UPDATE: The Ríobus Karakalí has now begun operations. Learn more about daily departure times by clicking HERE.
Barranquilla’s new RíoBus, nicknamed Karakalí, was made in Cartagena entirely of steel to ensure durability, taking into account the conditions of the river, and it has the capacity to transport a maximum of 60 passengers, including individuals with reduced mobility. The vessel, which has a maximum height of 4.5 meters, can navigate at speeds ranging from 20.37 to 31.48 kilometers per hour. The interior of the vessel features a rigid ceiling with a finished design, high-traffic flooring and walls, LED lights, and signage. The new Río Bus will be navigating the Magdalena River in Barranquilla soon.
“The Río Bus went through a process. Initially, the plans were submitted and approved by the Ministry of Transportation. Once this approval was received, it took six months to build,” said Barranquilla’s Mayor Jaime Pumarejo.
“With the Río Bus and Karakalí, a new era begins in Barranquilla,” wrote Mayor Pumarejo on his Twitter account. Regarding the route that the vessel will cover, the city’s mayor has stated that initially there will be two stops between the Intendencia Fluvial and the Grán Malecón, “but the idea is for it to take you all the way to Puerto Mocho.” The plan is for the Río Bus to eventually reach Malambo as well.
Alcaldia de Barranquilla: https://www.barranquilla.gov.co/mi-barranquilla/el-riobus-esta-listo-para-empezar-a-navegar-en-barranquilla