AmaWaterways to offer Colombia river cruises with Metropolitan Touring

The river line and the South American specialist operator have announced plans to build an “all-suite, eco-friendly” vessel and run a collection of “unique” shore activities.

Revealing the partnership on Thursday (8 July), the companies said the new programme, launching in December 2023, would incorporate each side’s experience – with the river ship design pedigree of AmaWaterways president and co-founder Rudi Schreiner and Metropolitan Touring’s expertise in expedition cruising in the Galapagos.

Guests will be able to choose between two seven-night itineraries with pre- and post-cruise land programmes exploring the Magdalena and “delving into Colombia’s vibrant cultural and natural heritage”.

“Not since my early university days of exploring the Amazon have I felt the excitement of discovering a new destination that is so rich in biodiversity and culture, as I found on the Magdalena in Colombia,” said Schreiner.

“I’m absolutely captivated by the rich history, wildlife and friendly welcome that awaits our guests when our intimate, all-suite ship sets sail in December 2023.”

Metropolitan Touring chief executive, Paulina Burbano de Lara, said: “Colombia has always been a country close to my heart and every trip I’ve made to the Magdalena over many years has been full of spectacular, life-affirming experiences that touched my soul. Finding the right partner to develop the first-ever eco-friendly river cruise experience for Colombia was therefore of utmost importance to me and our company.

“We know that Rudi, Kristin and all the AmaWaterways team share our passion for the Magdalena and we’re delighted that together we will create innovative and enriching experiences for guests.”