THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

It was my first full day traveling the Galapagos Islands on one of Ecoventura’s expedition yachts. I remembered to pack reef-friendly sunscreen and other essentials. But no one told me that a few tissues would also be required. Yes, the Galapagos Islands are stunning—it will bring you to tears. Less than twelve hours after boarding the yacht, I and my group embarked on our first on-shore excursion—an easy Cerro Brujo beach walk. Countless sea lions were lounging on the beach. Within minutes, sea lions surrounded me.

There I was, basking in the equatorial sun—with sea lions. I exhaled in a way I’d never experienced before. That is, until a mammoth bull made way for the water and nearly smooshed me like a grape. There are strict rules about keeping a safe distance, but the sea lions did not get this memo. And so began my Galapagos adventure.

LUXURIOUS ADVENTURES
Ecoventura’s three luxury expedition yachts, Origin, Theory, and Evolve, are part of the Relais & Châteaux family. The yachts exude a boutique feel with tremendous attention to detail. Each yacht is designed to accommodate twenty guests, making for a sea adventurers’ community, and allowing for unparalleled service. Guests want for nothing while on board—the staterooms are cleaned three times a day; the itinerary is stacked with chef-prepared meals and post-activity snacks and, of course, the bar is well-stocked and flowing.

The ten staterooms are an oasis with panoramic windows and breathtaking views. This applies to even the overhead rain showers—drenched in sunlight with frosted glass below and views of the water.

The cuisine is as gorgeous as it is abundant, and I was relieved and delighted by the attention to detail regarding food allergies and intolerances. The dominant theme is fresh, with over half of the ingredients sourced from artisanal businesses based in the Islands. Executive Chef Francisco Vintimilla and staff collaborate with local farmers and prioritize sustainability. Guests are spoiled with plenty of seafood prepared expertly. Still, behind the scenes, important decisions are made to use local, sustainable Brujo (scorpion fish) rather than salmon, as well as spiny lobster and Canchalagua (a shellfish) from local anglers. 

IT’S CALLED PROTECTION
Although they offer trip extensions, Ecoventura offers no standalone three or four-day trips. The thinking here is that such trips increase the overall volume of visitors—and carbon emissions—to the delicate and predominantly uninhabited islands. Eco, not just in name but in practice, Ecoventura was the first recipient of the SmartVoyager ecological certification and, in 2006, became the first carbon-neutral organization in Galapagos.

Every creature, grain of sand, and droplet of water within the Galapagos archipelago is protected by the rules of The Galapagos National Park, and this mission is evident in every activity and adventure during the week-long sailing. Each evening, the naturalist guides provide an overview of the upcoming adventures, including site-specific information on experiencing the immersive environment in a way that protects it for future generations.

The yacht sailed daily as part of the 8-day Beaches and Bays itinerary, including a dozen locations between islands such as San Cristobal, Espanola, Floreana, and Santa Cruz. There were two expeditions each day and deep sea snorkeling most days, which were transformative.  

Not a day has passed that I haven’t thought about floating face-to-face with sea lions and being fully enveloped in a school of iridescent parrotfish a thousand fish deep. Snorkeling alone is reason enough to go. Usually near a rugged outcrop, curious sea lions often dive into the water to play, zipping around and between snorkelers—stopping long enough to get a good look at these newcomers. 

They’re gracious hosts with soft puppy-like eyes and playful demeanors, and although you should never approach them, they might swim over to say hello. Such was the case during a kayaking session along Floreana Island, where three sea lions treated our kayak like a joyous obstacle course for nearly half an hour.  

In addition to snorkeling and kayaking, the itinerary was spilling over with panga excursions and light walks and hikes. Alongside the naturalists, we explored the islands and the wildlife, including Blue-Footed Boobys, Penguins, Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, Galapagos Marine, and Land Iguanas, and—if you’re lucky—you might spot a Frigatebird with its spectacular red chest pouch. 

WHAT TO EXPECT
Plan to arrive in Ecuador the day before you embark—or two days if you plan on sightseeing. You’ll take a domestic flight to San Cristobal Island when you embark. When you arrive at the airport for this flight, you’ll be greeted by Ecoventura staff, who will ensure you have the proper paperwork. Once at the airport in San Cristobal, you’ve arrived in the Galapagos—your adventure awaits.

The Ecoventura fleet is luxurious. In the end, though, my most cherished memory of the yacht experience was how Captain Jhon would be waiting for us—and waving—every time we returned from snorkeling. And Joselyn, the concierge, would hand each of us a small mug of freshly made hot chocolate. The Galapagos are grand, but so are the nuanced gestures of hospitality Ecoventura weaves throughout.

For more information on Ecoventura, visit ecoventura.com