Luxury travel company AndBeyond is set to expand its South America portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht for just 12 guests in the Galapagos Islands this summer.
With just six suites and cabins, the Galapagos Explorer yacht has been designed to create an elevated guest-to-staff ratio for an intimate tour of the iconic archipelago off Ecuador’s coast.
The 38-metre vessel will sail around the natural wonder on two seven-night itineraries; one exploring the east side of the main cluster of islands, and one exploring its younger and larger western side.
On the eastern route, guests can expect to see the magnificent formation of the volcanic Kicker Rock on San Cristobal Island, as well as views of the critically endangered waved albatross on Espanola Island.
The cruise’s western route includes an exploration of the geographical centre of the Galapagos Islands and the Sombrero Chino Island. Both routes are also packed with opportunities for guests to be immersed in nature, with hiking, snorkelling and birdwatching just some of the activities on offer.
On each voyage, two expert tour guides will be present to enhance guests’ appreciation of the islands while also offering insight on the environmental threats facing the region.
Consisting of 18 main islands, the Galapagos is renowned for having some of the world’s most remarkable flora and fauna and was designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1878. Many of its plants and animals are endemic to the region, making it a sought-after destination for nature lovers and evolutionary scientists alike.
It is also home to a number of endangered species, including the Galapagos giant tortoise, the marine iguana, and the blue-footed booby.
“A uniquely biodiverse environment with the highest number of endemic species in the world, the Galapagos is a natural choice for the further expansion of our portfolio in South America,” said Joss Kent, AndBeyond’s executive chairman and chief executive. “We are absolutely thrilled to finally have the opportunity to bring our brand of responsible tourism to this precious part of the world, which the Ecuadorian government has protected from over-tourism by strictly limiting the number of operating licences issued.”
AndBeyond’s Galapagos Explorer will make its maiden voyage on 17 June 2024, with rates starting at $10,950 per person for a seven-night cruise.
Its highly-anticipated launch succeeds the Aqua Mare, which was introduced to the brand’s portfolio in 2022, and hailed as the world’s first ever true superyacht to sail to the remote region.
