L Catterton buys stake in AmaWaterways from Certares

Founders Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and the Murphy family all remain involved and will continue to have 'meaningful ownership,' L Catterton said.

'Exciting new chapter'

Schreiner called it an 'exciting new chapter for AmaWaterways,' with L Catterton bringing 'unique insight into today's customers, as well as exciting ideas on how we can work together to capitalize on a number of growth opportunities across our business. They share our passion for innovation and an unwavering commitment to creating unparalleled guest experiences.'

'We look forward to leveraging our global network and deep expertise across travel to identify new growth opportunities and thoughtful expansion initiatives, while empowering the innovative and pioneering spirit that has driven AmaWaterways' success over the last two decades,' said Marc Magliacano, co-managing partner of L Catterton's Flagship Fund.

L Catterton's cruise experience

L Catterton has cruise industry experience through its once-significant involvement in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings at a critical juncture in the pandemic and, before that, with OneSpaWorld/Steiner Leisure.

The firm manages approximately $35b of equity capital.

AmaWaterways has a fleet of 25 river vessels that operate across Europe, in Southeast Asia, on Africa's Chobe and Nile and, starting this year, Colombia's Magdalena. 

Certares invested in 2017

Private equity firm Certares bought into AmaWaterways in 2017. 

Said Colin Farmer, senior managing director/head of the management committee of Certares: 'AmaWaterways is a truly special company. We deeply value and appreciate the opportunity we have had to partner with Rudi, Kristin, the Murphy family and the McGeary family.

'We are extremely proud to have had a role in AmaWaterways' growth over the last many years, including the significant additions to the company's fleet, entry into new cruise destination markets, enhanced relationships with travel advisor partners and expanding upon the innovative and extraordinary experiences AmaWaterways provides its guests daily. We wish our partners and everyone at the company nothing but continued success in this next chapter.'