JOU RN One history, a thousand inspiring stories.
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One history, a thousand inspiring stories.
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The travel business is a people business. Although the bricks and mortar and shipping steel are important, at the end of the day, it’s the warmth of the smiles, the sincerity of the help, the human bond, that make the difference. For over 60 years, Metropolitan Touring has been characterized by that difference. Creators, promoters, sellers, organisers, coordinators, hosts, pioneers, yes. But above all, friends to all those who have come into contact with the company – and every contact, every bond, a story.
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This is our spirit, vision and passion, which we share with each of our guests.
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Spirit, Vision, Passion:
The Metropolitan Touring In many ways, our company’s origins as the pioneers of travel in the Galapagos Islands have set our course over the last decades. The fragility, the specialness, the singularity of the islands and their wildlife have formed our belief in a travel experience that is founded on respectful contact with the natural world and human culture, filled with interpretation, understanding and a long-term vision – and, of course, fun! Here, in our home country of Ecuador, we constantly innovate and invest to make sure your experience is top-notch from start to finish. We provide four different top-quality ways to see our beloved Galapagos and its incredible Galapagos Big15 wildlife: three world-class vessels and the Finch Bay
difference
Galapagos Hotel offer our guests impeccable service and gastronomy along with the best expedition itineraries. In Quito, we made bold incursions as owneroperators so that our guests can experience the Old Town’s cultural wonders right at their doorstep at Casa Gangotena or immerse themselves in the unexplored nature of Mashpi Lodge with the top-quality products that have always characterized our operations. And we work every day to identify the best way for our guests to see the rest of the country with other world-class products that enhance your visits to charming Cuenca, the highlands and the coast. But our clients wanted more. The neighbouring countries of Peru and Colombia
called out to them. So under the leadership of Executive President Paulina Burbano de Lara, in 2007, we expanded our operations to Peru, and in 2010, we entered Colombia, our brother country to the north. Our wholly-owned offices in each of these countries provide our guests with the key local knowledge to fully appreciate the world-class destinations in their countries and cement our ability to provide transformative travel experiences. So keep in touch, friends old and new. Our spirit drives us to constantly seek out exciting ways to embolden your journey in comfort, safety and style. Relax while you learn, marvel while you distance yourself from the humdrum and the mundane and enter a new realm of discovery!
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Our
Commitment Story
It is said that one of the things every human being must do during their lifetime is plant a tree and watch it grow. As a company, Metropolitan Touring has adopted this concept as a long-term vision, one in which we give back to our communities and help preserve the iconic destinations we visit. We then incorporated it into our day-to-day actions, for example by sponsoring talented students from local schools in the Galapagos, inviting them to embark on voyages of discovery aboard our original Santa Cruz. Over the last decade, hundreds of these young GalapagueĂąos have been privileged to discover the true extent of the wonder of the archipelago in which they live: amazingly, without these tours, they might take their incredible local surroundings for granted. One student we are particularly proud of is
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Christopher Naranjo. At the age of 15, he was invited aboard the Santa Cruz and spent a few days in awe of the wildlife as well as in admiration of the guides who led the groups. A few years later, he graduated from high school, took the Naturalist Guide course with the National Park, and applied to become a Metropolitan Touring guide. Today, he holds this position with great pride and is passionate about showing others the beauty of his homeland. Our FundaciĂłn GalĂĄpagos promotes and implements many outreach campaigns designed to protect life on the islands, improve education and job opportunities for local communities, and ensure proper recycling and waste disposal. Everywhere Metropolitan Touring goes, we carry with us our banner of deep-rooted
social and environmental responsibility, as a result of which we are honoured to have received a number of awards, including: • Honourable Mentions in Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s World Savers Award in 2008 and 2010; •“Best Ground Operator” Latin American Travel Association annual awards in 2008 and 2009; • Finalist nomination in the World Travel & Tourism Council’s ‘Tourism for Tomorrow Awards’ in 2009; • “South America’s Leading Green Hotel” for the Finch Bay Eco Hotel in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2016, and “World’s Leading Green Hotel” 2014 & 2015 by the World Travel Awards.
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Inspire your
curiosity,
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write your
own story
We believe that travel should make the world seem a different place from how you knew it when you left home. With travel comes a new outlook, progeny of curiosity. And on each departure from the familiar, our senses are more awake, our barriers lowered, our desire to understand more acute. In this heightened
state, stories are born: encounters, smiles, sunsets, highs, lows, moments that can touch the sublime. Every one of us lives such stories. We cherish them, pocket them, tuck them into our hearts. Stories are implicit to the travel experience, explicit to life. Long may your story inspire you and inspire others.
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The
Galapagos Islands
There is no place on Earth like the Galapagos Islands. Far out in the Pacific Ocean, this archipelago was formed by titanic geothermic upheavals that created volcanic islands, some of which are still in the throes of creation today. When Charles Darwin visited in 1835, he observed a pristine, naturally-isolated living laboratory that would inspire and refine his theories, which he would release upon the world – to shattering effect – decades later. After all these years, the islands retain their
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ability to amaze: The magic Darwin found 180 years ago is still thriving in this remarkable environment. Walk among unique species, such as marine iguanas basking in the sun, and observe the elaborate mating rituals of bluefooted boobies, albatrosses and frigatebirds. Unthreatened by predators, Galapagos creatures are undisturbed by visitors, who, one and all, come away inspired and changed by their experience of this untouched natural world.
Metropolitan Touring pioneered travel to the Galapagos. We pride ourselves on the quality of our trio of expedition cruise vessels and our eco-hotel, our safety standards, our loyal and outstanding staff, and our commitment to giving our guests an incomparable experience of the Islands while preserving their riches for future generations.
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OUR VALUED ASSETS We proudly own and operate three top Galapagos vessels: Yachts La Pinta and Isabela II and the Santa Cruz II expedition ship - and our award - winning Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, Casa Gangotena boutique hotel, and Mashpi Lodge. Ecuador’s finest assets and our more than 60-year heritage make Metropolitan Touring one of Latin America’s finest destination management companies. Our Vision: To lead the way of excellence in the travel industry in South America.
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Finch Bay Eco Hotel
Yacht La Pinta
Mashpi Lodge
Yacht Isabela II
Santa Cruz II
Casa Gangotena
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The Best Balance of Galapagos Activities and Exploration Conceived for operations in remote areas, our state-of-the-art expedition vessel evinces the perfect infrastructure for Galapagos exploration. Carrying its crew’s heritage of decades of experience working in the islands and just over 70 metres long, the generous, 5-deck craft holds 50 cabins for 90 guests and features ample, generously-sized social areas indoors and out that allow guests to make the most of their Galapagos cruise experience With an intelligent layout, including wide hallways and broad stairwells, guests will immediately know their way around. From interior and exterior dining areas, the fitness room and hot tubs, to the elegant bar and lounge, not to forget the well-stocked library, the ship is designed to please with
sophisticated simplicity. Each passenger will find their own special space as the ship offers one of the top 5 guest-space ratios of all Galapagos passenger vessels. And the luxury 3:2 guest/crew ratio guarantees quality individual attention. As our most versatile vessel, she’s able to accommodate a great variety of requirements tailored to guests’ interests–from interconnected cabins to groups in different languages and all ocean activities permitted within the National Park. An extra Underwater Naturalist allows guests to make the most of swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking activities. And the Onboard Expedition Photo Specialist will help guests capture their best memories of a journey of a lifetime.
www.santacruzgalapagoscruise.com
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Outdoor Terrace 18
Glass-Bottom Boat 19
Expeditions Veranda
Expedition Lounge & Library 20
Panorama Bar & Lounge
Beagle Restaurant 21
Darwin Suites
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Explorer Family Cabin
Explorer Cabin
Voyager Cabin
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Top Features Santa Cruz II: • Exclusive island visits: 99% of visitor sites are not shared with other vessels • Small groups: On average, approximately 11 guests per guide versus 16 permitted by the National Park authorities • Expedition expertise: Our itineraries, carefully planned by our on-staff specialists, provide the best opportunities to see Galapagos Big 15 wildlife on each trip; • All aquatic activities authorised by the National Park: Glassbottom boat, kayaks, snorkelling, swimming, and panga-based coastal exploration • Privacy: One of the top 5 Guest-Space Ratios of all Galapagos passenger vessels (29.6) with numerous social areas for private contemplation, educational activities and socializing • Separate lecture rooms: Available for simultaneous presentations
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• Flexible accommodation arrangements: 90% of all cabins include convertible beds and 72% of cabins are interconnected • Service: A guest/crew ratio of 3:2 provides the basis for an impeccable journey • Fine dining: A Le Cordon Bleu-educated gastronomy director • Health care: A well-equipped infirmary with a Medical Officer (M.D.) on board (24/7) offering consultations free of charge • Onboard expedition photo specialist available to support guests in their search for the best photographic memory of their journey • Environmentally responsible: Modern engine technology for lower fuel consumption, on-board water production (desalination plant) and water treatment plant to reduce each guest’s environmental impact
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Itineraries ROUTE 5D-4N ITINERARY EEASTERN GALAPAGOS SATURDAY TO WEDNESDAY SAN CRISTOBAL (START) - BALTRA (END) 6D-5N ITINERARY WESTERN GALAPAGOS W WEDNESDAY TO MONDAY BALTRA (START) - BALTRA (END) 5D-4N ITINERARY NNORTHERN GALAPAGOS MONDAY TO FRIDAY BALTRA (START) - SAN CRISTOBAL (END) 10D-9N ITINERARY EA WESTERN E ASTERN AND W GALAPAGOS SATURDAY TO MONDAY SAN CRISTOBAL (START) - BALTRA (END)
GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS BIG15 BIG 15
Galapagos Albatross
E W N
Galapagos Penguin 26
E W
Blue-footed Booby
Nazca Booby
Red-footed Booby
Flightless Cormorant
American Flamingo
Frigat and
mingo
Pinta
Marchena Genovesa Darwin Bay
Prince Philip’s Steps
LAT 0º00’00’’ EQUATOR
Punta Vicente Roca
Buccaneer Cove Puerto Egas
Tagus Cove
Santiago
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina
Bartolome North Seymour
Urbina Bay
Baltra Itabaca Channel
Rabida Las Bachas
Santa Cruz
South Plaza
Giant Tortoise Reserve
Puerto Ayora
Charles Darwin Research Station
Isabela
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal
Santa Fe Pto. Baquerizo Moreno
Post Office Bay
Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Centre
Punta Cormorant / Champion Islet
Gardner Bay
Floreana
Punta Suarez
Española
Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
Galapagos Hawk
Land Iguana
Marine Iguana
Santa Fe Iguana
Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal
BIG15 BIG 15
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
E
11/15
W
12/15
N
11/15
E W
15/15
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2017 Itineraries
Eastern Islands
ISLAND
Saturday
Puerto Baquerizo Moremo Airport
Sunday
ISLAND
San Cristobal Island
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal Island
Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island
South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
Monday
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Optional Activities
Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday
Punta Suarez
Española Island
Gardner Bay
Española Island
Wednesday
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
AM VISITS
ISLAND
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Punta Vicente Roca
Isabela Island
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina Island
Tagus Cove
Isabela Island
Urbina Bay
Isabela Island
Western Islands
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Thursday Friday Saturday
Floreana Island
Sunday Monday
Baltra Airport
Aquatic Activities
North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
Optional Activities Champion Islet & Punta Cormorant
Santa Cruz Island Floreana Island
Baltra Island
Important Notes Our expeditions include:
Not included:
• Shared transfers to/from airport in Galapagos* • Airport assistance* • Accommodation • All meals • Naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish • Island excursions and optional activities in Santa Cruz • Snorkelling gear • Kayak • Glass-bottom boat
• Air transportation to / from Galapagos • Galapagos entrance fee and migration control card • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • Tips • Personal expenses • Wet suits: available for rent • Internet / Wi-Fi** • Phone calls**
* Restrictions apply
** Due to the Galapagos’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth.
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Aquatic Activities
Highlight
Aquatic Activities
5DA 4NIG
North Island
Highlight
North Seymour Fernandina Island
PM VISITS
Wednesday
6DAYS / 5NIGHTS
Aquatic Activities
Española Island
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
AM VISITS
10D 9NIG
Easte West Island
2017 Itineraries
ISLAND
Monday
Baltra Airport
Española Island
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
Tuesday
Northern Islands
Wednesday Thursday Friday
Highlight
ISLAND
Baltra Island
Las Bachas
Santa Cruz Island
Buccaneer Cove
Santiago Island
Puerto Egas
Santiago Island
Red Beach
Rabida Island
Bartolome Island
Bartolome Island
Prince Philip´s Steps
Genovesa Island
Darwin Bay
Genovesa Island
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Aquatic Activities
ISLAND
Saturday
Puerto Baquerizo Moremo Airport
San Cristobal Island
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal Island
Sunday
Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island
South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
Monday
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Optional Activities
Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday
Punta Suarez
Española Island
Gardner Bay
Española Island
Optional activities
Santa Cruz
Punta Vicente Roca
Isabela Island
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina Island
Tagus Cove
Isabela Island
Urbina Bay
Isabela Island
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday
Highlight
Aquatic Activities
Highlights
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Tortoise Breeding Centre San Cristobal Island
AM VISITS
Wednesday
Aquatic Activities
Floreana Island Baltra Airport
North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
Tortoise Reserve Champion Islet & Punta Cormorant
North Seymour & Fernandina Island
Eastern Western Islands
PM VISITS
Española Island
North Seymour Fernandina Island
10DAYS / 9NIGHTS
Aquatic Activities
Genovesa Island
AM VISITS
Highlight
Santa Cruz Island Floreana Island
Baltra Island
These itineraries are for reference only. Our route and programmes may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety and operational reasons and the wildlife we encounter.
Aquatic activities:
Snorkelling
Panga Ride
Kayaking
Glass-bottom boat
Beach
Swimming
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2018 2018 Itineraries Itineraries 5D-4N 5D-4N ITINERARY ITINERARY GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS NNORTHERN NNORTHERN MONDAY MONDAY TO FRIDAY TO FRIDAY BALTRA BALTRA (START)(START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END)
Fe
7D-6N 7D-6N ITINERARY ITINERARY GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS EEASTERN EEASTERN FRIDAY FRIDAY TO THURSDAY TO THURSDAY (START)(START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA 5D-4N 5D-4N ITINERARY ITINERARY WESTERN WESTERN GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS W W THURSDAY THURSDAY TO MONDAY TO MONDAY (START)(START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA 11D-10N 11D-10N ITINERARY ITINERARY W W ANDAND WESTERN WESTERN EEASTERN EEASTERN GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS FRIDAY FRIDAY TO MONDAY TO MONDAY BALTRA BALTRA - BALTRA - BALTRA
GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS BIG15 BIG15
Frigatebird Frig Flightless American Galapagos Galapagos Albatross Albatross Blue-footed Blue-footed Booby Booby Nazca Booby Nazca Booby Red-footed Red-footed Booby Booby Flightless American Flamingo Flamingo and Magn an Cormorant Cormorant
N
N
E
E
W
W
E + WE + W
Galapagos Giant Tortoise 30
Genovesa Darwin Bay
Prince Philip’s Steps
Punta Vicente Roca
0º00’00’’
Buccaneer Cove
Tagus Cove
Puerto Egas
Santiago
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina
merican Flamingo Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
Bortolome
North Seymour
Mosquera Urbina Bay
Baltra Itabaca Channel
Rabida Dragon Hill Eden Islet
Las Bachas
Santa Cruz
South Plaza
Giant Tortoise Reserve Charles Darwin Research Station Puerto Ayora
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal
Santa Fe
Isabela
Pto. Baquerizo Moreno
Punta Cormorant / Champion
Post Office Bay
Floreana
Gardner Bay
Punta Suarez
Española
Galapagos Hawk
Land Iguana
Marine Iguana
Santa Fe Iguana
Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal
BIG15
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
E
N
11/15
E
13/15
W
12/15
+W
15/15 31
2018 Itineraries
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
Western Islands
Northern Islands
Saturday Sunday Monday
Baltra Airport Punta Vicente Roca Charles Darwin Research Station Baroness Tower / Post Office Bay
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Baltra Island
Dragon Hill
Santa Cruz Island
Isabela Island
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina Island
Santa Cruz Island
Optional activities
Santa Cruz Island
Floreana Island
Punta Cormorant / Champion Islet
Floreana Island
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
AM VISITS
ISLAND
Monday
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Las Bachas
Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday
Buccaneer Cove
Santiago Island
Puerto Egas
Santiago Island
Red Beach
Rabida Island
Bartolome
Bartolome Island
Prince Philip´s Steps
Genovesa Island
Darwin Bay
Genovesa Island
Tortoise Reserve / Baltra Airport
Santa Cruz Island / Baltra Island
Wednesday Thursday Friday
Aquatic activities:
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AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
Snorkelling
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
Panga Ride
Kayaking
Glass-bottom boat
Beach
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
HIGHLIGHT
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
HIGHLIGHT
Genovesa Isla nd
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
Friday
ISLAND
Fernandina Island
Thursday
AM VISITS
Swimming
2018 Itineraries
Friday
Eastern Islands
Saturday
ISLAND
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno San Cristobal Island Tortoise Breeding Centre
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Mosquera Islet
Mosquera Islet
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal Island
Sunday
Santa Fe
Santa Fe Island
South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
Monday
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Optional activities
Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday
Punta Suarez
Española Island
Gardner Bay / Osborn Islet
Española Island
Eden Islet
Santa Cruz Island
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Wednesday Thursday
AQUATIC ACTIVITIES
HIGHLIGHT
North Seymour Española
7DAYS / 6NIGHTS
AM VISITS
North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
Itineraries for reference only. Our routes and programmes may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety and operational reasons, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Important Notes Our expeditions include:
• Shared transfers to/from airport in Galapagos* • Airport assistance* • Accommodation • All meals • Naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish • Island excursions and optional activities in Santa Cruz • Snorkelling gear • Kayak • Glass-bottom boat * Restrictions apply
Not included:
• Air transportation to / from Galapagos • Galapagos entrance fee and migration control card • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages • Tips • Personal expenses • Wet suits: available for rent • Internet / Wi-Fi** • Phone calls** ** Due to the Galapagos’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth.
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Darwin Suite
Total
Explorer Cabin
2
3 17 23
3
Explorer Family Cabin
Interconnecting Cabins
2
6 12 18
Darwin Suite (3) 325.2 ft2 / 30.2 m2 9.5 ft / 2.9 m
3
2
43
2
36 17.2 ft / 5.3 m
Sky Deck Panorama Deck Expedition Deck Horizon Deck Ocean Deck
Voyager Cabin
16.9 ft / 5.1 m
19.3 ft / 5.9 m
Cabin Distribution
Capacity: 90 guests/50 cabins *Beds in most Explorer Cabins can be joined from twins to doubles.
Refurbishment Construction Gross Tonnage Passenger Space Ratio Type of Vessel Capacity Length Beam Speed Electricity Engines
2015 2002 2664 tonnes 29.6:1 Expedition Vessel 90 guests 71.8 metres 13.4 metres 10.5 knots 440V 220 V - 110 V (60 Hz) 2 Cummins engines KTA 38 - MO of 850 HP each
Fire Detector Life Jackets Life Rafts Landing Boats Owner Decks Crew Naturalist Guides Guest-Crew Ratio Medical Officer Certifications
Fire detectors throughout In each cabin 14 (27 passengers each) 6 ETICA (METROPOLITAN TOURING) 5 60 8 (Includes Expedition Leader) 1:5 (3 guest to 2 staff members) Permanently on board ABS Classification Certificate, SOLAS 74, MARPOL, ISPS code, ISM code
• Bar & lounge • Restaurant • Outdoor terrace / BBQ • Gift shop • Fitness room • Reading room and natural history library • Multiple purpose room • Hot tubs (2) • Air-conditioned throughout • Satellite telephone • PA system • Wi-Fi hotspot (intermittent/ low bandwidth connection) • 24/7 coffee station (free coffee, tea, and water) • iPod/MP3 docking station • Safe deposit box (in cabin) • Snorkelling equipment • Hair dryer • Snorkelling equipment • Wetsuit rental • Glass-bottom boat • Kayaks • Pangas (inflatable dinghies for coastal exploration)
Explorer Cabin (43) 163.2 ft2 / 15.2 m2 11.4 ft / 3.5 m
17.2 ft / 5.3 m
Facilities & Amenities
Explorer Family Cabin (2) 191.9 ft2 / 17.8 m2 7.54 ft / 2.3 m
17.2 ft / 5.3 m
Technical Specifications
Voyager Cabin (2) 127.0 ft2 / 11.8 m2
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Sky Deck
Panorama Deck
Expedition Deck
311
311
315
315
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
Ocean Deck
312
312
314
314
313
313
Horizon Deck
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
109
111
112
113
114
115
116
317
317
224
225
227
Solarium Fitness Room
Panorama Veranda Bridge Darwin Suite Explorer Cabin Panorama Bar & Lounge Restrooms Outdoor Terrace
226
119
121
120
123
122
125
124
127
126
129
128
131
130
228
Expedition Veranda Expedition Lounge & Library Restrooms Explorer Cabin Discovery Room Hot Tub
Explorer Cabin Gift Shop Reception Area Restrooms Infirmary Voyager Cabin Explorer Family Cabin
Beagle Restaurant Embarkation/Disembarkation
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36
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Discover Luxury Cruising in the Galapagos Our Yacht La Pinta is the result of the company’s decades of experience in the Galapagos: She’s a distillation of the wish lists generated by captains, expedition leaders, hotel managers, and guests over many years. She’s elegant from bow to stern, accommodating 48 guests in 24 cabins, with ample social areas, an observation deck towards the bow, wrap-around windows, a hot tub, cardio-gym, kayaks, glass-bottom boat, sun deck, and sun loungers... ideal for travellers looking for a sophisticated, upscale experience of the islands. Her exciting itineraries promise a complete immersion in this unique environment, with
expert naturalist guides enriching wildlife encounters like few others on the planet. Faultless service, delicious cuisine and stylish design complement the experience on the islands. Our staff embraces a spirit of adventure, while ensuring safety at all times. La Pinta boasts among the largest cabins of any Galapagos vessel with floor-to-ceiling oversized panoramic windows in all cabins. Its social areas have almost permanent visual contact with the islands through panoramic windows, while its outside deck areas are also wonderful havens for observation and relaxation. La Pinta is considered an ideal yacht for families travelling together, with many connecting cabins.
www.lapintagalapagoscruise.com
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39
Observation Lounge & Bar 40
Restaurant 41
Luxury Cabin
42
Natural History Library
Luxury Plus Cabin
Hot Tub
43
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Top Features Yacht La Pinta • Exclusive island visits: 84% of visitor sites are not shared with other vessels • Small groups: On average, only 11 guests per naturalist guide • Expert itineraries: Maximize the Galapagos Big15 wildlife experience • Aquatic activities: Glass-bottom boat, kayaks, snorkelling, swimming, and panga-based coastal exploration • Privacy: A top 5 guest/space ratio (30:1) amongst Galapagos passenger vessels • On-board learning: State-of-the-art technology for multimedia presentations and natural history lectures as well as a traditional library • Upscale luxurious design: Sophisticated comfort for discerning travellers
• Ample cabins: Some of the largest cabins of any Galapagos expedition vessel • Permanent visual contact: Oversized windows throughout the ship for spectacular views • Le Cordon Bleu-trained gastronomy director: Expect fine cuisine throughout your stay • Impeccable service: A guest/crew ratio of 3:2 for the journey of your life • Health care: A 24/7 Medical Officer (M.D.) on board and a well-equipped infirmary • Sustainable cruise technology: For a reduced environmental footprint
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ROUTE 5D-4N ITINERARY
ROUTE ROUTE
EEASTERN GALAPAGOS
5D-4N5D-4N ITINERARY ITINERARY THURSDAY TO MONDAY EEASTERN GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS BALTRA (END) BALTRA (START) -EEASTERN THURSDAY TO MONDAY THURSDAY TO MONDAY (START) (START) BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA 5D-4N ITINERARY NNORTHERN GALAPAGOS 5D-4N5D-4N ITINERARY ITINERARY MONDAY TO FRIDAY GALAPAGOS NNORTHERN BALTRA (END)GALAPAGOS BALTRA (START) -NNORTHERN MONDAY MONDAY TO FRIDAY TO FRIDAY (START) (START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA 7D-6N ITINERARY WESTERN GALAPAGOS W 7D-6N7D-6N ITINERARY ITINERARY FRIDAY TO THURSDAY WESTERN WESTERN GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS W BALTRA (END) BALTRA (START) -W FRIDAY FRIDAY TO THURSDAY TO THURSDAY (START) (START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA 9D-8N ITINERARY E ASTERN & N ORTHERN 9D-8N9D-8N ITINERARY ITINERARY THURSDAY TO FRIDAY ASTERN & N &ORTHERN E ASTERN N ORTHERN BALTRA (END) BALTRA (START) - E THURSDAY THURSDAY TO FRIDAY TO FRIDAY (START) (START) - BALTRA - BALTRA (END) (END) BALTRA BALTRA
F
GALAPAGOS BIG15 GALAPAGOS GALAPAGOS BIG15 BIG15 Galapagos Albatross
E
Land Iguana
Blue-footed Booby
Red-footed Booby
Flightless Cormorant
American Flamingo
Friga and
FlightlessAmeric Galapagos Galapagos Albatross Albatross Blue-footed Blue-footed Booby Booby Nazca Booby Nazca Booby Red-footed Red-footed Booby BoobyFlightless Cormorant Cormorant
N
E
E
W
N
N
E N
W
W
E NE N 46
Nazca Booby
Pinta Pinta
Marchena
Genovesa
Marchena
Darwin Bay Prince Philip’s Steps Genovesa Darwin Bay
Punta Vicente Roca
Prince Philip’s Steps
Punta Vicente Roca
Tagus Cove Punta Espinoza
Santiago
Tagus Cove
Punta Fernandina Espinoza
Urbina Bay
Fernandina
Urbina Bay
Santiago Rabida
Sullivan Bay
Bartolome
Sullivan Bay
Bartolome Chinese Hat
Rabida Eden Islet Eden Islet
North Seymour Baltra North Seymour Chinese Hat Itabaca Channel Dragon Hill Baltra South Plaza Dragon Hill Santa Cruz Itabaca Channel South Plaza Giant Tortoise Reserve Charles Santa Cruz Darwin Giant Tortoise Reserve Research
Puerto Ayora
Isabela
Puerto Ayora
Isabela
Station Charles Darwin Research Station
Punta Pitt
Santa Fe
Cerro Brujo San Punta Pitt
Cristobal Cerro Brujo San Cristobal
Santa Fe Pto. Baquerizo Moreno
Cerro Colorado Giant Tortoise Reserve
Pto. Baquerizo Moreno
Post Office Bay
Cerro Colorado Giant Tortoise Reserve
Punta Cormorant/Champion
Post Office Bay
Floreana Floreana
Punta Cormorant/Champion Punta Suarez Punta Suarez
Gardner Bay
Española
Gardner Bay
Española
American Flamingo
Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
Galapagos Hawk
Land Iguana
Marine Iguana
Santa Fe Iguana
Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
American Flamingo
Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
Galapagos Hawk
Land Iguana
Marine Iguana
Santa Fe Iguana
Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
BIG 15
E
BIG 15 11/15
EN
11/15
W N
12/15 11/15
E WN
12/15 14/15
E N
14/15
47
NEW ITINERARIES 2017
Eastern Islands
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
Northern Islands
Baltra Island
Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island
Saturday
Punta Pitt
San Cristobal Island
Cerro Brujo
San Cristobal Island
Sunday
Punta Suarez
Española Island
Gardner Bay
Española Island
Monday
Charles Darwin Research Station / Baltra Airport
Santa Cruz Island /
AM VISITS
ISLAND
PM VISITS
ISLAND
Monday
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
HIghlands
Santa Cruz Island
Tuesday
Eden Islet
Santa Cruz Island
Chinese Hat Islet
Chinese Hat Islet
Bartolome Island
Bartolome Island
Sullivan Bay
Santiago Island
Darwin Bay
Genovesa Island
Prince Phillip Steps
Genovesa Island
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Wednesday Thursday Friday
ISLAND
South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
Aquatic Activities
Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Centre San Cristobal Island
Baltra Island
Aquatic Activities
Highlight
Aquatic Activities
Highlight
Bartolome & Genovesa Islands
Baltra Airport
Friday
PM VISITS
Española & San Cristobal Islands
ISLAND
Thursday
5DAYS / 4NIGHTS
Aquatic Activities
AM VISITS
Important Notes Our expeditions include:
• Shared transfers to/from airport in Galapagos* • Airport assistance* • Accommodation • All meals • Naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish • Island excursions and activities approved by the Galapagos National Park • Snorkelling gear • Kayak • Glass-bottom boat • Bebidas no alcohólicas • Traje de Neopreno
48
Servicio de internet**
Not included:
• Air transportation to / from Galapagos • Galapagos entrance fee and migration control card • Alcoholic beverages • Tips • Personal expenses • Phone calls** * Restrictions apply ** Due to the Galapagos’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth.
NEW ITINERARIES NEW ITINERARIES 2017 2017 Aquatic ISLAND Activities
AM VISITS AM VISITS ISLAND Friday
Baltra Island
Aquatic ISLAND Activities
Aquatic Highlight Activities
North Seymour Island North Seymour Island North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
Punta Vicente Punta Vicente Saturday Fernandina IslandFernandina Island Roca Roca Isabela Island Isabela Island Punta Espinoza Punta Espinoza SundayUrbina Bay
UrbinaIsabela Bay Island Isabela Island Tagus Cove
Tagus Cove Isabela Island Isabela Island
MondayRed Beach
Red Beach Rabida Island
Cerro Dragón Santa Cruz IslandSanta Cruz Island
Rabida Island
Cerro Dragón
Tuesday
Darwin TuesdayCharles Darwin Charles Santa Cruz IslandSanta Cruz IslandHighlands Research StationResearch Station
Wednesday
Post Office Bay Post Office Bay Island Floreana Island Punta CormorantPunta Wednesday Floreana Floreana & Cormorant & Island Floreana Island Champion Islet Champion Islet
Thursday
Baltra Airport Thursday
Baltra Baltra AirportIsland
Baltra Island
AM VISITS AM VISITS ISLAND
Aquatic ISLAND Activities
Aquatic Highlight Activities
Highlight
Highlands Santa Cruz IslandSanta Cruz Island
Aquatic Activities
PM VISITS PM VISITS ISLAND
Aquatic ISLAND Activities
Thursday
Baltra Airport Thursday
Friday
Friday Santa Fe Island Santa FeSanta IslandFe Island Santa Fe Island
Saturday
Saturday Punta Pitt
Punta Pitt San Cristobal Island San Cristobal IslandCerro Brujo
San Cristobal Island Cerro BrujoSan Cristobal Island
Sunday
Punta Suarez Sunday
Punta Suarez Española Island Española Island
Española Island Española Island Gardner Bay
Charles Darwin Charles Darwin Santa Cruz IslandSanta / Cruz Island / Monday Research StationResearch Station Baltra Island Baltra Island / Baltra Airport / Baltra Airport Eden Islet Tuesday
Eden IsletEden Islet
Eden Islet
South Plaza Island South Plaza Island South Plaza Island South Plaza Island Cerro Colorado Cerro Colorado San Cristobal San Cristobal Island Tortoise BreedingTortoise Centre Breeding CentreIsland
Gardner Bay Optional Activities
OptionalSanta Cruz IslandSanta Cruz Island Activities
Sombrero Islet Chino Islet Sombrero Chino Sombrero Islet Chino IsletChino Sombrero
Bartolome IslandBartolomeBartolome Island IslandBartolome Island Wednesday
Sullivan Bay
Thursday
Darwin Bay Thursday
Darwin Bay Genovesa IslandGenovesa Island
Genovesa Prince Phillip Steps Prince Phillip Steps IslandGenovesa Island
Friday
Baltra Airport Friday
Baltra Airport Baltra Island
Santiago Island Santiago Island Sullivan Bay
Española, Bartolome & Genovesa Islands
Eastern Eastern Tuesday NorthernNorthern Islands Islands Wednesday
Baltra Island
Española, Bartolome & Genovesa Islands
9DAYS 9 / DAYS / Monday 8NIGHTS 8NIGHTS
Baltra Airport Baltra Island
Highlight
North Seymour & Fernandina Islands
WesternWesternSunday Islands Islands Monday
Baltra Baltra AirportIsland
PM VISITS PM VISITS ISLAND
North Seymour & Fernandina Islands
7DAYS 7 / DAYS / Saturday 6NIGHTS 6NIGHTS
Friday Baltra Airport
Aquatic Activities
Baltra Island
These itineraries areThese for reference itinerariesonly. areOur for reference route and only. programmes Our routemay andvary programmes accordingmay to National vary according Park policies to National and regulations, Park policiesweather and regulations, conditions,weather seasonalconditions, changes, safety seasonal andchanges, safety and operational reasonsoperational and the wildlife reasons we encounter. and the wildlife we encounter. Aquatic activities:Aquatic activities: Snorkelling
Snorkelling Panga Ride
Panga Kayaking Ride
Glass-bottom Kayaking boat Glass-bottom Beachboat
Swimming Beach
Swimming
49
Cabin Distribution Luxury Cabin
Luxury Cabin Plus
Total Cabins
Interconnecting Cabins
Cabin Types 10.26ft / 3.13m
Sun Deck Cabin Deck Main Deck
4
24
8
20
4
24
8
17.22ft / 5.25m
Total
20
Capacity: 48 guests/24 cabins
Technical Specifications
Fire Detector Life Jackets Life Rafts Landing Craft Owner Decks Crew Naturalist Guides Guest-Crew Ratio Medical Officer Safety Certifications
50
2007 1982 1,438.25 tonnes 30 Expedition Yacht 48 guests / 24 cabins 63.87 metres (209 feet) 12.50 metres (41 feet) 10 knots 110-220V/60Hz 2 Cummins KTA 38 M2 1200HP each 2 Furuno radars, 2 video sounders, ADC Gyro compass radars, GPS, motion sensor DVR, Havant Hantas UK gyrocompass, magnetic compass Automatic with control from the bridge In each cabin Six 25-person and Two 50-person 4 inflatable boats ETICA (Metropolitan Touring) 3 27 (including Officers) 4 (including Expedition Leader) 3:2 Permanently on board SOLAS, STCW, MARPOL, ISM CODE 12
• Bar lounge • Gift shop • Hot tub • Natural history library • Fitness room • Coffee station (coffee, tea and water 24 hours a day) • Internet access satellite signal Wi-Fi available in social areas • Central air-conditioning with individual controls in each cabin • Multi-channel sound system for closed-circuit music and connection for personal iPods, mp3, mp4. • Safe deposit box-in-room • Hair dryer • Glass-bottom boat • Sea kayaks • Wet suits • Snorkeling equipment
Luxury Cabin (20) 2 16.43 m/ 176.85 sq. ft.2
16.07ft / 4.90m
15.41ft / 4.70m
Refurbishment Construction Gross Tonnage Passenger Space Ratio Type of Vessel Capacity Length Beam Speed Electricity Engines Navigation Equipment
Facilities & Amenities
Luxury Cabin Plus (4) 2
2
23 m/ 247.57 sq. ft.
Sun Deck
Observation Decks Outside Sky Bar Restrooms Open Decks Natural History Library Fitness Room Hot Tub Observation Lounge & Bar
Cabin Deck
Luxury Cabins Luxury Cabins Plus
Main Deck
Reception Area Gift Shop Disembarkation Gangway Infirmary Dining Room Restrooms Disembarkation / Embarkation Gangway
51
52
53
54
Experience the Essence of the Galapagos The Galapagos Islands are special and you want a special yacht in which to explore this ‘living laboratory of evolution’. Our cosy 40guest, 20-cabin Yacht Isabela II promises an intimate experience of this unique world. Join Yacht Isabela II’s passionate, dedicated and expert naturalist guides on enriching wildlife encounters, whether amid the islands’ haunting volcanic landscapes or beneath the waves of its marine reserve. The islands’ marine life can be appreciated with a snorkel
and mask, while paddling a kayak or aboard our glass-bottom boat. On board, guests find delicious cuisine, faultless service and excellent facilities, including a hot tub, fitness room, bar and outside deck for al fresco meals, drinks and sunbathing. Her crew has remained virtually unchanged for years, their dedication, attention to detail and passion for service touching every one of her guests.
www.isabelagalapagoscruise.com
55
Natural History Library 56
Sun deck 57
Gift shop
58
Hot tub
Bar salon
Al fresco dining
59
Owner’s Cabin
60
Classic Family Cabin
Standard Cabin
Reception
61
62
Top Features Yacht Isabela II
Experience the essence of the Galapagos
· Intimate Galapagos experience: Only 20 cabins and a welldefined expedition culture • Privacy: A top 10 guest-space ratio (26:1) amongst Galapagos vessels • Best itinerary for sensitive guests: Our 5-day Central Islands itinerary concentrates on sailing within the geographic centre of the archipelago, thus avoiding extended open waters motoring without sacrificing wildlife coverage • Expert itineraries: Designed to allow guests to experience as many of the Galapagos Big15 animal species as possible • Small groups: No more than 14 guests per naturalist guide on island outings
• Aquatic activities: Glass-bottom boat, kayaks, snorkelling, swimming, and panga-based coastal exploration • On-board learning: State-of-the-art technology for multimedia presentations and natural history lectures, as well as a well-stocked library • Fine dining: Gourmet meals designed by a Le Cordon Bleu-trained gastronomy director • Top service: A guest/crew ratio of 3:2 with an experienced, tightly-honed crew • Health care: A 24/7 Medical Officer (M.D.) on board and a wellequipped infirmary • Soothing interior design: Upgraded in 2016 to create a tranquil, stylish and sophisticated ambience • Sustainable cruise technology: For a low-environmental footprint
63
5D-4N ITINERARY
CCENTRAL GALAPAGOS
MONDAY TO FRIDAY BALTRA (START) - BALTRA (END)
ROUTE
5D-4N ITINERARY SSOUTHERN GALAPAGOS FRIDAY TO TUESDAY BALTRA (START) - SAN CRISTOBAL (END) ROUTE 7D-6N ITINERARY
NNORTHERN GALAPAGOS
TUESDAY TO MONDAY SAN CRISTÓBAL (START) - BALTRA (END) ROUTE
9D-8N ITINERARY
CCENTRAL AND SSOUTHERN
GALAPAGOS MONDAY TO TUESDAY BALTRA (START) - SAN CRISTÓBAL (END)
GALAPAGOS BIG15
Galapagos Albatross
C S N
C S
Galapagos Sea Lion 64
Blue-footed Booby
Nazca Booby
Red-footed Booby
Flightless Cormorant
American Flamingo
F
Pinta
Marchena Genovesa Darwin Bay
Prince Philip’s Steps
Punta Vicente Roca
Buccaneer Cove
Tagus Cove
Puerto Egas Sullivan Bay
Punta Espinoza
Santiago
Fernandina
Urbina Bay
Bartolome North Seymour
Rabida
Baltra Itabaca Channel
South Plaza
Las Bachas
Dragon Hill
Giant Tortoise Reserve
Santa Cruz
Puerto Ayora
Charles Darwin Research Station
Punta Pitt
Santa Fe
Cerro Brujo
San Cristobal
Isabela Pto. Baquerizo Moreno Post Office Bay
Floreana
Cerro Colorado Giant Tortoise Reserve
Punta Cormorant/Champion
Punta Suarez
Gardner Bay
EspaĂąola
Flightless Cormorant
American Flamingo
Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
Galapagos Hawk
Land Iguana
Marine Iguana
Santa Fe Iguana
Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
BIG 15
C
12/15
S
11/15
N
13/15
C S
14/15
65
Itineraries
I AM VISITS
Aquatic Activities
Prince Philip Steps
Genovesa Island
Darwin Bay
Genovesa Island
Thursday
Buccaneer Cove
Santiago Island
Puerto Egas
Santiago Island
Friday
Punta Espinoza
Fernandina Island
Tagus Cove
Isabela Island
Saturday
Urbina Bay
Isabela Island
Punta Vicente Roca
Isabela Island
Sunday
Red Beach
Rabida Island
Dragon Hill
Santa Cruz Island
Monday
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Monday
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
Charles Darwin Research Station
Santa Cruz Island
Highlight
Tuesday
Santa Fe Island
Santa Fe Island
South Plaza Island
South Plaza Island
Las Bachas
Santa Cruz Island
Sullivan Bay
Santiago Island
Wednesday
North Seymour Island North Seymour Island
Thursday Friday
Bartolome Island
Bartolome Island
Baltra Airport
Baltra Island
San Cristobal Island
Important notes Not included:
Our itineraries include:
• • • • •
66
Highlight
North Seymour & Bartolome Islands
Central Islands
Cerro Colorado Tortoise Breeding Centre
ISLAND
Accommodation All meals Bilingual naturalist guides Conferences and lectures Visit to the islands mentioned in the itinerary
• Transportation to / from the airport in Gal ápagos • Snorkelling equipment • Internet and Wifi* * Due to the Galapagos remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth.
• Air ticket to/from Galapagos, subject to change • Galapagos National Park entrance fee and Immigration control card, subject to change • Beverages and tips • Wetsuit hire • Phone calls • Items considered as personal expenses
Genovesa & Fernandina Islands
5DAYS/ 4NIGHTS
PM VISITS
San Cristobal Island
Wednesday
Northern Islands
Aquatic Activities
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport
Tuesday
7DAYS / 6NIGHTS
ISLAND
Itineraries Itineraries AM VISITS AM VISITS ISLAND ISLAND
Southern Southern Islands Islands
Saturday Saturday SundaySunday
Española Española Island Island
Española Island Island Gardner Gardner Bay Bay Española
Punta Punta SuarezSuarez
Tuesday Tuesday
PuertoPuerto Baquerizo Baquerizo San Cristobal San Cristobal Island Island Moreno Moreno AirportAirport
Baltra Baltra AirportAirport
Baltra Baltra Island Island
Charles Charles DarwinDarwin Santa Santa Cruz Island Cruz Island Research Research StationStation
Las Bachas Las Bachas
Santa Santa Cruz Island Cruz Island
Thursday Thursday
Sullivan Sullivan Bay Bay
Santiago Santiago Island Island
FridayFriday
Bartolome Island Island Bartolome Bartolome Island Island Bartolome Baltra Baltra AirportAirport
Baltra Baltra Island Island
Saturday Saturday
Post Office Post Office Bay Bay Floreana Floreana Island Island
SundaySunday
Punta Punta SuarezSuarez Española Española Island Island
Monday Monday
Punta Punta Pitt Pitt San Cristobal San Cristobal Island Island
Tuesday Tuesday
PuertoPuerto Baquerizo Baquerizo San Cristobal San Cristobal Island Island Moreno Moreno AirportAirport
Charles Charles DarwinDarwin Santa Santa Cruz Island Cruz Island Research Research StationStation Punta Punta Cormorant Cormorant Floreana Floreana Island Island & Champion & Champion Islet Islet Gardner Gardner Bay Bay
Española Española Island Island
San Cristobal Island Island Cerro Cerro Brujo Brujo San Cristobal
North Seymour &
North North Seymour Seymour Island Island Seymour Seymour Island Island Wednesday Wednesday North North
Floreana &
South South Plaza Island Plaza IslandSouth South Plaza Island Plaza Island
Highlight Highlight
Bartolome Islands North Seymour & Bartolome Islands
Santa Santa Fe Island Fe Island Santa Santa Fe Island Fe Island
San Cristobal Island Island Cerro Cerro Brujo Brujo San Cristobal
Highlight Highlight
Española Islands Floreana & Española Islands
Central Central andand Southern Southern Islands Islands
Punta Punta Cormorant Cormorant Floreana Floreana Island Island & Champion & Champion Islet Islet
San Cristobal Island Island Punta Punta Pitt Pitt San Cristobal
Thuesday Thuesday
Charles Charles DarwinDarwinSanta Santa Cruz Island Cruz Island Research Research StationStation
Post Office Post Office Bay Bay Floreana Floreana Island Island
Monday Monday
Monday Monday
9DAYS 9DAYS / / 8NIGHTS 8NIGHTS
Baltra Baltra Island Island
AquaticAquatic Activities Activities
These itineraries These itineraries are for reference are for reference only. Ouronly. routeOur androute programmes and programmes may varymay according vary according to National to National Park policies Park policies and regulations, and regulations, weatherweather conditions, conditions, seasonalseasonal changeschanges safety &safety operational & operational reasonsreasons and the and wildlife thewe wildlife encounter. we encounter. AquaticAquatic activities: activities:
Floreana &
5DAYS 5DAYS / / 4NIGHTS 4NIGHTS
Baltra Baltra AirportAirport
PM VISITS PM VISITS ISLAND ISLAND
Española Islands Floreana & Española Islands
FridayFriday
AquaticAquatic Activities Activities
Snorkelling Snorkelling Panga Ride Panga Ride KayakingKayaking Glass-bottom Glass-bottom boat boat Beach BeachSwimming Swimming
67
Cabin Distribution Classic Family Cabin
16
2
16
Total
2
Standard Owner’s Cabin Cabin
2 2
Total Cabins
1
20 1
1
21
10.36 ft / 3.16 m
13.48 ft / 4.11 m
Cabin Deck Main Deck
Classic Cabin
Cabin Types
Classic Cabin (16) 2 2 139.82 sq ft / 12.99 m 10.36 ft / 3.16 m
Fire Detector
2016 • Dining room 1979 • Bar lounge 1,025 tonnes • Al fresco dining 25.6 • Gift shop Expedition Yacht • Fitness room 40 guests / 21 cabins • Hot tub 55.94 metres (184 feet) • 24/7 Coffee station (coffee, tea, and water) 11.58 metres (38 feet) • Computer station 9.0 knots • E-mail, radio and telephone communications 110-220V/60Hz • Wi-Fi available in social areas 2 Cummins KTA 38-M1, 1000 HP each • PA system Satellite, gyrocompass, automatic pilot • Air conditioned throughout Radar, ARPA, GPS (2) • Hair dryer and safe deposit box in each cabin Smoke detector and sprinkler systems • Wet suits in all areas • Snorkelling equipment In each cabin • Sea kayaks 8 (25-person capacity each) • Glass-bottom boat 3 Inflatable boats ETICA (METROPOLITAN TOURING) 3 26 3 (including Expedition Leader) 3:2 Permanently on board ABS, STCW, SOLAS 74, ISM, ISPS, MARPOL, IAMSAR
Classic Family Cabin (2) 2 2 139.82 sq ft / 12.99 m 13.32 ft / 4.06 m
Standard Cabin (2) 2 2 124.32 sq ft / 11.55 m 14.63 ft / 4.46 m
15.58 ft / 4.75 m
Life Jackets Life Rafts Landing Craft Owner Decks Crew Naturalist Guides Guest-Crew Ratio Medical Officer Safety Certifications
Facilities & Amenities
6.62 ft / 2.02 m
Refurbishment Construction Gross Tonnage Passenger Space Ratio Type of Vessel Capacity Length Beam Speed Electricity Engines Navigation Equipment
13.48 ft / 4.11 m
Technical Specifications
Owner’s Cabin (1) 2 2 178.14 sq ft / 16.55 m
68
Boat Deck
Cabin Deck
02
01
04
03
06
05
08
07
10
09
12
11
Main Deck
14
Fitness Room Hot tub Al fresco bar
16
17
18
19
20
21
Classic Cabin (16) Classic Family Cabin (2) Standard Cabin (1)
Dining Room Library/Computer Station Gift Shop Owner’s Cabin Infirmary Disembarkation Gangway Restrooms Bar salon 69
70
71
72
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel: Your Way An enriching, relaxing, rejuvenating land and sea experience for everyone The Finch Bay Eco Hotel is situated in the heart of the Galapagos archipelago, a set of volcanic isles stranded in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador in South America… famed for its amazing, fearless wildlife and extraordinary travel experiences. The tranquil bay in front of the hotel is lapped by waves amid the greens and browns of mangroves, its cream-coral sand leading up to the hotel’s gardens. Darwin’s famous finches flit from bush to tree to table, while ducks visit the swimming pool, and herons pace by the sun-loungers. Pergolas provide shade for sofas, while its tables and sun-shades invite you to enjoy the perfect al fresco meal. The hotel offers six Finch Bay Suites, each with
a direct ocean view, and 21 Finch Bay Rooms. Four of the suites have a communicating door – ideal for family and friends travelling together. Each room features a balcony or porch with hammocks, and plush beds with fine linens that make our guests feel even more in tune with the hotel’s extraordinary location and sets the stage for a regenerative stay. And if it’s comfort and service you are looking for, our recently renovated hotel – offering beach front living, a swimming pool, and world-class gourmet food offerings, under the guidance of a Le Cordon Bleu-trained gastronomy director – you’ve found the right place. It has been ranked the #1 hotel in Galapagos by Trip Advisor and is a proud new member of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.
www.finchbayhotel.com 73
Finch Bay Suite
74
Lounge
Finch Bay Room
Exterior Hall
75
Surfing
76
Daily Excursions
Mountain Biking
Wildlife Observation
Kayaking
Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel
Let Us Be Your Central Headquarters for Galapagos Discovery
There are so many ways to experience Galapagos’ fearless wildlife and extraordinary otherworldly landscapes. Cruise. Land and sea. Do-it-yourself itineraries. At the Finch Bay Eco Hotel, you can enjoy the best of all of these choices. Centrally located on Santa Cruz Island, our guests come and go as they please, before or after cruising, in the middle of an island hopping itinerary, or as an exclusive home-base for land and marine exploration. Easy to get to, and yet secluded, it places the world-famous Galapagos Marine Reserve and Galapagos National Park literally right at the feet of our guests. We want you to make the most of your visit, a nd to do so, we offer you basic, intermediate and full programmes that allow you to live Galapagos your way. Use the hotel as a bed and breakfast if you prefer to explore on your own. Or take full advantage of our expertise and complement your hotel stay with carefully curated activities designed to show you 80% of the islands’ quintessential Galapagos Big15 species. Hike. Bike. Kayak. Snorkel. Scuba dive. Walk on the beach. Or embark on a day cruise and have fun testing out your macro lens. There are different options available each day, all designed by an experienced expedition leader and accompanied by knowledgeable naturalist guides.
2016
TRAVELERS
CHOICE 2 0 15 World's Leading Green Hotel
77
78
Top Features Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel: • The only National Geographic Unique Lodges of the WorldTM property in Galapagos! • Wise choices, smart travel: Whether land and sea, cruise- based, island hopping, or do it-yourself, we are your perfect Galapagos headquaters. • Best location: Puerto Ayora’s sole beachfront property, situated on the central island of Santa Cruz, easy to get to and close to everything. • Flexible timing: Come when you want and stay as long as you wish. • Activities as you like them: Hiking, biking, kayaking, snorkelling, SCUBA diving, surfing, day cruise, and beach outing options available for you every day. • Skilled expedition leaders: The best itineraries and your expert naturalist guides make for a complete and nurturing understanding of the islands.
• 50+ years of experience: Bring your loved ones and know they are in good hands with a fully-compliant, safety-conscious operation. • Luxurious relaxation: Comfortable, well-appointed rooms, an extraordinary natural setting, the pool and beach at your doorstep and an accommodating staff that ensures you feel papered. • Top-ranked in TripAdvisor: World-class, highly personalized service makes us #1 of 41 hotels in Galapagos according to Trip Advisor. • Amazing culinary experience: Our Le Cordon Bleu-educated gastronomy director and excellent restaurant staff elevate local and international dishes to another level. • Award-winning green technology: The hotel is equipped with both its own water purification and waste-water treatment plants, as well as solar panels for water heating, to reduce our environmental footprint.
79
Fact Sheet
Services and facilities
* 4 of the Finch Bay suites are interconnected 80
Finch Bay Suite (6)
Finch Bay Room (21) 16.4 ft. / 5.05 m.
26.25 ft. / 8 m.
m.
16.4 ft /5.05 13.12 ft. / m4.00 m
20,2 m2 / 215.17 sq. ft.
OceanView Terraces
13.12 ft. / 4.00 m.
Balcony
16.4 ft. / 5.05 m.
26.25 ft. / 8 m.
Balcony
13.12 ft. / 4.00 m.
13.12 ft /4.00 m
26.25 ft. / 8 m.
4 m ft. / 4.00 m. 13.12 ft.13.12 / 4.00 m.ft. / 13.12
16.56 ft. / 5.05 m.
• 27 rooms - 54 guests 17 Finch Bay Rooms: 20.2 m2, two twin size beds 4 Finch Bay Rooms: 20.2 m2, king size bed 3 Finch Bay Suites:* 32 m2, king size bed 3 Finch Bay Suites:* 32 m2, two full size beds • Modern design incorporating Galapagos’ natural elements • Each room has wooden blinds, a black-out curtain, tile floors, air-conditioning, a private bathroom with hot water, hair dryer, biodegradable soap, shampoo dispensers and telephone. • All suites and rooms have balconies. • All rooms are non-smoking • Restaurant featuring signature cuisine that blends local specialty dishes and flavours with Le Cordon Bleu-inspired culinary technique. It serves a generous buffet breakfast and à-la-carte menus for lunch and dinner. Vegetarian and special dietary requirements can be accommodated. • Communications: telephone, fax, e-mail, low-bandwidth internet access via Wi-Fi and 3 computers. • On-site water potabilization and waste water treatment plants • Ice machine • Private outdoor pool • Bar and lounge • Multipurpose room lbrary • Snorkelling equipment • Sea kayaks (extra cost) • Laundry service (extra cost) • Massage service (extra cost)
Room 2 20.20 m 2m 215.17 sq 20 217.43 sq. ft
ft
Let us be your Central Headquarters for your Galapagos Adventure Balcony
Room 32 m 2 / 344 sq ft
Balcony
20,2 m2 /Reserve 32 Eco m2 Hotel /344issq. ft. 215.17starts sq.within ft. yards of the hotel. The Finch Bay so centrally located that the Galapagos Marine The Galapagos National Park (GNP), that comprises 97% of the land surface of the Archipelago is right next door. It’s so easy to get here. We are close to main transportation routes and a key stopping/starting point for most day cruises and tour vessels.
Santa Cruz Island – Activities Map
N
Cousins Bartolome Island
Santiago Island
W S
Chinese Hat Beagle Rocks Rabida Island
Daphne Minor
Daphne Major
Guy Fawkes
North Seymour Island Ecuador
North Mosquera
Las Bachas
0º 0´ 00´´
Galapagos Islands
Baltra Island Itabaca Channel
South America
Punta Carrion Gordon
Santa Cruz Island Pinzon Island
E
Galapagos Archipelago Pinta
South Plaza
Twin craters Puntudo Santa Rosa
Genovesa
Marchena
0º 0´ 00´´
Santiago
Cerro Mesa
Fernandina
Cascajo
Santa Cruz San Cristobal
Isabela
Santa Fe
Bellavista
Tortoise reserve
Isabela Island
Floreana
Española
El Garrapatero beach
Las Grietas Tortuga Bay
Academy Bay
Pacific Ocean Santa Fe Island
Champion Islet
Floreana Island Tortuga Bay
Puerto Villamil
RELAXING ACTIVITIES
Relaxation at the Pool Beach at your Doorstep Short Walks Massages Stargazing Balcony and Hammock Strolls in Puerto Ayora Fine Dining
EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES Island Yacht Exploration Snorkelling Giant Tortoises in the Highlands of Santa Cruz Wildlife Observation Charles Darwin Research Station Beach Tortuga Bay Las Grietas El Garrapatero Beach
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES SCUBA Diving Kayaking Surfing Hiking Biking
GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK ISLAND HOPPING Air transportation Sea transportation
BIG 15 Santa Fe Iguana
Marine Iguana
Galapagos Hawk
Blue-Footed Booby
Land Iguana
Nazca Booby
Galapagos Sea Lion American Flamingo Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Fur Seal
“The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well
deserves attention� Charles Darwin, The Voyage of The Beagle.
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Galapagos Albatross Blue-Footed Booby Nazca Booby Red-Footed Booby Flightless Cormorant American Flamingo Frigatebirds: Great and Magnificent
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Galapagos Hawk Land Iguana Marine Iguana Santa Fe Land Iguana Galapagos Penguin Galapagos Sea Lion Galapagos Fur Seal Galapagos Giant Tortoise
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It's quite simple: The more iconic Galapagos Big15 animal species you see on the Galapagos Islands, the more rewarding and memorable your experience will be!
0º00’00’’
Española
Present
1. Galapagos Albatross Island Exclusive Species: Found only on Española Island. The Galapagos or waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) is the only tropical albatross, and the largest bird in the Galapagos, with a wingspan of up to 250 cm (8.2 ft). Albatrosses have a spectacular mating ritual of bill fencing and beak circling and clacking. They can be seen only between April and December.
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Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
Yacht Isabela II 8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
Likely to be Seen
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Pinta
Marchena
Bartolomé
Santiago Fernandina
0º00’00’’
North Seymour
Rábida
Pinzón
South Plaza
Santa Cruz
Isabela San Cristóbal
Santa Fe
Floreana
Española
Likely to be Seen
Present
2. Blue-footed Booby Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Central
8D/7N Western
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Southern
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Mon-Fri
5D/4N Northern
4D/3N Fri-Mon
Thanks to their expressive mating dance, blue-footed boobies (Sula nebouxii) are among visitors' favourite animals. During the dance, males display their amazing blue feet in up-and-down movements to attract females. The more turquoise they are, the more successful they will be with the ladies. Their biggest breeding colonies are on Española and North Seymour, but foraging birds are seen on all islands.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Pinta
Genovesa
Marchena
0º00’00’’
Santiago North Seymour
Fernandina
Santa Cruz South Plaza Isabela San Cristóbal
Floreana
Likely to be Seen
Present
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
3.
Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
Española
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
Nazca Booby
The Nazca booby (Sula granti) is easily distinguishable from the other Galapagos booby species thanks to its snow-white plumage, offset with black wing and tail feathers and feet. The main colonies are in Genovesa, Española, and Floreana. Non-breeding birds are seen on cliffs along most islands.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
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Genovesa
0º00’00’’
San Cristóbal
Floreana
Likely to be Seen
Present
4.
Red-footed Booby
Limited Distribution Species. The booby with the largest population, the red-footed booby (Sula sula) is, ironically, the most rarely seen Galapagos booby because it feeds on the outskirts of the archipelago's waters, leading the birds to nest on outlying isles like Genovesa and San Cristobal, although they may be seen elsewhere. Its beak is light blue, turning to pink around the mouth, and its feet are characteristically red, while its plumage varies from white to brown.
Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
0º00’00’’
Fernandina
Isabela
Present
5.
Flightless Cormorant
Limited Distribution Species: Found only on Fernandina and the west coast of Isabela. The flightless or Galapagos cormorant (Phalacrocorax harrisi) is the world’s biggest and heaviest cormorant. It is also the only one that has lost its ability to fly. This has required particular adaptations: Uniquely, Galapagos cormorants have solid bones and no oil at all to spread along feathers that now look more like fur.
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Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
Yacht Isabela II 8D/7N Western
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
6D/5N Western
Likely to be Seen
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package 5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
0º00’00’’
Santiago
Santa Cruz Isabela San Cristóbal
Floreana
Likely to be Seen
Present
6. Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Central
8D/7N Western
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Southern
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Mon-Fri
5D/4N Northern
4D/3N Fri-Mon
American Flamingo
A very small population of American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) resides permanently in Galapagos, spread among a few islands that show suitable conditions, specifically offering their main food: brine shrimp. Flamingos have spectacular breeding rituals, and extraordinary adaptations that allow them to survive in extreme harsh conditions. They can stand up to 145 cm (57 in) tall.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Pinta
Genovesa
Marchena
Santiago Fernandina
0º00’00’’
Bartolomé North Seymour
Rábida
South Plaza Pinzón
Santa Cruz
Isabela San Cristóbal
Santa Fe
Floreana
Present
Española
Likely to be Seen
7. Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
Frigatebirds (Great and Magnificent)
Unusually, two different species of frigatebirds coexist practically side-by-side in the Galapagos: the great (Fregata minor), and the magnificent (Fregata magnificens), the largest species of frigatebird. These marine birds exceed in flying skills, allowing them to steal food from other species.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
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Pinta
Marchena
0º00’00’’
Bartolomé Santiago
Fernandina
Rábida
Isabela Santa Fe
Española
Likely to be Seen
Present
8.
Galapagos Hawk
The Galapagos hawk (Buteo galapagoensis) is the largest endemic bird of prey and sits at the top of the terrestrial food chain. It can be seen on several islands, including Santa Fe, Española, Santiago, and Isabela, but it is absent in all areas with human population and on Genovesa, probably because of an absence of its key food: lava lizards.
Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
0º00’00’’
Fernandina
North Seymour
South Plaza Santa Cruz Isabela
Likely to be Seen
Present
9.
Land Iguana
Land iguanas play an important role as endemic resident herbivores as their largely vegetarian feeding habits are responsible for the dispersal of several plants. The Galapagos land iguana (Conolophus subcristatus) lives on several islands, making it the most widely distributed land iguana of the three terrestrial species of the Galapagos.
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
Yacht Isabela II 8D/7N Western
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
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5D/4N Northern
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package 5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Pinta
Marchena
Genovesa
0º00’00’’
Bartolomé Santiago Fernandina
North Seymour
Rábida
Pinzón
South Plaza Santa Cruz
Isabela San Cristóbal
Santa Fe
Floreana
Present
Española
Likely to be Seen
10. Marine Iguana Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
The marine iguana (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) is one of the most amazing Galapagos species. For starters, marine iguanas are found on all Galapagos Islands, but nowhere else. They arrived as terrestrial iguanas, later evolving into marine animals and then spreading throughout the archipelago. They spend most of their life near the waterline thermo-regulating, and they feed at low tide.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
0º00’00’’
Santa Fe
Likely to be Seen
Present
11. Santa Fe Land Iguana Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
Island Exclusive Species: Occurs only on Santa Fe Island. The Santa Fe land iguana (Conolophus pallidus), with smaller dorsal spines than other land iguanas and a tapered snout, lives only on little Santa Fe. Its paler colour allows it to blend in with its surroundings, making it somewhat more difficult to observe than the other land iguanas.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
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0º00’00’’
Bartolomé
Santiago Fernandina
Chinese Hat
South Plaza
Santa Cruz Isabela
Floreana
Likely to be Seen
Present
12. Galapagos Penguin Galapagos penguins (Spheniscus mendiculus) are in several ways unique among the world’s penguin species. They are the only ones that live on the equator, moult up to twice a year, and have no fixed breeding season. They are one of the smallest penguins, and the only ones with a permanent population in both hemispheres.
Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Central
8D/7N Western
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Southern
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Mon-Fri
5D/4N Northern
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Pinta
Genovesa
Marchena
Santiago Fernandina
Bartolomé
Rábida
Pinzón
0º00’00’’
North Seymour Baltra South Plaza Santa Cruz
Isabela San Cristóbal
Santa Fe
Floreana
Likely to be Seen
Present
13. Galapagos Sea Lion Genetic research shows that the Galapagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeckii) is a separate species from its ancestor, the California sea lion. In length, it is also much smaller, ranging from 150 to 250 cm (59 to 98 in). Males are signiificantly larger than females, weighing as much as 200 kg (440 lb) while females show an average weight of 75 kg (165 lb).
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
Yacht Isabela II 8D/7N Western
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
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5D/4N Northern
6D/5N Western
Española
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package 5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
8D/7N Mon-Mon
Genovesa
Marchena
0º00’00’’
Santiago
Fernandina
Rábida
North Seymour South Plaza
Isabela
Likely to be Seen
Present
14. Galapagos Fur Seal Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
The Galapagos fur seal (Arctocephalus galapagoensis) is the smallest of all seals, with females weighing just around 30 kg (66 lb) and males around 80 kg (176 lb). Originally from the South Pacific, their breeding and foraging strategies differ radically from those of their northern cousins. They hold the record as the world´s smallest pinniped.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
0º00’00’’
Santiago
Pinzón
Santa Cruz
Isabela San Cristóbal
Española
Likely to be Seen
Present
15. Galapagos Giant Tortoise Yacht Isabela II
Yacht La Pinta 4D/3N Eastern
5D/4N Northern
8D/7N Western
6D/5N Western
5D/4N Southern
7D/6N Northern
Finch Bay Package
Santa Cruz II 5D/4N Eastern
5D/4N Central
5D/4N Northern
5D/4N Mon-Fri
4D/3N Fri-Mon
The Galapagos giant tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra) is the largest living tortoise species. Weighing up to 250 kg (550 lb), they play an important biological role as their habitats' top grazer. In the wild, these gentle giants slowly barrel their way through the plant cover. The shape of their carapaces varies from island to island.
8D/7N Mon-Mon
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Ecuador Embark with us on a journey of discovery through Ecuador, a country with a privileged location straddling latitude 0° on the northwest coast of South America whose compact size belies the outrageous number of species residing on its lands: it is one of the world’s top 17 mega-diverse countries according to the The World Conservation Monitoring Centre (part of the United Nations Environment Programme). Follow the path of the sun on its daily passage across the Equator (after which the country is named) and its four worlds, each distinct, each inspiring in its own right. As the sun rises over the humid eastern jungles of the Amazon, explore the rainforest beneath gigantic trees, paddle dugout canoes up creeks and rivers, and meet the people of these forests,
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learning about their myths and rituals, ancient wisdom and everyday lives. When the sun reaches its zenith, one can understand why it was sacred to the earliest inhabitants of the Andean highlands. It illuminates every inch of the country: the snow-capped volcanoes and the green valleys, the cloudshrouded forests and the gleaming facades of the churches of Quito, whose imposing colonial structures bear witness to the heritage left by the Spanish and to the native skill and artistry that created the paintings and sculptures of the Quito School of Art. The capital city was the first to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today boasts the largest and least-altered historic centre in the Americas. The sun wends its way west, warming the magnificent tropical beaches of the country’s little explored Pacific Coast, before it sets over the fabled Galapagos Islands, a harsh, rugged land where species must adapt or perish: this is the archipelago that inspired Charles Darwin in 1835 and has continued to amaze every visitor since.
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Ecuador’s capital, Quito, makes a fascinating start to any voyage through Ecuador. Its Old Town is the largest and best-restored in the Americas, cupped between verdant mountains and volcanoes. Its historic centre is a treasure trove of art and culture but also of life, of authenticity, where you chance upon traditions long forgotten or skills newly-appreciated. It’s a city to explore with time, sure to awaken any traveller’s curiosity. The city has seen its history played out in its plazas, most notably at San Francisco, the largest colonial religious centre in South America and an important regional marketplace. The Gangotena family acquired its mansion on the corner of the plaza in the 18th century. In 1914, after a fire destroyed the enitre house, they rebuilt it as the European-style Gangotena Palace, one of the
most stylish residences in the city. In 2012, the newly restored Casa Gangotena boutique hotel, featuring 31 exquisitely decorated rooms and spacious, elegant public areas, reopened its doors to the public, still with the intimacy of an exclusive family home, but with all the facilites and services today’s sophisticated world-travellers expects. Eclectically appointed, the hotel invites its guests to relax, whether in the dining room, glassed-in patio, garden redolent with the perfume of native flowers, wood-panelled library, or else atop its panoramic third-floor terrace. And when you are ready to explore, the best of Quito’s wonders are right at your doorstep: there is so much to see that you will want to come back again.
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Top Features Casa Gangotena: • Prime location: In iconic Plaza San Francisco, the heart of Quito’s historic “Old Town”. • Curated activities: Learn about local traditions, architecture and culture with our people themselves. • Design that preserves and protects: Rebuilt in the 1920’s as an oasis of genteel living, and lovingly remodelled in 2014 with a neoclassical architectural style and modern comforts that remind us of luxury living in an elegant colonial home. • Personalized and intimate service: A staff/room ratio of 2.77:1 guarantees that guests receive special indulgences as part of their stay. • Les Clefs d’Or Concierge: The golden keys represent our
concierge’s commitment to do everything humanly, legally and morally possible to make your trip extra special. • Fine dining: Savour a gourmet sampling of Ecuadorian cuisine, based on the freshest local ingredients, an extensive wine selection and impeccable service. • One of Trip Advisor’s “25 Best Hotels in the World” for the Last 3 Years: Casa Gangotena is one of only four hotels repeatedly chosen for this select list by Trip Advisor’s readers. • Luxury travel headquarters: The perfect base for travel around the city or the country. • International affiliations: American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, Virtuoso, Signature • Hotels & Resorts, Mr. and Mrs. Smith
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Luxury Plus Room
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Bar Lounge
Terrace View
Suites & Rooms
Room Features
31 Rooms: 20 Luxury Rooms, all averaging 37 m2 King size bed 2 connecting Luxury Rooms can convert onto 1 Suite
• 32” flat-screen TV • Cable TV with over 90 national and international channels • International telephone IDD • Wi-Fi • Air conditioning and heating • In-room safety deposit box • All bathrooms have showers and bathtubs • Luxury bathroom amenities • Hairdryers
1 Luxury Plus Room: 30 m2 King-size bed Mansion’s original fresco mural Courtyard view 8 Plaza View Rooms, all averaging 34 m2 All facing San Francisco Plaza 1 Balcony Junior Suite: 30 m2 King-size-bed Open balcony Courtyard & Mountain views
1 Junior Suite: 48 m2 King-size bed Mansion’s original fresco mural Courtyard view. Oversized room
Services & Facilities • Dining Room • Bar • Terrace overlooking San Francisco Square exclusively for resident guests • 24-hour Room Service • 24-hour reception and concierge • Laundry Service • Patio and outdoor garden • Reading/briefings room • Internet Lounge • Wi-Fi throughout the entire hotel • Emergency electricity generator • Fire prevention and precaution systems • Non-smoking hotel • Daily activities exclusively designed for guests
www.metropolitan-touring.com/CasaGangotena
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Mashpi Lodge shows you the other side of world-renowned Quito. A step away from the bustling city proper, but still within its Metropolitan District, lies another world, one of quiet walks through cloud- and rainforest paths dense with vegetation and still undiscovered fauna, a hot spot of biodiversity. Quito, a city of two hemispheres: culture and nature. Explore them both.
its numerous trails, bathing in its forest pools, or gliding softly through the treetops. Activities include visiting the Life Centre with its butterflies and plants, climbing the eight-story observation tower, riding on the innovative sky bike, early morning bird watching, night walks, or simply sitting back to watch the clouds play hide-and-seek with the forest.
A profusion of plant species has adapted to this environment, creating an incredibly rich ecosystem of trees, vines, ferns, orchids and bromeliads, home to hundreds of bird species, possibly thousands of orchid species, tens of thousands of insect species, as well as monkeys, peccaries and even pumas. It’s a habitat still revealing its secrets to science, still mysterious, still magical.
The sophisticated and strikingly-contemporary lodge is the ideal springboard for exploring the biodiverse world of its vast reserve. It combines levels of comfort, service, guiding and cuisine hitherto unheard of in a tropical forest environment anywhere in the world. Built with the latest techniques in sustainable building, it blends beautifully with its surroundings, creating a luxury cocoon amid the rain forest with the natural world just beyond, ideal for contemplation and relaxation.
Guests will explore this profusion of life from the ground to the canopy, walking along
www.metropolitan-touring.com/ecuador/mashpi-lodge
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Dragonfly The smallest beings often teach the greatest lessons. And distance puts the world into perspective. The joys of exploring the micro beauty of the Mashpi reserve and its creatures from ground level take on another almost surreal meaning when we board the Dragonfly and float out over the seemingly infinite canopy. Just 40 minutes each direction with interim moments of relaxed observation designed to enhance our journey of discovery, a ride aboard the Dragonfly allows us to fully realize our place in the universe, the value of each and every species, and the importance of caring for this unique environment and our entire planet. 106
Mashpi Lodge
Golden tanager
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View from the gondola
Dragonfly
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Three-toed sloth
Orchid Station
Cock-of-the-Rock Station
Canopy Station
T1
Elev: 820 m (2690 ft)
Arrival
Elev: 1008 m (3307 ft)
Departure
T3
T2
T4
T5
1035 m (3395 ft)
T6
1000 m (3280 ft)
Technical information: Travel distance from the departure station to the arrival station:
2035 m (6677 ft)
Average travel time from the departure station to the arrival station:
40 minutes
Average travel time from the departure station to tower 4:
20 minutes
Number of towers (T1 – T6):
6
Ground level entry points:
Departure station, tower 4, arrival station
Height above ground level:
0-200 m (0 – 656 ft)
Maximum number of passengers per gondola:
5
Technical specfications
· Main engine: Siemmens de 40HP (Electric) · Backup engine: Siemmens de 40HP (Diesel) · Main and backup transmission systems
Emergency systems:
· Ropes (Departure and arrival station, towers 1 – 4) · Independent evacuation system (towers 5 & 6)
Structural and operational certification:
College of Engineers of Pichincha109
Top Features Mashpi Lodge: • Accessibility: Located inside the Metropolitan District of Quito. An easy and exciting trip. No flights, no boats required. • Rainforest experience, urban comfort: Luxury lodging, fine dining and top service combine with amazing 24/7 panoramic forest views. • Biodiversity hotspot: An extraordinary wealth of plant and animal species, many endemic, including hummingbirds and orchids. • Birdwatching heaven: Viewing opportunities for a staggering 400 species of birds. • Exploration and learning: - Expedition leader and top-trained naturalist guides for inspiring visits - Resident biologist - Waterfall and swimming holes
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- Gentle or active day hikes - Nocturnal forest exploration - Life Centre butterfly farm and research station - Canopy pedaling on the “Sky Bike” - Observation tower • Space for contemplation and relaxation: Spa treatments, hot tub and outdoor panoramic lounge area. • A unique environment worth saving: Designed, built and operated with the goal of protecting this marvelous area for future generations. • Local community involvement: Tourism changes lives for the better. Staff is 80% local and organic food production from the local area supplies your table. • International affiliations: National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts, Virtuoso, Signature Hotels & Resorts
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Sky Bike
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Yaku Suites
Birdwatching
Hikes and waterfalls
Suites & Rooms • 22 rooms - 44 guests: 2 3 Yaku Suites: 37 m , king size beds 12 Wayra Twin:* 34 m2 , two full size beds 2 7 Wayra King:* 34 m , king size bed • Extra beds available for children • Suites: Bathtubs Rooms: Showers • Luxury bathroom amenities • Hair dryer • MP3 docking station • International telephone IDD • Air-conditioning and heating • In-room safety deposit box * 6 interconected rooms (3 Wayra Twin with 3 Wayra King)
Activities in the Reserve • Sky Bike • Observation Tower • Life Centre with butterfly exhibition and gardens • Hummingbird lookout • Birdwatching and wildlife observation • Hikes and waterfalls • Night walks • Children’s activities
Services & Facilities • Dining room and bar • Wellness space with on-site masseuse • Hot tub • Terrace cafe-bar • Gift shop • Extensive collection of books and information on the natural world • Low-bandwidth throughout and Wi-Fi computer use • Emergency electricity generator • Fire prevention and precaution systems; water-sprinkler system • Closed circuit surveillance and security • Lounge with flat-screen TV • Cable TV with over 90 national and international channels • Electricity: 110V (60Hz) Type A & B plugs sockets • Laundry service
Included • Transport to/from Quito, guiding, meals, soft drinks, internet, all activities and visits • Rubber boots, rain ponchos, insect repellent, reusable water flask, small drawstring bag and walking pole supplied
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South
America Travelling to South America is like a rush of blood to the senses. Flavours burst forth from fresh fruit juices, the aromas of chocolate, coffee, cinnamon and wine... Encounters, flashes of recognition, language barriers bridged by a smile. Vistas to make your eyes ache, views to make your fingers tingle, winds that roar, monkeys that howl, sun that beats. It’s all here, across what Arthur Conan Doyle called “the grandest, richest, most wonderful bit of Earth upon this planet.” Metropolitan Touring is a proudly regional company, with its own offices and operations in Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. We know our countries and we love our countries. We create inspiring journeys across South America for our guests, each one a story in the making. And the staff at our regional offices know just
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what to recommend to make your journey that much more special!! Colombia: South America’s best-kept secret Travel to Colombia, a land of incredible beauty, excitement, charm and diversity just waiting to be discovered. As the fourth largest territory of the South American continent, it overflows with the diversity of its people, cultures, regions, flora and fauna. The palm-fringed beaches on the Caribbean Sea, the fe rtile green highlands of the Andes, the rugged yet tranquil Pacific Ocean coastline, and the silent rivers of the lush and tropical rainforest of Amazonia await you. Dance salsa in Cali, explore cosmopolitan Bogota and Medellin, or check out Cartagena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is something for everyone in Colombia.
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Peru: An Intense Discovery Peru is a land of mystery and constant discoveryand one of the 12 mega-diverse countries in the world. Outdoors lovers will find much to love about Peru: white capped mountains, dense rainforests, the deepest canyons and a number of pristine, well-kept national parks. Culture lovers will likewise find themselves right at home because of the well-known hospitality of its people and unique museums, historical sites, ancient ruins and fine restaurants that can be found all over the country. From the lost city of Machu Picchu to the enigmatic Nazca Lines, Peru offers travellers a bottomless wealth of possibilities!
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