- andBeyond are expanding their South American portfolio, launching a river expedition yacht to be based in the Peruvian Amazon.
- The andBeyond Amazon Explorer is due to set sail on September 29, 2026.
- The ship will carry 32 guests and will focus on exciting excursions to explore the river and rainforest.
The luxury safari and travel company andBeyond are expanding their South American portfolio, introducing a new river expedition yacht that will be based in the Peruvian Amazon. The ship is currently under construction at the SIMA shipyard in Iquitos, where it will soon be operating from.
The andBeyond Amazon Explorer is due to set sail on September 29, 2026. Guests can choose between a selection of three- and four-night itineraries, or a full seven-night itinerary. The ship promises a variety of cultural excursions, luxury suites, plenty of amenities and the chance to spot incredible wildlife.
Cabins
The small ship will carry only 32 guests, ensuring less environmental disruption when sailing, as well as more intimate guides and experiences. There are just 12 luxury suites onboard, in addition to two superior suites and one deluxe suite. There is a maximum of 2 guests per suite, however, 4 suites adjoin for family and friends, meaning groups travelling together can create a connecting private space.
The suites will range from 355 to 860 square feet and include stunning riverside views, an ensuite bathroom with a double vanity and a personal coffee station. The largest suite on the Yacht, the Deluxe Suite, has its own sitting area and a private balcony, accessed through large river-facing windows.
Amenities
The spacious design of andBeyond Amazon Explorer has plenty of things to do, despite the small size of the ship. Guests can relax in the River Retreat, which has a pool deck and lounge. There’s also a spa and a gym onboard, with views overlooking the river.
The Amazon-inspired Pisco bar is the main social hub onboard, perfect for meeting fellow guests and sipping on a pisco sours. There’s also a Signature Shop onboard, selling premium items that have a connection to the region.
Itineraries and Excursions
In the low water season (July to October) guests can embark on a loop of the river, from Nauta and back, which includes stops at San Jose de Paranapura Village and Clavero Lake, a beautiful blackwater oxbow lake. In high water season, guests will do the loop to Iquitos and back, with stops at the El Dorado Lake and the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Throughout the journey, there’ll be opportunities to spot stunning wildlife, including various monkeys, turtles, and rare pink dolphins.
All excursions will be focused on exploring the river with sustainable tourism in mind. Expert guides will help guests to explore the river and take them deeper into the rainforest. All excursions are included in the rate, and feature guided walks, skiff experiences, kayaking and community visits.
Wildlife spotting will be a highlight of the cruise. Although guests should keep their eyes peeled throughout the day for sloths and piranha, guides will also take passengers on an exhilarating night exploration to spot the Amazon’s strangest and rarest nocturnal animals, including bats, birds, frogs, snakes and caimans.
Before each major expedition, guests can head to the yacht’s Explorer Centre to be briefed by guides. It’s a great place to listen to informative talks about the area and engage in discussions about each destination along the river.
There are also many incredible cultural excursions on offer, including local community visits, trips to the Nauta food market, lessons from local curanderos (healers) and talks from a local Shaman, who will give a spiritual cleansing demonstration.
