Grand Amazon Expedition (Luxury Amazon Cruises)

This purpose-built Amazon vessel combines the amenities of a luxury ocean liner with intimate scale needed for river navigation. Two restaurants serve everything from international cuisine to exotic Amazonian specialties like fresh tambaqui and cupuaçu cocktails, while two bars keep the drinks flowing from morning coffee to evening sundowners. There are two swimming pools on board (one with a jacuzzi), a fully-equipped spa and fitness centre and in the evening, entertainment includes live music, folkloric shows, and educational lectures about the wildlife. The ship is also entirely plastic-free.

Every one of the 72 spacious cabins has a private river-view balcony, the standout feature of the Grand Amazon. The standard cabins, spread across three decks, are all identical and include aircon, a TV, minibars and safes, and a full bathroom with hot shower. There are also two Royal Suites, each at 50 square-metres, with separate living areas, dining tables and larger balconies with sun loungers. Family rooms connect two standard cabins with shared access and are also good for larger groups.

Whichever itinerary you opt for, there are plenty of ways to see the Amazon. Daily excursions use smaller, solar-powered motorboats and traditional canoes to access areas the main ship cannot, and you'll have the chance to explore flooded forests and lakes, and visit the local communities to share in their culture and traditional practices. Guided jungle walks reveal fascinating plants and flowers - and plenty of photo opportunities - or you may choose to try your hand at piranha fishing from a traditional wooden canoe.