Sustainability “a top priority” for AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has reinforced its intention to enhance its sustainability measures, stating, “Sustainability is the top and ever-present responsibility of every company in the travel industry”.

The luxury river cruise company, which currently has ships based throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, will embark on a series of initiatives to reduce environmental impact. The proposed changes include installing solar panels on stateroom awnings and encouraging guests to use the MyAmaCruise app while onboard to eradicate paper wastage. Furthermore, the line will test navigation tools to minimise fuel consumption and replace buffets with full-service a la carte menus, which they claim will reduce food wastage by up to 30%.

Following the news that AmaWaterways is building two ships for Colombia’s Magdalena River, the company’s co-founder and president Rudi Schreiner was keen to point out that working alongside communities is equally important from a sustainability perspective.

AmaMagdalena – the first of two vessels planned for the Magdalena River in Colombia.

“We are currently building two new ships in Colombia and are proud to be working hand in hand with local architects, designers, and suppliers to ensure we are not only incorporating and honouring this beautiful destination’s national resources and culture but also enhancing lives of the local residents along the Magdelena.”

In recent years, AmaWaterways has led the way where sustainable river cruising is concerned. In 2019, they were the first company to receive the Green Award, which recognises ships for several factors, including safety and environmental performance.

Since then, the operator has gone on to receive the Green Award for 18 of its ships, with AmaWaterways co-founder and vice-president Kristin Karst stating:
“From the design of our ships to the green measures we’ve taken on board and shoreside, AmaWaterways continues to explore new ways to enhance our efforts in sustainable tourism.”

AmaWaterways’ new Colombia programme is now open for reservations, with itineraries available from Barranquilla to Cartagena available on a 7-night basis. Guests who want to extend their time in the region can add optional 3-night pre-and post-cruise stays in Medellin or Panama.

For more information regarding AmaWaterways, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677.