UK +44 (0)1367 850566

USA 1-855-216-5040

What is the best way to explore the Galapagos Islands in Style?

Nicola Shepherd By Nicola Shepherd
10 Dec 2018
marine iguana galapagos lizard ecuador animal.jpg

Making a top list of the world’s best destinations for wildlife is almost impossible or, at least, very contentious, as it is so subjective.

What I do know is that in Latin America, my top pick is and has always been the Galápagos Islands and exploring them by boat is absolutely the best way to do it. I recommend taking a private yacht charter around the islands, where one can select the itinerary to suit one's interests.

Each comes with a specialist guide who gives one a a deep insight into the wildlife and conservation of these magical islands that are so unique. Where else can one see the entire metamorphic cycle of the blue footed booby, for example?

Another wonderful option is joining a small luxury cruise vessel, where one can sail with a small group of like-minded individuals on an exploration of the islands. These have fantastic wildlife guides on board who open up the islands to you to give you the most phenomenal experience.

 

  • View from Bartolome Island Galapagos.jpg

Nothing can beat the unique species here and their sheer abundance, not to mention how unbelievably easy they are to see!! Wildlife in general is notoriously camera and people shy, so it is truly wonderful to be able to come to this archipelago and be welcomed at the beach by a colony of sea lions or marine iguanas resting on the rocks. They have few predators so curiosity has replaced fear.

 

  • Seaman Journey Cruise - Wet Landing at beach with sealions - Galapagos.jpg
  • Family Galapagos - Sealions on beach.jpg

This is a particular bonus when travelling with children as they don't have the same patience levels as adults to wait for that magic moment. They will love the crazy colours of the curiously named Sally Lightfoot crabs or the ‘Lost World’ prehistoric qualities of the large land iguanas. Frigate birds that puff up their bright red chests like balloons or the comical bobbing up and down of Blue Footed Boobies in their mating dance are equally entertaining for young eyes.

 

  • SeaStar Journey - Vessel Exterior.jpg
  • GPS Odyssey Cruise - Kayaking from ship - Galapagos.jpg
  • SeaStar Journey - SeaStar Suite.jpg

The Galápagos Islands though, like many of the world’s wildlife havens, has to fight hard to protect its inhabitants and its environment. Vital to its long-term survival is maintaining its pristine environment and minimising human impact.

I feel passionately about the protection of wildlife and habitats and any time I visit, I ensure that I support those operators and local providers that adhere to the strictest regulations possible on the environment.

 

  • SeaStar Journey - Sundeck and Jacuzzi.jpg
  • private yacht charter.jpg

For example, I was very excited to hear about the introduction of the first trimaran in the Galápagos, called the Camila, which was launched recently. Its reduced friction through the water means increased speed and therefore crucially a saving on the use of fuel. Happily this also means less sailing and greater stability and comfort on board for those who are not such great sea-farers.

 

  • Galapagos Sky - Whale Shark - credit Amos Nachoum.jpg
  • Galapagos Sky - Hammerhead Shark.jpg

Another of my favourite local partners is also building a superb new yacht to be called the Theory, set to join its sister ship the Origin in early 2019 offering a luxury cruise vessel with a host of eco-friendly features. They are also deeply committed to sustainable tourism practices in the Galápagos Islands, being the trailblazers and founding members of numerous conservation and sustainability projects.

 

  • pelikan boot travel galapagos lake sea ship.jpg
  • bird galapagos fregate nest.jpg
  • Galapagos - Frigate Bird with inflated Pouch.jpg

So you can cruise these fabulous islands in superb comfort and with a clear conscience, perhaps also spending some time in the Amazon rainforest for an even more diverse wildlife experience or delving into the colourful artisan villages of the Andean highlands of Ecuador.

If you would like more information on Galápagos cruises, private charters and wildlife holidays I would be delighted to discuss this further.

 

  • Galapagos-Athala Seal.jpg
  • crab galapagos krabbe ecuador wildlife island.jpg
logo