Guide to Galapagos Vessels
Smaller Vessels + Expert Naturalist Guides = a successful and personal Galapagos voyage
We prefer to use smaller vessels which not only guarantee smaller exclusive groups, but which can also access all the best landing sites – some of which are closed to bigger cruise ships.
Favourites include the sister motor yachts Beluga (Premium) and Cachelote (First Class) – both have large spacious interiors, but with only 8 double cabins each and a strong focus on their naturalist guides. All snorkeling equipment is also provided at no extra cost. Great value for those whose focus is on nature and a small personal experience.
Beluga – Superior First Class
Extremely spacious and comfortable
Maximum 16 guests in 8 double en suite cabins
Air Conditioned
Expert Naturalist Guides
Beluga offers the options of a 6 day and 8 day itineraries that visit selected sites which are approved by the National Park; each of these is unique, rich and varied and offers the opportunity to experience the Galapagos up close and personal with a small group led by a highly experienced naturalist guide. The itineraries visit the ‘Eastern’ and ‘Western’ groups of islands, on a rotating weekly basis.
The ‘East’ and ‘West’ itineraries can be combined to form a 15-day itinerary that we highly recommend for those travelers that would like to have a complete, in-depth experience of the Galapagos Islands.
Cachalote Explorer – First Class
Spacious motor yacht
Maximum 16 guests in 8 en suite cabins
Air Conditioned
Expert Naturalist Guides
The Cachalote Explorer cruise itineraries offer the option of 6, 8 and 15-day tours, visiting selected sites approved by the Galapagos National Park. Each of these itineraries is unique, rich and varied and offers the opportunity to experience Galapagos up close and personal within a small group led by a highly experienced naturalist guide. The two 8 day itineraries can be combined to form a 15-day itinerary which we highly recommend to those travelers who wish to have a complete, in-depth experience of the Galapagos Islands on a small cruise yacht.
Sailing options include the Nemo catarmarans – first class and luxurious without being over the top. Again a maximum of 16 passengers ensures a personal experience and smaller landing sites.
Nemo II
Catamaran
Maximum 14 guests in en suite cabins – some bunks, some double bed
Air Conditioned
Expert Naturalist Guides
Nemo II offers the sailing enthusiast a way to sail between the various islands of the Galapagos. Nemo II operates 8 Day North and 8 Day South itineraries on a rotating schedule, commencing from Baltra on a Sunday.
Although it is possible to do shorter 4 and 5 Day versions of the North and South Circuits we’d recommend visiting as many islands as possible to truly appreciate the diversity and differences between the islands.
Nemo III – First Class
Spacious Catamaran
Maximum 16 Guests in en suite cabins – no bunks
Air Conditioned
Expert Naturalist Guides
Like its sister vessel Nemo II the Nemo III Galapagos cruise itinerary rotates the North and South islands on an alternate week basis. Commencing from Baltra on Sunday. Each week can also be divided into a 4, 5 or 8 day cruise. However, as usual we would recommend trying to visit as many islands as possible to appreciate their diversity.
MS Beagle
For those who would like to travel with a sense of history then the M/S Beagle is for you. A magnificent 105-foot twin screw steel-hulled brigantine with teak decks and beautifully designed interiors, The Beagle is in a class by itself among sailing yachts in the Galapagos. She was built by Cubow Ltd. in Woolwich, England, in the 1970’s and registered with Lloyd’s (number Y 195095), but her designer is unknown. She’s been a charter vessel in the Islands for over a decade and has been substantially refurbished under her current ownership. You’ll have superb service with only 14 other guests and the ship is often captained by its owner.
M/Y Passion
For those needing a little more luxury we’d recommend M/Y Passion – a luxury yacht spread over four decks yet taking only 12 passengers. Plenty of space on the spacious sun decks and dining/bar areas for everyone.
There are some small mid range options too – let us know your preference and we’ll try and find a boat to suit your style.
