Colombia just got its first-ever luxury river cruise

Experience Colombia like never before, luxurious trimmings included.

US-based cruise company AmaWaterways has introduced its first-ever luxury river cruise in Colombia, staking its claim among some of 2025’s best inland expedition offerings.

The launch symbolises a significant milestone for the brand, officially expanding its impressive Colombian portfolio and establishing AmaWaterways as the first major river cruise line to explore the Magdalena River.

The itineraries

Guests joining the immersive river cruise will stay onboard the newly built AmaMagdalena – the portmanteau is a clever nod to both developer and destination – with two seven-night itineraries to choose from. The first – Magic of Colombia – begins in the bustling seaport of Barranquilla.

AmaWaterways is bringing its luxury offerings to Colombia’s Magdalena River.

Along the way, guests will disembark in Nueva Venecia for a stilt-house village tour, join a jazz street performance in Mompox and go on a birdwatching tour through Magangue. Other towns on the itinerary include Santa Barbara de Pinto, El Banco and Calamar, before finishing up in colourful Cartagena.

The second offering is the Wonders of Colombia cruise, which follows the same itinerary – just backwards. Guests will begin their journey in Cartagena, stopping at the same places on their way to Barranquilla. The difference here is in the details; while both itineraries share many similarities, the latter stops in an additional town – Gambote (near Palenque) – on day two.

Whichever trip you pick, you’re in for a treat. The Magdalena River is known as a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering a number of diverse ecosystems along its route. Guests will witness everything from coastal rainforests to inland swamps, historic cities to traditional towns, endemic animals to endangered species.

Explore historic towns like Mompox along the way. (Image: Getty Images/jon Chica Parada)

But it isn’t just about what you’ll see – each itinerary is designed to be immersive and experience driven.

“The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination,” says AmaWaterways co-founder and chief brand ambassador, Kristin Karst. “It’s about creating lasting connections between cultures, celebrating the rich history and natural beauty of the Magdalena River, and offering new opportunities for local communities.”

Whether it’s tasting Colombia’s unique coffee, dancing to Latin American music, meeting friendly residents, taking a tuk tuk ride or touring a historic landmark with a local guide, you’ll return home with more than just memories.

Life onboard

While the offboard experiences are a great selling point, guests have plenty to look forward to while onboard AmaMagdalena.

Both of the new Colombia itineraries stop in Cartagena. (Image: Getty Images/Starcevic)

Custom-designed by Colombian architect Camilo Restrepo in collaboration with Cartagena-based woodworking experts, Ocean Projects and local craftspeople, the ship, which carries 60 passengers, speaks to culture and place. Restrepo also worked alongside designer Mariana Schlegel Donado on the interiors, drawing inspiration from the region’s natural beauty to create an intimate and personalised experience.

There are five different staterooms onboard AmaMagdalena, ranging from a 237-square-metre Category A studio-style room to a 516-square-metre Grand Suite, which features two bathrooms and a private balcony, as well as Category B and C staterooms and a Luxury Suite. Between ports, guests can enjoy an onboard gym, the Sun Deck pool, an al fresco dining space and an exclusive main restaurant with a regionally inspired menu.

Bookings onboard AmaMagdalena for 2025, 2026 and 2027 are available now.

Bookings for both the Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia itineraries onboard AmaMagdalena are available now for 2025 through to 2027. Prices start at AU $5956, with pre- and post-cruise add-ons available (such as three nights in Panama) at an additional cost.

AmaWaterways will also launch AmaMelodia later this year, the brand’s second ship on the Magdalena, further expanding its presence in Colombia.