Colombians and visitors alike will be able to set sail on a Magdalena River luxury cruise starting in 2024. As announced by AmaWaterways, an American river cruise company that will start their new venture in Colombia in the coming months, two luxury cruises will sail the Magdalena River as of March 2024 and visit multiple cities along its route.
AmaWaterways has stated that tickets for the first departure of the first cruise are already sold out. Therefore, tourists should look at booking the next available reservation starting in March 2024. Guests can choose between two seven-night itineraries: “Magic of Colombia” or “Wonders of Colombia.”
Itinerary 1: Magic of Colombia
7- Night Cruise
CRUISE FROM : BARRANQUILLA TO CARTAGENA
Embrace the magic of Colombia as you explore the country along the magical Magdalena River during this special 7-night journey. Move to the beat of a variety of Latin American musical styles including cumbia and vallenato, and revel in exciting performances at a colorful Carnaval experience in Barranquilla just for AmaWaterways guests.
Itinerary 2: Wonders of Colombia
7- Night Cruise
CRUISE FROM : CARTAGENA TO BARRANQUILLA
Immerse yourself in the wonders that this South American country holds as you journey along the magnificent Magdalena River. Step through the streets of Palenque, the first free city in Colombia, moving to the rhythms of cumbia and vallenato, world-renown musical styles. Delight in the colorful neighborhood of Getsemaní in Cartagena, drinking in the vivid colors and culture displayed so artfully on the walls of homes, cafes and family-owned shops.
When do the first cruises set sail?
The first of the cruises will set sail on March 30, 2023, while the second one will depart on June 19, 2024. The ships, named AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodía, will travel to destinations such as Cartagena, Barranquilla, Mompox, El Banco, Calamar, Magangué, Santa Bárbara de Pinto, Nueva Venecia, and Palenque.
Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, the company operating the ships with a capacity of 60 guests (AmaMagdalena) and 64 guests (AmaMelodía), highlighted the cruise facilities, where tourists can immerse themselves in one of the most important rivers in Colombia.
“Everything, from the design of our two impressive ships to the curated immersive itineraries, reflects our pioneering spirit and our mission to provide our guests with top-notch accommodations, warm and welcoming services, locally inspired cuisine, and enriching experiences that interact with local communities along this fascinating river,” said the company’s vice president.
Similarly, Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, expressed that the arrival of the two cruises to the company’s fleet of boats will strengthen the company. He also mentioned that they will share new details about the “Magic of Colombia” and “Wonders of Colombia” itineraries in the coming days.
“We are absolutely delighted that two beautiful ships will join our growing fleet of 26 award-winning river cruises and share details about the new itineraries sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla along the Magdalena River,” said the co-founder and president of AmaWaterways.
Which organizations are involved with this project?
The project involved a group of government entities, including the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, ProColombia, Fontur, INNpulsa, Cormagdalena, and representatives from AmaWaterways. These organizations joined forces to ensure the success of the project and generate valuable economic and touristic benefits in the destinations the ships will visit for over three years.
Colombia became the first country chosen by the company in Latin America to carry out this proposal, which will enhance its luxury tourism catalog, especially for foreigners seeking new experiences in the country. In fact, the company highlighted that passengers will get to know the country’s history and culture through the iconic river.
What’s the price range for the Magdalena River luxury cruise?
Prices for both seven-night Magdalena River cruise itineraries start at $3,599 USD per person based on double occupancy.
These ships promise to offer river cruise experiences with luxurious accommodations and panoramic views. The cabins range in size from 237 to 516 square feet, all featuring AmaWaterways’ exclusive twin balcony design, including a French balcony and an outside balcony. Additionally, guests can enjoy moments of relaxation and leisure in the ship’s pool, have a massage, or exercise in the gym.
Some of the most relevant activities that guests on these cruises can enjoy include witnessing the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms,” a special carnival celebration in Barranquilla with live performances reserved for people on board.
Similarly, tourists can explore the most historic cities on foot, including Mompox, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves its colonial charm, where guests will be treated to an exclusive jazz performance, among other activities.
