AmaWaterways has officially set sail in Colombia.

On Saturday, AmaMagdalena debuted on the Magdalena River, adding a new region to AmaWaterways¡¯ portfolio of river cruises. The expansion into Colombia represents ¡°a new chapter for AmaWaterways and for the world of river cruising,¡± says Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and chief executive officer of AmaWaterways.?

¡°We are proud to be the first major river cruise line to explore the Magdalena River, a region that until now has been largely inaccessible,¡± he adds. ¡°AmaMagdalena opens the door to a culturally rich destination, and we¡¯ve worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved¡ªfrom our guests to the people who call this river home.¡±

The 60-guest ship was designed in partnership with Colombian craftspeople and woodwork specialists. Collaborators who worked in the ship¡¯s design include architect and interior designer Camilo Restrepo, Marianna Schlegel Donado of Casa Schlegel Donado and Cartagena-based Ocean Projects.

Guests can enjoy a sun deck pool, a fitness room, a main restaurant offering Latin-inspired fare and an al fresco specialty dining venue. The ship is sailing two 7-night itineraries, ¡°Magic of Colombia¡± and ¡°Wonders of Colombia,¡± between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Along the way, travelers have an opportunity to participate in activities like birdwatching, a private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, a guided heritage tour and exclusive jazz performance in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, and a musical and historical exploration of Palenque.

Later this year, AmaWaterways will launch a second ship in the region, AmaMelodia,

¡°The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination¡ªit¡¯s about creating lasting connections between cultures, celebrating the rich history and natural beauty of the Magdalena River, and offering new opportunities for local communities,¡± says Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador of AmaWaterways. ¡°We¡¯ve seen locals lining the riverbanks, waving and cheering with joy as they see AmaMagdalena. It¡¯s a moment of pride, unity, and shared celebration for us and the communities along this majestic river.¡±

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