US-based Haimark is launching a luxurious expedition river boat to cruise the Peruvian Amazon this autumn.

The Amazon Discovery is due to enter service in October and will be offering seven-night cruises round-trip from Iquitos. Highlights on the journey include a visit to Monkey Island, home to eight species of endangered Peruvian primates, a hike along the Yarapa River and a piranha-fishing expedition.

The week-long voyage also includes a visit to a Manatee Rescue Centre, a tour of Iquitos and a trip to the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers, which is considered to be where the Amazon begins.

Haimark, which is sold in the UK through Perl River Cruises, said the vessel will be luxurious yet suited perfectly to the wild environs of the river. It will hold 44 passengers in 22 suites measuring from 237 to 597 square feet, all with floor-to-ceiling windows.

It will also have an outdoor spa and carry a team of English-speaking naturalists to guide the excursions and talk about the flora and fauna of the region.

Prices this year start from $3,799 per person cruise-only including daily trips ashore, soft drinks, local beer, cocktails based on the local pisco brandy, wine with dinner and in-suite bottled water.