Tuesday, April 2, 2024

Best Galapagos cruises for an epic wildlife adventure of a lifetime

galapagos cruise luxury

The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II has Wi-Fi, a doctor, SUP gear, a clear-bottom zodiac, a free digital photo kiosk with iMacs, and a spa. Like the Islander II, food brought from the mainland is carefully prepared and packaged to prevent the introduction of invasive species to the Galápagos Islands. A cruise is one of the best ways to see all that this remote Ecuadorian archipelago has to offer. For a detailed step by step guide, be sure to visit our page on How to Get to the Galapagos Islands. Proud to be the first in the industry to achieve CO2 neutrality, Golden Galapagos is setting a new standard for responsible travel.

Best Galapagos cruises for an epic wildlife adventure of a lifetime

And that’s about the end of my list of the top 5 Galapagos luxury cruises. I would suggest you decide what you want to see in the Galapagos and then look at the itineraries that the cruises offer. The Itineraries on the Petrel luxury boat range from 4 – 8 days, and leave every Monday, Wednesday, or Friday, offering amazing cruising options.

Silver Galapagos

These bird species are a rare find as you may only see them in some remote areas of San Cristobal (Punta Pit) and Genovesa. For space reasons, I cannot describe them all but you can check all the itineraries directly on the Liveaboard.com page where you can also choose by your preferred date. Your last stop will be in San Cristobal, the first island where Charles Darwin first landed on. It is now home to the capital of the Galapagos and houses many government offices, as well as part of the Ecuadorian Navy.

The Galápagos’ Top 10 Animals

Across both of Aqua Mare’s itinerary, we visit 16 islands in total. From inhabited islands such as Isabela and Santa Cruz to the remote beaches of Rabida and Mosquera, prepare yourself for an experience that checks off all the boxes. Most of the cruise ships in the Galápagos Islands carry fewer than 20 passengers.

Luxury Expedition Cruise Exploration in the Galapagos: Sailing the Silver Origin with Silversea Cruises - TravelPulse

Luxury Expedition Cruise Exploration in the Galapagos: Sailing the Silver Origin with Silversea Cruises.

Posted: Sat, 07 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Galapagos is a one-of-a-kind destination that most travelers, and especially wildlife enthusiasts, have on their bucket lists. There’s no other place on earth where you can safely get up close to wild animals in their natural habitats. One of our Galapagos experts will happily offer itinerary guidance and answer questions about the journeys we offer. A departure exclusively for children with autism and their families, small groups are rewarded with big experiences. Join in special needs expert Denise Carbon for an unforgettable week on bonding in amazing Galapagos.

Superyacht sailing with Aqua Expeditions

galapagos cruise luxury

Indulge in spa treatments or a sauna, or take a dip in the small swimming pool. In the Restaurant, sumptuous buffets are served at breakfast and lunch, while dinner is a delicious multicourse sit-down affair. So everything looks spiffier -- no chipped paint or worn furnishings -- and everything feels better, too.

The yacht accommodates a limited number of guests, ensuring a more intimate and serene atmosphere, which is ideal for those seeking a personalized adventure. The yachts boast ten deluxe staterooms each, designed for comfort and elegance. Large windows offer expansive sea views, and the rooms are equipped with climate control, luxurious bedding, private modern bathrooms, and ample storage. Each cabin features a variety of high-end amenities including a vanity area, a flat-screen TV, docking stations, and a personal espresso machine. The bathrooms are fitted with rainfall showers and stocked with eco-friendly toiletries. An expedition leader along with onboard naturalists will guide you through your trip.

Galápagos Islands

If your Galapagos flight arrives later than our scheduled flight, additional transportation costs may apply to reach the yacht. Please be aware that any missed excursions cannot be reimbursed when you book your own flights. Guests aboard the Galaxy Sirius can partake in various activities, including snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle-boarding, to explore the captivating marine environment of the Galapagos. Panga rides provide an exciting way to see the diverse shorelines and marine settings up close, and hiking excursions offer vibrant encounters with the archipelago’s unique flora and fauna. Also operated by Metropolitan Touring, the 90-passenger Santa Cruz II is an expedition ship with contemporary decor and comfortable single, double and triple cabins.

galapagos cruise luxury

HOW MUCH DOES A GALAPAGOS CRUISE COST?

The Hermes Catamaran revolutionizes luxury cruising in the Galapagos by offering a perfect blend of comfort, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences both onboard and on land. It challenges the notion that you have to sacrifice comfort on a large cruise ship to enjoy intimacy on a smaller vessel. The Aqua Mare is a yacht offering an exclusive and luxurious cruising experience in the Galapagos Islands. This vessel is designed to provide a high level of comfort, elegance, and personalized service, setting it apart as one of the most prestigious options for exploring the unique archipelago. The best way to explore this secluded corner of the planet is by boat.

That is why we bring to every trip decades of knowledge to offer the most authentic and luxurious experience. If you are able to travel in the upcoming few weeks, take advantage of one of our last-minute deals on a Galapagos luxury cruise. Because these deals sell out very quickly, we recommend contacting one of our expert Galapagos travel advisors by phone or live chat to find out the latest availability and discounts on a luxury Galapagos cruise. Fernandina Island is the Galapagos’ western most isle, located just a stone’s throw off the Isabela Island’s north west coastline. The island is home to the largest colony of marine iguanas in the Galapagos, as well as the flightless cormorant — a bird species that has evolved to swim rather than fly. Located on the western edge of the Galapagos National Park, Isabela Island is the youngest and largest island in the region.

A Luxury Travel Blog is the world’s first and leading luxury travel blog, with over 12,500 articles from more than 800 experts. Despite its size, the Cormorant II promises an eco-friendly, nearly silent cruise experience, offering stability and comfort even in choppy waters. Dining on the Aqua Mare is a culinary journey, with menus featuring a variety of international and local dishes prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, high-quality ingredients.

In 2012, Galapagos National Park began requiring all cruise organizations to wait two weeks before visiting the same landing site. This regulation was introduced to disperse boats more evenly and lighten the environmental load for the Park’s 80+ visitor sites, and resulted in 2-3 cruise itineraries for every ship in Galapagos. Our boutique travel style means deeper experiences with islands, rare wildlife, and Guides. Whether you are traveling together or solo, our itineraries allow you to not only see it all, but feel it all. In addition to three different room types with large windows, Xpedition offers a bevy of suites.

Outdoor options include an aperitif lounge, a spacious sundeck with al-fresco dining, an open area with reclining chairs, and an observation zone. Social spaces on the Main Deck, including a saloon and dining area that opens onto a porch, offer the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor relaxation. The Upper Deck invites guests to stay active in the gym or unwind in the lounge with its dramatic views. The Sundeck, equipped with a Jacuzzi and bar, is an inviting spot for relaxation under the sun. Each day in the Galapagos presents new adventures, whether it’s guided walks along untouched beaches, traversing volcanic formations, or exploring lush vegetation. Guests can immerse themselves in the marine world through Zodiac trips, glass-bottom boat tours, snorkelling, paddle boarding, or kayaking.

Galápagos Islands Luxury Cruises

galapagos cruise luxury

Please note that it is mandatory to use the flights arranged by our cruise company. A penalty fee of USD 50 will be applied if other flights are used. Flight rates and schedules are subject to change without prior notice.

Just Back From…Galápagos Islands on Silver Origin

The entire ship sports a comfortably upscale ambiance, and a favorite hangout is the sun deck with its hot tub and bar. All the ships are Ecuadorian flagged, Ecuadorian crewed and owned by Ecuadorian companies, sometimes in partnership with leading cruise companies. The sailings are year-round, and routes are always subject to change based on park control. The ship only has capacity for 16 passengers with just eight cabins, and a crew of nine to take care of your every need. After touring the Galapagos for four days, there’s a night in Guayaquil before flying up to San Jose to explore the San Ramon cloud forest and hike through the breathtaking lava fields in the Arenal National Park.

Audley Travel

All cabins feature A/C, private balconies, and en-suite bathrooms. All cabins are spacious and nicely decorated with spectacular pictures of the underwater world. Also both the indoor and outdoor common spaces offer luxury decor and comfortable sitting areas, a jacuzzi, and a sundeck from where you can spot the incredible wildlife.

Only the very best routes on board the finest ships make this selection

Also, keep in mind that because they are small cruises they fill out fast, so make sure you plan and book in advance. The 8 beautiful staterooms boast a sleek and modern decor with spectacular sea-themed pictures over the walls ample space and the most modern high-end amenities. Guests will enjoy the delicious international buffet for breakfast and lunch, and dinner served a la carte either indoors or outdoors. Wine lovers will also be able to choose from the well-stocked wine cellar. Here you will have the chance to enjoy some adventure with snorkeling and kayaking while admiring the surrounding thriving nature.

galapagos cruise luxury

Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. One of the most important Parks on earth, it hosts 13 main islands, 6 secondary ones and dozens of volcanic islets, and 97% of the archipelago is protected. As on sibling Endeavour II, dining means buffet breakfasts, buffet or family-style lunches (or an alternative light meal on deck) and plated dinners.

galapagos cruise luxury

Family Galápagos & Ecuador Vacations

Another option I always recommend is to spend some time on the island before and after the cruise to explore all the amazing things you can do and make the most of your time. Although they are both amazing experiences they offer two very distinctive trips and you need to know where they go and which one to choose. INCLUDED – transfers to and from the airport, VAT, water, and soft drinks, all meals, tea & coffee, kayaks, land tours, snorkeling equipment, toiletries, towels, fuel surcharge, and port fees.

Origin, Theory & Evolve

If you’re looking for something a bit more intimate, Golden Galapagos’ state-of-the-art mega catamaran, Elite, is worth considering. The 123-foot luxury yacht hosts just 16 passengers and features a semi-covered sky deck for dining al fresco. Santa Cruz is the Galapagos Islands’ main tourism hub and second largest island located at the heart of the Archipelago. It hosts the most of the local population of the region in Puerto Ayora, a charming city where the region’s endemic flora and fauna thrive alongside the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Discover Santa Cruz Island on both of our Galapagos cruise itineraries. Next, as you set sail, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature and feel as if you’re among the first people discovering uncharted territories.

The dining area serves gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, accommodating dietary preferences and offering a taste of the local cuisine alongside international dishes. Onboard amenities include a large sundeck with a Jacuzzi, loungers, and an al fresco dining area where guests can savour meals while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the islands. The yacht also features a well-appointed lounge and bar area, perfect for socializing or relaxing after a day of excursions. Dining on the yachts meets the exquisite standards of Relais & Chateaux, with dishes prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, local ingredients. The sophisticated dining area allows for both private and communal seating arrangements.

Explore the Galápagos in Luxury with AndBeyond's New Expedition Yacht - stupidDOPE.com

Explore the Galápagos in Luxury with AndBeyond's New Expedition Yacht.

Posted: Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Also, Santa Cruz and Isabela Island have so many activities to offer that you could stay a month and never get bored. There are infinite free things to do in San Cristobal Island and places that you won’t have time to see when you visit on the cruise. As I mentioned before you need to know what you want to visit and what kind of wildlife you want to see to choose the best itinerary for you. “Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps” instead focuses on the southeastern islands. Setting off from San Cristobal you will be visiting Española Island, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana, Rabida, North Seymour, and Black Turtle Cove.

Every month is filled with wonder and delight, other-worldly wildlife encounters, and underwater radiance. To reach the islands, you must first arrive in mainland Ecuador (either Quito or Guayaquil), then take a quick flight directly to your Galapagos cruise port. Together with our sustainability partners, every Galapagos luxury cruise with Quasar supports restoring, improving, and protecting the islands.

Also, some areas of the Galápagos may be off limits to larger ships. All cabins on the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II have windows, and some even have private patios. The ship offers deck hammocks, Wi-Fi, and food made with ingredients sourced from farms in the Galápagos whenever possible. Itineraries range from seven to 12 days and include cultural experiences in addition to wildlife viewing and water sports. If you are considering a hotel-based visit, one major problem you’ll face is how to access the Galapagos National Park.

The inviting living room offers a relaxing space to socialize with fellow travellers, while the alfresco lounge allows for immersive enjoyment of the Galapagos’ stunning vistas. The dining room presents an elegant setting to enjoy the exquisite meals prepared by expert chefs, and the sun deck is an ideal place to feel the sea breeze, stargaze, or bask in the sun while admiring the panoramic views. Origin, Theory, and Evolve offer two distinct itineraries that capture the essence of the Galapagos, from its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas to its intriguing marine life and historical significance. Guests can opt for a comprehensive 7-night tour of selected islands or a two-week journey exploring the entire archipelago. Comprising nine opulent cabins across two decks, The Grace epitomizes luxury at sea. The Albert Deck houses two Twin Suites and two Master Suites, each boasting ocean-view windows, alongside the captain’s bridge and al-fresco amenities.

Angermeyer Cruises has made significant efforts to protect the marine life, partnering with WildAid to create the Galapagos Conservation Fund to help tackle illegal fishing and the threat of invasive species. Be the first to know about our itineraries, and receive exclusive offers, destination articles and more. The first destination specific ship built by Silversea, Silver Origin is the height of experiential travel in the Galapagos.

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