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Delfin Amazon Cruises
Pioneering upscale exploration of the Upper Peruvian Amazon, Delfin Amazon Cruises invites nature enthusiasts on a magical journey of discovery, a foray into the unexpected that challenges everyday perceptions and expands personal horizons.
It has been determined that the source point of the Amazon is at Mount Mismi in southern Peru, so what better country from which to delve into this incredible ecosystem? In a stylish and personalized manner, Delfin brings to light the lore, legend and life of the Amazon, where one can find more than one-third of all species recorded in the world, and therefore the earth’s largest collection of living plant and animal species.
Their immersive approach has allowed for interactions with local Amazonian communities, including villagers who reside within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve and share with visitors their daily life of fishing, small-scale farming and hunting and gathering. Natural wonders intermingle with a look at native cultural history, all while traveling aboard classic river vessels of understated elegance and world-class hospitality.
Delfin Amazon Cruises journeys along its namesake river from an embarkation point at Nauta (1.5 hours south of Iquitos Airport). Guests arrive at Iquitos Airport in the northern Peruvian jungle after a 1.5-hour flight from Lima and are met at the airport and taken by ground transportation to Nauta.
Delfin’s fleet is comprised of three classic river vessels, the newest of which, Delfin III, can comfortably fit up to 43 passengers and boasts hardwood floors, designer furnishings and handmade Peruvian artifacts. Choices of accommodation throughout the fleet include suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious corner suites facing the ship’s front, interconnected suites for families, an Owner’s Suite and more. Some offer a private whirlpool and all offer cabin service thrice daily to ensure the most optimal personalized service. Amenities vary by vessel, but may include a dining room, observation deck, sundeck, entertainment center, library, exercise space, spa and lecture/presentation room.
Taking center stage for Amazonian river cruisers is the Amazon Basin itself, wherein lies unparalleled biodiversity and an estimated hundreds of millions of species that have yet to be discovered. More than 3,000 species of freshwater fish, rare pink dolphins, extraordinary bird life, three-toed sloths, Caiman lizards and more cavort in the waters of the river and in Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which, at five million acres, is the second largest national reserve in Peru.
As Delfin vessels make their way along the river, there are ample opportunities – through kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, and onboard, through insightful presentations – to learn about this exciting ecosystem. Feed manatees, fish for piranhas, walk through the jungle canopy on lofty suspension bridges and stop in local villages to meet the ribereños – people who live along the riverbanks and rely on the rainforest’s aquatic and terrestrial resources for food and income.
There is plenty of time, as well, to simply sit back and drink in the views of the jungle scenery outside from a lovingly adorned suite, observation deck and lounge, private plunge pool, library or dining room. This combination of natural wonder, indigenous cultural history and dramatic scenery is a relaxed and self-contained way to experience the Amazon.
Peruvian dining is quite a treat, reflecting as it does the country’s worldly immigrant traditions. Delfin vessels showcase these contemporary Creole tastes through a comprehensive gastronomic, cultural and historic culinary adventure. Served on handmade dinnerware and complemented by locally crafted table décor, meals are fresh and ever-changing, relying on the Amazon’s wild choice of fresh ingredients, from Oscar fish to hearts of palm. Beverages include some of the best South American vintages. And always in the background, the gentle sounds of onboard musicians. Dining with Delfin exceeds expectations and satisfies refined tastes and sophisticated palates.
There’s a palpable “noncruise” ambience aboard Delfin’s vessels, in which guests are encouraged to commune with nature and explore the intriguing environment that surrounds them. Choose from the incredibly intimate and exclusive atmosphere of the Delfin I, with just four very special, oversized suites; the expedition stylings of the Delfin II; or the brand-new Delfin III. Guests have access to kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to further explore the river. On board, spa treatments take their cue from the lush natural surroundings of the Amazon and rainforest remedial philosophies. And a lovely, enclosed lecture room and lounge is available for sitting quietly with a book, playing a game or learning more about the amazing Peruvian Amazon.
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