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Galapagos Premium Dive Trip Aboard the M/Y Sky Dancer (8 Day/ 7 Night)

by: Ecoventura   4.178575
From USD $4,595.00 Per Person
*Save $500 per person on select departures and get 2 nights free at the Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil on selected dates! ...details

Overview

Itinerary

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Start city(s): San Cristobal, Galapagos
End city(s): San Cristobal, Galapagos
Trip length: 8 days
Activities: Scuba Dive, Dive Boat, Wildlife Viewing, Snorkel
Destinations: Galapagos Islands, Galapagos Islands
Min/Max group size: 2 - 20
Comfort: First Class
First Class
Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty
Moderate Difficulty
*Details may vary with dates. Select dates to see exact details.
...view photos

Radiant fish and bizarre animals emblazon the waters around the Galapagos and exhilarate divers and snorkelers. Seventeen percent of the fish and 35% of the marine invertebrates in the Galapagos are found only in this isolated archipelago. The abundance of otherworldly underwater animals evoke a sense of exploration and mystery. Swept by both the cold waters of Antarctica and warm currents from the tropical Pacific, Galapagos' colorful marine life embodies an unusual mixture of species. Here, penguins swim with tropical fish and iguanas feed underwater. The marine animals exhibit the same bold curiosity and lack of fear characteristic of terrestrial wildlife. The dazzling realm beneath the sea captivates curiosity as much as the islands themselves. Discover both on board the M/Y SKY DANCER, our 16-passenger 100-foot custom designed dive live-aboard. Built in 2001, the SKY DANCER offers the newest and best-equipped vessel and ultimate diving experience in Galapagos for serious divers. There are two types of cabins offered on the Sky Dancer. Prices listed are for the Deluxe cabins, which have twin beds, private facilities, Portlight view, mirrored cabinet, wardrobe, bathrobes, hairdryer, toiletries, fresh towels daily, A/C and volume controls. Also available are Master Cabins, which include two twin beds (that can be joined), private facilities, window view, mirrored cabinet, wardrobe, bathrobes, hairdyer, toiletries, fresh towels daily, A/C and volume controls.

Highlights

The elegant Sky Dancer is fully air conditioned throughout and features rich teak paneling and furnishings, a dining area, a fully stocked bar, and a main salon with an audio and video entertainment center. On deck, ample space is allocated for personal dive gear storage, a photo and video film lab, light tables, daily E-6 processing and open deck space for sunbathing. Divers appreciate our wide stern dive platform with fresh water showers, fresh water rinses, dive deck assistance and photo and dive equipment rental services.

Zodiacs ferry divers between exquisite dive sites and the anchored yacht. Most underwater forays are drift dives. Up to four dives per day will be offered on a pre-planned, yet flexible itinerary.

Enjoy the Galapagos in style with creature comforts our partner, Peter Hughes Diving is well known for. After every dive, wrap up in a fresh warm towel, and snuggle into plush, terrycloth bathrobes found in each cabin.
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Abbreviated Itinerary

8 Days / 7 Nights

SUNDAY: San Cristobal/ Isla Lobos
MONDAY: Seymour/ Bartolome
TUESDAY: Wolf/ Wolf
WEDNESDAY: Darwin/ Darwin
THURSDAY: Wolf / Darwin
FRIDAY: Cape Marshall/ Puerto Egas, Santiago
SATURDAY: Gordon’s Rocks/ Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz
SUNDAY: Interpretation Center/ San Cristobal

...see full itinerary

Trip Options

Deluxe Stateroom upgrades
2010 - $4795

Senior Divers (65 yrs & above) - $150 reduction with proof of age

Full time students (max 22yrs) - $100 discount
...view more details

Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?

Excellent diving in the Galapagos includes the renowned northern islands of Wolf and Darwin, famous for their schools of hammerhead sharks, giant manta rays and whale sharks. In between dives, walk the shores and marvel at volcanic rocks dotted with rate plants, seabirds and reptiles.

The dazzling realm beneath the sea captivates curiosity as much as the islands themselves. Discover both on board the M/Y SKY DANCER, our 16-passenger 100-foot custom designed dive live-aboard.
...view more details

What kind of person will enjoy this trip?

Experienced SCUBA divers.
...view more details

Overview

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 (Sunday)

Upon arrival to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, the crew of the Sky Dancer meets you at the airport and escort you to your dive live-aboard. After the initial briefing, there is a mandatory check-out dive at Isla Lobos where we encounter sea lions.

At sunset, we circumnavigate Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), a vertical tuff cone formation that abruptly juts up almost 500 feet out of the ocean. Here we see blue-footed boobies, masked boobies and magnificent frigatebirds on the cliffs.


Day 2 (Monday)

In the south side of Seymour Island and no deeper than 50 feet deep, the northern channel is superb. It features an enormous “field” of garden eels, stingrays, a school of spotted eagle rays, white tipped reef sharks, and thick schools of grunts, snappers & goatfish. When Dr. Silvia Earle described Galapagos as “the fishiest place in the world”, she must have been describing this dive site.

On Bartolome, a lunar landscape stretches out in front of us. This young Island is inhospitable to most plants and animals. After a dry landing, climb 30-minutes up a steep slope to the summit of a once active volcano. From the top, gaze out across a panoramic view including the famous "Pinnacle Rock", an eroded tuff cone. Down below, crystal clear water invites you to swim with tropical fish. Penguins often swim in this area.


Days 3-5 (Tuesday to Thursday)

We spend the next three days diving WOLF & DARWIN with up to four or five dives per day on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday before returning to the Central islands. Most experienced divers will agree, Wolf and Darwin are the best diving sites in the world! Sightings of the whale shark are common here. There are no land visitor sites here, just serious diving. At the Northern Arch at Darwin, Hammerhead sharks are not uncommon, nor are bottlenose dolphins. The reef contains many warm water varieties of fish found nowhere else in the Islands and is the most consistent place to see Hammerheads
Darwin Island: Considered by many experienced divers as the very best dive site in the world, The Arch at Darwin island honors its reputation. It is warmer by a few degrees than the central islands. In one single dive you can find schooling hammerhead sharks, Galapagos sharks, large pods of dolphins, thick schools of skipjack and yellow fin tuna, big eye jacks, Mobula rays, and silky sharks. From June to November, we can almost guarantee whale sharks in numbers of up to 8 different individuals in one single dive. The presence of occasional tiger sharks, black and blue marlin and killer whales, adds on to this amazing diving experience. If you still have time to look for smaller stuff, you’ll find octopus, flounders, and an enormous variety and abundance of tropical fish. Darwin Island is the biggest jewel on the Galapagos Crown.

Wolf Island: One of those magical islands, with several dive sites to choose from. If you want to see sharks, you are at the right spot. This is a place for schooling hammerhead sharks, large aggregations of Galapagos sharks, and occasionally whale sharks. Seeing dolphins, large schools of tuna, spotted eagle rays, barracudas, sea lions and sea turtles is common. The bottom is littered with hundreds of moray eels, many of them free swimming. Being several degrees warmer than the central islands, you can look for many representatives of the Indo-Pacific underwater fauna.


Day 6 (Friday)

At Cape Marshall on the eastern side of Isabela island, we encounter rocky volcanic cliffs, that drops down to the ocean floor as an almost vertical wall. You might see large animals like manta rays, marbled rays, hammerhead sharks mola mola (sun fish) and marine turtles, but also Chevron barracuda, snappers, yellow fin tuna, rainbow runners, wahoo and groupers. There are also a lot of smaller fishes like creole fighes, parrot fishes, scrawled filefishes, pacific box fishes and tiger snake eels.

This afternoon, we disembark for a land visit along the shore at Puerto Egas, SANTIAGO (James) 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 oystercatchers 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. During the night dive at a depth of no more than 30 feet we may find the red-lipped bat fish.


Day 7 (Saturday)

Gordon Rocks, off South Plaza Island, an advanced dive, is famous for white-tipped, hammerhead and the Galapagos shark, large moray eels, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, sting rays, fur sea lions, sea turtles, Amberjacks, reef fish, sponges and black coral. Dive with Wahoo, tuna, sailfish and other big pelagic fish. Divers consider the wall at Gordon Rocks one of the best dive sites in the Central Islands. The current is strong and the maximum depth is 100 feet.

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on the Island of Santa Cruz. Scientists from all over the globe work at the station and conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. Get your picture taken with the giant tortoises. Observe year-old tortoises and learn about the captive-breeding program. Stroll through the town of Puerto Ayora (population: 15,000) –the largest town in the Galapagos. Buy souvenirs, mail postcards and absorb local charm in the social heart of the Islands.


Day 8 (Saturday)

This morning, we visit the Interpretation Center to learn more about the natural and human history of the Islands before returning to town to connect with your flight back to the mainland.

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Trip Dates & Prices

ONGOING SPECIALS

*2010 Promo Departures!, save USD $500 May 9  May 2  Apr 18  Apr 11 
Take $500 off trip price on select dates. Receive 2 free nights in Guayaquil with accommodations at the Hotel Oro Verde. Book by Apr 20, 2010

Select a departure date Select departure

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Additional Services

This provider can help with your other additional needs

  • local flights
  • transfers
  • additional accomodations
  • trip extensions
... and other requirements.


Request these additional services when you check availability above

What's Included

Cabin accommodation, all meals, snacks, beverages (including national brands of alcohol), filled tanks, weights, weight belt, 21 dives and 3 land excursions, service of naturalist guides, dive masters, transfers in the islands between airport and dock (on cruise dates), all other Dancer Fleet services and amenities

Not Included

International airfare to Ecuador, Airfare to Galapagos, Galapagos entrance fee ($100), hyperbaric chamber fee ($35), Transit Control Card ($10), gratuities to guides and crew, purchases at the boutique, Nitrox course or fills, dive gear equipment rentals, underwater photo course or camera equipment.

Overview

Itinerary

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Customer Reviews

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Overview

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Customer Reviews

Details

Photos

What's Included

What's Included

Cabin accommodation, all meals, snacks, beverages (including national brands of alcohol), filled tanks, weights, weight belt, 21 dives and 3 land excursions, service of naturalist guides, dive masters, transfers in the islands between airport and dock (on cruise dates), all other Dancer Fleet services and amenities

Not Included

Not Included

International airfare to Ecuador, Airfare to Galapagos, Galapagos entrance fee ($100), hyperbaric chamber fee ($35), Transit Control Card ($10), gratuities to guides and crew, purchases at the boutique, Nitrox course or fills, dive gear equipment rentals, underwater photo course or camera equipment.

Notes

Trip Notes

Sky Dancer's 7 night itinerary offers a total of approximately 19 dives and 4 land excursions, and covers 565.5 nautical miles of ocean. It has only one very long navigation (15 hours from Bartolome to Wolf). Tender diving is the rule rather than the exception. There will be up to 4 dives per day including night dives at Wolf and Darwin.

Children 10 and older are allowed only if they are certified divers. If non divers, children must be 16 years of age or older.

Transportation On Trip

Transportation Description

The Sky Dancer accommodations include eight comfortable staterooms located on two decks.

The elegant Sky Dancer is fully air conditioned throughout and features rich teak paneling and furnishings, a dining area, a fully stocked bar, and a main salon with an audio and video entertainment center. On deck, ample space is allocated for personal dive gear storage, a photo and video film lab, light tables, daily E-6 processing and open deck space for sunbathing. Divers appreciate our wide stern dive platform with fresh water showers, fresh water rinses, dive deck assistance and photo and dive equipment rental services.

Transportation Types

Yacht/Sailboat

Lodging - Accommodations

What are the accommodations like?

Each cabin features two twin beds, private head/ shower, mirrored cabinet, wardrobe, full length mirror, window view or port light, bathrobes, hairdryer, toiletries and fresh towels daily.

Lodging Types

7 Nights Yacht

Details

What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.

COMPRESSORS: Two high pressure, two Nitrox systems.
NAVIGATIONAL AIDS: VHF and HF-SSB radios, GMDSS, color radar,
echo sounder, Furuno GPS
SAFETY AIDS: EPIRB (emergency position indicator radio beacon)

Tell me about the guides on this trip

A twelve person crew includes your Captain, a Dive instructor/ Naturalist, a divemaster/ naturalist, an administrator, and seven crew members, on hand to ensure that your Galapagos voyage transcends into a treasured adventure.

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.

Minimum Age

10

Maximum Age

None

Yachts - Ships - Live Aboard Boats

Boat Length

100 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.

Provider Policies

Trip Specific Policies

Proper id required for Senior, Child, and Student discounts.

Non-Diver Discount: Non divers traveling on a live aboard with a diver are eligible for a $200 reduction in the rate.

Child Discounts: Children 10 and older are allowed only if they are certified divers. If non-divers, children must be 16 years of age or older. Full time students up to age 22 with proper identification are eligible to receive a $100 student discount.

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.

Purchases on Board: There is a “Boatique” on board that sells a selection of logo clothing, film, batteries, etc. Every guest has an open tab, which is paid on the last day of the cruise. We accept cash, Travelers checks, VISA, Mastercard, or American Express.

Galapagos Dive Guides: Ecoventura will supply an expert dive Instructor and a dive master who is also naturalist guides certified by the Galapagos National Park Service. The guides are qualified divers with essential knowledge of specific diving locations with their respective interests and dangers.

Dive Equipment: Divers are required to bring their own dive equipment, including:
Mask, fins, and snorkel, regulator depth and pressure gauges, bottom timer or dive watch, Buoyancy compensator device (BCD), dry suit or thick wet suit (1/4 in or 5-7 mm), hood and gloves, Flashlight and chemical light sticks (for night dives), Open water diving certification and required safety equipment including a dive alert, inflatable safety sausage (surface marker buoy) and mini-strobe.
Optional items: Underwater camera, video camera, dive computer.

Each diver is required to bring and dive with the personal safety devices on every dive. If you do not already own your own surface safety equipment, we strongly encourage you to visit your local dive store to purchase them prior to commencing your Dancer Fleet voyage. You should be able to obtain all three items for under $150. Divers who do not have this required equipment will not be allowed to dive. We will maintain a limited inventory on each vessel for rental but we strongly encourage you to get your own, and be familiar with it. A “Surface Safety Package” that includes all three items will rent for $30 for 7 nights. This new policy does implement a modest rental charge for guests who arrive without the equipment. However, it ensures that every diver will enter/exit the water with the best possible tools for coping with an unforeseen emergency.

Dive Alert: This is an air-powered surface signaling device that transmits a loud noise over distances much further than you can shout or whistle. It is powered by the air from your tank.

Inflatable Safety Sausage (Surface Marker Buoy): This device can be inflated using your alternate air source or your lungs. It raises a bright orange or yellow tube approx six feet about your head. Waving this while on the surface greatly increases your visibility to the crew on your vessel or tender. The safety sausage may be carried in your BC pocket or tethered to your BC.

Mini-Strobe: When activated, this compact marker strobe flashes a light at regular intervals. It is a good way to indicate your position on the surface during dusk or night dives to the vessel or tender.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES OFFERED ON SKY DANCER

Nitrox certification course (4 hours): $150 including two supervised dives
Nitrox completion course: $50 for two dives + written exam if referral is not from PADI.
Unlimited fills: $50 for 7 nights (with full certification course)
Unlimited Nitrox fills: $150 weekly
Nitrox: $10 per fill (a la carte)


Dive gear equipment rental rates:
Limited quantities of diving equipment are available for rent on board.

Set of regulator, gauges and octopus: $10 per day, $50 weekly
BC with dive alert: $10 per day, $50 weekly
7mm wet neoprene wetsuit: $10 per day, $70 weekly
Dive computer: $15 per day, $75 weekly
Dive light: $8 per day, $40 weekly
Complete set of gear including dive computer: $300 weekly
Safety package (includes all items below): $6 per day, $30 weekly
Diver alert: $3 per day, $15 weekly
Safety Sausage or Mini-Strobe: $2 per day, $10 weekly

Underwater camera rental rates:
Package rentals include a Digital Nikon Coolpix 4300 (4 megapixels), Fantasea CP-4 Pro Housing for $65 per day, $30 per extra day or $180 weekly.

Video and souvenir DVD: On board editing and sound dubbing equipment is available for the production of custom videos. A DVD will be filmed during your trip and offered for a purchase price of $60


Dive certification and safety wavers:
The Galapagos National Park regulations require that all guests must carry their Diving Certification Cards for verification of your training. Photo copies will not be accepted. Please bring your certification card and log book(s) for verification of your dive training and experience. You will be required to complete and sign a “Waiver Of Claims, Express Assumption Of The Risk, Release Of Liability, And Indemnity Agreement” form prior to your arrival. Please remember that you alone are responsible for determining your medical and physical fitness to dive or to take part in any other activities during this trip.
ALL DIVING AND SHIPBOARD ACTIVITIES ARE CONDUCTED AT YOUR OWN RISK. We take no responsibility with respect to your determination. If you have any questions concerning your medical or physical fitness to dive or take part in any such activities, please conduct your personal physician.

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.

Pricing Policies

See Terms and Conditions

Cancellation Policies

See Terms and Conditions

Overview

Itinerary

Dates & Prices

Customer Reviews

Details

Photos

Divers leaving the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Divers leaving the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Hammerhead shark, scuba diving Galapagos Islands
Hammerhead shark, scuba diving Galapagos Islands
Beautiful fish, scuba diving Galapagos Islands from the Sky Dancer
Beautiful fish, scuba diving Galapagos Islands from the Sky Dancer
Dive Table, Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Dive Table, Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Sea Lion and Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Sea Lion and Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Relaxing on the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Relaxing on the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Cabin on the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands
Cabin on the Sky Dancer, Galapagos Islands


Private Bathroom on Sky Dancer, Galapagos
Private Bathroom on Sky Dancer, Galapagos
Dining aboard Sky Dancer, Galapagos
Dining aboard Sky Dancer, Galapagos
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TESTIMONIALS

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

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 mosquitos but on the boat there is shade, wind and no bugs! Great amount of variety of animals and geography we saw. Sad to leave!

-- Wendy K., Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, and Flamingo

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