CALABASAS — AmaWaterways celebrated the official christening of AmaMagdalena this week in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, Colombia.
As the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to navigate the iconic Magdalena River, AmaMagdalena is a historic milestone not only for the company but also for the development of sustainable tourism in the region, said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways.
The christening ceremony “marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways, but for the future of river cruising,” said Schreiner. “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 travellers and local communities alike for generations to come.”
The festive ceremony was attended by local dignitaries including the Governor of the Bolívar Department and the Mayor of Mompox, along with national officials from the Ministries of Tourism, Transport and Defense, as well as representatives from ProColombia, Fontur and Cormagdalena. The celebration also drew many locals.
AmaWaterways co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst lead the christening celebrations onboard AmaMagdalena in Colombia
AmaMagdalena’s godmother is interior designer and Colombian entrepreneur Marianna Schlegel Donado, who was born in Barranquilla and played a key role in the ship’s design. The ship’s creative vision, led by architect Camilo Restrepo, draws inspiration from the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region.
“Being named godmother of AmaMagdalena is an incredible honour — both as a designer and as a proud Colombian,” said Schlegel. “This ship carries the soul of our country: its colours, 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.”
Amenities onboard the 60-passenger vessel include a Sun Deck pool, a fitness room, a Main Restaurant serving locally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites, and an al fresco specialty dining venue, the Bolívar Restaurant.
Kristin Karst, co-founder and Chief Brand Ambassador of AmaWaterways, said the christening of AmaMagdalena “is the realization of a dream we’ve nurtured for many years.”
The ship offers two immersive seven-night itineraries – Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia – sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla.
Excursions include a private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, an exclusive jazz performance in Mompox, birdwatching expeditions and a visit to Palenque, the first free town in the Americas.
Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages are also available in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City.
ProColombia’s President, Carmen Caballero, said AmaMagdalena “embodies what Colombia stands for: a vibrant, authentic destination filled with natural and cultural beauty.”
“This achievement reflects the joint efforts between the private sector, local communities, and the government, marking a new chapter for the Magdalena River as a route for sustainable tourism,” Caballero added.
As planned, AmaWaterways will expand its Colombia program with the debut of a second ship, AmaMelodia, later this year.
