AmaWaterways delays launch of new vessel citing ‘challenges of being a pioneer’
AmaWaterways has pushed back the launch of its new Colombia-based AmaMagdalena ship into 2025, putting the delay down to the "challenges" inherent in being a "pioneer".
The luxury river line had planned to launch the first of two vessels on the Magdalena River in November 2024.
However, Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and president of AmaWaterways, said: “This is the first time a major river cruise line is offering a journey of this nature on the Magdalena River. We’ve encountered challenges that are simply part of being pioneers.
“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.”
The ship will now launch on 15 March 2025 and affected guests are being offered alternative arrangements, including the option to rebook to another destination or postpone travelling to later in 2025.
The line said it is “collaborating closely” with local officials to develop infrastructure along the river.
Guests will be able to explore secluded areas rich in biodiversity, “opening up parts of Colombia rarely seen by travellers”, on nine custom-designed excursion boats.
They can also join tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and Colombian coffee tastings on AmaMagdalena.
A 16-seat restaurant will also be available on the ship, featuring a Colombian chef who “will guide guests on a curated journey through the country’s flavours”, the line said.
Shore excursions have been designed to allow guests to interact with Indigenous communities and explore “secluded natural wonders”.
Kristin Karst, co-founder and executive vice-president of AmaWaterways, said: “Until now, exploring the Magdalena River region with comfort and ease was complicated, if not impossible.
“Our cruises are changing that, offering the seamless experience AmaWaterways is known for while also providing exclusive access to culturally significant and often inaccessible destinations.”
What’s coming down the river over the next couple of years?
The launch of AmaMelodia, the line’s second ship on the Magdalena River, remains on schedule for June 2025, the line added.
It comes just a few months after AmaWaterways announced plans to build a second double-width ship following the success of AmaMagna, which is expected to debut in 2027.
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Harry Kemble
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