AmaWaterways Reschedules AmaMagdalena Debut to Early April

AmaWaterways has postponed the AmaMagdalena’s debut to early April due to minor issues. Passengers are still visiting Colombia and exploring via excursions. The company has expanded its local team and is promoting two new itineraries for future sailings on the Magdalena River.

AmaWaterways has postponed the debut of its river cruise ship, AmaMagdalena, to early April from the originally scheduled date of March 15. This delay is attributed to minor pending issues, as stated by Kristin Karst, the company’s co-founder and chief brand ambassador. The company intends to operate two ships on the Magdalena River, with historical cruise services having ceased over 50 years ago. Plans for this venture were initially announced in 2021.

Despite the deferment, travelers previously booked to sail on the AmaMagdalena continue to visit Colombia. Many are exploring the Magdalena River and the city of Cartagena through excursion boats, visiting significant locations such as Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas founded by escaped African slaves, and Barranquilla, renowned for its vibrant Carnival celebration, according to Karst.

AmaWaterways has recently expanded its team by hiring eight cruise managers for both AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia, which is scheduled to launch in June. Additionally, the company has established an office in Barranquilla, staffed with approximately 10 employees. The AmaMagdalena’s debut had been anticipated last November and was postponed to March 15 due to the inherent challenges of pioneering new river cruise developments.

Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways, emphasized the significance of this venture, highlighting that it is the first time a major river cruise line will operate on the Magdalena River. Schreiner remarked that such pioneering efforts facilitate unique travel experiences for guests. The cruise line is offering two itineraries for Colombia: the “Magic of Colombia” and the “Wonders of Colombia,” with seven-night voyages scheduled for 2025, 2026, and 2027. The Magic of Colombia itinerary will commence in Barranquilla and conclude in Cartagena, while the Wonders of Colombia will follow the reverse route. AmaWaterways’ website indicates a sailing for the Magic of Colombia on April 5.

In summary, AmaWaterways has announced a new launch date for the AmaMagdalena, now set for early April. The company has expanded its operations in Colombia amidst delays and is committed to offering travelers unique experiences along the Magdalena River. The introduction of pioneering itineraries reflects AmaWaterways’ dedication to exploring new destinations in river cruising.

Original Source: www.travelweekly.com