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Grand Amazon Expedition

An all-inclusive, floating resort offering live entertainment, comfort, and exciting excursions.

Overview

Are you looking for a way to experience the Amazon without sacrificing comfort and style? The 74-cabin Iberostar Grand Amazon Expedition blends all the luxury of a five-star hotel with the excitement and adventure of the world’s largest rainforest.

Life Aboard

Your all-inclusive experience starts the moment you step aboard this luxury cruise liner. Toast to your adventure as you set sail with a top-shelf beverage from the open bar. Then, enjoy the sunset from the top deck while listening to the nightly musical performance. At mealtimes, you may choose between two restaurants, which are both included in the all-inclusive pricing.

The Kuarup restaurant offers a breakfast and lunch buffet and upscale à la carte options in the evening. The Tucano Grill provides continental breakfast and casual lunches and dinners. Though your on-shore excursions are sure to be filled with adventures, the ship provides ample opportunities for relaxation. On the upper deck, take in the scenery while lounging in the whirlpool or one of the two pools.

After a day of hiking and exploration, schedule a massage at the spa. You can also use the fitness room to keep up your exercise routine while on board. Though the Iberostar Grand Amazon features a larger cruise liner’s amenities, the maximum capacity is just 148 guests. The intimate group size means you will have plenty of personal attention and space to enjoy all the ship has to offer.

Every cabin on the Iberostar Grand Amazon Expedition, with the exception of the Royal suites, are all the same size and have all the same features, each having a river-view balcony with seating, which makes this the ideal ship for watching the Amazon slip by from the comfort of your private sanctuary. The only choice you really have to make is cabin location – in general, the higher the deck, the better the views and the lower the engine noise – something to bear in mind with such a large vessel.

Excursions

The Iberostar Grand Amazon Expedition offers three itineraries, all of which depart from Manaus. The 4-day option explores the rich cultures of the Manacapuru and Manaquiri regions and the Solimões River. A 5-day itinerary travels north-west along the Negro River and the ecologically rich area that surrounds it. Can’t choose between the two? Have it all with the eight-day plan, which combines both the four- and five-day schedules.

Whichever itinerary you opt for, there are unique ways to experience the cultures and wildlife of the Amazon region. Take a skiff boat tour for daytime piranha fishing or late-night caiman spotting in the Manaquiri region. Along the Manacapuru River, there are opportunities for photo safaris via skiff boat or jungle walks. Then, you can observe the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ at sunrise. The black water of the Negro River and the tan hues of the Solimões River merge into one waterway, but the waters refuse to mix and create a multi-colored river.

On Tres Bocas, one of the largest islands in the Anavilhanas archipelago, you can see orchids among the dense vegetation, as well as rare toucans and macaws. You will also visit Cambebas, an authentic indigenous village, to learn about life in the Amazon. There are also opportunities to visit a museum dedicated to rubber tapping and to interact with pink Amazon dolphins.

Ideal for multi-generation cruises

Finding a holiday that appeals to the whole family can be tricky, but the Iberostar Grand Amazon Expedition truly has something for everyone. Children above the age of eight years are welcome aboard. Young (or picky) eaters will always find things to enjoy on the buffet and their favorite pizza and sandwiches at the snack bar.

There are also two pairs of interconnected cabins on each floor, which allow plenty of space for families to play and sleep comfortably. A wheelchair-accessible room is also available, and an elevator provides access to each level, making the Iberostar Grand Amazon Expedition a unique option for people of all abilities.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 3
4-Day A
5-Day B
8-Day A+B

4 Day - Rio Solimoes

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: We embark on the Grand Amazon in the Port of Manaus in the late afternoon and then, after settling into our luxurious cabins, we can watch the sunset from the top deck as the boat begins sailing on the Amazon.

Tonight, the crew welcomes you aboard with a cocktail, followed by a delicious dinner. This is your first opportunity to take advantage of the ship's open bar policy!

Iberostar's 4-Day Cruise Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Manaus - Amazon River
Day
1 / 4

Lake Janauacá & Manaquiri

AM: We wake up at Janauacá Lake. If you are up early, there is a Sunrise Lovers' continental breakfast on the Upper Deck, where you can enjoy the early morning atmosphere. Otherwise, you can enjoy the buffet spread in the Kuarup Restaurant.

After breakfast, we make exploration by skiff and along marked trails of the rainforest, keeping our eyes open for jungle birds and Pink River Dolphins. There should be countless photo opportunities. We also stop at the home of a local Caboclo, to gain insight into human life in the Amazon, and perhaps purchase some of the traditional handicrafts. Later back on board there will be a lecture on Amazon Fruits in the Lua Salon.

PM: In the afternoon, we continue to the Manaquiri Region, for an excursion by skiff through the closed-in streams. It is a great opportunity for spotting some of the flora and fauna of the Amazon and a chance to try your skills fishing for piranha!

We are welcomed back on board with live music on the upper deck. And then, after dinner, we can go on a night tour potting caiman along the river banks, using spotlights and listen to the night sounds of the jungle.

Iberostar's 4-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Two - Piranha Fishing.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 4

Rio Manacapuru & Lake Janauari

AM: This morning the Grand Amazon enters the Manacapuru River and, for the early risers, there is a chance to go birding in the skiffs, as the sun rises over the beautiful jungle. After breakfast, we board the expedition skiffs for a photo safari through the narrow waterways of the region, where the vegetation overhangs the water, or head out on a jungle walk adventure. Upon returning to the boat we can enjoy a lecture on Amazon People and Culture.

PM: After lunch and a rest, we head to Lake Janauari, where we have the chance to visit a regional houseboat, get to know the local crafts, and take a short walking tour of the region. We wait until dusk before returning to the cruise boat as it is a great time to spot numerous species - especially birds - in large quantities.

This evening there is a farewell dinner, in the Kuarup Restaurant, and a Folklore Show in the Lua Salon as we celebrate the sights we have seen and friends we have made over the last few days.

Iberostar's 4-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Three - Meeting Native Communities in the Amazon Brazil.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: We wake up early to see the fascinating phenomenon known as the Meeting of the Waters at sunrise. This is the point where the black water of the Rio Negro and brown water of the Solimoes meet - but don't mix. Don't worry, continental breakfast will be available!

We then continue to the port of Manaus, for disembarkation.

Iberostar's 4-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Four - Disembarkation.
Location
Amazon River - Manaus
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Rio Negro

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: We embark on the Iberostar Grand Amazon in the Port of Manaus in the late afternoon and then, after settling into our luxurious cabins, we can watch the sunset from the top deck as the boat begins sailing on the Amazon.

Tonight, the crew welcomes you aboard with a cocktail, followed by a delicious dinner. This is your first opportunity to take advantage of the ship's open bar policy!

Iberostar's 5-Day Cruise Itinerary Day One - Skiff Exploration.
Location
Manaus - Amazon River
Day
1 / 5

Jaraqui Stream & Tres Bocas Island

AM: If you are up early, there is a Sunrise Lovers' breakfast on the Upper Deck, where you can enjoy the early morning atmosphere. Otherwise, you can enjoy the buffet spread in the Kuarup Restaurant.

After breakfast, we go and explore the Jaraqui region. Depending on the water level, we either stay on the expedition skiffs or take a guided hike along a jungle trail, where we can learn about the trees and plants that are of particular importance to locals for construction and the production of medicines. 

Back on board, we enjoy an introductory Amazon lecture in the Lua Salon and have lunch on the terrace of Kuarup restaurant, followed by time for a welcome siesta!

PM: In the late afternoon, we board the skiffs again to explore the second largest fluvial archipelago in the world, Anavilhanas, a huge collection of river islands and beaches, which are striking and photogenic contrast to the black waters of the River Negro. 

One of the largest islands in the Archipelago is Tres Bocas, and here one can see dense vegetation that includes bountiful orchids and bromeliads and is home to birds such as toucans and macaws. After dark, caimans are abundant and fun to spot from the skiffs. 

Iberostar's 5-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Two - Guided Jungle Trail Walks.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 5

Cuieiras River & Ariaú Region

AM: As the sun rises, the Grand Amazon arrives at the River Cuieiras, and we have the chance to enjoy the resplendent scenery as we take our breakfast. For our morning tour, we pay a visit by skiff and on foot to Cambebas, a fascinating indigenous village, where we learn how the locals have adapted their way of life to best suit their environment, visit their school, and have a chance to buy handicrafts.

PM: Upon our return to the boat, there will be a lecture on Amazonian Fish, including the dreaded piranha which we will then have the chance to catch for ourselves as we head back out onto the waterways of the Ariaú region. This is an area known for the abundance of monkey species and sloths, as well as birds of prey and kingfishers. We can also get to know the fish life... by catching it (and then releasing it)! The easiest species to catch is the famed piranha, and most people have a chance to be photographed with their catch. Alternatively, we may pay a visit to a local farm to learn about the way of life there.

Once back on board, we have dinner and then can enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the Grand Amazon. Later, there is a night tour by motorboat to spot alligators and listen to the night sounds of the Ariaú region.

Iberostar's 5-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Three - Top Deck Views.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 5

Praia Grande & Rubber Tapping Museum

AM: There is the option of a pre-breakfast birding excursion by skiff for those that wish to enjoy the Amazon dawn and its abundant wildlife.Then, after breakfast, we head to the Praia Grande - which means, simply, 'Big Beach' in English - yes, that's right there are beaches on the Amazon! There is a chance to swim in the refreshing waters of the Rio Negro and even the incredible opportunity to interact with the rather peculiar-looking but remarkable pink Amazon river dolphins. Back on board, there is a lecture on Amazon Birds in the Lua Salon. 

PM: After lunch, we step back in time as we visit the Rubber Tapping Museum and learn about the shocking history of the rubber trade which made the region the richest in the world at one point in time. This evening we have a special gala dinner, with exotic Amazon dancing, as a celebration of what we have experienced and a farewell.

Iberostar's 5-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Four - Visiting the Rio Negro.
Location
Amazon River
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: We wake up early to see the fascinating phenomenon known as the Meeting of the Waters at sunrise. This is the point where the black water of the Rio Negro and brown water of the Solimoes meet - but don't mix. Don't worry, breakfast will be available!

We then continue to the port of Manaus, for disembarkation.

Iberostar's 5-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Five - Disembarkation.
Location
Amazon River - Manaus
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

8 Day - Rio Solimões & Rio Negro

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Tonight, the crew welcomes you aboard with a cocktail, followed by a delicious dinner. This is your first opportunity to take advantage of the ship's open bar policy! 

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day One - Romantic Amazon Views.
Location
Manaus - Amazon River
Day
1 / 8

Jaraqui Stream & Tres Bocas Island

AM: If you are up early, there is a Sunrise Lovers' breakfast on the Upper Deck, where you can enjoy the early morning atmosphere. Otherwise, you can enjoy the buffet spread in the Kuarup Restaurant. After breakfast, we go and explore the Jaraqui region. Depending on the water level, we either stay on the expedition skiffs or take a guided hike along a jungle trail, where we can learn about the trees and plants that are of particular importance to locals for construction and the production of medicines.

PM: We have lunch back on board, followed by time for a welcome siesta! In the late afternoon, we board the skiffs again to explore the second largest fluvial archipelago in the world, Anavilhanas, a huge collection of river islands and beaches, which are in striking and photogenic contrast to the black waters of the River Negro. One of the largest islands in the Archipelago is Tres Bocas, and here one can see dense vegetation that includes bountiful orchids and bromeliads and is home to birds such as toucans and macaws. After dark, caimans are abundant and fun to spot from the skiffs.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Two - Upper Deck Views.
Location
Amazon River
Day
2 / 8

Cuieiras River & Ariaú Region

AM: As the sun rises, the Grand Amazon arrives at the River Cuieiras, and we have the chance to enjoy the resplendent scenery as we take our breakfast. For our morning tour, we pay a visit by skiff and on foot to Cambebas, a fascinating indigenous village, where we learn how the locals have adapted their way of life to best suit their environment, visit their school, and have a chance to buy handicrafts.

PM: Upon our return to the boat, there will be a lecture on Amazonian Fish, including thea dreaded piranha which we will then have the chance to catch for ourselves as we head back out onto the waterways of the Ariaú region. This is an area known for the abundance of monkey species and sloths, as well as birds of prey and kingfishers. We can also get to know the fish life ... by catching it (and then releasing it). The easiest species to catch is the famed piranha, and most people have a chance to be photographed with their catch.

Alternatively, we may pay a visit to a local farm to learn about the way of life there. Once back on board, we have dinner and then can enjoy the facilities and entertainment of the Grand Amazon. Later, there is a night tour by motorboat to spot alligators and listen to the night sounds of the Ariaú region.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Three - Jungle Walk.
Location
Amazon River
Day
3 / 8

Praia Grande & Rubber Tapping Museum

AM: There is the option of a pre-breakfast birding excursion by skiff for those that wish to enjoy the Amazon dawn and its abundant wildlife. Then, after breakfast, we head to the Praia Grande - which means, simply, 'Big Beach' in English - yes, that's right there are beaches on the Amazon! There is a chance to swim in the refreshing waters of the Rio Negro and even the incredible opportunity to interact with the rather peculiar-looking but remarkable pink Amazon river dolphins. Back on board, there is a lecture on Amazon Birds in the Lua Salon.

PM: After lunch, we step back in time as we visit the Rubber Tapping Museum and learn about the shocking history of the rubber trade which made the region the richest in the world at one point in time. This evening we have a special gala dinner for those leaving the next day, with exotic Amazon dancing, as a celebration of what we have experienced and a farewell.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Four - Meeting of the Waters.
Location
Amazon River
Day
4 / 8

Relaxation Day

AM: The Grand Amazon disembarks and embarks passengers at the Port of Manaus. Please note that excursions this day are available at an additional cost (city tours and private excursions). Lunch and bar/pool services will remain available during the day.

PM: Rio Solimões navigation. Sunset on the terrace with background music.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Five - Exploring by Skiff.
Location
Manaus Port
Day
5 / 8

Lake Janauacá & Manaquiri

AM: We wake up at Janauacá Lake. If you are up early, there is a Sunrise Lovers' breakfast on the Upper Deck, where you can enjoy the early morning atmosphere. Otherwise, you can enjoy the buffet spread in the Kuarup Restaurant. After breakfast, we make exploration by skiff and along marked trails of the rainforest, keeping our eyes open for jungle birds and Pink River Dolphins. There should be countless photo opportunities. We also stop at the home of a local Caboclo, to gain insight into human life in the Amazon, and perhaps purchase some of the traditional handicrafts. Later back on board there will be a lecture on Amazon Fruits in the Lua Salon.

PM: In the afternoon, we continue to the Manaquiri Region, for an excursion by skiff through the closed-in streams. It is a great opportunity for spotting some of the flora and fauna of the Amazon and a chance to try your skills fishing for piranha! We are welcomed back on board with live music on the upper deck. And then, after dinner, we can go on a night tour potting caiman along the river banks, using spotlights and listen to the night sounds of the jungle.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Six - Fishing for piranhas.
Location
Amazon River
Day
6 / 8

Rio Manacapuru & Lake Janauari

AM: This morning the Grand Amazon enters the Manacapuru River and, for the early risers, there is a chance to go birding in the skiffs, as the sun rises over the beautiful jungle. After breakfast, we board the expedition skiffs for a photo safari through the narrow waterways of the region, where the vegetation overhangs the water, or alternatively head out on a jungle walk adventure. Upon returning to the boat we can enjoy a lecture on Amazon People and Culture.

PM: After lunch and a rest, we head to Lake Janauari, where we have the chance to visit a regional houseboat, get to know the local crafts, and take a short walking tour of the region. We wait until dusk before returning to the cruise boat as it is a great time to spot numerous species - especially birds - in large quantities. This evening there is a special dinner, in the Kuarup Restaurant, with live music as entertainment.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Seven - Watching the sunset.
Location
Amazon River
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: This morning, after breakfast, we arrive at the port of Manaus, where we say our fond goodbyes and disembark.

Iberostar's 8-Day Cruise Itinerary Day Eight - Disembarkation.
Location
Amazon River - Manaus
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

Accommodations

Social Areas

Front Desk
Lobby
Stairs
Boutique
Gym
Top Deck Bar
Plunge Pool
Pool
Sun Deck
Reading Room
TV Room
Spa
Bridge
Restaurant Grill
Theatre
Kuarup Restaurant
A woman receiving a massage
Bridge
Tables al fresco
Empty Theatre

Suites & Cabins

Iberostar - Mandi Suite Iberostar - Mandi Suite Iberostar - Mandi Suite Iberostar - Mandi Suite
14 Cabins

Mandi Suite

Guests
2
Size
23 m² / 248 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

The Mandí Suites are located on the first floor of the Iberostar cruise. To relax after walks and trips, you can cool off on the private balcony of your cabin while you contemplate the course of the Amazon River. In addition, you will enjoy the views from a cruise ship free from single-use plastics, as well as other environmentally-friendly measures.

There is one wheelchair-accessible cabin on the Mandi deck. The room features less furniture, a widened doorway, a roll-in shower, and extra bathroom rails for greater access. The bathroom also comes with hot water, shampoo, soap, and other amenities for a refreshing shower.

Iberostar - Tambaqui Suite Iberostar - Tambaqui Suite Iberostar - Tambaqui Suite Iberostar - Tambaqui Suite
29 Cabins

Tambaqui Suite

Guests
2
Size
23 m² / 248 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

Some of these cabins are interconnected, making them especially suitable for families. The spacious cabins come with private balconies where you can relax and unwind, enjoying the amazon scenery. Guests can also enjoy room service from 11am - 11pm.


Iberostar - Acara Suite Iberostar - Acara Suite Iberostar - Acara Suite Iberostar - Acara Suite Iberostar - Acara Suite
29 Cabins

Acara Suite

Guests
2
Size
23 m² / 248 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

They feature a large river view cabin for guests to enjoy the grand view of the Amazon. They come with a fully-stocked minibar and a private balcony. The rooms have dehumidifiers, a safe, and a closet to put your belongings.

Iberostar - Royal Suite Iberostar - Royal Suite Iberostar - Royal Suite Iberostar - Royal Suite
2 Cabins

Royal Suite

Guests
2
Size
50 m² / 538 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

These suites are incredibly spacious, featuring extra-large balconies with sun-loungers. Guests in the royal suite can enjoy room service, a lounging area, a sofa, a kitchenette, and a dining table. The private bathrooms come with a gorgeous jacuzzi bath and built-in shower with hot water.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Connecting cabins
  • Cabins with balconies
  • Air conditioning
  • Pool / Jacuzzi
  • Excercise room
  • Massage room
  • Lecture room
  • Wheelchair access
  • Camera room
  • Medical staff

Equipment

  • Satellite phone
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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