Aqua Expeditions, who launched their first custom built vessel in 2007 were the first company in Peru to offer 5 star luxury cruises on the Amazon River. Founder and CEO Francesco Galli Zugaro who previously worked with a cruise operator in the Galapagos Islands, now operates two luxury cruise ships the M/V Aqua and the M/V Aria.

About M/V Aqua

Custom built in 2007 for Aqua Expeditions, this 130 foot long vessel can accommodate 24 guests and crew. The cruise ship has 12 suites measuring between 230 – 240 sq. ft, of which 4 suites can be interconnected to accommodate families.  Each suite offers over-sized windows, en-suite bathrooms, hot running water, a comfortable seating area and air-conditioning. Master suites offer king beds and a separate private seating area. The M/V Aqua also offers a fine dining restaurant, a comfortable in-door lounge and bar and a top door observation / lounge deck.

About M/V Aria

The beautiful M/V Aria is the larger of the companies cruise ships at 147 feet long, and was custom built specifically for Aqua Expeditions and launched in April 2011. Accommodating a maximum of 32 guests in 16 oversized luxury suites, the M/V Aria offers all the luxury amenities of a first class hotel but on the Amazon River. Suites measure 240 sq. ft, and include king beds, large observation windows, a comfortable seating area and an en-suite bathroom with 24 hour hot water. The M/V Aria also offers a comfortable in-door lounge and bar, a gourmet dining area, an exercise room, an observation desk and out-door lounge area.

Cruise Itineraries

The M/V Aqua and M/V Aria both operate essentially the same itineraries, offering 4, 5 and 7 night excursions. The 7 night excursions starts and ends in Iquitos, but the 4 and 5 night cruises utilize land transport to or from Nauta (several town south of Iquitos) forming part of the tour. Cruises travel along the Amazon River to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, incorporating activities along the route. Activities include Canopy walks, hiking, fishing, night tours, and visiting local communities. All meals and tours are included within the price. For exact itinerary information, take a moment to visit Aqua Expeditions official website.

Departures

M/V Aqua, 3 night program, Saturday – Tuesday
M/V Aqua, 4 night program, Tuesday – Saturday
M/V Aqua, 7 night program, Saturday – Saturday

M/V Aria 3 night program,  Friday – Monday
M/V Aria, 4 night program, Monday – Friday
M/V Aria, 7 night program, Friday – Friday

Prices

(2011 Prices)
M/V Aqua, starting from $2,550 / per person for 3 night program.
M/V Aria, starting from $2,550 / per person for 3 night program.

Single supplement is an additional 25% above standard price.
Children under 12 years of age – 20% discount.

Price includes:
All meals while onboard
All excursions
All beverages (non-alcoholic, house wine and beer)
Transfers to/from vessel when arriving on recommended flights
Pacaya-Samiria entrance fee.

Our Thoughts

Aqua Expeditions are a first class operator, and the M/V Aqua and the M/V Aria are two of the best boats on the Amazon River. The M/V Aria which was launched in April this year is just stunning inside and out, and it is not very often that you get the opportunity to cruise aboard a brand new ship. Service is excellent, the gourmet food on-board is just incredible, and the accommodations are better than many top rate hotels. Note that prices are very expensive on these cruises, and for the equivalent money, you could get a 5 or 7 day tour of the Galapagos Islands aboard a first class ship.

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