AmaWaterways has christened AmaMagdalena in Colombia – the first luxury river cruise ship on the Magdalena River.
AmaWaterways CEO Rudi Schrienter says the attendance by the Governor of the Bolívar Department and the Mayor of Mompox, along with other dignitaries, indicates the “strong partnerships AmaWaterways has built with Colombia’s public and private sectors over the past three years to bring this pioneering project to life”.
“The christening ceremony in Mompox marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways, but for the future of river cruising.
“AmaMagdalena represents years of collaboration, vision and trust between our team and our Colombian partners.
“By opening the Magdalena River to luxury river cruising, we are laying the foundation for sustainable tourism that will benefit travellers and local communities alike for generations to come.”
Godmother to AmaMagdalena, interior designer and Colombian entrepreneur Marianna Schlegel Donado says, “Being named godmother of AmaMagdalena is an incredible honour – both as a designer and as a proud Colombian”.
“This ship carries the soul of our country: its colours, its craftsmanship, its warmth.
“Seeing it sail the Magdalena River fills me with pride, not just for what we’ve built together, but for the opportunity it creates to share the beauty of Colombia with the world.”
Colombia’s tourism promotion body ProColombia President Carmen Caballero says, “We took a proactive role in making this milestone a reality, supporting a project that strengthens high-end tourism in our country”.
“AmaMagdalena embodies what Colombia stands for: a vibrant, authentic destination filled with natural and cultural beauty.
“This achievement reflects the joint efforts between the private sector, local communities, and the government, marking a new chapter for the Magdalena River as a route for sustainable tourism.”
The ship offers two seven-night itineraries – Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia – sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla.
Excursions include a private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, an exclusive jazz performance in Mompox, birdwatching expeditions, and a visit to Palenque, the first free town in the Americas.
Later this year, AmaWaterways will debut a second ship, AmaMelodia.
For more information, visit AmaWaterways.
