Starboard Exterior of Cachalote Explorer small ship cruising in the Galapagos.
Chaise lounges on Main deck outside on the Cachalote Explorer.
Living room with large couch aboard Cachalote Explorer.
Set tables in dining room by lounge aboard Cachalote Explorer.
Cabin 1 aboard Cachalote Explorer with three beds and window.
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Cachalote Explorer

capacity
16
year built
1988
remodeled
2018
crew members
10
length
88 feet
beam
24 feet
cruising speed
8 knots

M/V Cachalote Explorer is a beautifully decorated motor vessel originally built in 1988 as a Canadian fishing ship and refurbished in 2018 with modern style and comfortable accommodations. With the capacity for 16 guests in 8 cabins, each with their own private bathrooms, showers and air-conditioning, Cachalote Explorer provides the perfect home away from home while sailing between the Galapagos Islands.

Cachalote Explorer Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Cachalote Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plan and photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class Galapagos cruise ship. Read our Cachalote Explorer review below then contact our experts to compare the Cachalote Explorer with other small cruise ships, yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises, including private Galapagos yacht charters.

Choose the Cachalote Explorer if you are interested in sailing the Galapagos aboard a stable and intimate vessel with a history of plying the Pacific all the way down from Canada. The Cachalote Explorer is the modern sister ship of the Cachalote I sailboat, which is no longer operating in the Galapagos Islands. Because some of her cabins can take up to 3 or 4 passengers, the Cachalote Explorer is an ideal ship choice for families.

History of Cachalote Explorer

Originally a fishing boat built in 1988 in Vancouver, Canada, the motor vessel Cachalote Explorer was made for plying the rough waters of the Canadian West Coast, so her stability and seaworthiness offers a smooth and relaxing ride. In 2018, she was remodeled by naval architects: Cabin 8 was added on the Lower Deck, the bridge remodeled and two brand new Isuzu/Stanford Generators were installed in addition to the existing generator and main Caterpillar engine. Today, she sails the Galapagos Islands as a first class motor vessel.

Common Areas Aboard Cachalote Explorer

The sun deck provides a relaxing view between visitor stops, as does the main aft deck and viewing deck on the bow. Her salon and dining rooms are comfortably designed for socializing, having a drink and dining with fellow passengers. Her wooden interiors add comfort and charm.

Activities Aboard Cachalote Explorer

While cruising through the Galapagos Islands, Cachalote Explorer offers the opportunity to observe unique wildlife while walking along unusual volcanic terrain, kayaking and snorkeling the turquoise seas, and spotting dolphins and whales from deck. The Cachalote Explorer carries four single-passenger, sit-on-top kayaks, as well as snorkel gear and two tenders for Zodiac cruising. Wetsuits are available.

Crew Aboard Cachalote Explorer

The Cachalote Explorer’s crew consists of the captain, multilingual naturalist guide, cook, barman, engineers and four sailors, and the vessel complies with all international maritime regulations.

Deck Plan & Cabins Aboard Cachalote Explorer

16 passengers can be accommodated in 8 cabins. Each cabin has a private bathroom with a hot shower, independent air-conditioning units, porthole and 110v power outlets.

Cabin 1 aboard Cachalote Explorer with three beds and window.
Upper Deck Cabins

Cabin 1 has one queen bed, one single bed and one upper single bed. Cabin 2 has one queen bed and one upper single bed. Located on the Upper Deck.

Cabins 3, 4, & 7 aboard Cachalote Explorer with bunk beds and porthole.
Lower Deck Cabins

Cabins 3, 4 & 7 have one lower double bed and one upper single. Cabins 5 & 6 have one queen bed and no upper berths. Located on the Lower Deck.

Cabin 8 aboard Cachalote Explorer with bunk beds, porthole, and view of bathroom.
Lower Deck Cabin 8

Cabin 8 has one lower double bed and one upper single and a slightly smaller square footage. Located on the Lower Deck.

Deck plan of Cachalote Explorer Galapagos ship with 3 decks, 8 cabins, lounge & dining room.
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