Luxury river cruise specialist AmaWaterways has officially christened AmaMagdalena, the first-ever luxury river cruise vessel to sail the storied waterway in Colombia.
The ceremony took place in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Mompox, marking a significant milestone for the cruise line and for the advancement of sustainable tourism in the region. The event drew a distinguished audience, including regional and national dignitaries such as the Governor of the Bolívar Department, the Mayor of Mompox, and representatives from Colombia’s Ministries of Tourism, Transport, and Defence. Key figures from national tourism organisations, including ProColombia, Fontur, and Cormagdalena, were also in attendance highlighting the extensive public-private collaboration that underpinned the vessel’s development.
“Today’s christening ceremony in Mompox marks a powerful moment not just for AmaWaterways, but for the future of river cruising,” said Rudi Schreiner, Co-Founder and CEO of AmaWaterways. “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.”
The ship’s godmother, Colombian entrepreneur and interior designer Marianna Schlegel Donado, officially named the vessel during the celebration. Born in Barranquilla and known for her leadership at Casa Schlegel Donado, Schlegel brought her creative influence to the ship’s interiors blending modern design with authentic Colombian craftsmanship.
“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 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.”
Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena was meticulously designed to deliver an immersive and intimate cruising experience. Developed in partnership with local artisans and led by renowned architect Camilo Restrepo, the vessel showcases handcrafted elements such as woodwork by Cartagena-based Ocean Projects and bespoke furnishings from Casa Schlegel Donado. On board, guests enjoy a premium range of amenities, including a Sun Deck with pool, fitness room, and a Main Restaurant offering a fusion of locally inspired Latin American cuisine and international favourites. The ship also features an al fresco specialty dining venue, the Bolívar Restaurant.
“The christening of 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,” said Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Chief Brand Ambassador of AmaWaterways. “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.”