Travel

Peruvian Amazon

In Conversation
with Aldo Macchiavello: Founder of Delfin Amazon Cruises

Written by Lightfoot Travel

Founded in 2006 by Aldo Macchiavello and his wife, Lissy Urteaga, Delfin Amazon Cruises is a 100% Peruvian-owned company that has redefined luxury travel in the Peruvian Amazon.

Aldo, a former investment banker, saw a gap in the market for an exclusive river cruise experience in Peru’s untouched Amazon, and together with his wife Lissy, he brought this vision to life.

Over nearly two decades, Delfin has set the standard for boutique, high-end river expeditions while maintaining a deep commitment to sustainability and community engagement. We recently sat down with Aldo to discuss the story behind Delfin Amazon Cruises, his and Lissy’s passion for the Amazon and its communities, what makes the guest experience so special, and his vision for the future.

After decades in investment banking, Aldo sought to create something of his own, something that showcased Peru’s extraordinary landscapes and culture. “After travelling the world, I saw a clear gap in the market for an exclusive river cruise experience in Peru, particularly on the Amazon, where the river is born. There was nothing like this on offer at the time, especially away from mainstream destinations like Machu Picchu,” he recalls. His goal was to deliver a unique soft adventure experience with top-tier service in an underexplored region. Lissy played a crucial role in shaping the guest experience, ensuring that Delfin was not only about luxury but also about contributing positively to the river communities.

This dedication has earned Delfin global recognition, including becoming the first cruise operator invited to join the prestigious Relais & Châteaux Association in 2018.

Pioneering Luxury on the Peruvian Amazon

Supporting Local Communities & Conservation

Lissy’s passion for the Amazon and its people has been at the heart of Delfin’s community support initiatives. “From the start, we knew we couldn’t take a paternalistic approach; instead, we chose a cooperative one,” Aldo explains. Delfin empowers local women by showcasing their crafts onboard, allowing guests to buy directly from artisans. Beyond economic empowerment, the company contributes to local communities through education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects.

Delfin’s sustainability initiatives are vast, from reforestation projects and scientific research on pink river dolphins to educational gardens inspiring the next generation. The company also supports the repopulation of taricaya turtles and a stingless bee project that enhances local livelihoods. “All of these efforts in food security, education, and community engagement reinforce our mission to protect this fragile ecosystem while creating meaningful opportunities for those who call it home,” says Aldo.

Delfin’s vessels are designed for comfort, exclusivity, and a seamless connection with the Amazon. “Lissy’s role in bringing the aesthetic to life was vital,” Aldo notes. “She has an impeccable taste and a deep connection with the Amazon.”

From floor-to-ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views of the ever-changing landscape to locally inspired design elements like hand-woven ceilings and lamps adorned with paiche fish scales, every detail enhances the guest experience. “Our vessels celebrate Peruvian heritage and pay homage to the Amazon, allowing guests to feel immersed in this incredible environment at all times.”

Unparalleled Design & the Guest Experience

The Transformative Power of the Amazon

For Aldo, the Amazon is a place of unparalleled wonder. “For someone like me, always on the move, the jungle offers a rare opportunity to unplug and slow down. Now that I’m a grandfather, sharing these moments with my grandkids is truly special,” he says. Guests experience the same awe, whether witnessing hundreds of birds take flight at sunrise, encountering pink river dolphins in secluded lagoons, or standing beneath an 80-metre-tall tree. “It’s a grounding experience that reminds us how small we are in the grand scheme of nature.”

For well-travelled guests, the Amazon offers an experience unlike any other. “It’s not just about seeing a new place; it’s about truly disconnecting from the world,” Aldo explains. “In our fast-paced lives, we forget what it’s like to slow down and be in the moment.” Locking eyes with a howler monkey or witnessing the Amazon’s raw, untamed beauty is an experience that leaves a lasting impact."

As a pioneer in luxury Amazon cruising, Delfin continues to innovate. “I’m always looking for ways to improve the business and stay ahead of industry standards,” Aldo explains. Lissy, who spends time onboard almost every month, ensures the experience remains fresh and exciting for guests.

This April (2025) marks the unveiling of Delfin’s rebranding, alongside the relaunch of Delfin I following a three-month renovation. Additionally, Delfin is introducing a new Flexitarian menu inspired by Relais & Châteaux’s sustainability pledge with UNESCO. “Sustainability has been a priority for nearly 20 years, and we know there’s always more to do. As locals, this is our home, and it’s our responsibility.”

Pushing Boundaries in Luxury Travel

Defining Luxury in the Amazon

For Delfin, luxury is not just about high-end service - it’s about authenticity and connection. “We provide our guests with the comfort they expect, but the real luxury lies in the opportunity to deeply engage with nature and local communities,” Aldo explains. “Whether it’s exploring the river in a skiff, visiting villages, or simply witnessing the Amazon at sunrise, true luxury is offering something that can’t be found anywhere else.”

With nearly two decades of excellence, Delfin Amazon Cruises continues to set the gold standard for luxury travel in one of the world’s most remarkable destinations. To book your stay onboard, reach out to our expert team of travel consultants and start planning your luxury holiday to Peru.

Photography credits: Photos supplied by Delfin Cruises