We encourage all our guests on our luxury cruises down Peru’s Amazon (and soon on the Mekong River) to send us their comments and travel reviews about their experience with Aqua Expeditions. Here are a few of our recent guests describing their Amazon River journeys in their own words…
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PRESS RELEASE
AQUA EXPEDITIONS EXPANDS INTO INDOCHINA
WITH 20-SUITE LUXURY BOAT ON THE MEKONG RIVER
Lima, Peru: Following the success of river cruises in the Peruvian Amazon, Aqua Expeditions is launching its third luxury vessel in 2014: on the Mekong River in Cambodia and Vietnam, it was announced today by Aqua Expeditions CEO Francesco Galli Zugaro.
The Aqua Mekong will be the first boat of its class on the river. Keeping in style with the MV Aria and MV Aqua, the MV Aqua Mekong will be small enough to be intimate, and large enough to be spacious and luxurious, paying every attention to detail from the design and decor to the cuisine and service. Aqua Mekong will have 20 suites, decorated in a lush contemporary Asian style, using local materials and fabrics, each with floor-to-ceiling picture windows enabling travelers to relax in bed and watch Asia float past. There will also be a generous-sized spa and fitness center, dining room, library, screening room, and an observation deck with a pool and a lounge bar.
Construction will take place in Vietnam where the boat has been designed by Noor, renowned local architects based in Saigon. Drawing inspiration from local cultures and traditions, the designers David Hodkinson and Luc Lejeune have created an elegant floating boutique hotel that will be unique to the destination.
Itineraries will run from Siem Riep down river to My Tho, near Saigon, stopping in Phnom Penh along the way, and vice versa. Modeling the water safari experience that the Peruvian Aqua boats have perfected, the experience will include daily river and shore excursions off the boat in skiffs.
"We are thrilled to be venturing into another exotic frontier," said Galli Zugaro, "and offering the experienced traveler an authentic and world-class way of exploring the Mekong."
The Aqua Mekong is scheduled to begin operation in early 2014.
Mr. and Mrs. Lui, March 2013
There were many memorable moments from the three days we spent on the Aria. We were particularly taken by our ability to connect with not just the land but also the people from the region, from the time we spend with the energetic and knowledgeable guides (all of whom were born and bred there) as well as with the children and teachers in the local village with whom we spent some time on our last day. Thank you for showing us the richness of Amazon with all the comfort that the Aria offered.
Mrs. and Mr. Manly, March 2013
My husband and I took this cruise last week. EVERY SINGLE aspect of our interaction with the folks related to the Aqua vessel was beyond our expectations. The crew is professional and masterful! We loved the experience and would highly recommend this cruise to all even remotely interested!!
Mr. Vega, February 2013
The Aqua Expedition of the Peruvian Amazon gave us a very good taste of the jungle. The Pacaya-Samiria reserve is spectacular providing us with a lifetime experience. The vessel, staff, food and expeditions were all first class. Whoever takes this cruise will never forget it!!!
Mr. and Mrs. Begbie, February 2013
Thank you for your email. I am a bit embarrassed you have our feedback form as it was done in such a rush. But we would like to say that we thought Aqua expedition was the best trip of our lives.
We felt it was a privilege to be able to see so much of the Birthplace of the Amazon, so rich in fauna and flora, in such hospitable comfort. We never normally do a cruise, it is not our thing. But we absolutely loved the Aqua expedition, and we loved the mother ship. We liked that she was small and intimate. And we liked the care that had been taken with everything,
It was fabulous, all the staff was wonderful and responsive and anticipated all out needs. Neythan was a superb guide and so obviously knew the Amazon that he was an inspiration.
Gabriella rang a very happy ship and it showed across all the different components, from the restaurant, to the bar, to the rooms to the expeditions.Thank you for the care everyone at Aqua expeditions took, you gave us an experience of a lifetime.
Mr. and Mrs. Nakagawa, February 2013
It was one of the best journey we had ever. We would like to come back again. I made a digital album. Please access to the site below:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/keikoyn/
Thank you for all things which you have done for us during the cruise. We are looking forward to seeing you again very near future.
Mr. Shelton, January 2013
A rare opportunity to visit and intimately experience a remote and unique part of the world. This boutique tour operator provided cruise guides and naturalists, mostly local, who were very friendly and
knowledgeable and went out of their way to ensure their guests were well looked after. The fauna and flora of the upper reaches of the Amazon River are always photogenic, but with eagle-eyed guides knowing the best vantage points the experience was truly amazing. Special mention and thanks to
Danial, Julio and Ricky (and a brave cruise director who even tried to teach me to dance). Altogether an unforgettable experience.
Mr. and Mrs. Kopecky, January 2013
There are no words to adequately describe our adventure. It was amazing. I will send photos (double rainbow at Macchu Picchu) which may begin to tell you how much fun and excitement we had. We all climbed Waynapicchu and made it down too! The guide was amazing from OE. Just a hint..Ben snatched a speckled caiman from the rivers of the Amazon!!!He was supervised, of course, by a guide and it was a small one, only a couple feet long. How thrilling. Aqua was amazing..loved it.
Mr. and Mrs. McFadzen, November 2012
The cruise was fantastic we had a wonderful time. The staff were very attentive and made our time on in the rainforest amazing. The room was very comfortable and everyone was very friendly. The presentation of the food was also great. It was a great experince.
Mr. and Mrs. Silverman, October 2012
Dear Mr. Zugaro,
My wife and I recently took a four day cruise on the Amazon aboard the Aria. The staff aboard the ship was incredibly accommodating and friendly - particularly the director of the cruise, Gabriela Rodriguez, who made the trip so enjoyable by her outgoing personality and participation, as well as her efforts in getting all of the passengers to know one another. Many thanks to Ms. Rodriguez and the rest of the staff aboard the Aria for helping us to create a wonderful experience that my wife and I will remember for years to come.
Mrs. and Mr. Thackray, September 2012
Dear Milly,
What an amazing experience we had recently on the “Aria”. We absolutely loved it and without exception it was the highlight of our Peru holiday.
The “Aria” is such a brilliant boat on the Amazon with every convenience including the great bed, spacious bathroom and the picture windows for watching life on the Amazon……we haven’t stopped raving about our trip, since we left Iquitos! All the staff were so gracious and accommodating and full of enthusiasm and it was obvious they loved their jobs and their role in helping the ecology of the area. We had 2 fantastic naturalist guides, Julio and George who managed to find all sorts of wildlife and how they did, we’ll still never know. They are great ambassadors for Aqua Expeditions and the area itself and both are good-humoured, intelligent and full of information. My husband, Greg and I loved all the daily excursions and to meet the local people, see the smiling children and enjoy the time with them was very special. All the shipboard staff were fantastic too in the bar, restaurant and throughout the ship. Smiling, professional and couldn’t do enough for everyone on board. Food was excellent and Greg, being vegetarian who eats fish/seafood was really well accommodated as was another guest who was strictly vegetarian. We had such a lovely group of people and everyone of them was as enthusiastic as Greg and I, about their 4 nights onboard. All of us commented that we would travel back to Peru, just to take another Aqua Expedition.
The entire time, from when we were picked up at Iquitos Airport until we left Iquitos was superb and we were still learning enroute to the airport at the manatee rescue centre. Really fabulous experience and product. Every trip to Peru should revolve around Aqua Expeditions as the highlight.
Thank you to Marylin for all her help in organizing and thank you to Francesco and to all at Aqua Expeditions for making this trip possible. This was the experience of a lifetime.
Best
Mr. and Mrs. Wilhelm, July 2012
Dear Aqua Crew,
Was wonderful every minute that we spent in the cruise. We'll never forget all of you. There are no words to describe our experience. We've just want to tell all of you thank you very much for everything. Right know we are listening the CD and looking our thousand of photos..... THANK YOU
Mrs. Gerdes, June 2012
Sinthia:
We had a fantastic trip!!!!!!!!! It exceeded our expectations. You should be very proud of Aqua Expeditions/Aria! From the moment we were met at the airport to the moment we were dropped off a week later, everything was amazing! The boat, the accomodations, the service, the food, the EXPERIENCE! Certainly one that we'll highly recommentd. Thanks
Mrs. and Mr. Silver, May 2012
Yes, the Amazon is fascinating and for people who appreciate a more personal trip, Aqua Expeditions are just the right size and duration. Our four day, three night cruise during High Water season was a unique experiece on so many levels. You met our expectations for food, caring staff, room design and guides. What we hadn't expected but fortunately did experience, were the variety and friendliness of the other guests, which now feel more like friends than just fellow travelers. Thank you for attracting
such great personalities and helping to create wonderful experiences. There is a wealth of vegatation waiting to be explored.
Mr. Thomas, April 2012
The experience was absolutely AMAZING from beginning to end. The Amazon and villages speak for themselves. The staff of the ARIA was SO nice and accomdating. The service was excellent and the menus even better! our guides George, Ricardo, Roland and Julio was so very knowledgeable, not to mention cute and adorable. So was the staff in the restaurant, Robinson, Tony and Ericson........they also sing and dance, who knew?? in one word...EXCELLENT !!
Mrs. and Mr. Smith, March 2012
Hi Victoria,
I wanted to thank you for your help in planning a wonderful trip. My husband and I really enjoyed every part of our time in Peru and your suggestion of taking the Aria cruise at the end of our tour worked well for us.
We had a wonderful time in Peru. The itinerary planned, the guides and drivers were all 5 star.
The staff of the Aria are superb. The naturalists are so enthusiastic about sharing the Amazon experience with visitors. Ricardo, Julio, Roland, and Jorge never tired of helping us sight wildlife, get good photographs, and learn about the culture and environment of the Amazon. Their love of nature, knowledge of the plant and animal life, respect for the environment, and "people skills" are what we believe made the trip. Also, the rest of the Aria crew in a few short days came to know our personal preferences for food and beverages. On the last day Roberto made guacamole specially for my husband and if he had been able I know he would have provided my husband with barbecued pork for every meal!
Mr. and Mrs. Goldin (Ranked by Tripadvisor as a “professional”), March 2012
“I and my wife – and 16 other Danish travellers – had the pleasure recently, in February/March 2012, to spend 4 nights/5 days on the boat ARIA, belonging to Aqua Expeditions, travelling the Amazon from Nauta to Iquitos.
I have read all the reviews about ARIA, including the negative ones. But let me put it as simple as it gets: There is NOTHING negative to be said about ARIA and the trip on the Amazon at the moment. There might have been problems in the past but they have been solved 100%!
In short: If you want to see the Amazon, from a safe and luxurious place, with cabins and food/drinks that exceed your highest expectations, this is THE boat! You get a fantastic experience from the start to the end. In a complete safe environment (a policeman is accompanying the boat all the time) and with cabin facilities that belongs to a 6 star hotel…
Every day you will be going on fantastic excursions on the river/in the rain forest. Beautiful sights, exciting views, great experiences etc. etc.
I can only recommend this boat and the Aqua company at the most.
Don’t even think of alternatives if you want to see the Amazon and surroundings from a base of luxury!”
Mrs. Moskow, March 2012
We recently returned from a 4 night cruise and we are still feeling the effects of the magic we experienced on your ship. From the moment we arrived at the dock to board the Aria to the sad ending of 4 perfect days and nights, we were treated to the most amazing adventure.
Visiting the mighty Amazon in all its wonder and glory is so very special.
To be able to explore all it has to offer with your very knowledgeable naturalists was truly a gift. All of the employee's were so passionate about everything they did. It was obvious they took pride in their work, and their smiles and sincerity was contagious. The food, was superb and being able to taste the fresh juices, fish and vegetables from the Amazon was perfect.
Thank you for the adventure of a lifetime. Words cannot describe the feelings everyone on the boat felt, it truly was magic!
Mr. and Mrs. Rifkin, February 2012
Hi Victoria--My husband, Erik, and I had a fabulous week with you aboard Aqua at the end of February, 2012. Everyone was exemplary on this trip--from the guides to the chefs to the cabin personnel. We highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to experience the Amazon in a truly unique way.
Mr. Swink, February 2012
Dear Mr. Zugaro:
My wife, Margaret, and I were on your Aqua cruise February 4 to 11. Over the years we have taken 15 cruises, some expeditions in nature, as the Aqua cruise and have been on safaris and other adventures around the world. This Aqua adventure and cruise was superbly lead and executed by Anita Rodriquez. In particular her leadership of the Aqua team was outstanding. It became very apparent that Anita has earned both the respect and loyalty of the team and has instilled a high degree of team spirit. Furthermore, Anita has an engaging personality that gives her a wonderful way with the ship’s guests. She and the entire Aqua team exhibits a high degree of pride in your company that was evident throughout the cruise. Several crew members in addition to Anita mentioned how much they enjoyed working for your organization.
The person responsible for hiring Anita is to be commended. It is evident from the guides, table staff, boat personnel and other crew that Aqua has a superb hiring program.
I like to hear when my people do well and I felt you would like to know you have a great team on Aqua and a wonderful representative in Anita. I will not hesitate to recommend your company to others. Aqua proved to be one of the best trips in our past 25 years of travel.
Mr. and Mrs. Marsden, December 2011.
A unique experience in a unique place. Guides - Juan, Julio and
Ricardo know and love their home. They are true professionals, enthusiastic
and great fun. The support staff on the MV Aria delivered 5-star service in
5-star surroundings. This is an exceptional cruise with an exceptional
company. Most importantly, we were shown the Amazon in a way that made us
appreciate its critical importance in the Earth's biosphere. Bravo, Aqua
Expeditions - this is the future of tourism: an experience that teaches and
changes the traveller's world view.
Mr. Purvis, December 2011.
I've been telling people that the Aria cruise was the best trip I have ever done in many years of travel.
Everything went exactly to plan and I am deeply impressed by the whole operation. I went expecting sensational food, and that's what I got, but if I'm honest the wildlife stole the show. It's a winning combination, sheer genius.
Mr. Winik , August 2011.
We have a great 4-day trip on the Aria in July. Our guides Juan and Victor were excellent, as was the trip director Paula and the entire staffs. Visiting three villages and giving away school supplies to the kids was an added bonus, which I highly commend to everyone.
Mrs. Hartman , August 2011.
The entire experience was amazing and lived up to our every dream. Roland, Julio and Daniel made us feel like we were family. I had tears in my eyes when we said goodbye. Doing the 7 day trip was perfect.
Having this much time on Aqua gives you time to really relax and enjoy every aspect of the trip. We saw so much and met some wonderful people.
Mr. and Mrs.Weinman, July 2011.
My wife and I just completed our trip down the Amazon on the Aqua.In addition to kudos for your fine boat and on board staff as well as extraordinary cuisine, I am writing this message to congratulate you on your employ of our guides.We do not usually write letters after our trips to tour operators, but, your tour and these extra special individuals deserve our extra effort because of their incredible efforts to make our voyage on the Aqua a forever memorable experience. We will be back and we hope they are still on board. Our thanks and good wishes for more successful voyages. Relajese y disfrute de la salud, buena suerte y felicidad.
Mrs. Gaille, June 2011.
I would like to let yall know that my trip on the Aria was the most magical thing i have ever done! Your customer service was stellar, and i felt right at home :) I accidentally left a little crystal angel, please don't worry about sending it back. Maybe a child in one of the villages would like it? Thanks so much forgoing above and beyond in every way :)
Mr. and Mrs. Libit, May 2011.
We just completed the 7 day cruise on the M/V Aqua. What an incredible experience! The room, the food, the crew, and the guides were all exceptional. Our guides (Daniel, Roland, Julio, and Ricardo) treated us like longtime friends and were incredibly knowledgeable. In addition to the dozens of species of amazing birds we saw, the caiman catching, piranha fishing, and anaconda catching were exciting. We took hundreds of photos that will become priceless memories. The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is a treasure.
Mrs. Hayes , April 2011.
The Aqua is a once in a life time adventure. You should extremely proud of your staff. I could not change a thing about my Aqua experience. The service was impecable! The guides are some of the best I have ever encountered. We have been all over the world birding and Daniel rates right up at the top with some of our other guides. Keep up the good work and thank you!
Ms. Collins, Young Travel & Cruises,March 2011.
I am a agent in Greenville, South Carolina. My husband and I along with two other couples have just returned from a 10-day trip to Peru. We spent three nights on the Aqua at the beginning of our trip, and I wanted to let you and the rest of the staff at Aqua Expeditions know how impressed we all were with your boat, your guides, and the entire staff. As an agent, I have traveled with a number of very fine tour companies and can most assuredly say that THIS was one of the best experiences that I have ever had. Your cruise director, Wendy, was most gracious. Your guides, Ricky, Victor, and Roland, were extremely knowledgeable and personable. The whole dining experience was an education unto itself (thanks to Ricardo and the wait staff), and the accommodations were beautiful and immaculate.
Thank you for helping make such wonderful memories for me and for my fellow travelers.
Ms. Collins, Young Travel & Cruises, March 2011.
My wife and I had a great experience on your Aqua Expeditions in January this year, you are to be commended on a fantastic concept put into reality. Whilst we anticipated and were impressed with the extraordinary wildlife we did not expect to be overwhelmed at the great things your team are doing for the people and environment of the Amazon. Daniel and his team were very impressive from the guides to the boat crew it was truly an enjoyable but also enlightening experience. The sincere dedication to the local people by your team and the commitment of resources and support from your company is commendable.
Mr. and Mrs. Mirabito, January 2011.
My husband and I, and my brother, and sister in law have just completed the 7 night expedition on the Aqua 8/1/11 and want to comment that it is the best tour we have ever had. The service and staff were exceptional. The food, out of this world, and the guides will be our friends for life. they really know their selva. Congratulations to all who work for and with Aqua to make this a really unsual and first class experience. It is a our pleasure to be able to say that we did not have a single complaint and the beauty of the Amazon was enhanced by the service and expertice of all your staff. Muchos saludos and again our congratulations.
Mr. and Mrs. Waller, January 2011.
Excellent operation! We have been on over 30 cruises - large and very small. This is the overall best crew we have ever had!
Mr. Patton, January 2011.
Staff is very personable and excellent, they are the asset of the boat. Their attitude and enthusiasm is contagious! They make the trip!
Mr. Zantop, January 2011.
The organization was perfect and all the staff member are very friendly and it's a good atmosphere on board.
Mr. and Mrs. Snell, January 2011.
The whole experience was superb. Friendliness and helpfulness and knowledge of staff plus excellent facilities and food.
Mr. and Mrs. Snell, January 2011.
All guides were very passionate about their work, curious and shared their wisdom and knowledge. Could not fault. Professional and completely engaged and enthusiastic. Thank you.
Mr. Healy, December 2010.
Robinson and Aquiles were both fantastic, the food from Antonio and his colleagues was superb, as my son said "that was the best meal I have ever had, ever!!".
Mr. Jappy, December 2010.
Thank you all so much for making such a memorable experience. I really enjoyed it! Best os luck to the band , I hope you go far! May the New Year bring lots of wonderful things for all of you. Thank you again.
Ms. Eynarsson, December 2010.
It was great alternating naturalists as each brings something different to the experience. They were all very knowledgeable and extremely helpful and kind. We enjoyed all of the outings from going on skiffs to meeting the locals to walking in the forest.
Mr. and Mrs. Hunter, December 2010.
The guides were each enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Great staff! Wonderful opportunity to see unique part of the world! New adventure with well qualified guides.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith, November 2010.
Ricardo's enthusiasm was awesome and he was great in the village with the children. We enjoyed boat excursions, visiting the village, seeing the fabulous flora and fauna of the Amazon, the rooms, the food, the education, the entertainment! Keep up the great service and work!
Mr. and Mrs. Altenburg, November 2010.
To the "Aqua", the best ship on the Amazon, thank you for the excursion of a lifetime. The wildlife is spectacular and the staff on the Aqua became part of our family!
Jack Hanna, November 2010.
Ken and I were so happy with our cruise on your lovely ship the Aqua. Our accommodations were above expectations. The food was great although the chicken was a little over done sometimes. The desserts “OH MY GOSH” we couldn’t resist. Our guides Daniel, Juan and Victor were wonderful. The knowledge that each had for the rain forest was wonderful you knew that they all loved the area and had great fondness for each adventure. And adventures we had!! The villages that we visited were quite interesting especially the first and second one. The first one was the birth village of Juan what a delight to see his home and the village friends. The second was so much fun to see the children in school and the delight they had for the gifts we brought to them. Thank you again for all your help.
Mr. and Mrs. Barrow, November 2010.
Staff all excellent, very friendly, approachable and fantastic English. Everything was fantastic, Aquiles and Denis were very attentive. Cabin steward also. Could not fault one thing!
G. Malkovich, October 2011.
All staff were happy to do their absolute best to ensure that my every need was met. Keep up the level of service that is currently being displayed.
J. Mackenzie, October 2010.
I truly enjoyed how the smallness of the ship created an intimacy among the passengers and the crew.
Mr. and Mrs. Rossman, October 2010.
The trip was fantastic from start to finish. I’m sure Francesco already knows that his crew and guides are outstanding, but I just can’t emphasize enough that kind of wonderful attitude/energy, service and competence just doesn’t exist in the States. I hope to come back again.
A. E. Ciganer, October 2010.
The entire experience was over the top. We are glad we chose the 7 night. Your entire staff is amazing. We loved the Aqua band, wow!! You can't get better than "best". You are the Best!
Mr. and Mrs. Rosenbaum, September 2010.
Everyone was so helpful and nice. Winston was especially helpful to me in walking as I have knee problems. He was always there. I truly enjoyed the excellence of all staff, the skiff rides and experiencing the Amazon - its waterways, rainforest, villagers. I especially loved to visit the school and children, being an educator.
Mr. Schwartz, September 2010.
Great trip - wonderful staff, food and overall experience. Talent night by crew at end of cruise was a special treat and unexpected/enjoyable.
L. Lockner, September 2010.
Skiff drivers are amazing. Very reassuring to have a medic on board and so caring. There was not anything we didn't enjoy and were thrilled with. Would liked to have stayed longer.
Mr. and Mrs. Narung, September 2010.
We sailed on the Aqua In September on the 4 day itinerary and loved every minute of it. My personal highlights were the enthusiasm, knowledge and quality of the guides. They added so much to the experience. Very nice large room, great picture windows and excellent staff and food rounded off the experience. On a scale of 1 to 10- we gave it an 11 !
W. Schaefer, Travel Store, September 2010.
I certainly enjoyed my 4 night stay on the M/V Aqua. It was my pleasure and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience not only of your fabulous vessel but the smiling , ever caring staff who made the journey even more memorable. The Amazon is a unique wilderness and needs to remain unspoilt. I noticed how you have engaged with local people and the environment to keep it this way. Can I ask you to send on my special thanks to all your staff for making my visit very special. In forty years of being in the travel industry this was one of my all time favourite trips. Once again my sincere thanks to you all.
K. Garrity, Carlton Travel, August 2010.
I really enjoyed the soccer match and getting to interact and play with the village children. I also enjoyed fishing and catching caimans. I really appreciate everything you have done, this has been a wonderful trip and I'm going to miss you all very much. Hope to be back, thanks!
K. Ziegler, August 2010.
Robinson is outstanding, always corteous and patient, he anticipates all our needs and wishes. The Aqua water bottles are an excellent idea to reduce number of pastic bottles.
J. Sloane, August 2010.
No sabes qué bien lo pasamos en el Aqua. Todo fue de maravilla, el barco es una preciosidad y todos los chavos son encantadores, la comida excelente. De verdad estuvo precioso el viaje y todo funciona perfectamente bien. Los felicito. Nos encantó y sobre todo el convivio con la tripulación estuvo maravilloso, de verdad.
P. Money, July 2010.
I appreciate your help over the last few months as we were organizing our trip on Aqua. We greatly enjoyed our trip - your staff is excellent and the guides (Daniel, Ricardo & Victor) were top-notch. Regards.
L. Crosby, July 2010.
Alex loved the excursions and piranha fishing. Gus enjoyed the fishing. Beth loved the village visit. We all really loved seeing the pink dolphins! What an adventure! We can't wait to tell all our friendsand share our adventure! Aqua is 1st class all the way! And the Aqua band rocks!
Lucas party, July 2010.
Excelente servicio y disponibilidad de los guías. Siempre con una sonrisa y hacen la experiencia más agradable! Felicidades! Contentos con el servicio, amabilidad y disposición de toda la tripulación. La habitación es muy cómoda.
Sra. Garza, July 2010.
Son grandes guías, muy entusiastas! Contagian el entusiasmo! Nos encantó la cortesía del personal, los paseos en lancha y las experiencias únicas.
Sr. Campos, July 2010.
We were very impressed with the knowledge, enthusiasm and kindness of Daniel, Victor and Roland. They wanted to give us the best experience possible. We will have great memories! We enjoyed the expeditions and wildlife. Also the Aqua band! They were great and lots of fun. We thought the trip was well planned - lots of different activities, so we have no suggestions. Very enjoyable!
Mr. and Mrs. Woods, July 2010.
All crew members were patient and friendly and informative. We enjoyed the visit to the villages where the kids played soccer and we learned about the way of life in the Amazon.
Mr. Stein, July 2010.
Carlos was particularly good at his job, I really enjoyed seeing him at each meal. We loved our tour guides rotating for each activity.
Mr. and Mrs. King, July 2010.
The skiff drivers were very skilled - thir knowledge and eyesight contributed to the excursions. All three guides were very enthusiastic, they definitely love their jobs. It was very relaxing and we enjoyed all, especially the trips to indigenous villages to meet the poeple who live in the Amazon.
D. Friel, July 2010.
Los tres guías fueron excelentes, muy corteses, agradables y conocen muy bien su trabajo. El recorrido es muy interesante, uno aprende mucho con los guías. La comida es excelente y el viaje es muy cómodo.
Sr. Cabrera, July 2010.
Gracious staff, wonderful guides, loved being on the Aqua. We loved it all!
Mr. and Mrs. Uphold, July 2010.
Everything was outstanding. The attention to even the smallest details was superb!
Haggerty party, June 2010.
The boat, food, staff and excursions were great!
Mr. and Mrs. Reaves, June 2010.
Ricardo was great at catching caimans. Victor has a great sense of humor. The guides were so warm and friendly. They made the trip!
Mr. and Mrs. George, June 2010.
Enjoyed all of the crew!!! Very friendly - hospitable. Service was excellent!
Mr. and Mrs. Moraza, June 2010
Food was delicious and varied. Housekeeping: excellent attention to every detail. The entire crew is fantastic, superior, always wonderfully attentive, pleasant, professional, tremendous!! A wonderful experience!
Quartucci and Carey, May 2010.
Thank you to one and all for making our Amazon experience a lifetime memory. Our full day excursion was an unbelievable day. However, everyday was an experience we will never forget because of your staff.
Mr. and Mrs. Bass, May 2010.
Thank you - a most enjoyable trip and especially so because of the excellent service and friendliness of the staff.
Mr. and Mrs. Oliver, May 2010.
Excellent service. Robinson in the bar and Carlos in the restaurant. The expeditions were well managed, the guides were knowledgeable and the skiffs were reasonably comfortable.
Mr. and Mrs. Paton, May 2010.
We loved exploring wildlife with the extraordinary guides. They were informative, entertaining, amiable, patient, enthusiastic - truly excellent!
Mr. and Mrs. Teresi, May 2010.
Guides worked hard to provide us with the optimal experience of seeing as much wildlife as possible. Very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna and local people. Their enthusiasm was contagious! The skiffs outings were different each day and the food was fabulous. The cabin was kept immaculate and the crew was very polite and hard working.
Mr. and Mrs. Hogben, May 2010.
We just got home and we loved the trip!! We did the 7 days and have no regrets for selecting 7 days. Barry and I highly recommend the 7 days since we were able to really get deep into the Amazon region and feel the culture of the people. The guides are very knowledeable and friendly people....we loved being escorted by Roland, Daniel, and Victor!! This trip would not be memorable had it not have been for Robinson, who kept servicing our every need! The crew had many talents...when Denis, the lead waiter was not serving the outstanding food (especially the desserts!) he would entertain us with his fabulous voice along with the talented Aqua Band...in Fact we recommend to buy their CD just to keep those memories with you forever!! We thank Aqua and the professional Aqua crew for the wonderful experience we had in the Amazon!! Love to you all,
Mr. and Mrs. Steinberg, April 2010
Our guides were extraordinary and rank with the best we had at high end resorts in Africa. They are the best ambassadors Peru can have.
Mr. and Mrs. Kashnow, April 2010
All staff went out of their way to make it a special experience - loved the towel origamis! We enjoyed the most: skiff trips, attention to details at every level and their passion for the Amazon.
Mr. and Mrs. Edelheit, April 2010
All 3 guides were brilliant, enthusiastic and passionate about the rainforest, able to share their knowledge and help us see the animals.
Mr. and Mrs. Jones, April 2010
The best crew and guides ever encountered. Their courtesy to guests and cooperation with one another makes it even more fun and wonderful. We came for the Amazon and it lived up to our expectations but with the help of a luxury vessel and spectacular guides.
Mr. and Mrs. Meadows, March 2010
All guides were simply excellent. A very special "total experience" and a privilege to have seen this special world. Hard to inprove on a nearly perfect operation!!! Great team effort. Many thanks!
Mr. and Mrs. Fuehrer, March 2010
We loved the guides' enthusiasm, wealth of knowledge. We enjoyed returning after each adventure to a cool and clean ship with great crew members, good food and drinks. We suggest that you continue giving back to the locals. The Aqua is an excellent ambassador.
Mr. and Mrs. Eisch, March 2010
We could not think of a better way to enjoy and learn about the Amazonian rainforest and it's people.
Mr. and Mrs. Eberspacher, March 2010
Being in the rainforest accompanied by such knowledgeable, helpful and friendly guides. In all, an experience of a lifetime.
Mr. and Mrs. Cave, March 2010
Todo estuvo increíble y sobrepasó mis expectativas al 100%. Desde el barco, la atención y todo, hasta la naturaleza que es realmente impresionante. Para mi es uno de los mejores viajes que he hecho hasta el momento.
Sra. Kostic, February 2010
We want to say, as I know many have done before, what a superlative tour we had with your crew on 'Aqua'. The kindness, and the professionalism of the whole crew, the knowledge of our guides, the comfort, the fun and the consideration made for a wonderful experience. We are so appreciative of the amount and the variety of information the guides gave us about everything we saw. We were shown so much in our week with the expedition. The wildlife, the people, the rivers and the history. A week we will never forget and guides who are incredible educators. Thank you.
Mr. and Mrs. Churcher, February 2010
We boarded the Aqua in Iquitos, Peru, for seven days on the Amazon & its tributaries. Most of our time was spent on 8-passenger skiffs exploring the rain forest, but when we returned to the Aqua, we were pampered in air-conditioned comfort. Yummy Peruvian food. So what was it like? It was magical. Hundreds of pink dolphin & lots of gray ones. We held baby caimen, caught piranhas, fed baby manatees with a milk bottle. Monkeys-five different kinds- entertained us each day and sloths slept high in cecropia trees. The rare sighting of an Amazon porcupine (they have prehensile tails!) even surprised our guides. Birds there are incredible. Splashes of primary colors and sounds that defy imagination. Some of us identified over 140 different species and even I had well over 100. We spent a few hours in a random village along a river. Impossibly simple lives. We brought gifts to hand out to the children. They sang and we did a rousing "You are my sunshine..." in return. When you are together for a week, you expect a little mediocrity to emerge. Absolutely none here. In the end, I told the crew in my shaky Spanish that the river lives in our hearts. It certainly does.
M. Seymour, February 2010
The Aqua service, food, friendliness, the iitinerary pace and variety, enthusiasm of all the guides and crew was great. They were safety minded and worked hard to make everyone happy. It was an outstanding experience! We love it! We would do it again and we can't wait to share the experience with our friends. Thank you for sharing the Amazon with us!!
Mr. and Mrs. Mecherlkoff, February 2010
The music performance by naturalist and crew was a great fun. We enjoyed the whole trip very much.
Tolhurst, January 2010
We enjoyed interacting with the guides, They are so knowledgeable and caring about the environment and ensuring everyone enjoys themselves. Everything was fantastic, thank you!
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, January 2010
We loved being out on the reiver - beautiful eco-system, sighting pink dolphins, learning from naturalists and native people. The staff are all very helpful and anxious to please. Very professional.
Enloe party, January 2010
All guides were top notch! Especially appreciated that they had grown up in the Amazon region and knew it extensively. Staff kind and considerate made boatlife more enjoyable. Interaction among guides, staff and crew was an additional benefit.
Mr. Ritzel, January 2010
Fantastic itinerary, extremely friendly staff, beautiful boat!
Mr. Parks, January 2010
The boat excursions and the wonderful guides were great. We also loved the band.
Mr. and Mrs. Conrad, December 2009
The naturalists genuine excitement and love for the Amazon made this trip unforgettable. They were all beyond amazing.
Mr. and Mrs. Cohen, December 2009
First we want to tell you that we had a wonderful trip. The time we spent in lima was great---we had a nice tour of the city. The cruise was wonderful----everyone on the staff were very efficient----the boat and our daily activities were beyond our expectations. We want to send some clothes & books for people in the local villages that the aqua crew can give out----where do we send them. Thank you and regards.
Mr. and Mrs. Beck, November 2009
No sabes la alegría que me dio leer esta nota, la verdad que tu empresa es un orgullo y ejemplo para otras empresas, y las felicitaciones por esta nominación, que no hace sino confirmar que el turismo puede realmente convertirse en una actividad económicamente competitiva, socialmente inclusiva y ambientalmente responsable como bien lo manifiesta nuestro Ministro, Sr. Martín Pérez.
Gracias por apostar por Loreto, y estoy segura que, con el Río Amazonas ubicado el día de hoy en el tercer lugar del ranking mundial del concurso de las Siete Maravillas Naturales del Mundo, la promoción hacia el destino se verá fortalecida.
Un abrazo y que sigan los éxitos.
C. Alegria, Ministerio de Turismo del Peru, November 2009
El viaje resultó extraordinario desde todo punto de vista: las atenciones del personal "en tierra", la preciosa embarcación, el equipo humano que nos acompañó y apoyó en todo el viaje, el entorno maravilloso de la selva, la excelente comida y los increíbles detalles!!!!!
Y ni que decir de la sorpresa final que nos dió el Grupo Musical de Aqua, especialmente Denis, con su extraordinaria habilidad para tocar instrumentos simultaneamente....
Nuevamente, gracias por todo.
Ojalá que cada día haya mas peruanos que se interesen por esta ruta.
Sr. y Sra. Cigueñas, October 2009.
This experience far exceeded anything I could have hoped for in the Amazon. My experience of laying in bed and watching the jungle go by or the wonderful experience with our guides in the skiffs and then to top it off the 5 star dining.
K. Upchurch, Odyssey Travel, September 2009.
The boat itself is terrific - comfortable, sleek, modern - very impressive. The food was such a surprise, I must say! I expected good food, but not at the level that you've been able to inspire from your team. But most of all, the entire crew, and especially the guides, made our five days a truly memorable experience. I have traveled the world for many years in the company of some of the best guides to be found. Yours are on that level with their knowledge, their enthusiasm, their friendliness and the pride and delight in sharing their country and what they know. Just fantastic and such fun!
C. Holloway, Orient Express, September 2009.
The trip was all we had hoped for and more. Claudia, the Cruise Director, took very good care of us and she along with Winston, the ship's doctor, gave me special attention when I needed it. The three guides, Juan, Daniel, and Victor, were outstanding. They had exceptional knowledge of the trip and were excellent in finding and showing us the wildlife. Denis was exceptional in the dining room while Thomas gave us special treatment in our room. Of course, Robinson made our off hours pleasant in the lounge. The food was excellent, served perfectly and tasted superb! The"Aqua International Band" was a delight at the farewell parties on Tuesday and Friday nights and particularly were a surprise and pleased us when they helped celebrate my wife's birthday and we appreciated it very much.
Mr. and Mrs. Walls, October 2009
I have just returned home today and it is hard to believe the journey has ended! I can't tell you what a truly incredible experience it really was - now, looking back Aqua and Machu Pichu were truly my two favorite parts of the trip! Your team was simply the BEST. I can't get over the talents of the guides not to mention the entire team.
M. Andersen, Admiral Travel, October 2009
I found 4 nights on the boat to be perfect and everything about the experience exceptional...especially the crew and guides(food was great too!) I know your new terminal lounge will be beautiful and I really enjoyed my tour on the last day of both the floating city and the manatee center.
M. Gaughen, Sterling Travel, October 2009
The staff was exceptional, the food was great, accommodations were comfortable and luxurious – the trip, overall, was one of the most memorable of my life. I loved (and will treasure) every minute!
C. Perleberg, Travel Specialist, Sept 2009
My wife had asked me years ago to take her on a cruise of the Amazon, but until I saw the photos and description of the Aqua I never really considered it. The cruise became our 36th wedding anniversary gift to ourselves and was perfect. The ship is even better than we expected. In particular, the wide picture windows of the staterooms that allowed us to lie in bed with coffee and watch the river traffic flow past, and the fast, stable skiffs that enabled your naturalist guides to take us up winding tributaries to visit isolated villages and experience spectaculor sunsets really made us smile.
Let me also comment on the excellent security you provided. Having lived in Africa and worked in the Middle East and South Asia, we appreciate the need for good security. We never felt ill at ease on the cruise and found your security to be robust and reassuring.
Thank you for the personal attention that you have shown in our travel. We had a wonderful trip and look forward to another visit in the future.
Mr. and Mrs. Butts, August 2009
We still dreaming about this wonderful experience at the Amazon river with the most knowledgeable and friendly guides we have ever met. We liked everything about this amazing experience at the Amazon river: the people we met, the animals and nature we saw, the ambience of the cruiser, the food and of course the river itself.
Mr. and Mrs. Megerle, July 2009
If you want to see the real Amazon, the Aqua is the way to do it.
K. Bellows, Editor in Chief, National Geographic Traveler, 2009
We absolutely love the Aqua! Had such a fabulous time; wish we were still there! The boat is wonderful, the crew was fantastic, and we're still talking about how much fun it was.
C. Pieper, June 2009
Great boat and crew and fantastic tour - will excite all my friends. Well done, thanks.
E.Gartner, May 2009
All went out of their way to be of assistance. The guides were especially good and extremely knowledgeable.
Mr. Knight, May 2009
We had an outstanding experience in every way! You run a perfect operation. Huge thank you.
J. Kong, May 2009
You are amazong - you take luxury service into the rainforest with style and grace. Guides are great and fun guys. Chef is first rate. We'll recommend you to all our friends.
Mr. and Mrs. McIntyre, May 2009
Everything worked so well that is difficult to see how you could improve your excellent service. We would have no hesitation in recommending the Aqua to our friends.
Mr. and Mrs. Miles, May 2009
Please stay in business, this was thrilling! I cannot speak highly enough about Christian, Diego and Denis. Wonderful service!. Winston also went above and beyond.
D. Kinnard, May 2009
Juan is particularly a strong guide who is also a good listener. He tries to be always tuned into both rainforest and the questions of guests - an excellent role model. Incredible cuisine - soups, entrees, desserts and breads - kudos and praise to all in the kitchen. Thanks also to Denis, Carlos and Diego for all attentive professional excellent service. Diego appeared to work non stop - always smiling and meeting our requests. Christian kept our cabins impeccably clean and went out of his way to anticipate our needs. Guadalupe was available 24/7 and always quick with answers to varied topics of questions.
Mr. Kinnard, May 2009
Truly outstanding four day programme. Guides very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Adherence to timetable worthy of special attention. Wonderful attention to detail. Breakfast in the lagoon and mimosas among giant lilies worth special mention. Closing concert by members of the staff a treat! Any one day's excursion was worth the whole trip.
R. Flamini - April 2009
The crew on this ship goes out of their way to make sure everything is perfect for everyone. Loved the Aqua band.
Mr. and Mrs. Wilhem - April 2009
I feel you have got it all right. The vessel is way above expectations. The food a gastronomic delight and with the friendly staff, it all makes for a wonderful experience. Bravo! A big thankful to the doctor aboard.
Mr. and Mrs. Hindson - April 2009
The M/V Aqua has become our Amazonia "home". Everyone went out of their way to make us feel like a part of their extended family. We will return and hopefully send others to visit with you.
Mr. and Mrs. Melvin - April 2009
Service by staff and guides was truly superb! Ricky was an awesome guide. We had a great time with him on the skiffs. Guadalupe was always on the ball and took good care of us.
Mr. and Mrs. Varshawsky - April 2009
I want to thank you for the wonderful river tour we experienced in March of this year. It will never be forgotten, and especially by my grandson, Sam. He has been ask to put together a PowerPoint presentation at his school. As you know, Sam was able to get many pictures of the jungle, wild life, and the river and will use these photos in his presentation. We hope all is well with you and the crew. What you provided for us was a once in a lifetime experience. A special thank you for stopping at the Indian market so that Sam could purchase the drum. He has demonstrated it many times and
also to his drum teacher. Again, thanks for making all of this possible for myself as well as for Sam.
Happy sailing, until we meet again.....
E. Palmer and grandson, March 2009
Nothing beats enjoying a nice cold Aqua Sour on the top deck bar area after a day searching the Amazon Rainforest for monkeys. As soon as I got home - I told my top clients about this amazing experience.
M. Holtz, The Smart Flyer, March 2009
Every time I go into the Amazon, I am humbled and awed by the incredible power of the jungle, the river, and its people. Aboard the beautiful MV Aqua- I was highly impressed by the quality of service provided to each guest, the attention given to even the smallest details, and the genuinely enthusiastic demeanor of all the boat staff. The naturalists were not only highly knowledgeable about all things in nature, they were exceptional individuals with an obvious love for what they do and all life in the jungle.
C. Cousteau, Destinations at Risk by Butterfield and Robinson, February 2009
Our 7 nights aboard the M/V Aqua exceeded our expectations. It was a terrific trip, and I think we had excellent exposure to the Amazon basin. The staff aboard Aqua were most pleasant and accommodating. It's hard to imagine that the M/V Aqua has been in operation for just over a year. It seems like all the systems have been in operation and honed to near perfection over years.
F. Davis, February 2009
This is a rare assemblage of superbly knowledgeable, friendly and capable people.
Mr. and Mrs. Golden, February 2009
The M/V Aqua experience was the best, the very best. Everyone loved it. The boat, the food, the excursions, the Amazon – everything lined up to our high expectations. You are, I am sure, feeling very good about the whole program. You will be hearing from us about next year. It was great to see you in Peru. All the best,
G. Butterfield, February 2009
Everyone gets a 5 rating. Knowledgeable guides, skilled drivers, personnel warm and helpful.
M. Bryant, February 2009
Overall excellent service and attention. Safe and smooth cruise with pleasant but professional atmosphere.
C. Lowe, February 2009
Your crew is AAA!! in every respect. The vessel accommodations were pleasantly surprising. The captain is delightful and obviously does an outstanding job of managing the boat. The guides are extraordinary and friendly. They do a remarkable job of keeping us safe and happy. They are the very best! The whole crew and Dennis in the dining room are delightful and very good.
Mr. and Mrs. Rosenthal, February 2009
Guides are absolutely fantastic – so enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We love all of them. Your crowning glory is the staff; please look after them as I am sure you do as they are happy.
T. Coggins, February 2009
Guides are awesome! Knowledge superb, took very good care of us. Incredible service, positive attitude – always smiling. Very impressed. We appreciate having a paramedic on board. Enjoyed program of music, food and wine were superb!
Mr. and Mrs. Flanagan, February 2009
Wonderful, wonderful trip, everyone was so nice and accommodating. The food was just amazing, creative and delicious!
D. Shapiro, February 2009
Everything was wonderful from the accommodations and spaciousness of the rooms to the food and excursions – 5+. Everything was first class and we loved everything. Gracias!
Mr. and Mrs. Townsend, February 2009
We could not have made a better choice for our trip. Everyone was very nice. The guides were great. Loved the excursions. The food was just fabulous. Sorry for it to end. It was great!! We will recommend the cruise and the Aqua to everyone we know.
Mr. and Mrs. Veit, February 2009
We just sailed on this wonderful boat last week and were totally amazed with the experience. From the meet-and-greet at Iquitos to the drop-off at the airport five days later...we did the four night. It certainly did exceed our expectations. The accomodations, the staff, the food and experience were all first class. A high class act! The suites (we were on the second level) were spacious and well appointed. Now, the food! Breakfast, lunch and dinner were spectacular. Eggs etc. to order, fresh fruit, pastries (all were amazing)...each day the breads were freshly baked and the local produce was fresh and pure. Oh, the juices are to die for. Lunch buffet hit the spot and offered variety (vegetarians will be very happy). Dinner was the highlight...wines, great service and meat or fish dishes. The vegetarian dishes were so great many of us ordered them for sides to share. Portobello mushrooms on the Amazon! The excursion were just right for our group (avg. age was about fifty). So, we can't say enough about this company, crew and experience. Enjoy, go and do it and do it with the best!
P. Darren, January 2009 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
I just returned from the seven day option on the M/V Aqua and have only glowing reports to give. If we could have stayed another week, I would have. I'm even considering a return during the dry season. This is truly the interface between luxury travel and a wilderness expedition. My top priority was to have excellent and knowledgeable guides. All of the guides are indigenous to the region having actually grown up in the Amazonian rain forest. They have eagle eyes! I don't know how the guides do it but we saw almost 80 species of birds, numerous species of monkeys, reptiles and amphibians. Yes - there really are pink dolphins in the river! The crew is delightful. The skiffs used for daily exploration are comfortable as well and there are always ponchos available for the inevitable and occasional downpour. The rooms spacious and beautiful - not like on the other expeditions that seem to equate roughing it with going into the wilderness. The food is delicious but is also on the light and healthy side with delicious deserts that left many of us clamoring for recipes. Last, I was thrilled by the diversity of the other travelers. Our companions for the week were from all over the world. Run, don't walk and reserve on this wonderful boat.
Eclectictravel, January 2009 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
Truly the interface between luxury cruising and wilderness expeditions. I've done others and the Aqua outshines them all. The boat is beautiful and comfortable, the meals are excellent, the guides are indigenous to the area, love what they do and really know the wildlife. On a scale of one to ten, I put this at a 15. The Mighty Amazon is exactly that - mighty and remote but we navigated tributaries in the wonderful skiffs that are integral to sightseeing along the river. We saw almost 80 species of birds, numerous snakes, lizards, caimans, and more. I was very moved by the people in the tiny villages along the shores. The scenery is spectacular and the trip was all about keeping the dynamic group aboard the Aqua happy and stimulated. All in all, a wonderful experience. We're talking about going back in the dry season! Warm regards to all of you.
J. Block, January 2009
I don't think that I fully processed my week on the Aqua yet. There are so many thoughts rolling around my head. The ship itself, of course; the crew and brilliant guides, the food; but what stands out most are two things. The first is the amazing group of people on board. How wonderful the chemistry was is quite amazing. I know that it is a rarified group of people who go on a voyage such as the one you offer, but think about it.......we all got along so well! Second and more important is how the time in the Amazon affected me. The beauty of the area itself and the flora and fauna we saw; but more important than that, I think, is what we saw of the people. That last village? Caribe? and the faces we saw. Juan's talking to us of the happiness of the children; that their lives are easy, happy and simple. I have so many thoughts about that. What I mean to tell you is that, well beyond the ship and the wildlife, this trip offers so much more. Thank you for that. Again, thank you for a week that will last long in my memory and change the way I look at things. Warmly and fondly,
A. Weinshank, January 2009
Everyone was most helpful, knowledgeable and interesting. Our needs were met with good will and courtesy. Our questions were answered with a high degree of local knowledge and a very good grasp of English.
Mr. and Mrs. Roloson, January 2009
Visiting the Amazon was always a dream of ours. The Aqua’ team made our dream come true. It was better than expected! Thank you very much!
E. Onrust, January 2009
The service was amazing! Everyone was friendly, kind and professional. The boat was exceptional as was the food. We will definitely recommend this trip to others. Thank you for your kindness.
Mr. and Mrs. Morgridge, December 2008
Everything was handled so smoothly from the day to day tours to meals, really exceptional. Dream architecture, we will tear down our house upon return.
Mr. and Mrs. Bradford, December 2008
We enjoyed to travel with people who loves to show their country and have a pride in what they do. Please change nothing!
C. Moffett, December 2008
We've just got to internet access after our week on the Aqua and I just had to drop you a note right away to say we had the most amazing time. The accommodation, the trips out, the guides, the food, the service - everyone on board - was of the highest standard and we were spoilt and educated and entertained from the minute we arrived to the moment we left. Thank you all so much. I wanted to write to you personally to say an enormous thank you from Ian and me for all the effort you all put in to giving us such a memorable, happy trip. Many thanks and very best wishes,
J. Prowse, November 2008
I just wanted to send you an email to tell you what a FANTASTIC time I had on the Aqua. Wow - it so exceeded my wildest expectations! The crew, naturalists, state room, and food were incredible. Not only was my cruise one of the best travel experiences of my life - but one of my life's greatest adventures. Cheers and thanks for a wonderful time!
T. Abrams, November 2008
We just returned from a 7 night trip on the Aqua and it was fantastic. The accommodations were very comfortable: a California king size bed, a sofa sitting area (small- you're on a boat) and a nice cozy bath. Everything was very clean although there were a few of the inevitable insects since you are in the rainforest. The food was excellent with plenty of variety. It was hard to believe that you were on a relatively small boat cruising the Amazon and its tributaries. The guides were also great and very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We had a fun group on our skiff and had a lot of laughs while we were exploring. The experience of floating down a small stream with nobody else around except- upon occasion- a local fisherman fishing from his dugout canoe was exhilarating. Once we left Iquitos we never saw another tourist. All of the above and luxury too is hard to beat.
FritzL2, November 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
Nos la pasamos como nunca, todo estuvo muy padre. Karlita muchas gracias por toda tu atención, te vamos a extrañar mucho. Daniel, Victor, Juan: nos encantó como bailaban y como tocaban, gracias por enseñarnos todos los animales del río Amazonas. Raúl: muchas gracias porque nos ayudaste en todas nuestras molestias especialmente las molestias de los mosquitos, te vamos a extrañar. Denis y Aquiles: muchas gracias por atendernos tan bien y dejarnos con la boca abierta. Denis nos encantó tu música. Gracias a todos los demás por ayudarnos en todo, los vamos a extrañar a todos y juramos regresar. Ah y otra cosa que no se nos va a olvidar, la comida!!! Estaba buenísima. Los vamos a extrañar y muchas gracias por consentirnos tanto. Los queremos.
M. Quintero, M. y D. Verdes, November 2008
Thank you for all your help and courtesy in connection with our recent trip on the Aqua. It was great in every way. The ship, Aqua staff, arrangements and expeditions were all terrific. One of the best overall travel experiences we have ever had. Very best regards to you and your colleagues.
Mr. and Mrs. Woodworth, October 2008
We very much enjoyed our experience on the AQUA and especially appreciated the excellent staff. As you saw from our video, they are very involved with the group in helping them to learn more about the incredible Amazon region. Please forward our best to our dear friends on the AQUA. Sincerely,
Mr. and Mrs. Schumacher, September 2008
We just got back from our 7 day trip on the M/V Aqua yesterday and would rate it as one of the most fantastic trips we've been on. We have been on other small boat luxury trips and thought this was the best - hands down. We thought the food was fantastic. I am vegetarian and my husband is aquatarian. Meals are always a concern when booking a trip. There was plenty of variety and the food was very tasty. I cannot imagine walking away hungry from dinner. The first course was always soup, then an appetizer, then the main course (3 choices), then a sorbet taster and desert (2 choices). The guides were enthusiastic and very informative. We had a blast! No complaints at all. We highly recommend this trip. 7 nights is best, but if you can't do the whole week, we definitely recommend the 4 day trip as the Pacaya River was the highlight. Go and enjoy! You won't regret it.
Brandygirl20, September 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
We just returned from a 4 night trip on the Aqua (September 08). We stayed in one of the master suites on the first floor (at the front of the boat). The food was excellent. Breakfast and lunch are both buffets with plenty to choose from (I loved their tamales). The staff is very accommodating. There just isn't anything else plying the waters of Iquitos that offers the same level of luxury. The highlight is an evening skiff ride in which our guide caught a caiman. We'll definitely go back and check out the Amazon during the rainy season with M/V Aqua.
Eric_C_W, September 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
What an OUTSTANDING experience!!! Cannot say enough about the crew!
V. McNamara, September 2008
I know that you want us to fill out the comment thing when we departed, but I thought I would send you an email instead to tell you how much our family enjoyed our time on the Aqua. You have a special group of guides and staff, and I think you are on to something for the higher end traveler. Again, thank you for a memorable experience and if you ever need a recommendation, just ask.
H. Yancy, August 2008
I also would like to give you my personal recommendation for Victor. I have traveled with naturalists on yachts in several countries and he and Daniel are on a whole new level. I feel I learned more during my week aboard Aqua than in years of school. I watched Victor completely inspire every person on the trip - from bored 13 year-old kids to urbanite lawyers who rarely undertake such wild outdoor ventures, to older couples who have been on 30+ safaris all over the world. He is an incredibly knowledgeable and intelligent person, a stellar guide and was indispensable during the week.
Jordan Mitchnick, Editor, August 2008
We traveled on the MV Aqua in mid July on a 4 night trip. The entire trip was amazing. The boat, the staff, the excursions, the food was all fantastic. The food was fantastic, it could not have been better. We thought that the choice of food options and the meals themselves were great. We actually did not expect that we would have much choice in meal options and were pleasantly surprised. The guides and staff were great- there are so many staff that there is always someone available to help you. The excursions were well planned and provided a lot of variety. We enjoyed every part of the excursions. We loved the experience, would recommend it to anyone and we would definitely do it again. We did also get lucky and have a wonderful group of people on the boat with us. We enjoyed meeting and getting to know everyone that we were with.
Triker93, July 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
We are just back from 16 days in Peru that started with 4 nights on the Amazon. We went with Aqua Expeditions. Great boat, guides, food etc. I cannot say one thing I would change about this experience. In looking at some of the other river boats we saw, I was glad we were on the Aqua because every room had HUGE windows that you could lay in bed and look out of. Lots of glass, lounge chairs on the top deck over all great experience.
SaintJill, July 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
This was the most amazing Amazon experience EVER!! I reccomend it to everyone of my clients traveling to Peru! My guides Daniel and Usiel were so informative and had eyes as sharp of hawks! The crew were all so nice as well and the food was amazing!! I did not have a Camu-Camu Sour but I couldn't get enough of the fresh Camu-Camu juice! ;-)
H. Kilpatrick, Ker & Downey, June 2008
Upon arrival we were met by the MV Aqua Greeter Eva and Daniel – one of the Naturalists in the MV Aqua. We were given a quick tour of Iquitos and then driven to the MV Aqua – the most luxurious ship on the Amazon. We did the 3 night cruise which starts in Iquitos. We all had so much fun together and I believe the quality of cliental aboard the ship help to make the cruise what it is. I love the dinner, all portions were perfect size and delicious. Whether you are a meat eater or vegetarian – the MV Aqua caters to all. Early morning excursion on the skiffs to enjoy the birds, monkeys and sloths. We passed locals fishing and canoeing along the river. We listened to the sounds of the dense jungle and learned about the habitats of the wonderful creatures of the vanishing gem. We arrived back in time for a yummy buffet style breakfast and went out again after breakfast to fish for piranhas. We had an amazing experience as we floated alongside white egrets getting ready to nest for the evening. We also spotted tarantula’s on a tree and our fearless guide Usiel caught a caiman by hand to show us interesting facts about them. We caught the most magnificent sunset and visited a village where the local school children danced for us in their tribal dress. It is a project by the teacher to help the children remember their past and sing and dance traditional songs. They kids were so beautiful and danced so well – it brought tears to my eyes. Everyone of the Aqua was amazing and I was so sad to leave, I almost cried! What a great experience this all has been. I cannot wait to return and explore more of what Peru has to offer.
M. Guy, Ker & Downey, June 2008
Felicidades por el proyecto tan diferente y tan bien realizado. Estuvimos maravillados por la oportunidad de visitar esta maravilla del mundo y hacerlo de la manera que lo hicimos. Cuenten en que seremos unos embajadores de su itinerario, barco... Mucha suerte. Saludos.
R. Obregón, June 2008
We just returned from a 7-day cruise with Aqua Expedition. It was an amazing adventure! The ship is totally a 5-star experience. The rooms are beautiful, spacious, very clean and comfortable. The staff was diligent and totally consumed with pleasing us. In fact, we were not pleased with the itinerary and the ship's director and the Naturalists altered the schedule to meet our desires to do more hiking than sitting on a skiff. The meat, shrimp and fish were delicious; the lunches outstanding.
Anniep1977, May 2008 (Posted on Tripadvisor)
My wife and I, and our friends the Valoves, have returned safely and healthy from our Amazon adventure aboard the Aqua. We thoroughly enjoyed our time. I want to take some time to point out particularly 3 staff members with whom we were most impressed. First, Karla Benzaquen, the Cruise Director, was so accommodating, friendly, and informative. She worked hard to make our experience enjoyable and full. She should be commended. In addition, our guides, Usiel and Manuel, were top rate, personable, loaded with knowledge and eager to talk about the Amazon. Manuel, in particular, has a real enthusiasm for his work, and it shows. Finally, we never underestimated the skills and patience of the skiff drivers; they, perhaps, have the hardest jobs. We have spoken very highly of our trip with our friends here in the States and we will continue to do so.
Mr. and Mrs. Abramson, May 2008
We were very satisfied with our stay on board the Aqua. Your crew, the boat, food, and the places we visited were very good. I wrote an article about M/V Aqua in the August 2008 issue of a monthly Turkish Sailing & Yachting Magazine. The magazine is called "NAVIGA". Thank you all for the great experience.
S. Ediger, May 2008
You have created an amazing product, and I feel privileged to have spent a week with your crew on the Amazon. Thank you for my beautiful cabin, for your warm hospitality, for my birthday cake on Sunday (complete with guitar singing!), and for making me feel so welcome and so special. I was very impressed with the product, the excursions, and the hardware - but most of all - I loved your crew. They are a fantastic, professional, warmhearted group.
I. Maza, Signature Network, May 2008
All crew and guides are extraordinary. Ship is beautifully designed and appointed. Everyone was most helpful. It was a wonderful experience fulfilling a lifetime dream. Thank you all.
D. Nelson, April 2008
I sincerely thank you for your kindness, your sense of welcome and the way you share your knowledge. This boat is unbelievable, you make a very good work! Merci et trés bonne chance à tous.
D. Thebaud, April 2008
All in all we enjoyed this trip very much and would love to come back. Thank you for a very relaxing, enjoyable 4 days.experience.
D. Hale, April 2008
The entire staff is the best we've met throughout the world!. All excellent and exceptional in every way - knowledge, personality, English and humor.
W. Roberts, April 2008
For me this trip was the most memorable trip I have had on the Amazon plus my first cruise. The staff were all amazing my only wish was that I had spent a week on the boat. I highly recommend this trip to all my clients and anyone wanting an unforgettable 5 star cruise. Also they did have the most amazing food on board. I couldn't get enough of the heart of Palm. ;-)
H. Coughlan , Cox & Kings UK, March 2008
Sailing on the Aqua: Imagine the surprise and giddiness when one discovers a promise of great things to actually come true! Such is the experience of sighting the Aqua for the first time: immediately, it becomes apparent this will be no ordinary enterprise. From her striking naval architecture to modern and soothing colouring hues, the Aqua delivers on every front: commodious cabins with gigantic bay windows, attentive service, smiling helpful staff and seamless operation. The star of the show is supposed to be the clever Amazon itinerary if not the destination in itself and these are powerful in their own right but the Aqua itself almost steals the spotlight - it's that good. After all, we are sailing in untouched jungle amidst a not so hospitable environment for city slickers; we are here to experience raw rainforest with its myriad life forms. This experience is facilitated by Aqua's three local naturalists or "supernaturalists" for they seem to divine where the wildlife is rather than merely spot it. Thanks to them, sloths become distinguishable, howler monkeys howl back, dolphins cavort nearby and bird songs acquire meaning. One does not step off the Aqua without experiencing another critical aspect of any foreign journey: the local cuisine. Thanks to a fantastic kitchen, every meal is an opportunity to sample Peru's famous local fare, always presented with a twist. Even the cocktails, made with supernutrient amazonian fruit the "kamu kamu" are healthy.
D. Giossan - Butterfield & Robinson, February 2008
At the kind invitation of Francesco Galli Zugaro, we had a lovely experience. Francesco is a visionary in the same manner as a young Lars Eric Lindblad was. From scratch he has built the all suite luxury expedition vessel M.V. Aqua. Based in Iquitos on the mighty Amazon River, it will set a new level of luxury not experienced before in this part of the world. Our suite was impeccably designed and outfitted. No deluxe amenity has been overlooked. This was complimented by gourmet cuisine and fine wines created by Miguel Schiaffino, from Lima's famed Malabar restaurant. Iquitos is still very exotic and the superb staff and excellent guides entertained us with lectures and side expeditions to remote villages and reserves not normally accessible. Four your sophisticated deluxe clients.....this it IT! A wonderful new option for those who have been to the Galapagos for instance. A short flight from Lima takes you to Francesco's new world. I am sure he will create many other new/exciting projects in the future. I highly recommend the trip/vessel. The best to all from sunny Lima - 73 degrees Fahrenheit today.
B. Aab - Linden Travel, February 2008
Dear Francesco, Thank you so much for all your hospitality and taking the time to show us Aqua and the deep, dark regions of the Amazon. We are all very excited for you and feel that you will definitely deliver on a luxury product and experience of which our clients will enjoy. We look forward to hearing more after your first cruise and we wish you nothing but great success! Best regards.
S. Wiseman - Abercrombie and Kent USA, December 2007
