Manatee Amazon Explorer

Enjoy the Ecuadorian Amazon aboard The Manatee Amazon cruise.

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Cruises

The Manatee Amazon Explorer’s flexibility as a comprehensive navigation adventure that takes visitors to many different visitor sites within the Ecuadorian Amazon Basin or jungle —visitor sites that you would forcibly not be able to visit if you stayed only in one place— is, quite clearly, one of the most notorious differences between visiting the Amazon Basin with us or choosing one of the many fine ecolodges in the area. That fact becomes even more attractive when taking into account that we work with first-rate guides, that the variety of excursions and itineraries we choose is ample and compelling, that our excellent service and professional savoir-faire creates a pampering, relaxing vacation for the most demanding guests, that we couple all our efforts with a heartfelt commitment to the communities and nature of the Amazon.

The Manatee Amazon Explorer is fully equipped and maintained in order to handle the most challenging conditions and circumstances, and is manned 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. Onboard you will be fully briefed on all pertinent safety issues and concerns, as well as our environmental policy; passengers also receive appropriate and detailed briefings before each landing.

DECKS AND CABINS:

FIRST DECK

Includes lobby, dining room, and crew quarters.

SECOND DECK

Where you’ll find the boutique and standard suites.

THIRD DECK

Features the bar, lounge, and deluxe suites.

OBSERVATION DECK

Where you’ll enjoy the outdoor hot tub, lounge, and extraordinary views.

TECHNICAL  SPECIFICATIONS

Built 2017
Port of embarkation Coca, Ecuador
Vessel´s Registry Ecuador
Type of vessel River Expedition Vessel
Length 121  feet / 37 m
Beam 30 feet / 8.5 m
Draft 0.75 meters
Gross Tonnage 214 tons
Cruising speed 12 knots
Electricity 110 / 220 volts
Engines Cummins x 2 / 350HP
Generators Cummins x 2 / 75 KVA
Water 10000 -liter water treatment plant
Safety GPS tracking by the Ecuadorian Navy, Radio communication with separate battery pack, satellite phone, life jackets, flares and signals, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in each cabin, automatic defibrillator on board.
Launch boats Two fiberglass ecologic canoes equipped with four-stroke low emission engines; constant radio communication with the main vessel. Total capacity 30 passengers.
Crew 10, including a cruise manager, English-speaking naturalist guides, 4 native guides, captain and crew members.
Accommodation 10 standard suites ( 2 triples) and 4 deluxe suites ( own Jacuzzi at Deluxe suites) . All with air conditioning  system, private balcony, ceiling to floor windows, hair dryer, safety box.
Suites Features Full sized beds, bathroom with shower, toilet, sink, cabinet, and a basket of toiletries, bathrobes. Hot water available  24-hours.
Social Areas Bar lounge/ conference room indoor. Dining Room. Outside Lounge with “al fresco” dining facilities. Sundeck with lazy chairs. Boutique, Outdoor Jacuzzi.

ITINERARIES

This is a journey that takes us into the endless heart of biodiversity, the Amazon Basin. Given the remote and pristine nature of this jungle, the very best way to explore it is by navigating down the Napo River on a carefully – designed vessel set to explore the Amazon in style.

The M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer allows our guests to experience unparalleled adventures in total comfort. Journey with us down freshwater rivers, both whitewater and black water, 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.

Cruise (Fri – Mon) – 4 days / 3 nights

Day 1: Friday

Quito – Coca – Napo River

Our adventure begins in the city of Quito, Capital of Ecuador. After taking a short 30- minute flight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, located in the Province of San Francisco de Orellana, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe to begin our journey down the river for approximately an hour and a half, taking in the first sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, we will reach the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer and receive our welcome aboard.

Once we have settled into the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides who will provide us with a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, after which passengers will have their first opportunity to discover the exciting features of our cruise ship: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and the observation deck that allows us to admire the changing rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River.

After dinner, we will plunge straight into the Amazon by going for a nighttime forest walk to observe the forest’s nocturnal activity and experience the thrill of the vivid noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.

Day 2: Saturday

Pañacocha Biological Corridor

We continue to travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, where we will take a canoe trip to experience the sights of this fascinating water reserve. Pañacocha Lake is an ecosystem flooded by blackwaters. Pañacocha means “Piranha Lake” in the native Quechua language. The surrounding protected Rainforest is home to 9 species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 fish species. This is the perfect habitat for Piranhas, the Water Monkey Fish (Arawana) and the White Caiman.

In this little piece of paradise, we will participate in nature walks led by our local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite where we will enjoy a delicious Amazon-style BBQ and refreshing beverages.

After lunch, we will do some kayaking, and the bravest among us will enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake! We promise it’s not as dangerous as it sounds!

Back on board the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer, our guests will have the opportunity to attend a lecture given by our concierge and watch an educational documentary about the region.

Day 3: Sunday

Parrots´Clay Licks – Amazonian Communities & Observation Tower

This morning, we will 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, every day.

Later, we will visit a Quechua Cultural Center, where we will learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach us about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River and we will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.

Before sunset, we will visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin and is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike will especially enjoy this outing.

Day 4: Monday

Return

This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of our return journey onboard and then disembark the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (a one-and-a-half-hour ride)

Cruise (Mon – Fri) – 5 days / 4 nights

Day : Monday

Our adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon, until we reach the Manatee Amazon Explorer and receive our welcome aboard. On the Manatee, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides, who will provide us with a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon; afterwards, guests will have the opportunity to explore our cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River.

After dinner, we will take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and vividly experience its biodiversity first-hand.

Day 2: Tuesday

HOME OF THE LEGENDARY PINK RIVER DOLPHIN AND THE SECOYA COMMUNITY

In the morning we will explore the lower part of the Napo River, where we will spot different bird species such as eagles, oropendolas and the celebrated woodpeckers. In the afternoon we will visit Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and home to the legendary pink dolphin. This is the perfect opportunity to participate in our pink dolphin conservation program, which we are involved in together with the Martinica community in the Cocaya area, providing a safe haven where these dolphins can live and feed without the risk of being hunted. The Secoyas people, a minority ancestral culture, live near Yasuni and will show us how to prepare traditional cassava bread during our visit.

Day 3: Wednesday

KICHWA FAMILY AND LIFE ONBOARD

We will begin the day by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, where we will have the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community about their lifestyle. We will then board the Manatee and participate in a cooking class with our expert chef, who will show us how to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian fare. Guests are also invited to try their hand at traditional handicrafting or to take in the magnificent Amazon environment from our open-air hot tub, enjoy cocktails at our Bar and Lounge, or delight in some nighttime stargazing from our Observation Deck. Our more active guests will have the opportunity to explore nature in this area by kayak.

Day 4: Thursday

Forest adventure & Observation Canopy Tower

Our passengers can relax and enjoy the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer during the morning and disembark to explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover a myriad of different animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin.

In the afternoon, we will visit a canopy tower, built against a giant Kapok tree. The perspective at the top of this observation tower is truly glorious, looming above the lush treetops and providing a view of the sheer vastness of the Amazon Basin.

In the evening, we will bravely venture into the river on a canoe to search for black caimans with the help of our flashlights.

Day 5: Friday

Return

This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of our return journey onboard and then disembark the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (a one-and-a-half-hour ride).

Cruise (Fri – Fri) – 8 days / 7 nights

Day 1: Friday

Quito – Coca – Napo River

Our adventure begins in the city of Quito, Capital of Ecuador. After taking a short 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazon city of Coca, located in the Province of San Francisco de Orellana, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe to begin our journey down the river for approximately an hour and a half, taking in the first sights and sounds of the Amazon. Soon, we will reach the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer and receive our welcome aboard.

Once we have settled into the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides who will provide us with a brief and informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon, after which passengers will have their first opportunity to discover the exciting features of our cruise ship: spacious social areas, comfortable suites, and the observation deck that allows us to admire the changing rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River.

After dinner, we will plunge straight into the Amazon by going for a night hike to observe the forest’s nocturnal activity and experience the thrill of the vivid noises and aromas that come from so much biodiversity.

Day 2: Saturday

Pañacocha Biological Corridor

We continue to travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, where we will take a canoe trip to experience the sights of this fascinating water reserve. Pañacocha Lake is an ecosystem flooded by blackwaters. Pañacocha means “Piranha Lake” in the native Quechua language. The surrounding protected Rainforest is home to 9 species of primates, 500 species of birds and more than 100 fish species. This is the perfect habitat for Piranhas, the Water Monkey Fish (Arawana) and the White Caiman.

In this little piece of paradise, we will participate in nature walks led by our local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite where we will enjoy a delicious Amazon-style BBQ and refreshing beverages.

After lunch, we will do some kayaking, and the bravest among us will enjoy a nice refreshing swim in the Piranha Lake! We promise it’s not as dangerous as it sounds!

Back on board the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer, our guests will have the opportunity to attend a lecture given by our concierge and watch an educational documentary about the region.

Day 3: Sunday

Parrots´Clay Licks – Amazonian Communities & Observatin Tower

This morning, we will 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, every day.

Later, we will visit a Quechua Cultural Center, where we will learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach us about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River and we will have the opportunity to support the local community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs.

Before sunset, we will visit an observation tower in the rainforest canopy, which offers an astonishing 360-degree view of the Amazon basin and is the perfect photo opportunity! Birdwatchers and bird-lovers alike will especially enjoy this outing.

Day 4: Monday

Indillama & Napo River – Yasuni National Park

We will begin the day kayaking along the Indillama River, one of the Napo River’s tributaries, which leads us into Yasuni 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. The choice is yours! In these waters, you will find yourself surrounded by lush greenery.

After an adventure-filled day, you may choose to take advantage of our observation deck where you can relax and experience a magical view under the stars.

Our more energetic passengers may choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle to observe nocturnal creatures.

Day 5: Tuesday

HOME OF THE LEGENDARY PINK DOLPHIN AND THE SECOYA COMMUNITY

In the morning we will explore the lower part of the Napo River, where we will spot different bird species such as eagles, oropendolas, and the celebrated woodpeckers. In the afternoon we will visit Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and home to the legendary pink dolphin. This is the perfect opportunity to participate in our pink dolphin conservation program, which we are involved in together with the Martinica community in the Cocaya area, providing a safe haven where these dolphins can live and feed without the risk of being hunted. The Secoyas people, a minority ancestral culture, live near Yasuni and will show us how to prepare traditional cassava bread during our visit.

Day 6: Wednesday

KICHWA FAMILY AND LIFE ONBOARD

We will begin the day by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, where we will have the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community about their lifestyle. We will then board the Manatee and participate in a cooking class with our expert chef, who will show us how to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian fare. Guests are also invited to try their hand at traditional handicrafting or to take in the magnificent Amazon environment from our open-air hot tub, enjoy cocktails at our Bar and Lounge, or delight in some nighttime stargazing from our Observation Deck. Our more active guests will have the opportunity to explore nature in this area by kayak.

Day 7: Thursday

Forest Adventure & Observation Canopy Tower

Our passengers can relax and enjoy the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer during the morning and disembark to explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover a myriad of different animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin.

In the afternoon, we will visit a canopy tower, built against a giant Kapok tree. The perspective at the top of this observation tower is truly glorious, looming above the lush treetops and providing a view of the sheer vastness of the Amazon Basin.

In the evening, we will bravely venture into the river on a canoe to search for black caimans with the help of our flashlights.

Day 8: Friday

Return

This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the last part of our return journey onboard and then disembark the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer to take the motorized canoe back to Coca (a one-and-a-half-hour ride).

Cruise (Mon – Mon) – 8 days / 7 nights

Day 1: Monday

Quito – Coca – Napo River

Our adventure begins in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. After a 30-minute flight from Quito to the Amazonian city of Coca, we will transfer to the dock and board our motorized canoe for a 90-minute journey down the river, taking in the Amazon, until we reach the Manatee Amazon Explorer and receive our welcome aboard. On the Manatee, we will be joined by expert local naturalist guides, who will provide us with a brief, informative introduction to the Ecuadorian Amazon; afterwards, guests will have the opportunity to explore our cruise ship and admire the rainforest landscape as we glide down the Napo River. After dinner, we will take a nighttime forest walk to observe the rainforest’s nocturnal activity and vividly experience its biodiversity first-hand.

Day 2: Tuesday

HOME OF THE LEGENDARY PINK DOLPHIN AND THE SECOYA COMMUNITY

In the morning we will explore the lower part of the Napo River, where we will spot different bird species such as eagles, oropendolas, and the celebrated woodpeckers. In the afternoon we will visit Yasuni National Park, one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and home to the legendary pink dolphin. This is the perfect opportunity to participate in our pink dolphin conservation program, which we are involved in together with the Martinica community in the Cocaya area, providing a safe haven where these dolphins can live and feed without the risk of being hunted. The Secoyas people, a minority ancestral culture, live near Yasuni and will show us how to prepare traditional cassava bread during our visit.

Day 3: Wednesday

KICHWA FAMILY AND LIFE ONBOARD

We will begin the day by visiting an authentic Kichwa family on the banks of the Napo River, where we will have the opportunity to learn directly from members of the local community about their lifestyle. We will then board the Manatee and participate in a cooking class with our expert chef, who will show us how to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian fare. Guests are also invited to try their hand at traditional handicrafting or to take in the magnificent Amazon environment from our open-air hot tub, enjoy cocktails at our Bar and Lounge, or delight in some nighttime stargazing from our Observation Deck. Our more active guests will have the opportunity to explore nature in this area by kayak.

Day 4: Thursday

Forest adventure & Observation Canopy Tower

Our passengers can relax and enjoy the M/V Manatee Amazon Explorer during the morning and disembark to explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover a myriad of different animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin.

In the afternoon, we will visit a canopy tower, built against a giant Kapok tree. The perspective at the top of this observation tower is truly glorious, looming above the lush treetops and providing a view of the sheer vastness of the Amazon Basin.

In the evening, we will bravely venture into the river on a canoe to search for black caimans with the help of our flashlights.

Day 5: Friday

Indillama Napo River – The Northern Side of Yasuni National Park

We will 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, guests can take advantage of our observation deck and experience a magical view under the stars. Our more energetic guests can choose to unwind with a night walk through the jungle in search of nocturnal creatures.

Day 6: Saturday

Pañacocha Biological Corridor

We will travel downstream to the Pañayacu River delta, where we will take a canoe trip to Pañacocha Lake (“Piranha Lake” in the native Kichwa), an ecosystem flooded by black-waters. The 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. We will participate in nature walks led by local naturalist guides, and relax at a nearby campsite, where we will enjoy an Amazon-style BBQ. After lunch, we will do some kayaking and swimming activities. Back on board the Manatee, our guests will have the opportunity to attend a lecture and watch an educational documentary about the region.

Day 7: Sunday

Parrot Clay Licks – Amazonian Communities & Observation Tower

In the morning we will 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, we will visit a Kichwa Cultural Center, where we will learn about Amazon communities and their ancestral culture, traditions, and cuisine. Members of the local community will teach us about indigenous lifestyles along the Napo River, and we will have the opportunity to support the community by purchasing handicrafts, local products, and souvenirs. Before sunset, we will 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.

Day 8: Monday

Return

This is where our adventure ends! Enjoy the final part of our return journey, then disembark the Manatee Amazon Explorer to take the motorized canoe 90 minutes back to Coca.

 

DISCOUNTS APPLY, PLEASE CONTACT US

2023 MANATEE AMAZON EXPLORER RATES PER PERSON IN USD DBL ACCOMMODATION

*Discount for triple occupancy – 45% for the third person in the cabin.
** Supplement for single occupancy – 50%.
***Discount for children under 12 years old – 50% (1 child per cabin). The minimum age of children is 7 years.

Included:
• Accommodation on board M/V MANATEE;
• Full board on board;
• Water, coffee and tea on board;
• Canoe and land-based wildlife tours visiting Indian communities with our experienced expedition team;
• All transfers;
• Services of an English-speaking guide.

Not included:
• Flight Quito-Coca-Quito USD 250 per person (fare subject to change without prior notice);
• Medical/travel insurance;
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks;
• Tips;
• Satellite Internet;
• Personal expenses;
• Any services not listed.

Accommodation

Capacity

Cruise Duration

4d/ 3n

5d / 4n

8d / 7n

 

DOUBLE

 

 

Standard cabins

22 pax

$     2.179,00

$     2.722,00

$       4.356,00

DOUBLE

 

 

Deluxe 

8 pax

$     2.727,00

$     3.402,00

$       5.442,00