AmaWaterways has named its first Colombia-based ship, AmaMagdalena in Mompox, marking the debut of luxury river cruising on the Magdalena River.
The 60-guest ship, designed with Colombian artisans and architect Camilo Restrepo, features a sun deck pool, fitness room, and restaurants serving Latin American and Western cuisine.
The christening, attended by Bolívar’s Governor, Mompox’s Mayor, and ProColombia representatives, reflects three years of collaboration with Colombia’s public and private sectors.
AmaMagdalena, with Marianna Schlegel Donado as godmother, sails seven-night Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia itineraries between Cartagena and Barranquilla, offering excursions like Barranquilla Carnival and Palenque visits.
The ship supports sustainable tourism, with optional land packages in Medellín, Cartagena, and Panama City, backed by ProColombia’s efforts to promote high-end tourism.
Rudi Schreiner shared: “The AmaMagdalena represents years of collaboration, vision and trust between our team and our Colombian partners. By opening the Magdalena River to luxury river cruising, we are laying the foundation for sustainable tourism that will benefit travelers and local communities alike for generations to come. Today’s christening ceremony in Mompox marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways but for the future of river cruising.”
Marianna Schlegel Donado shared: “Being named godmother of the AmaMagdalena is an incredible honor, both as a designer and as a proud Colombian. This ship carries the soul of our country: its colors, its craftsmanship, its warmth. Seeing it sail the Magdalena River fills me with pride, not just for what we’ve built together, but for the opportunity it creates to share the beauty of Colombia with the world.”
Kristin Karst shared: “The christening of the AmaMagdalena is the realization of a dream we’ve nurtured for many years. Standing here today in Mompox, surrounded by our Colombian partners and the vibrant community that helped bring this ship to life, is deeply meaningful. This ceremony is more than a celebration of a new ship — it’s a bold step forward in river cruising and a celebration of cultural discovery and the incredible journeys that lie ahead on this beautiful river.”
Carmen Caballero shared: “At ProColombia, we took a proactive role in making this milestone a reality, supporting a project that strengthens high-end tourism in our country. The AmaMagdalena embodies what Colombia stands for: a vibrant, authentic destination filled with natural and cultural beauty.”
