Embark on a Journey of Luxury and Conservation
Conservation-led luxury travel company &Beyond has announced the extension
of its South America portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht in the
Galapagos Islands. Named the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer, the 38 m (124 ft)
yacht will operate on two 7-night routes in the east and west of the famed
Galapagos Islands. Boasting just six suites and cabins, the yacht will cater to
a maximum of 12 guests, with two expert guides present on each departure.
Preserving Paradise: A Commitment to Responsible Tourism
With a guest-to-staff ratio ensuring unparalleled service, the &Beyond
Galapagos Explorer redefines luxury in this pristine environment. Beyond
luxurious accommodations, including four cabins and two suites, the vessel
boasts meticulously designed indoor and outdoor spaces. Currently undergoing
refurbishment, the yacht is poised to set sail on its inaugural journey on
June 17, 2024, offering guests an unmatched blend of comfort and conservation.
“We have long believed that the best way to encourage our guests to help protect the world’s wild places is for our skilled guides to help travellers not only fall in love with those places but also to gain an understanding of the threats that they are facing. This is what we are aiming to do through the introduction of our luxury yacht, where two knowledgeable guides will host just twelve guests, showcasing the wonder and mystery of this exceptional destination.”
With only 12 guests on board, the elevated guest-to-staff ratio makes the
Galapagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht operating on the islands. In
addition to the highest level of guiding, the vessel will also offer
beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas, as well as four
exquisite cabins and two luxury suites. Currently undergoing an extensive
refurbishment of its interiors, the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer will set
sail on its first departure on 17 June 2024.
A Symphony of Life: Discovering the Galapagos Archipelago
Situated on the equator, the Galapagos consists of 18 main islands, three
smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets. Designated a World Heritage Site in
1878, the islands are home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, with
many species found nowhere else on Earth. Notable species include the
Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguana, and blue-footed booby. The islands
also feature unique geographical features, and each has created a distinct
ecosystem of its own, with strict conservation measures in place to preserve
the delicate balance. The Charles Darwin Research Centre, located on Santa
Cruz Island, focuses on conservation efforts and conducts scientific research
to protect the rare biodiversity of the islands.
Exploration Unveiled: Diverse Itineraries of the &Beyond Galapagos Explore
Operating on two different 7-night itineraries, the &Beyond Galapagos
Explorer will offer the choice of discovering the east or the west of the
main cluster of islands, while including the highlights of the destination
in both. Highlights of the eastern itinerary include the magnificent
formation of Kicker Rock, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as
sightings of the critically endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay on
Española Island. The western Itinerary features highlights that include
exploring the geographical centre of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino
Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on
Santa Fe Island.
Both itineraries present plenty of opportunities for land and sea adventures
such as snorkelling, hiking, and birdwatching, as well as a plethora of
unique and interesting land, air, and marine species. Rates for both
itineraries begin from USD 10,950 per person sharing per 7-night cruise.
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Pioneering Conservation: A Vision for the Future
In keeping with its stated mission to leave our world a better place,
&Beyond will apply its ethos of Care for Land, People, and Wildlife to
its new base of operations. The company plans to extend its Oceans Without
Border initiative into the area and hopes to be able to review and implement
projects that support the Galapagos’ incredible land and wildlife.
Furthermore, in line with its dedication to community development, it also
aims to train and upskill local residents, as well as to highlight local
procurement opportunities.
For more information or to book, log on to andbeyond.com or contact your preferred travel provider.