AmaWaterways has postponed the AmaMagdalena’s inaugural cruise to early April from March 15 due to minor delays. Passengers are still visiting Colombia through excursions while the company hires additional staff and prepares for future itineraries on the Magdalena River, marking a significant return to river cruising in the region.
AmaWaterways has rescheduled the inaugural voyage of the AmaMagdalena in Colombia to early April, moving it from its original date of March 15. This postponement arises from “a couple of small things that are holding us back,” according to co-founder and chief brand ambassador Kristin Karst.
The river cruises on the Magdalena River, which haven not been conducted for over 50 years, will feature two ships as part of AmaWaterways’ ongoing plans announced in 2021. Despite the delay, passengers who were set to cruise on the AmaMagdalena opted to explore Colombia through excursion boats, enjoying the sights of Cartagena as well as the historic towns of Palenque and Barranquilla.
Recently, AmaWaterways expanded its staff, employing eight cruise managers for both the AmaMagdalena and the AmaMelodia, the latter of which is expected to begin sailing in June. Additionally, they established an office in Barranquilla, staffed with approximately ten employees.
Previously slated to launch last November, the AmaMagdalena’s debut was postponed to March 15, with co-founder and CEO Rudi Schreiner remarking that these delays are expected for pioneers in the industry. 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 has announced two itineraries for their Colombian cruises: the Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia, each comprising seven-night cruises scheduled for 2025, 2026, and 2027. The Magic of Colombia itinerary commences in Barranquilla and concludes in Cartagena, while Wonders of Colombia operates in the reverse order. A sailing for Magic of Colombia is listed on AmaWaterways’ website for April 5.
In summary, AmaWaterways has delayed the launch of the AmaMagdalena to early April due to minor challenges. Passengers previously booked are continuing to explore Colombia through alternative excursions. The company is actively expanding its operational capabilities in the region, revealing two distinct itineraries for upcoming years. The initiative is significant as it marks a milestone for river cruising on the Magdalena River.
Original Source: www.travelweekly.com
