16 Jan 2025
Delfin Amazon Cruises Announces Refurbishment of Delfin I
& New Special Interest Voyages for 2025
Wellness Journey, Pink River Dolphin Research and Wildlife Photography
for September, October, and November onboard Delfin III
Iquitos, Peru (January 14, 2025) Delfin Amazon Cruises (Delfin), the first Relais & Châteaux Cruise company in the world and upscale river cruise operator in the Upper Peruvian Amazon, is pleased to announce three special interest departures to set sail in 2025 onboard its Delfin III. The family-owned company will have the Delfin I return this April after a 3-month full renovation as they continue to set the highest standards for impeccable 5-star hospitality and authentic Peruvian design. Offering superb local cuisine and an unparalleled dining experience, the culinary team has created a flexitarian menu, consisting of mostly plant-based recipes, as an alternative to bring awareness to the consequences of eating animal protein, while still offering catering of all types to its clients with fresh and exotic ingredients. These offerings align with UNESCO and the Relais & Châteaux Association's joint efforts to prioritize sustainable food systems within the tourism sector.
Furthering their commitment to helping travelers experience the Amazon through various lenses, be it wellness, conservation, or creativity, Delfin has invited a wellness coach to lead a voyage, a renowned expert in the fields of rainforest biodiversity and wildlife species to lead a voyage and an esteemed photographer who will uncover the rainforest through the camera lens on a third one. Passengers will gain enlightening insights as they cruise the Amazon River with mindfulness alchemist Brisa Deneumostier, award-winning wildlife photographer Walter Wust, and pink river dolphin and conservation specialist Dr. Joanna Alfaro.
September 23, 2025 | 4-Nights
Wellness Voyage with Brisa Deneumostier
October 7, 2025 | 4-Nights
Pink River Dolphin Research Voyage with Dr. Joanna Alfaro
November 18, 2025 | 4-Nights
The Enchanting Amazon, a Wildlife Photography Adventure with Photographer Walter Wust
"In launching these three special interest departures with renowned experts who share our passion for protecting this vital ecosystem, our aim at Delfin Amazon Cruises is to not only provide our guests with unforgettable experiences but to inspire a greater appreciation for its beauty and significance," shares Aldo Macchiavello, CEO of Delfin Amazon Cruises.
The fully refurbished Delfin I boasts oversized suites with newly remodeled bathrooms and private panoramic terraces, two offering a private whirlpool for the ultimate treat. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow nature to be part of the natural suite décor, and cabin service 3 times a day will ensure you the most personalized experience. Exterior design changes include an enclosed, air-conditioned observation deck and observatory balconies. On the top deck, guests will find a lounge area, bar, and entertainment center, perfect places to relax while enjoying stargazing at one of the most pristine skies in the world and seeing the jungle unfold.
The Delfin III offers 22 suites with the highest comfort levels for up to 44 passengers, making it the largest cruise in its fleet. While on board, guests can enjoy several amenities from the top observation deck, including spacious indoor and outdoor lounge areas, a sundeck with a plunge pool, a spa and gym, and a bar. Located on the upper deck, guests will experience five-star, farm-to-table dining services from Delfin's local garden, blending Peruvian history with contemporary dishes. In addition to the unique programming of these special departures, guests will experience Delfin's daily excursions to explore deeper into the Amazon rainforest, led by their talented and experienced team of naturalists and interpretive Amazon River guides. Some guests will even discover they're joined by Delfin co-founder Lissy Urteaga, who often joins departures and enjoys engaging and sharing her knowledge. By land, guests can join trail walks and community visits or explore the river's small creeks, tributaries, and lagoons by skiff, kayak, or paddleboard.
September 23, 2025 | Wellness Voyage with Brisa Deneumostier
Embark on a transformative wellness retreat aboard the Delfin cruise, where a unique culinary journey awaits. Savor dishes crafted by a wellness chef highlighting Peru's rich biodiversity with fresh, local Amazonian ingredients and superfoods that nourish both body and soul. As guests journey through the heart of the rainforest, they will immerse themselves in mindful practices, including yoga, Qigong, Amazonian natural medicine, self-discovery, and the healing rhythms of nature, returning home with renewed clarity and balance. The goal is to experience a deeper connection with the sounds, colors and scents of the forest, recognizing oneself as part of this living ecosystem and cultivating a sense of calm while strengthening a connection to both the natural world and one's inner self.
Leading this wellness journey is Brisa Deneumostier. She brings 30 years of experience as a coach and facilitator of mindfulness and compassion meditation at Banyantogether.com, where she guides individual and group processes. In 2010, she co-founded Mindfulness Perú, an organization that integrates mindfulness, heart qualities, Andean spirituality, and connection with nature. They offer workshops, retreats, and talks aimed at promoting overall well-being. Brisa currently lives in the Sacred Valley, designing culinary journeys and transformative wellness experiences that foster care and a deep connection with the present life, both within oneself and in all things. Trained as a chef at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), her career took her around the world, exploring traditional cuisines and medicines and cooking in monasteries, fine-dining restaurants, and spas.
October 7, 2025 | Pink River Dolphin Research Voyage with Dr. Joanna Alfaro
To raise awareness and support critical research for the endangered pink river dolphin, Delfin Amazon Cruises has announced a special four-day voyage on its Delfin III with conservation specialist Dr. Joanna Alfaro, departing October 7. The pink river dolphin, classified as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), faces a critical threat. These rare creatures, found only in the freshwater rivers of the Amazon near Iquitos, Peru, are known for their social nature, friendliness, and high intelligence. However, their existence is severely threatened by habitat destruction due to logging and pollution. The construction of hydroelectric dams, negative interactions with fisheries and miners, and using their meat as bait all contribute to their decline, making their conservation an urgent priority.
During the voyage, esteemed marine biologist Dr. Joanna Alfaro will share her ongoing research, which focuses on mitigating fishermen's unintentional catch of dolphins. This unique opportunity allows guests to participate as citizen scientists while gaining a deeper understanding of this fascinating species, learn how to spot and identify the two different types of dolphins, pink and gray, on the Amazon, and even participate in Dr. Alfaro's research firsthand. They will accompany her as she deploys seapods to collect and record the sounds of dolphins and to record temperatures in water where dolphins are spotted. Her current work on the pink river dolphins focuses on a project in the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve in Peru that involves CPODs (acoustic monitoring loggers) that, through the number and velocity of clicks, can give an idea of how dolphins use their habitat (where do they breed, where do they eat, at what times, etc.), and see if the presence of a device called 'Pinger' that emits sound reduce the presence of the dolphins. This is to look for alternatives and reduce the by-catch by local fishermen.
Dr. Alfaro, a distinguished researcher who earned her Ph.D. from the University of Exeter, has an impressive track record in Pink River Dolphin conservation. She has been recognized with numerous awards for her research, including the prestigious Whitley Award in 2012. Her collaborations with renowned marine conservation organizations such as WWF and Darwin Research and her leadership of the non-profit Pro Delphinus demonstrate her commitment to conserving threatened and endangered marine fauna in Peru. Her expertise and dedication make her a valuable resource for anyone with a special interest in river dolphins and Amazonian aquatic animals.
November 18, 2025 | Exploring the Enchanting Amazon: A Wildlife Photography Adventure with Walter Wust
This 5-day, 4-night departure embarks on a journey of discovery, inspiration, and conservation through the Amazon rainforest, led by its esteemed host, Walter Wust. From its geological origins to its astonishing biodiversity, passengers will be immersed in the wonders of the Amazon's remarkable ecosystem, uncovering its secrets and capturing its beauty through the camera lens. One will capture the majesty of the Amazon and appreciate the importance of preserving its fragile ecosystem. For this special departure, Walter Wust will host passengers as they navigate the flooded forests of the Amazon, walking and sailing with their senses on high alert, ready to discover the magic of its sounds, scents, and shapes. From the towering trees to the serene lakes, every moment will be an opportunity to marvel at nature's intricacies. Traversing these lush landscapes adorned with giant trees and charming lakes, passengers will encounter a myriad of creatures, from tiny flowers and insects to magnificent birds. They'll witness the breathtaking splendor of its sunsets, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a backdrop worthy of admiration and awe.
Walter Wust's journey into nature and photography spans over thirty years. He has led programs to assess biological diversity along the coast and in the Andes and Amazon of Peru. Trained as a forest engineer, journalist, editor, and professional photographer, his dedication to environmental conservation and exploration has earned him widespread acclaim. He is regarded as Peru's most prolific editor in ecological matters, with over 600 publications, including books, guides, and encyclopedias. Drawing upon his vast experience as a nature and wildlife photographer, Walter Wust will share invaluable tips and basic principles of Amazon wildlife photography. Whether they're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, there's something for everyone to learn as they capture the essence of the Amazon's biodiversity through their lens.
In addition to Delfin's regular scheduled excursions, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy:
Wildlife Spotting Excursions: Embark on small boat excursions along the Amazon's tributaries and oxbow lakes, where they'll have the chance to spot an array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, river dolphins, and an abundance of bird species.
Sunset Photography Sessions: Capture the mesmerizing beauty of the Amazonian sunset as it paints the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. With guidance from Walter Wust, learn techniques for capturing stunning sunset shots that highlight the natural splendor of the rainforest.
Birdwatching Expeditions: Join expert birdwatching guides to seek out some of the Amazon's most spectacular avian inhabitants. From colorful macaws and toucans to elusive herons and kingfishers, the Amazon is a birdwatcher's paradise, offering endless opportunities for observation and photography.
Photography Workshops: Take part in interactive photography workshops led by Walter Wust, where you'll receive tips and guidance on capturing the unique beauty of Amazonian wildlife and landscapes. Lessons in composition, lighting, and camera settings will elevate one's photography skills to the next level.
Lectures: Hosted Q&A lectures by Walter H. Wust about wildlife photography and his experience.
Rates for Delfin III begin at $3,700 per person for double occupancy for the 3-night special departures and $4,900 for the 4-night special departures. Rates include meals, excursions, equipment, entrance fees to Pacaya Samiria Nature Reserve, and transfers to/from Iquitos on recommended flights.
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About Delfin Amazon Cruises:
Delfin Amazon Cruises was launched in early 2006 by its founder and CEO, Aldo Macchiavello. The company is the culmination of a dream shared with his wife, Lissy Urteaga – to run a boutique travel business that should showcase the natural beauty of their country, Peru. Delfin Amazon Cruises sets the highest standards for impeccable 5-star hospitality, authentic Peruvian design, and superb local cuisine. The Delfin I, II, and III effortlessly combine comfort and grace with the breathtaking wilderness setting of the Amazon. Each vessel thrives in harmony with nature and their panoramic suites and terraces offer guests a special “non-cruise” atmosphere with the opportunity to explore one of the world's most pristine environments. Deep in the Peruvian Amazon, the boutique luxury vessels take guests on three and four-night itineraries into one of the world's largest protected flooded forests, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Experienced naturalist guides and experts showcase the immense biodiversity of the area with excursions and activities that include visits to local villages, kayaking, swimming near pink river dolphins, fishing, daytime hiking, and night safaris.
For more information:
Alexandra Avila
REYA Communications
