Photo by: David Vargas
The Delfin II, chartered by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, is one of the most innovative and sustainable ships in the Amazon. She is the first to host a full fleet of kayaks, and her authenticity and cultural awareness reflect the Peruvian Amazon.
The Delfin II is an exclusive home base for Amazon River cruising. This luxury, 28-guest riverboat combines comfort and grace effortlessly with the wilderness of the Amazon. Expect world-class hospitality, fine dining and great company aboard. As much of the river as on it and locally built, Delfin II’s iron exterior is clad in tropical hardwoods and her interior gleams with wood floors and lacquered palm ceilings. Wood stairs float between decks and lazily turning ceiling fans add the right tropical notes, while the air- conditioning invisibly cools and dehumidifies.
Note that for all of AdventureSmith’s Delfin II offerings, the ship is chartered by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, and the cabin categories and ship amenities are slightly different than those of her owner, Delfin Amazon Cruises. This version of Delfin II reflects her charter configuration.
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Delfin II riverboat review includes a detailed description including deck plans. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Amazon (including sister ships Delfin I & Delfin III — read our Delfin Amazon Review written by our specialists). Please read our Delfin II review below, then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Delfin II with other small luxury cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises.
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AdventureSmith founder and president Todd Smith was one of the first people to see the Delfin II under construction in the busy port of Iquitos in 2009. Her hull had just been built and huge steel deck and wall plates were beginning to form cabins on the upper decks. He was amazed at the resourcefulness and ingenuity that went in to building what has become one of the finest ships built in this remote port city. A huge palapa, perhaps 50 feet wide and 150 feet long, covered the work site to protect it from weather because Aldo Machiavello, the owner of Delfin Amazon Cruises, learned quickly that if it rained, which it frequently does in Iquitos, the workers would simply go home. Today, the Delfin II remains one of the most innovative and sustainable ships in the Amazon and is the first with a full fleet of kayaks for every guest to enjoy.
Social spaces aboard Delfin II include a beautifully styled Dining Room and an enclosed Lecture Room on the Upper Deck. The Lecture Room is equipped with a full set of media equipment and print materials so you can learn more about the wonderful Peruvian Amazon. During leisure moments, the Lecture Room may be enjoyed as a lounge, complete with computers for picture sharing, handmade game tables and air conditioning. This lovely space has been warmly designed and features artwork from Peru’s leading contemporary artists.
To complement your daily rainforest excursions, the Delfin II offers an exercise space and an onboard wellness specialist and spa room. Whether you enjoy aerobic exercises or cardio, the onboard Gym resources are available at your disposal. Better yet, the floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to never miss a second of the vibrant jungle scenery outside.
On the third deck, the casual yet comfortable environment encourages relaxation between the morning and night’s adventures and activities. Kick back in the open air lounge’s large soft sofas while and watch the river go by. Delfin II’s bartender will always be ready with a choice of international and local liquors for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail. Coffee and tea are always available.
Located on the second deck, the dining room on the Delfin II offers an ambiance created by glowing candlelight, sparkling china and elegant crystal ware. Memorable goes hand in hand with a Delfin experience. Peruvian cuisine is considered one of the world’s finest and reflects the country’s intrinsic cultural diversity.
Delfin II’s dedicated staff pride themselves on carefully preparing contemporary Creole plates and offer exceptional service for your ultimate indulgence. The Amazon’s wild choices of fresh ingredients and the gentle blend of worldly immigrant traditions will enchant your taste buds. Handmade plateware, locally made table decorations changing from meal to meal and instrumental music performed by the staff create the ambiance to make each meal an unforgettable experience.
The Delfin II is equipped with two aluminum skiff boats, each with capacity for 10 guests, to enable up-close exploration of the surrounding jungle and its estuaries. A full fleet of of double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards offers opportunities to paddle while taking in the sights and sounds of one of the largest flooded protected areas in the world.
Each of the 10 Guest Suites measures 210 square feet and features extra large windows to enable spectacular views. Most suites have two twin beds that can convert to a king. Four of the suites interconnect to cater to families. Each includes a closet, easy chair and desk.
Each of the 4 spacious Amazon Suites (#7, 8, 15, 16) measure 230 square feet, are located at the front of the vessel and are outfitted with 180° panoramic windows. The Amazon Suites on the Main Deck feature two twin beds that can be converted to a king. Upper Deck Amazon Suites have king beds only.
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Hear from two AdventureSmith experts about their time sailing aboard the Delfin riverboat fleet in the Amazon. Get insight on which ship is right for you and their favorite experiences aboard.
There are more Amazon cruises and lodges than ever, and if you are confused by all the options we are here to help. Compare Amazon trips throughout Ecuador, Peru and Brazil using this Amazon guide.
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