience in ultimate luxury. With spacious cabins, elegant designs and exceptional service, passengers don’t have to worry about anything. Guests can also enjoy gourmet, locally-sourced meals, premium wines and a wide selection of onboard amenities and activities. Expect spectacular culinary creations, maybe enhanced with a touch of local coffee or cacao.
Exciting Land Package Extensions
Of course, a visit to Colombia offers the opportunity for some incredible optional land packages!
Add 2 nights in Cartagena before your Wonders of Colombia river cruise, and enjoy a more in-depth exploration of the city, with castles and museum visits included, in addition to walking tours of the city walls and vaults.
If coffee is a passion for you, then a 3-night pre-cruise stay in Medellín is the one for you! Prior to joining the Magic of Colombia river cruise, take in a full day coffee tour with tastings; and of course a city tour of Colombia’s second-largest city (after Bogota).
The two land packages for Medellín and Cartagena can be combined, making a wonderful 5-night pre-cruise stay when combined with the Wonders of Colombia.
Colombia’s proximity to Panama makes it ideal to combine the 2 countries. Add a 3-night stay in Panama City following either itinerary, and enjoy the delights of the Old Town, stunning Chagres National Park, and even the Panama Canal!
If you’re looking for a new adventure with authentic cultural exchanges; then journey into the Tropics and set sail along the Magdalena with AmaWaterways. Discover the culture, sights, sounds and cuisine of the region where the Andes meets the Caribbean Sea.
Find out more, from AmaWaterways themselves, as they introduce this wonderful new river cruising option:
Call our Cruise Experts for more information, or to book, on 0800 810 8481 or send us an enquiry using the form below.
