The 40-guest Aqua Mekong is a custom, architecturally appealing luxury cruise ship designed by Saigon-based architectural firm Noor Design. She is the first five-star small luxury cruise ship to travel up and down the Mekong River between the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and the Kingdom of Cambodia. The Aqua Mekong is also the first cruise ship on Southeast Asia’s greatest river to offer a fitness center, library, cinema screening room, and features the river’s only private fleet of tender boats for the ultimate off-ship access.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Mekong review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Aqua Mekong review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Aqua Mekong with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Southeast Asia cruises.
Choose the Aqua Mekong for her many exclusives unique to the Mekong, most notably extra luxury touches and her private tender boats that put off-ship adventure first. Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel exclusive, the Aqua Mekong incorporates relaxed yet refined lounging and dining areas and river-facing design suite views. Modern navigation technologies and the highest cruise ship standards as well as an experienced river pilot and crew ensure smooth travel and safety on the water, with twice-daily excursions to landmarks, temples, and villages.
Aqua Mekong has a Hodkinson’s Indochine influenced aesthetic and interiors built entirely of local sustainable materials. Expect lots of natural fibers of the surrounding environment with artisanal touches of the Mekong’s multifaceted cultures.
Sunlit indoors and out, the top-level Observation Deck aboard the Aqua Mekong is designed to seamlessly connect guests with the constantly shifting landscape, always in air conditioning and utmost comfort. Shade structures and lounge chairs entice relaxations while sliding doors lead to the Outdoor Lounge with its inviting infinity plunge pool–the only one on the Mekong River.
At night, the Outdoor Lounge transforms into a movie theater under the stars, with 300 onboard movies to choose from. Both the bow and the stern lounges are outfitted with comfortable sun loungers and a shade canopy, plus a rooftop bar, fully stocked to mix any sip. Gravitate to the Indoor Lounge in the mornings for Vietnamese coffee poured over ice with sweet condensed milk, and for lectures on ecology, culture and wildlife.
A private screening room with theater-style accommodation and a private library/games room provide entertainment for quiet times on board. A small selection of onboard iPads and high-speed Starlink WiFi add to the entertainment options. For fitness-minded guests, a top-deck, fully equipped gym overlooks the river. Shop for authentic souvenirs in the antique and artisanal boutique. There are two spa treatment rooms, each with single and double massage beds. An infirmary with onboard medical staff is also available in case any health needs arise, and a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio makes sure every need is attended to. Aqua Mekong’s 40 crew members include a cruise director and four English-speaking guides. Complimentary laundry service makes packing light an easy option.
The dining experience on board Aqua Mekong was created by Michelin-starred-chef David Thompson. Thompson is the Australian-born chef formerly of Nahm in Bangkok and the author of internationally acclaimed cookbooks including Thai Food and Thai Street Food. Guests can expect seasonal menus showcasing the full repertoire of flavors from Vietnam and Cambodia in refined style. Onboard chefs use peak-season produce and the freshest ingredients from the Mekong River and the region. The ship’s bar menu, created by renowned spirit experts and cocktail designers Proof & Co, echoes a similar locally-minded philosophy.
Some of Thompson’s signature creations include lamb curry with Khmer spices and Vietnamese sugar cane prawns, most of which are served in a communal dining style authentic to the region’s traditions. In addition to onboard cooking demonstrations, guests can follow the ship’s chefs to bustling local markets as they procure the finest produce, from freshly-caught Mekong river catfish to newly-harvested Asian greens, for the day’s meals. Coconut, lemongrass, coriander and turmeric are just a few of the most recognizable flavors you can expect on the inventive yet authentic seasonal menus.
Breakfast is served buffet style while lunch and dinner are served family style. Tables configurable for 2-20 guests enable both intimate and group dining experiences. The ship’s chefs can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences. Whether it’s allergies, dietary restrictions, or lifestyle preferences, the crew will do their best to serve you world-class meals of your choice.
Aqua Mekong exclusively offers a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Four professionally trained guides lead guests of the Aqua Mekong on daily expeditions aboard comfortable skiffs deep into the Mekong’s tributaries and on foot among Khmer pottery villages, remote mountain monasteries and among the cultural treasures of Phnom Penh. Maximum group size of 10 guests per guide ensure excellent attention to detail. English-speaking, on-staff, professionally trained experts grew up along the Mekong River and know its Buddhist temples, Hindu ruins, Catholic churches and elusive wildlife as well as many of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people they will introduce guests to.
Land- and water-based activities from Aqua Mekong include cycling (daily), kayaking, swimming, sunrise daily guided meditation and more so that guests enjoy a more diverse, multidimensional experience. The ship carries 10 top-of-the-line Cannondale all-terrain bicycles, with options along the way to bike to visitor sites rather than ride in a car. Many off-ship excursions are on customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, carrying up to 10 passengers on two to three daily excursions, with constant radio contact between captains. The Aqua Mekong is privileged as the only Mekong River vessel to have private skiffs.
Southeast Asia’s rich artisanal traditions can be found among the treasures in the onboard boutique, designed to offer Aqua Mekong guests the convenience of shopping at their leisure for high quality, thoughtfully selected Cambodian and Vietnamese handicrafts and jewelry as well as Aqua Expeditions signature souvenirs. Items featured include original pieces sourced directly from talented artisans who live and work in the communities Aqua Mekong visits and actively supports. Aqua Mekong is proud that wherever possible, high quality pieces with a philanthropic origin have been selected, allowing her guests’ pleasure to be matched by the life-changing opportunities created for these artisans.
There are 20 Design Suites aboard the Aqua Mekong, all air conditioned with panoramic floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, sitting area, large double closets, 220-volt and USB plugs throughout the cabin, music docking station and a password-generated security box. Nespresso machines are also available in each suite. Four sets of interconnecting suites (two sets on each deck) are suitable for families. Each suite has either one California King bed or two twin beds. En-suite bathrooms feature dual sinks, walk-in shower with rainforest showerhead, hairdryer and all-organic hair and bath amenities.
The 32-guest Aria Amazon meets the highest standards of modern small ship cruising. With suites comparable to a 5-star hotel, private baths, luxury toiletries and fine linen bedding, full air-conditioning, state-of-the-art lighting and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in every suite and common area, the Aria Amazon’s design makes the most of luxury adventure cruising along the Amazon River.
Choose the Aria Amazon for her reputation for style and comfort, driven by the unique structure and design of renowned Peruvian architect Jordi Puig, who designed Aria Amazon as a 147-foot, matte black hulled ship. Her sophisticated boutique hotel aesthetic, woven tapestries of indigenous Peruvian fibers, soft lighting, natural wood flooring and neutral hues create a calming and indulgently comfortable backdrop from which to focus on the captivating landscape. She is spacious yet intimate and feels entirely exclusive—a real Peruvian pleasure.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Aria firsthand. Read our Aria Amazon Cruise review, or continue reading this page for a detailed description of the small ship including the deck plan and full cabin information. Then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Aria Amazon with other small cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises, including private charter cruises.
The Aria Amazon’s Indoor Lounge features floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows on both sides for a seamless connection to the ever-changing scenery of Amazonia. The sunshine-soaked Outdoor Lounge has cushioned loungers and an expansive awning for relaxation. A fully stocked bar, tightly edited library, plush sofas, high ceilings and a perfectly tempered Jacuzzi adorn the Observation Deck on Aria Amazon’s top level, perfect for gazing at the river and jungle in comfort. A workout facility includes treadmills and a stationary bike with signature walls of glass for uninterrupted viewing, and a massage room is available for spa treatments. She is equipped with a satellite phone (the cost is determined before the call is made and can be purchased on board) as well as high-speed Starlink WiFi.
The dining room, decorated with contemporary Peruvian art, is further complemented by attentive, personalized service from long-serving staff who quickly learn guest names and tastes, from Peruvian coffee in the morning to the evening’s fine South American and European wines. Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Lima’s culinary stars, designed the Amazonia-inspired cuisine served on fine china with crystal glassware.
Choose to dine à deux or family style among new friends, always enjoying Schiaffino’s fresh, ever-changing menus. 70% of all ingredients used in chef Schiaffino’s dishes aboard Aria are sourced locally. And the ship’s talented chefs can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences.
The Aria Amazon’s onboard boutique offers the convenience of shopping in leisure for high quality, thoughtfully selected Peruvian handicrafts, jewelry and souvenirs. Artisanal items include original pieces sourced directly from the artisans of Amazonia, who live and work in the communities Aria visits and actively supports.
The “Amazon proof” Enigma timepieces designed by Gianni Bulgari exclusively for the launch of the Aria Amazon are on display among the Peruvian treasures. Waterproof to a depth of 300 feet, the steel case with sapphire Aqua C42 Amazon watch and a limited selection of Gianni Bulgari designed diamond and 14K gold Aqua Expedition jewelry are limited-edition items. Proceeds from sales go directly to social projects in the communities that the Aria Amazon visits throughout the year.
Three professionally trained expert naturalist guides grew up on the banks of the Amazon and lead daily expeditions in groups of 12 or fewer guests. They possess a local native’s ability to spot elusive wildlife both by day and night. The skilled captain, crew and onboard paramedic ensure an unforgettable, life-enriching experience while deep in the Amazon jungle.
Land- and water-based guided activities from Aria include cycling, kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking and more so that guests enjoy a more diverse, multidimensional experience.
Off-ship excursions into the Amazon jungle are on three customized aluminum motorized launch boats, or skiffs, carrying up to 12 passengers on two to three daily excursions, with constant radio contact between captains. In accordance with Aria safety policies and environmental conservation and responsible travel guidelines, skiffs are equipped with the latest Mercury 60 HP Marine Outboard engines, which operate at ultra-low emissions levels as certified by the California Air Resources Board. These energy-efficient vessels produce 65 percent lower emissions than required by the United States Environmental Protection Agency standards.
The Aria Amazon’s 16 oversized, air-conditioned suites are 250 square feet with polished timber flooring and generous outward-facing floor-to-ceiling windows. All suites have twin beds that can convert to a California king-size bed, en suite sitting area, private bath with walk-in shower and overhead rain shower, hairdryer, luxury toiletries, fine Peruvian linen, internal communication system, 220-volt outlets and safety deposit box. Four suites can be interconnected to cater to families.
The Aqua Nera 40-guest Amazon luxury riverboat is setting a new standard of luxury for river cruising in the Peruvian Amazon. The Award-winning architects of Noor Design craft every space to perfection. This luxury riverboat offers dramatic and generous interiors that draw design inspiration from the mystical blackwater lagoons while harmoniously blending contemporary style and details from the rubber boom era as well as the colorful cultures of Portugal, Spain and Peru.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Aqua Nera riverboat review includes a detailed description including deck plans. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Amazon. Please read our Aqua Nera review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Aqua Nera with other luxury small cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises, including private charter cruises.
Choose the Aqua Nera for a high class of luxury while experiencing the wilds of the Amazon Jungle. The care, attention-to-detail and comfort will be unmatched, as this ship is a sure standout.
The social spaces showcase refined elegance with a touch of drama and include a wide variety of spaces to have a quiet moment, observe the passing jungle or search for wildlife. This ship includes sun decks, indoor and outdoor bars, indoor dining room and outdoor private dining, indoor cinema screening room with theater-style seating, outdoor cinema, game room with pool table, shaded outdoor lounge, antique and artisanal boutique, observation deck, top-deck gym, infirmary, outdoor top-deck plunge pool with private cabana and two spa treatment rooms. Complimentary high-speed Starlink WiFi is available on board.
The Aqua Nera offers sumptuous and refined Peruvian cuisine from famed chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Orchestrated with native Amazonian ingredients, his culinary creations impart a multi-sensory dimension to each guest’s journey unlike any other cruise. In fact, 70% of all ingredients used in chef Schiaffino’s dishes on board Aqua Nera are sourced locally in a true farm-to-table approach.
Alongside Peruvian favorites such as the ceviche, guests aboard Aqua Nera will enjoy chef Schiaffino’s signatures including the plantain and yucca gnocchi, escolar fish in aji panka chili adobo, and grilled paiche with Amazon huatia potatoes.
The ship’s talented chefs are well-versed in a variety of preparations and can cater to vegetarian, vegan, kosher, gluten-free and dairy-free diets, as well as other more specific preferences.
Aboard Aqua Nera are four aluminum launch boats, each equipped with two four-stroke low-emission engines. These allow guests to explore remote tributaries and spot exotic wildlife among the trees during high-water season, or ferry guests to landing points for onshore excursions. Guests are typically off ship twice a day for guided excursions that last three to four hours and include kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, cycling and more. Ten bicycles and kayaks are also available to use while aboard. The outdoor top deck plunge pool and onboard gym provide more ways to stay active while cruising.
The vessel’s 20 spacious cabins (with 4 interconnecting suites) convey a sense of the Amazon’s tranquility, as they were designed with the tributaries of the Mirrored Forest of the Peruvian Amazon in mind. Using this aesthetic, Aqua Nera’s suites are impeccably stylish and inviting. Each 322-square-foot suite features premium fittings and bedding, California King-size beds or two twin beds, sofa or chairs, large double closets, music docking station, 220V plugs, as well as full air-conditioning, full-length windows and ensuite bathrooms with dual sinks, organic hair and bath amenities, hair dryer and a rain shower. Complimentary laundry service is available aboard.
Setting a new standard of luxury river cruising in the Amazon, each Aqua Nera small ship cruise is inspired by the Peruvian Amazon’s mystical blackwater lagoons and convey a sense of Amazon tranquility, refined elegance and a touch of drama. Aboard Aqua Nera, explore winding jungle tributaries; stop at remote villages to meet locals; stargaze from the peaceful deck; and search for wildlife life caimans, tree frogs, pink river dolphins, hundreds of bird species and breathtaking flora.
Cruise along three powerful Amazon tributaries: the Marañón, Ucayali and Pacaya Rivers as well as several hidden black water lakes in both high-water and low-water seasons. Stretch your legs with exciting jungle walks, test your skills fishing for piranhas, and take skiff rides into the depths of the mysterious Amazon jungle.
Two main seasons influence the Peruvian Amazon River: a high-water season (November through May) and a low-water season (June through October). Traveling to Peru in either season offers rich rewards, fabulous sites and amazing opportunities to view plant and animal life, but note that only high-water routes cruise along the Amazon River. The Aqua Nera sails year-round and every voyage is uniquely appealing, based on the changing seasons. During the high-water season the river and estuaries grow, allowing launch boats to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low-water season the river recedes and beautiful sandy river beaches form.
Cruise aboard the modern Aqua Nera, a classy Amazon riverboat. Enjoy her crew’s attentive care and her comfortable spaces. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her mix of jungle decor and modern feel, plus her intimate size.
The Aqua Nera Amazon River cruise operates an 8-day, 5-day and 4-day cruise, departing Saturdays and Tuesdays, to provide the Amazon experience that is best for you. Note that itineraries are subject to changes to accommodate the variable water levels for the different seasons.
Read on for details about this trip, or view all of AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
On this 8-day voyage aboard 30-guest Aqua Blu, blend some of Indonesia’s highlights with a special 2-day visit to a remote, rarely seen part of West Papua.
From the vibrant town of Kaimana, head to Triton Bay and Namatote, known for their incredible seascapes, coral reefs and whale shark sightings. After a day of discovering forested limestone cliffs and prehistoric art, journey east into the uncharted Asmat region—home to one of Indonesia’s most enigmatic indigenous communities. Head deep into the jungle on private speedboats to discover local villages and interact with members of the Asmat tribe. Finally, cap off the expedition at Momon, a forested island known to harbor the spectacular Kitikiti waterfall.
Passage is aboard Aqua Blu, a luxury long-range explorer yacht with a military past, specifically refurbished for cruising among Indonesian waters. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size. Enjoy her fine appointments, 5-star Indonesian cuisine with menus developed by a world-renowned chef, and state-of-the-art safety equipment for a unique way to cruise Indonesia.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips.
Sailing towards the edge of the Pacific Ocean, this 8-day Raja Ampat cruise expedition is a visual spectacle with unmatched marine diversity on show at some of the best dive and snorkel sites on Earth. Indonesia’s Raja Ampat features beautiful limestone karst island clusters that enthrall explorers with secret lagoons, bays and beaches. During this Indonesia cruise aboard the 30-guest luxury yacht Aqua Blu, explore the world’s most biodiverse environments and also tuck into perfect private hideaways.
Enjoy world-class wildlife excursions both on the ground and underwater. Go in search of birds of paradise that exist nowhere else on Earth. These winged wonders live alongside 350 other bird species, including forest kingfishers and king parrots, making the region a mecca for birders. Scour beaches for turtle species including the Pacific leatherback, the largest of all living turtle species on Earth. And don either dive gear or a snorkel and fins to discover the underwater delights of this Marine Protected Area.
Start the trip by relaxing at Swiss-Belhotel before boarding the ship on day 1, then begin enjoying various highlights of the itinerary. Tour “The Passage”–a narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island that Alfred Russell Wallace traveled through in 1860, experience Yangeffo Island, enjoy water activities at Wofoh Island, dive at Figure Eight Rock or snorkel at the Ranger station to spot black tip reef sharks while visiting Wayag Island, take in traditional dancing at the Papuan village of Yensawai on Birie Island and visit Mayabilit Bay.
The alternative Spice Islands to Raja Ampat itinerary completes a positioning route, offering some unique stops for a blend of Aqua Blu’s regularly occurring itineraries. Motor from the Spice Islands to Raja Ampat to experience centuries-old traditions at the former center of the global spice trade, then explore endemic and rare bird species in the most diverse marine habitats in the world.
Passage is aboard Aqua Blu, a luxury long-range explorer yacht with a military past, specifically refurbished for cruising among Indonesian waters. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size. Enjoy her fine appointments, 5-star Indonesian cuisine with menus developed by a world-renowned chef, and state-of-the-art safety equipment for a unique way to cruise Indonesia.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips.
Experience the world as it was at the very beginning of time, when wildlife was rich and abundant, when trees grew tall and flowers bloomed everywhere. During your luxurious Amazon River cruise aboard the 32-guest Aria Amazon, explore winding jungle creeks by motorized skiff and stop at remote villages to search for local crafts. Journey along three powerful Amazon tributaries: the Marañón, Ucayali and Pacaya Rivers as well as several hidden black water lakes in both high-water and low-water seasons. In this glorious environment, parrots and macaws perch in trees, fuzzy howler monkeys leap from branch to branch and prehistoric-looking caiman swim by. Rare pink dolphins arc through the water, giant Victoria Regia water lilies abound and you won’t be able to help but practice your photography skills.
Be aware that two main seasons influence the Peruvian Amazon River: a high-water season (November through May) and a low-water season (June through October). Traveling to Peru in either season offers rich rewards, fabulous sites and amazing opportunities to view plant and animal life, but note that only high-water routes cruise along the Amazon River. The Aria Amazon sails year-round and every voyage is uniquely appealing, based on the changing seasons. During the high-water season the river and estuaries grow, allowing launch boats to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low-water season the river recedes and beautiful sandy river beaches form.
Cruise in comfort aboard the Aria Amazon, a luxury Amazon riverboat with chic styling and plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows to ensure none of the wildlife is missed. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her classy feel and size.
The Aria Amazon River cruise is offered as either an 8-day, 5-day or 4-day cruise, departing Fridays and Mondays, to provide the Amazon experience that is best for you. Note that itineraries are subject to changes to accommodate the variable water levels for the different seasons.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
Rising from the seas of East Indonesia where two continental plates collide, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Komodo National Park is a wonder of nature in every way imaginable. On this 8-day Indonesia small ship cruise between Bali and Flores aboard 30-guest luxury yacht Aqua Blu, explore some of the most spectacular coastal terrain on Earth, with picture-perfect savannah hills, bays and beaches. Also enjoy near-daily opportunities to discover some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the world in this home to more than 1,000 species of tropical fish and 260 species of reef-building coral.
Delve into Komodo National Park’s 669 square miles of land and sea, some of which is inhabited by the prehistoric komodo dragon, the largest lizard species to walk the Earth. Hike the volcanic island of Padar, seek out a waterfall and 86 bird species of Moyo Island and Saleh Bay, snorkel or dive the famous Linta Strait known for manta rays and myriad other marine species. Additional opportunities to experience Jurassic Park at Horseshoe Bay and relax on the white-sand beaches of the Gili Lawa Islands or the Pink Beach of Komodo Island.
Passage is aboard the 30-guest Indonesia luxury yacht Aqua Blu. This well-appointed, all-suite small expedition ship cruises Indonesia in style, with modern comforts and state-of-the-art equipment. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size. Enjoy five-star dining with a menu created and overseen by a renowned chef; attentive staff; pampering from the spa; and from-the-ship adventure with paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel and dive equipment.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips.
Embrace culture, nature and wildlife on this 8-day Banda Sea cruise aboard the 30-passenger luxury Indonesia yacht Aqua Blu. Cruise among the Spice Islands, famous for their nutmeg with some of the oldest spice plantations on Earth. Enter a living museum where time appears to have stood still for decades and centuries-old relics, such as the Dutch Fort Belgica, exist alongside rich Indonesian local traditions such as nutmeg cultivation and kora-kora war canoe racing.
Swim, snorkel and dive (great wall or reef) almost daily; visit local markets; participate in village tours and try your hand at fishing. Set out in search of unique bird species first identified by Alfred Russell Wallace; watch for the dugong, or Asian manatee; and visit the easternmost volcano of Indonesia, Pulau Manuk, whose terrain rises from nearly 10,000 feet deep in the Banda Sea.
Four alternative departures complete positioning routes, each offering some unique stops over 13 days, for a longer cruise that blends two of Aqua Blu’s regularly occurring itineraries. Motor between Raja Ampat and the Spice Islands to seek out endemic and rare bird species, experience the most diverse marine habitats in the world and discover centuries-old traditions at the former center of the global spice trade. Alternately, cruise between Flores and Ambon to discover intriguing native tribes, active volcanoes, rare and unusual marine habitats, and the epicenter of the Old World spice trade. The unlisted Spice Islands, Raja Ampat & West Papua itinerary goes further, adding time exploring West Papua’s waterfalls, beaches and whale sharks.
Cruise Indonesia in style aboard the 30-guest, all-suite, luxury yacht Aqua Blu. Her brass-and-beige appointments, 5-star cuisine, inviting Jacuzzi, collection of adventure gear and attentive crew will ensure an unforgettable experience. And her history as the former British Naval Explorer HMS Beagle means she is equipped for this expedition to lesser-visited parts of Indonesia. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her private yacht feel and size.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruises and Indonesia trips.
Experience the Galapagos Islands with the feeling of your own private yacht, aboard the luxurious Aqua Mare. Adventure across volcanic islands for up-close encounters with epic wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Return on board to the comforts of an upscale superyacht with the attentive service of one crew member for every guest, spacious suites and common areas, and epicurean delights designed by Peruvian consulting chef Pedro Schiaffino. With 2 naturalist guides to 16 guests, an Aqua Mare Galapagos cruise is one of the Archipelago’s most exclusive experiences.
The Aqua Mare treats her guests to a luxurious experience, with spacious interiors and exteriors, including multiple dining and lounge areas, a unique water-level Beach Club and the largest Owner’s Suite in the Galapagos at 861 square feet (complete with its own butler service). Delicious and artful cuisine is designed by consulting chef Pedro Schiaffino. Two custom tender vessels, plus snorkel equipment, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards all enable off-ship adventure. And the service is unrivaled. Optional rendezvous scuba diving is available on select departures at added cost. Learn more about Galapagos diving. For these reasons and more, this lavish ship makes our list of Galapagos luxury cruises.
Highlights of the East Aqua Mare cruise include the birders’ paradise of Genovesa, the waved albatross unique to Espanola (Apr-Dec), hardened lava flows at Santiago Island’s Sullivan Bay, hiking along the natural volcanic formations of Los Gemelos and being greeted by groups of sea lions lounging in the rocks at Punta Suárez.
Highlights of the West Aqua Mare cruise include the red-sand beach of Rabida; a 17th-century pirate rest stop at Santiago; a visit to Post Office Bay on Floreana; penguin viewing along the western islands of Isabela and Fernandina; snorkeling with penguins, sea turtles and marine iguanas in Punta Espinoza; and possibly witnessing the courtship dance of blue-footed boobies in North Seymour.
Choose either 8-day itinerary or reward yourself with an adventure-of-a-lifetime on a full 15-day expedition. For a customized and even further personalized experience, book the Aqua Mare as one of our private Galapagos yacht charters for your group of 16 or fewer.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises and Galapagos trips.