Choosing the right cruise for the galapagos. Ecuador is a country that stretches along the equator on the west coast of South America. Its diverse landscapes encompass the Amazon jungle, the Andean highlands and the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands. On the slopes of the Andes, at an elevation of 2,850 m, Quito, its capital, is famous for its long-preserved Spanish colonial center, with decorated 16th- and 17th-century palaces and religious sites.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. It is known as one of the most famous destinations in the world for wildlife watching. It is a province of Ecuador and is located about 1,000 km from its shores. Its isolated terrain is home to a diversity of animal and plant species, many of them unique. Charles Darwin visited in 1835 and his observation of Galapagos species later inspired his theory of evolution
As Latin Roots mention: The archipelago was given its official name in 1892 by the Ecuadorian government on the 400th anniversary of the voyage on Columbus. Before the islands were officially named, they went by English names which it seems they received from a buccaneer Ambrose Cowley in 1684, he created the first navigation charts of the islands. Today almost all of the islands in the archipelago are known by their official names except Santiago and Floreana islands. When the islands were renamed some of them changed and others retained the names given by Cowley. Let’s take a look at the Galapagos islands names and see which ones changed and which stayed the same. The common names are the ones most widely used today but you may still hear/see the old names in use.
Choosing the right Galapagos cruise
13 Main Galapagos Islands Names
- Baltra, South Seymour
- Espanola, Hood
- Fernandina, Narborough
- Floreana, (Santa Maria), Charles
- Genovesa, Tower
- Isabela, Albemarle
- Marchena, Bindloe
- Pinta, Abingdon
- Pinzon, Duncan
- San Cristobal, Chatham
- Santa Cruz, Indefatigable
- Santa Fe, Barrington
- Santiago, (San Salvador), James
How to Choose the Best Cruise to Galapagos – Complete Guide
- Type of Ship: Finding Your Seafaring Sanctuary. …
- Number of Guests Onboard: Intimate or More Social Explorations. …
- Number of Cruise Days: Crafting Your Itinerary. …
- Galapagos Cruise Itineraries: Discovering Untamed Wonders
Choosing the right Galapagos cruise
While it is true that there are a variety of cruises, let me select the two best ones according to our experience.
Aqua Expeditions Galapagos Cruise
Mentioned by them: Over on land, Aqua Mare guests will embark on guided hiking adventures to some of the islands’ hotspots for spotting wildlife. There’ll be opportunities to spot land and marine iguanas — striking creatures which look like they were descendants of the mythical dragons. There’ll also be visits to see the remarkable Giant Tortoises which make for one of the highlights of an expedition to the Galapagos Islands.
The Adventure of a Lifetime
As far as Galapagos tours go, the Aqua Mare offers an expedition unlike any other. Each day offers new adventures, led by our team of naturalist guides who are nothing short of Galapagos experts. This is the perfect chance, not only to see beautiful landscapes and wildlife, but to learn the intricate details behind how they came to be.
Take the opportunity to explore visitor sites such as the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise reserve, where you can find out more about the incredible conservation efforts that help ensure the wellbeing of the Galapagos Islands. 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.
On uninhabited islands such as Fernandina Island and Santiago Island, you’ll get to embark on shore excursions, discovering ancient lava flows and observing the endemic flora and fauna. In an intimate group – with a maximum of 16 guests on our cruise ship – you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience which is curated to your desires.
The Aqua Mare crew is always on the lookout for exotic marine life such as whales and dolphins while sailing. Rest assured; they’ll do their very best to help you bring home memories which can’t be made anywhere else in the world.
&Beyond Galapagos Explorer
With expert interpretation from specially trained and dedicated guides, there are two 7-night set departure itineraries available exploring either the east or west islands of the archipelago. From up-close encounters with iconic species such as the giant Galapagos tortoise and blue-footed boobies to snorkeling in pristine waters teeming with endemic marine life, every voyage is a thrilling adventure of exploration and discovery.
On board the Galapagos Explorer, natural materials and rich textures celebrating local culture harmonies to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden accents and neutral colors seen throughout. Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows fill the spacious guest areas with natural light, providing breathtaking views of the ever-changing landscapes and wildlife wonders of the Galapagos. Indoor and outdoor dining and lounge areas ensure guests are spoilt for choice. While the yacht’s al fresco sundeck located on the uppermost deck boasts a decadent hot tub and comfortable lounge area ideal for whiling away the afternoon. Meticulously appointed air-conditioned accommodation includes four beautiful cabins and two exquisite suites, featuring either portholes or windows. Ensuite bathrooms with luxurious showers and vanities complete the space.
The Galapagos Explorer comprises 4 Decks. The lower deck (Deck 1) consists of two Luxury Cabins and one Superior Suite. The middle deck (Deck 2) features two Luxury View Cabins, an indoor guest dining and lounge area as well as an outdoor, shaded lounge area. The yacht’s upper deck (Deck 3) includes the Deluxe View Suite plus a spacious al fresco deck, bar and guest dining area. To round off the experience, the yacht’s uppermost deck (Deck 4) boasts a sundeck with a hot tub and comfortable sun loungers that overlook panoramic vistas.
