AmaWaterways is to offer river cruises in Colombia as part of an agreement with tour operator Metropolitan Touring.

The deal will see guests cruise the Magdalena River on AmaMagdalena, a new custom-built ship.

Starting in December 2023, the programme will consist of two seven-night itineraries and pre and post-cruise land programmes, as well as activities such as kayaking, hiking and birdwatching.

The line said specific itineraries are “currently being developed with more details anticipated in the coming weeks”.

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

“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.”

The line’s executive vice-president and co-founder Kristin Karst added: “It is incredibly exciting to be able to launch a new river cruise destination like Colombia, with such a colourful history and artistic background

“We are celebrating 19 years of creating authentic river cruise experiences in Europe, Asia and Africa and now, with our world-recognised destination partner, Metropolitan Touring, we will be able to offer our guests an opportunity to explore a fourth continent while discovering the hidden gems of Colombia along the majestic Magdalena River.”

Metropolitan Touring CEO 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 amazing, 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.”