Save 20-35% per person when you book your select July-November 2024 departure of the below-linked Amatista Amazon Cruise.
Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all Amazon cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.
Hop aboard the purpose-built, 28-guest Amatista riverboat and experience the Peruvian Amazon in style. Led by an Amazon Reserve naturalist guide, the 9-day Amatista Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Lima, Peru, and includes daily excursions by motorized skiff designed to reveal the exotic rainforest wildlife. Explore by day on exciting hikes and skiff rides, searching for a plethora of bird species, hidden sloths, toucans and the famous pink Amazon river dolphins; by night the challenge is to spot bats, capybaras, black caimans, poison frogs and even jaguars.
This exploration of the Amazon’s famous Pacaya Samiria National Reserve provides an up-close understanding of the Amazon jungle with experienced naturalist guides who are dedicated to minimizing the impact of your expedition on wildlife and sensitive natural habitats. Immerse fully into the Peruvian Amazon lifestyle on board with regional cuisines that provide a unique and delicious window into local culture. Gain a rare glimpse of how life on the river is lived by local people and experience the magic of the Amazon on this once-in-a-lifetime riverboat adventure.
As an added bonus, the Amatista Amazon cruise is part of the Jane Goodall Collection: a selection of wildlife-focused tours endorsed by the world renowned primatologist. A portion of every cruise booking helps support the mission of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, to protect wildlife and work with local communities to become their partners in conservation.
Itineraries in the Peruvian Amazon vary based on high-water season and low-water season. High-water season is November to May and may allow for more extensive exploration and access via water. Low-water season is June through October and may allow for more trail walks. All listed activities depend on water levels, weather and season. Travelers equipped with a sense of adventure and openness tend to enjoy their experience in the Amazon jungle more.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
The 124-foot M/V Amatista, sailing in the Peruvian Amazon River, was built with traditional riverboat lines yet boasts such comforts as air-conditioned cabins and private bathrooms for a maximum of 28 passengers. Boasting roomy public spaces, a cheery upper deck, and stunning, take-it-all-in sightlines, the ship’s decks are the perfect spot from which to survey the pristine rainforest and the dazzling array of colorful birdlife that inhabit it. Spacious, comfortable and well-adorned, the Amatista is an ideal Amazon small cruise ship.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Amatista review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our Amazon experts have been aboard the Amatista firsthand. Please read our Amatista review below then contact our experts to compare the Amatista with other small cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises.
Choose the Amatista for her size, which is perfect for navigating the Amazon River, with a spacious dining room, fully-stocked bar, lounge room for a cool escape from mosquitoes, basic sleeping berths and open bridge policy. The Amatista is not a luxury boat but provides all the basic accommodations necessary to have a successful, adventurous experience in the Amazon.
The exterior bar-lounge, interior lounge/lecture room, dining room and observation deck offer full views of the Peruvian Amazon. Amatista’s exterior passageways offers nonstop views of the river, as passengers find plenty of opportunities to stand outside their private cabins or socialize in common areas. The covered sun deck lounge with bar offers a 360-degree panoramic view.
Inspired by the tropical flavors of the Amazon, the food and beverages on Amatista are prepared with fresh local ingredients. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are enjoyed buffet style in the dining room, highlighting the region’s fusion cuisine. All meals include a variety of salads and fruits, and a bread. Vegetarian dishes, gluten-free meals and children’s menus are available upon request made in advance. An outdoor BBQ may be offered, weather-depending. Complimentary tea and coffee is served all day, while juice and snacks are available for purchase.
Activities aboard Amatista are designed to capitalize on fluctuating water levels in Peru’s Amazon, which means the order of activities may shift depending on weather, water levels, the captain, crew and guides in order to see the most wildlife as possible. Two naturalist guides present daily briefings for the morning and afternoon excursions to prepare guests for the adventurers ahead. Activities often include skiff rides, jungle walks, night excursions by skiff, swimming, fishing for piranha and visits to local communities.
A crew of 15 ensures the Amatista riverboat cruises smoothly, while two naturalist bilingual guides (English and Spanish speaking) take care of guests’ educational and adventure needs.
There are 7 upper deck cabins and 7 lower deck cabins, all with independently controlled air conditioning units. Each cabin features beautiful classic style wood veneer, exterior view windows, a private bathroom with shower, desk with lockable drawer, wardrobe, chest of drawers, dresser, hairdryer and amenities basket, as well as smoke detectors and hot water 24 hours a day. Electricity in cabins and common areas is 110V.
Join this 14-day Quest for the Antarctic Circle aboard M/S Expedition to our planet’s last frontier—a mysterious and virtually pristine paradise. If weather allows, cross into this rarely visited location and celebrate with fellow travelers as one of the few who have traveled as far south as the Antarctic Circle. Meanwhile, a massive rookery of penguins shuffles across a frozen shore. A pod of whales glides through frigid waters. Dramatic landscapes float off in the distance…welcome to Antarctica.
Spend 7 full days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula, traveling farther south than most have ever gone. Spend time on deck searching for whales, watching soaring albatross and viewing colossal icebergs pass by. With two attempted shore landings a day at the Antarctic Peninsula, get up close to a variety of penguin and seal species. Discover the history and intricacies of the Antarctic region through the onboard lecture program.
Guests can also partake in the Citizen Science program, an interactive information gathering initiative aimed at better understanding marine mammals in Antarctica. With a little guidance beforehand, learn which angles and types of wildlife the program is looking for during your voyage and put your photography skills to the test! The reward is making a meaningful contribution to science.
The ice-strengthened, 134-guest Expedition small ship is ideally suited for cruising this icy wilderness. Her expert staff are on hand at all times to ensure guests fully appreciate the majesty of Antarctica. Prepare yourself for an adventure like no other—more like a private expedition than a traditional small ship cruise.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica.
This 11- or 13-day Antarctic Peninsula Aboard Expedition cruise introduces the magic of the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. Passing huge icebergs in the flat calm of a polar morning reshapes one’s view of the world. Encounter huge whales, enormous rookeries of penguins and stunning landscapes that few others have witnessed.
Watch majestic albatross soar by the ship while crossing the Drake Passage. Opt to brave the chill of a polar plunge. Some departures offer kayaking and even camping (at an additional cost). And best of all, set foot on Antarctica—the world’s least-visited continent. Throughout the voyage, enjoy lectures by guides eager to share their knowledge of the region’s remarkable wildlife, natural and human history.
You can also partake in the Citizen Science program, an interactive information gathering initiative aimed at better understanding marine mammals in Antarctica. With a little guidance beforehand, learn which angles and types of wildlife the program is looking for during your voyage and put your photography skills to the test! The reward is making a meaningful contribution to science.
Other highlights include exploring the port town of Ushuaia. Learn about Antarctic wildlife, geology and history from highly skilled historians, marine biologists and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure. With one expert for every 10 guests there is always someone on hand to answer questions and provide greater insight and appreciation of the world at its extremes. During regular excursions, watch for penguins, seals and whales while getting up close to towering icebergs and glaciers.
The main Antarctica Peninsula Aboard Expedition itinerary cruises over 11 days and there is also a longer 13-day itinerary that spends two additional days exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. The ice-strengthened, 134-guest Expedition small ship is ideally suited for cruising this icy wilderness, and its expert staff are on hand to ensure guests fully appreciate the majesty of Antarctica. This classic Antarctica voyage is a true adventure to the world’s most remote wilderness!
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and trips to Antarctica.
The 21-day Spirit of Shackleton Aboard Expedition voyage explores vast penguin rookeries and seal colonies and retraces part of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s route backwards on course towards Elephant Island and the Antarctic Peninsula. Onboard lectures illuminate Shackleton’s journey with his crew, who in early 1915 abandoned their ice-trapped ship Endurance to live on floating ice, eventually reaching Elephant Island in three small boats. Their heroics and Shackleton’s legendary efforts to rescue his men are part of Antarctica’s inspiring human history.
Visit Sir Ernest Shackleton’s final resting place and other historical sites of past explorers on the wildlife-rich island of South Georgia. Learn the biological diversity of the Falkland Islands while photographing abundant penguin rookeries and the largest black-browed albatross colony in the world. Enjoy opportunities to visit the post office and even go golfing at Port Stanley, home to one of the most southerly golf courses in the world. Visit with Port Stanley locals whose colorful homes contrast with the long southern winters, and meet scientists working in modern research bases, weather permitting. Days at sea are filled with lectures by an expedition team that comprises professional and skilled historians, marine biologists and naturalists who offer keen insight and a unique personal perspective to each and every adventure.
Guests can also partake in the Citizen Science program, an interactive information gathering initiative aimed at better understanding marine mammals in Antarctica. With a little guidance beforehand, learn which angles and types of wildlife the program is looking for during your voyage and put your photography skills to the test! The reward is making meaningful contributions to science.
In addition to the main 21-day itinerary, there is also a 22-day route that begins in Montevideo, Uruguay, and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina. This longer itinerary spends one extra day at the Falkland Islands.
The 134-guest M/S Expedition operates the Spirit of Shackleton Aboard Expedition voyage, allowing travelers who seek true adventure to fill their days with history, remoteness and the breathtaking beauty of Antarctica. Enjoy the chance to set foot on the White Continent, equipped with the spirit of those who have attempted it before.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Antarctica cruises and South Georgia cruises.
At a nimble 345 feet in length, with a capacity of 134 guests, the MS Expedition is an ideal vessel to ply polar waters. Her large outside decks offer panoramic views and her cabins are some of the largest in the industry, all boasting an ocean-facing window or porthole and private en-suite facilities.
Choose the MS Expedition for one of the fastest, safest ships sailing the polar regions and for her large common spaces and viewing decks. Also choose her for a seamless expedition/operations experience, as the MS Expedition is operator-owned. The Expedition’s focus on top-of-the line safety, comfort and ability to meet the demands of polar travel, makes her one of the world’s leading polar expedition cruise ships. Her forward-looking sonar reduces the risk of grounding on uncharted reefs. This ship is equipped with new and regularly serviced lifeboats and life rafts. Its four partially enclosed lifeboats provide capacity for all passengers and crew. In addition, she has full cold-weather immersion suits for all. A 2009 renovation resulted in a $13 million refurbishment, and a $10 million upgrade in 2015 gave the Expedition new engines and a faster cruising speed.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Expedition firsthand, and can help you compare the Expedition with other polar expedition ships that offer Antarctica cruises. Read our dedicated MS Expedition Ship Review written by one of our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the Expedition, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images and a photo gallery. We’ve been aboard many Antarctica ships and can be your ultimate resource to discover if this is the best ship choice for your travel needs.
Reusable bags on board enable beach cleanups while exploring polar shorelines, as part of Expedition’s Marine Debris program. A compactor on board the ship efficiently collects trash over the ship’s sailing season; the trash is then delivered to Svalbard to be recycled.
Unlike many expedition ships, where public space is at a premium, the Expedition has multiple large public areas, all providing superior views to enjoy during sea crossings and in between land excursions. Enjoy sweeping panoramas from the ship’s 360-degree upper decks, while a raised observation platform provides a great vantage point from which to spot unique wildlife and the large aft deck offers additional viewing options and hosts a sunny day barbecue.
Unlike many other ships, the Expedition also offers breathtaking views from its interior so passengers can relax in the warmth and comfort of the dining room, lounge or pub without being cut off from the remarkable environment. The Lonely Planet Library is stocked with iPads, the ship’s daily newspaper, books on the flora and fauna of the polar regions and an extensive selection of Lonely Planet guidebooks. The Discovery Lounge comfortably seats all passengers at once, providing an inviting space to take in on-ship lectures, briefings and recaps. The Polar Bear Pub offers a cozy spot to unwind and reflect and also provides music most nights and a wide selection of beverages and entertaining bartenders serving them up. The gym features state-of-the-art equipment alongside a soothing sauna.
Other common area highlights include a heated mud room, gift shop, medical clinic and a computer room with internet where available (additional cost).
A diversity of gourmet international cuisines are prepared and catered by professional chefs. Dining is casual, tables are unassigned and the Albatross Dining Room is capable of seating the full complement of passengers at one time. There is always a selection of different meals available and vegetarians will find plenty of options. Breakfast and lunch are buffets while dinner is served plated. Special dietary requirements, including celiac disease, can be accommodated with advance notice. Coffee, tea and water are all provided free of charge, with special afternoon tea service and snacks and coffee sourced from a partnership with Mi Cafecito. All other beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, can be purchased in the dining room, pub or lounge.
The ship’s crew is dedicated to ensuring every journey exceeds travelers’ expectations. From the Expedition captain who has successfully navigated over 100 ice cruises, to the ship’s expedition leader with over 30 years experience in polar expeditions, they are amongst the most experienced and skilled in their field. Experts in everything from geology to marine biology and photography to polar history, the members of the Expedition team are always eager to share their infectious passion for the plants, animals and historic figures of the polar regions. A 10:1 passenger-to-guide ratio means more on-hand experts, deeper access and greater understanding throughout the voyage.
The large fleet of Zodiacs are launched from a special platform, ensuring comfort and ease of accessibility for Zodiac cruises and shore landings. Citizen science opportunities abound on all of Expedition’s departures, encouraging guests to participate in key sample collections. The Expedition offers kayaks and camping gear for off-ship adventures. Swipe ID cards enable easy, swift access to the ship, with the entire passenger complement only requiring 30 minutes to load or unload from the Zodiacs. On board, the Expedition’s crew create a fun atmosphere with activities including game nights; performances by the resident musician; and an “Embrace the Bizarre” night featuring the crew band, strobe lights and a conga line. The onboard costume closet encourages guest participation in the fun. And for the adventurous wedding planner, an added-cost wedding package offers the option to be married by the captain.
Top-of-the-line cabins provide a variety of affordable doubles, triples and quads, as well as higher-end double cabins and luxurious suites. Dedicated single cabins are also available in category 2 and higher. All cabins provide views (window or porthole), a wardrobe, drawers, a nightstand, a writing desk and a full private en-suite bathroom with hairdryer. Daily cabin service makes sure the stateroom is clean, warm and inviting.
The electricity on board is 220AC electrical outlets, with European 2-pin round holes, as well as 110-volt shaving sockets in the bathroom for electric razors only. An international adapter may be needed. Electrical adapters are available to borrow free of charge at the Purser’s Desk.