Spend 4 or 5 days exploring the Peruvian Amazon and Pacaya Samiria National Reserve aboard the 43-guest river cruise ship Delfin III. If wildlife viewing is your goal, the Delfin III Amazon River Cruise is the perfect choice. Expert guides are dedicated to pointing out Amazon animals—creatures hidden deep within the rainforest, such as blue and yellow macaws, scarlet macaws, toucans, umbrella birds, monkeys, river otters, capybaras and more.
Highlights of the Delfin III Amazon Cruise include lengthy explorations aboard aluminum skiffs, sometimes taking breakfast aboard skiffs in order to take full advantage of wildlife viewing opportunities. Eight-passenger skiffs allow gentle, guided excursions to places like Yanayacu Pucate and the Fundo Casual jungle trail, within the best preserved and protected zones of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
The 43-guest Delfin III immerses her passengers in the rainforest experience while simultaneously treating them to the highest levels of luxury. Beautifully finished with the finest details—panoramic windows, hardwood floors, designer furniture and handmade Peruvian artifacts—she is the perfect luxury river vessel for exploring as much wildlife as the Amazon has to offer.
The Delfin III offers high-water and low-water itineraries. High-water season is November to May and may allow for more extensive exploration and access via water. These months are ideal for travelers who prefer to duck into otherwise isolated corners of the reserve aboard speedy boats. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks. This time of year is ideal for travelers who prefer to walk through the rainforest and discover its flora and fauna. All listed activities depend on water levels, weather and season. Travelers equipped with a sense of adventure and openness tend to enjoy their Delfin III journey in the Amazon rainforest even more.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
The 168-foot-long Delfin III (formerly called the Amazon Discovery) is an exquisite ship built in 2015 and re-imagined in 2017 to explore the rainforest and rivers of the Amazon. Accommodations on board the Delfin III provide an extraordinary level of comfort and style with spacious, well-appointed suites that offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic picture windows, individual climate control, daily housekeeping with turndown service, the finest bed linens and duvets, all-natural therapeutic bath amenities, copious amounts of storage space and much more. This luxury 43-guest river cruise ship is the perfect size to sail along the Amazon River.
Delfin III is the perfect blend of elegance and authenticity. Attentive staff, large cabins, fresh and exotic local cuisine make for the a great luxurious cruise choice in the Amazon. In 2018, Delfin III became the first ship in the world to join the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association, per her showcase of the unique history and rich cultural heritage of the Peruvian Amazon, as well as her commitment to preserving the environment. Also supporting this honor is Delfin III’s superb cuisine, an expression of culinary arts that blends the culture and terroir of the region she cruises in.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Delfin III firsthand. Read our dedicated Delfin Amazon Review written by our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the river boat, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and photo gallery and current links to all Delfin III Amazon River cruise itineraries, dates and rates. We can help compare the Delfin III with her sister ships, other small cruise ships, and riverboats offering Amazon cruises.
The Delfin III has beautiful details and comfortable spaces that include indoor and outdoor lounges, outdoor plunge pool, large dining room, gym and spa. Exquisite details can be found around every corner with inspiration and touches of nature infused in the decor. The open-air Sun Deck is the hub of activity with cushioned chaise lounges, a sparkling plunge pool and shaded lounge.
The air-conditioned Canopy Lounge keeps you connected to the rainforest with floor-to-ceiling, panoramic windows and locally inspired decor. Here, cultural performances, lively discussions with expert naturalists, Peruvian cooking classes and nightly entertainment around the bar enrich and delight as the ship’s staff members cater to your every whim.
Delfin III is outfitted with deluxe 16-person skiff excursion boats, as well as kayaks and paddle boards for guests to explore the wildlife and rainforest up close. A selection of double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offers opportunities to paddle while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the largest flooded protected areas in the world. Engaging onboard activities include wildlife lectures, jungle fruit demonstrations, a cooking class, a Pisco Sour class and live music. Also on board, the Rainforest Spa offers the Amazonian tradition of using mystique-filled tinctures and exotic elixirs to cure with indulgent remedies remains, and the boutique features local artisan handicrafts that benefit the communities in which they’re produced.
Every effort is made to ensure the safety of all passengers aboard the Delfin III. The vessel is equipped with a radio communication system, satellite phone, life jackets, flare signals, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, and an onboard defibrillator.
There are four main cabins types aboard the Delfin III. All cabins have all-natural spa-quality bath amenities, nightly turndown service, in-room electronic safe, individual climate control, luxury cotton linens with duvet, premium mattresses, purified water replenished daily, multi-configuration plugs 110v/220v, generous closet space and under-bed storage, hair dryer, makeup mirror, iron and ironing board. Additional amenities for Corner and Owner’s Suites include a complimentary 30-minute spa treatment per guest, laundry service (limited to 10 pieces twice per cruise), stocked mini-bar and scented bath upon request.
The 8-guest Delfin I is one of the most intimate, luxurious and active vessels from which to experience Amazon Peru. Cruise in splendid harmony through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve on this 4- or 5-day Amazon cruise aboard the Delfin I, which boasts only 4 suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies—a truly unique Amazon small ship experience.
The rich rainforest ecosystem permeates every aspect of the vessel and operations: irapay leaves (typically seen on residential huts) form the Delfin I’s waterproof roof, lamps made from paiche fish scales adorn common areas, quality woods from the forest form the very boat and suites, and custom-made repellants and lotions made of natural jungle ingredients serve every guest. Itineraries are carefully crafted to showcase the best flora and fauna of the Marañon and Ucayali Rivers in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
Highlights of all Delfin I Amazon River Cruise itineraries include added adventure options like stand-up paddleboarding and a fleet of double kayaks, plus a canopy walk, high above the jungle floor. A visit to the Rescue & Rehabilitation Center of River Mammals (Amazon Forever) in Iquitos to meet baby manatees and other animals perfectly rounds out this Amazon small ship cruise.
The Delfin I offers high-water and low-water itineraries. High-water season is November to May and may allow for more extensive exploration and access via water. These months are ideal for travelers who prefer to duck into otherwise isolated corners of the reserve aboard speedy boats. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks. This time of year is ideal for travelers who prefer to walk through the rainforest and discover its flora and fauna. All listed activities depend on water levels, weather and season. Travelers equipped with a sense of adventure and openness tend to enjoy their Delfin III journey in the Amazon rainforest even more.
Travel aboard the luxurious 8-guest river vessel Delfin I for comfort, panoramic windows and suites with private terraces, two with cold-water whirlpool baths. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her mix of luxury and her intimate size.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
The spacious 8-guest river vessel Delfin I is one step beyond luxury. Comfort and grace combine effortlessly with the wilderness of the Amazon River on this unique riverboat that showcases the Amazon from window-wrapped luxury suites with private terraces, two of which feature private cold-water whirlpool baths.
Choose the Delfin I for a truly intimate experience in the Peruvian Amazon. Every suite is incredibly spacious with large private bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. With only 8 guests and 13 crew members, the focus really is on providing personalized experiences that include hands-on activities, enthusiastic guides and extremely fine dining.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Delfin I firsthand. Read our dedicated Delfin Amazon Review written by our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the river boat, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and photo gallery and current links to all Delfin I Amazon River cruise itineraries, dates and rates. We can help compare the Delfin I with her sister ships, other small cruise ships, and riverboats offering Amazon cruises, including private charter cruises.
Delfin has made it a high priority to give back to the Amazon’s communities as much as the local people have enriched their travelers’ experiences. Handmade, custom-designed artisanal wares made by the village women vibrantly enhance every Suite and dining room on board and often the community men with lightning-fast reflexes accompany trail walks to make sure you don’t miss fast-moving poison dart frogs or slithering anacondas! Community visits bring travelers together with the local people, allowing for cultural exchange at both ends. The rainforest’s various cultures and lifestyles have long resolved how to live together in harmony, and Delfin promises to uphold this natural, delicate synergy.
The most popular social area is the top Observation Deck, a casually elegant setting that creates a welcoming and peaceful environment for those who want to get away from it all. Enjoy luxury and comfort seated on soft, large sofas while seeking the breathtaking sights of the Amazon and the brilliant stargazing at night. An open bridge policy invites guests to learn about the navigation systems and spend time with the captain. The Delfin I is also equipped with an entertainment center, a range of DVDs and reading material about the Amazon rainforest and a boutique selling local arts and crafts, as well as artwork by the women of the Puerto Miguel community. By buying this beautiful work, Delfin I guests help provide the children of this community with enough school aids to be used in the entire school year. A bar offers a variety of international and local drinks. Coffee and tea is always available.
The creative and specialized kitchen and crew work hard to present balanced and exquisite menus every day. A full menu of foods and beverages prepared in utmost Peruvian style, quality and originality are served at one large table for all 8 guests to enjoy together. The innovative chef surprises with the most exotic culinary delights, always freshly prepared in the school of Peruvian gourmet gastronomy infused with touches and inspirations from the surrounding rainforest. Special diets and restrictions are happily accommodated with prior notice.
The Delfin I carries two aluminum skiff boats, each with capacity for 10 guests, to enable up-close exploration of the surrounding rainforest and its waterways. A selection of double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offers opportunities to paddle while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the largest flooded protected areas in the world. Engaging onboard activities include wildlife lectures, jungle fruit demonstrations, a cooking class, a Pisco Sour class and live music.
A talented and experienced team of naturalist and interpretive Amazon River guides are the most important and essential ingredient in Delfin cruises. Their expert knowledge of plants and bird life, and the history of this part of the Amazon is the difference between a visit to Peru and an unforgettable life experience in the jungle. With decades of combined experience, most Delfin guides were born and raised in the rainforest they now call their office, in small communities that are spread throughout the Peruvian Amazon. They spent their childhoods walking the forest paths, climbing trees to pick fruit, fishing the small streams and chasing iguanas along the shoreline. Many of them have also participated in training sessions and projects with Peruvian and North American professors, researchers, scientists and other professionals of similar leagues. All guides are bilingual in Spanish and English, and some have additional language aptitudes. You will also discover during a cruise that they have delightful musical talents to boast!
Delfin I features 4 luxury suites, each with private terraces and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Room amenities include a mini fridge, an in-suite seating area with a sofa bed (may be converted into one additional bed), fine Peruvian linens, environmentally friendly amenities, air-conditioning, large private bathrooms, hot water showers with organic toiletries, hair dryer, safe box, yoga mat and binoculars. Each suite may be made up to have one king or two double beds and is decorated using native design elements and handicrafts.
The Delfin II is an exclusive home base for Amazon River cruising. This luxury, 28-guest riverboat combines comfort and grace effortlessly with the wilderness of the Amazon. Expect world-class hospitality, fine dining and great company aboard. As much of the river as on it and locally built, Delfin II’s iron exterior is clad in tropical hardwoods and her interior gleams with wood floors and lacquered palm ceilings. Wood stairs float between decks and lazily turning ceiling fans add the right tropical notes, while the air- conditioning invisibly cools and dehumidifies.
Choose the Delfin II for her operator’s local way of doing things, for sourcing local foods and hiring local guides. If luxury and authenticity are important to you, the Delfin II is the perfectly sized river vessel bringing influence and cultural awareness to every cruise through the Peruvian Amazon.
AdventureSmith founder and president Todd Smith was one of the first people to see the Delfin II under construction in the busy port of Iquitos in 2009. Her hull had just been built and huge steel deck and wall plates were beginning to form cabins on the upper decks. He was amazed at the resourcefulness and ingenuity that went in to building what has become one of the finest ships built in this remote port city. A huge palapa, perhaps 50 feet wide and 150 feet long, covered the work site to protect it from weather because Aldo Machiavello, the owner of Delfin Amazon Cruises, learned quickly that if it rained, which it frequently does in Iquitos, the workers would simply go home. Today, the Delfin II remains one of the most innovative and sustainable ships in the Amazon and is the first with a full fleet of kayaks for every guest to enjoy.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Delfin II firsthand. Read our dedicated Delfin Amazon Review written by our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the river boat, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and photo gallery. We can help compare the Delfin II with her sister ships, other small cruise ships, and riverboats offering Amazon cruises.
Social spaces aboard Delfin II include a beautifully styled Dining Room and an enclosed Lecture Room on the Upper Deck. The Lecture Room is equipped with a full set of media equipment and print materials so you can learn more about the wonderful Peruvian Amazon. During leisure moments, the Lecture Room may be enjoyed as a lounge, complete with computers for picture sharing, handmade game tables and air conditioning. This lovely space has been warmly designed and carefully supervised by Delfin co-owner Lissy Urteaga, featuring artwork from Peru’s leading contemporary artists. If any artwork strikes your fancy, you may purchase it and the Delfin crew will have it shipped to the comforts of your home.
To complement your daily rainforest excursions, the Delfin II offers a newly restored exercise space and an onboard wellness specialist and spa room. Whether you enjoy aerobic exercises or cardio, the onboard Gym resources are available at your disposal. Better yet, the floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to never miss a second of the vibrant jungle scenery outside.
On the third deck, you will find that the casual yet comfortable design will allow you to relax between the morning and night’s adventures and activities. Delfin’s goal is to provide you with the highest level of service, so they are sure you will enjoy relaxing in the open air lounge’s large soft sofas while you kick back and watch the river go by. Delfin’s bartender will always be ready with a choice of international and local liquors for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail. Coffee and tea are always available.
Located on the second deck, the dining room on the Delfin II offers an ambiance created by glowing candlelight, sparkling china and elegant crystal ware. Memorable goes hand in hand with a Delfin experience. Peruvian cuisine is considered one of the world’s finest and reflects the country’s intrinsic cultural diversity.
Delfin II’s dedicated staff pride themselves on carefully preparing contemporary Creole plates and offer exceptional service for your ultimate indulgence. The Amazon’s wild choices of fresh ingredients and the gentle blend of worldly immigrant traditions will enchant your taste buds. Handmade plateware, locally made table decorations changing from meal to meal and instrumental music performed by the staff create the ambiance to make each meal an unforgettable experience.
The Delfin II is equipped with two aluminum skiff boats, each with capacity for 10 guests, to enable up-close exploration of the surrounding jungle and its estuaries. A full fleet of of double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offers opportunities to paddle while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the largest flooded protected areas in the world. Onboard activities invite guests to learn about the surrounding wildlife during lectures; taste the rainforest via jungle fruit demonstrations, a cooking class and a Pisco Sour class; and move to live music.
Delfin II has 14 large guest suites that include 4 Master Suites with 180° panoramic windows, and 10 Suites, 4 of which can be interconnected to accommodate families. All suites measure 360 square feet. Each with panoramic windows and natural elements, each suite offers all the comforts provided by world class lodging yet with the spirit of casual and refined elegance. Expect 100% 280-thread Peruvian cotton sheets and bedspreads, orthopedic mattresses, all cotton towels & bathrobes, the finest organic amenities, silent air conditioning units, the most wonderful views and individual reading lights; all create the epitome of luxury enjoyment. Bathrooms include a large shower, separate toilet and sink area.