AmaWaterways postpones launch of Colombia itineraries

AmaWaterways has decided to postpone the launch of its new Colombia itineraries, PAX has learned.

The luxury river cruise line is set to become the first major company to offer cruises on the Magdalena River, sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla, with two seven-night itineraries.

The company’s AmaMagdalena ship was originally scheduled for this November, but she will now set sail in January 2025, according to a company statement shared with PAX.  

“As the first major river cruise line to explore this fascinating river and the destinations beyond its banks, it is of the utmost importance to us that we deliver the best possible experience for our guests, not only on board our newly-designed river cruise ships, but on shore as well,” wrote PR spokesperson Cléo Espérandieu in an email. 

“With this in mind, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the launch of our Colombia itineraries, which will give us the additional time we need to ensure our Magdalena River cruise and land journeys meet the high standards of quality our guests have come to expect – and for which AmaWaterways is renowned.”

AmaWaterways also has plans to launch a sistership for the region, AmaMelodia, in June 2025.

The new itineraries promise to take travellers down a unique river in the Caribbean region that offers historical villages and cultural traditions that have been recognized by UNESCO for their universal value.

U.S.-based global investment firm L Catterton acquired a “significant stake” in AmaWaterways, from a consortium of investors led by Certares last month. 

L Catterton joins Ama founders Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst, and the Murphy family, all of whom will “continue to have meaningful ownership” in the luxury cruise line, according to a press release issued at the time.

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