Delfin I

Location

Deep in the Peruvian Amazon, on three or four night exploratory cruises, you’ll be introduced to one of the world’s largest flooded forests, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Thanks to zealous protection, it’s among the most intact swathes of jungle in Amazonia. And, while it can only be explored by boat in the rainy season, it opens up for atmospheric hikes in the rest of the year as flora and fauna regenerates in spectacular fashion. As you navigate the Marañón River, you’ll stop off to kayak through calm creeks, fish for piranhas at sunset and interact with the native peoples as you visit local communities.

Accommodation

Featuring just four suites, this is floating boutique intimacy at its best. Understated interiors enjoy a flawless contemporary design, manifested in polished hardwood floors, plush living areas and oversized beds resplendent in fine Peruvian cotton. In all, wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows offer 180° views of the Amazon’s sublime scenery; they even open on to private decks that reach up to 360 square feet of space. The Deluxe Master Suites are a particular highlight, featuring water plunge pools, making Delfin I the first and only river vessel with this luxury. They’re ideal for cooling off in with a cocktail after a jungle trek.

Dining

Peruvian cuisine has long reflected the country’s cultural diversity with fusion flavours drawn from around the world. And, in the Delfin I’s Dining Room, creole dishes showcase the Amazon’s natural bounty using only locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Given that the kitchen never caters for more than eight guests, you can expect unparalleled service and requests happily met. Just be sure to let any dietary requirements be known in advance due to ship’s remote routes. For a taster, you can expect immaculately presented river fish paired with fine South American vintages.

Facilities

With between two and three optional daily excursions you can be as busy or as relaxed as you’d like. Perhaps wake early for a birdwatching trip before breakfast or head out in a skiff to skirt the riverbanks in search of hidden wildlife; it’s even possible to swim near the Amazon’s famed pink dolphins. And, between night safaris, paddle boarding, visits to manatee centres and canopy walks, you’re never short of activities to keep you occupied. On the ship itself, spend some time in the open-air lounge cum observation deck where you’ll be able to listen to wildlife presentations, make use of the library and bar or simply relax under the stars.