Food & Beverage
Dining aboard an Aqua Expedition cruise is both elegant and exciting, with world-class cuisine served in beautifully appointed dining rooms, making the most of the beautiful passing scenery. The kitchens featured on Aqua Amazon and Aria Amazon are led under the guidance of one of Latin America’s most acclaimed young chefs, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, and fresh Amazonian-inspired dishes are served with fine china and crystal glassware.
Aqua Mekong serves food crafted under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef, David Thompson, who is internationally celebrated for his skilfully executed Thai cuisine. With dishes drawing inspiration from the heavenly flavours and fresh produce of Vietnam, the finest recipes of Khmer and Vietnamese river cultures are brought to life in a stunning dining room, designed to maximise views of the breathtaking surroundings.
Relaxation & Education
The relaxing facilities and amenities offered by Aqua Expeditions provide comforts of the same standard as a luxury hotel. All ships boast a fantastic observation deck, becoming the heart of the vessel’s social atmosphere, were guests can relax as the wonderful scenery changes before their eyes. For those seeking a respite from the sun, the ships all also feature a sumptuous indoor lounge, where lectures from expert local guides and educational discussions are held to shed further light on the destinations and cultures visited.
For those seeking to keep rejuvenated in their leisure time, Aria Amazon boasts its own work out area with a treadmill and stationary bicycle, boasting inspiring views from floor-to-ceiling windows, along with a Jacuzzi. Aqua Mekong boasts a roof-top infinity-edge plunge pool, perfectly poised to soak up the unfurling vistas, while the open-air cinema and spa treatment room offers the chance for a spot of downtime or a little extra indulgence.
Shopping
Each ship offers its own on-board shopping boutique, bringing a thoughtfully selected collection of artisanal items, handicrafts and souvenirs for guests to browse and purchase. On board the Aqua Amazon and Aria Amazon, guests will be able to consider the ‘Amazon-proof’ Enigma timepiece, designed by Gianni Bulgari, exclusively for the launch of Aria Amazon. Waterproof up to three-hundred feet, the watch and its accompanying collection of diamond and 14-carat gold jewellery pieces are on display among Peruvian treasures, and the proceeds will be passed on to support local communities.
Shore Excursions
The Amazon River
Itineraries are available aboard the Aqua Amazon and Aria Amazon ranging from three to seven nights in length, branching out to traverse the waterways of the Ucayali, Yanallpa, Puinahua, Pacaya, Dorado and Marañon rivers. Showcasing the unique wildlife and stunning natural beauty of this mighty river, embark on kayaking and biking excursions, where you will marvel at the monkeys and birds scampering overhead. Delve deeper into the forests and be greeted by the infamous pink dolphins frolicking below or visit rescued manatees at the Amazon’s origin. A jungle walk among the colourful reptiles and amphibians or a riverside picnic makes for a delightful morning, while the more adventurous types will be thrilled with canoeing and kayaking in the lakes and fishing for notorious piranhas.
The Mekong River
Itineraries are available at seven, four or three nights in length aboard the luxurious Aqua Mekong. After embarking at My Tho Dock, venture along the intriguing waters of this fascinating river, where you will discover timeless cultural wonders along the banks. Meet the local craftspeople and see them at work at silversmith villages and mesmerising silk weaving workshops, or taste tropical fruits at the market places. Head up the mountains to visit serene Buddhist temples and visit isolated communities, where daily life has been untouched by modern times, before sipping sundowners as an evening Khmer Apsara dance performance entertains for the evening. From trying your hand at traditional pot making to visiting the largest bird sanctuary in Southeast Asia, itineraries along the Mekong reveal a myriad of unique experiences.