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What is a Galapagos cruise really like?

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The Galapagos Islands are widely considered to be one of the world’s most captivating wildlife destinations and a journey around these volcanic islands is a wonderful voyage of adventure – but is it right for you?

Many people are, I think, concerned about whether or not a week on a small ship is for them, especially if you are not fortunate enough to have sturdy sea-legs. So we thought it would be useful to let you know exactly what it’s like on board, so you can decide for yourself if it’s right for you. And of course, if you want to see the wonderful unique species of the Galapagos but don’t want to be onboard a ship, then let us know as we can also suggest some wonderful land-based tours too that are equally as special.

Firstly, remember that this is not ‘cruising’ as some people might imagine it. There is no nightly entertainment or shows; rather wonderful small gatherings with your fellow guests to chat over what you saw that day over a sundowner on deck, followed by a short talk by your naturalist guide. These guides are certified by National Park Authorities and we insist on only those with the very highest qualifications and experience. Find out what islands you will be visiting the next day and what possible sightings are in store, how many landings you have and what chances there are for swimming or snorkelling as well as walking, so you know exactly what to bring and to wear; its all arranged for you.

Every day is a day filled with observations of some of the captivating wildlife of this archipelago – which you will see all around you; it’s not at all hard to find! You usually awake early to a wonderful fresh breakfast (or perhaps head out early in the hotter season and then take breakfast when you return) followed by a journey by panga around rocky inlets looking for birds and Galapagos penguins, perhaps spotting manta rays and sea turtles in the clear waters. After a delicious buffet lunch back on board and a little siesta in the shade, return on land to walk across the rocky volcanic landscape looking for marine or land iguanas and marvelling at Galapagos hawks and blue-footed boobies. Cool off after your walk as you arrive at a beautiful beach and snorkel from its shores among groups of very playful sealions. Then return to your ship for the evening to find out what adventures are in store for the next day.

We have selected only the finest Galapagos cruise ships, after having seen many of them personally, that we think offer not just comfortable accommodations but also superb service, engaging and expert naturalist guides and that offer a wonderful selection of itineraries for you, to make sure your Galapagos holiday is unforgettable and extra-special. Our favourites are the smaller ships with only a handful of guests onboard. The food is fresh, beautifully presented and delicious and the cabins, especially on the newer style catamarans, are surprisingly spacious. As for sea movement – well, if you stick to the leeward island itineraries, then it does help minimise this.

We’d love to talk to you about our personal favourite Galapagos cruise ships and itineraries for your own holiday to Galapagos, perhaps combined with Ecuador or Peru.

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