Manatee Amazon Explorer 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.

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 vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; programmed visits according to the itinerary with a certified naturalist guide; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board; exclusive access to VIP Lounge before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks (2020 only).

Exclusions

Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($230 per person in 2019 & 2020), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels; admission to local communities, natural reserves and observation tower ($80 per person in 2019 & 2020); optional glamping excursion ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Wi-Fi (due to the remote area of navigation, satellite internet is only available in certain zones and during certain times; it may be purchased for the price of $15 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 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 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 2:00pm on weekdays and 6:00pm on weekends. 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 ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020; minimum of 2 passengers). Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. Gourmet meals, champagne and hot showers are available after an exciting nature walk. 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 breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.

Room Configuration

Single and triple accommodations may be available on request and based on availability.

2019 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 8-day $5900
Standard Suite Triple: 8-day $3340
Deluxe Suite Single: 8-day $7330
Deluxe Suite Triple: 8-day $4174

2020 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 8-day $6211
Standard Suite Triple: 8-day $3516
Deluxe Suite Single: 8-day $7716
Deluxe Suite Triple: 8-day $4393

Triple occupancy for two adults and a child under 12 years of age may be available, with the child sleeping on a sofa bed. Contact AdventureSmith for info and availability.

Families & Children

Discounted rates may be available for children under 12 years. Discount applies to 1 child per adult, e.g. 1 adult with 1 child or 2 adults with 2 children. In case there are 3 children and 2 adults, the 3rd child pays full adult rate. Children 7 years and older at time of departure are welcomed aboard all departure dates.

2019 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 8-day $1966
Deluxe Suite: 8-day $2456

2020 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 8-day $2070
Deluxe Suite: 8-day $2585

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. You must purchase your travel insurance policy within 15 or 21 days of booking (depending on plan) for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions; refer to plan details. 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.

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 vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; programmed visits according to the itinerary with a certified naturalist guide; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board; exclusive access to VIP Lounge before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks (2020 only).

Exclusions

Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($230 per person in 2019 & 2020), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels; admission to local communities, natural reserves and observation tower ($70 per person in 2019 & 2020); optional glamping excursion ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Wi-Fi (due to the remote area of navigation, satellite internet is only available in certain zones and during certain times; it may be purchased for the price of $15 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 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 2:00pm on weekdays and 6:00pm on weekends. 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 ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020; minimum of 2 passengers). Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. Gourmet meals, champagne and hot showers are available after an exciting nature walk. 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 breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.

Room Configuration

Single and triple accommodations may be available on request and based on availability.

2019 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 5-day $3686
Standard Suite Triple: 5-day $2090
Deluxe Suite Single: 5-day $4583
Deluxe Suite Triple: 5-day $2608

2020 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 5-day $3880
Standard Suite Triple: 5-day $2200
Deluxe Suite Single: 5-day $4824
Deluxe Suite Triple: 5-day $2745

Triple occupancy for two adults and a child under 12 years of age may be available, with the child sleeping on a sofa bed. Contact AdventureSmith for info and availability.

Families & Children

Discounted rates may be available for children under 12 years. Discount applies to 1 child per adult, e.g. 1 adult with 1 child or 2 adults with 2 children. In case there are 3 children and 2 adults, the 3rd child pays full adult rate. Children 7 years and older at time of departure are welcomed aboard all departure dates.

2019 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 5-day $1230
Deluxe Suite: 5-day $1535

2020 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 5-day $1295
Deluxe Suite: 5-day $1616

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. You must purchase your travel insurance policy within 15 or 21 days of booking (depending on plan) for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions; refer to plan details. 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.

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.

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 vessel when arriving on recommended flights; onboard accommodation; programmed visits according to the itinerary with a certified naturalist guide; unlimited supply of water, coffee and tea; all meals while on board; exclusive access to VIP Lounge before and after cruise with complimentary coffee, tea, water and light snacks (2020 only).

Exclusions

Transportation to and from Quito airport; air tickets package from Quito to Coca to Quito ($230 per person in 2019 & 2020), which includes private & personalized assistance at both airports, transfers to/from the vessels; admission to local communities, natural reserves and observation tower ($70 per person in 2019 & 2020); optional glamping excursion ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020); alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; gratuities; Wi-Fi (due to the remote area of navigation, satellite internet is only available in certain zones and during certain times; it may be purchased for the price of $15 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 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 2:00pm on weekdays and 6:00pm on weekends. 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 ($250 per person in 2019 & 2020; minimum of 2 passengers). Sleep in a spacious tent with room for standing, a zippered door and comfortable raised bed. Gourmet meals, champagne and hot showers are available after an exciting nature walk. 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 breakfast and your return to the Manatee ship.

Room Configuration

Single and triple accommodations may be available on request and based on availability.

2019 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 4-day $2949
Standard Suite Triple: 4-day $1670
Deluxe Suite Single: 4-day $3666
Deluxe Suite Triple: 4-day $2088

2020 Rates:
Standard Suite Single: 4-day $3104
Standard Suite Triple: 4-day $1758
Deluxe Suite Single: 4-day $3859
Deluxe Suite Triple: 4-day $2197

Triple occupancy for two adults and a child under 12 years of age may be available, with the child sleeping on a sofa bed. Contact AdventureSmith for info and availability.

Families & Children

Discounted rates may be available for children under 12 years. Discount applies to 1 child per adult, e.g. 1 adult with 1 child or 2 adults with 2 children. In case there are 3 children and 2 adults, the 3rd child pays full adult rate. Children 7 years and older at time of departure are welcomed aboard all departure dates.

2019 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 4-day $984
Deluxe Suite: 4-day $1231

2020 Child Rates:
Standard Suite: 4-day $1036
Deluxe Suite: 4-day $1295

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. You must purchase your travel insurance policy within 15 or 21 days of booking (depending on plan) for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions; refer to plan details. 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.