AmaWaterways Postpones Colombia River Cruise Launch to Early April

AmaWaterways has delayed the debut of the AmaMagdalena river cruise in Colombia to early April from an original March 15 date. Passengers are currently exploring Colombia via excursions. The company has hired new staff and operates an office in Barranquilla, with future itineraries already planned for 2025 to 2027.

AmaWaterways has revised the launch date for the AmaMagdalena in Colombia to early April, moving it from the originally scheduled date of March 15. The delay is attributed to minor logistical issues, as stated by Kristin Karst, co-founder and chief brand ambassador of AmaWaterways.

The company intends to operate two vessels on the Magdalena River, marking the return of passenger cruises to the area after over fifty years. Initial announcements regarding this venture were made in 2021. Despite the postponement, passengers plan to visit Colombia and explore the Magdalena River through excursion boats while staying in Cartagena.

Travelers are visiting significant sites such as Palenque, known as the first “free town” in the Americas, and Barranquilla, famed for its carnival festivities. To enhance operations, AmaWaterways has recruited eight cruise managers for the AmaMagdalena and the forthcoming AmaMelodia, which is anticipated to launch in June. Furthermore, the company has established an office in Barranquilla, employing approximately ten staff members.

The AmaMagdalena’s debut was previously rescheduled from last November to March 15, with Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO, highlighting the inherent challenges of pioneering new river cruise ventures. He stated, “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 offers two distinct itineraries for future Colombia sailings—Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia—both comprising seven-night cruises set for 2025, 2026, and 2027. The Magic of Colombia itinerary commences from Barranquilla and concludes in Cartagena, while the Wonders of Colombia route operates in the opposite direction, starting in Cartagena and ending in Barranquilla. A specific sailing for the Magic of Colombia is scheduled for April 5, as indicated on the company’s website.

In summary, AmaWaterways has postponed the launch of its AmaMagdalena river cruise in Colombia to early April. Despite the delay, travelers are engaging with Colombia’s rich cultural heritage through local excursions. The company is preparing for its river cruise operations by hiring new staff and opening an office in Barranquilla. Future itineraries demonstrate a commitment to providing unique experiences along the Magdalena River.

Original Source: www.travelweekly.com