The high number of bird species spotted is in part due to good fortune, but also because we had the pleasure of welcoming two ornithologists on board who really decided to make the most of their cruise.

Their early morning outings and keen eyes were rewarded by identifying a total of 172 species during their seven day cruise! This really is an exceptional number and goes some way towards reflecting the variety and diversity constantly present along the Peruvian Amazon.

We challenge you to grab your wildlife checklist, join us aboard and beat their total.

Alongside some of the forest’s most common sightings we have been even more fortunate to enjoy breakfast on board whilst being entertained by the pink river dolphins and on one lucky occasion we caught a rare sighting of the Harpy Eagle, which is considered by Aqua Expeditions’ expert guide, Juan Tejanda as one of the Top Ten Amazon Wildlife sightings.  These stunning birds usually live deep in the densest past of the rainforest so the spectacle was even more exciting.

This rare and endangered species is the largest Eagle in the Americas and the second largest Eagle in the world.  These vast birds, which can weigh up to twenty pounds, are recognised by their crest of upwards pointing feathers.  They like to dine on monkeys and sloths, as well as green iguanas, snakes, and other birds.   Their wings, which are smaller than other similar sized birds, enable them to penetrate deep into the dense foliage of the rainforest to capture their prey.

Committed to providing an authentic wildlife and cultural experience to its guests, Aqua Expeditions has released a music CD for guests to relive their Amazonian voyage on dry land. The CD is a musical compilation performed by Aqua Expeditions’ “house band” – made up of M/V Aqua’s crew – and was recorded in Iquitos, Peru, its vessel’s home port.

The CD contains a collection of 12 tracks of instrumental and lyrical favorites that include Peruvian classics like “El Condor Pasa”  and internationally known pieces like “”Besame Mucho.” The album cover boasts artwork by famous Peruvian artist Christian Bendayán and can be purchased onboard in the M/V Aqua’s boutique.

In addition to this, Aqua Expeditions’ Wildlife Checklist, used during excursions into Pacaya Samiria Reserve, can also be transformed into a stylish keepsake. Listing dozens of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles, insects and common plants and trees, the guide keeps track of the many wildlife sightings while exploring the Amazon. It reads like a ‘wish list’ of the most exotic living things on Earth and includes the elusive Pink Dolphin and the endangered Amazonian Manatee; enough to elicit a little jealousy from even the most seasoned adventurer.

At 7:30AM some times a cup of coffee can’t wake you up the way an anaconda sighting can.