AmaWaterways has confirmed it will launch two vessels on Colombia’s Magdalena River when it debuts its program in just over 12 months’ time.
Five years in the making, and formally revealed in mid-2021, AmaWaterways had initially intended to operate the program with one custom-built ship, AmaMagdalena. When proposed, AmaWaterways said the vessel would carry less than 100 guests.
This morning [Friday 3 March 2023], AmaWaterways’ Co-Founders Kristen Karst and Rudi Schreiner revealed more details about the Colombia program on social media to the general public, including LATTE.
Schreiner confirmed the 30-stateroom AmaMagdalena‘s inaugural voyage will be on 30 March 2024, operating on the 7-night Wonders of Colombia itinerary between Cartagena and Barranquilla. AmaMagdalena will offer five stateroom and suite categories spread over two decks (Cumbia and Salsa): the Grand Suite (x2) at approx 48 sqm, Luxury Suite (x2) at 28 sqm, and the 22 sqm Category A (x14), Category B (x8) and Category C (x4). Each will offer either French balonies or a traditional balcony.
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The newly revealed second vessel, AmaMelodia, will enter service on 6 April 2024, operating on the 7-night Magic of Colombia voyage from Barranquilla to Cartagena. It will feature 32-berths, with the Grand Suite removed making way for an additional two Category B and two Junior Suites.
Both vessels will feature one restaurant (Cumbia deck) a lounge, fitness and massage rooms, and a pool on the top deck.
The itineraries will visit Palenque, Calamar, Santa Barbara de Pinto, Mompox, El Banco, Magangue and Nuena Venecia, with highlights including walking and cycling tours, birdwatching, scenic cruising and an exclusive ‘Carnaval’ performance each week in Barranquilla.
“We will celebrate Carnaval year-round,” Schreiner said.
AmaWaterways will offer pre-cruise packages in both Medellin (2 nights) and Cartagena (3 nights), which can be combined, and a 3-night Panama City package post-cruise that will include a visit to the Panama Canal.
Both itineraries are open for sale now, with Karst encouraging the audience of the ‘Sip & Sail’ event to “contact your travel agent” to make a reservation.