AmaWaterways Launches Magdalena River Cruising in Colombia

It’s been a while since AmaWaterways first announced it was heading to Colombia and the Magdalena River back in 2021. Originally scheduled to launch in Novembre 2024, the ship’s debut in the country was pushed back to April 2025 to ensure the product was of the highest quality.

This week, the line’s first ship in the region – the AmaMagdalena – finally launched, marking a “significant milestone for the company and a transformative breakthrough for tourism in the country.”

“Our expansion into Colombia represents a new chapter for AmaWaterways and for the world of river cruising,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO 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. AmaMagdalena opens the door to a culturally rich destination, and we’ve worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved – from our guests to the people who call this river home.”

AmaMagdalena carries just 60 guests and was custom-designed in collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and woodwork specialists to bring regional influences onboard. Staterooms range in size from 237 to 516 square feet and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design.

Onboard amenities include a Sun Deck pool, fitness room, a Main Restaurant offering regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favorites, and an intimate al fresco specialty dining venue.

A second sister ship – the AmaMelodia – launches this summer. The river ships will sail two seven-night itineraries, the Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, both of which sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City.

“The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination – it’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,” said 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.”