Colombia achieves a historic event in terms of tourism and that is that starting in 2024 the first luxury river cruises will sail along the flow of the Magdalena River, which will be operated by AmaWaterways, an American company dedicated to this business that chose the South American country as the first market in America to launch this project, since the company only operates in Europe, Africa and Asia.
The ships, one of them called AmaMagdalena that will set sail on March 30, 2024, and AmaMelodia, which will begin on June 19, 2024, will sail through the destinations of Cartagena, Barranquilla, Mompox, El Banco, Calamar, Magangué, Santa Bárbara de Pinto, New Venice and Palenque. The first boat has capacity for 60 people, while the second has capacity for 64 guests.
“Everything from the design of our two stunning ships to the curated immersive itineraries reflects our pioneering spirit and mission to provide our guests with world-class accommodations, warm and welcoming services, locally inspired cuisine and enriching experiences that engage with the local communities along this fascinating river,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways. “We are extremely grateful for our travel advisory partners and loyal guests who continue to support us and are as excited as we are to discover this new continent for river cruising.”
For his part Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have two beautiful ships join our growing fleet of 26 award-winning river cruises, and to share details about the new itineraries sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla along along the Magdalena River. After visiting and falling in love with this region, we are very excited to now offer our guests the opportunity to discover the vibrant culture, unique traditions and natural beauty of Colombia.”
The boats offer river cruising experiences with luxury accommodations and panoramic views. Staterooms range from 237 to 516 square feet and all feature AmaWaterways' exclusive double balcony design, with a French balcony and an outside balcony. Additionally, guests can relax and unwind in the ship's pool, enjoy a massage, or work out in the fitness center.
“We celebrate that AmaWaterways chose the Magdalena River to launch a river cruise, the first of its kind in the history of the Colombian tourism industry. Once travel begins in 2024, the small towns along the waterway will be able to show international travelers its immense beauty. and natural and cultural diversity,” said Arturo Bravo, Vice Minister of Tourism.
On the other hand, Carmen Caballero, president of ProColombia, explained that: “In addition to the immediate benefits that these important trips will have on the social and economic development of our territories, it is worth mentioning that AmaWaterways seeks to supply its ships with products made in Colombia. This means that we also have an opportunity to match our diversified exportable offer and make it part of the tourism production chain. In short, great news for Colombia.”
Starting in spring 2024, guests will be able to choose between two seven-night itineraries, “Magic of Colombia” and “Wonders of Colombia.”
Sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla, both itineraries provide unforgettable experiences. Highlights of these two itineraries include:
Discover the soul and spirit of the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms” in a special Carnival celebration in Barranquilla with live performances reserved for AmaWaterways guests.
Explore the country's most fascinating cities through historical walking tours in destinations including Mompox, a UNESCO site that retains its colonial charm, where guests will be greeted by an exclusive jazz show.
Bird watching tours will captivate guests with more than 1,900 species of birds, including the Cianeguo and Chauna chavaria hummingbirds, found only in the Colombia region.
Visit Palenque, historically named the first “free city” in the Americas, where visitors will enjoy dancing to world-renowned musical styles such as cumbia and vallenato during a historic Drum Rhythms and Freedom tour.
Ride “Paola”, the main means of transportation in the town of Calamar.
Witness the natural beauty of the great Magdalena basin, which is home to many species of flora and fauna found nowhere else on the planet.