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galapagos overview
Set along the equator, some 600 miles off the South American coast of Ecuador, is a crown jewel of the natural world. The Galapagos Islands live up to dreams of a sheltered place far removed from the usual worries of the world. The skies are almost always sunny, and the sea breezes create that perfect air temperature that instantly relaxes the body. The ocean is an ever inviting turquoise blue, matched by long sandy beaches of crystal white, pink, black and looking-glass green. There are crystal coves and sheltered mangrove lagoons.
What will make your visit here truly exceptional are the many opportunities for close up encounters with wildlife. The islands and surrounding waters are quite literally teaming with exotic and colorful creatures evolved without a fear of humans. This results in a series of daily peak experiences including snorkeling with playful sea lions, tracking giant tortoise and trading stares with unconcerned iguanas. Bird life is abundant, varied and fearless. You may have to give way as a blue footed booby crosses your path, or have the opportunity to observe a Galapagos hawk perched just a few steps away, as an albatross launches itself off a cliff on a journey that will encompass thousands of miles.
The environment beneath the ocean's surface is extraordinary, with large tropical and cold water fish found swimming together. Pacific green sea turtles, Galapagos penguins and rays are underwater passers-by while dolphins, whales and whale sharks are frequent visitors to the archipelago. The young Charles Darwin, fresh from university, visited here in 1835 during the voyage of the HMS Beagle. Darwin maintained that the Galapagos was the source of his ideas and research for The Origin of Species. Many of the discoveries he came upon are still in evidence, including the volcanic, island-constructing wonderland of sculpted lava flows, giant lava tubes and crystal inlets shaped by eruption and erosion.
The Galapagos seas tend to be very calm, making travel by yacht the ideal and often only way to see the most the islands have to offer. This is just one reason why our small vessel cruises focus on the natural history of the islands and remain the most sought after trips in the islands. There are no large cruise vessel crowds descending upon a single iguana on our voyages. Our yachts are recognized worldwide for their seaworthiness, comfort and luxury. Each is tailored for a one of a kind uncrowded and flexible experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, active adventurers, divers, families, birdwatchers, sea kayakers and anyone seeking a cruise like no other. All of our yachts have private bathrooms, hot showers and air conditioning. We offer both hearty and gourmet meals. There is plenty of space to stretch out either in the sun or under shade to relax in the comfortable marine atmosphere.
Our philosophy and approach has resulted in attracting a team of the very best guides the Galapagos National Park has to offer. Each has spent years studying biological and earth sciences at university, combined with years of experience leading trips in the Galapagos Islands. They are personable, interesting and entertaining individuals intent on conveying their deep understanding and love of their treasured island archipelago. They will leave you in admiration of the natural wonders of the Galapagos and the planet we call home.
