Hunting
Hunting from the River Cruiser takes advantage of mobility, just like fishing from it has for years. The lodge itself floats on the Rio Parana and its enormous network of connecting tributaries and marshlands, all of which are full of both migratory and resident ducks in a multitude of species. This is the second largest river system in all of South America, and provides a habitat for waterfowl unparalleled anywhere else on the continent.
Whichever area is hunting best at any time is where you'll find the boat, and surrounding that point the crew sets up a network of blinds beneath the best of the flyways and feeding areas. Each morning after breakfast and just before dawn hunters embark in singles or pairs with a guide and travel by skiff to their spot, settling in for what usually amounts to a dawn they will never forget. This morning shoot is generally the best of the day, (25 ducks per shooter, or 100 shots) after which everyone returns to the boat for lunch and an optional afternoon nap. Then the afternoon can be spent fishing before a shorter hunt at dusk (10 ducks per shooter, or 40 shots) while the chef is preparing a dinner, some nights with the harvest from that morning's shoot.
Guns can be brought into Argentina by hunters but this requires and lengthy and detailed process of paperwork to accomplish; anyone wishing to go that route should get in touch right away so we can get started.
An easier option is to use ours, and we keep rentals on the boat in these models:
12 gauge Beretta Urika model automatics
12 gauge Beretta A400 model automatics
12 gauge Benelli Vinci model automatics
12 gauge Franchi over/unders
Accommodations
The River Cruiser is a comfortable two-engine mothership with four spacious air conditioned guest bedrooms, each with its own private bath.
A communal dining hall and plenty of open air deck space comfortably set up for cocktails, storytelling, and relaxing provide more than enough room for the entire group.
Telephone, internet (weather and location dependent), and satellite television are all available on board as well.
Cuisine
The River Cruiser is staffed by its own executive chef and service team, providing a diverse blend of local and international cuisine made from fresh ingredients throughout your stay on board, including ducks from the day's shoots. A full bar and excellent selection of fine wines are also available, and guests enjoy the same level of culinary service that they have been accustomed to at our Lago Strobel lodge for many years.
Travel Details
Flights for this program should arrive to the city of Buenos Aires (airport code EZE), then that's it!
Because the boat lodge is mobile and follows hunting conditions up and down the river, some flexibility will always be maintained regarding travel from the airport to the water. Our local team is very good at streamlining this however, and guests can expect that after arriving in Buenos Aires they will enjoy a comfortable ground/water taxi transfer and be unpacking and getting accommodated in the cabins within the shortest time possible. (Generally two to two and a half hours). Often we are able to make a hunt even the day of arrival.
Rates
Always remember, our services are provided absolutely free; booking a trip through Hemispheres Unlimited WILL NEVER COST YOU A SINGLE PENNY MORE than booking it directly with the lodge or outfitter, but does reap the benefits of our extensive experience with that destination, as well as our ongoing support services available to you at any time prior to, during, or even after your trip.
Programs for the Blast & Cast River Cruiser normally run Saturday to Saturday, but arrangements can be made to accommodate almost any travel schedule.
The program is open through May, June, July, and August.
- Standard Program Rate is $950 per night
- Gun rental is $80 per day
- Shells are charged per box with current price quoted at time of booking
What is included:
-Round trip Transfers to/from airport to mothership location
-Lodging aboard in double rooms with en-suite bathrooms
-All meals prepared by our Chef and sous chef
-Full bar including local Argentine wines, beers, and liquors
-Wireless Internet access.
-Guided fishing for Dorado and other species
-Loaner waders if needed
What is not included:
-Flights to and from Resistencia or Corrientes if those entry points are chosen
-Satellite and IP Telephone use
-Tips for the staff and fishing guides
-Fishing equipment
-Laundry
