By Anne Kalosh
AmaWaterways has just introduced AmaMagdalena, the first luxury vessel to sail Colombia’s Magdalena River.
Cruises between Cartagena and Barranquilla include cultural highlights such as a private celebration of the world-famous Barranquilla Carnival, a guided heritage tour and exclusive jazz performance in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox and a musical and historical exploration of Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas.
Also highlighted in this region of rich biodiversity are scenic cruising, sunrise and sunset nature experiences and some of the world’s best birdwatching.
The Magdalena’s lush riverbanks. * Photo: AmaWaterways
Magdalena River Cruises Are a Perfect Mix
Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways, has pioneered many river itineraries around the world. He considers the Magdalena “the prime river in Latin America” for its combination of nature and culture.
“This is a perfect mix,” Schreiner said. “Every day you have something exciting, something different.”
Excursions are included at each of the seven destinations, and encompass historic walking tours, live music (drumming, street jazz, cumbia), birdwatching and boating, enabling travelers to immerse themselves in this fascinating region.
Schreiner said AmaWaterways “worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved, from our guests to the people who call this river home.”
Lasting Connections Offered on Magdalena River Cruises
According to AmaWaterways co-founder and Chief Brand Ambassador Kristin Karst, the Magdalena program aims to create lasting connections between cultures and offer new economic opportunities for local communities.
“We’ve seen locals lining the riverbanks, waving and cheering with joy as they see AmaMagdalena. It’s a moment of pride, unity and shared celebration for us and the communities along this majestic river,” Karst said.
Two Seven-Night Routes
The two seven-night itineraries are offered year-round.
“Magic of Colombia” sails from Barranquilla to Cartagena, and “Wonders of Colombia“ from Cartagena to Barranquilla, visiting the same ports.
Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are available in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City, Panama.
The beautiful Spanish architecture of Colombia’s old cities. * Photo: AMA Waterways
Designed With Colombian Craftspeople
The 60-passenger AmaMagdalena was custom-designed in collaboration with Colombian craftspeople and woodwork specialists. The vessel’s creative vision, led by architect and interior designer Camilo Restrepo, was inspired by the region’s natural beauty.
The staterooms, which range from 237 square feet to 516 square feet, were built by Marianna Schlegel Donado of Casa Schlegel Donado from Barranquilla and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design.
Cartagena-based Ocean Projects brought their expert craftsmanship to river cruising, handcrafting AmaMagdalena’s woodwork.
Facilities include a panoramic lounge with bar, a main restaurant highlighting Latin American cuisine, an intimate alfresco specialty dining venue, a Sun Deck pool and a fitness room.
A rendering of the 60-pax AmaMagdalena.. * Image: AmaWaterways
Sister Vessel AmaMelodia
Later this year, AmaWaterways plans to introduce a second Magdalena vessel, AmaMelodia.
Fares for AmaWaterways’ Magdalena River Cruises
Cruises are currently priced starting at $3,339 per person in a 237-square-foot twin balcony room and range up to $6,838 in a grand suite. Rates include port charges, daily excursions; wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; a Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks; and Wi-Fi.
For more information, have a look at www.amawaterways.com or let QuirkyCruise help you with booking an AmaWaterways cruise.
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HEIDI SARNA
