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FIRST LOOK at Aqua Expeditions' upgraded ships

Same ships, same designer but a completely different look - that was the objective in mind for luxury cruise operator, Aqua Expeditions, when it decided to completely refurbish its Amazon vessels.

Same ships, same designer but a completely different look – that was the objective in mind for luxury cruise operator, Aqua Expeditions, when it decided to completely refurbish its Amazon vessels.

This week, both Aqua Amazon and Aria Amazon completed the first stages of their major upgrades, which included extensive refurbishment to all public interior, exterior areas and almost half of the suites.

Looking almost like completely new vessels, Aqua’s Founder and CEO, Francesco Galli Zugaro said changes onboard were necessary to meet the ‘needs and expectations’ of the new traveller.

“As the leader and pioneer of small ship luxury cruising on the Amazon and Mekong, we want our boats to always be top-of-the-line and at the forefront of guest comfort and experience.”

Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions Founder & CEO

Aria Amazon

But while the cruise line was looking for new elements to add to the vessels, it didn’t want to part from what customers already know and love.

That’s why original designer, renowned Peruvian architect, Jordi Puig was recruited to head and oversee the changes.

“Both vessels have a newly refreshed, elegant look about them that is indicative of our vision to provide a unique world-class experience.”

Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions Founder & CEO

So what’s changed onboard?

 

Fancy new furnishings

Aqua Amazon

The 12-suite Aqua Amazon and 16-suite Aria Amazon have been revamped throughout with exteriors featuring new woodwork, painting and awnings.

Common rooms such as the dining room above have received new wood flooring plus new luxurious seating, a granite buffet table, a waiter’s station, new entrance doors and new dinnerware.

 

Spacious suites

Aqua Amazon suite

The vessel’s spacious suites include new furniture, new wall treatments (wood veneer) and new vanities with larger mirrors and lights. Room bathrooms have also been updated with new floors and tiles.

 

Relaxing outdoors

Aqua Mekong paneling

Onboard Aria Amazon, the entrance features new lighting and wall coverings, and the outdoor lounge features new lighting and deck chair cushions.

 

Feels like a new bar

Aqua Aria

Meanwhile, on Aqua Amazon the indoor lounge & bar has been enhanced with new wooden furniture and bar stools. Softer lighting throughout the ship’s common areas creates a warm ambiance, perfect for relaxing with a pisco sour after a long day of exploring.

The second phase of renovations will see the rest of the suites upgraded. This is expected for completion during December this year.

What do you think of the renovated ships?