CALABASAS, CA — AmaWaterways has rescheduled the inaugural sailing of AmaMagdalena to March 15, 2025.
Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, said the extra time will allow the cruise line to finalize the essential infrastructure for its newest river cruise destination: the Magdalena River in Colombia.
Rendering of AmaMagdalena
The extended timeline will also enable AmaWaterways to refine the experience to meet the high standards guests have come to expect from the company, he said.
The launch of AmaMelodia, the company’s second ship on the Magdalena River, remains on schedule for June 2025.
“This is the first time a major river cruise line is offering a journey of this nature on the Magdalena River. We’ve encountered challenges that are simply part of being pioneers,” said Schreiner. “Opening a new river to the world is not easy, but it’s exactly these kinds of bold steps that allow us to offer our guests new experiences.”
AmaWaterways is set to become the first major river cruise line to navigate the Magdalena River.
“We’re offering our guests the chance to experience Colombia like never before,” said Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice-president of AmaWaterways. “Until now, exploring the Magdalena River region with comfort and ease was complicated, if not impossible. Our cruises are changing that, offering the seamless experience AmaWaterways is known for, while also providing exclusive access to culturally significant and often inaccessible destinations.”
She said AmaWaterways has been collaborating closely with local communities and officials to develop the necessary infrastructure along the Magdalena River. Nine custom-designed excursion boats will allow guests to explore secluded areas rich in biodiversity.
“Our journey here isn’t just about exploration; it’s about forging new paths for our guests while contributing to the growth and development of the region,” added Karst. “Economic growth, infrastructure development and community empowerment are at the heart of what we do in Colombia.”
Guests affected by the delay are being offered alternative arrangements, including the option to rebook for another destination or postpone their trip to later in 2025.
