M/V Spondias: Amazon River Cruises
Simply put: The best small ship cruise option in the Peruvian Amazon.
This boutique Amazon riverboat has only 4 air-conditioned cabins, ensuring personalized services. The smaller design allows it to travel tributaries other ships cannot and with a small group the itineraries can better be customized to fit interests of the guests. In addition to joining set departures, the ship is perfect for private charters by families, friends and small groups of 4 to 8 participants with a great price.
Private ship charters start at around $10,200 USD for 4 persons on a 4 Day cruise itinerary, which is only $2,550 per person!
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NOTE: The Spondias was custom built as the sister ship to the popular M/V Cattelya. The Cattelya is currently (2024) being totally rebuilt and should soon be in operation
The 4-days, or the 5-days, itineraries can be operated with a minimum of two passengers. The two itineraries can also be combined for a superior 8 day, Amazon River Cruise for 4 or more participants. The Spondias, is perfect for families and groups to have their own private boat on the Amazon River. With roll-a-way beds added for children to the king-bed suites, the maximum number for a private group is 12 people.
With a private charter, the beautiful ship serves well as your own yacht in the Amazon Rainforest. Contact us for charter pricing and custom itineraries for special interests such Peacock Bass Fishing!
Now offering: 8-Days, Tres Fronteras (Three Frontiers) cruises from Iquitos, Peru to Leticia, Colombia & Tabatinga, Brazil and back.
As a smaller-sized riverboat, you not only have a more personalized experience throughout, the Spondias can navigate further and into more of the Amazon River’s tributaries than other tourist ships, allowing for viewing options that other larger ships cannot provide. You will have the chance to experience the jungle up close with itineraries adjusted to suit the interests of the guests. Led by an expert naturalist guides (with no large groups to contend with), the daily excursions reveal the flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest and waters. With the exclusive small number of participants, you can have more intimate experience when visiting the local rivereños in their homes and villages. The gourmet cuisine onboard is superb and provides a chance to try local foods as well. Gain a rare glimpse of how life ‘on the river‘ is lived and experience the magic of the Amazon with personalized service!
PACAYA-SAMIRIA CRUISES
Explore along the Ucayali River: After a relaxing breakfast along the black-water of Belluda-Caño Creek, we will explore a small tributary of the Ucayali River looking for a variety of primates, colorful and unusual birds unique to the Amazon River basin and a wide variety of primates, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and rainforest plants. Our wildlife sightings and experiences will swell as we continue up river into the Pacaya-Samiria reserve, the largest wetland reserve in the world and home to over 500 species of birds,
Explore the Dorado River and the Sapote River: Venturing deep into the rainforest, we will spend the entire day wandering through the island mazes and twisted tunnels of the the igapo (seasonally flooded forest) where the dense plant life is dramatically different than what we see from the river’s edge and harbors a whole new variety of exotic wildlife. As water levels allow, we will hike through the reserve for close up viewing and discovery lead by our expert and knowledgeable guides. Examine and learn first-hand about the jungle plants – their unique survival tactics as they compete for sun and nutrients in the dense rainforest, the part they play in sustaining the complex balance of life in the jungle and the important medicinal value they offer.
Explore the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: After an early breakfast, we will further explore the vast wetlands of the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve. Add to your growing list of wildlife and bird sightings. See below and to the right side for more information about the rich reserve.
Meet the locals: You will visit homes and villages along the river for a chance to meet and learn about the lives of the “Ribereño” people who call the river’s edge their home. It is an excellent opportunity to ask questions (practice your Spanish if you like!) and gain a deeper understanding of how people live in this remote part of the world. You will learn about their cultural traditions and beliefs in addition to seeing how they have adapted to life in a tropical rainforest. In some villages, a wide variety of handmade handicrafts and delightful folk art will be available for your viewing and purchase.
Explore the beginning of the Amazon River: In the morning we slowly meander up-river toward the confluence of the Marañon and Ucayali Rivers, famous for marking the beginning of the mighty Amazon River. Observe small villages that dot the river’s edge and catch a glimpse of the locals’ activities as they go about their day.
M/V SPONDIAS PACAYA-SAMIRIA CRUISES
Contact us for Dates & Rates on available departures throughout the year
* Email us as soon as possible to set dates for private charters and for current promotions. The charter itineraries can be customized for number of days and interests.
Private ship charters start at around $10,200 USD for 4 persons on a 4 Day cruise itinerary, which is only $2,550 per person!
Children Discount: 8 years minimum on all programs, children under 13 years receive a 25% discount.
Single Supplement: Plus 25%
Rates include: all excursions, all meals, house wines with dinner, all non-alcoholic drinks, transfers from/to Iquitos airport on recommended flights, entrance fee to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.
Rates do not include: air flight cost Iquitos, cost of medical emergencies (including evacuation), premium alcoholic drinks, gratuities to guides and crew.
Deposit & Payment: $600 per person deposit for reservation with balance due 90 days prior to departure (plus any bank wire fees).
M/V SPONDIAS, 4 days / 3 nights Amazon River Cruise (Wednesday - Saturday)
Day 1
Fly Lima to Iquitos on the afternoon flight. You will be greeted upon arrival and transported to the M/V Spondias riverboat. Upon arrival, take some time to settle in, relax and have a drink as you get to know your fellow passengers. There will never be more than 8 guests, so you will have the opportunity to make life-long friends. We will conduct a safety drill and explain everything you need to know about the M/V Spondias to have a safe and fun adventure. Savor the first of many wonderful dinners by our talented chef as we begin our journey along the Amazon. (Dinner)
Day 2
Enjoy breakfast as we cruise along the Marañón River. Board our excursion boat for a day-long excursion in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, the largest reserve in Peru and the second largest in all the Amazon. Travel by excursion boat from Yanayacu Creek to the remote Yarina Cocha.
Day 3
In the morning we depart for our next adventure - a spectacular tour of the rainforest from its canopy. Take a short hike to the canopy walkway – a suspended bridge spanning over 500 meters (1/3 of a mile) connected by platforms in the rainforest treetops. Experience a unique view of the rainforest flora and fauna from heights reaching 35 meters (115 feet). After this breathtaking experience, enjoy lunch and some free time aboard the Acacia. In the afternoon we will visit one of the local villages to gain a deeper insight into how people live in Amazon. Meet a local shaman, participate in a traditional ceremony of spiritual healing.
Day 4
As we cruise slowly back down the Marañón River we will come to the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, where the “true” Amazon River begins. After lunch transfer to the Iquitos airport or your hotel. (Breakfast, Lunch)
M/V SPONDIAS: 5 days / 4 nights Amazon River Cruise (Saturday - Wednesday)
Day 1
Fly Lima to Iquitos on the afternoon flight. You will be greeted upon arrival and transported to the M/V Spondias riverboat. Upon arrival, take some time to settle in, relax and have a drink as you get to know your fellow passengers. There will never be more than 8 guests, so you will have the opportunity to make life-long friends. We will conduct a safety drill and explain everything you need to know about the M/V Spondias to have a safe and fun adventure. Savor the first of many wonderful dinners by our talented chef as we begin our journey along the Amazon. (Dinner)
Day 2
Ucayali River and Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: After a relaxing breakfast along the black-water of Belluda-Caño Creek, we will explore a small tributary of the Ucayali River looking for a variety of primates, colorful and unusual birds unique to the Amazon River basin and a wide variety of primates, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and rainforest plants. Our wildlife sightings and experiences will swell as we continue up river into the Pacaya-Samiria reserve, the largest wetland reserve in the world and home to over 500 species of birds, over 130 species of reptiles and amphibians and hundreds of mammals and primates. Have your binoculars and cameras on hand because our guides will expertly identify creatures difficult to spot with an untrained eye. After an invigorating day filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, return to relax in comfort aboard the M/V Spondias for a nourishing dinner and review of the day’s discoveries. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3
Dorado River / Sapote River / Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: Venturing deep into the rainforest, we will spend the entire day wandering through the island mazes and twisted tunnels of the the igapo (seasonally flooded forest) where the dense plant life is dramatically different than what we see from the river’s edge and harbors a whole new variety of exotic wildlife. As water levels allow, we will hike through the reserve for close up viewing and discovery lead by our expert and knowledgeable guides. Examine and learn first-hand about the jungle plants – their unique survival tactics as they compete for sun and nutrients in the dense rainforest, the part they play in sustaining the complex balance of life in the jungle and the important medicinal value they offer. Witness a brilliant Amazon sunset as we return to the M/V Spondias where you can savor a glass of wine with your expertly prepared dinner followed by some star-gazing on deck before you turn in for a well-deserved night’s sleep. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4
Day 5
As we cruise slowly back down the Marañón River we will come to the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, where the “true” Amazon River begins. After lunch transfer to the Iquitos airport or your hotel. (Breakfast, Lunch)
THREE FRONTIERS CRUISE, 8 Days & 7 Nights - PERU, COLOMBIA & BRAZIL
Contact us for Dates & Rates on available departures and private charters throughout the year
Travel 650 miles on the Amazon River!
Similar to the cruises we used to operate in the 1980’s, called the Tres Fronteras Cruise on the ships Rio Amazons and the Arca, this itinerary offers a wide variety of experiences and beautiful sailing on the Amazon River.
Day 1
Upon arrival, we will start our cultural visit to the famous floating town of Belen. Later, we will go back to board our modern and newly built river boat, the M/V Spondias. After taking some time to settle in, we will relax and have a drink as we get to know our fellow passengers. This will allow us the opportunity to make friends. As safety is our priority, we will conduct a safety drill and explain everything you need to know about the M/V Spondias in order to have a safe and exhilarating adventure. We will then savor the first of many authentic freshly prepared dinners by our talented chef as we begin our journey through the Amazon to the Three Frontiers! (Dinner)
Day 2
A bird watching activity by skiff will be the early excursion. We will then return to have breakfast and relax in comfort aboard M/V Spondias, followed by a skiff ride along the Napo River, where we will visit Orellana town. After this great activity it will be time to get back onboard for a nourishing lunch and review the day’s discoveries. Later, we will go for another skiff ride along Orán creek, and then a night excursion to discover the home species. After an invigorating day filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, we will go back onboard to enjoy our expertly prepared dinner and information on the activities of the following day. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3
The early morning offers another opportunity to watch the world awakening in the rainforest with a nice skiff ride along the Ampiyacu River, while enjoying one of many sunrises. After our nourishing breakfast, we will go for a cultural visit to the Boras or Witoto Indian people. There may also be an optional Visit the art gallery House to meet Francisco Grippa. Later, we will get back onboard to relax and have a lunch prepared by our talented chef. In the afternoon, we will go and have an introduction rainforest walk to witness a brilliant Amazon sunset as we return to the M/V Spondias. This will serve as an opportunity to savor a glass of wine or a pisco sour with your expertly prepared dinner. Information on the following day activities will also be available. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4
We will start with an early activity by skiff ride to observe macaws in their natural habitat and take some pictures. Then we will reboard to have breakfast and have a rest. Our next adventure will be to visit Paranaquiro river Village to interact with the local people. After lunch, we will go Pirahna fishing in a Black water lake and swimming with Pink Dolphins (Sun downer at Caballococha Lake) and an exciting visit to Caballococha town. Then a mototaxi ride around the city to enjoy the beautiful scenery under the nice sunset as we return to the M/V Spondias, where we will enjoy a delightful dinner and a farewell briefing about Colombia and Brazil. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5
Early breakfast will be ready for our departure to Colombia and Brazil, where we will do a city tour of Leticia, Colombia and Tabatinga, Brazil. We will then head back to the M/V Spondias where you will savor another expertly prepared dish by our talented chef. Later in the afternoon, we will go to the Monkey island exploration activity to enjoy the rainforest sunset. Then back to the M/V Spondias for a nourishing dinner and information on the following day activities. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6
Our day will start with an early skiff ride exploration all along the Amazon in search of wildlife. After our nourishing breakfast, we will be ready for a rainforest walk in high ground Terra Firme as we go back to the M/V Spondias to have lunch. Our skiff will be ready for our next activity: a skiff ride under a glorious sunset to enjoy one of the most beautiful sceneries of the night and the rainforest symphony. Later in the night, we will go back to the M/V Spondias to get comfortable and share our experience of the last activity at dinner time. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7
The day starts with an exploration activity by skiff, looking for wildlife to witness how incredible it is. Then, in the afternoon, after breakfast, we will go for a cultural visit to the Yaguas Indian people. After this, we will enjoy a warm goodbye from the people as we return by skiff to the Spondias to relax and have lunch. Later, we will go Piranha fishing at Apayacu lake and sun downer, where you will have the opportunity to take pictures of the last sunset as we go back to the comfort of the ship. As we cruise slowly back toward Nauta, we will join the crew and all our new friends in a farewell dinner of authentic Peruvian cuisine and a celebration of your great experience. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8
Our last day start with nourishing breakfast before the goodbye from the crew members as we do the disembarking procedures and get ready for the transfer to the airport, which will mark the end of this adventure to the three frontiers.
NOTE:
Activities may change depending on weather conditions
What’s Included?
• 7 nights aboard the M/V Spondias.
• Airport (or hotel) transfers IN / OUT.
• Launches and land excursions with our expert naturalist team.
• All meals.
• 24 hour restaurant service.
• Small group experience, Maximum of 8.
What’s not included?
• Flights
• Laundry service
M/V SPONDIAS SHIP
Constructed in 2015, the Spondias is 73.5 feet (22 meters) long, the beam is 19 feet, draft is 6.3 feet.. With a 185 hp caterpillar engine she cruises at 16 knots. The caterpillar 48 KW encapsulated generator provides power for the 220/110 volt electrical system. Communication is by UHF and VHF radios, and by satellite phone. The air-conditioned dining-room includes bar with TV/DVD. The ship carries a crew of 8 to 12 staff, with two professional Naturalist Guides when there are 8 participants.
The boutique-style riverboat has only 4 guest cabins with king beds. A roller bed can accommodate a child in each cabin and two of the cabins and be connected. All cabins are air-conditioned and have private baths with hot water showers and 100% organic bathroom accessories, 110 & 220 volt outlets, fine linens/towels and
Constructed: 2015
Cabins: 4
Length: 73.5 feet / 22 meters
Beam: 19 feet / 5.8 meters
Draft: 6.3 feet / 2 meters
Lifejackets: In all cabins
Social Areas: Dining Room, Observation Deck, Lounge
Cruising Speed: 16 knots
Engine: Caterpillar 185 HP
Generator: Caterpillar 48 KW (encapsulated)
Radio Communications: VHF, UHF, Satellite Telephone
STAFF
Crew: 8
Naturalist Guides: 2 (fluent English speakers)
Wildlife
Amazon wildlife that you are likely to see include during your explorations include: pink dolphins, the smaller grey river dolphin, pre-historic looking hoatzin birds, sloths, monkeys, colorful tree frogs and toads, iguanas, toucans, parrots, macaws, kingfishers, horned screamers, herons, terns, hummingbirds, caiman, leaf cutter and army ants, piranhas, primeval looking catfish, strange looking insects and of course, a myriad of beautiful butterflies such as the iridescent blue Morpho. More rarely encountered are river otter, manatees, capybaras, anteaters, electric eels, the large tapir, and jungle cats. You can also experience perhaps the strangest wildlife of all; the nightlife on a ship in the middle of the Amazon Rainforest!
PACAYA SAMIRIA NATIONAL RESERVE
This National Park is the largest Protected Natural Area in Peru (2´080,000 ha), located at 300 km / 190 miles from Iquitos and is accessible only by waterways.
The wealth of the low lying Virgin Rainforest gives this area an enormous bio-diversity. The National Reserve has many lakes and lagoons and vast swamp areas. Practically unexplored and uninhabited except for protected species in the interior, it offers an astonishing potential for research studies and observation of wild life, particularly of certain species in danger of extinction in other areas.
This area has more than 85 lakes and exuberant vegetation with a great variety of flora species such as the Lupuna Tree, measuring up to 160 feet tall with a diameter of 10 feet in four forest types. It also has 130 species of mammals such as the Jaguar, Ocelots, Giant River Otters and Capybara (the world's biggest rodent), and several species of monkeys in danger of extinction, like the black Maquisapa or Spider Monkey, the Yellow breast and the Common Woolly Monkey.
A cruise to the Reserve offers the opportunity to know new cultures and to explore the mysterious and magic world of the Amazon forest. It offers a variety of activities, as diverse as the forest itself. Along with excellent bird and wildife viewing, you can witness a countless variety of flora and fauna, go fishing, save memories with photographs, admire the Pink River Dolphins, learn about Shamanism and medicinal plants, all while observing life on the Amazon River.
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