
Aqua Nera
State-of-the-art sailing in the Peruvian Amazon
Good for
Dining Experiences, Twice-Daily Excursions, Plunge Pool, Gym Facilities, Spa Services
What to expect from Aqua Nera
Overview
Drawing inspiration from the enchanting black water lagoons of the Peruvian Amazon, the award-winning Aqua Nera represents the epitome of luxury river cruising.
The 20-suite vessel boasts exquisite design by renowned architects Noor Design. From the spacious design suites to the wealth of social spaces, Aqua Nera’s interiors exude refined elegance, marrying contemporary design with local heritage, adorned with tasteful accents from the rubber boom era and vibrant cultures of Portugal, Spain, and Peru.
With a distinctive design philosophy and a spacious layout, Aqua Nera is built for ultimate comfort and relaxation on the Amazon River, featuring social spaces that are second-to-none. Equipped with a gym, plunge pool, movie room, spa, and even a games room, guests will have everything they need to feel at home while sailing through the heart of the Amazon.
Operating in tandem with its sister vessel, Aria Amazon, Aqua Nera’s journey into the depths of the Peruvian Amazon is accompanied by the culinary genius of celebrated chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Expert naturalist guides lead twice-daily excursions in small groups, allowing guests to encounter the thriving wildlife of the world's most biodiverse rainforest.
Aqua Nera is registered in Peru and adheres to the highest safety standards, compliant with the International Safety Management (ISM) regulations. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of this region.
Accommodation
Discover the most luxurious floating accommodations in the Peruvian Amazon
Presenting 20 design suites, your accommodation on the most luxurious ship in the Amazon features premium fittings and bedding, as well as central air-conditioning and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows to admire the endless beauty of the Amazon River and rainforest.
Suite
Amenities- Deluxe ensuite bathrooms with spacious walk-in shower, and overhead rain-shower
- Equipped with pampering organic natural hair and bath amenities
- Premium king-sized bed or twin beds
- Floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows
- In-room sofa
- Fully air-conditioned
- Electronic safe
- Music docking station
Interconnecting Suites
Option to connect the following suites: 105 & 107 / 106 & 108 / 205 & 207 / 206 & 208
Decks
Top Deck
- Sundeck
- Gym
- Billiard Room
- Screening Room
- Indoor Lounge & Bar
- Outdoor Lounge
- Plunge Pool
Second Deck
- Dining Area
- Reception
- Boutique
- Lobby Lounge
-
Suites
- Suites with Interconnecting Option (206 - 208, 205 - 207)
First Deck
- Suites
- Suites with Interconnecting Option (106 - 108, 105 -107)
- Spa
Gratuities
We are often asked what gratuity is appropriate for guides and crew. The quality of service should determine the amount of any tip.
From experience, we recommend an amount in the range of US$70 - US$95 per day for the crew.
Per passenger, the total tip would therefore be somewhere between US$210 - US$285 for the 3-night cruise, US$280 - US$380 for the 4-night cruise, and US$490 - US$665 for the 7-night cruise.
For private charters, the recommended tip ranges from 7% - 10% of the total amount paid.
Please bear in mind that this is merely a suggestion, since we believe that gratuities are a very personal matter.
Tips can be paid by credit card or cash using the envelopes provided or the designated boxes. This will be explained in greater detail by your cruise director on board.
Entertainment
The place to unwind and socialize at spaces such as the games room, indoor & outdoor lounge, plunge pool, and movie screening room.
Lobby Lounge
Unwind in the comfort of Aqua Nera's lobby lounge where the ambiance echoes the depths of the rainforest. Experience rich, dark tones and intricate details that bring the essence of the Amazon's enigmatic waters indoors.
Indoor Lounge & Bar
With an inviting ambience tastefully blending modern and classic elements, the Aqua Nera’s indoor lounge is the focal point of the top deck for social activities. Luxurious lounge sofas let guests relax in air-conditioned comfort while sipping on the drink of choice from the bar.
Sun Deck
Ascend to Aqua Nera's sun deck, a serene sanctuary atop the river cruise vessel. Bask in the warmth of the sun, unwind with a glass of wine, and savor panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes as you cruise along in unparalleled luxury.
Billard Room
Immerse in the finest literature about the region or play a game of pool on our exquisite glass and wood table.
Screening Room
Enhance any Amazon river cruise journey with our selection of classic films about this exotic region. Our cruise director will be happy to organize a private screening for up to ten guests here or on the Observation Deck. The screening room also hosts private lectures, videos, and documentaries to learn about the fascinating cultures along the Amazon River.
Outdoor Lounge
Admire expansive views of the Amazon with a cocktail or two at the outdoor lounge areas, which are located at both the bow and the stern of the cruise ship and outfitted with comfortable loungers. Plenty of shade is offered at the bow lounge area, thanks to Aqua Nera’s soaring sun canopy that also provides shelter to the ship’s river-facing plunge pool.
Boutique
Find the perfect memento for your Peruvian Amazon journey at our onboard boutique.
Social Area
More information coming soon.
Enrichment
Embark on an extraordinary voyage to the ‘lungs of the planet’, home to one in every 10 species of flora and fauna.
No explorer’s bucket list is complete without a trip to the world’s largest rainforest. From its wealth of biodiversity to its sheer size, the Amazon Rainforest is immense on all accounts. Even today, researchers continue to find new species of flora and fauna across this mighty expanse, and there are thousands of such discoveries still to be made. Spanning nine countries in South America, the Amazon Rainforest is best explored via a river expedition in Peru. This is the birthplace of the Amazon River, where the Ucayali and Marañon tributaries converge. Considered the region’s most pristine expanse, the river banks are always in view when sailing these narrow channels, allowing incredible opportunities to spot wildlife in the jungle canopies.
Aqua Expeditions operates two vessels in the Peruvian Amazon: the 20-suite Aqua Nera, a state-of-the-art river ship which draws inspiration from the region’s black water lagoons, and the 16-suite Aria Amazon, a classic explorer custom-built for comfort and luxury. Both ships offer a range of itineraries, with options for individual travelers as well as group and charter bookings. Enjoy twice-daily excursions led by expert guides to spot rare and endemic wildlife including pink dolphins, spider monkeys, caiman, sloths, and anacondas. While on board, relax in a luxurious suite or enjoy social spaces such as the spa, plunge pool, jacuzzi, gym, or movie room.
Expert-led Excursions
Our expert-led active excursions include kayaking and swimming in the Amazon's warm, pristine waters while embraced by the lush tropical rainforest -- a magical experience.
Skiffs
Four auxiliary aluminum launch boats equipped with two four-stroke low emission engines; constant radio communication with the main vessel. Each boat has a capacity of 10 passengers.
Aqua Expeditions' customized aluminium motorized speedboats take up to ten passengers each on two to three daily excursions deep into Amazonia's snaking tributaries, in search of armoured catfish, red bellied piranhas, and the beady-eyed heads of spectacled caimans in the enigmatic black waters.
Biking
Each Aqua Expeditions bicycle excursion is personally curated and led by expert English-speaking guides in ease and comfort. Daily activities are highly customized according to each guest’s fitness and taste for adventure, as well as adapted to individual interests and pace. Bike tours are a great way to get around at each port of call to explore the lay of the land. Maintaining a maximum of 10 guests per excursion allows for strong interaction with our passionate local guides, providing a highly educational and engaging touring experience.
It may not be the biking vacation hardcore cyclists may expect, but guests should be prepared for a certain element of action involved. Because we travel into remote destinations, far removed from crowded areas and tourist attractions, we can dive deeper into places which focus on nature, wildlife and even lesser-known or forgotten cultures.
Active Excursions
Changing seasons play a role in determining the excursions which can be offered as part of our Amazon cruise itineraries. In the low water season, many of the trails and jungle paths that are usually submerged become easily accessible, allowing opportunities to experience the Amazon rainforest on foot. On the other hand, the high-water season allows skiffs to access hidden creeks and lakes which are out of reach when the water levels are low.
Our itineraries take advantage of the conditions in each season to curate the best Amazon cruise experiences. When cruising the Amazon during low-water, guests will see exposed mud banks which tend to attract large numbers of colorful macaws. During high-water, we can head out for a swim in the mystical black water lagoons which are dotted across the region. There are unique and novel experiences to be had no matter when you decide to visit the Peruvian Amazon.
Kayaking and Canoeing
The calm black water lagoons and tributaries of the Amazon River are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming excursions. Lakes such as Lake Clavero offer a remote location for a refreshing swim accompanied by magnificent natural landscapes in the backdrop. Experience the local way of fishing and transportation by jumping into dugout canoes carved by hand from Amazonian trees or grab your paddles and kayak as villagers in their traditional canoes pass you by.
Visits to Indigenous Communities
Beyond nature and the wildlife, the Amazon also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and heritage. Introduce yourself to a brand new way of life and find out all there is to know about jungle living. This provides an eye-opening insight into how people can live in harmony with the rainforest, depending only on their surroundings for sustenance.
Our expert naturalist guides are natives from the region, who’ll share first-hand accounts of life in the Amazon during your expedition. There’ll also be an opportunity to embark on a bike ride and explore the riverside community of Nauta, one of the main hubs of the Amazon.
Although the truly remote indigenous tribes are protected and inaccessible to visitors, there are stilted villages and riverside settlements to visit where you’ll get a glimpse of the Amazonian way of life, and the native customs and traditions.
Guided Jungle Walks
Walk deep into the rich Amazonian rainforest for a rendezvous with exotic wildlife. The forest is home to three-toed sloths, macaws, hoatzins, capuchin monkeys and anacondas, and that’s just the beginning. Aqua’s expert guides are well-versed in spotting animals through the camouflage and helping you get a close-up look at the variety of species which inhabit the region.
As you make your way over to the rainforest on a tender ride, you might find yourself accompanied by the elusive pink river dolphins which can be found in these waters. There are also caiman which rest along the riverbanks and are best spotted once it’s dark outside. You’ll have the opportunity to go looking for these incredible predators on a night excursion aboard Aqua Nera.
Throughout the expedition, you’ll be exploring the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, which is nicknamed the ‘Jungle of Mirrors’ thanks to the glassy reflections in its peaceful waters. Well-protected and conserved, this is the ideal place to explore the region’s abundant biodiversity.
Wildlife Excursions
Along the meandering tributaries of the Amazon, encounter wildlife which can’t be found anywhere else on the planet.
Best time for wildlife spotting
Wildlife excursions often differ depending on the time of the year. During the high water season, river ships sail closer to the canopies, making it easier to spot birds and other species which live in the trees. On the other hand, the low water season allows better access to jungle trails, making it possible to discover wildlife in the undergrowth.
Low-water months are also an ideal time for fishing as aquatic populations are confined to a few key areas. It’s far easier to land a piranha during this time. For birdwatchers, dozens of species of migratory birds are in flight during this time as well.
In contrast, the high-water season concentrates the population of land animals and amphibians, making it easier to spot turtles and caimans.
All things considered, most species can be seen throughout the year – the only difference is in the manner they’re seen, from the ground of the lush forest or aboard a skiff.
Amazonian Manatee
One of only three manatee species in the world, the mystifying Amazonian Manatee was once found throughout the Amazon River Basin. However, due to steady hunting activities for its meat and oil, habitat loss, and accidents with ships, manatee sightings have become sparse. Lucky travelers can spot this large freshwater dweller in the water ranging from the mouth of the Amazon River to the upper reaches of the tributaries of Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana and Peru. While sailing with us, our expert wildlife guides aboard Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon will be there to keep an eye out for these curious creatures.
Red-bellied Piranha
Piranhas are one of the most notorious animals in the Amazon basin. They’ve inhabited the region for millions of years, and evolved into over twenty different species. Red-bellied piranhas are, perhaps, the best known of the lot. After all, they’ve starred in plenty of horror blockbusters over the years.
In reality, piranhas aren’t quite as dangerous as Hollywood makes them out to be. They rarely attack without being prompted first. Although they can smell a drop of blood in 200 liters of water, doing so doesn’t really send them into a killing frenzy.
Aboard the Aqua Nera, guests will have no shortage of exciting moments while cruising along the Amazon. There’ll be an opportunity to go piranha fishing, and if time permits, we might even get to see local fishermen making their daily catch. Don’t worry, we always put safety first for you!
Squirrel Monkey
An Amazonian native, the black-capped squirrel monkey can be found in Bolivia, western Brazil, and Eastern Peru. It can be differentiated from other kinds of squirrel monkeys by the namesake black fur on its head, which looks like a cap.
Like most primates, black-capped squirrel monkeys tend to live in large troops composed of as many as 75 monkeys. They search for food together, feeding on a range of fruits, seeds, and insects. Although they prefer a plant-based diet, the monkeys can end up relying entirely on animal prey during the dry season.
Black-capped squirrel monkeys have tails which are longer than their head and body combined. Despite this, their tails aren’t prehensile, meaning they can’t use them to swing from tree to tree. They do help the monkeys maintain a better balance though. This is especially useful as they’re known to live among the canopies.
Three-toed Sloth
An amazing Amazonian resident to see in the wild, the three-toed brown-throated sloth lives an unhurried life. The creature spends 15 to 18 hours a day sleeping in the trees, which may be during the day or night.
Taking things really slowly, the sloth’s multi-chambered stomach and digestive systems require two weeks to digest one meal. The sloth, however, goes through the hassle of climbing down to the forest floor every eight days to defecate — a habit that scientists haven’t been able to explain.
In the sloth dating game, it’s the female who makes the first moves, says George. When in the jungle, keep your ears peeled for their screams, which sound extremely human-like!
Black Caiman
It’s only fitting for the largest member of the alligator family to live in the world’s largest river basin. Black caimans can grow to be as long as six meters in length and weigh up to 600 kilograms. Can you imagine floating side-by-side with one of these behemoths while aboard one of Aqua’s private skiffs? Now, that’d be a story worth taking back home.
On the fifth day of our seven-night Amazon tour, guests get to take an evening ride along the black waters of the Pacaya River. Be sure to look around carefully because the caimans’ eyes are the only part of them which aren’t camouflaged. When our Aqua naturalist guides spot a juvenile caiman, they might even gently lift it from the river to let the guests have a better look. If it’s a photo-op you’re after, there will never be a better chance.
Black caimans used to be endangered back in the 1970s due to excessive poaching. Today, conservation efforts have helped their population recover and they’re steadily moving towards the safe zone. The return of black caimans has also helped bring the piranha and capybara population under control. Their numbers had grown unnaturally high, creating an imbalance in the ecosystem.
Giant Anaconda
Found in the Peruvian Amazon, Green Anacondas are the largest species of snake in the world. They can grow up to thirty feet long, which for reference, is longer than a school bus. Anacondas commonly reside on the river floor, spending most of their time submerged in the water. They camouflage within the vegetation and despite their size, can often be tough to spot. Our expert guides aboard Aqua Nera and Aria Amazon are well-versed in common anaconda hiding spots, and while seeing them isn't a guarantee, this is the perfect expedition for this rare wildlife encounter.
Dining
Experience rainforest-to-table dining
On board Aqua Nera, expect sumptuous and refined Peruvian cuisine orchestrated with native Amazonian ingredients. Renowned chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino presents a remarkable menu transforming seasonal produce from the rainforest into world-class dishes.
Since 2001, chef Schiaffino has been studying the food and cooking traditions of Amazonia, working beyond the kitchen with anthropologists and environmental scientists. Calling the rainforest his ‘natural habitat’, chef Schiaffino has cultivated a knack for skillfully incorporating sustainable produce and ingredients from the Peruvian Amazon into his cuisine. In fact, 70% of all ingredients used in chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino’s dishes on board 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.
A born and bred Peruvian, chef Schiaffino is known for being one of the first culinarians in his country to put local cuisine on the international map. Renowned for his commitment to excellence, he has earned global recognition from The Diners Club World’s 50 Best Restaurants Academy for his innovative Amazonia-influenced cuisine at MALABAR and ámaz in Lima.
Dining Area
Pair the Amazon’s stunning scenery with chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino’s show-stopping cuisine at the stylish dining area on Aqua Nera’s second deck. Choose to have a romantic dinner, or dine family-style as we deliver a five-star dining experience from start to finish.
Outdoor Dining
The outdoor dining area can be found on the Sun Deck.
Breakfast on Skiff
Experience early morning breakfast on the water with full service and locally sourced ingredients.
Other Cruise Information
ClassCruise Type: river
Class:
Ship Size: mini
Style: luxury
Operator Reference: aqua-expeditions
Nursery: none
Child Facilities: none
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