Set sail along the legendary Magdalena River and into the heart of Colombia on a privately chartered, full-ship experience with Max Miller and fellow Tastorians.

Your journey begins with a two-night stay in vibrant Cartagena, where colorful streets, Caribbean rhythms, and rich culinary heritage set the stage. From there, cruise deep into Colombia’s cultural heartland, where each stop along the Magdalena reveals a new facet of the country’s story—from riverside communities and daily life to the sounds and flavors that define the region. Along the way, enjoy curated experiences including visits to local artisans, Carnaval-inspired performances, and cuisine shaped by the intersection of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences.

Enhance your journey with an optional pre- stay in Medellín or join Max on a post-cruise extension to Panama City. From Colombia’s coffee culture and dynamic city life to the global crossroads of the Panama Canal, these extensions broaden your perspective of the region beyond the river.

More than a trip, this is a shared journey—bringing Tastorians together to experience Colombia through its people, its history, and, of course, what’s on the table.

All prices are per person unless stated otherwise.

• Enjoy customized experiences tailored for Tasting History

• Participate in talks and activities with Max Miller

• Receive a commemorative gift

Due to group capacity constraints, guests are not guaranteed to be in the same group as Max on any given excursion.

March 19 - 22
Optional 3-night land extension in Medellín

9-night Cruise Tour from Cartagena to Barranquilla

March 22 - 24: 2-night pre-cruise stay in Cartagena

March 24 - 31: 7-night Magdalena River cruise

Mar 31 - Apr 3
Optional 3-night land extension in Panama City

AmaWaterways' newly launched AmaMelodia captures the spirit of Colombia both on ship and off. Each room features twin balconies (French balcony and outside balcony), and range from 237 sq. ft. to 306 sq. Whether watching a cultural performance in the Main Lounge or dining al fresco, this ship embraces the warmth and vibrancy of the Magdalena River. For a deck plan and detailed room descriptions, click here.

Kindly note that the AmaMelodia does not have an elevator.

This is a non-smoking environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck). 

Previous guests of AmaWaterways or Tasting History travel experiences will receive a $100 per person loyalty discount.  No further discounts apply.

Passports and Entry Requirements

It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and acquire a visa if required.  US and Canadian citizens typically do not require a visa, but must complete a (free) Check-Mig digital immigration pre-registration form 72 hours - 1 hour prior to your fight.

Accessibility

Shore excursions require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking and sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain. The embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore may not be able to accommodate guests with mobility issues. Guests will need to be able to disembark the ships into smaller motorized boats for certain excursions which will require a greater level of mobility. However, the landscape is fairly flat and there will be walking tours offered at a gentle pace. Kindly note that the vessel is not equipped with an elevator. 

Dietary Requirements and Food Allergies

Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). The food preparation areas of the ship is not conducive to preparing meals without some sort of cross-contamination including, but not limited to, exposure to nuts and gluten. 

Minimum Age

Guests must be at least 12 years of age at the time of sailing. Children under 18 must share a stateroom with an adult and remain supervised at all times, as balcony staterooms may be unsafe for unattended minors. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or childcare services.

Discover Medellín , a dynamic cultural capital known for its creativity, energy, and stunning mountain setting. Stay in 5-star comfort while exploring its vibrant neighborhoods on guided tours and immersing yourself in Colombia’s rich coffee culture.

Please note that Max Miller will not be joining this extension.

March 22 - 24

Day 1
Arrive in Cartagena, a sun-drenched city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast where colonial charm and coastal beauty intertwine. Check into your hotel: Sofitel

Stroll through streets steeped in history, admire centuries-old fortifications, and discover the vibrant spirit that shaped this port city into a cultural treasure.

Day 2

Delve into Cartagena’s fascinating past as you explore its fortresses, museums, and storied streets. From the UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle to the glittering world of emeralds and indigenous gold artifacts, uncover the treasures and tales that have defined this Caribbean gem. As a Tasting History exclusive, we'll enjoy a private dinner at the exceptional deIndias restaurant.

Meals included: B,D

Day 3

Before boarding your ship, discover the historic vaults of Cartagena, once Spanish headquarters and a prison, now alive with art, shops, and culture. Explore the colorful streets of the Getsemaní neighborhood before setting sail along the magical Magdalena River, as the city’s Caribbean sunsets mark the beginning of your river adventure.

Meals included: B, D

March 24 - 31

Day 3: Embarkation Day and welcome dinner

(B, D)

Day 4: Mahates (Palenque) - Calamar

In the morning, dock in Mahates, your gateway to the town of Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas. Founded by those who fled a life of slavery during colonial times, the spirit and appearance of this town has been preserved through time. As a Tasting History exclusive, local food will be brought aboard for lunch--dishes that celebrate the fusion of African, Spanish and indigenous influences. An important piece of Palenque’s heritage is the music and rhythmic style that was developed in this city, which you will enjoy during a special performance that brings the town’s spirit to life. Later in the day, cruise to Calamar. Located at the entrance of the Canal del Dique, this town was first settled in 1840. Witness historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception as you tour this beautiful destination by paola (a bicycle taxi for two). 

(B, L, D)

Day 5: Magangué region - Mompox

Board a small boat and drift through the emerald wetlands of Boca de Tacaloa, where vibrant birdlife and untamed nature create a living sanctuary. As evening falls, arrive in Mompox and feel the streets come alive with an exclusive open-air jazz performance.

(B, L, D)

Day 6: Mompox

A town frozen in time, Mompox embodies the appearance of what many villages looked like during colonial times. Founded in 1540, this remote village became an important Spanish trading post. While visiting the largest inland island in Latin America, journey through the beautiful wetlands, exploring the massive lake that is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the region, with opportunities to birdwatch at sunrise, early morning and sunset. You can choose to take a stroll through this storied town on a guided tour beginning with a tuk-tuk ride from Plaza de San Francisco, visiting key landmarks. You may also visit a filigree workshop, witnessing the intricate jewelry artistry that defines Mompox’s renowned craftsmanship. With stunning colonial churches, breathtaking nature surrounding the town, and delicious local delights such as capa cheese and butifarra, Mompox is sure to be a highlight of your journey along the magnificent Magdalena River. 

(B, L, D)

Day 7: Mompox - scenic cruising

Bid farewell to Mompox before embarking on a scenic cruise down one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena River – La Mojana Region. Learn more about the history of cumbia, an iconic genre of music and dance that has now been popularized around the world. What began as a courtship dance practiced by African slaves later incorporated American steps and European and African instruments has become a world-wide sensation, which is especially popular in the Andean region of Colombia. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive cumbia performance by locals. 

(B, L, D)

Day 8: Santa Bárbara de Pinto

Experience life in the riverside town of Santa Bárbara de Pinto, where local artisans keep generations-old traditions alive. Watch fishermen weave nets by hand, tobacco rollers at work, and skilled craftspeople create intricate handmade wares. Whether you choose to stroll the pastel streets or explore the lush surrounding landscapes on a guided hike, the spirit of Colombia’s heartland awaits.

(B, L, D)

Day 9: Sitio Nuevo - Barranquilla

In the morning, visit a charming village on a guided tour that highlights the beauty and warmth of Colombia. Later in the day, venture to the beautiful seaside city of Barranquilla, a vibrant destination home to notable musicians, writers and artists. Immerse yourself in the warmth and culture of the city’s atmosphere as you venture through this magnificent location, where you may see the bocas de cenizas, the point at which the magical Magdalena River meets the breathtaking Caribbean Sea. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive Carnaval celebration just for AmaWaterways guests.

(B, L, D)

Day 10: Barranquilla

Disembarkation day

(B)

Our stay in the historic 5-Star Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo places us in the heart of a UNESCO-listed district, where cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and lively plazas tell stories of centuries of trade, conquest, and cultural exchange. You’ll witness the legendary Panama Canal in action—an enduring symbol of human ingenuity that reshaped global commerce—and cruise through the lush waterways of Gatun Lake, surrounded by rainforest wildlife.

Beyond the city, venture into Chagres National Park for a more ancient rhythm of life. Travel by traditional canoe to visit an Emberá village, where we'll be welcomed with music, storytelling, and a hands-on cooking experience using time-honored techniques and local ingredients—offering a rare glimpse into culinary traditions that predate modern Panama.

From biodiversity to engineering marvels, and from colonial kitchens to indigenous foodways, Panama offers a rich, layered finale to our journey.