What ship travels to the Amazon?
Travel aboard the riverboat Delfin II which accommodates 28 guests in 14 outside suites. Delfin II was built in 2009.
When does Lindblad Expeditions travel to the Amazon?
This expedition is offered weekly throughout the year.
What are the Delfin II’s amenities?
- On board public areas
Outdoor areas include the well-designed, comfortable Top Deck, bar, and cool wooden-slat hammocks. There is a small reference Library and the Bridge, where you are welcome to meet the captain and officers. - Air-conditioning
Suites, suite hallways, and the dining room are fully air-conditioned. - Windows
There are grand view windows in the dining room and suites. - Laundry
Laundry is available at an additional charge. There is no dry cleaning. - Telephone
There is a satellite phone in case of emergency. Due to the remoteness of the Amazon, there is no fax or Internet service. - Elevator
There is no elevator aboard Delfin II. - Smoking
For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
What are the suite amenities?
- Air-conditioning
Each suite has its own thermostat, allowing you to control the air conditioning in your suite. - Suites
Elegant, air-conditioned guest suites on the main and upper decks all offer exceptional vistas. Each spacious suite has a minimalist décor with a luxurious overtone. Most suites have two twin beds, which can convert to a king. Some suites can be connected for families traveling together. Each includes a large view window, a closet, easy chair, and desk. Bathroom includes a large shower with separate toilet and sink area. - Master suites
The master suites feature all of the amenities listed above plus oversized windows which provide incredible 90 degree views. The master suites on the main deck feature two twin beds which can convert to a king, and upper deck master Suites have king beds only. - Are there any connecting suites?
Cabins 4 & 6 and cabins 3 & 5 are connecting cabins. - Are triples allowed on Delfin II?
Triples are allowed but due to the size of the vessel are limited to one per departure. The third person must be a child under 15 as the bed is a small foldaway bed. - Shower amenities
Enjoy complimentary organic sun block with insect repellent, body lotion, body wash, soap, shampoo and conditioner in your suite. All products are 100% biodegradable. If you choose to bring your own shampoo and/or conditioner, we recommend that you bring biodegradable products. - Hair dryers
Hair dryers are available upon request. - Electrical appliances
In each suite there is an outlet for 110v (U.S. standard) and 220v (two round prong—European). - Valuables
While our ships are not equipped with safety deposit boxes in the cabins, most have small locking drawers with a key where you can keep your valuables. As our vessel safes are quite small, our policy is that we cannot accept custody or responsibility for guests’ valuables while on board.
What is the food like aboard Delfin II?
Every ingredient used by Delfin II’s chef is sourced from the rain forest, except olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Juices are squeezed fresh every morning from rain forest fruits; and homemade chocolates are placed on your pillow each evening. The Delfin II chef, trained in Lima’s five-star restaurants, serves meals that are elegantly presented and meant to be savored. Full buffet breakfasts, served lunches and dinners in an open, single-seating dining environment.
If you have special dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance and we will accommodate you. Unfortunately, we cannot provide kosher meals but can provide vegetarian meals.
Do I need to dress up for dinner?
Throughout your expedition, there is no need for formal clothing, unless you’re inspired to do so. The onboard atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and so is the dress code.
Are snacks available during the day and in between meals?
Coffee and soft drinks are available throughout the day as are light snacks.
Is alcohol available on the ship?
Yes, alcohol, considered a personal item, is available for purchase on board.
How will I explore the Amazon?
Skiffs
Delfin II carries four skiffs so that you can explore up close with comfort and ease. Each skiff carries between 8 to 10 guests plus 1 naturalist guide. Skiffs have individual seat cushions with back support and plenty of legroom. Rain ponchos are kept handy in the skiffs. Rubber boots are provided before an excursion if deemed necessary. Further, on the day we explore the interior lake on the reserve, guests may swim directly from the skiffs using the convenient swim ladder, weather permitting.
Kayaks
Kayaking provides one of the best means for personal exploration. Delfin II is outfitted with a fleet of kayaks for everyone who wants to participate. They are very stable and easy to master for novices and experts alike. Lessons and assistance will be offered for newcomers to the sport, so all interested parties may join in this activity. There is something special about being alone, or with a partner in our double kayak, paddling along a remote coastline.
What activities are available during the voyage?
Skiff rides exploring the various tributaries and waterways, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming in a lagoon, visiting local communities.
What wildlife is typically seen?
Skiff rides exploring the various tributaries and waterways, kayaking, hikes/walks, wildlife viewing from the ship, swimming in a lagoon, visiting local communities.
When does the boat travel from location to location?
The ship typically sails at night. The distances are not far between stops.
How do we get to shore from the ship?
The skiffs are used for all landings. Rubber boots are provided when landings are muddy or wet.
What can you tell me about the expedition staff on board?
Lindblad’s Amazon staff is made up of excellent guides who grew up in the local communities we are exploring. They are engaging, personable experts who have an intimate knowledge about the rainforest, wildlife, and lore of the Amazon. They take great pride in sharing their insider’s view. As seasoned naturalists they can identify birds as they flit by and spot sloths and monkeys in the treetops as well as caimans and pink dolphins along the river.
How many Amazon guides are on the voyage?
There are three to four local guides plus one expedition leader. The guides were born and raised in the area.
Will there be talks or presentations on board?
Your expedition team is key to your experience. They not only accompany all your explorations off the boat, they also give talks on board. Naturalists will share their knowledge and add insight to all you see and do. Some staff with National Geographic photography certification will share their images and offer critiques to those who are interested in receiving feedback.
What is Recap?
This is a Lindblad Expeditions tradition. Recaps are generally held each evening on the top deck prior to dinner and include informal talks by the staff and a lively review of the day’s events involving both staff and guests. At the conclusion of Recap, your expedition leader will review the activity options for the next day.
Is English spoken on board?
Yes, everyone on our expedition team speaks English. Some are multi-lingual as well.
Is there a gym or exercise equipment on board?
There is no gym but there are two exercise bicycles on the aft deck.
Is there a spa on board and what treatments are offered?
Though there is not a spa, on the top deck there is a secluded area where you can have a relaxing massage with a licensed therapist and your choice of aromatherapy oils.
Can I bring my children or grandchildren to the Amazon?
Children are welcome on our Amazon expedition. Lindblad believes sharing an expedition with your kids or grandkids is a life-enhancing experience. Take $500 off the double occupancy rate for each person under 18.
What are the requirements of children under age 18 traveling with one parent/or legal guardian?
A minor consent form must be signed by the parents or parent not traveling with the child. It is also suggested that the legal guardian of the child sign and have notarized a letter of consent to travel with their knowledge.
Can my family and friends contact me in case of an emergency at home?
Prior to your departure date, we will provide you with contact information on how you can be reached.
Is there Internet on board?
Due to the remoteness of the Amazon, there is no Internet service.
Are vaccinations required?
The Center for Disease Control recommends malaria prophylaxis and yellow fever vaccination for travel to the Peruvian Amazon. The CDC recommends that the routine vaccines should be up to date: influenza, chickenpox (or varicella), polio, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR vaccine), diphtheria/ tetanus/pertussis (DTP vaccine). The Center for Disease Control also recommends using insect repellent (bug spray) with 30 – 50% DEET to avoid contracting mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue fever.
Is a medical form necessary?
No medical form is necessary.
Will I need Dramamine or seasickness patches?
It is unlikely you will need anything because conditions on the river are quite calm. But if you are susceptible to motion discomfort, you may want to bring some preventative medication; please check with your personal physician for recommendations.
Do I need a valid passport?
Yes, you will need a passport that is valid for up to 6 months after the completion of your expedition.
Is a visa necessary?
If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you do not need a visa.
How will I pay my bill for personal items on board?
Travelers checks, U.S. dollars, American Express, MasterCard, and VISA are accepted to settle accounts on board. The official currency on board is the U.S. dollar. We are unable to cash personal checks or travelers checks for cash on board.
Are gratuities included?
All gratuities ashore are included in your expedition cost. Gratuities to crew aboard ship are at your own discretion. If you wish to leave a gratuity, as a tipping guideline we recommend $180 per guest per week aboard the ship. The gratuities will be divided among the naturalist guides and crew members on board.
How much cash should we bring per person?
That’s a personal choice. You may use a credit card at the hotel and to settle your shipboard account. The currency of Peru is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol. If you plan to purchase any handicrafts in the small communities we visit, you will need Peruvian Nuevo Soles in small denominations.
What are the differences between the high water and low water seasons in the Amazon?
The Amazon rain forest is lush and green because of the abundance of rain it receives (12 feet on average per year). Although this part of Peru sees about 200 rainy days a year, the weather does not interfere with activities. Wildlife viewings are virtually the same during both seasons.
There are two seasons in the Amazon:
- High water (December-May) Temperatures are usually 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime and 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening. Every river, creek, and lake is navigable and the forest is often flooded, leaving very few areas to walk and hike in the jungle.
- Low water (June–November) Temperatures are usually 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit in the daytime and 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening. More trails and jungle paths are accessible, but smaller rivers and tributaries are not reachable by skiff.
Lindblad Expeditions often refers to the value of flexible schedules. What does this mean to me?
Often, the most memorable events are those that are unplanned. That’s why every Lindblad-National Geographic itinerary has flexibility built into the schedule. When we’re out exploring, time is left open for unplanned event. So, if we happen to encounter a troop of howler monkeys, for example, we’ll have the time to stop and watch rather than having to rush off somewhere else.
Is this expedition physically challenging?
You should be in general good health and able to walk short distances unassisted.
Are there short and long hikes?
Yes, your expedition team always offers walks of varied lengths for different fitness levels and interests. Naturalist-guided walking and hiking options will be offered regularly throughout your expedition, as conditions allow. Shorter walks will always be offered.
Would hiking sticks be helpful or just get in the way? Are they even permitted?
Hiking sticks are permitted and could be helpful.
Will there be kayaking opportunities?
Yes, you will have opportunities for personal, eye-level views from a kayak during your expedition.
Can I visit the ship’s bridge?
Yes, guests are welcome to visit the bridge to meet our officers and captain.
What is included in my expedition cost?
Expedition costs are all-inclusive:
- All ship and hotel accommodations
- All meals aboard ship and most meals ashore except when an itinerary provides an “at your leisure” morning, afternoon, or evening. All non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship.
- Tips, taxes, port charges, and service charges (gratuities to ship’s crew are at your own discretion)
- All shore excursions and sightseeing, entrance fees, special access permits.
- Transfers to and from group flights
- Use of kayaks
- Services of a ship’s medic
- Services of our Expedition Team
- International airfare is always shown as a separate cost since many of our travelers prefer to use frequent flyer miles.
There are never hidden charges, like port charges. Of course, you’ll want to check carefully the inclusions for the journey you’ve selected, but you can rest assured there will be nothing hidden. Activities and shore excursions are included in the cost of every Lindblad Expedition. We don’t want you to miss out on anything. Many cruise lines charge you extra, often hundreds of dollars, to see the sites that prompted you to book in the first place. With Lindblad, all activities and sightseeing are included-from guided hikes to kayaking. You’ll always have the freedom to pick and choose activities as your day unfolds: a long hike, a shorter walk, kayaking, or relaxing aboard ship. After all, these are not scheduled tours, these are expeditions. Everyone is different—every day is different.
Are airport transfers included?
Yes, if you arrive and depart on the group flight.
Will I be charged any departure tax at the airport?
No, you will not be charged any departure tax at the airport.
Is it possible to arrange extra hotel night reservations through Lindblad Expeditions?
Yes, we’ll be glad to assist you with arrangements in the cities of embarkation and disembarkation only.
What is the electricity at the Ramada Costa del Sol in Lima?
110V (US standard) and 220V (two round prong – European)
Are extension programs offered with my Amazon expedition?
Yes, your Amazon expedition can be extended with a journey to Machu Picchu & the Land of the Inca (7 days); or a Galápagos voyage (10 days); or an extension to Paracas & the Nasca Lines (3 days).
What kind of clothes do I need?
Our style is always informal. The relaxed atmosphere of every journey, a Lindblad-National Geographic hallmark, is something our travelers tell us they particularly enjoy. There is never a need for fancy clothing, so our recommendations on your travel wardrobe are all about comfort, practicality, and the conditions in the region you’re exploring. Ship to shore is our online store, which specializes in the kind of clothing, footwear and accessory items suited to expedition travel.
What footwear is necessary?
You will need comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for use both on board the ship and during shore excursions in towns. Most people find tennis shoes or sneakers suitable.