Scuba Dive, First Class Yacht, Wildlife Viewing, Sea Kayak
Destinations:
Galapagos Islands, Galapagos Islands
Min/Max group size:
2
-
20
Comfort:
First Class
Difficulty:
Easier
*Details may vary with dates. Select dates to see exact details.
detour Opinion: Is this trip for me?
Ecoventura is one of the premier agencies operating Galapagos trips. They have been leaders in sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands, and continue to add environmental initiatives to help protect the fragile ecosystem of the islands. They are well-known for providing top-quality Galapagos tours. Small guide-to-passenger ratio (one expert guide for every 10 passengers) ensures intimate visits on shore.
Their trips emphasize outdoor activities, such as nature walks, snorkeling, and kayaking, in addition to birdwatching and marine biology. All cabins onboard are outside-facing with a window or portholes, air-conditioning and private bath, hair dryers and beach towels.
Ecoventura is the only company in Galapagos that provides snorkeling equipment (masks, fins and snorkels), custom wet suits (in various sizes for men, women and children) and clear-bottom sea kayaks (two doubles per yacht) at no additional cost.
Great Value in First Class 20-passenger Yachts with Fabulous Itineraries
These identical Superior first-class 20-passenger motor-yachts, the M/Y Eric, Flamingo I and Letty, were custom-designed for Galapagos excursions. They offer tremendous value for superior comfort in spacious accommodations for small groups.
Built in 1991 and refurbished every year, each yacht features ten double outside facing cabins located on three decks with polished teak wood interiors, window view or portholes, fully air conditioned throughout, private bath facilities with fresh, hot-and-cold-water shower, hair dryer, toiletries, roomy closet and drawers, overhead storage, separate climate controls, ionizer (iguana and booby deck only), intercom system, life vests, bottled water and fresh towels. Public areas include a dining room, well-stocked bar and conference area with 29" flat screen television, DVD player, board games, library of books and DVDs. Stereo cassette/CD equipment is available on the bridge.
Picture windows surround the upper two decks and offer a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean and landscape. Enjoy sea breezes, sunshine or a sky full of stars on lounge chairs and recliners located on the sun deck and observation points.
A seasoned Captain, eight dedicated crew members, and two experienced English-speaking naturalist guides attend to the details of your Galapagos cruise. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than 10 passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the Islands ' diverse wildlife. Small wooden boats, locally called pangas, ferry passengers to shore for Island visits.
Start each day with a casual breakfast buffet that includes fresh, exotic fruit juices, eggs cooked to order, toast, café con leche and a variety of cereals. At lunch, enjoy a buffet of crisp salads, healthy Pastas, assorted fresh vegetables, produce, meats and fish all creatively prepared. Unwind in the evening with creamy soups, ceviche, grilled seafood, roasted potato salad, unique deserts, and other delicacies both Ecuadorian and international cuisines.
Departures are all inclusive . There is no extra charge for beverages (mineral water, soda or juice). And, snorkeling equipment, custom wet suits, beach towels and sea kayaks are available at no additional cost.
Trips depart from San Cristóbal every Sundays and offer week-long, comprehensive itineraries to visit the islands' most spectacular sites.
There are three cabin categories available on each of these yachts.
Pricing listed is for the Iguana Deck. There are also cabins available on The Booby Deck and The Dolphin Deck. The Iguana Deck: cabins average 110 square feet and have have two twin lower beds and port lights. The Booby Deck: cabins average 90 square feet and cabins have one double bed and picture windows. The Dolphin Deck: cabins average 95 square feet and have two twin lower beds and picture windows, with one cabin having one double bed and picture window.
Abbreviated Itinerary
SUN: San Cristobal / Playa Ochoa / Leon Dormido
MON: Prince Philip’s Steps, / Darwin Bay, Tower (Genovesa)
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IGUANA DECK
* Cabins #7 & 8 have two twin lower beds and port lights.
* Cabins # 9 & 10 have two twin lower beds and one upper berth with port lights. These two cabins can be sold as triples.
* Cabins average 110 square feet
BOOBY DECK
* Cabins # 5 & 6 cabins have one double bed and picture windows.
* Cabins average 90 square feet
DOLPHIN DECK
* Cabins #1,3 & 4 have two twin lower beds and picture windows.
* Cabin # 2 has one double bed and picture window.
* Cabins average 95 square feet
SINGLE cabins are assigned by Ecoventura to the best cabin available at the time of sailing.
WILLING TO SHARE FEMALE (WSF) OR WILLING TO SHARE MALE (WSM)
Same share gender requests are available on the Iguana deck only. Shares that remain unmatched 30 days prior to departure are subject to a 15% supplement.
There is a maximum of one share confirmed per sailing.
TRIPLE cabins are available on the Iguana deck only in cabins I9 and I1 ...view more details
Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?
Our signature fleet of three identical Superior first-class 20-passenger motor-yachts, M/Y Eric, Flamingo I and Letty, were custom-designed for Galapagos excursions. The sister yachts offer tremendous value for superior comfort in spacious accommodations for small groups.
We hold a solid reputation for delivering personalized service, value, and a high level of satisfaction.
At Ecoventura, we underscore the enchantment of the Galapagos with our dedication to details that make your journey fun, comfortable, and truly rewarding.
SCUBA DIVING
Occasional scuba diving offered onboard the Ecoventura yachts:
Ecoventura offers an opportunity for certified scuba divers to dive on Friday and Saturday during the cruise. Diving is offered every week with a minimum of 3 divers on Friday and 3 divers on Saturday. The maximum number of divers we accept is eight. If you are the only person in your travel party that would like to dive, please inquire as we may already have other guests signed up for diving
Local Dive Operator
All diving is provided by a local dive shop in Galapagos; Sub-Aqua is the oldest dive center in the Galapagos Islands. The dive center is located in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, and it opened for business in 1991 by Fernando Zambrano, founder of the company and currently its Executive Director, a professional instructor who has been diving since 1979. He is also an oceanographer, certified commercial diver and naturalist park guide. Today Sub-Aqua is the largest and most prestigious dive center in the Galapagos Islands and consists of an international team of professional dive masters and instructors who follow very high safety standards. They are also certified as PADI Resort under the number 17365 since 2001.
All divers will need to fill out, sign and return an experience form as required by the local dive shop. This form will also request your approximate size in order to have the dive equipment ready for you.
The final sites will be determined by Sub-Aqua on the day of the service, taking into consideration the experience level of the divers and weather conditions including currents. Most dives are drift dives along the cliff faces of off-shore rocks and pinnacles.
Equipment provided
Divers are required to bring their own mask, snorkel and open water diving certification. The dive shop will supply you with filled tanks, weights and weight belt, a wet suit 5-7mm, hood, fins and boots, regulator and guages (depth and pressure) and buoyancy compensator vest. You may want to bring an underwater camera, computer, video camera and gloves.
Divers are required to sign an indemnity form stating that the operator of the dive boat is not responsible for any failure in the equipment which the divers use.
Galapagos dive guides
We will supply an expert dive Instructors and/or dive master. The guide is a qualified diver with essential knowledge of specific diving locations with their respective interest and dangers.
Marine Reserve and Park Regulations
The following rules have been established in order to preserve the Islands marine ecosystems. One should respect the marine environment and do not engage in any activities that might damage it. Control your movements while diving. Practice neutral buoyancy control during all dives. Catching or collecting marine life is strictly forbidden with few exceptions. Spear fishing is also forbidden. Any artifacts found on the bottom may not be removed.
Water temperature
From November to June, the water temperature averages 75 degrees ferenheit with February to April the warmest time. Water temperature from July to October averages 70 degrees ferenheit and can fall below 70 degrees in August and September.
Water Currents
There are several major currents that influence the water temperatures throughout the archipelago. It is a general rule that the northern islands (Wolf, Darwin, Marchena, Genovesa and Pinta) are the warmest. The central islands are cooler but highly variable, depending on localized upwelling (Santa Cruz, Santiago, Floreana, Espanola, Pinzon and Santa Fe). The coolest part is located on the western side (Isabela and Fernandina). Some currents run parallel to the coast and are greatly influenced by tidal change. They are also localized down currents and upwelling. Even though divers may be experienced, it is a good idea to take the advice of the Divemaster.
Insurance and safety
There is no insurance included in the programs and we highly recommend all divers to have their DAN (Divers Alert Network) insurance before going to the Galapagos (cost per year for Standard Insurance US$ 69 and for Master Insurance US$ 79 including the annual membership).
For more information, Divers Alert Network
Hyperbaric chamber fee: Located in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, a hyperbaric chamber has the most recent technology and trained professional medics to treat dive related illness.
Note: Sub-Aqua is the operator and responsible party of the diving programs available to passengers on the Eric, Flamingo or Letty. Ecoventura, S.A. and its affiliates act only as a coordinator in the organization of the services.
Cancellations
There is no penalty charged for cancellations received 60 days or more prior to departure. If two people signed up for diving and one cancels, we cannot provide diving for just one person as we have a two person minimum.
Cancellations received 59-30 days prior to departure receive 50% refund if there are 2 or more divers remaining to dive, otherwise there is no refund. There is no refund for cancellations received 29-30 days prior to departure.
DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS
The Galapagos Islands house many of nature’s most bizarre creations. Almost one quarter of the marine life in Galapagos is endemic to this archipelago - 17% of its fish and 35% of its marine invertebrates - are found nowhere else in the world. In fact, the marine community of Galapagos is one of the most unique and exotic places on earth. Here, penguins swim with tropical fish. Iguanas feed underwater. Sealions play like puppies in the waves and perform underwater ballet. The creatures of the sea exhibit the same bold curiosity and lack of fear characteristic of terrestrial wildlife.
Swept by both the cold waters of Antarctica and warm currents from the tropical Pacific, Galapagos’ colorful marine life is a bizarre mixture of species. Great schools of fish cruise the open water, at times, so thick they nearly block out the sun. And the reefs are an amazing profusion of invertebrate life. Galapagos is known for its “big stuff” including the giant manta ray, whale shark and schools of hammerhead sharks.
To visit these islands is an experience like none other - there is a mystical aura about them that captivates all visitors. Its remoteness, untouched landscape, native plants and animals and dramatic seascapes all combine to assure a most forgettable adventure.
In order to protect this wealth of sea life against abuses by man, the Galapagos Marine Reserve, with waters totaling 27,000 square miles, was signed into law in 1986 to protect marine life 15 nautical miles offshore. As part of the Special Law of Galapagos, signed in 1998, the Galapagos Marine Reserve was extended to reach 40 nautical miles offshore.
FAMILY DEPARTURES
Travel with your family to Galapagos:
Ecoventura welcomes families with children ages seven and up on all expedition vessels throughout the year. This natural wonderland offers the best of a classroom zoo, science center, aviary, marine park and a cruise vacation all rolled into one. Our naturalists know how to bring these Islands they love to life and to balance learning with fun for the entire family.
Our designated family departures are geared towards families who prefer to travel with other families. Designated departures are offered over school breaks in the US and feature age-appropriate activities depending on the ages and number of children or teenagers on board.
We offer kid-friendly meals.
For breakfast: hot chocolate, milk, apple juice, orange juice, fruit loops, lucky charms or other kid cereals, pancakes, fresh fruit, bagels with crème chese, muffins.
For lunch: hot dogs, hamburgers, turkey or tuna sandwich.
For dinner: plain pastas, spaghetti with marinara sauce, parmesan cheese, macaroni and cheese, chicken fingers, steak, French fries, baked potato, vegetables.
Desert: Ice crème, Jell-O, cakes
Snacks: pizzas, popcorn, pretzels, chips
Kids can visit the bridge and learn about astronomy, navigational charts and tie nautical knots with our Captain. Special parties including movies and popcorn, games with prizes, drawing contests, make your own ice cream sundae and our King Neptune costume party and talent show. We also have board games, books and DVDs on board that are suitable for children as well as snorkeling equipment, life vests and wet suits in child sizes.
2008 Family departures with cabins on the Eric, Flamingo or Letty: Aug 24-30, Nov 23-30.
Child discounts: Children age 11 years and younger at the time of sailing are entitled to a 25% discount off the cruise rate. Children ages 12-14 years are entitled to a 15% discount off the cruise rate. Children 11 years and younger are entitled to 50% discount off the airfare and park tax with photocopy of the child's passport showing date of birth. Child discounts are applied to cabins on the iguana deck unless not otherwise available. No child discounts are permitted on holiday departures (H) over the Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays.
Age restrictions: Children under 7 years of age are not accepted unless the parents or legal guardians sign a hold harmless release. Children age 5 and 6 are permitted only on a designated family departure. Children under the age of 5 are only permitted on exclusive charter basis.
Other conditions: We allow only one child discount to be given per every adult fare paid. And, Ecoventura may limit the number of child discounts permitted on any one departure. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 12 are not confirmed to Booby deck cabins. When children are accommodated in a triple cabin, the discount is calculated from the double iguana deck rate. ...view more details
Sunday: San Cristobal / Playa Ochoa / Leon Dormido
Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL Island, our crew is waiting at the airport to escort you to your anchored yacht. After the welcome briefing and safety drill we set sail for Playa Ochoa, where we have a chance to test our snorkeling equipment and at the same time swim with a small colony of sea lions. Behind the beach, there is a tidal lagoon where bird can be spotted including the rare Chatham mockingbird.
At sunset, we cruise around Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a vertical tuff cone formation that abruptly juts up almost 500 feet out of the ocean. On the cliffs, we find blue-footed boobies, masked boobies and magnificent frigate birds.
Monday: Darwin Bay/ Prince Philip’s Steps, Tower
We spend the entire day on TOWER (Genovesa), considered to be one of the most spectacular Islands in Galapagos for bird species. This morning, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip’s Steps. Red-footed boobies nest here in Palo Santo trees and Nazca (formerly masked) boobies nest near the trail. In an open lava field, we find storm petrels in large numbers. If you are lucky, we will see the elusive short-eared owl.
After lunch, sea kayaks are available to paddle along the shoreline. Look for the beautiful red-billed tropic bird usually seen in a crevice. A snorkeling opportunity is offered along the inner rim of the volcanic crater. We land on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where swallow-tailed and lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigate birds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich inter tidal zone where we find a wide diversity of animal life. Swim and snorkel from the beach with sea lions in these northern warmer waters. We set sail early to motor to the western islands during a briefing, followed by dinner.
This morning, we have a semi-wet landing at Punta Espinoza, Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine island in the Galapagos. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in the Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territory. Flightless Cormorants build their nest on the point and Galapagos Hawks fly overhead.
After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Chanel where we often spot whales and dolphins riding the bow wave. This afternoon, we have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western island of Isabela. Six volcanos flowed together and formed the larges island in the Galapagos. During the walk, we discover a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations. Graffiti dating back to the 1800’s is written on the rocky cliffs. Explore the Coves by Zodiac or in one of our clear-bottom sea kayaks to find Galapagos penguins, boobies, pelicans and other seabirds. An excellent snorkeling opportunity is offered here after the walk. After the briefing and dinner, a sky full of stars beckons to go out on deck and gaze.
Wednesday: Puerto Egas, Santiago (James) / Sombrero Chino, Santiago
This morning, we have a wet landing at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James). Stroll along the shoreline looking for octopus, starfish and other sea life caught in the tide pools. At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, American oysterchatchers and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, there is a snorkeling opportunity with loads of tropical fish. As an alternative, you may use the kayaks to explore the marine life without getting wet. During lunch, the yacht motors to the other side of the island providing a chance to take in the beautiful scenery.
Located off the Southern tip of Santiago, SOMBRERO CHINO or Chinese Hat owes its name to its shape. After a wet beach landing with sea lion colonies, the trail gives way to a primeval landscape of volcanic rubble including cracked lava formations and lava tubes. The lava tubes are fragile and one must be careful to stay on the trail. We find marine iguanas and pairs of oystercatchers. There are good picture opportunities here as this site conveys a strong feeling that you've come to a very special place in the world. There is a briefing followed by dinner as we anchor in a calm, protected area.
Thursday: Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome / North Seymour
On Bartolome, it seems like we are walking on the moon. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals. After a dry landing, climb 30 minutes up stairs leading to the summit of a once active volcano. Along the way, we pause to marvel at lava bombs, spatter cones and cinder cones. From the top of the wooden stairs, we can gaze out across the island for a panoramic view of the island and "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal clear water is an invitation to snorkel with schools of tropical fish and Galapagos Penguins. On the other side of the Island, encounter sea turtles and white-tipped sharks.
This afternoon, we have a dry landing at North Seymour, a small geological uplift. We follow a trail that leads us to swallow-tailed gulls, blue-footed boobies and the endemic land iguanas. Visit the largest colony of magnificent frigate birds found in the Galapagos. As we stroll along the beach, we find marine iguanas and sea lions body surf the northern swells. After the walk there is a snorkeling opportunity offered in deep water.
Friday: Highlands, Santa Cruz / Darwin Station
This morning we travel by bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. The scenery gradually changes as we wind our way through all seven vegetation zones found in Galapagos. Here, we visit the tortoise reserve at one of the private farms in the highlands where we encounter giant tortoises in their natural habitat. We visit Los Gemelos, Spanish for “The Twins”, a pair of large pit craters where we find the bright red male vermilion flycatcher. We stop at "the tunnels", the largest lava tubes found in Galapagos.
After lunch on board, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. We visit all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. We also visit the Van Straelen Hall where there are exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can now see the pen of Lonesome George, the last surviving member of the Pinta Island subspecies. Stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 20,000) and the largest town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards or kick back at an internet cafe in the social heart of the Islands.
Saturday: Punta Suarez, Espanola (Hood) / Gardner Bay, Espanola (Hood)
This morning, we have a dry landing at Punta Suarez, ESPANOLA, where we witness the highest rate of endemic species in Galapagos. Sea lions noisily greet us as we land on their beach. Curious Hood mockingbirds peck at our shoelaces. From April to November, the waved albatross, found only on Espanola, perform their wild mating ritual. Colonies of blue-footed boobies engage in “sky-pointing” to show off for potential mates. Nazca (formerly masked) boobies busily care for their young. Stunning swallow-tailed gulls are the only nocturnal gulls in the world. Red-billed tropicbirds take shelter under the cliffs. We also find Darwin’s Finches, Galapagos Doves and Galapagos Hawks. Observe a unique specie of marine iguana identified with traces of red and green colorings. Colorful sally light-foot crabs crawl along the shoreline near to the famous "blow hole". This is the scene most people envision when they decide to visit Galapagos.
During lunch, we motor to the other side of the island. On our last afternoon in Galapagos, we have a wet landing on Gardner Bay, ESPANOLA (HOOD). Walk along seemingly endless stretches of sandy beach where you’ll find large colonies of sea lions. There is no trail to follow so this is a chance to explore and you may find a Galapagos Hawk, Darwin’s Finches or Hood Mockingbird. Swim with sea lions from the beach. There’s an excellent snorkeling site off Gardner Islet with a colorful diversity of sea life near Gardner Islet and Tortuga Rock with caves covered with invertebrates. Kayaking is permitted at this particular site. Back on board, enjoy the Captain's Farewell cocktail followed by dinner and a briefing.
Sunday: Interpretation Center - Puerto Baquerizo / San Cristobal
This morning, we drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL. We visit the Interpretation Center opened in 1999. Here we gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Islands. Afterwards, we head straight to the airport for our flight back to the mainland.
Almost all passengers visiting the Galapagos Islands must overnight in mainland Ecuador (either Quito or Guayaquil) both before and after their cruise. Ecoventura has chosen the highest quality hotels in both cities offering comfort, convenience, charm and also value. Please enquire.
Request these additional services when you check availability above
What's Included
- cabin accommodations
- all meals and snacks and
- non-acoholic beverages, mineral water, Captains welcome and fairwell cocktail
- guide services
- shore excursions
- use of wet suits, snorkeling equipment and sea kayaks
- transfers in the islands between the airport and the dock.
Not Included
- Flights and travel tax to and from Galapagos
- Galapagos entrance fee ($100 US adult, $50 US children)
- alcoholic beverages
- gratuities to guides and crew
To review this trip please register or login (if already registered).
Overall Rating:
8 customer reviews
Destination:
5.0
Activity:
4.5
Equipment:
4.5
Food:
4.3
Guides & Service:
3.9
Provider Rating: 9 trip reviews
Equipment:
4.5
Food:
4.3
Guides & Service:
3.9
Social & Environmental Responsibility:
4.4
Trip Rating:
The Galapagos on the Letty
by Joyce P., Proficient,
Apr 01, 2010
The trip was fabulous!! We were on the Letty and everything was perfect. The weather even cooperated. Our naturalists, Ceci and Maria, were wonderful. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone. All the arrangements worked great and I thank you.
Again, this was a trip of a life time. Thanks Detour!
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Abbi's Galapagos
by Abbi P., Minimal Experience,
Mar 11, 2010
This was a dense, active and visually and experientialy amazing trip! A nature walk on steroids. Loved the biodiversity, incredible landscapes, deep water snorkeling, the wow factor at every turn. I was happy to be with a small group of 19 active adults (no kids) and more often than not, we were the only group visiting a particular site. This was a great trip!
Would have liked more local dishes, but food was plentiful and good.
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Fantastic Trip on the Flamingo I
by badger1, Experienced,
Nov 19, 2008
Our tour of the Galapagos Islands on the Flamingo I was a trip of a lifetime. We went in mid-September, which is the low season in the Galapagos Islands, because the temperatures are a bit cooler (highs usually in the mid-70s) and the open seas are a bit rougher than at other times of year. But we found it to be a wonderful time to visit, and a great trip. At that time of year the blue footed boobies were not mating, so we did not see their dance, but frigate birds on one island were mating, so we saw their inflated pouches on their necks. And we saw amazing wildlife of all other sorts. On land we saw thousands of marine iguanas, along with a much smaller number of land iguanas, as well as turtles and sea lions. We also snorkeled and dove with playful sea lions, saw innumerable red footed boobies, blue footed boobies, frigate birds, herons, penguins, flightless cormorants, finches, hawks, and other birds. Snorkeling and diving we saw not only the sea lions, but also swimming penguins, more colorful tropical fish than I expected, schools of eagle rays, manta rays, eels, many, many turtles, and probably about a dozen sharks (white tip reef sharks, black tip reef sharks, galapagos sharks, and some in our group saw hammerheads), among other things. While on the Flamingo I we were also very fortunate to see whales on several occasions, and twice we saw pods of dolphins.
This trip has a particularly attractive itinerary, compared to some of the other itineraries offered by other companies. In addition to the usual islands visited by most companies, Ecoventura boats travel to some of the more distant islands, including Genovesa and Fernandina. Genovesa was the only place we saw red footed boobies, and had some of the best up-close encounters with large numbers of birds. Fernandina is a very beautiful island with huger numbers of marine iguanas, impressive lava formations, and lots of sea turtles. I would not want to miss either island.
The boat and crew were fantastic. The boat is very spacious and comfortable. Our cabin was on the dolphin deck, which is the top deck. Our cabin was clean and attractive, and had a large picture window that offered beautiful views. The public areas--including the ship-top decks and the bar, lounge, and dining areas, were also attractive and comfortable. The crew was friendly and a lot of fun, including offering some surprise entertainment that was a lot of fun. The food was always delicious, abundant, and presented beautifully. Our guide was knowledgeable and spoke English well, even though it obviously was his second language. I have noted that other reviewers have not been fully satisfied with their guides. I did not have that experience, but do note that the guides in the Galapagos are not regular employees of the various trip providers. Rather, they are all independent contractors who move around from boat to boat. Therefore, I don't think you can get a guarantee of a good or a bad guide on any of the trips with any of the companies. On our trip, we had good guides.
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Galapagos on the Eric
by Judy W., Proficient,
Jun 02, 2008
Ecoventura offered exactly the itinerary we were interested in. We saw the islands we wanted to see with excellent interpretation from our guides. The hiking and snorkeling were first rate. The food was excellent and abundant,
the crew was friendly and helpful.
We would have preferred not to have been in the farthest forward cabin on the lower deck - we kept being awakened by the slapping of the waves against the bow. Also, when the anchor was raised or lowered it was VERY loud!
However, that didn't interfere with our total enjoyment of the trip. The small size (20 passengers) was ideal. Ecoventurarepresentatives in Guayaquil were very helpful in getting us on our flight to the islands. We also really appreciate the environmental consciousness of this company.
Katie French with Detour was very helpful to us in booking our trip. It was a great experience all the way around!
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The Letty Galapagos Cruise
by Wendy K., Proficient,
Apr 14, 2008
We had a great time on the Galapagos Cruise. Our guides were very engaging and informative and everything was timed just right. We had the right amount of activity, food and leisure time every day. We are not "cruising" people and were apprehensive at first about being stuck on a boat for 7 days but we didn't feel "stuck" given the number of excursions we had each day and the fact that we snorkeled at least once or twice a day. We also extended our trip on the Islands and stayed at a hotel but definitely would recommend a cruise over staying on the islands. The islands gets very hot and there are lots of mosquitoes but on the boat there is shade, wind and no bugs! Great amount of variety of animals and geography we saw. Sad to leave!
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A gem for nature lovers
by Jamie B., Proficient,
Apr 11, 2008
This trip was a gem for people like us who like nature, hiking andsnorkeling. It had 20 guests on board with eight crew. The ship was very
well laid out with room for sunning or shade. The guides were EXCEPTIONAL!!! They set the tone of the tour. They were fun, knowledgeable
and tried to make your trip a pleasure. Please understand the ship is not a luxery cruise ship, but it was clean, comfortable and able to get us in close to all island destinations. From there we would take a zodiak raft to shore. With just 20 passengers this was accomplished very quickly. The islands were everything we had imagined and more. There were tons of birds,
reptiles and fish to see. All the time. The snorkeling was a great way to see some that you see on land operate in the ocean, ie: penguins, sea lions and marine iguanas. The fish were large, in large schools and many
beautiful colors. In short, we would highly reccommend the destination and the ship too.
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Fabulous Trip
by Stacy A., Proficient,
Mar 04, 2008
The trip was fabulous. I appreciated that the boats were divided up by age. Our group was well matched and we got along very well. The activities were great fun and the staff were a part of the fun. They got along well and enjoyed each other which made our trip even better. Loved the snorkeling and the animals. So amazing. Thanks for such a great trip!
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Galapagos on the Eric
by Penny M., Proficient,
Feb 07, 2008
We made this trip with another couple who are friends of ours, and all of us felt that the boat, its crew, the crew's service were excellent, and the islands were an incredible place to visit. However, we had two guides - neither of whom were very proficient in English. We therefore received a minimal amount of information (sometimes repeated over and over) and were frequently confused about where we were going, what we were seeing, doing. Sometimes we received different answers to the same questions. It was hard to tell whether or not they had a true passion for islands because their English language skills were so poor. I applaud the effort of Ecoventura to hire and support local guides, but they should be sure the guides are prepared. We learned more about the islands, birds, the environmental concerns of Ecoventura and the science community at large from the brochure in our cabin than we did during the 7 days of our trip.
I have travelled with other tour companies, and have experienced different degrees of excellence in guiding, from average to superior. I believe an excellent guide can make a poorly operated trip into a fantastic experience, and the reverse can hold true as well. These two guides with Ecoventura were the worst guides I have ever experienced, and although we enjoyed the trip despite them (mainly because the destination was so remarkable and the rest of the crew were so good), I could not recommend this company to other travellers.
As an aside, we were sent an itinerary before we departed which the boat was not able to follow because the San Cristobal airport had not yet opened. If possible, it would have been a thoughtful addition if we had received some type of notification regarding this prior to our arrival. It is always nice to feel as though one is being updated.
We chose this company on Greg Findlay's advice, and it did appear as though the guides on the other Ecoventura boats were better, and the passengers more active, but I do believe you all should know that there are potential problems with Ecoventura. By the way, my rating of their social responsibility is based on the lack of information we received from anyone on board. It appeared that an effort was being made to be socially and environmentally responsible, but other than the brochure, we received no information in this regard.
Having given this negative review, I must say that we enjoyed ourselves in spite of the poor guides. It helped to have friends accompanying us, and we were lucky to have no complainers on board. Besides, the food and wine were great!
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Response from Ecoventura to Detour about this trip:
This is not something we normally hear. Our yachts are unique because we have two guides instead of just one. It is difficult to always have two guides at similar levels on all three yachts. Ideally, we would have two experienced guides. However, these days there is a shortage of high-level guides in Galapagos. It is a constant struggle to maintain high level guides.
Unfortunately, on this particular week on the Eric, we had two less experienced guides on board which was a mistake. Operations was trying to prevent the situation of having two different level guides! I have brought this to the attention of our Operations Manager so that it does not happen again. Dolores Galarza (Lolita) is going to Guayaquil in a few weeks to take intensive English courses.
Thank you for your feedback. It only enables us to continue to improve.
Doris J. Welsh
Trip Rating:
Destination:
Equipment:
Activity:
Food:
Guides & Service:
The Galapagos on The Eric
by Merrily B., Proficient,
Feb 07, 2008
The captain and crew aboard The Eric were excellent. The food was wonderful and the crew all worked very hard to keep us safe and comfortable. Our two guides, Adrian and Lolly, were supposed to be "naturalists". Although they were very proud of their country and had great enthusiasm for their jobs, they both had very little command of the English language. They tended to just repeat phrases over and over again and if asked a specific question would just repeat the phrases again. It was unclear as to how much knowledge they actually had on the geological formations and all of the wildlife. I found that I got more clear information by reading my own guide books. They were very personable and somewhat friendly, but I realized at the end of the trip - they had no idea who any of us were. There was no attempt made at learning our names or anything about us. Lolly, in particular, would say, "Ok, lady..." We had a wonderful trip and enjoyed all the people on board, but after paying what we did for the trip, I expected way more from the naturalists/guides. That is why we went with Ecoventura - They were recommended to us by acquaintances that had travelled with them and said that the guides were top notch. They were also highly recommended in the guide books. And this was not our experience. So, it is difficult ot say that we would recommend Ecoventura to friends who are planning to travel to The Gallapagos.
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Response from Ecoventura to Detour about this trip:
This is not something we normally hear. Our yachts are unique because we have two guides instead of just one. It is difficult to always have two guides at similar levels on all three yachts. Ideally, we would have two experienced guides. However, these days there is a shortage of high-level guides in Galapagos. It is a constant struggle to maintain high level guides.
Unfortunately, on this particular week on the Eric, we had two less experienced guides on board which was a mistake. Operations was trying to prevent the situation of having two different level guides! I have brought this to the attention of our Operations Manager so that it does not happen again. Dolores Galarza (Lolita) is going to Guayaquil in a few weeks to take intensive English courses.
Thank you for your feedback. It only enables us to continue to improve.
- cabin accommodations
- all meals and snacks and
- non-acoholic beverages, mineral water, Captains welcome and fairwell cocktail
- guide services
- shore excursions
- use of wet suits, snorkeling equipment and sea kayaks
- transfers in the islands between the airport and the dock.
Not Included
Not Included
- Flights and travel tax to and from Galapagos
- Galapagos entrance fee ($100 US adult, $50 US children)
- alcoholic beverages
- gratuities to guides and crew
Transportation to Trip Departure Point
Arriving to trip starting point
Transportation is not included but must be purchased from provider
Type of transportation available to trip starting point
Commercial flight
Arriving to trip starting point description:
Flights to Galapagos for Ecoventura’s passengers are serviced by AEROGAL Airlines from Quito and Guayaquil to Galapagos (San Cristobal). Seat reservations are automatically confirmed when you book your cruise. Tickets are not included in the cruise rate but may be purchased through Ecoventura or their affiliates. Arrival and departure airports are subject to change according to our itineraries.
The current flight schedule is as follows:
Quito to Guayaquil
AEROGAL Flight 2K36 ETD 9:09AM ETA 9:54AM
Guayaquil to San Cristobal
AEROGAL Flight 2K36 ETD 10:30AM ETA 11:15AM
San Cristobal to Guayaquil:
AEROGAL Flight 2K37 ETD 12:15PM ETA 3:00PM
Guayaquil to Quito:
AEROGAL Flight 2K37 ETD 3:45PM ETA 4:30PM
On the day of departure, please be at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil one and a half hours prior to departure for check-in. Please meet our representative from Ecoventura next to the AEROGAL Airline ticket counter. Flight ticket coupons are provi¬ded at the counter upon check-in by an Ecoventura representative.
Luggage restrictions: one checked suitcase (maximum 44 lbs.) and one carry-on per passenger.
Because flight schedules and arrival departure port are always subject to change, please inform your clients to check with our office in Ecuador upon arrival to verify the correct flight times and to reconfirm their flight. If they arrive late at night, they should check at the hotel for a message from Ecoventura regar¬ding any possible change to the schedule shown here. We sug¬gest you avoid making international connections the same day as the flight may be delayed or changed to an alternate flight.
HIGH SEASON: Jan 1-30 April, June 15-14 Sep, Nov 1-31 Dec
Routing Adult fare Child fare
QUITO/GALAPAGOS/QUITO $ 407.00 $ 209.00
QUITO/GALAPAGOS/GUAYAQUIL $ 384.00 $ 198.00
GUAYAQUIL/GALAPAGOS/QUITO $ 382.00 $ 195.00
GUAYAQUIL/GALAPAGOS/GUAYAQUIL $ 359.00 $ 184.00
Each yacht features ten double outside facing cabins located on three decks with polished teak wood interiors, window view or portholes, fully air conditioned throughout, private bath facilities with fresh, hot-and-cold-water shower, hair dryer, toiletries, roomy closet and drawers, overhead storage, separate climate controls, ionizer (iguana and booby deck only), intercom system, life vests, bottled water and fresh towels.
DOLPHIN DECK
Cabins #1,3 & 4 have two twin lower beds and picture windows.
Cabin # 2 has one double bed and picture window.
(cabins average 95 square feet)
BOOBY DECK
Cabins # 5 & 6 cabins have one double bed and picture windows.
(cabins average 90 square feet)
IGUANA DECK
Cabins #7 & 8 have two twin lower beds and port lights.
Cabins # 9 & 10 have two twin lower beds and one upper berth with port lights. These two cabins can be sold as triples.
(cabins average 110 square feet)
SINGLE cabins are assigned by Ecoventura to the best cabin available at the time of sailing.
WILLING TO SHARE FEMALE (WSF) OR WILLING TO SHARE MALE (WSM)
Same share gender requests are available on the Iguana deck only. Shares that remain unmatched 30 days prior to departure are subject to a 15% supplement.
There is a maximum of one share confirmed per sailing.
TRIPLE cabins are available on the Iguana deck only in cabins I9 and I1
Lodging Types
7 Nights Yacht
Average number of rooms in boat/lodge/hotel average
6-10
Lodging capacity (Average)
20
Details
Social and Environmental Responsibility
New Deals for Sustainable Tourism
The Rainforest Alliance is pleased to announce important steps forward in our efforts to strengthen sustainable tourism in Latin America. Several tour companies in Belize, Guatemala, Costa Rica and Ecuador have signed agreements that spell out commitments which will allow us to advance The Project for the Implementation of Best Management Practices and Certification Support for Small and Medium Tourism Enterprises. As part of the agreement, the Rainforest Alliance will train and offer technical assistance to tour operators in best management practices and sustainable tourism certification; work that we carry out with strong support from Alianza Verde in Guatemala, Programme for Belize in Belize, and the Asociación Ecuatoriana de Ecoturismo in Ecuador.
Building Alliances for a Better Future
True to the second word in our name, the Rainforest Alliance firmly believes that networks and allian es can achieve better results with longer lasting impact by taking advantage of shared resources and acquired experiences. Our most recent alliance is an agreement with Eductrade, a Spanish group that specializes in education, health and social development and is working to help improve quality of life in Ecuador. This investment in the future should pay off by creating a cadre of trained entrepreneurs who understand the importance of conserving Ecuador’s natural and cultural resources. We hope the agreement with Eductrade will eventually cross borders and the materials will be used in other countries in the Americas.
This year at the Rainforest Alliance Gala, Santiago Dunn, President of Ecoventura, was presented with its prestigious Individual Sustainable Standard-Setter for making a significant contribution to environmental conservation and sustainability. The evening celebrated the biodiversity and sustainable livelihoods at the Rainforest Alliance Fifteenth Annual Gala on Wednesday, May 11, 2005 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.
This unique evening recognized the accomplishments of leaders in the fields of sustainable agriculture, forestry and tourism while bringing together environmentalists, progressive companies, celebrities and leaders in the business and diplomatic communities. Santiago was awarded for his involvement as a pioneer in the first voluntary environmental certification programs in Galapagos known as SmartVoyager. In 2000, Ecoventura was one of the first companies to receive the green seal of approval that was developed by the Rainforest Alliance together with Corporacion y Desarollo from Ecuador. Tourism traffic in the Galapagos has grown from 46,000 in 1994 to over 100,000 in 2004. More traffic usually means more pollution and erosion, more illegal fishing and the introduction of alien species. But SmartVoyager-certified boats like those of Ecoventura demonstrate how to vastly reduce environmental impact while contributing to sustainable economic development of tourist destinations.
The boats use only TBT- and lead-free paints and biodegradable soaps, recycle and treat their wastes, run on fuel-efficient engines, employ refueling safeguards, and manage supplies to guard against alien species. The crewmembers are provided with advanced training, better living quarters and healthcare. Ecoventura is a leader in a growing movement to make ecotourism accountable to strict standards and inspection regimes. As Ecoventura and the Galapagos Network play our small roles in the world's largest industry-tourism-we strive to minimize the effects of travel on the places we visit.
To that end, the SmartVoyager certification program initiated by Rainforest Alliance and its Ecuadorian Partner, Conservacion y Desarrollo assures our clients that we actively support low-impact travel and conservation. From the onset, we have taken measures to provide tourists with the finest personal services while simultaneously protecting the environment. Now, for the first time, a "green seal of approval" acknowledges our efforts and underscores their importance. The SmartVoyager seal sends a message to our clients, our peers, and our staff, that we uphold the highest environmental standards in the Galapagos Archipelago.
What is the food like on this trip?
Sample Menu:
SUNDAY (UPON ARRIVAL)
Lunch Buffet Menu 1:00pm
Mixed greens with selection of sliced vegetables and salad dressings
Garden Pasta in a Marinara sauce and garlic bread
Display of fresh local fruit
Dinner Menu Served at 8:00pm
French Onion Soup
Chicken glazed in a Peach sauce
Filet of fish poached in a white sauce
Steamed potatoes and brocoli with almonds
Strawberries with cream
Coffee, Tea, Herbal Teas
Note: a snack is serverd at 5pm
MONDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30AM
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Assortment of breads (French baguette, croissont, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
French Toast and cheese omelets
Coffee, Tea, Milk, herbal teas.
Lunch Buffet Menu 12:30pm
Crab Bisque
Mixed greens with sliced vegetables and selection of salad dressings
Mixed Chinese Chop Suey
Grilled fish with butter and sesame seed sauce, French Fries
Fruit cocktail and orange cake
Dinner Menu served at 7:30pm
St. German’s cream soup
Jumbo prawns in a Curry sauce
Roasted Turkey Breast
Potato rissotto and green beans with bacon
Vanilla ice cream with blackberry or chocolate sauce
Coffee, Tea, Herbal Teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
TUESDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, whole wheat, toast, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Scrambled eggs, American ham and bacon and corn tortilla
Coffee, Tea, Milk, herbal teas
Lunch Buffet Menu 12:30pm
Minnestrone
Mixed greens with selection of sliced vegetables and salad dressings
Filet of fish in a almond butter sauce
Mini-steak in a Red wine sauce
Ravioli in tomato sauce with steamed vegetables
Strawberries and cream cheese
Fresh fruit
Dinner Menu served at 7:30pm
Vichy’s cream soup
Grilled pork chops with Passion fruit sauce
Baked chicken in mushroom sauce
Potato croquets and spinich soufflé
Caramel custard with Coconut
Coffee, Tea, Herbal teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
WEDNESDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Fried eggs, Veal sausages and American ham
Coffee, Tea, Milk, Hot Chocolate
Lunch Buffet Menu 12:30pm
Special Ecuadorian menú from the coast
Shrimp Ceviche
Salad with avocado, hard boiled eggs, lettuce and cucumber
Seco de Pollo (a delicious chicken stew)
Fritada criolla con mote pillo (roasted pork with local corn)
Llapingachos (fried potatoes with creole and peanut sauce)
Yellow rice, patacones y maduros (green and yellow plantains)
Rice pudding
Dinner Menu served at 7:30pm
Creme of culiflower soup
Fricassee of fish and Seafood Pasta
Baked Zucchini with mushrooms, Potatoes with azafran butter
Dulce de tres leches – Three milk dessert
Coffee, Tea, Herbal teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
THURSDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Scrambled eggs with tomatoes, bell pepper and onion
American Ham, Mortadella, Plantain tortillas
Coffee, Tea, Milk, Hot Chocolate
Lunch Buffet Menu 12:30pm
Mexican Party
Mexican style “sopa marinero”
Slided tomato, lettuce and cucumber, onions and cheese
Ground beef tacos with soft tortillas and Mexican rice
Chicken enchiladas, pico de gallo with jalapenos, refried beans
Assorted cheese and fruits, carrot cake
Dinner Menu 7:30pm
Caesar salad with croutons
Grilled filet of fish in garlic mustard sauce
Chicken bar-be-que
Potatoes with cheese sauce and vegetables
Lemon Pie
Coffee, Tea, Herbal teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
FRIDAY
Breakfast buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, Oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Poached eggs with hollandaise sauce, fried bacon, humitas
Coffee, Tea, Milk, Hot Chocolate
Lunch Buffet Menu 12:30pm
Ecuadorian style lunch from the Highlands
Locro de Papas (Ecuadorian potato soup)
Mised green salad with avocado, tomato, beets, hard boiled eggs, lettuce and cucumbers
Encocado de Pescado- Coconut fish fingers
Breaded chicken cutlet with mashed potatoes
Rice with nuts and fried green plantains
Chocolate cake and fresh fruit
Dinner Menu 7:30pm
Cream of Hearts of Palm soup with parmesan
Filet Mignon cooked to order
Seafood Fettuccini and garlic bread
Dutchess potatoes with sauteed vegetables
Strawberry Bavaroise
Coffee, Tea, Herbal teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
SATURDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, toast, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereals: Musli, Oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Pancakes with maple syrup, Ham, Mortadella
Egg tortillas with fine herbs
Coffee, Tea, Milk, Hot Chocolate
Lunch Buffet 12:30pm
Cream of Tomato soup with croutons
Mixed greens with selection of sliced vegetables and salad dressings
Filet of fish in a white wine sauce
Chicken with roasted walnuts sauteed in olive oil
Eggplant with vegetables brunoise
Chocolate mouse
Fresh fruit
Dinner Menu 7:30pm
Asparagus au Gratin
Savory Turkey rolls with spinich in a light cream sauce
Jumbo Ecuadorian Shrimp fra diablo
Turkish rice with vegetables
Orange Tort with caramel sauce
Coffee, Tea, Herbal teas
Note: snacks are served at 11am and 5pm
SUNDAY
Breakfast Buffet Menu 7:30am
Fresh tropical fruit juices
Selection of fresh fruit, cheese and ham
Selection of bread (French baguette, toast, whole wheat, butter, jams)
Cereal bar: Musli, oatmeal, yogurt, granola, cornflakes
Scrambled eggs and corn tortillas
Coffee, Tea, Milk, Hot Chocolate
What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.
Navigational Equipment: Highly sophisticated navigational and mechanical equipment meet the highest safety standards found in Galapagos including: 24 mile Furuno radar, Furuno Satellite Navigator, Electric compass, magnetic compass, clock, barometer
Communication Equipment: VHFand HF-SSB radios.
Safety Equipment: All equipment meets SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and ISM standards including VIKING 25-person inflatable capsule lifeboat, 40 life vests with whistles and fluorescent markers, 10 circular buoys, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, Automatic radio buoy via satellite EPIRB (emergency position indicator radio beacon).
Tell me about the guides on this trip
All crewmembers are experienced and trained by ISM and in the regulations that local, Navy and National Park authorities require.
Our Captains
Victor Mayorga
Master Level Captain on the M/Y FLAMINGO
Captain Mayorga has years of experience sailing high tonnage ships. He is charismatic and popular with both passengers (young and older) and crew. He enjoys sharing his knowledge of the sea with passengers. Victor is athletic and enjoys going for a run while in port or taking the kayaks for a spin.
Peter Vallejo
2nd Officer in the Ecuadorian Navy on the M/Y ERIC
Captain Vallejo enjoys inviting passengers to his table for dinner and telling stories of the high seas while in the Navy. He lives in the Galapagos with his family including three small children. His joy of being a father shows, especially on our family departures, with the dedication and attention given to the children on board.
Wilson Taipe
Master Level Captain on the M/Y LETTY and SKY DANCER
Captain Taipe has many years of experience sailing in the Galapagos archipelago. He is highly skilled especially in marine mechanics. He knows all the secrets in the Islands so if you are curious just ask him!
Gerardo Duran
Master Level Captain on the SKY DANCER
Captain Duran began working as a Captain in Galapagos in 1992. He enjoys swimming in the ocean and also scuba diving. He knows the Sky Dancer inside and out since he worked at the shipyard and oversaw the construction of this yacht in 2001. Gerardo lives in Guayaquil with his family including two teenagers.
Pablo Jaramillo
Master Level Captain on the ERIC and FLAMINGO
Captain Jaramillo has experience with high tonnage vessels and is one of the highest qualified officers from the Ecuadorian Navy. He speaks Portuguese, Italian and Russian as well as English and Spanish. Pablo lives in San Cristobal with his family where he owns a farm.
Marcelo Cevallos
Master Level Captain on the M/Y LETTY
Captain Cevallos has sailed the seven seas and has visited many different countries. He has experience with high tonnage vessels but decided to reside in Galapagos where he could share his experiences with passengers. Marcelo is an excellent host and good company to have on board.
Our Naturalist Guides
Orlando Romero
Level: Naturalist 3 Year licensed to guide: 1988
Orlando worked with the Galapagos National Park Service (PNG) for ten years during which time he completed 13 one-month courses on interpretation of park programs among others. He has been a senior guide with Ecoventura since 1995 and often guides our affinity groups. Orlando received his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and studied Agronomy at the Universidad Tehnica Yachala.
His favorite Galapagos topics of conversation include: Geology and reptiles, National park programs, human history, Ecuador ecology and climate. When Orlando is not guiding, he enjoys watching his favorite teams play futbol (soccer)
Magdalena “Malena” Cruz
Level: Naturalist 2 Year licensed to guide: 1994
Magdalena studied Tourism Professional Guide at the Universidad Internacional del Ecuador and also took courses on Interpretation Techniques in the PNG.
Her favorite Galapagos topics of conversation include: sea currents, geology and the marine reserve. When Malena is not guiding, she manages her family’s hotel on the Island of San Cristobal. She also enjoys reading, music and fishing.
Karina Lopez
Level: Naturalist 2 Year licensed to guide: 1997
Karina studied Tourism National Guide at the Universidad de Babahoyo and earned a Bachelor degree in Tourism and Hotel Professional.
Karina is a divemaster and also took courses in Service quality and Social ettiquite.
She enjoys diving, snorkeling kayaking and swimming.
She and her brother Ivan often guide together on our family departures.
Harry Jimenez
Level: Naturalist 1 Year licensed to guide: 1996
Harry studied Business Administration specializing in tourism and English in Ecuador.
Harry was born in the Galapagos Islands and has been working with Ecoventura since 1998. Harry has completed several dive courses including open water, advanced, rescue and technical divemaster. His preferred topics of conversation include: arrival and establishment of species, marine currents, creation of the islands and plate tectonics. When Harry is not guiding, he enjoys scuba diving and driving his speed boats that operate as day trips from San Cristobal Island where he lives.
Jose Luis “Pepe” Castillo
Level: Naturalist 1 Year licensed to guide: 1997
Pepe completed his courses with the PNH including interpretation Techniques and Footpath Analysis of PNG. He was born in Loja, Ecuador and grew up in San Cristobal Island where he fell in love with nature and decided to protect this unique place becoming a Naturalist Guide. At the age of 18, Pepe studied at the University of Guayaquil and got his degree in Hotel management. He took some English courses at the SECAP institute to learn English but he mainly studied by his own. Pepe is studying computer science and Italian language now. In 1995 He became a member of FEDEGAL which is a foundation that helps with the conservation of Galapagos Islands. Pepe used to work as a free lancer for many different ships and he became part of our team in 2002. Pepe is a very popular guide and likes to tell passengers stories about the enchanted Galapagos Islands. Preferred topics for discussion include: geology (islands, volcanoes and rocks), astronomy and giant tortoises. When he is not guiding, he enjoys chess, playing the guitar and swimming with sharks.
Daniel Moreano
Level: Naturalist Level 1 Year licensed to guide: 2005
Daniel studied Urban Architecture at the University in Guayaquil. He took courses in Social Label and protocol Seminar giving by the Tourism Minister. He and his sister Karina often guide together on our family departures.
Daniel with Ivan, Karina and Pepe
Ivan Lopez
Level: Naturalist 1 Year licensed to guide: 2005
Ivan studied Environmental Management and Tourism at the University of Babahoyo and also took a Seminar of Photography techniques. He enjoys swimming, diving, snorkeling and kayaking. Ivan is an accomplished diver with certification as an SSI Scuba Instructor and Master Scuba Trainer and also emergency first Responder Instructor. She and his sister Karina often guide together on our family departures.
Tell me about the safety precautions and plans for this trip.
The four vessels bring our total carrying capacity to 76 berths with unmatched comfort and safety.
Maximum Guide/Client Ratio
1 to 10
Minimum Age
5
Maximum Age
None
Weather
Located on the equator, the Galapagos Islands have a surprisingly cool, sub-tropic climate. The larger islands with volcanic peaks have a variety of climatic zones. The coastal areas are arid and covered with plants adapted to desert conditions. The highland areas receive moisture almost all year round, which support lush vegetation. Temperatures are determined almost entirely by ocean currents, which are influenced by the trade winds.
There are two seasons, both of which have some precipitation. The Galapagos get an average of 10 in of rain per year, so it is never considered "rainy". During the months of Dec - May, the cooling currents subside, temperatures rise and the climate is warm and sunny with occasional showers. In June temperatures begin to cool with moderate breezes, which continue through Nov. This period is often referred to as the "garua" season, which means mist in Spanish.
Most all of the seabirds and reptiles nest year round. You can see courtship, mating, chicks hatching and rearing at any time of the year.
Max/Min Air Temperature:
Jan - 84/70
Feb - 86/74
Mar - 88/74
Apr - 86/72
May - 82/72
Jun - 78/68
Jul - 76/66
Aug - 74/64
Sep - 76/62
Oct - 77/64
Nov - 78/66
Dec - 80/68
Yachts - Ships - Live Aboard Boats
Boat Length
83 ft
Travel Provider
Provider Name
Ecoventura
Why should I choose this provider?
At Ecoventura, we underscore the enchantment of the Galapagos Islands with our dedication to details that make your journey comfortable, fun and truly rewarding. Small guide-to-passenger ratio (one expert guide for every 10 passengers) ensure intimate visits on shore.
Ecoventura's participation in the Smart Voyager environmental certification program ensures that our vessels, passengers, and crew members commit to preserve the Galapagos National Park and to respect the fragile ecosystem that, worldwide, is recognized as a "living laboratory of evolution."
Our guides emphasize outdoor activities including: nature walks, snorkeling, kayaking and special interests: such as photography, birdwatching, scuba diving and marine biology.
Onboard, comfort is a key feature. All cabins are outside-facing with window or portholes, air-conditioning and private bath, hair dryers and beach towels. Departures are all inclusive. There is no extra charge for beverages (mineral water, soda or juice).
Ecoventura is the only company in Galapagos that provides snorkeling equipment (masks, fins and snorkels), custom wet suits (in various sizes for men, women and children) and clear-bottom sea kayaks (two doubles per yacht) at no additional cost.
Provider FAQ's
Are itineraries subject to change?
Yes, itineraries are subject to change at any time for any reason and without prior notice. Last minute changes to the itinerary can occur at any time including, but not limited to, changes in National Park rules or the discretion of the captain of the vessel or company for any reason including mechanical failure. Ecoventura will not be held responsible for any refund whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.
Who will meet me at the airport in Galapagos?
Upon arrive at Puerto Baquerizo Moreano airport, San Cristobal, passengers are met by our guides wearing Ecoventura polo shirts and transferred by bus to the yachts anchored in the bay. Once on board, you will receive an orientation and safety drill.
What daily activities can I expect?
The day begins with an early breakfast followed by the first shore excursion. We return for lunch followed by a siesta while the vessel navigates to the next island. Mid-afternoon, we disembark for the second excursion and return before sunset. Before dinner, there is a briefing on the next day’s shore excursions. In the evenings, we motor to the next island arriving early in the morning for a new adventure.
When are meals served?
Meals are informal and there is just one seating area for all passengers. Although meal times can vary slightly, the typical schedule is breakfast at 7:30am, buffet lunch at 12:30pm, and dinner served at 7:30pm. The menu is international with touches of Ecuadorian specialties. Snacks are served after morning and afternoon shore excursions.
Are there naturalist guides on board?
Passengers must be accompanied at all times by our naturalist guides who have been trained by the Darwin Station and licensed by the National Park. They know each visitor site intimately and share their knowledge on nature walks during the day and in briefings in the evening. There are two guides on board (1 for every 10 passengers)
What is your passenger profile?
Our passengers tend to be well educated, well traveled and from a variety of age groups and nationalities, although most are from English speaking countries. They have a keen interest in learning about nature and ecology and are concerned about environmental issues.
How do we get from the boat to the shore?
The vessels anchor offshore at two visitor sites per day. Passengers are ferried to the landing point in small zodiac-style tenders (locally called “pangas”). The landings are either wet (where one must step into water anywhere from your ankles to your knees and wade to shore) or dry (where one steps from the panga directly to the volcanic rock). Your guide and panga driver will assist you with a steady hand.
What happens during the shore excursions?
On the islands, one must follow marked trails set by the National Park walking at a leisurely pace. The guides will interpret and explain the unusual sights you see. You’ll spend 3-4 hours at each site allowing plenty of time to explore and photograph the abundant wildlife. There are opportunities to swim or snorkel almost every day during the week and sometimes twice a day. Kayaks can be used only at designated sites approved by the National Park.
Are there regulations we must obey?
During the orientation, your guide will go over the Galapagos National Park rules which request, among others, that you do not disturb or remove anything (not even a rock or shell), do not touch or feed the animals, do not leave any liter and to stay on the marked trails. Show a conservationist attitude! Leave only footprints and take home on photographs.
How strenuous are the walks?
Passengers able to walk a few hours a day unassisted will be able to fully enjoy the Galapagos. Some of the excursions require more physical activity than others involving short steep climbs or long walks in hot weather. However, most excursions require moderate activity and the walks are at a leisurely pace giving time for the guides to describe what you are seeing. Entering and exiting the pangas require that you need to be reasonably fit, sure footed and in good health. If you are concerned about your ability to do any particular day hike, please consult with the naturalist or Captain beforehand.
What if I have a physical disability?
Please see your doctor for a check-up before traveling to Ecuador. Any medical condition or physical disability that may require special attention or treatment must be advised to Ecoventura at the time of booking.
Trip FAQ's
Trip FAQ's
Are itineraries subject to change?
Yes, itineraries are subject to change at any time for any reason and without prior notice. Last minute changes to the itinerary can occur at any time including, but not limited to, changes in National Park rules or the discretion of the Captain of the vessel or company for any reason including mechanical failure. Ecoventura will not be held responsible for any refund whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.
Who will meet me at the airport in Galapagos?
Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno airport, San Cristobal, passengers are met by our guides wearing Ecoventura polo shirts and transferred by bus to the yachts anchored in the bay. Once on board, you will receive an orientation and safety drill.
What daily activities can I expect?
The day begins with an early breakfast followed by the first shore excursion. We return for lunch followed by a siesta while the vessel navigates to the next Island. Mid-afternoon, we disembark for the second excursion and return before sunset. Before dinner, there is a briefing on the next day’s shore excursions. In the evenings, we motor to the next Island arriving early in the morning for a new adventure.
When are meals served?
Meals are informal and there is just one seating for all passengers. Although meal times can vary slightly, the typical schedule is:
Breakfast at 7:30am
Buffet lunch at 12:30pm
Dnner served at 7:30pm.
The menu is international with touches of Ecuadorian specialties. Snacks are served after morning and afternoon shore excursions.
Are there naturalist guides on board?
Passengers must be accompanied at all times by our naturalist guides who have been trained by the Darwin Station and licensed by the National Park. They know each visitor site intimately and share their knowledge on nature walks during the day and in briefings in the evening. There are two guides on board (one for every ten passengers).
What is your passenger profile?
Our passengers tend to be well educated, well traveled and from a variety of age groups and nationalities, although most are from English speaking counties. They have a keen interest in learning about nature and ecology and are concerned about environmental issues.
How do we get from the boat to the shore?
The vessels anchor offshore at two visitor sites per day. Passengers are ferried to the landing point in small zodiac-style tenders (locally called “pangas”). The landings are either wet (where one must step into water anywhere from your ankles to your knees and wade to shore) or dry (where one steps from the panga directly to the volcanic rock). Your guide and panga driver will assist you with a steady hand.
What happens during the shore excursions?
On the Islands, one must follow marked trails set by the National Park walking at a leisurely pace. The guides will interpret and explain the unusual sights you see. You’ll spend 3-4 hours at each site allowing plenty of time to explore and photograph the abundant wildlife. There are opportunities to swim or snorkel almost every day during the week and sometimes twice a day. Kayaks can be used only at designated sites approved by the National Park.
Are there regulations we must obey?
During the orientation, your guide will go over the Galapagos National Park rules which request, among others, that you do not disturb or remove anything (not even a rock or shell), do not touch or feed the animals, do not leave any liter and to stay on the marked trails. Show a conservationist attitude! Leave only footprints and take home only photographs.
How strenuous are the walks?
Passengers able to walk a few hours a day unassisted will be able to fully enjoy Galapagos. Some of the excursions require more physical activity than others involving short steep climbs or long walks in hot weather. However, most excursions require moderate activity and the walks are at a leisurely pace giving time for the guides to describe what you are seeing. Entering and exiting the pangas require that you need to be reasonably fit, sure footed and in good health. If you are concerned about your ability to do any particular day hike, please consult with the naturalist or Captain beforehand.
What if I have a physical disability?
Please see your doctor for a check-up before traveling to Ecuador. Any medical condition or physical disability that may require special attention or treatment must be advised to Ecoventura at the time of booking.
Will I encounter rough seas or bad weather?
Due to strong currents, there will be moderate movement of the vessel while under way. Most passengers are not affected. However, if you are prone to seasickness, we strongly urge you bring some type of medication to prevent motion sickness.
Provider Policies
Trip Specific Policies
Ecoventura reserves the right at its sole option and discretion and that of the Captain of the vessel without liability for damages or refund of any kind to deviate from the vessel’s advertised or ordinary itinerary providing substitutions. Ecoventura will not be held responsible for any refunds whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.
On a 7 night / 8 day itinerary, passengers are scheduled to visit twelve visitor sites. The first and last day of the cruise are transportation days and there is no guarantee of a land visit or shore excursion. Visits scheduled for the first and last day may often change due to airline schedule changes or delays.
Terms and Conditions
ECOVENTURA TERMS, CONDITIONS, AND POLICIES
Eric, Letty, and Flamingo Yachts
SEASONAL WEEKS: Jan 10-17, Jan 17-24, Jan 24-31, Jan31- 07 Feb, Feb 07-14, Feb 21-28, Feb 28-07 Mar, Mar 07-14, Apr 25-02May, May 02-09, May 09-16, May 16-23, May 23-30, May 30-06 Jun, Jun 06-13, Aug 29-05 Sep, Sep 5-12, Sep 12-19, Sep 19-26, Sep 26-03 Oct, Oct 03-10, Oct 10-17, Oct 17-24, Oct 24-31, Oct 31-07 Nov, Nov 07-14, Nov 14-21, Nov 28-05 Dec, Dec 05-12, Dec 12-19
PEAK WEEKS: Jan 03-10, Feb 14-21, Mar 14-21, Mar 21-28, Mar 28-04 Apr, Apr11-18, Apr 18-25, Jun 13-20, Jun 20-27, Jun 27-04 Jul, Jul 04-11, Jul 11-18, Jul 18-25, Jul 25-01 Aug, Aug 01-08, Aug 08-15, Aug 15-22, Aug 22-29, Nov 21-28
HOLIDAY WEEKS: Apr 01-11, Dec 19-26, Dec 26- 02 Jan
* NOTE: please see terms applicable to these weeks
Airfares and all taxes are subject to change until the day of departure.
Reservations will not be considered firm until a deposit has cleared our account.
All reservations are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the due date. Ther is a service charge of $50/person for airline tickets to Galapagos canceled 29 days or less prior to departure.
In case of a fuel price increase, rates are subject to a fuel surcharge.
SINGLE cabins are limited and assigned by Ecoventura to the best cabin available at the time of sailing.
Females willing to share (WSF) or Males Willing to share (WSM):_Same share gender requests are available on the Iguana deck only. Shares that remain unmatched 30 days prior to departure are subject to pay the difference for a single rate.
TRIPLE cabins when available are on the Iguana deck only in cabins I9 and I10.
CRUISE RATES INCLUDE - Cabin accommodation, all meals and snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, purified water, Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, guide services, shore excursions, use of wet suits, snorkeling equipment and sea kayaks, transfers in the Islands between the airport and dock.
RATES DO NOT INCLUDE
International Airfare, Airfare to Galapagos, Galapagos entrance fee (park tax), alcoholic beverages, gratuities to guides and crew, purchases on board, travel insurance, Ecuador departure tax.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Airfares and all taxes are subject to change up until the day of departure.
Reservations will not be considered firm until a deposit has cleared our account.
All reservations are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the due date. There is a service charge of $50.00 per person for airline tickets to Galapagos cancelled 29 days or less prior to departure.
FOR FIT OR INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS (1-5 passengers)
Deposits - A deposit of $600.00 per person and $1000.00 for singles ($1,000 per person and $2,000 for singles on Holiday weeks) is required within 5 days of written confirmation to guarantee any reservation. Reservations will not be considered firm until a deposit has cleared our account.
Final payment - Full payment is due 60 days prior (90 days prior for holiday weeks) to the sailing date and must be accompanied with a passenger information form. All reservations are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the due date.
Cancellation policy - Cancellations received up to 90 days prior to departure will be refunded in full except for a $250.00 per person service charge; 89-60 days prior to departure, the full deposit will be forfeited, 59-30 days prior to departure, 50% of the total cruise rate will be forfeited; 29 days to the day of departure, the entire cruise rate is forfeited.
Once the tour has started, there will be no refund for unused services. In addition, there is a service charge of $50.00 per person for airline tickets to Galapagos cancelled 29 days or less prior to departure.
Cancellation policy for Holiday weeds (April 4-11, Dec 19-26, Dec 26-Jan 02) -
Cancellations received up to 180 days prior to departure will be refunded in full except for a $500.00 per person service charge; 179-90 days prior to departure, the full deposit will be forfeited, 89-0 days prior to departure, the entire cruise rate is forfeited.
FOR: SMALL GROUP BOOKINGS (3 or more cabins excluding charters)
Deposits & Final Payment: same as above. In addition, a second deposit of 20% of the total cruise rate is due 180 days prior to departure.
Cancellation policy (small group bookings):
• 179 to 150 days prior to departure: can cancel 2 cabins without penalties, additional cabins released are subject to penalty charge of $250 per person.
• 149-120 days prior to departure: can cancel 2 cabins with a penalty of $250, additional cabins released are subject to a penalty charge of $500 per person.
• 119-90 days prior to departure: can cancel 2 cabins with a penalty of $500 per person, additional cabins released are subject to a penalty of $1,000 per person.
• 89-60 days prior to departure: any cabin released is subject to full forfeiture of all deposits paid.
• 59-0 days prior to departure: full penalty for any cancellation.
Holiday Cancellation Policy (for 6 or more passengers excluding exclusive charters)
• 179-120 days prior to departure: same as above
• 119-90 days prior to departure: can cancel 2 cabins with a penalty of $1000 per person, additional cabins released are subject to penalty charge of $2,000 per person.
• 89-00 days prior to departure: full penalty for any cancellation.
FOR: FULL EXCLUSIVE CHARTER FOR SEASONAL, PEAK AND HOLIDAY WEEKS.
Deposits - A deposit of 10% for seasonal and 20% for peak and holiday weeks are due to guarantee the charter. A second deposit of 20% is due 180 days prior to departure to guarantee all cabins. Final payment is due in full at 60 days prior to departure together with passenger information forms and cabin assignment. All reservations are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the due date. Reservations will not be considered firm until a deposit has cleared our account.
Cancellation policy - Cancellations received in writing up until 180 days prior to departure will be refunded in full except for a $1,500.00 service charge.
• 179-150 days prior to departure, cancellation incurs penalty of 100% first deposit,
• 149-120 days prior to departure, cancellation incurs penalty of 100% first deposit 119-90 days prior to departure, cancellation incurs penalty of 100% of the first deposit and 50% of the second deposit.
• 119-60 days prior to departure, cancellation incurs penalty of 100% of the first and second deposits.
• 59- day of departure cancellation incurs full penalty. Payment is due in full at 60 days at which time a cancellation would incur full penalties. There is a service charge of $50 per person for airline tickets to Galapagos cancelled 29-7 days prior to departure. From 7 days to the day of departure, there is no refund for the airfare, park tax or transit card.
Reduction of cabins on charters: The number of cabins blocked for a particular charter can be reduced. However, cabins must be released according to our time schedule in order to avoid penalties; they are outlined as follows:
* 179-150 days prior to departure - Can release 3 cabins on Eric, Flamingo, Letty without penalties, additional cabins released are subject to penalty charge of $150 per person.
* 149-120 days prior to departure - Can release 2 cabins on Eric, Flamingo, Letty without penalties, additional cabins released are subject to penalty charge of $250 per person.
* 119-90 days prior to departure - Can release 1 cabin on Eric, Flamingo, Letty without penalties, additional cabins released are subject to penalty charge of $500 per person.
* 89-00 days prior to departure – full penalty for any cancellation.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND SERVICES
Method of Payment:
We accept only agency check, wire transfer or personal check. Late bookings or late payments (25 days or less prior to departure) require payment by cashier’s check or wire transfer and may be subject to additional fees.
Documentation:
Documents include your boarding pass for the Galapagos cruise and vouchers for additional services (if applicable) including hotel, transfers and tours, Airline tickets for the flight to Galapagos will be provided in Ecuador. Documents are mailed upon receipt of final payment. Mailing instructions and cruise date must accompany your payment. Late final payment will delay your receipt of your documents. Any passenger requiring a name change or reissue of travel documents for any reason within 30 days of departure, a service charge of $50 will be applicable.
Passenger Information Form:
Galapagos Network requires all passenger details be sent 60 days prior to departure or with final payment. If all the information is not available at 60 days, we suggest you send complete information together at the same time no later than 30 days prior to departure.
Required Information Includes:
1. Full names of all passengers as they appear on the passport, passport number, expiration, nationality and date of birth.
2. Hotel contact in Ecuador prior to the cruise, name of ground operator in Ecuador providing any tours prior to the cruise or itinerary, international arrival and departure flight schedule to Ecuador.
3. Any special dietary requests, allergies or medical conditions need to be included. If you wish to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or reserve a wet suit, please let us know on this form.
Transportation Contract:
All passengers will be given a cruise ticket that contains the terms and conditions of our transportation agreement at the airport in Guayaquil or Quito. In order to review the terms before you leave home, a copy of the transportation agreement can be requested at any time from your travel agent or with Galapagos Network or you can download the form from our website.
Yacht & Itinerary Stipulations:
Passengers will be assigned by Ecoventura to any of the three identical sister yachts Eric, Letty or Flamingo at the company’s discretion. On a 7-night/8-day itinerary, passengers will visit twelve visitor sites. The first and last day of the cruise are considered transportation days and no island visits are guaranteed. Itineraries are subject to change at any time for any reason and without prior notice. Ecoventura reserves the right at its sole option and discretion and that of the Captain of the vessel without liability for damages or refund of any kind to deviate from the vessel’s advertised or scheduled itinerary for any reason including mechanical failure. Ecoventura will not be held responsible for any refund whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.
Prevention of Misconnecting Flights:
We recommend that all passengers traveling to Galapagos allow two nights in mainland Ecuador prior to their cruise to allow for potential flight delays and misconnection. This is particularly important for passengers traveling over holidays when flights tend to be overbooked and delayed caused by bad weather conditions. Passengers who miss their flight to Galapagos on Sunday will not be able to meet up with the yacht until Thursday based on the current itinerary and subject to change.
Travel Insurance:
We highly recommend passengers purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes trip cancelation and interruption, travel and baggage delay and loss, medical expense, emergency assistance and evacuation to protect you and your investment. For those passengers who choose not to purchase an insurance policy to protect them from potential losses to their travel investment, Ecoventura will not be responsible for any financial disappointment caused by reasons beyond our control and no refunds or partial refunds will be given for late cancellations or no shows due to any reason.
Holiday Weeks:
No discounts of any kind are available including child discounts. We cannot accept share requests on holiday weeks. The terms for deposits and cancellation during holiday weeks are different from the rest of the year.
Child Discounts:
Children age 11 years and younger at the time of sailing are entitled to a 25% discount off the cruise rate. Children 11 years and younger are entitled to 50% discount off the airfare and park tax with photocopy of the child’s passport showing date of birth. Children ages 12-17 years are entitled to a 15% discount off the cruise rate only. Children under 7 years of age are not accepted unless the parents or legal guardians sign a hold harmless release. Children age 11 and younger are only permitted only on designated family departures. Special family departures are designated during school breaks. Children under the age of 5 are only permitted on exclusive charter basis.
Restrictions on Child Discounts:
We allow only one child discount to be given per every adult fare paid with a limit of two per family. Ecoventura may limit the total number of child discounts permitted on any one departure. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult. Child discounts are applied to cabins on the iguana deck unless not otherwise available. When children are accommodated in a triple cabin, the discount is calculated from the double iguana deck rate. No child discounts are permitted on cruises that fall over the specified holiday weeks.
Dedicated Family Departures:
Our designated family departures are scheduled during school breaks in the U.S. and are geared towards families who prefer to travel with other families. These family departures feature age-appropriate activities (depending on the ages and number of children on board) from instruction in snorkeling and sea kayaking for teens to briefings geared toward the younger set and kid-friendly meals. Kids can visit the bridge and learn about astronomy, navigational charts and tie nautical knots with our Captain. Special parties include movies and popcorn, games with prizes, drawing contest, ice cream sundae social and King Neptune costume party and talent show.
Galapagos Park Tax:
The entrance fee to the National Park is $100 for adults and $50 for children 11 and younger. It is not included in the cruise rate, however, this charge will be added to your confirmation and prepaid by Ecoventura for your convenience.
Transit Control Card:
A TCT card or targeta de control de transito is required by INGALA for all visitors to Galapagos to control migration. The fee is $10 per person and can be prepaid to Ecoventura for those passengers who fly to Galapagos on Sundays only (the same day as departure).
Gratuities to Guides and Crew
Aboard our vessels, gratuities are not included. We prefer that our guests reward our crew based on their performance. Tipping is a personal matter and passengers are encouraged to tip an amount they find appropriate. For those passengers who inquire, we suggest they follow international guidelines of US $175 per person ($300 for passengers who occupy a single cabin). For charters, we suggest a gratuity of $3,500 regardless of the final number of passengers. Gratuities are divided among all eleven crewmembers including naturalist guides.
Wet Suits
3 mm full wet suits are available for passengers to use during the cruise at no additional charge on a first come first serve basis. Wet suits are nost popular between June and November when water temperatures are between 65-72 degrees. Passengers who would like to reserve a wet suit prior to the cruise may do so at a charge of $25 per wet suit. The fee will be charged to the account on board and paid at the end of the cruise. Reserved wet suits will be removed from the inventory in your closest approximate size and set aside for your exclusive use during the cruise. Size selection may vary by yacht:
Men’s: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Women’s US dress size: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16
Children: 10(S), 12(M), 14(L).
Snorkeling Equipment:
Masks, fins and snorkels in average sizes are available on board free of charge for use during the cruise. There is no guarantee there will be all equipment available in your size and passengers may prefer to bring their own equipment (especially mask and snorkel).
Clear Bottom Kayaks:
Two kayaks (per yacht) are available at designated sites during the cruise on a first come first serve basis at no extra charge. The clear bottom tandem model is half canoe and half sit-on-top kayak with a transparent hull.
Scuba Diving:
Ecoventura offers an opportunity for certified scuba divers to dive on Friday and Saturday during the cruise for an additional charge. Diving is offered every week with a minimum of 2 divers on Friday and 4 divers on Saturday. The maximum number of divers we accept is 8. If you are the only person in your travel party that would like to dive, please inquire as we may already have other guests signed up for diving. Each dive offers two immersions provided by a local dive shop and includes filled tanks, weight belt, weights, BCD, regulator, wet suit, boots and hood. Please inquire for full details and rates.
Communication:
Most telecommunication providers have signal in Galapagos and passengers can use their mobile/cellular phones that are activated for international calling on days when the yachts are in close range to port (Thursday to Sunday).
Laundry Service:
Laundry service is provided by a local company in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. On Friday morning, passengers can arrange to have dirty clothes sent to be laundered. The laundry will be delivered in the afternoon when passengers return from the visits. All charges must be paid directly to the company in cash (US dollars) at the current rate of $250 per pound.
Special Occasions:
You may order a bottle of Chilean wine ($25) or a cake ($15) to be served at dinner time. A fruit basket ($7) can be placed in your cabin. It is prohibited to bring flowers to the Galapagos. Please advise us at least 30 days prior to arrival or include details in your passenger information form.
Purchases on Board:
Every passenger has an open tab at the bar and boutique, which are paid the last day of the cruise. We accept cash (US Dollars), Travelers checks, Master Card, VISA, American Express and Diners.
International Airfare to Ecuador:
Flights to Ecuador are currently serviced by American Airlines (via Miami), Continental Airlines (Houston), DELTA (Atlanta), LAN Ecuador (Miami & JFK), LACSA (San Jose), COPA (Panama City), IBERIA (Madrid) and KLM (Amsterdam).
Departure Tax:
On International flights there is an airport departure tax of $27.75 from Guayaquil or $42.56 from Quito payable in US dollars.
Sky Dancer
TERMS & CONDITIONS FIT or individual passengers
Deposits - A deposit of $800.00 for 7 night trips per person is due within 10 days of booking and final payment is due 60 days prior to departure
Cancellations - Cancellations received 90 days or more prior to departure are subject to a service charge of $300.00 per person. Cancellations received 89-60 days prior to departure forfeit the entire deposit. Cancellations received 59 days prior to departure forfeit the entire cruise cost.
TERMS & CONDITIONS GROUPS of 8 or more or FULL CHARTER
Deposits - To secure a group or charter reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $4000.00 for 7 nights are required within ten days of the reservation date. Partial deposits are not acceptable. A charter is not confirmed until the deposit and properly executed Letter of Intent have been received. An interim payment of 25% of Total Charges, exclusive of deposit already paid is due 180 days prior to departure. If all the spaces have not been sold, the charterer may choose to return unsold spaces and incur an administrative fee of $100.00 per space for each space released. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure together with passenger names, passport numbers, flight arrival information, any special dietary requests, dive certification and requests for rental gear.
Cancellations - If the charterer does not want to be responsible for full payment of unsold spaces, written notification must be made more than 90 days prior to departure. An administrative fee on each unsold space of $300.00 per person will be charged. Cancellations received 60-90 days prior to departure receive no refund of deposits made. Cancellations received less than 60 days prior to departure receive no refund.
Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy that protects you and your investment before and during your trip. Most travel insurance includes trip cancellation and interruption, travel and baggage delay, baggage and travel document loss, medical expense, emergency assistance and evacuation. We also recommend diving accident insurance.
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TESTIMONIALS
I would recommend this trip to a friend in a second. The trip to the Galapagos was Outstanding. The Letty was wonderful; the naturalists were the greatest; the food was superb; the crew excellent; (I\'m running out of adjectives) I would recommend the whole thing and your agency also. You really provided excellent service and information. I felt I could email or call you with any questions and I knew you would answer quickly and I felt honestly. For just taking a chance finding you on the internet, I was very fortunate.
-- Joyce P, Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo I
The Inca trail trek can only be described as magical. I tried my best to be cynical, but it didn’t work. This trip was pure magic and absolutely perfect.
The logistics of the trip were impeccable. The ground transportation was on time and they made sure I was able to obtain my boarding pass and pay the airport tax at each leg of the trip.
Out on the hike, my guide Oswaldo was fabulous.
The food on the trail was amazing. The chef created simple and fresh meals that were bursting with local flavor.
-- Terry B, Inca Trail 5-day with Andean Adventures
Just returned from Costa Rica last night ... trip was a GREAT SUCCESS! We all thank you VERY MUCH for arranging the trip.
-- Bob Fenchel, Custom Costa Rica with Camino Travel
We’ve been home just over a week now and I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you just how fantastically well everything went! Ok, so we did end up paying the full whack (which I’ve decided just not to think about!). However, we had a fantastic guide and everything ran really smoothly and we had a fantastic time. From being collected from the hotel (Vieja Cuba which was lovely) to being looked after once we got to the Galapagos it was all just perfect, so thank you very much for being an important part of our fabulous trip.
Cheers Greg !
-- Marayka K., Galapagos Multisport 7-Day Adventure
Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace - Galapagos Islands on the M/Y Eric, Letty and Flamingo I
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