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All pictures and videos of wildlife were taken with a professional zoom lens from a distance required under environmental laws, ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the environment. The website (www.swanhellenic.com) is owned and operated by Swan Hellenic Travel Limited (20, Themistokli Dervi, Flat/Office 301, 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus)
© 2026 Swan Hellenic. All Rights Reserved
AECO
USTOA
CLI
ACTA
ACTA 2
IAATO
Cousteau
Virtuoso
Swan Hellenic
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Design by Charmer
All pictures and videos of wildlife were taken with a professional zoom lens from a distance required under environmental laws, ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the environment. The website (www.swanhellenic.com) is owned and operated by Swan Hellenic Travel Limited (20, Themistokli Dervi, Flat/Office 301, 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus)
© 2026 Swan Hellenic. All Rights Reserved
AECO
USTOA
CLI
ACTA
ACTA 2
IAATO
Cousteau
Virtuoso

Sign up for our newsletter

FOLLOW US
InstagramYouTubeFacebookTikTokLinkedIn

Swan Hellenic
Design by Charmer
AECO
USTOA
CLI
ACTA
ACTA 2
IAATO
Virtuoso
Cousteau
All pictures and videos of wildlife were taken with a professional zoom lens from a distance required under environmental laws, ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the environment. The website (www.swanhellenic.com) is owned and operated by Swan Hellenic Travel Limited (20, Themistokli Dervi, Flat/Office 301, 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus)
© 2026 Swan Hellenic. All Rights Reserved
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Rivers & Coasts: The Amazon to Fortaleza Expedition

Belem→Fortaleza
16.10.28 - 25.10.28

Rivers & Coasts: The Amazon to Fortaleza Expedition

Belem→Fortaleza
16.10.28 - 25.10.28
Book now
V3028101609SH VEGA
Ports4
Countries1
Nights9

Sail into the Amazon Delta, navigate the jungle-walled channels of the Breves Narrows, and go ashore in Afuá — a car-free river city built on stilts above the waterways of Marajó Island. From the heart of the world's largest rainforest, the route follows Brazil's northeastern coast to São Luís, where over 3,500 colonial Portuguese houses line a UNESCO-listed historic centre, before ending in Fortaleza, where the continent finally turns its face to the open Atlantic

Cruise Only

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

Price on request
Cruise

Sail into the Amazon Delta, navigate the jungle-walled channels of the Breves Narrows, and go ashore in Afuá — a car-free river city built on stilts above the waterways of Marajó Island. From the heart of the world's largest rainforest, the route follows Brazil's northeastern coast to São Luís, where over 3,500 colonial Portuguese houses line a UNESCO-listed historic centre, before ending in Fortaleza, where the continent finally turns its face to the open Atlantic

V3028101609SH VEGA
Ports4
Countries1
Nights9

Cruise Only

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

Price on request
Cruise
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

From the Amazon Delta along the northeastern coast of Brazil to Fortaleza

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

Days 1-2. Belem

Day image 1
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

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Old Belem & Arts And Culture

4 hours
This tour will give you the opportunity to discover the history of the town. Step back in time at the historic Forte do Presépio, the birthplace of Belém. This 17th-century fort marks the city's first population center and houses the fascinating Museu do Encontro. Here, you'll journey through the history of the Tupiunambá Indians, exploring artifacts from Marajoara funerary urns to colonial-era objects like Chinese coins. Don't miss the original 19th-century cannons in the patio, a testament to the fort's storied past. Then continue to Jewel Hub São José Liberto, a former prison turned gem museum. Marvel at the stunning collection of gold, diamonds, emeralds, and tourmalines that tell the story of Amazonian mining and occupation. Explore the state's first jewelry collection, the Pará-Amazonian, and immerse yourself in the rich history of gemology in Pará. Experience the grandeur of the Teatro da Paz, a symbol of Belém's economic and cultural boom during the rubber cycle. Inspired by Milan's Scala Theater, this 1878 masterpiece features Amazonian-themed interior paintings and specially designed straw chairs for the tropical climate. Recently restored to its original splendor, the theater is a must-see for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Last but not least the Museu de Arte Sacra, the first of its kind in the Amazon region. This cultural gem, housed in the Igreja de Santo Alexandre and the Palace Episcopal, boasts over 300 sacred art pieces. Wander through the Galery Fidanza and other exhibition spaces, and take home a piece of regional culture from the museum's shop.
Activity image 1
Included

Canoes Tour

4 hours
Travel by typical motorized river canoes to explore some of the Amazon River’s creeks and channels till arrive in the island of Boa Vista do Acará for a true forest experience. During the boat ride keep an eye out for local canoes, small fishing boats and other vessels making their way along the rivers that lead in and out of the rainforest. You’ll pass by the stilted homes of the inhabitants of the area whilst viewing the lush vegetation and keeping an eye out for the many species of birds that also make this area home. Upon arriving at Boa Vista do Acará, you will disembark and begin a 60-minute guided walk through the lush jungle. As your guide highlights the diverse array of trees, fruits, and seeds, varying with the seasons, you may have the opportunity to taste some freshly picked from the trees. Along the way, you'll also meet members of the local community, who will share their traditional knowledge of the forest and its resources, offering a deeper cultural connection to the environment around you. After the walk, relax as you journey back to Belem by boat and reflect on your experience.

Day 3. Cruising Breves Narrows

Day image 1
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 4. Afuá

Day image 1
Nestled within the world's largest rainforest, Afuá in Pará state, known as "Marajó's Venice" or the "Amsterdam of the Tropics," rests on fluvial Marajó Island near the Amazon's mouth. Built primarily on wooden stilts 1.5m above the waterways with boardwalks, this car-free city aims to become a net-zero emissions model. Residents travel the narrow streets by bicycle and boat, with many relying on fishing for their livelihood

Days 5-6. At sea

Day image 1
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 7-8. Itaqui, São Luís

Day image 1
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

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Historic City Tour in São Luís

4 hours
The Historic City Tour in São Luís offers not only an immersion into the rich history of the city but also a glimpse of its stunning beaches. This complete tour allows you to explore both the charms of the historic centre and the beautiful coastal landscapes. The tour begins with a visit to the main beaches of São Luís, such as Calhau Beach, São Marcos Beach, and Olho d'Água Beach. After this panoramic view of the beaches, we will continue to the historic centre of São Luís. Accompanied by a specialized guide, you will visit the Maranhão House, the Church of Sé, and various colonial-style mansions and historic streets. Additionally, there will be a stop at the Praia Grande Market, where you can admire and purchase local handicrafts, gaining deeper insight into the Maranhão culture and cuisine. The Historic City Tour in São Luís is an unmissable experience that combines the natural beauty of the beaches with the city's historical richness. It’s a unique opportunity to dive into the culture, history, and enchanting landscapes of São Luís. Take this tour to learn more about the past and identity of this special city.
Activity image 1
Optional

Santo Amaro - Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

13.5 hours
Tour will leave as soon as local authorities will allow guests to debark, planned departure time is around 06:30 am. Return to the ship will be shortly before sailing. We will leave the Porto do Itaqui in São Luís to the picturesque town of Santo Amaro, nestled beside the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. This scenic adventure spans approximately four hours, with a 20-minute pause in the charming city of Morros for a refreshing break. As we continue our voyage, we will make a brief stop at a gas station where the 4x4 open-air vehicles (jardineiras) await. These rugged vehicles will transport us through the park's entrance gate, leading us to the awe-inspiring Great Dunes. Our next destination is the quaint village of Betânia. Here, we will embark on a serene boat ride across the tranquil Alegre River, arriving at the restaurant for a sumptuous lunch. After a relaxing break, we will venture back to the dunes, making stops at the park's stunning lagoons, perfect for a refreshing swim in their crystal-clear waters. To enhance your experience, we will visit a special tent set up by Swan Hellenic, where you can indulge in fresh fruits, juices, and towels, all while soaking in the natural splendour around you. As our day draws to a close, we will return to the gas station to board our buses, concluding our magical journey back to São Luís. Join us for a day filled with adventure, relaxation, and the unparalleled beauty of Lençóis Maranhenses.

Day 9. At sea

Day image 1
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

Day 10. Fortaleza

Day image 1
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

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Discover Fortaleza

3 hrs 40 min
With a population of approximately 2.2 million residents, Fortaleza stands today as Brazil’s fifth-largest capital, offering a unique mix of tradition, innovation, and natural beauty. This immersive experience invites you to explore the historical roots and modern charm of Ceará’s capital, one of Brazil’s most dynamic coastal cities. Your tour begins with a deep dive into the city's colonial past, where you'll learn how Portuguese settlers and Dutch forces clashed over the strategic Fort Schoonenborch. This pivotal conflict laid the foundation for what would become Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, officially established on April 13, 1726. As we traverse the city, you'll witness the harmonious blend of old and new. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture and one of the largest churches in Brazil. The tour will continue to the Central Market (Mercado Central), a bustling hub of local crafts, regional delicacies, and cultural souvenirs. Enjoy a panoramic drive passing by the Saint House of Mercy Hospital and Centro de Turismo while going to the Dragão do Mar Culture Center, one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in Fortaleza, Ceará, and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Brazilian art, history, and heritage. Inaugurated in April 1999, the center spans over 33,000 square meters and was designed by renowned architects Delberg Ponce de Leon and Fausto Nilo, is home to a wide range of cultural and educational facilities and museums. After the visit drive back to the port passing by some of the most famous beaches as Meireles and Mucuripe Beaches, Praia do Futuro.
Activity image 1
Optional

Cumbuco Beach With Buggy Ride

5 hours
Escape to Cumbuco Beach, a hidden gem just 37 km west of Fortaleza, where nature’s beauty unfolds in a breathtaking fusion of golden dunes, emerald coconut groves, and serene lagoons. Once a traditional fishing village, this paradise now invites travelers to experience its untouched charm and exhilarating adventures. Hop on a buggy ride across the mobile dunes, where excitement and panoramic views blend into an unforgettable journey. Feel the rush as you glide over the sandy landscapes, surrounded by stunning coconut trees and the endless azure coastline. At the end of the buggy ride enjoy some free time on the beach.

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.

Staterooms

Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.

Oceanview - 1
Oceanview - 2
Oceanview - 3
Oceanview - 4

Oceanview

20 m²
Price on request

Features

  • Two single beds or a double bed
  • Bedroom with living room area
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious bathroom
Book now
Balcony - 1
Balcony - 2
Balcony - 3
Balcony - 4
Balcony - 5

Balcony

25 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 5 m² private balcony
  • Two single beds or a double bed
  • Bedroom with living room area
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious bathroom
Book now
Junior Suite - 1
Junior Suite - 2
Junior Suite - 3

Junior Suite

32-36 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 6 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room area
  • Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Book now
Suite - 1
Suite - 2
Suite - 3
Suite - 4
Suite - 5
Suite - 6
Suite - 7

Suite

41 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 5-10 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Book now
Premium Suite - 1
Premium Suite - 2
Premium Suite - 3
Premium Suite - 4
Premium Suite - 5
Premium Suite - 6

Premium Suite

41 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 8-12 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
  • Walk-in wardrobe
Book now

Expedition highlights

A destination of big nature and strong stories, from remote wildlife coasts to landmark landscapes and cultures shaped by ocean routes.

Expert-led Talks 1

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about this isolated polar region from our on board team of experts.

The Amazon Delta 1

The Amazon Delta

A maze of channels, islands, and flooded forest, where the river feels like an inland sea.

Macaws and Pink Dolphins 1

Macaws and Pink Dolphins

Cruise narrow waterways where river dolphins surface and rainforest birds flash through the canopy.

Rainforest Hikes 1

Rainforest Hikes

Take guided walks on rainforest trails and coastal paths, with time to stop for views, wildlife spotting, and photos.

SH Vega at a glance

Boutique Cruising 1

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 1

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 1

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 1

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 1

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 1

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 1

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 1

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.