Expedition cruise up the Amazon: from Coastal Brazil to the River's Soul

Fortaleza→Belem

17.04.27 - 26.04.27

V1127041709SH VEGA

Ports8

Countries1

Nights9

Embark on a pioneering expedition up one of the world's greatest rivers. Our journey, "Expedition cruise Up the Amazon: from Coastal Brazil to the River's Soul," is a voyage that charts a unique course from the Brazilian coastline deep into the heart of the Amazon. The adventure begins in the bustling coastal city of Fortaleza, then we sail to the port city of Itaqui, gateway to the river's interior

Cruise Only

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Cruise

Price on request

Your selected stateroom

All meals onboard

Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise

24-hour room service

Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers

One selected shore excursion per port of call

All expedition landings

Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)

Gym, sauna, pool

24/7 self service laundry

Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep

In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot

Memory Package

Onboard gratuities & port taxes

Charter flights

Group transfers

One night pre-cruise accommodation

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Your expedition truly begins as we enter the river’s vast delta, navigating a series of intricate channels. Sail through the mesmerising Breves Narrows and the winding Furo do Cujuba, where the river's waters blend with the vibrant rainforest. You'll witness the unique ecosystems of Rio Cajari and the lush landscapes of Aquiqui and Gurupá, as you venture further into the river's mysterious heart. The journey culminates in the historic and thriving city of Belém, the very soul of the Amazon's maritime world. This is more than a cruise; it is an adventure of discovery. Along the way, you’ll encounter the immense biodiversity of the rainforest, from its unique wildlife to its local communities. You will be a true explorer, navigating a world of unparalleled natural wonder and rich culture

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1. Fortaleza

Fortaleza is Brazil's fifth-largest city, located on the northeastern coastline in the state of Ceará. Its history includes a Dutch outpost in 1654, later retaken by the Portuguese and renamed Fortaleza (fortress). Among the highlights are the Praia do Futuro beach, forró, traditional music and dance at the ornate, Art Nouveau-styled Theatro José de Alencar, or shopping for hammocks and handmade lace and embroideries at the Central Market

Day 2. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 3-4. Itaqui, São Luís

Itaqui, a port in São Luís, Maranhão, provides access to the UNESCO-listed Praia Grande historic city centre. This area is home to over 3,500 colonial Portuguese houses, along with galleries and museums. Further inland, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is renowned for its unique landscape of stunning white sand dunes sculpted by the wind and filled with rain-fed, crystal-clear blue lagoons

Days 5-6. Day at sea

Day 7. Rio Cajari

The Rio Cajari Extractive Reserve in Amapá highlights remarkable ecological diversity while balancing conservation with sustainable use by local communities. Encompassing rainforests, cerrado grasslands, and flooded riparian zones, the reserve is home to valuable tree species like Brazil nuts and açaí palms. It supports a wide range of wildlife, including tapirs, monkeys, cats, alligators, turtles and numerous bird and fish species

Day 7. Aquiqui, Amazon River

Aquiqui is a town along the Iquiqui River's unspoiled banks on a tributary of the Amazon in Brazil. Surrounded by rainforest, it provides access to traditional Caboclo communities living in harmony with nature, where visitors can learn ancient wisdom and observe their customs, beliefs and way of life in tune with the ecosystem. The area is home to diverse wildlife like aquatic birds, monkey squirrels and iguanas

Day 8. Gurupa, Amazon River

Gurupa is a fishing town on the Amazon River delta in Brazil. Located on Ilha Grande do Gurupá island, it lies near the Amazon's convergence with the Xingu River. Adapted to seasonal floods, Gurupa offers access to the biodiversity of the vast Amazon Basin and an ecosystem which includes várzea forest and savanna. The area provides habitat for endemic birds like the scaled spinetail, fish, monkeys and bats drawn to the várzea's fruiting trees

Day 8. Furo do Cujuba

Furo do Cujuba is a stream in Pará, Brazil, that traverses diverse Amazonian ecosystems, including forests, lowland forests and aquatic vegetation. This waterway is part of the intricate system of rivers and channels that characterise the Amazon region. These ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Amazon. Along the furos are riverside communities whose daily lives are intimately connected to these waterways

Day 9. Cruising Breves Narrows

Navigating Brazil's Breves Narrows, upriver from Belem in the Thousand Islands region, is a mesmerising Amazonian journey. This natural passage, surrounded by towering walls of lush vegetation, creates a secluded green canyon in the heart of the jungle. Enigmatic wildlife such as scarlet macaws, and equatorial flora such as giant Victoria water lilies flourish. The welcoming locals, known as ribeirinhos, offer warm hospitality

Day 10. Belem

Once one of South America's most prosperous cities, known as ‘tropical Paris’, today Belém remains a thriving port and is the gateway to the Amazon. The opulence of Belém’s golden era is showcased at the neoclassical-style 1874 Theatro da Paz on the Praça de República. Pretty green spaces are shaded by mango trees and the historical centre has plenty of wonderful museums. The bustling Ver-o-Peso market is Latin America's largest open-air market

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Vega at a glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Vega’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-toceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes. Bold clean lines blend with wood, metal and natural fabrics to create welcoming spaces.

Culinary Excellence

Our top chefs have come together to create a unique gastronomic experience, with creative Italian and Asian fusion dishes, and diverse menus of exceptional quality.

Beauty & Spa

Choose from one of the many beauty and wellness treatments at our Balinese spa, including hot stone and bamboo massages, and pampering body care.

Fitness & Sauna

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. Enjoy sessions with personal trainers and relax in sauna with a view.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Heated Outdoor Pool

Our heated infinity pool was designed for you to unwind after a busy day, and immerse yourself in the inspiring scenery.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.