Manatee Amazon Explorer Cruise
The 28-guest, eco-friendly Manatee Amazon Explorer allows guests to experience unparalleled adventures in total comfort. Journey down freshwater rivers to encounter different Amazonian ecosystems and the biodiverse wildlife of the deep jungle.
The 4-, 5- and 8-day Amazon River cruises aboard the 28-guest Manatee Amazon Explorer offer incredible, active, eco-friendly journeys to the Amazon rainforest, with itineraries that include an impressive diversity in the most pristine areas of the Ecuadorian Amazon. The M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer allows guests to experience unparalleled adventures in total comfort with active off-ship adventures.
Journey down freshwater rivers, both whitewater and blackwater, and encounter different Amazonian ecosystems, including the possibility to observe fascinating animals such as pink river dolphins, manatees, caimans and piranhas, as well as hundreds of native bird and primate species while kayaking and walking in the rainforest. On 5- or 8-day itineraries, consider adding the option to glamp in a tent with cots.
The Manatee Amazon Explorer Cruise is a sustainable travel option in the Amazon as the vessel is certified by Smart Voyager and Rainforest Alliance, entities that ensure the ship meets rigorous environmental, social and security norms to decrease the negative impacts of tourism on the local environment and communities. The Manatee also delegates some proceeds from cruises to community conservation programs. The environmental focus of the Manatee Amazon Explorer Cruises ensures guests are immersed in the environment and cultures of the Amazon on this exciting Ecuador rainforest cruise. This vessel is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her modern feel and ideal size.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Amazon cruises and Amazon trips.
8-Day Friday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise Itinerary
This 8-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins on a Friday and operates round-trip from Quito, Ecuador, with a flight between Quito and Coca, Ecuador, and a motorized canoe transfer to/from the ship on either end of the trip. Activities are the same as the 8-day Monday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise, however the order is different.
The adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon. Reach the Manatee Amazon Cruise and be welcomed aboard. On the Manatee, join expert local naturalist guides, who will provide a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Afterwards, explore the cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape while she glides down the Napo River. After dinner, take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and experience its vivid biodiversity firsthand.
Travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, and take a canoe trip to Pañacocha Lake, which means “Piranha Lake” in the native Kichwa. This ecosystem flooded by black-waters and surrounding protected rainforest is home to primates and birds and is the perfect habitat for piranhas, paiches (one of the largest freshwater fishes in the world), the white caiman, and hundreds of other aquatic animals. Participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides and relax at a nearby campsite to enjoy an Amazon-style BBQ. After lunch, do some kayaking and swimming activities. Back on board the Manatee, enjoy the opportunity to attend a lecture and watch an educational documentary about the region.
In the morning, set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon: the parrot clay licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and attracts hundreds of colorful parrots, parakeets and amazon birds. Afterwards, visit a Kichwa Cultural Center to learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions and cuisine. Members of the local community teach about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River. Take the opportunity to support the community by purchasing handicrafts, local products and souvenirs. Before sunset, visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin. Bird-lovers will especially enjoy this outing.
Begin the day kayaking on the Indillama River towards Yasuní National Park. Kayaks are smooth and silent, providing the very best opportunity to observe wildlife. Canoes can also be used to travel in search of more wildlife. After an adventure-filled day, take advantage of the ship’s observation deck and experience a magical view under the stars. Those feeling energetic can choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle in search of nocturnal creatures.
Early in the morning, visit Yasuni National Park, a pristine region of the Ecuadorian Amazon, home to the legendary pink river dolphin. In this area, search for anacondas, river turtles, various primate species, as well as the colorful hoatzin, a unique bird known locally as the “stinky turkey.” In the afternoon, take a motorized canoe to a black-water lake, home to giant otters and the elusive manatee, and enjoy a pleasant hike in the riparian/gallery forest, with the chance to spot flocks of birds and marvel at the intricate organization of a colony of leaf-cutter ants.
Start today off by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, with the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community. Board the Manatee for lunch as she continues upstream. Participate in a cooking class with the expert chef and prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food. Try your hand at traditional handicrafting or enjoy onboard facilities, including the Rainforest Spa, the spectacular view from the Amazon Hot Tub, cocktails at the Bar and Lounge, and stargazing from the Observation Deck.
Relax and enjoy the morning before disembarking to explore the nearby forest. Discover a myriad of animals and plant species endemic to the Amazon basin. In the afternoon, visit a canopy tower built against a giant kapok tree and take in the view from the top while looming above the lush treetops that look down on the sheer vastness of the Amazon. In the evening, take a canoe onto the river to search for black caimans by flashlight.
This is where the adventure ends, Enjoy the final part of the return journey, then disembark the Manatee Amazon Cruise to take the motorized canoe 90 minutes back to Coca.
Included
Transportation to and from Coca airport and vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; all excursions; use of rain ponchos & rubber boots; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board.
Exclusions
Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($250 per person in 2026), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels and exclusive access to VIP Lounge in Coca city before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks; local community contribution ($80 per person); optional glamping excursion ($500 per person in 2026); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Starlink Wi-Fi; it may be purchased for the price of $56 for the entire duration of the cruise); insurance of any kind; personal expenses; other services not specified in the program. All prices are subject to change without notice.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 8-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Quito, Ecuador (UIO). Plan flights to arrive in Quito one day prior to embarkation day. Plan flights to depart Quito no earlier than 4:00pm. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The Manatee Amazon Cruise has a required flight between Quito and Coca on the first and final days of the itinerary. AdventureSmith arranges your flights to Coca (not included in cruise rate) after your booking has been made. Coca-Quito flight schedules vary, so check with AdventureSmith Explorations for details on your particular departure. There is a luggage weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) total for two pieces of checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) for one piece of carry-on baggage on the flights between Quito and Coca.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more active outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, skiff or canoe rides, birdwatching, indigenous community immersion, canopy observation, kayaking, cooking lessons and swimming opportunities.
Optional glamping (glamorous camping) is available for up to 8 passengers ($500 per person in 2026; minimum of 2 passengers) on 5- & 8-day itineraries. Spend an evening away from the ship without leaving the deluxe service. Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. A gourmet dinner and champagne greet you after an exciting nature walk. Later in the evening, a local guide tells stories about adventures and the way of life in the magical Amazon region. In the morning, go for a kayak excursion on the river and observe incredible wildlife before a camp breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.
Room Configuration
Solo travelers may book a cabin for single occupancy at the listed adult rate plus 50%. For triple occupancy, the third guest receives a 45% discount (adult rate) in a triple suite with an additional sliding bed.
Families & Children
The minimum recommended age is 6 years old. Children under 12 years old will receive a 50% discount (one child per suite).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
8-Day Monday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise Itinerary
This 8-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins on a Monday and operates round-trip from Quito, Ecuador, with a flight between Quito and Coca, Ecuador, and a motorized canoe transfer to/from the ship on either end of the trip. Activities are the same as the 8-day Friday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise, however the order is different.
The adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon. Reach the Manatee Amazon Cruise and be welcomed aboard. On the Manatee, join expert local naturalist guides, who will provide a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Afterwards, explore the cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape while she glides down the Napo River. After dinner, take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and experience its vivid biodiversity firsthand.
Early in the morning, visit Yasuni National Park, a pristine region of the Ecuadorian Amazon, home to the legendary pink river dolphin. In this area, search for anacondas, river turtles, various primate species, as well as the colorful hoatzin, a unique bird known locally as the “stinky turkey.” In the afternoon, take a motorized canoe to a black-water lake, home to giant otters and the elusive manatee, and enjoy a pleasant hike in the riparian/gallery forest, with the chance to spot flocks of birds and marvel at the intricate organization of a colony of leaf-cutter ants.
Start today off by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, with the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community. Board the Manatee for lunch as she continues upstream. Participate in a cooking class with the expert chef and prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food. Try your hand at traditional handicrafting or enjoy onboard facilities, including the Rainforest Spa, the spectacular view from the Amazon Hot Tub, cocktails at the Bar and Lounge, and stargazing from the Observation Deck.
Relax and enjoy the morning before disembarking to explore the nearby forest. Discover a myriad of animals and plant species endemic to the Amazon basin. In the afternoon, visit a canopy tower built against a giant kapok tree and take in the view from the top while looming above the lush treetops that look down on the sheer vastness of the Amazon. In the evening, take a canoe onto the river to search for black caimans by flashlight.
Begin the day kayaking on the Indillama River towards Yasuní National Park. Kayaks are smooth and silent, providing the very best opportunity to observe wildlife. Canoes can also be used to travel in search of more wildlife. After an adventure-filled day, take advantage of the ship’s observation deck and experience a magical view under the stars. Those feeling energetic can choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle in search of nocturnal creatures.
Travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, and take a canoe trip to Pañacocha Lake, which means “Piranha Lake” in the native Kichwa. This ecosystem flooded by black-waters and surrounding protected rainforest is home to primates and birds and is the perfect habitat for piranhas, paiches (one of the largest freshwater fishes in the world), the white caiman, and hundreds of other aquatic animals. Participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite to enjoy an Amazon-style BBQ. After lunch, do some kayaking and swimming activities. Back on board the Manatee, enjoy the opportunity to attend a lecture and watch an educational documentary about the region.
In the morning, set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon: the parrot clay licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and attracts hundreds of colorful parrots, parakeets and amazon birds. Afterwards, visit a Kichwa Cultural Center to learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions and cuisine. Members of the local community teach about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River. Take the opportunity to support the community by purchasing handicrafts, local products and souvenirs. Before sunset, visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin. Bird-lovers will especially enjoy this outing.
This is where the adventure ends, Enjoy the final part of the return journey, then disembark the Manatee Amazon Cruise to take the motorized canoe 90 minutes back to Coca.
Included
Transportation to and from Coca airport and vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; all excursions; use of rain ponchos & rubber boots; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board.
Exclusions
Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($250 per person in 2026), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels and exclusive access to VIP Lounge in Coca city before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks; local community contribution ($80 per person); optional glamping excursion ($500 per person in 2026); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Starlink Wi-Fi; it may be purchased for the price of $56 for the entire duration of the cruise); insurance of any kind; personal expenses; other services not specified in the program. All prices are subject to change without notice.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 8-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Quito, Ecuador (UIO). Plan flights to arrive in Quito one day prior to embarkation day. Plan flights to depart Quito no earlier than 4:00pm. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The Manatee Amazon Cruise has a required flight between Quito and Coca on the first and final day of the itinerary. AdventureSmith arranges your flights to Coca (not included in cruise rate) after your booking has been made. Coca-Quito flight schedules vary, so check with AdventureSmith Explorations for details on your particular departure. There is a luggage weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) total for two pieces of checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) for one piece of carry-on baggage on the flights between Quito and Coca.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more active outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, skiff or canoe rides, birdwatching, indigenous community immersion, canopy observation, kayaking, cooking lessons and swimming opportunities.
Optional glamping (glamorous camping) is available for up to 8 passengers ($500 per person in 2026; minimum of 2 passengers) on 5- & 8-day itineraries. Spend an evening away from the ship without leaving the deluxe service. Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. A gourmet dinner and champagne greet you after an exciting nature walk. Later in the evening, a local guide tells stories about adventures and the way of life in the magical Amazon region. In the morning, go for a kayak excursion on the river and observe incredible wildlife before a camp breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.
Room Configuration
Solo travelers may book a cabin for single occupancy at the listed adult rate plus 50%. For triple occupancy, the third guest receives a 45% discount (adult rate) in a triple suite with an additional sliding bed.
Families & Children
The minimum recommended age is 6 years old. Children under 12 years old will receive a 50% discount (one child per suite).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
5-Day Monday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise Itinerary
The 5-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins on a Monday and operates round-trip from Quito, Ecuador, with a flight between Quito and Coca, Ecuador, and a motorized canoe transfer to/from the ship on either end of the trip. This follows the same route as days 1-4 of the 8-Day Monday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise.
The adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon. Reach the Manatee Amazon Cruise and be welcomed aboard. On the Manatee, join expert local naturalist guides, who will provide a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Afterwards, explore the cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape while she glides down the Napo River. After dinner, take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and experience its vivid biodiversity firsthand.
Early in the morning, visit Yasuni National Park, a pristine region of the Ecuadorian Amazon, home to the legendary pink river dolphin. In this area, search for anacondas, river turtles, various primate species, as well as the colorful hoatzin, a unique bird known locally as the “stinky turkey.” In the afternoon, take a motorized canoe to a black-water lake, home to giant otters and the elusive manatee, and enjoy a pleasant hike in the riparian/gallery forest, with the chance to spot flocks of birds and marvel at the intricate organization of a colony of leaf-cutter ants.
Start today off by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, with the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community. Board the Manatee for lunch as she continues upstream. Participate in a cooking class with the expert chef and prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food. Try your hand at traditional handicrafting or enjoy onboard facilities, including the Rainforest Spa, the spectacular view from the Amazon Hot Tub, cocktails at the Bar and Lounge, and stargazing from the Observation Deck.
Relax and enjoy the morning before disembarking to explore the nearby forest. Discover a myriad of animals and plant species endemic to the Amazon basin. In the afternoon, visit a canopy tower built against a giant kapok tree and take in the view from the top while looming above the lush treetops that look down on the sheer vastness of the Amazon. In the evening, take a canoe onto the river to search for black caimans by flashlight.
This is where the adventure ends, Enjoy the final part of the return journey, then disembark the Manatee Amazon Cruise to take the motorized canoe 90 minutes back to Coca.
Included
Transportation to and from Coca airport and vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; all excursions; use of rain ponchos & rubber boots; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board.
Exclusions
Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($250 per person in 2026), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels and exclusive access to VIP Lounge in Coca city before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks; local community contribution ($70 per person); optional glamping excursion ($500 per person in 2026); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Starlink Wi-Fi; it may be purchased for the price of $40 for the entire duration of the cruise); insurance of any kind; personal expenses; other services not specified in the program. All prices are subject to change without notice.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 5-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Quito, Ecuador (UIO). Plan flights to arrive in Quito one day prior to embarkation day. Plan flights to depart Quito no earlier than 4:00pm. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The Manatee Amazon Cruise has a required flight between Quito and Coca on the first and final day of the itinerary. AdventureSmith arranges your flights to Coca (not included in cruise rate) after your booking has been made. Coca-Quito flight schedules vary, so check with AdventureSmith Explorations for details on your particular departure. There is a luggage weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) total for two pieces of checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) for one piece of carry-on baggage on the flights between Quito and Coca.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more active outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, skiff or canoe rides, birdwatching, indigenous community immersion, canopy observation, kayaking, cooking lessons and swimming opportunities.
Optional glamping (glamorous camping) is available for up to 8 passengers ($500 per person in 2026; minimum of 2 passengers) on 5- & 8-day itineraries. Spend an evening away from the ship without leaving the deluxe service. Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. A gourmet dinner and champagne greet you after an exciting nature walk. Later in the evening, a local guide tells stories about adventures and the way of life in the magical Amazon region. In the morning, go for a kayak excursion on the river and observe incredible wildlife before a camp breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.
Room Configuration
Solo travelers may book a cabin for single occupancy at the listed adult rate plus 50%. For triple occupancy, the third guest receives a 45% discount (adult rate) in a triple suite with an additional sliding bed.
Families & Children
The minimum recommended age is 6 years old. Children under 12 years old will receive a 50% discount (one child per suite).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
4-Day Friday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise Itinerary
The 4-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins on Friday and operates round-trip from Quito, Ecuador, with a flight between Quito and Coca, Ecuador, and a motorized canoe transfer to/from the ship on either end of the trip. This follows days 1-3 of the 8-Day Friday Start Manatee Amazon Cruise.
The adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, transfer to the dock and board a motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon. Reach the Manatee Amazon Cruise and be welcomed aboard. On the Manatee, join expert local naturalist guides, who will provide a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon. Afterwards, explore the cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape while she glides down the Napo River. After dinner, take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and experience its vivid biodiversity firsthand.
Travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, and take a canoe trip to Pañacocha Lake, which means “Piranha Lake” in the native Kichwa. This ecosystem flooded by black-waters and surrounding protected rainforest is home to primates and birds and is the perfect habitat for piranhas, paiches (one of the largest freshwater fishes in the world), the white caiman, and hundreds of other aquatic animals. Participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides and relax at a nearby campsite to enjoy an Amazon-style BBQ. After lunch, do some kayaking and swimming activities. Back on board the Manatee, enjoy the opportunity to attend a lecture and watch an educational documentary about the region.
In the morning, set out on canoes to observe one of the most incredible sights on this side of the Western Amazon: the parrot clay licks. This unique place is rich in minerals and attracts hundreds of colorful parrots, parakeets and amazon birds. Afterwards, visit a Kichwa Cultural Center to learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions and cuisine. Members of the local community teach about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River. Take the opportunity to support the community by purchasing handicrafts, local products and souvenirs.
This is where the adventure ends, Enjoy the final part of the return journey, then disembark the Manatee Amazon Cruise to take the motorized canoe 90 minutes back to Coca.
Included
Transportation to and from Coca airport and vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; all excursions; use of rain ponchos & rubber boots; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board.
Exclusions
Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($250 per person in 2026), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels and exclusive access to VIP Lounge in Coca city before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks; local community contribution ($70 per person); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Starlink Wi-Fi; it may be purchased for the price of $28 for the entire duration of the cruise); insurance of any kind; personal expenses; other services not specified in the program. All prices are subject to change without notice.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The 4-day Manatee Amazon Cruise begins and ends in Quito, Ecuador (UIO). Plan flights to arrive in Quito one day prior to embarkation day. Plan flights to depart Quito no earlier than 4:00pm. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Internal Flights
The Manatee Amazon Cruise has a required flight between Quito and Coca on the first and final day of the itinerary. AdventureSmith arranges your flights to Coca (not included in cruise rate) after your booking has been made. Coca-Quito flight schedules vary, so check with AdventureSmith Explorations for details on your particular departure. There is a luggage weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kg) total for two pieces of checked luggage and 22 lbs (10 kg) for one piece of carry-on baggage on the flights between Quito and Coca.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more active outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, skiff or canoe rides, birdwatching, indigenous community immersion, canopy observation, kayaking, cooking lessons and swimming opportunities.
Room Configuration
Solo travelers may book a cabin for single occupancy at the listed adult rate plus 50%. For triple occupancy, the third guest receives a 45% discount (adult rate) in a triple suite with an additional sliding bed.
Families & Children
The minimum recommended age is 6 years old. Children under 12 years old will receive a 50% discount (one child per suite).
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The 28-guest Manatee Amazon Explorer is the ideal small ship to cruise Ecuador's Amazon in style and casual comfort. The floor-to-ceiling windows in every suite and air conditioning provide the perfect balance to experience the wilderness of the Amazon in comfort. Between the many terraces and top deck, the wildlife and scenery is never far on this riverboat.
Manatee Amazon Explorer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Manatee Amazon Explorer review includes a detailed description of the riverboat including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Amazon. Please read our Manatee Amazon Explorer review then contact our cruise experts to compare the Manatee Amazon Explorer with other small cruise ships and riverboats offering Amazon cruises, including private charter cruises.
Choose the Manatee Amazon Explorer cruise if you are seeking an affordable, active and comfortable riverboat option in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The Manatee Amazon Explorer, built in 2017, is new, clean and comfortable, exuding a true riverboat feel. With all the amenities of a lodge, including an experienced staff, comfortable rooms with great views, private baths and air conditioning, this riverboat is an excellent choice for exploring the unique, wildlife-filled Ecuadorian Amazon. The benefit of exploring the Amazon aboard the Manatee is her ability to navigate farther down river to a diversity of stops not available if visiting from a lodge. High-speed internet access is available onboard via Starlink for a nominal fee.
Safety & Sustainability Aboard Manatee Amazon Explorer
The vessel complies with both national and international navigation, as well as safety, security and environmental protection standards. Manatee Amazon Explorer is certified by Smart Voyager and the Rainforest Alliance, entities that guarantee the sustainability of her operations. The Manatee Amazon Explorer was purpose-built for river cruising in the Amazon and for having the smallest impact possible on the environment. The Manatee also works closely with the surrounding communities to ensure a healthy interaction for all. This sustainable tourism model is at the heart of the Manatee's operations.
Although expedition cruising by its very nature is characterized as adventurous, the safety of Manatee's staff and passengers is of paramount importance. The Manatee Amazon Explorer is fully equipped and maintained in order to handle the most challenging conditions and circumstances, and is operated by experienced and conscientious expedition staff and crew. The canoes used for daily shore landings are rugged and versatile and are operated responsibly by experienced personnel. On board you will be fully briefed on all pertinent safety issues and concerns, as well as the ship's environmental policy; passengers also receive appropriate and detailed briefings before each landing.
Common Areas Aboard Manatee Amazon Explorer
The Manatee offers multiple common areas that enable guests to spread out during the cruise. The lounge and bar offer a perfect spot to rest and reflect before the next adventure. The conference room includes a flat-screen television and comfortable seating, where naturalist guides give informative talks and briefings for the following day’s activities. Deck 2 shares a reading room and boutique while Deck 4 is ideal for catching the breeze and watching the jungle pass by on the observation deck with a hot tub.
The Manatee Amazon Explorer is also equipped with kayaks and a small fleet of motorized canoes. The canoes provide unlimited mobility and allow for the exploration of the most remote areas and inaccessible shores.
Dining Aboard Manatee Amazon Explorer
The Manatee Amazon Explorer boasts both interior and exterior dining areas, located on Deck 1 and Deck 3. Manatee's chefs offer a spectacular variety of both national and international dishes, as well as an excellent selection of beers and sparkling wines.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Manatee Amazon Explorer
The Manatee Amazon Explorer has the capacity to accommodate up to 28 passengers in suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. Each suite is equipped with air conditioning, closets, 24-hour electricity via 110-voltage outlets and switches, an in-suite sitting area, and a private bathroom with hot and cold water, hairdryer and toiletries including shampoo, conditioner and liquid soap.
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
The Manatee Amazon Explorer cruises Ecuador's Amazon in style and casual comfort. The vessel is certified by Smart Voyager and the Rainforest Alliance, entities that guarantee the sustainability of her operations.
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