AmaWaterways Names Catherine Powell as New President

Catherine Powell, the new CEO of AmaWaterways (Photo Credit: Courtesy AmaWaterways)

In a move designed to position the company for its next phase of growth, AmaWaterways has announced that it is expanding its executive leadership team.

The luxury cruise line has named Catherine Powell to serve as president, working alongside AmaWaterways co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst.

In a statement released today, the company said Powell’s appointment represents “a significant milestone in AmaWaterways' journey, as the company continues to build upon its strong foundation and impressive growth trajectory.”

Powell has an extensive track record of driving growth and strategic transformation and has worked in entertainment, hospitality and the travel industry. In particular, Powell spent more than 15 years at The Walt Disney Company, where she was credited with delivering double-digit growth and leading transformative efforts focused on new revenue and cost opportunities.

More recently, Powell was Global Head of Hosting at Airbnb, overseeing and growing its global community of more than five million hosts of both homes and experiences.

“I am thrilled and honored to join AmaWaterways as its new president,” Powell said in a statement. “The company's commitment to exceptional guest experiences, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with my own values and vision for the future of travel. Having spent my career in entertainment and hospitality, I'm excited to bring my passion for creating unforgettable moments to the world of luxury river cruising.”

In her new role, Powell will report directly to Schreiner, co-founder and CEO, ensuring a collaborative approach to leadership and maintaining continuity in the company's strategic direction.

"Catherine's vision aligns perfectly with our ethos of exceptional guest experiences and innovation,” Schreiner said. “Her leadership will be instrumental in propelling AmaWaterways to new heights. As we move into this new chapter of growth, we are confident that Catherine’s expertise and vision will be instrumental in exploring new opportunities within the luxury river cruise market, while staying true to our core values.”

AmaWaterways said that Karst will continue her role as co-owner and co-founder, while also taking on the position of Chief Brand Ambassador.

“I very much look forward to not only creating more awareness and forging relationships internationally, but to maintaining and strengthening our very important relationships with our travel trade (partners) who have always been at the heart of AmaWaterways,“ said Karst. “Together we will continue building on the foundation of trust and excellence for which AmaWaterways is known, ensuring we deliver unforgettable experiences to our guests around the world.”

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