Galapagos Conservancy Annual Cruise
The one-week annual expedition features an itinerary designed by the most knowledgeable experts on Galapagos. Travel on a spacious yacht that is equipped with a sun deck with outdoor seating, Zodiac rafts, a grill, a covered bar area, a Jacuzzi and a shaded lounge on the upper level. The ship's Salon deck has a library, dining area, galley, the Captain's cabin and the guide's cabin, while the boarding platform, reception area, double staterooms, single stateroom and king-bed suite are located on the Cabin Deck. An experienced tour leader and guest speakers from the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos Conservancy will provide exclusive behind-the-scenes access to current research projects and educate you about environmental efforts to preserve the unique ecosystem. Learn about the biological, evolutionary and geological history as you participate in guided tours as well as hikes, kayaking and snorkeling or scuba excursions around the islands.
Galapagos Conservancy Annual Cruise
Galapagos Conservancy
11150 Fairfax Boulevard, Suite 408
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 383-0077
galapagos.org/2008/index.php?id=154
Adventure Smith Explorations
The eco tourism company offers several cruises and vacation packages around the islands. Travel aboard the Sea Finch yacht while taking day trips to explore the natural attractions and local wildlife. The 11-day Galapagos Adventure, an all-inclusive package, includes hotels, transfers, tours, flights to Galapagos Islands and park fees. This tour offers the opportunity stay at the exclusive Finch Bay Eco Resort, one of the most luxurious hotels in the Galapagos, rather than sleeping aboard a yacht. After a day of hiking, kayaking, swimming or snorkeling excursions lead by expert local guides, you can enjoy dining, the private beach, swimming pool or comfortable cabanas available at the resort. For an extra fee, choose from a variety of optional activities, including challenging hikes, horseback riding, mountain biking and scuba diving.
Adventure Smith Explorations
3090 North Lake Blvd. Suite #5
Tahoe City, CA 96145
(877) 620-2875
adventuresmithexplorations.com/adventures.php/d/galapagos
Galapagos Travel
Travel in comfort from island to island on a 16-passenger chartered yacht. The floating hotel normally travels quietly during the night so you will be able to wake up in a new location each morning. Approximately three natural history vacation tour packages are available each month. The trips generally spend 11 days in the Galapagos but there are also several 14-day excursions offered throughout the year. A biologist leads the educationally oriented tours and is accompanied by a local Naturalist Guide who will provide wildlife information as well as make sure the rules of the National Park are honored. Workshops offer an in-depth orientation to the islands as well as to the local plants and animals. The first tour of the day usually departs around 7 a.m. in order to take advantage of sightseeing and photographic opportunities. A second tour is scheduled later in the afternoon each day.
Galapagos Travel
783 Rio Del Mar Boulevard, Suite 49
Aptos, CA 95003
(800) 969-9014
galapagostravel.com/
Article Written By Betsy Bender
Betsy Bender is a media consultant with experience in publishing, event management, media relations, digital media and television production. Specializing in entertainment, travel and sports, Bender has worked with high-profile personalities, facilitated publicity campaigns for network television programs and traveled to more than 100 cities in eight countries, including Russia and Australia.