NEW YORK — AmaWaterways is heading to Colombia for the first time ever, with help from Metropolitan Touring.

The cruise company has signed a groundbreaking new partnership with the South American tour operator that will make it the first luxury river cruise line to sail the Magdalena River, starting December 2023. The new river cruise experience will allow guests to be fully immersed in unique experiences both on shore and onboard a new custom-built, all-suite, eco-friendly river cruise ship.

Guests will be able to choose between two seven-night itineraries with pre- and post-cruise land programs. They’ll be accompanied by a skilled team, which will include a wellness manager onboard, and enjoy in-depth connections with local nature and wildlife as well as activities like kayaking, hiking and birdwatching.

Specific itineraries are currently being developed with more details to come in the coming weeks.

AmaWaterways’ President and Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, affectionately known as the ‘Godfather of River Cruising,’ shared his excitement over adding Colombia to the company’s portfolio.

“Not since my early university days of exploring the Amazon River have I felt the excitement of discovering a new destination that is so rich in biodiversity and culture as I found on the Magadalena River in Colombia,” he said. “I’m absolutely captivate by the rich history, wildlife and friendly welcome that awaits our guests when our intimate, al-suite ship sets sail in December 2023.”

Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways is equally excited to launch in the South American destination, adding: “We are celebrating 19 years of creating authentic river cruise experiences in Europe, Asia and Africa and now, with our world-recognized destination partner Metropolitan Touring, we will be able to offer our guests an opportunity to explore a fourth continent while discovering the hidden gems of Colombia along the majestic Magdalena River.”

Paulina Burbano de Lara, chief executive officer of Metropolitan Touring, said that Colombia has always been a country close to her heart.

“Every trip I’ve made to the Magdalena over many years has been full of amazing, life-affirming experiences that touched my soul,” she said. “Finding the right partner to develop the first-ever eco-friendly river cruise experience for Colombia was therefore of utmost importance to me and our company. We know that Rudi, Kristin and all the AmaWaterways team share our passion for the River Magdalena and we’re delighted that together we will create innovative and enriching experiences for guests.”

AmaWaterways and Metropolitan Touring will be hosting a joint virtual press conference this afternoon. Look for full coverage tomorrow in Travelweek Daily.