Beyond the horizon
Join exclusive expeditions hosted by Aqua Expeditions’ founder, Francesco Galli Zugaro. These journeys offer rare access, an insider's perspective, and firsthand storytelling, drawn from decades of pioneering luxury exploration across the world’s most remote destinations.
Leveraging his expertise in international tourism, Francesco Galli Zugaro founded Aqua Expeditions in 2007 in Peru, becoming the first luxury small-ship river cruise operator in South America. As CEO, he has personally overseen every one of Aqua Expeditions’ vessel launches, setting a leading standard for small-ship expeditions across the globe.
February 6 - 17, 2027 | Aqua Lares
Embark on an exclusive founder-hosted voyage with Francesco Galli Zugaro from Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles, to the Zanzibar archipelago off the coast of Tanzania. The expedition visits biodiversity hotspots including Aldabra, home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises. On Remire and Astove, discover incredible snorkeling and diving, including the four-mile-long Astove Wall, an underwater Grand Canyon home to rays, sharks and reef fish. Farquhar offers a birdwatching paradise, home to rare seabirds including red-footed boobies. In Tanzania, explore a centuries-old spice trade and Arabian culture dating back to the 1300s, with Pemba and Kilwa Kisiwani offering a unique blend of culture and nature, from ancient sultanate ruins to lush hills and rich mangrove forests.
Hosted by Francesco Galli Zugaro
August 27 - September 3, 2027 | Aqua Mekong
Embark on a 7-night voyage along the Mekong River, hosted by founder Francesco Galli Zugaro, and gain rare insights into Southeast Asia’s cultural and ecological treasures. Journey from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City, navigating through Cambodia’s serene river landscapes to Kratie, home to the elusive Irrawaddy dolphins. Explore Khmer villages steeped in tradition, ascend sacred hilltops for panoramic views, and cross into Vietnam to discover vibrant delta towns, lush plantations, and bustling markets. This exclusive expedition blends luxury with deep cultural immersion, guided by stories and perspectives that bring the Mekong’s timeless spirit to life.
Hosted by Francesco Galli Zugaro
November 17 - 29, 2027 | Aqua Blu
Setting sail from Ambon on an exclusive founder-hosted voyage, immerse yourself in the rich colonial heritage of the Banda Islands, where the imposing Fort Belgica overlooks the historic town of Banda Neira. Continue to the Koon group of islands, celebrated for their pristine reefs and world-class snorkeling and diving. In the second half of your expedition, journey east into the remote Asmat region—one of Indonesia’s most enigmatic cultural landscapes. Venture deep into the jungle aboard private speedboats to visit isolated river villages and engage with members of the Asmat tribe, gaining rare insights guided by the founder’s vision and personal stories.
Hosted by Francesco Galli Zugaro
This sailing is currently fully booked.
