The Peruvian Amazon is being embraced by two new luxury cruises to give discerning travellers even more choice for exploring this wildlife-rich region.

Our partners Delfin Amazon Cruises and Aqua Expeditions both have new boats on offer. Delfin have refurbished their original boat the Delfin I to reach an even higher standard of luxury that perhaps even surpasses that of their flagship Delfin II. Aqua Expeditions, meanwhile, are launching the second ship in their fleet, the ultra-modern MV Aria, to complement the MV Aqua.

Delfin I (began operation in December 2010)

The new look Delfin I certainly has taken on a very different attire; this has been fully refurbished in 2010 to afford even more spacious suites than before, with 2 oversize Deluxe Suites on the main deck and 2 Master Suites on the Second Deck. The new space is very apparent from the offset; extra hulls have been added to support a much wider deck.

The small number of suites compared to Delfin II, MV Aqua and MV Aria ensure that Delfin I can provide the most exclusive and private cruise on the Amazon. With 4 suites and room for just 8 guests, this ensures that passengers can enjoy an intimate atmosphere with the emphasis being on personal attention.

And the suites are delightful; our friends Lissy and Aldo have added beautiful touches and attention to detail at every turn, with understated elegance reflecting the natural world into which the boat thrusts itself. They all have 180° Panoramic windows from floor to ceiling, a kingsize bed (or twins), mini bar, seating area and air conditioning, also boasting a 320ft square terrace. The two deluxe suites offer a little more space than the master suites (360ft square compared to 340) as well as having their own Jacuzzis. Everything is done here in excellent taste in a way that authentically blends in with the Amazon.

Delfin are also renowned for the exquisite cuisine served onboard their boats, and excellent Cuisine once again plays an important part in the Delfin I experience.  Chefs Isaac Saavedra y Raúl Rodriguez have a constantly rotating menu based on which ingredients are available and which are freshest. They incorporate many ingredients fresh form the rainforest.

MV Aria –Launching April 24th 2011

In contrast to the rustic elegance of Delfin I, the MV Aria will be a very grand affair when it launches next month. This 147-long whopper of a cruise ship has been custom built by architect Jordi Puig to provide an extremely high level of modern comfort and ample amenities to guests.

The MV Aria (Digital mock-up)

A total of 32 passengers can be accommodated for on the sophisticated Aria, and those who partake in a luxury cruise can enjoy the plush lounge, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and even an exercise room.

MV Aria lounge (Digital mock-up)

There are no less than 16 oversize design suites on offer, all 240ft square. These include sitting areas, air conditioning and panoramic views of the Amazon, providing plentiful comfort to guests. 4 of these suites can be interconnected to accommodate for families.

MV Aria dining room (Digital mock-up)

Gastronomy-wise, Lima chef Pedro Miguel Shiaffano draws chiefly on Peruvian influences with an international tinge to ensure that fine-dining is on a par with some top-end restaurants. The exquisite gourmet cuisine is also paired with the finest South American wines.

The Verdict

Both new ships are set to take the Amazon luxury cruise scene by storm (hopefully not literally!). Both boats have their advantages; the Delfin I offers a more tranquil, personalised experience while the Aria offers complete luxury and several modern amenities to guests.

Below we have drawn up a table highlighting the characteristics of each of our 4 preferred luxury Amazon cruises along with fixed departure days throughout 2011. They all offer fixed departures for 3 and 4 night cruises throughout the year, with Aqua and Aria also offering fixed departures for 7 nights.

*Prices are per person based on two people sharing a cabin on a 4D/3N cruise.

If any of these 4 wonderful luxury Amazon cruises sound like your cup of tea, contact us today to book as a part of your hand-tailored Peru luxury travel package.