TYPOLOGY
OCEAN LINER & TRADITION
The ocean liner is a form of travel steeped in history. It stands for continuity, for ritual, for a philosophy which turns the journey itself into the destination. Transatlantic crossings, set mealtimes, formal evenings—this is travel that is characterized by structure and reliability. Ocean liners tell of a time when sea voyages marked transitions: between continents, stages of life, whole eras. They preserve this spirit even today, slowing the pace of life without falling into nostalgia, and offering a form of elegance rooted in repetition and ritual.
YACHT & PRIVACY
Yachts embody closeness—to the water, to the surroundings, to the fellow souls on board. With few passengers, the atmosphere recalls private travel, with flexible schedules, personal encounters, and excursions in small groups. These ships operate off the beaten path, able to anchor in bays, call at small ports, and stay longer. Yacht travel need not follow a fixed itinerary, but conjures a sense of relaxation and individuality where the sea is no mere backdrop, but a direct companion.
RIVER & PROXIMITY
River cruises are journeys in motion—slow, continuous, close to the daily life of the regions. The landscape does not simply pass by, but unfolds. Cities, villages, and riverside landscapes are at eye level, within reach at all times.
River vessels are manageable in size, with a calm rhythm. The closeness to the land influences the experience as profoundly as the closeness of the guests. River journeys invite passengers to take a closer look: at architecture, at culture, at the liminal areas where city blends into countryside. While they may be less spectacular, they always leave a lasting impression.
MEGASHIPS & WORLDS OF EXPERIENCE
Megaships are floating cities. They combine dining, entertainment, architecture, and infrastructure on an impressive scale. Diversity is their central promise, with a range of different restaurants, sports activities, workshops, events all possible at the same time.
This form of travel is aimed at people who value choice and seek variety. The sea provides the backdrop, not the focal point. Megaships operate regardless of route or weather. They create self-contained worlds of experience—and in doing so, define a unique form of travel.
ABOUT THE SHIP
Originally built in Vietnam as a riverboat, the Aqua Nera was transferred to Peru after being freshly renovated in 2024. It features 20 suites, each 323 sq ft in area. With a length of 205 ft, a width of 38 ft, and a draft of 5 ft, it adapts perfectly to the seasonal conditions throughout the year—especially the Amazon's fluctuating water levels. The elegant interior, designed by Vietnam-based Noor Studio, combines Asian and Latin American influences in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. On board, guests can enjoy a restaurant and a bar— both indoor and outdoor—alongside a lounge, observation deck, cinema, billiards room, spa, and boutique.
Guests accustomed to luxury will want for nothing aboard the Aqua Nera. A shade sail protects against the scorching sun, without impeding the sweeping views over the jungle.
AQUA EXPEDITIONS
GOOD TO KNOW
The four- or seven-day trips take passengers through the wilderness of the Amazon Basin, particularly into the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. The itinerary includes two guided rainforest nature excursions daily. Four skiffs—each with its own guide—are available for this purpose. Languages spoken on board are English and Spanish. Excursions, full board, and house wine and beer are included in the price.
CABINS
The 20 individually designed suites are spread across two decks. Each offers 323 sq ft of living space, a California king-size bed (6'11" x 6'7"), floor-to-ceiling windows, and air conditioning.
DINING
The varied and abundant cuisine is overseen by renowned celebrity chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, whose restaurant Malabar in Lima was listed among the World’s 50 Best. His culinary creations, composed with ingredients from the Peruvian rainforest, are accordingly delicious.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at set times.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also available, and dietary restrictions will be accommodated upon timely notification or when booking.
WHAT TO PACK
The climate is hot and very humid, and heavy tropical showers can be expected year-round. We therefore recommend very light clothing, along with a protective sun hat, thin rain cape, and sturdy shoes for jungle walks. Don’t forget swimwear for the onboard spa and for bathing in one of the lakes. A good mosquito repellent is also advisable.
WHICH INSECT REPELLENT?
Ensure it contains specific ingredients. Sprays with active ingredients of DEET and/or icaridin are particularly effective, reliably repelling mosquitoes and other insects. DEET is very effective, but harsh—it can damage plastics and cause skin irritation—while icaridin is considered more tolerable. Another recommended ingredient is IR3535, as gentle on the skin, lowodor, and biodegradable. The Nobite Haut Sensitive spray emerged as the test winner in the FAZ.
“Excursions are exciting, so when guests return to the calm of the ship, we want them to retain that connection to the jungle. Hence, the design integrates elements of the outside world.”
WEBSITE
www.aquaexpeditions.com
BOOKING
www.aquaexpeditions.com
An expedition on the Aqua Nera or Aria Amazon can be booked directly via the website. Since the trip is usually part of a more comprehensive Peruvian itinerary, it is advisable to book flights and transfers through a specialized tour operator or South American travel agency.
David Hodkinson, Design Director at Studio Noor, which created the interior design for the Aqua Nera:
The food focuses on regional cuisine.
Tranquility-seekers can retreat to the air-conditioned lounge and relax with a book.
Sloths are not uncommon in the jungle, and amaze visitors with their swimming skills.
ABOUT THE SHIP
Once used as a deep-sea fishing trawler, between 2018 and 2020 the 125-foot Cape Race was renovated and converted into a charming expedition ship equipped with the latest technology. Seven cabins accommodate a maximum of twelve guests. The picturesque furnishings were crafted from wood based on historical designs. The mess hall and saloon serve as common areas and feature a piano and a Danish diesel stove, as well as a sauna modeled after Nordic traditions. Thanks to its reinforced bow and propeller guard, the ship is capable of maneuvering through ice floes.
The Cape Race anchors near Greenland’s coast, where unique natural spectacles unfold.
GOOD TO KNOW
The Cape Race sails through North Atlantic waters and Arctic regions, so dressing warmly should be taken quite literally. The ports of call are largely fixed, but course changes may occur depending on weather and ice conditions. The captain involves guests in briefings. Thanks to its small size and maneuverability, the Cape Race allows for wildlife viewing from a respectful distance directly from the ship. Expedition leaders enrich every voyage with in-depth knowledge of the land and its people, as well as the local flora and fauna, and also share insights into historical contexts.
CAPE RACE
HIGHLIGHTS
Every voyage on the Cape Race is a unique experience in itself—through the Inner and Outer Hebrides, under the Arctic night sky on a whale-watching expedition, or along the coasts of Greenland with spectacular natural settings and visits to Inuit settlements.
Nikolaus Gelpke, owner of the Cape Race and publisher of mare, on the topic of walking barefoot on ice:
“A sailor tried it. and afterwards it looked like someone had been slaughtering seals.”
CLOTHING
Warm jackets and non-slip shoes or rubber boots for outdoors, waterproof hiking boots for shore excursions, and lighter clothing for indoors should be packed.
WEBSITE
https://mscaperace.com/expeditionen/
INQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS VIA Leguan Reisen GmbH Bartmannstrasse 87 50226 Frechen Tel. 02234 657915 / travel@leguan-reisen.de
The fresh cuisine is top-notch.
Freezing outside, cozy inside.
Twelve guests, seven cabins—each a little wooden haven.
These heads are from cod. Strung on lines, they create a slight eerie feel. But once fully dried and then ground, they form a vitamin- and protein-rich powder. It is shipped to Nigeria, where it is used to flavor foods—or, in the current parlance, as a umami enhancer.
Vegan cuisine is no scarcity on the ship
Which brings us to Signature Dream Cuisine. In addition to daily fresh menus that hint at Michelin-star ambitions, the “always available” principle applies, under which guests can dine à la carte at any time. As a pioneer of the Living Food movement, SeaDream has created a variety of plant-based dishes that allow healthy and sustainably produced products to be served. Vegan cuisine is no scarcity on the ship. It goes without saying that there are also fine wines on board, included in the cruise price. Only the choicest rarities like a 2002 Château Ducru Beaucaillou Grand Cru Classé incur a surcharge. Incidentally: SeaDream also offers exclusive wine tours.
The Lofoten Islands are a truly spectacular cruising region, where dramatic peaks, some crowned by glaciers,
rise from deep-blue fjords. Some islands beckon with surfing in secluded beach coves, and coasts adorned with blooming meadows and fishing villages of colorful wooden cottages. At the same time, there are places where Norwegian architects have left their mark with extravagant works in minimalist Nordic design style— such as Bergbotn viewing bridge, Tungenset wooden pier, and the gold-scaled restroom on Ersfjordstrand. The ship is small enough to navigate remote waters. Pack hiking boots to tackle breathtaking trails—not just in the northernmost corner. The picturesque village of Rosendal in the Hardangerfjord is also an ideal starting point for unique hikes. From the top, the view extends to glacial lakes and the Salmon Eye—a shimmering, floating structure shaped like a gigantic fish eye, one of the world’s largest art installations. It serves as a unique visitor and learning center, exploring the impacts of aquaculture and its production techniques. It is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Iris,
The Michelin-starred restaurant Iris reflects stories of the sea and mountains in its menu
where stories of the sea and mountains are reflected in the menu. Snagging a table here on short notice, however, borders on a miracle. At the time of printing, it was temporarily closed. But no reason for disappointment; unlike Iris, the SeaDream takes dietary restrictions into account. And indulging in the evening Dessert
Extravaganza on deck, perhaps by moonlight, is a culinary experience that touches the heart.
protect the
The SeaDream also has some unusual features, like the on-deck massage tubs.
Thousands of cod heads dangle in the wind to dry before being exported to Nigeria.
Boulders
old wooden houses in Leknes on the island of Vestvagoy, also the location of a famous fishing museum.
ABOUT THE SHIP
The four-masted schooner Star Clipper reflects the glorious heyday of the windjammer. Shimmering mahogany, polished brass, and teak decks evoke traditional maritime culture. At the same time, the 379-foot ship offers the comforts of a modern cruise ship, including two pools on deck. It accommodates a maximum of 170 guests. The spacious cabins feature a marble shower room with toilet and air conditioning; with the exception of six interior cabins, all are exterior.
View from the mast: socializing is a top priority on the Star Clipper.
GOOD TO KNOW
Life on board is relaxed—guests can visit the bridge at any time to watch the officers navigate. There are no assigned seats in the dining room, no loud music, no entertainment, and no dress code. The motto is sporty casual. Nothing to read? Borrow books from the stylish library.
CABINS
- 6 inside cabins: approx. 54–65 sq ft
- 70 outside cabins: 118–129 sq ft
- 8 Deluxe deck cabins: 156 sq ft
- 1 suite: 237 sq ft
WHAT TO PACK
Costa Rica is located in the tropical climate zone and has a tropical to subtropical climate, depending on altitude and region. Temperatures range between 30°C and 35°C year-round with high humidity. Clothing should be light and comfortable. A light jacket may come in handy for the evening breeze on board. There is no strict dress code. For excursions, you should bring sturdy shoes, and if you want to protect yourself from warm rain showers, pack a raincoat just in case. Even when cloudy, it is advisable to apply sunscreen with a high SPF—ideally an eco-friendly one. A hat is also recommended.
INSECT REPELLENT
Ensure it contains specific ingredients. Sprays with active ingredients of DEET and/or icaridin are particularly effective,
reliably repelling mosquitoes and other insects. DEET is very effective, but harsh— it can damage plastics and cause skin irritation—while icaridin is considered more tolerable. Another recommended ingredient is IR3535, as gentle on the skin, lowodor, and biodegradable. The Nobite Haut Sensitive spray emerged as the test winner in the FAZ.
DINING
In the elegant dining room with large communal tables, a lavish buffet featuring hot and cold dishes is served for breakfast and lunch. In the evening, the kitchen conjures up exquisite culinary creations from the head chef. The wine cellar offers fine wines from various countries as well as champagne. Full board is included in the price. Vegetarian or vegan meals are available, and dietary restrictions are accommodated provided they are specified at the time of booking.
HIGHLIGHTS
Sarapiquí
At a family-run finca, guests learn how closely agriculture, environmental awareness, and tradition are intertwined in Costa Rica.
Includes a traditional local lunch.
La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano
In the national park of the same name, hot springs bubble, tropical scents fill the air, and with a little luck, toucans or howler monkeys may make an appearance. Experience the rainforest up close on the suspension bridges of Mistico Park.
Isla Tortuga & Isla Iguana Crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and snorkeling spots teeming with fish— ideal places for swimming and encounters with the marine world.
MEASURES/ SUSTAINABILITY
Wind, the primary energy source for the Star Clipper, is emission-free, making the tall ship intrinsically eco-friendly. As another plus, the ship’s small size keeps its ecological footprint low. The itinerary is optimized using wind charts to increase the proportion of the journey under sail while further reducing fuel consumption. The green philosophy is also consistently carried out inside the ships, for example through the use of biodegradable cleaning products and the production of drinking water via seawater desalination.
BOOKING: https://seatravel.de/
Carina Grammerstorf SeaTravel:
“The journey is well-planned, personally guided, and organized with great care. It is an invitation to immerse yourself in the life, nature, and beauty of Central America.”
Dolphins accompany the ship.
Take a seat on the sea chest.
LUXURIOUS
ADVENTURES
AT SEA
Exclusive Cruises is more than just a book—it’s an invitation to unforgettable experiences at sea. It takes you into the fascinating world of 30 extraordinary cruise experiences that combine the thrill of adventure with luxurious travel. From majestic ocean cruises to intimate river journeys, each route offers remarkable highlights and an insider look at the industry‘s leading names. Opulent ships, exceptional service, and culinary creations by renowned chefs invite travelers to embark in style. Inspiring images and valuable insider tips covering attractions and activities ashore make this Callwey book the perfect companion for anyone looking to explore the world in a luxurious setting.
UNIQUE CRUISE EXPERIENCES FOR EVERY TASTE
DIVERSE ROUTES FROM THE FJORDS OF NORWAY TO THE SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS
INSIDER TIPS AND CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE