Galapagos cruise
Little did Charles Darwin of the ?Theory of Evolution? fame realize that the virgin islands of the Galapagos would become a fascinating destination for more naturalists to follow. He stayed for five weeks to complete his path-breaking research .
You can now travel to this archipelago of 13 major islands and marvel at the rich flora and fauna of these islands. Located 1,000 km from the Ecuadorian mainland, only 5 of the islands are inhabited . The islands were formed 3-5 million years ago from volcanic activity in the ocean that erupted to the surface forming islands, some getting conjoined to form larger islands. As recently as 200 years ago, fresh eruptions have changed the landscape even further worrying scientists that the heat may take a toll on the fauna of the islands.
Galapagos Cruises
Luxury ships, motor boats, sail-boats and can take you to these magnificent islands . Most cover trips to the islands of Baltra, Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Fernandina, Isabela, Santiago, Bartolome, Espanola, and South Plazas where most animals can be spotted. These luxury cruises can cater to a large number of passengers and are fast enough to take to you far-away islands. The luxury ships include the Ambassador, Eclipse, Galapagos Explorer II, Galapagos Legend, Isabella II, and the Santa Cruz. Luxury motor boats include the Agressor I and II, Beluga. Erik & Letty, Mistral and Parranda. Alta, Diamente, and Lammer Law are the magnificent luxury sailboats.
First-Class cruising experience includes air-conditioned cabins with attached baths with hot and cold water facilities. Dining rooms offer buffet spreads even to the most discerning palette . Entertainment includes on-board TV and DVD facilities with a wide range of channels to choose from. These First Class boats and sailboats house powerful engines and are designed to take you to remote corners of the islands. You will be spoilt for choice on these exotically named boats and sailboats : they are the Aida Maria , Archipel, Cachalote, Coral II, Dpahne, Dorado, Eden, Fragata, Galpagos Adventure I, Galpagos Adventure II, Heritage, Liberty, Lobodel Mar, Nemo, Nortada, Reina Silvia, San Jose, Samba, Sea Cloud, Sky dancer, The Beagle, Tip Top I, Tip Top III, Estrella del Mar, Cruz del Sur and Islas Plazas .
Economic options to choose from the Tour Superior Class are the motor boats, the Amigo, Angelito, Galapagos Adventure, Guantanamera Seaman, Darwn, and Pelikano. Sailiboats include the Ahmara, Angelique, Encantada and Sulidae. These trips offer excellent rooms and catering, at an affordable budget. Guides are also provided.
Popular trips with the backpackers include boats taking you to the very same places as the other trips but in often cramped rooming quarters with bath sharing with the crew. This can be quite a friendly and intimate experience. Guides are also provided but may not be fluent with various languages, which is not so bad if you have researched your trip beforehand! The Cormorant, Rumba, Yolita , Antarida II and Poseidon are some options to choose from.
Some of the above mentioned trips offer customized diving experience that cannot be compared to any other similar experience. The ocean surrounding the islands is now a world heritage site where no fishing is allowed .
Book in advance
The Galapagos trips are often booked many months in advance, so book early to avoid disappointment. A 3 day on ?board will usually suffice you a treat with the fauna, but a 7 day trip is recommended if you are a serious naturalist or wildlife enthusiast.
When is the best time?
January through March is the hot and dry season and ideal to spot animals basking in the sun. The flora is also at the islands best at this time of the year . The water temperatures are also ideal for snorkeling and diving . However, until September, the rain and cooler temperatures attract more sea-life.
Whatever may be your budget, a cruise around the Galapagos islands is truly an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience.
Other Articles
All over the world only the United States have more cruise...The experience of the cruise is worth treasuring the whole...
Families would definitely prefer the trips that take them to...
