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| Nemo I |
 = Trip Summary  = Full trip report  = Video clip |
Yacht:
Nemo I
Travel Agent:
Latin Trails
6 August 2006 (8 days)
Dianne Whitney, USASource: Review Submitted
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Recently Added Review:
Dianne was amazed at the diversity of the Galapagos and couldn't stop taking photos of the landscapes and wildlife.
She gives a big handful of tips to anyone still planning Galapagos Island tours.
Regarding the Nemo I, she is full of praise for this catamaran and its crew who were always nearby - especially helpful during her first somewhat wobbly snorkelling experience... Nemo I review »
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| Nemo II |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Yacht:
Nemo II
Travel Agent:
Happy Gringo
11-18 January, 2009
Debbie Foley, CanadaSource: Review Submitted Rating: Excellent
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Recently Added Review:
Debbie and her 3 travel companions visited the Amazon and Galapagos in Ecuador after months of planning and assistance from their travel agent.
Debbie's feedback submitted to this site is a testimony for Happy Gringo's thorough planning and good customer service.
She was amazed by the massive tortoises she saw on Santa Cruz and although the snorkelling conditions weren't always ideal, saw quite a good variety of marine wildlife too... Cruise Galapagos on Nemo II »
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Yacht:
Nemo II
Travel Company:
Latin Tours
December 2007
Moyra Botta, USASource: Review Submitted Rating: Below Average
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I received a disconcerting review from Moyra just after she returned home from what turned out to be a very disappointing Galapagos cruise.
She says that the service was slow and the food "disgusting" (out of a can and cooked in a microwave).
Various things on the boat went wrong: blocked toilets, broken air-conditioning, gas fumes in the cabins and the main sail broke during their trip as well as the steps to her children's bunk where she hurt her knee.
Moyra says the attitude of the crew left much to be desired, reaching a peak when their naturalist left the boat and was only replaced by another two days later, who then "started shouting from the minute he got on the boat".
The family had been looking forward to scuba diving in the Galapagos but when they couldn't get confirmation that this was possible, it was the straw that broke the camel's back and they abandoned the cruise.
Additional feedback from Moyra: "I did want to let you know that the agent we booked the trip through, Ocean Voyages, refunded us half our money, out of her own pocket as she was mortified to have sent good clients on such a nightmare trip. So, needless to say, we will be using her company in the future as she did everything in her power to get us back home as safely and quickly as possible."
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Yacht:
Nemo II
Duration:
Seven night cruise
13 July 2006
John & RoxSource: TravelBlog
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Both John and Rox rated this as the best trip they have been on, not just for the scenery and the amazing wildlife but also for the fantastic group of people they ended up with on the boat. The highlight of all their Galapagos island tours dives was when the dive master took them down to a depth of 29 meters to find Hammerhead sharks and sure enough, a group of four appeared within minutes. They saw a fantastic array of marine life including sharks, sting rays, turtles, penguins, sea lions and all types of tropical fish...
 
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Yacht & Trip Operator:
Nemo II, Aracari
Destinations:
Five day trip to Bartolomé island, Plazas Island, Chinese hat Island and Isabella Island
03 May 2006
Ralph, AustraliaSource: TravelBlog
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Ralph managed to see most of the amazing marine and land wildlife that is on offer during his Galapagos Island tours. His biggest problem was not a lack of subjects to photograph but which of the 400 pictures that he took to keep. Photography is a snap because the animals don't fear man. He believes that the snorkeling here is world class, proved by the fact that the tally of sightings included curious sea lions, white tipped reef sharks, sea turtles, stingray's jumping out of the water doing back flips, dolphins and 10-15 sharks around the boat at night...
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Yacht:
Nemo IIDestinations:
Five day trip to island of Isabela, "Post Office Bay" on Floreana Island, Isla Santiago, Bartolome Island, North Seymour Island 05 April 2006
Lynne A Source: TravelPod
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You are not only confined to the deck of your yacht on Galapagos Island tours. The passengers could make use of the onboard dingy and go kayaking which allowed them to swim with wild dolphins (the dinghy makes it easier to keep track of them) and explore the island inlets to see rays, penguins and turtles...
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Yacht:
Nemo IIDestinations:
Eight day trip to Isabella island, volcano Serra Negro, island of Floreana, Espanola island and Darwin Station 21 November 2005 Source: Realtravel |
Remember to take sunscreen with of least SPF 30 strength. Anything less and you will probably burn. The lava tube is an impressive location to visit on your Galapagos Island tours. It is about 20 feet in diameter with lights and access stairs installed and was formed by volcanic activity. Be careful of the sea lions when taking pictures. Don't get too close because they bite when feeling threatened. Three people in the group were bitten (scratched but not skin deep) because they ignored this rule...
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Yacht:
Nemo IIDuration:
Eight day trip 20 November 2005
Melissa Carr Source: RealTravel
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The mast of the Nemo II had cracked in half on the previous Galapagos island tours cruise and there hadn't been time to repair it as yet so as compensation Melissa and the other 13 passengers were given unlimited free wine and beer for the whole cruise (nice touch). The yacht was forced to use its outboard engines to travel between islands and not the sail. The Sierra Negro volcano on Isla Isabella had recently erupted and on day three of their trip they went to pay it a visit. The whole crater, which measures about a mile across, was filled with steaming lava that had hardened into a solid crust. Some of the lessons that Melissa learnt on the trip was to keep the skylight closed at night, Dramamine is a good way to combat sea sickness, the islands are basically deserts with rocks and cacti and the water is reasonably cold even near the equator...
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| M/Y Eric |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
M/Y Eric yachtTravel Agent:
CNH Tours
Duration:
8 days cruise 10-17 February 2008
Gene McCullough Source: E-mail interview
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Galapagos Island tours are not the cheapest so Gene was happy to have found a travel agent who knows the islands from extensive personal experience and provided open and honest information during the planning process.
Gene and his wife travel internationally often and prefer smaller groups, so the Eric with its 10 cabins was the perfect choice.
Read this one if you're looking for some good practical tips around a Galapagos cruise and travelling in and out of Quito (like me, he's a fan of the headlamp)... Gene's Galapagos Island vacation »
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| Isabella II |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Isabella IIDuration:
Six day cruise
11 August 2006
Aitmon Atherton Source: TravelBlog
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One of the many highlights of this trip that Aitmon says was indescribably wonderful was swimming with sea lion and getting close to sea turtles, silver tipped reef sharks and hump back whales. Once you have gone ashore on an island its pretty important to get back to the dinghy on time for the trip back to the mother ship. Aitmon learnt this Galapagos island tours lesson the hard way when he arrived back late and the dinghy had already left without him. Fortunately another cruise company came by and took him back to the Isabella II...
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Accommodation:
Isabella IIDestinations:
Five day trip to Darwin research station, Tower island, Fernandina and Isabella islands, James and Bartolome islands 17 December 2004
Victoria Interrante Source: Travel Library
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Victoria is delighted with the Isabella II yacht in which they enjoyed a triple cabin with a double bed, a comfortable bar and lounge area, sunroof with exercise equipment and jacuzzi, a small store and an elegant dining room which serves delicious multi course meals. The highlights of the trip was spotting a very rare Galapagos snake under a tree and visiting the large turtles that can be found on amazing Galapagos Island tours...
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| Daphne |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Daphne yachtDuration:
8 day cruise
May 2007
Anne and Brian Hallgren Source: Real Travel
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Brian and Anne had it on bad authority that Galapagos Island tours do not require a pre-booked cruise. Of course, it is not a requirement, but definitely a better way to go since most cruises are usually fully booked. They were fortunate enough to find two spots on Daphne, a 16 passenger ship, after much fuss searching around for space on other cruises.
They had the opportunity to go snorkelling, visit islands for nature walks and even visit a turtle nesting beach. They got to see hammerhead sharks as well as Galapagos sharks, sea lions, boobies and land iguanas to name but a few.
They both enjoyed the trip very much and although it was definitely not a cheap thrill and the food onboard wasn't very good, it was worth every cent and effort made to be able to experience the natural beauty of the islands and to learn a great deal about the behaviour of the inhabiting animals…
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| Cachalote |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Cachalote cruise yachtDuration:
Six day cruise to six different islands
04 October 2006
Allan & Gill Eastie Source: TravelPod
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This Galapagos islands tours cruise yacht has exquisite food and top class service but at a price. Allan jokingly suggests that the name of the boat should be changed to Costalotty. But he also says that this trip restored his faith in organized tours as Jose, their guide, allowed them plenty of freedom of choice about what they wanted to do next. They both felt very lucky to be able to enjoy the unique and varied wildlife that carries on as if the tourists aren't even there...
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Accommodation:
Cachalote cruise yachtDestinations:
Seven day trip to South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Darwin research station, Española, Floreana, Isabella, Santiago and Bartolome islands 10 August 2006
Kate Moore Source: TravelBlog |
Many people had told Kate what a wonderful experience Galapagos islands tours are and after seeing for herself she wasn't disappointed. The captain of the ship even allowed her to help steer the boat into the bay. One of the highlights of the tour for her was when they were snorkeling around the rocks and fur sea lions torpedoed past them and performed underwater acrobatics. They also swam alongside turtles and white tipped sharks cruised below them...
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Accommodation:
Cachalote cruise yachtDuration:
One week
June 2005
Steve Haigh, UK Source: 
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Steve and his girlfriend had a fantastic time on the Cachalote with private en-suite rooms for everyone. He found the fantastic and plentiful food on the boat to be one of the highlights of the cruise itself.
Another highlight was swimming with playful sea lions. They snorkelled every day but unfortunately they didn't get to scuba dive as (a) it was too expensive and (b) they would have had to add extra time on one of the islands specifically for diving as they don't have their own equipment.
They had a great naturalist guide and he recommends that as part of all successful Galapagos Island tours...» More about his Galapagos adventure
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| Cormorant |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Cormorant yachtDuration:
Seven day cruise
21 October 2006
Bertie Source: TravelBlog |
The Cormorant is an economy class cruise yacht which in the in Galapagos island tours terms is still reasonably expensive and Bertie found the cabins to be small and encountered the seemingly inevitable engine trouble that plagues so many yachts here which they managed to overcome by using the sails. Even so, the trip was spectacular and their guide Victor was more than up to the task of showing them all the favorite sights like sea lion, iguana, countless birds and fish, reef sharks, rays, penguins, dolphins, bull sharks and sea turtles. At the end of the week Bertie was tired from all the Galapagos island tours activities but very sad to be finishing. The islands had lived up to their reputation yet again...
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Accommodation:
Cormorant cruise yachtDuration:
Eight day sail to Rabida, Santa Cruz, Bartolome, James, North Seymour, Plaza Sur and Santiago islands 25 June 2006
Katie & Matt Source: TravelBlog |
Kate describes the Cormorant as a tiny but beautiful antique boat (built in the eighties) and their first meal on board was fabulous which boded well for the rest of the week. One of the amazing sights that they saw was a huge manta ray jumping clear of the water and performing somersaults right behind the boat. The sea lions pups around Plaza Sur on their Galapagos island tours itinerary were a little bit too playful as Katie and Matt swam with them because they administered some nips which drew blood. The pups also played chicken by swimming straight towards them and swerving at the last instant, blowing bubbles at them and staring right at their faces from 6 inches away...
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Accommodation & Trip Operator:
M.S. Polaris, Lindblad Expeditions
October 2002
Sandy Callanan, USA Source: Review submission
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The Galapagos was the best trip that we have been on.
The animals were so plentiful and approachable. Birds, lizards, sea lions were everywhere. You had to be careful not to step on them because they are not afraid of humans.
We learned alot, did lots of hikes on the various islands and the snorkeling was awesome - tons of beatiful fish - even a couple of reef sharks. Snorkeling with the sea lions was wonderful.
We were there in the dry season, which was great, but we'd like to go back in the wet season. Naturalists said they are completely different islands then.
Galapagos Island Tours Rating: Beyond Compare
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| M/V Eclipse |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
M/V Eclipse
July 2008 (4 days)
Carol Flaherty, USA
Trip rating: Beyond compare
Source: Review submission
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Recently Added Review!!
"Beautiful displays of food at the tables. Varied buffets. Rooms with ambience. Guides very knowledgeable.
Overall, memorable and comfortable trip. OH! Lots and lots of activities. Every morning either a hike or snorkling. Same every afternoon.
Slide shows that prepared us for the next day every evening."
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| Santa Cruz |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Santa Cruz yachtDuration:
One week cruise
July 2006
Eduardo (Zuri) Landazuri Source:
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Zuri can quite easily be classed as an expert on Galapagos island tours because he has been going there for the past 20 years since he was eighteen. Living in Quito means he can nip over pretty often.
I was fortunate enough to be able to interview him and pick up some Galapagos travel gems that can only be gained from long experience.
If you only ever read one travel report about the Galapagos make it this one because the tips and advice that he shares about the islands will be invaluable for your own trip...Zuri's Galapagos vacation trip report »
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Accommodation:
Santa Cruz yachtDuration:
Five day cruise
18 July 2006
Andy & Lynne Source: TravelPod
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The Santa Cruz is one of the larger yachts operating in the Galapagos island tours waters with a passenger capacity of 90. Andy found it a little ominous that they were playing the theme song from Titanic while everyone was boarding. The boat was filled to capacity and Andy was pleasantly surprised by how spacious and comfortable their stateroom was. The food was good and plentiful too, with snacks and treats on constant offer. Presentations given by members of the crew who are trained naturalists happen frequently such as the one given by Rosie about the Galapagos crab. Both Andy & Lynne wished that they had booked the Galapagos island tours expedition for a full week rather than five days because they were enjoying the trip so much...
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Accommodation:
Santa Cruz yachtDuration:
Eight day expedition to San Cristobal , Espanola, Isabela, Fernandina, Baltra, Santiago, Genovesa, Santa Fe and Santiago islands 07 May 2006
Gus C Source: TravelBlog |
Gus was originally booked on a 16 person yacht but fortunately for him the Galapagos island tours travel agent made a double booking and then offered to upgrade his trip to the Luxury 90 passenger Santa Cruz liner and make up the difference in cost to apologize (a costly mistake of $500 extra per person). According to Gus the boat was brilliant, the service was top notch and the food and cocktails were never ending. They also had one of the best naturalist guides (Grace) and they were able to visit some of the less frequented islands because of being on a bigger boat. Every day they went hiking and snorkeling on different islands and drove around in the zodiac dinghies to get around. They saw most of the wild and marine life that it's possible to see in the Galapagos and for Gus it was the best experiences ever...
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Boat:
Santa CruzDuration:
4 days 5th July 2004
Liz & Ken Meadley, Australia Source: Review submitted |
Recently Added Review!!
Liz & Ken found the cabins of Santa Cruz small but fine, and the food more than made up for it.
They had a different guide each day for the various Galapagos island tours, who were all good.
When Liz starts talking about the wildlife she seems to run out of superlatives. She ends off by recommending a Galapagos trip to everyone, despite the high cost, and only regrets not staying longer... Liz and Ken's Santa Cruz review »
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| Angelique |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Angelique cruise yachtDuration:
Four day cruise 08 November 2006
Lucy & John Source: TravelBlog
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The original Galapagos island tours guide who would have accompanied them on the Angelique got ill just before they left and the replacement was a degree trained biologist who spoke fluent English and did an excellent job. Lucy and John both suffered from sea sickness on the trip but that didn't prevent them from enjoying this amazing destination. They saw most of the animals they wanted to see both on land and in the ocean because they want for walks and snorkeled every day...
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Accommodation:
Angelique cruise yachtDuration:
Seven days, six nights 19 September 2006
Stephen Source: TravelBlog
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Stephens first impressions of the boat was that it didn't look exactly like the pictures of it but it was nice and cosy and the crew was very friendly. The food was excellent and conversation between all the passengers was in English even though some were from France, Italy and Germany. Stephen spent the first night stargazing on the front deck and actually fell asleep there before waking much later to go to his cabin. The whole Galapagos island tours experience was fantastic and even though he is afraid of the sea he managed to overcome his fear and swim with sea lions, turtles and sharks...
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Accommodation:
Angelique yachtDuration:
Five days 02 June 2005
Alex Source: TravelBlog |
From the first moment that Alex boarded the Angelique he felt justified in his decision to settle for a shorter Galapagos island tours cruise so that he could upgrade to a better boat. He felt instantly at home walking barefoot along the decking and particularly enjoyed the fact that the crew was very laid back about where he went on the boat so he was able to spend his days climbing, hanging and leaping off the deck and rigging without getting yelled at about liability insurance. Alex found the double cabins to be cramped but perfectly adequate as he could almost stretch out fully in his bunk. The sea was rough when they moved from island to island but he thankfully didn't suffer from any sea sickness and could sleep through the night...
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Accommodation:
M/V Evolution
yacht
Destinations:
Ten day trip to 8 Islands: Hood, Santa Cruz, Tower, Fernandina, Isabela, Santiago, Bartolome and North Seymour Islands
1 July 2006
Karen Harkey, USA
Trip Rating:
Excellent Source: Submitted Travel Review
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We chose this boat for a number of reasons, but mostly small group & stable
size vessel.
With only 28 passengers and 18 crew we were cared for to the nth degree. The
food was great, accommodations spacious and VERY clean.We had two naturalist
guides who were both from the islands. They were very experienced and the
outings as well as evening briefings were full of information. In fact, the
evening lectures were so interesting, it ALMOST made me want to be in school
again. The ship was large enough to be smooth through the roughest seas, yet small
enough to still be intimate. I would highly recommend anyone to travel with Quasar Nautica on Galapagos island tours, especially
aboard the M/V Evolution... |
Accommodation:
Archipel II yacht
Destinations:
Four day trip to Isabella Island, Elizabeth Bay, Ferdandina Island and Bartolome Island
16 April 2006
Steve & Sophie LudgateSource: TravelBlog |
For Steve and Sophie their Galapagos Island tours were the highlight of
their world trip. It's that good.
They were amazed at how close one can get to the wildlife (almost tripped over a few sea-lion) because they have no fear of humans.The most important tip that they give is to book in advance because they struggled to find a yacht on short notice...
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| Amigo |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
AmigoDuration:
4 days February 2007
Julia Source: TravelPod |
A visit to Bartolome island gave Julia and her family the opportunity to see marine turtles nesting, interestingly enough in broad daylight. She writes that their guide was a bit puzzled by this change in behaviour since turtles nest at night.
They also got to see sea lions, frigate birds, iguanas and red throated lizards on Santa Fe Island, and went swimming with penguins. What struck her was the absolute clarity of the water and the variety of marine life encountered while snorkelling.
They were happy with the cruise but warn that for those not used to being out at sea, Galapagos Island tours can be a little daunting not to mention nauseating. She is happy to report that none of them actually got sick although there were times when they felt a little ill.
The climb to the upper most lookout point of Bartolome Island was well worth it she says, leaving her with a breathtaking view that will be locked in her memory for many years to come…
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| Beluga |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Beluga YachtDuration:
Seven day cruise 01 October 2006
Joe & Nosi Source: TravelBlog |
There were a total of 14 passengers on the Galapagos island tours yacht with ages ranging from 21 to 82. The boat itself has a huge sun deck and bar area and Joe and Nosi had a hot shower in their cabin that was more powerful than the one they have at home. One of the disappointments of the trip was their guide Mauricio who did his job without enthusiasm and seemed to be bored by the tourists, but even so they had a fantastic time. The food was very variable ranging from soya meat with red wine sauce to bread omelette but always with plenty of salad and vegetables...
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Accommodation:
Beluga YachtDuration:
Eight day cruise 10 September 2005
Nick & Sarah Weber Source: TravelBlog |
Nick and Sarah had better luck with their English speaking guide Sylvia who they thought was excellent. The crew were a great bunch of guys and the food spectacular. They got along very well with the other passengers on the boat, a total of 7 from Britain, 4 Americans and 2 New Zealanders. They hadn't done much research before their Galapagos island tours trip but by the end of it both agreed that it was the best impulse buy they have ever made. They were sad to leave the Beluga when the time came to say goodbye...
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Accommodation:
The Pelikano cruise yachtDuration:
Seven day cruise 14 October 2006
Fiona & Mike Source: Getjealous |
Walter, a native Ecuadorian with 22 years experience of the islands was their excellent guide and he knew virtually everything there is to know about Galapagos island tours. The cabin Fiona and Mike were given had a double and single bed and en suite facilities. They were treated to a fantastic buffet dinner but wondered about the wisdom of eating so much when the boat began to pitch and roll later as they moved between the islands. A tip from Fiona for Galapagos island tours: Don't try and shower when the boat is in a heavy swell because you pick up a few bruises. The generator on the boat failed straight after dinner one evening and they were plunged into darkness for awhile so they went on deck to do some stargazing...
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Accommodation:
The Pelikano yachtDestinations:
Seven day trip to a number of the Galapagos islands 25 September 2005
Stephie, Switzerland Source: TravelPod |
Stephie found her Galapagos Island tours to be wonderful and incredible but suggests that you need to go for at least a week because there is so much to see. Spectacular sunsets, bizarre landscapes, colorful birds and fish are the order of the day not to mention the swimming iguanas, crabs, dolphins, penguins and more...
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| Flamingo |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Flamingo yachtDuration:
Eight day cruise 25 December 2006
Eileen Ogintz Source: Takingthekids |
The captain of the Flamingo, Manolo Martinez, invited a different family to dinner at his table every night to get to know them a little better which is a nice touch. Eileen enjoyed the food on board which consisted of three course meals and included a soup starter, fish or chicken, rice and salads for the main course and dessert like ice cream or upside down cake. No snacks in between meals apart from cookies or crackers when they get back from a beach excursion. Remember to take the Imodium with you on Galapagos island tours as it was a great help for Eileen when she picked up a stomach ailment that had been affecting crew members and passengers all week. She felt much better by lunchtime but was sorry that she missed the mornings snorkeling where a big sea lion circled close to the swimmers and they explored an underwater cave...
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Accommodation:
Flamingo yachtDuration:
Eight Day cruise 10 October 2006
Craig Source: TravelPod |
Craig describes this as a trip where you get sensory overload in terms of fauna and flora which is pretty accurate. His top five Galapagos island tours experience list is as follows...- Getting very close to a seal pup while snorkeling
- Three massive green turtles around Isla Santiago
- Isle Bartolome
- Volcanic rock pools
- The bird life
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Accommodation:
Explorer II operated by Canodros
boatDuration:
5 day cruise
(Bartholomew, James Island, Fernandina, Isabella, North Seymour, Santa Cruz and Mosquera) May 2007
Veronica and Madison Source: Personal blog |
Before boarding Explorer II, Veronica and Madison were slightly apprehensive as to how they would enjoy living aboard a cruise ship for a week. They were pleasantly surprised by the facilities, the friendliness of the crew and the quality of the food. Activities offered included scuba diving, educational lectures and snorkelling. They both recommend a cruise aboard the Explorer II defining it as one of the most comfortable methods of experiencing Galapagos Island tours.
They had some trouble with their flight into Galapagos, cutting their first day short due to a delayed arrival, but managed to get there in time to board and they report that after this one hiccup everything else ran smoothly.
Two excursions per day meant that they got to see quite a lot on their trip, each island offering its own unique variety to the blend, with North Seymour standing out as their favourite because of the abundance of birds and their tame nature.
They write that although taking a cruise as opposed to venturing out on a yacht costs almost double in price it was well worth not having to compromise comfort…
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Accommodation:
GAP Explorer II
boatDuration:
Eight day cruise 21 November 2006
Michael Creasy Source: Michael Creasy's blog |
The first outing to a beach filled with sea lions took place soon after Michael boarded the Galapagos island tours boat so they had little time to get used to the cozy cabins and relax. They did have a quick lunch after being introduced to the crew and then they were whisked away in the landing boats (pangas). One of the wildlife highlights for Michael were the blue footed boobies especially as they could get very close because the birds weren't afraid of them at all. The mating ritual of raising one foot and shaking it at a potential mate was very comical. Also impressive was an underwater cave with a hole in the roof that erupted with a plume of seawater and spray every time a large wave came in on Espanola Island...
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Accommodation:
GAP Explorer II
boatDuration:
Five day cruise 12 September 2006
Rebecca Spargo Source: TravelBlog |
Rebecca was also completely charmed by the sealions and swimming with them provided her with the most memorable moments of the whole Galapagos island tours experience.
The dominant bull sea lion needs to be avoided however because they are aggressively territorial and will attack if you spend too much time in an area that they have claimed as their own which is normally a short stretch of the shore line.
Attacks are fortunately rare with their Galapagos island tours guide only having seen two in the eight years of his experience.
Rebecca did suffer from motion sickness due to the fact that the seas were a little choppy as they moved between islands but in spite of that she wasn't ready to go back to dry land after five days because she was enjoying the islands so much...
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| M/Y Samba |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Samba yacht
Tour Operator:
CNH Tours Trip Duration:
3 weeks total in Ecuador 2-14 March 2008
Douglas Smith, USA Source: E-mail interview |
Recently Added Review!!
Doug did not pick any favourites on his two Galapagos Island tours, but chose to savour all of what this unique place has to offer.
His most recent trip was in March, the month with the highest average rainfall and he can now attest to that fact as they had rain every day while in Ecuador. However it did not spoil his holiday which was also enhanced by their excellent naturalist guide.
Doug's Galapagos trip report warns that you should keep a tight hold of your wallet in Quito...
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Accommodation:
Samba yacht
Tour Operator:
CNH Tours Duration:
8-day cruise 29 Jan-5 Feb 2008
Sally Datars Source: E-mail interview |
Sally found their cabin on the Samba a bit small, but the food good and the guide very pleasant and knowledgeable.
She loved swimming with the sea lions, got very lucky with a sea turtle nesting sighting and enjoyed the view of the islands from Pinnacle Rock.
Sally rates her Galapagos tour a 10 out of 10: Galapagos Island trip impressions »
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Accommodation:
Samba yacht
Tour Operator:
CNH Tours Duration:
8-day cruise 26 Feb-4 Mar 2008
Lynn Highland Source: E-mail interview |
Lynn covers various aspects of Galapagos Island tours in her trip report. She is an experienced traveller and her detailed packing list shows it! If you haven't thought of taking Woolite and Ziploc bags to Galapagos, you'll learn their value in Lynn's tips section.
She found it difficult to single out highlights and pick a favourite island because everything was just so wonderful. Snorkelling in the crystal clear water does seem to head up her list however.
Go to the full review of Lynn's Galapagos tour »
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Accommodation:
Samba yacht,
Casa Sol B&B (Quito), Hotel Fernandina (Puerto Ayora)
Duration:
2 weeks including cruise 14-28 July 2007
Dennis Wiederholt, USA Source: |
Dennis is a keen traveller who usually travels solo. However to get the most out of Galapagos Island tours it's a good idea to join a cruise ship and have a guide who knows the islands.
His guide, aptly named Darwin, was fantastic and according to Dennis really made the trip special. His trip report contains valuable practical information, not least of all that July is a good time for cruising due to the calm waters.
Read all about his Galapagos cruise »
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| M/Y Letty |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Letty boat, Hotel La Fontana (Guayaquil)
Tour Operator:
CNH Tours
(make an enquiry)
Duration:
1 week cruise 23-30 September 2007
Paul de Vries, The Netherlands Source: E-mail interview |
Paul was very satisfied with CNH Tours' helpful, personal service regarding all things Ecuador. They arranged his whole Galapagos trip which he describes as luxurious but still affordable. He and his brother experienced small hiccups at their Guayaquil accommodation, but none with their flight to Galapagos.
The Letty has a 20 person capacity for Galapagos Island tours but they were only 14 in the group. He thought the food, cabins and crew were all good and that the guides were enthusiastic.
The highlight of his trip was snorkelling with the sea lions but he saw a wide variety of other marine wildlife as well as birds and land animals.
Paul got sea sick on the crossing from Genovesa to Fernandina (two of his favourite islands along with Espanola) but apparently it was unusual for the sea to be that rough. He took sea sickness tablets on the following nights which kept him from getting sick again.
His overall feeling about the trip was that it was "very, very good!" If he could change anything, he would visit either Santa Cruz or San Cristobal but not both as they are quite similar. Other advice from Paul is to remember your camera!
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| Lammer Law |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Accommodation:
Lammer Law trimaran
Duration:
1 week cruise Early February 2008
Penny & Darryl, UK Source: TravelBlog |
The success of Galapagos Island tours depend largely on the quality of the boat used for travel, and Penny and Darryl report that the Lammer Law is top notch not only as far as the facilities go, but also regarding the service and hospitality offered by the crew.
They especially make mention of Jorge, their guide, whose passion and familiarity with the islands and its inhabitants inspired a genuinely remarkable time for them onboard the eight cabin trimaran (multihulled boat).
The two of them particularly enjoyed the activities available on the 500 mile (804.67 km) cruise such as kayaking, snorkelling and hikes along the islands which made for incredible animal sightings including tortoise, iguanas, fur seals, dolphins, boobies, penguins, turtles, sea lions, lava lizards, hammer head sharks and many more…
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Accommodation:
The Free Enterprise
Destinations:
Six day trip to Charles Darwin research station, Bahia Tortuga, Isla Plaza Sur, Isla Rabidas, Chino Sombrero, Isla Santiago, Bartolome Island, North Seymour Island
13 April 2006
Tas and Noel, UK Source: TravelBlog
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When booking your yacht for Galapagos Island tours you might be subjected to the same treatment as Tas and Noel. BEWARE!!! Their tour was canceled due to 'mechanical failure' which often actually means: - The travel agent is trying to make more money out of you by booking you on the next available tour at a higher price.
- There are too few people on your tour so the agent needs to move you to a trip that is more fully booked to turn a profit.
Like Tas and Noel, stand firm and ask for a place on the next available Galapagos island tours date at the same price...
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Accommodation:
The Free EnterpriseDestinations:
Eight day trip to most of the Galapagos islands 02 April 2006
Bill Shum Source: TravelBlog
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Bill found the yacht to be clean and well kept, old but sturdy with 10 cabins below and upstairs dining for 20. One of the metre long frigate birds that are numerous on the island flew so close to the boat that Bill was able to reach out and stroke one of its wings from the roof. The snorkeling was excellent from the beach and on the reef so you don't need to be a scuba diver to enjoy all the fantastic sea life on Galapagos Island tours.
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Accommodation:
The Free EnterpriseDestinations:
Eight day trip to Charles Darwin centre, Baltra Island, Santa Fe, Isla Espanola, Isla Floreana and Sullivans Bay 30 April 2005
Martin and Heike, UK Source: TravelPod |
Martin and Heike were worried about how their choice of Galapagos Island tours yacht would turn out but in the end it all went very smoothly with great food and a very friendly and helpful crew (if a little silly at times). They managed to go swimming with green turtles, Galapagos penguins and sea lions and saw white tipped shark, sting and manta rays and many different kinds of fish...
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Islands Visited:
Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Seymour, Mosquera, Beagle, Guy Fawkes
Tour Operator:
Independent
Duration:
About 10 days May 2007
Simon & Alison, UK Source: TravelBlog |
Simon and Alison knew that simply heading out to Galapagos with nothing booked in advance might hinder the possibility of a prospective cruise around the islands, and they were right as everything was fully booked by the time they attempted reservations. So if a cruise is how you plan to make your way around Galapagos, be sure to have it booked and ready before your arrival.
Determined to still see as much as possible they geared on in their own capacity making use of various diving excursions and island outings, enabling them to experience an authentic, if not fully organised Galapagos tour.
Alison says that although the water could get pretty rough out at sea, and the current sometimes forced them to hold on for dear life, they managed the dives considerably well and even ventured a little deeper than their certificates allowed for. They got to see quite an array of animals including amongst others hammerhead sharks, sea lions, barracuda, tuna, iguanas and blue-footed boobies.
In the highlands of Santa Cruz they visited a tortoise ranch, El Chalto and made their way to a volcanic tunnel that was nearly ten meters high…
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| Anahi |
= Trip Summary = Full trip report = Video clip |
Islands Visited:
Santa Cruz, Isabela, Bartholome, Daphne Major, Santa Fe
Tour Operator:
Latin Trails
Duration:
10 days September 2007
Zbandicoot Source: Frommers |
This couple had a holiday that, had it not been for the courteousness of the Ecuador people and the excellent service of their travel agent and tour companies, would have been a disaster fit for a rant.
Their ship, along with four others, broke down in the harbour due to faulty fuel, they went on a horse ride but the horses never came and when returning home, American Airlines had cancelled their flight.
Nevertheless they ended up having a wonderful time being pampered onboard the Anahi (when it was finally repaired and ready to go) and for the remainder went out on day excursions such as diving, snorkelling and cycling that satisfied their hunger for exploration and relaxation. Against all the odds they managed visits to various islands.
Being vegetarian they were unsure if they would be catered for but the food they had everywhere along their trip was exceptional…
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February 2008
Steve Gucci, USA
Trip Rating: Excellent
Source: Submitted travel review |
"My wife and I went on the Celebrity Expedition, a 90 passenger ship with a local crew and 6 local naturalists. Two to three outings a day with three levels of intensity.
This was soft adventure at its best. Good (not great) food; super service and accommodations; a very well trained and attentive staff of naturalists. From start to finish this was a great trip."
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Tour Operator
Maple Leaf Adventures
November 2007
Maureen Gordon, Canada
Trip Rating: Excellent
Source: Submitted travel review |
"My husband and I did this tour in November 2007 and were so impressed with it, we decided to offer it to our own clients back home.
The wildlife just stands there and generally ignores you. The photography opportunities are AMAZING. We usually had 2 shore trips per day, looking at animals that ranged from boobies (3 kinds!), to frigate birds, albatrosses, iguanas, giant tortoises, flamingos and of course those irrepressible sea lions.
We also snorkled several times, with sea turtles, Galapagos penguins (!), rays and beautiful fish. And those sea lions again.
Excellent accommodations, too, on the yacht, and great naturalist. The food was fine - not great but totally fine - and I had a very low level of motion sensitivity the whole time, so just felt like eating pasta and nothing else anyway.
The tour also included an incredible behind-the-scenes tour of Old Quito, a UN World Heritage site city. This is a special add-on that's not included in a general Galapagos tour."
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