This summer, Ecoventura is elated to once again offer passengers aboard select family departures the opportunity to experience the Galapagos Islands directly alongside EPI conservationists.

Ecology Project International (EPI) is a nonprofit, educational organization based in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz whose mission is to improve upon current scientific education and conservation efforts worldwide. Through field-based student-scientist partnerships, EPI demonstrates that by investing in the youth of today we can protect the world of tomorrow.

To aid in the ongoing effort of inspiring ecology’s next generation and through the partnerships they’ve created between students and scientists, EPI aims to educate, train and empower the youth of today to take an active role in conservation and further the efforts of present scientists by carrying their torch into the future.

Ecoventura is proud to be the first tour boat operator in the Galapagos to offer activities involving EPI students and is pleased to open three excursions for our family teen departures beginning this month, July 2017. If you have budding naturalists in your family, this is the perfect adventure for them!

During our summer family teen departures with EPI, visiting teens will have the opportunity to work side-by-side with local EPI students and accompany them in their everyday activities including the exploration of the reserve, visitation of the greenhouse area, observation of the seed identification activity, and more.

EPI is particularly involved in the protection of green sea turtles which are an endangered species caught in a continuing population decline. Like other sea turtles, the Galapagos’ green turtles are especially vulnerable to anthropogenic impacts throughout their various stages of life.

In an effort to stop their declining numbers, EPI students work to identify and flag nests as well as study the environmental effects of things such as beach erosion on nesting green turtles. Visitors taking part in these select Ecoventura teen departures will be given the unique opportunity to improve upon the ecosystem and leave the Galapagos in a better state than which they find it while simultaneously enriching their knowledge base and sharing once-in-a-lifetime experiences with like-minded EPI students.

On our first EPI departure of the 2017 season, we happily donated a Celestron Powerseeker 70EQ telescope to the students so they can enjoy stargazing while winding down after their full days in one of the most celestial places on earth.

Families aboard Ecoventura’s first class yachts, the Eric or Letty, for itinerary A (below) visit the EPI field camps on Thursday and accompany the students in their own journey of discovery. The visit is only on selected summer departure dates. Dates for 2018 will be available soon or please inquire.  Doing so will provide participant families with greater insight into what conservationists face in their daily battle to defend the islands from invasive species and protect the locale to preserve it for future generations.

ITINERARY A

SN = snorkel, KY = kayak or SUP, PR = panga (zodiac) ride

SUNDAY: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, SAN CRISTOBAL (Chatham)

Cerro Tijeretas, SAN CRISTOBAL

MONDAY: Cerro Brujo (SN, PR, KY) SAN CRISTOBAL

Punta Pitt, (SN, PR) SAN CRISTOBAL

TUESDAY: Punta Suarez, ESPANOLA (Hood)

Gardner Bay (SN, PR, KY) ESPANOLA

WEDNESDAY: Punta Cormorant (PR), Champion Islet (SN), FLOREANA

Post Office Bay (SN), Baroness Point (PR), FLOREANA (Charles)

THURSDAY: Highlands of SANTA CRUZ (Indefatigable)

CCFL Breeding Center (Darwin Station), SANTA CRUZ

FRIDAY: Bartolome (PR, SN) or Las Bachas Beach (SN)

Las Bachas (SN) or Black Turtle Cove (PR)

SATURDAY: South Plaza Island

North Seymour (PR, SN)

SUNDAY: Interpretation Center, SAN CRISTOBAL (Chatham)

This is the perfect opportunity for your young scientist-in-the-making to spread his or her wings.

Ecoventura is currently offering 3-time blocks for family departures with EPI including August 6-13, and August 20-27,  but these trips tend to book up very quickly so act now before you miss the boat — no pun intended!

More detailed information on family departure activities can be found here.

Book your Family Departure with EPI now!

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Due to the incredible success of our latest luxury yacht, the MV ORIGIN, Ecoventura is excited to announce that we’ve started construction of yet another brand new vessel that will start operations in 2019!  

With a stunning facade and special attention paid to exhibiting excellence in even the smallest of details, the new super-yacht will be the sister yacht to the MV ORIGIN and one of the finest luxury vessels to sail the Galapagos Islands.

And, as with all the yachts in our fleet, our undying dedication to sustainable ecotourism will continue with our newest yacht.

Achieving top speeds of 15 knots, this fuel-efficient yacht will allow us to spend less time traveling between islands, so you can enjoy all that the Galapagos Islands has to offer. Designed with intimacy and luxury in mind, the new 145-foot vessel will accommodate just 20 passengers in 10 beautifully designed staterooms.

Guests can expect:

• Panoramic windows in all the staterooms
• A spacious sun deck, equipped with day beds, chaises lounges, tables, hammocks, a four-person Jacuzzi, an outdoor shower, and a wet bar
• An elegant dining room featuring marble table tops
• Locally sourced and gourmet style meals prepared by our talented culinary team
• Interior social areas, a comfortable lounge, and a library stocked with books
• A small spa and fitness area and kids zone
• One Naturalist guide for every ten passengers, creating an in-depth and intimate learning environment

The name of the new vessel will be announced in mid-September. In the meantime, you can get a better sense of what’s to be expected by taking a closer look at the MV ORIGIN…

This new video from Kiersten Rich, aka The Blonde Abroad, provides an insider perspective into being aboard the MV ORIGIN as we blaze a trail through the Galapagos Islands.

This video by Courtney Scott gives you another detailed look at what can be expected cruising in the lap of luxury with Ecoventura aboard the MV ORIGIN.

Please visit the MV ORIGIN website for more information and to learn about our promotional offers. We hope you join us in the Galapagos soon — and stay tuned for more details on our exciting new yacht!

The post BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Ecoventura Launching NEW Luxury Yacht! appeared first on Ecoventura.

This article was written by Melissa Sotomayor (Sales & Marketing Assistant at Ecoventura)

As one of the most ecology-minded and socially responsible tour companies in Ecuador, Ecoventura supports various initiatives that benefit the local community’s schools and foundations located in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal.

In partnership with Pack for a Purpose and thanks to our generous travelers, we deliver school supplies to Alejandro Alvear School and New Era Galapagos Foundation. Both support art programs, Eco Scouts, and English activities for physically and mentally challenged kids in need.

How does it work?

We ask our travelers to pack 5 lbs (2.27 kgs) of supplies by providing them with lists of requested items. The amount only takes a small amount of space in their suitcase and requires little effort and still makes a big impact. Some of our guests bring pencils, pens, erasers, and markers while others bring English textbooks, dictionaries, and notebooks.  With the help of the captains working on board each yacht and our warehouse manager, we deliver the supplies directly to schools and foundations. This makes it convenient for any traveler to participate and contribute.

Guests who wish to bring other type of materials are more than welcome to do so as long as they are a school’s necessity. We have had cases where travelers ask if they can bring bigger and heavier supplies such as computer equipment, scanners, soccer balls, modeling clay, ecology-focused teaching aids, amongst others.

All of this help given by our guests represent a huge opportunity for the teachers and kids of the San Cristobal Island. Teachers have improved the education process with the different teaching materials they have received and students learn and improve the English language through the books and dictionaries. Younger students use puzzles, modeling clay and pencil colors for motor activities.

During our last Pack for a Purpose donation visit made in April 2017, we delivered 40lbs of supplies to Alejandro Alvear School and the New Era Galapagos Foundation where kids showed their appreciation with excitement and big smiles!

In 2015, when Ellie, a 5th-grade student from the U.S. decided she would pack for a purpose she got help from her dentist, family, and friends.  She found out about the partnership from our website and brought 300 toothbrushes and 10lbs of English-Spanish dictionaries to the Galapagos.

You can find her story here: http://www.ecoventura.com/ellie-story-pack-for-a-purpose/

Pack for a Purpose is definitely a great experience for someone who wants to help and give an extra support to kids and young adults in need!

The post Pack for a Purpose – Make a BIG Impact When Packing for Your Galapagos Getaway appeared first on Ecoventura.

Those traveling with Ecoventura typically know exactly what they want in their Galapagos cruise vacation — an intimate experience aboard a small-ship cruise vessel offering the best access to the islands, personal attention from staff, and unique experiences they couldn’t otherwise attain aboard a larger cruise vessel.

In choosing our award-winning company to host you on your journey you’ll have all that and more. However, while you’ve already made the biggest (and best decision) of planning your vacation by choosing Ecoventura, there’s still one final decision that remains and that’s whether to cruise the Galapagos aboard a first-class (ERIC & LETTY) or premium (ORIGIN) vessel.
    

First-Class – ERIC/LETTY

The Eric and Letty are identical expedition yachts specifically designed for cruising the Galapagos. Built in 1994, they are well-maintained older vessels measuring in at 84 feet long x 24 feet wide with cruising speeds of 8 knots.

These twin sister ships each house ten double outside-facing fully air-conditioned cabins with a window or porthole view, one double bed or two twin lower beds, private bathroom (hot and cold water showers), bio-degradable soap/shampoo dispensers, hair dryer, closet, drawers, intercom and separate climate controls for your comfort.

Aboard each vessel you’ll also find a dining room in addition to a well-stocked bar, conference area with a flat screen TV, library, and panoramic picture windows. If you prefer spending your downtime outdoors, we also have lounge chairs on our sun decks where you can take in ocean breezes by day or the Galapagos stars by night.

Premium Class – The MV ORIGIN

Built in 2016, the MV ORIGIN is our newest luxury yacht (and we will be debuting her sister yacht in 2019!). It measures 142 feet long x 27 feet wide making it 50% more spacious than the Eric or Letty and at 12 knots, the cruising speed of the ORIGIN is roughly 30% faster.

The deluxe staterooms on the ORIGIN measure 145 square feet, offer large windows with views of the ocean and are all located on the same deck. There are two cabins that can accommodate triples and two cabins that have an inter-connecting door.  

All twin beds can be converted into a king bed, plus there is additional storage and a sitting area as well as bath robes, slipper, Apple TV with -reloaded movies, a universal docking stations, safety deposit box, espresso machine and tea set up en suite.

The ORIGIN has 3 additional crew member on board including a concierge to attend to guests’ needs, an assistant in the hotel department, and a dedicated bartender to cater to our generous open bar and prepare hand-crafted cocktails.

The ORIGIN also offers services not otherwise available on the Eric & Letty such as a light laundry service and Wi-Fi (additional charges do apply).  Other amenities unique to the ORIGIN include a Jacuzzi, a Fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights, and yoga mats. On charters, we can also arrange to have a masseuse or a photographer on board for an additional fee.

The ORIGIN also has several social areas where guests can relax including several seating areas indoors, an extensive library, and a larger boutique. The sundeck has a wet bar, public restroom, outdoor shower, bar-be-que, day beds, tables, and chairs.

SIMILARITIES

Regardless which class of vessel you choose, there are certain aspects you can expect from both.

For example, the island excursions and activities offered will be the same on the three vessels. These activities include guided island excursions, beach walks, zodiac rides, snorkeling, kayaking, star gazing, and whale watching to name a few. All yachts will provide guests with masks, fins, snorkels, wet suits, and kayaks and stand-up paddle boards at no additional charge.

Another thing you can count on regardless of which vessel you choose is the quality of our staff. Many of our staff members, from our Captain to our crew & guides, have been working with Ecoventura for years and we often rotate our crew between yachts to ensure the same quality of service throughout our entire fleet.  This rotating staff includes our chefs as well, which means that you can also count on gourmet cuisine regardless and cooking demonstrations of your choice of vessel.

DIFFERENCES

Now for the main differences you can expect between the two classes of vessel.

First, there are the dining configurations. On the ORIGIN (our premium class vessel) we can configure tables to accommodate groups of two all the way up to groups of ten. On the Eric & Letty (our first-class vessels) the dining configuration is four to a table with the exception of one table that seats a total of six.

In regards to beverage service, the Eric & Letty offer complimentary wine & beer during dinner service in addition to the welcome & farewell cocktail parties where as the ORIGIN offers an open-bar policy with complimentary spirits throughout the duration of the cruise.

The carbon footprint is the same between the two classes of vessel, although the Eric has solar panels and wind generators installed for alternative energy sources while the ORIGIN is stable due to its size and the design of the bow that allows it to cut through waves.

The bottom line is, regardless which vessel you choose you’re bound to have an unforgettable experience in an area of the world so unique you couldn’t possibly fathom until you witness it first-hand. That said, every traveler has their personal preferences and we aim to accommodate each and every guest to make for the most comfortable stay imaginable.

Hopefully, we’ve provided enough detail to aid you in decision making for your perfect Galapagos cruise, but if you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to contact us so we can help you in reaching a final decision and allow you to finish planning and start packing!

The post First Class VS Premium Class – Which Galapagos Cruise is Right for You? appeared first on Ecoventura.

Ecoventura is extremely proud to announce our recent partnership with Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF).  On July 31, 2017 an agreement was signed by the leading dignitaries from the Charles Darwin Foundation, Galapagos National Park Service and Ecoventura establishing the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF).  Together we aim to combine our resources in a collective effort with the goal to bolster conservation in the Galapagos Islands ensuring the diverse plant, animal, and marine life of the archipelago are here for generations to come.

The GBESF funds will be used to support research and conservation projects related to biodiversity including but not limited to monitoring trips, community outreach, scientific equipment, and Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) boat maintenance and equipment as well as the support of projects related to education for sustainability, including scholarships for Galapagueños to study at a local or national university.

From right to left: Eliecer Cruz (former governor of the board), Dr. Arturo Izurieta (executive director of the CDF), Santiago Dunn (Executive President Ecoventura), Dr. Jorge Carrion (Environment Area Director of DPNG)

Home to a vast array of unique tropical plants and wildlife, The Galapagos Islands are a remarkable, albeit extremely delicate ecosystem. It is for this reason that approaching the islands with the utmost care and respect is of paramount importance and essential to their preservation.

Unfortunately, despite the Galapagos being home base to some of the world’s greatest conservation minds and the marine area being under government protection since 1998, the Islands still fall victim to invasive species, tourism companies that are not as committed to island preservation as Ecoventura, and poachers looking to steal the unique wildlife native to the islands for display at foreign zoos or worse yet, to serve as exotic cuisine.

To ensure the protection of this magical corner of the earth, Ecoventura and CDF have come together to raise resources in support of conservation in the Galapagos Islands. To start, we are promoting special cruise departures on our dive boat, the M/V Galapagos Sky, in partnership with CDF’ Marine Biologist, Dr. Pelayo Salinas de Leon, to raise awareness and raise funds for the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund.

Going forward, our partnership will serve to stem the flow of these growing problems and empower all those willing and capable of lending a hand to return the islands to their original state. Admittedly, this is not entirely possible seeing as some species have already become extinct, but if we can prevent the islands from losing so much as one more species of plant or animal, we’ve done our job.

The Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galapagos Islands (CDF) is an international not-for-profit scientific organization. The CDF has been working in Galapagos since 1959 under an agreement with the Government of Ecuador and with a clear mission to work closely with Government Institutions, providing scientific knowledge and assistance to ensure the conservation of Galapagos.  Here’s a bit about their exceptional organization . . .

THE CHARLES DARWIN FOUNDATION

For fifty years, CDF has worked closely with the Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), the main local government environmental authority, overseeing the safeguarding of the island’s’ natural resources, providing the results of scientific research to conserve this living laboratory.

Over one hundred scientists, educators, research assistants, support staff, and volunteers from all over the world take part in this effort. The organizational staff is 90% Ecuadorian and CDF is committed to the training of Galapagos residents as future scientists for the good of the islands and the country at large.

With the help of the IUCN, UNESCO, and a team of worldwide conservationists, the Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galapagos Islands (CDF) was founded under Belgian Law in 1959. For nearly 60 years, CDF has provided unique scientific solutions to protect the Galapagos  Islands. Our work continues to make the biggest impacts at local, national and international levels.

Stay tuned to Ecoventura and Charles Darwin Foundation for more on our partnership as well as ways you can help lend a hand to the ongoing conservation efforts in the Galapagos!

Please email Ecoventura or CDF for more information and ways you can contribute to this worthy cause!

The post Ecoventura establishes Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF) appeared first on Ecoventura.

Operating a cruise company in the Galapagos archipelago comes with a certain unwritten responsibility — one that Ecoventura takes very seriously. By leading a fleet of tour vessels in these protected marine waters and conducting Galapagos tours ashore, we’re responsible for upholding conservation standards and ensuring we are preserving the environment for future generations of guests to come.

Therefore, we at Ecoventura go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that we not only adhere to the expectations of the Galapagos National Park and Ecuadorian government, the protectors of the region, but that we set the standard for others. This is done in a multi-level approach, from the construction and operation of our vessels to the staff we hire, and the exploration guidelines we strictly adhere to and ensure our guests follow.

Read below to discover why cruising the Galapagos Islands with Ecoventura is the most sustainable and intentional way to explore this one of a kind archipelago.

Ecoventura’s Commitment to Conservation 

Because of our commitment to the ongoing sustainability of this fragile ecosystem, Ecoventura has become a recognized leader in responsible tourism to the Galapagos Islands. Our unwavering dedication to green tourism dates back almost 20 years, far beyond that of any other Galapagos cruise company. In 2000, we were the first company to be certified by Smart Voyager, a voluntary ecological certification established by The Rainforest Alliance. And, by 2006, we became the first carbon neutral fleet operating in the islands.

In 2006, Ecoventura established the Galapagos Marine Biodiversity Fund in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund to support environmental education and marine conservation by strengthening the ability of local communities to manage their vast natural resources.

Our latest commitment to conservation is our partnership with Charles Darwin Foundation, with the Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF), which can be read about in full detail here.

Why You Should Choose To Cruise 

It’s important to note that when it comes to your Galapagos vacation, just by choosing to cruise over choosing to stay on land, you’re already making an informed, eco-minded decision. This is because staying on land has an immeasurable, negative impact on the environment, whereas cruising on a green yacht (like those in Ecoventura’s fleet) has little to no effect on the environment or the Islands’ animal inhabitants.

Some of the negative impacts that result from staying on land include the introduction of invasive species, increased energy demand derived from fossil fuels, and local population increases in limited areas. Unfortunately, despite these obvious negative impacts that land-based tourism is causing, there continues to be more and more visitors choosing this option.

According to the Galapagos National Park Directorate, in 2006 49% of tourists to the Galapagos Islands stayed on board a cruise vessel whereas 51% stayed at hotels on land. In 2015, the distribution was 32% on board ships and 68% on land. This clearly means Galapagos tourism is trending in the opposite direction of what active conservationists would like to see. This may be in large part due to tourists not realizing the negative impact that land-based stays can have on the local environment.

Promoting Galapagos tourism to include pleasures that can be found in dozens of other locales around the globe is irresponsible and shortsighted as it cheapens the authentic experience and hastens the region’s decline. The fact is, most tourists don’t travel to these remarkable islands for the local party scene, all-inclusive resorts, or other typical tourist traps. They come here for the unique nature and wildlife that can’t be viewed or experienced anywhere else on earth.

Through no fault of their own, many tourists are just misinformed and unaware of the potential harm they’ll be doing to the local environment by choosing to stay on land. It is, therefore, our responsibility (along with conservationists and other eco-minded tour companies) to promote sustainable, cruise-based tourism in the Galapagos.

In addition to all the environmental benefits listed above, tour boats offer unique access to remote visitor sites on uninhabited islands with intimate wildlife viewing opportunities. Tour boats also navigate at night, which means fewer daylight hours are spent in transit – translating to more time exploring the islands for our guests!

On a small tour vessel such as those in our fleet, you can develop a real sense of intimacy with the islands and their animal inhabitants. It’s far and away the best way to embark on this travel experience – and as you now know, the most environmentally responsible!

For more information on the added benefits of cruising check out the “choose to cruise” write-up on our website.

To hear more about how Ecoventura cruises make you a more eco-minded, responsible guest of the Galapagos Islands or to book your travel today, feel free to contact us.

Lastly, if you’d like like to lend a hand to Ecoventura and locals working hard to preserve the Galapagos Islands, check out our previous blog article on local preservation here!

The post Cruising With Ecoventura: The Most Sustainable Way To Visit The Galapagos Islands appeared first on Ecoventura.

On September 14th, during TravelMart LatinAmerica, Ecoventura and Oro Verde Hotels held a celebration at Hotel del Parque in Guayaquil, Ecuador where we hosted a cocktail party with invited guests and made a BIG announcement – the name of our second luxury yacht.

Ecoventura’s President, Santiago Dunn, informed the crowd of 250 guests  “We are constantly striving to do things bigger and better than we have in the past while still remaining true to our fundamental practices of being an eco-friendly, fully sustainable Galapagos cruise company dedicated to conservation.”

In 2017, Ecoventura brought you the MV ORIGIN, the pinnacle of luxury cruising in the Galapagos Islands…Never one to rest on our laurels, coming in 2019, we’re proud to bring you Origin’s sister yacht, the MV Theory.

Edmundo Kronfle – Hotel del Parque, Santiago Dunn – Ecoventura, Diego Andrade – Hotel Oro Verde

Since not all of Ecoventura’s extended family could be present, we decided to write this post and bring that same exciting news to all of you!

The MV Theory is our brand new, state of the art luxury cruise vessel that is already under construction at the shipyard in Guayaquil. Theory will operate in Galapagos as the sister yacht to the MV ORIGIN – two of the finest ships where you can experience all that the Galapagos has to offer. 

Stay tuned as we share more exciting news about the MV Theory on the blog in the coming weeks and months!

The post Announcing MV THEORY Ecoventura’s New Yacht at Travel Mart Latin America! appeared first on Ecoventura.

Back in July, we made a brief announcement that we’ve been hard at work building a brand new luxury vessel to add to our Galapagos cruise fleet.  Now, we’re proud to introduce you to the MV Theory – the sister yacht of the hugely popular MV ORIGIN.  Construction is already under way in Guayaquil at the shipyard and skilled workers are assembling the Theory as shown in this time-lapse video:

The MV Theory is our brand new, state of the art luxury cruise vessel that will operate in Galapagos starting in 2019 as the sister yacht to the MV ORIGIN – offering a combination of eco-friendly features, modern furnishings and high-end amenities with remarkable speed and precision. 

The THEORY will offer many of the same features – all ten spacious deluxe staterooms on one deck with wide ocean views with two twin beds that convert to a King bed.  

Cabin amenities will include ample sectional closets, nightstands, modern décor, fine linens and towels, climate control, Apple TV’s with pre-loaded movies, universal docking station, Espresso and tea set up, vanity with lighted mirror and safe deposit box.  You’ll sleep like a baby sea lion amidst the luxurious linens, memory-foam mattresses, and soft pillows that await your arrival.

The private bathrooms will include a modern rainfall shower, dual-flush toilet, sink, hair dryer, waffle bathrobe, slippers, plush towels, biodegradable soaps, and shampoos.

Our chic dining room will offer table configurations accommodating from just two up to ten guests seated together. Guests enjoy a generous open bar policy and each meal is carefully prepared, with dinner a beautifully plated four-course menu with Ecuadorian and International specialties. Your meals will be creatively prepared by our culinary school trained chefs using only the finest, locally sourced ingredients.

One of its exterior highlights is the sundeck, which features shaded outdoor dining, day beds and loungers, wet bar and outdoor shower.  There is also a four person Jacuzzi and an intimate fitness center on board.

Travel in the company of a knowledgeable naturalist guides in small groups or no more than ten per guide, creating an in-depth and intimate learning environment. There are plenty of activities planned to keep guests entertained; nature walks, beach strolls, zodiac jaunt, snorkel excursions, kayak and stand up paddle boarding.  Theory (and Origin starting in October) will also have a clear-bottom zodiac to provide guests a view underwater while en route to excursions.

This sizable super yachts cuts through the waves for a smooth voyage with remarkable speed and precision, yet is fuel efficient.  With a gleaming physique, the streamlined ORIGIN & THEORY are a precious commodity in this ecological wonderland which allows you to spend more time exploring the beautiful Galapagos Islands!

We look forward to sharing many more details with you in the months to come just as we look forward to sharing the Galapagos with many more guests aboard our new MV Theory.

Email us if you are interested in learning how you can join us aboard the Theory in 2019 and stay tuned for specialty themed and hosted departures!

The post Introducing the MV Theory – Our New Luxury Vessel! appeared first on Ecoventura.

The Galapagos Islands have experienced many challenges the last few hundred years. Having seen the influx of pirates, introduced species, and more recently unregulated tourists, many of the islands have changed dramatically. Relentless harvesting of defenseless endemic tortoises, massive illegal fishing, and the introduction of invasive plant and animal species have combined to threaten the ecological integrity of the Galapagos region.

The entire Galapagos archipelago is massive, consisting of six main islands, 40 smaller islands and countless inlets, totaling 53,000 square miles of protected marine reserve. Protecting a region this large requires constant monitoring and control of human activities, but although the costs of ongoing management are enormous, the benefit is even greater. 

Galapagos is unique in the world (70% endemic). They didn’t make two of them; when this one is spoiled or gone, it’s forever.

It is in this spirit that — together with IGTOA — Ecoventura has championed the Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund (GTCF),  because we recognize that travelers play a critically important role in protecting the special places on earth. 

Starting in October 2017, all four Ecoventura yachts will participate in the GTCF.  All of our guides and crew went through an orientation in September to learn about the GTCF program. As part of this support, Ecoventura, on behalf of GTCF, will ask guests to make a voluntary donation during or after their cruise to this incredible fund.

What is the Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund (GTCF)?

The GTCF is a unique opportunity for visitors to make a personal lasting contribution to the protection of Galapagos. It is a program of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA), a 501c3 non-profit organization made up of responsible tour companies dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands and to providing critical financial support for conservation. IGTOA and the GTCF have been supporting conservation in Galapagos for over 20 years.

IGTOA developed the GTCF to give eco-minded tourists the ability to give back to this magical archipelago during or after their visit. Tourists can make tax-deductible donations, 100% of which will go towards protecting and preserving the Galapagos Islands. 

It is completely up to you whether or not you choose to make a donation, but if you do donate, you should know that 100% of your money will go directly to the people and the organizations working on the ground to protect the Galapagos and not to covering overhead or administrative expenses as those costs are covered by IGTOA and its member companies, including Ecoventura.

Why is the GTCF so Important?

Biologists believe that Galapagos is the world’s test case for the very concept of nature conservation because if conservation can’t work in Galapagos, where else on earth could it work? Protecting Galapagos isn’t just a priority; it’s a necessity.

The protected areas are managed by the Galapagos National Park Service (GNPS), which is an agency of the Government of Ecuador. The Galapagos Park entrance fee you pay to enter the park is actually distributed to all the national parks within Ecuador and only a smaller portion is returned to the GNPS to finance the very expensive work of patrolling, monitoring, and protecting the islands and vast marine reserve.

Current funding falls short of what is realistically needed to protect the natural integrity of Galapagos. Management authorities must rely on outside sources of funding.

A major source of outside funding comes annually from Galapagos tourists. Their donations support the indispensable conservation work being carried out by conservation organizations such as the Charles Darwin Foundation, Galapagos Conservancy and Galapagos Conservation Trust, and many others.

Without this financial help, the daily management of Galapagos would be severely constrained.

What do the GTCF Funds Support?

The funds you donate will be awarded via a grant process to different worthy conservation organizations in Galapagos. In the past, funds have gone toward projects like purchasing a K-9 sniffer dog unit to detect invasive species at airports and ports and spaying and neutering pets to help control domesticated animal populations. Improved quarantine controls and Marine Reserve monitoring equipment are other examples.

Some of the issues currently being tackled with the generous donations of guests include the combatting of invasive species, battling illegal fishing in Galapagos waters, and the education of Galapagos youth about conservation initiatives and techniques.

Combatting of Invasive Species:

Invasive species are the single biggest threat to fragile native and endemic species of Galapagos. The GTCF has channeled critical financial support to organizations working on the front lines in the battle against invasive species, helping to improve quarantine and cargo handling procedures between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, and reducing the possibility of extremely destructive species arriving to the islands.

Battling Illegal Fishing in Galapagos Waters:

As part of GTCF’s ongoing commitment to combat poaching and illegal fishing, the GTCF  has helped fund successful initiatives that improve environmental crime enforcement and prosecution in the Galapagos Islands and helped obtain GPS and video monitoring equipment for the Galapagos National Park Service to aid in their patrols for illegal fishing activity.

Protecting the Marine Reserve is a difficult challenge and one that requires constant vigilance and updates to technology, but it’s also seen recent confirmation of its needed presence with Ecuadorian officials capturing a Chinese vessel transporting 6,600 illegally fished Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks back to their port of origin.

This haul was disturbing on many levels given the size, scope, and catch (with Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks being one of the most sought-after marine species in the Galapagos). Divers visiting the archipelago have long sought close encounters with this incredibly unique, beautiful, and tranquil species known for traveling in schools so large they’re referred to as “clouds”.

These particular illegal shark fishermen were captured, prosecuted, and jailed. However, the fact remains that the discovery of this vessel was largely due to the fact that the Chinese crew failed to turn off their GPS transponder and evade detection.

This means the need for constantly up-to-date technology is greater than ever. Providing Galapagos conservationists with more vessels, crew, and gear is the only real deterrent for future illegal fishermen that may be actively considering pilfering Galapagos waters.

Education of Galapagos Youth:

The future of the Galapagos Islands ultimately lies in the hands of the people who live here. That’s why educating and inspiring Galapagos youth is perhaps our most important long-term investment. The GTCF supports programs (like Ecology Project International) that engage Galapagos youth in hands-on conservation training and fieldwork and inspire them to become the next generation of conservation leaders.

Stay tuned for more information from Ecoventura on the GTCF and how you could give back to the Galapagos. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn further details about current initiatives or would like to donate, please contact us! Donations are confidential and your name will never be released to another fundraising organization.

IGTOA is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in the U.S., so if you are a U.S. taxpayer, your donation should be tax deductible.

The post Giving back to Galapagos – Ecoventura Supports IGTOA’s Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund (GTCF) appeared first on Ecoventura.

This season, many of you are busy preparing for holiday feasts with friends and loved ones. 

Here at Ecoventura, we’re constantly working to perfect and enhance every guest’s dining experience.

When you travel with us, we know that your culinary journey in the Galapagos is just as important as your daily excursions. After all, one of the best ways to experience a new place is through your tastebuds!

As such, we are delighted to offer passengers on our luxury vessel, the MV ORIGIN, a culinary departure in the fall of 2018 with local celebrity chef, Chef Juan Carlos Ordoñez!

About Chef Juan Carlos Ordoñez

Chef Ordoñez is the talented executive chef at Casa Julian the famed restaurant housed in Hotel Del Parque, a five-star luxury boutique hotel in Samborondon, a suburb of Guayaquil.

This leader in Ecuadorian gastronomy will be on board to wow you with his signature style that combines the traditions and customs of local cuisine with his creativity and innovation.

When he was 19 years old, Juan Carlos studied Gastronomy and Hotel Management in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the International Buenos Aires Hotel and Restaurant School.

After working in a few catering companies, he decided to dedícate his career to gastronomy complementing his studies in the Cocineros Gato Dumas College, obtaining a degree in Professional Cooking, majoring in Gastronomy Management.

While living in Argentina, Juan Carlos worked as an apprentice chef in Buenos Aires and San Carlos de Bariloche, gaining more experience until he landed a job at the Four Seasons Hotel, where he stayed for several years. After ending a period of hard work at the Four Seasons Hotel, Soledad Nardelli asked Juan to be part of the CHILA Restaurant in Puerto Madero, ending his stay in South America.

Once Juan Carlos returned to Ecuador, he founded “Sybaris Catering”, one of the most important catering companies in the market. He also started teaching and became the Gastronomy Director of the Superior Institute of Culinary Art. In 2013 Juan Carlos joined the Oro Verde Hotels team, the biggest and most important hotel chain in Ecuador, where he became the Banquet Chef.

In 2016 he became the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Manager of Casa Julian Restaurant at Hotel del Parque, the first luxury Boutique Hotel in Guayaquil.

Ecoventura’s Culinary Experience in the Galapagos

This special culinary departure is an exciting extension of our culinary mission. All of our Galapagos cruises are staffed by talented culinary-trained chefs who bring the islands to your table with the freshest high-quality ingredients.

Our passion for conservation runs through every meal you enjoy onboard with 48% of our products being organic and 25% of our products sourced right here in the Galapagos. Every year our mission is to reduce the amount of food needed from the mainland to help protect the environment from invasive species and non-native animals. We source meats and dairy from Santa Cruz and organic fruits and vegetables from San Cristobal.

Of course, local seafood is always a favorite!

We offer health-conscious preparations that highlight the quality and incredible flavor of every ingredient. And for guests who have special dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, low sodium/low fat, etc.), we are pleased to accommodate you! Our chefs ensure you don’t have to sacrifice flavor when dining differently from your fellow passengers.

With Ecoventura, you can start your day with a delicious cup of locally grown coffee or hot chocolate alongside breakfast favorites from our delicious and frequently changing breakfast bar. 

Dine on traditional favorites like quiche Lorraine, eggs Benedict, and local yucca dumplings stuffed with cheese served with honey.

We know you will work up an appetite as you snorkel with green sea turtles and colorful reef fish, go on guided nature walks, and sea kayak. After each excursion, our crew will serve delicious snacks to keep you fueled for your adventures!

A hearty buffet-style lunch is served daily in the dining room or on the sundeck. Fresh salads, shrimp ceviche paired with a local fish en papillote, and tuna tartare are only a few of the tasty dishes you may be served during lunch. 

At that time, a staff member will share the dinner menu for the evening and you can choose between two entrees of meat or fish.

After a long day exploring the beautiful islands, freshen up and head to the dining room for a signature cocktail, local beer or a glass of wine.

From grilled langostinos (giant prawns) in garlic aioli to creamy Ecuadorian potato soup, each dish is carefully planned and prepared by our talented culinary team. Our chefs offer a variety of regional dishes as well as timeless favorites to please any palate. Dessert is always offered and changes nightly from a decadent Crème Brulee to a mixed berry pannacotta.

Learn more about our dedication to serving incredible cuisine here.

Ready to taste the Galapagos Islands? Join our culinary departure cruise with Chef Juan Carlos Ordoñez!

Culinary departure on board the MV ORIGIN: September 16-23, 2018.

Cruise rates are $7,850.00 per person and a 10% early bird discount is available up until 180 days prior to departure (subject to change at any time).

If you have any questions or would like to inquire about booking your culinary departure today, please feel free to contact us at any time!

The post Ecoventura’s Culinary Departure with local Celebrity Chef – New for 2018 appeared first on Ecoventura.

Traveling with Ecoventura is an adventure in paradise! We offer a variety of activities to our guests from sea kayaking to Stand-up paddleboarding to snorkeling, but not every guest wants to jump in with both feet.

Not a swimmer? No problem – Ecoventura has you covered on your Galapagos cruise!

We are pleased to announce the addition of a glass-bottom boat for guests aboard the MV ORIGIN!  

The clear bottom enables remarkably crystal clear, gratifying observations of the undersea marine environment for our guests who prefer to remain dry.

The glass-bottom boat is in addition to the two rubber zodiacs we use for landings. This boat offers unobstructed views for anyone who wishes to see marine life without getting wet like non-swimmers or photographers or simply for those who want an alternative way to explore marine life on their Galapagos cruise.

Our guides will show you the places that only these smaller zodiac boats can take you! We will explore mangrove estuaries, coves, and caves for close encounters with native wildlife.

Once reaching the estuaries, passengers are presented with the opportunity to paddle around unencumbered leaving you to explore with your loved ones. Get ready to experience close encounters with a variety of wildlife including reef sharks, sea turtles, golden rays, and more!

The ORIGIN is the only 20-passenger yacht with this type of glass-bottom boat on board as they are normally found only on larger ships in the Galapagos.

This new addition offers an exciting new way to see the colorful fish swimming beneath you. Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions and turtles, marine iguanas, and penguins!Find out more about the activities we offer on our expedition cruises here.

Contact us at any time for more information about our luxury vessel or to book your next Galapagos cruise vacation with us!

The post The MV ORIGIN Now Offers Glass Bottom Boat! appeared first on Ecoventura.

Happy 2018 from the Galapagos Islands!

December is one of our favorite months here at Ecoventura as we celebrate the holidays with our guests. Each year we celebrate the season with two special holiday cruises, one for Christmas and one for the new year.

Our holiday departures are very popular and already sold out for 2018. We encourage you to book now for our 2019 Christmas and New Years departures. We would love to have you on board with us next year!

Christmas Celebrations in Ecuador

Christmas is an important occasion here as Catholicism is predominant in Ecuador. This is a time for family traditions, prayer, friends, festivities, and incredible food. Ecuadorians pay special attention to the food during this time as they prepare meals that require more work and more hands to make. Families gather together on “Noche Buena” (Christmas Eve) to share a large meal. A great time is had by all as everyone enjoys music, conversation, and fellowship. Christmas day is for relaxation and recovery from the night before.

Traditional holiday meals in Ecuador include:

Pavo Horneado: Roasted turkey is a must have for Christmas dinner in Ecuador

Hornado de Chancho: Ecuadorian specialty for roasted pork leg marinated with garlic and beer

Image via Laylita’s Recipes

Pernil Lojano: Pernil is a roasted pork loin dish where the pork is marinated in a sauce of bitter orange juice, onion, garlic, achiote, cloves, cinnamon, cumin and panela and slow roasted in the oven for several hours.

Canelazo and Naranjillazo: Canelazo is a warm cinnamon spiced cocktail made with cinnamon, water, sugar, and aguardiente.

Gifts are exchanged on Christmas but they are traditionally smaller token gifts instead of overly extravagant gifts.

Christmas Cruise in the Galapagos Islands

We always make our Christmas departures extra special for you with holiday decorations, a Christmas tree, and sparkling lights. Our talented culinary team will prepare traditional Ecuadorian Christmas dishes such as turkey, pork, and all the trimmings.

Bringing your family? Don’t worry! Santa knows the way to the Galapagos Islands! Sometimes our captain even dresses up as Santa for the kids and shares small gifts.

Christmas is a magical time to travel with us in paradise!

A New Year in Ecuador

Ecuadorians sure know how to kick off a new year! Traditions focus on letting go of the bad experiences of the past year as they look forward to the new.

The people construct “años viejos” or “old years” in the form of large scarecrow-like dummies.

On December 31st, the años viejos are put on display and then burned along with the old year. These dummies are built to represent old fears, negative experiences, or people from the previous year. They are constructed of paper, sawdust, wood, and fireworks. Sometimes they are filled with lists of past worries and problems or wishes for the future.

Even without a New Year’s Eve party to attend, this tradition makes for quite a sight as these dummies are lit on fire at midnight!

Another tradition in Ecuador on New Year’s takes place when children and women (or men dressed as women) dress in black and play the old year’s “widow” role, crying and asking for some money or candies in the streets.

A well-known and popular tradition here is the eating of twelve grapes at midnight for good luck in the upcoming year.

While these traditions take place everywhere in Ecuador, the most exciting place to see New Year’s Eve traditions come alive in is Salinas, a beach town resort area close to Guayaquil.

Ring in the New Year with us!

Our holiday departures are very popular and already sold out for 2018. We encourage you to book now for our 2019 Christmas and New Years departures. To set the mood and get you into the celebratory spirit, we will greet you with party hats, noise-makers, and a champagne toast! We hope to celebrate with you in 2019 and help you bring in the new year with the adventure of a lifetime.

From all of us here at Ecoventura, we wish you a very happy new year! Contact us today to cruise on board our first-class and luxury vessels. Travel with us for Christmas or New Year’s in 2019 and experience the magic of the holiday season in the Galapagos Islands!

The post Holidays in the Galapagos Islands appeared first on Ecoventura.

For more than two decades, Ecoventura has showcased the pristine beauty of the Galapagos in an eco-conscious way through our expedition cruises. We are constantly striving to deliver a first-class luxury experience in a sustainable and responsible manner.

The understated elegance and eco-friendly design of the MV ORIGIN was a shining example of this mission. The mission continues with MV THEORY – the new addition to our Galapagos cruise fleet!

Ecoventura President, Santiago Dunn, shares his excitement in the video below:

“The ORIGIN was a hit and we love it so we laid the keel for the sister ship, and the name THEORY made the most sense. We are extremely excited that THEORY will be joining the ORIGIN in January 2019.” – Ecoventura President, Santiago Dunn

Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking theory published in “On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection” was the inspiration for us when we named the ORIGIN.

The MV THEORY will be the sister ship of the MV ORIGIN with many of the same features. She is currently under construction.

To ensure the same attention to detail and beautiful decor, we are working with the same interior designer who delivered on the MV ORIGIN. Cindy Muirragui’s designs continue the same feel that passengers enjoy on the ORIGIN while also highlighting some key differences.

“My inspiration for the THEORY came from the Galapagos themselves and creating a comfort and homey feeling in a five-star hotel. We are so pleased with the ORIGIN that we cannot wait to see the THEORY Designer.” – Cindy Muirragui, MV THEORY Interior Designer

Our MV THEORY cabins will offer many of the same luxuries and modern furnishings as the MV ORIGIN. Large panoramic windows in the cabins and the social areas will make passengers feel as if they are always outside. The MV THEORY has been beautifully designed with high-end amenities and cabins with king sized beds that can convert into two twin bed, connecting rooms for families, as well as triples.

Private bathrooms will include the luxury of a modern rainfall shower, hairdryers, and plush towels as well as eco-friendly biodegradable soaps and shampoos.

A technology/art piece room will allow children to watch movies and play so guests in the lounge can also watch TV or read separately during family departures. Relaxation will be available in our massage room and the fitness center offers guests opportunities to stay active on the ship.

Our sundeck will be a guest favorite with loungers, daybeds, a wet bar, showers, and a Jacuzzi. Guests can also enjoy al-fresco dining while enjoying the beautiful scenery of their Galapagos cruise.

Dinner is served in our chic dining room with large panoramic windows. As with the ORIGIN, dinner consists of beautiful four-course meals prepared by culinary-trained chefs using the finest, locally-sourced ingredients.

We will provide knowledgeable naturalists for an intimate learning environment focusing on small groups of no more than ten guests per guide. Activities like nature walks and zodiac rides will be offered daily. Paddle boards, kayaks, a glass-bottom boat, snorkeling gear, and wet suits will be available for all of our guests so each day on board is sure to be an adventure!

We are confident the MV THEORY will be a stunning addition to our fleet and will provide our guests with more of the high-quality, eco-conscious travel experiences they have come to expect from Ecoventura. We are excited for 2019 and hope to see you on her maiden voyage!

Contact us today to book your 2019 Galapagos cruise aboard the MV THEORY and to learn more about what makes Ecoventura truly special!

The post Ecoventura’s Vision For Our Newest Luxury Yacht, The MV THEORY! appeared first on Ecoventura.

Ready for a vacation in paradise? The Galapagos Islands await and Ecoventura is pleased to share two new videos filmed aboard the MV ORIGIN to provide the perfect Galapagos cruise experience.

… AND NOW OFFERING FREE WI-FI ON DEPARTURES from SEP 2 to Dec 9 2018 ONLY in addition to our other Fall promotions…

MV ORIGIN – NEW Special Offers

• We are offering 10% Early Bird discount on selected seasonal (Fall) departures dates for bookings confirmed 180 days or more prior to departure on the MV ORIGIN! Departures include Sept 9-16, Oct 7-14, Oct 21-28, Nov 4-11, Dec 2-9 for itinerary B and Sept 2-9, Sept 16-23, Oct 14-21, Oct 28-04 Nov, Nov 11-18, Dec 9-16 for itinerary A.  Departure dates are subject to change.
• Book a trip with us between September 2nd and December 9th and receive free WI-FI. This is a $300 added value and limited to one PIN per cabin. Get ready to flood your friends’ news feed with photos of sea lions!
• Book two weeks back-to-back on the ORIGIN’s Fall Early Bird departure dates and for a limited time get a 10% Early Bird discount AND a 5% back-to-back discount! Normally, we do not combine two discounts so this is a one-time offer valid until February 28th.

We often describe the MV ORIGIN as our dream boat. This spectacular yacht combines tasteful design with luxury amenities and a focus on environmental sustainability.

The ORIGIN offers a smooth voyage with improved fuel efficiency which means less navigation time between islands and more exploration time for our guests. It’s easy to see why this ship is so special to us!

Our experienced 14-member Ecuadorian crew will take excellent care of you during your trip.  Our crew includes a high-level captain, a full-time concierge, and two expert naturalist guides – one for every 10 guests, the lowest ratio in the Galapagos. And of course, our culinary school-trained chefs will make sure each meal is an adventure on its own!

Each time you travel with us in the most pristine place on earth we deliver an unforgettable experience of the islands. We offer nature walks led by our expert naturalist guides, snorkeling with the marine life, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more!

We are available to answer any questions you have about our many departures and special promotions. Contact us today to learn more about a sustainable luxury Galapagos cruise with Ecoventura in the islands!

The post Exciting New Videos of the MV ORIGIN Plus Great Fall Deals Happening Now appeared first on Ecoventura.

This video and post details our Itinerary A Galapagos cruise – the Central and Southern route – but keep an eye out for our post on Itinerary B next week! Ecoventura offers two unique 7-night itineraries in the Galapagos Islands alternating every other week.

Enjoy two easy to moderate nature walks each day led by our experienced naturalists. They will share their extensive knowledge of the wildlife and what makes each island special. Guests can enjoy snorkeling for five of the eight days with Ecoventura – sometimes twice a day!

Itinerary A visits the southern/central route while Itinerary B takes a western/ northern route. The sequence of islands may vary slightly depending on the vessel you choose.

Itinerary A

Itinerary A starts on San Cristóbal Island, the first island Charles Darwin visited during his time in the Galapagos. Kayak the waters around the island with the iconic Kicker Rock in the distance.

Take a zodiac ride to Punta Pitt for a hike and see all three kinds of boobies that reside in the Galapagos Islands – red-footed, blue-footed, and Nazca!

Journey with us to the island of Española, the oldest of the Galapagos Islands. Explore Punta Suarez to see blue-footed boobies and a wide variety of endemic species like the waved albatross which only nests on Española Island.

Snorkel along the rocks of Gardner Bay and explore the caves for a possible close encounter with wildlife!

Gardner Bay is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world where the white sand beaches attract hundreds of sea lions.

Floreana Island is next! Enjoy a zodiac ride around the island and see how the color of the sand varies from beach to beach.

Leave a postcard at Post Office Bay or take one to hand deliver – a tradition in the Galapagos! Enjoy another snorkeling adventure here and at Devil’s Crown, a volcanic crater eroded by waves that is home to many different marine species.

On the island of Santa Cruz, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn more about the conservation of these Islands and see giant tortoises at various stages of development at the Tortoise breeding Center. Explore the highlands of the Galapagos and see the lava tunnels Santa Cruz is famous for.

Enjoy a nature hike on Bartolomé Island and take in the breathtaking views. There are more opportunities to snorkel at Las Bachas Beach. Keep a lookout for a chance to spot a Galapagos penguin or Flamingo!

See the unique flora of South Plaza Island and you will better understand just how different the landscape of each island is.

Round out your trip with a visit to North Seymour Island, home to one of the largest populations of frigate birds. Then it’s back to San Cristóbal to conclude your trip.

Special thanks to Alesha and Jarryd of the NOMADasaurus for sharing their beautiful photos from their cruise on itinerary A.

Specials!

Hurry – now is the best time to book our fall early bird departures for a 5-10% discount when confirmed 180 days or more prior to departure. These discounts apply to both itinerary A and B. (As departures reach occupancy, they may be removed from the Early Bird offer at any time).Afraid you’ll miss something? Don’t worry – you can always book two weeks back to back! 

MV ORIGIN: Get 10% discount off our Galapagos cruise rate on selected Fall departure dates.  Book two weeks back to back and get an additional 5% discount.  In addition, free Wi-Fi is offered on all departures from Sep 2 to Dec 9 (limit one PIN per cabin).   

Eric/Letty:  Get 5% discount off the cruise rate on our selected Fall departure dates – including November 18-25 which is Thanksgiving week.  Book a second week on the  M/V Galapagos Sky, our dedicated dive live-aboard, and get an additional 5% discount on the Eric or Letty.

Hope to see you in the Galapagos soon! Contact us now for more information.

The post Experience Itinerary A – Featured in a New Video! appeared first on Ecoventura.

Ecoventura alternates two different full week 7-night itineraries as required by the Galapagos National Park in an effort to better reduce usage on heavily visited sites. The main difference between the two itineraries is Itinerary A visits the southern/central route while Itinerary B takes a western/ northern route.

This article highlights the incredible experiences you will encounter on Ecoventura’s Itinerary B.

Special thanks to Alesha and Jarryd of NOMADasaurus for sharing their photos of Itinerary B with us!

Itinerary B Overview

Itinerary B offers wildlife encounters, high-quality service, gourmet food, and an unforgettable trip aboard our eco-friendly vessels.

Each day we offer two easy to moderate nature walks led by our experienced naturalists. Learn from their extensive knowledge of the wildlife and see what makes each island special. Activities are offered daily including kayaking and paddleboarding. Snorkeling is available for five of the eight days of your trip with Ecoventura – sometimes twice a day!

On Itinerary B, you will see penguins, tortoises, and volcanic flows as you visit the youngest, most remote islands of the archipelago.

If you want to see the flightless cormorant, Itinerary B is for you! These birds only live on western Isabela and Fernandina Islands.

Photo credit Renato Granieri Photography

Itinerary B Route

Itinerary B starts on San Cristóbal Island. After getting settled in, head over to La Galapaguera Cerro Colorado to see the most well-known animal of the islands, the Galapagos Tortoise!

Spend the first full day of your trip on Genovesa Island, one of the best islands to see bird species of the Galapagos including the Nazca booby, Red-footed boobies, red-billed tropic birds and short eared owls.

At Darwin Bay and Prince Philip’s Steps, you have the option to enjoy some snorkeling with the sea lions in the warm waters.

Next up is Las Bachas Beach, on the northern tip of Santa Cruz. Enjoy a walk among the marine iguanas on the white sand beach followed by another opportunity to snorkel.

In the afternoon, head to Cerro Dragon where you will walk amongst the land iguanas it was named for – Dragon Hill. Here you can spot Darwin’s finches and if you are lucky you might spot a Greater Flamingo in the saltwater lagoon.

Go ashore on Fernandina Island, the youngest of the islands in the Galapagos. At Punta Espinoza, walk among the volcanic flows and glimpse sea lions and marine iguanas lounging in the sun. This is also your chance to spot the flightless cormorant!

Enjoy a nature hike and take in the spectacular views on Isabela Island. Snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard along the secluded shoreline at Tagus Cove for the chance to see a Galapagos penguin!

On Rabida Island, the high iron content from the volcanic stones results in a truly unique dark red beach. Explore the island on foot then get in the water for more snorkeling with wildlife!

Explore Puerto Egas on Santiago Island and walk among the rock pools and lava flows. Get out your snorkeling gear and dive in to see the tropical fish around the island.

Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island to learn more about conservation in the archipelago. Here you can see the different developmental stages of the giant Galapagos tortoises at the breeding station. Don’t miss the lava tunnels of the highlands! Finally, it’s back to San Cristóbal to end your journey with us.

For more information on our Galapagos cruise Itineraries, see this post or this one detailing the must-see wildlife in the Galapagos Islands.

Specials!

Hurry – now is the best time to book our fall early bird departures for a 5-10% discount when confirmed 180 days or more prior to departure. These discounts apply to both Itinerary B and A (as departures reach occupancy, they may be removed from the Early Bird offer at any time).

MV ORIGIN Offers:

• Get a 10% discount off our Galapagos cruise rate on selected Fall departure dates.
• Want to see it all? We’ve got you covered! Book two weeks back-to-back with us on both Itinerary A and B  and get an additional 5% discount on both weeks. 
• Free Wi-Fi is offered on all departures from Sep 9 to Dec 9 (limit one PIN per cabin).

Eric/Letty Offers: 

• Get a 5% discount off the cruise rate on our selected Fall departure dates – including November 18-25, which is Thanksgiving week.

Hope to see you in the Galapagos soon! Contact us now for more information.

The post Experience Itinerary B – Featured in a New Video! appeared first on Ecoventura.

It’s not a coincidence that our company name starts with “eco”!

We strive to share our love of the Galapagos Islands while also being mindful of our impact on the environment. That is why we continue to partner with Ecology Project International (EPI) in 2018 by providing special departures for families in July and August of this year.

What is Ecology Project International?

EPI is a non-profit NGO based in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. They provide a unique opportunity for youth and the community to participate in local conservation efforts through field-based student-scientist partnerships. These experiences give Galapagueño students an active role in conservation and encourage them to facilitate positive change in the world and in their community.

Educating young people is one of the best investments we can make for the future of our planet and EPI does this beautifully! EPI and Galapagos National Park (GNP) staff lead students in classes focused on different aspects of conservation in the islands. In one unit, students take measurements of sand levels to identify possible beach erosion. In another, students track, tag, and measure Galapagos tortoises. The data collected will directly assist GNP to track and monitor the land tortoise population.

Ecoventura Partnership

Our work with EPI takes many forms — from career exploration opportunities for Galapagueño teens to our support for students to participate in a one-week field study program.

Ecoventura is proud to be the first tour boat operator in the Galapagos to offer activities involving Ecology Project International.

This year, we are offering three special family departures that include an excursion to work alongside local EPI students in their scientific projects at the reserve! These activities include  visitation of the greenhouse area or observation of the seed dispersal identification and more.

Our special departures make for the perfect family vacation. Your entire family will get the chance to share this exciting opportunity as you visit the EPI field camps. Families will accompany students in learning about conservation and discovering more about the Galapagos. Guests will leave with a better understanding of a conservationist’s role in defending the islands from invasive species and protecting the islands to preserve them for generations to come.

Share the beauty of the Galapagos Islands with your kids and enjoy close encounters with wildlife that only the archipelago can offer. Seeing the look on your son or daughter’s face when they see a sea lion or marine iguana up close for the first time is a memory you will carry with you forever.

Four EPI students got the opportunity to travel with Ecoventura and learn from our experienced Naturalist Guides .  We would like to give a special thank you to Ivan Lopez, who volunteered his time to mentor these young people whose experience on board the MY ERIC for one week was both memorable AND educational! 

Here are a few quotes from local students who traveled with Ecoventura in December 2017 and had the trip of a lifetime:

What did you learn? “I learned that when there is a volcano eruption, the old lava that is inside comes out and loses all its minerals and breaks easily when is dry, but the new lava keeps its minerals and doesn’t break easily.” — Nahym

What did you like the most? “Seeing frigatebirds, penguins, and walking to the top of Bartolomé Island.” — Elena

What did you learn? “The different types of giant tortoises they have in the Charles Darwin Foundation in captivity and the process they follow to later return them to the islands they belong to.” — Camila

Our first class yacht, the M/Y LETTY or ERIC, will serve as your family’s home base while traveling with us for our 2018 EPI family cruises. The visit to the EPI reserve takes place on the Thursday of each cruise week. The available cruise dates for these departures are:

• July 22-29, 2018
• August 5-12, 2018
• August 19-26, 2018

We only offer these EPI visits during select summer departures. They are very popular so reach out to us today to reserve a spot for your budding environmentalists!

Email us today for more information or to plan your next family vacation.

The post Ecoventura Partners with Ecology Project International to Offer Special Summer Departures appeared first on Ecoventura.

It is important to remember the Galapagos is more than just the wildlife and the beautiful scenery; it is also about the people who live here. That is why every year we try to do more to support and give back to the Galapagos community!

To help with this meaningful work, we offered to sponsor three students and mentor from Jovenes fotografos de Galapagos (Young Photographers of Galapagos) project with two cabins on our first-class vessel, the M/Y ERIC. Our offer gave them the opportunity to spend a week traveling with us in the islands capturing beautiful Galapagos wildlife photography.

Photo by Diego Bermeo

Diego Bermeo is the Director of Photography for the Galapagos National Park and a mentor to young photography students on the islands. Through this initiative, he was able to share his knowledge of wildlife photography and help students to understand the importance of their home.

Three students were selected from the island of Santa Cruz to join us on the cruise: Carlos Salinas, Dayana Sanmartin, and Hoppe Quevedo.

Photo by Hoppe Quevedo

The Galapagos National Park has very strict rules in place for what is allowed on the islands. The park’s rules and regulations play an important role in conservation of the area so the Galapagos can remain a pristine environment to be enjoyed for years to come. Restrictions include what can be brought into the park, where tour operators can go, and how to interact with the animals. Flash photography is not allowed on the islands and drones cannot be used within the national park.

Photo by Hoppe Quevedo

Our naturalist guides were on hand explain the importance of respecting those rules and the role they play in preserving the ecosystem and wildlife. Guides also shared experiences and knowledge of the flora and fauna and were available to answer any questions.

We are delighted to be sharing some of the photos taken during the cruise and what some of the students had to say about the experience.

Photo by Hoppe Quevedo

“These 4 days were full of excitement and will be unforgettable. Diego Bermeo, our Mentor, has given me the opportunity to visit and photograph many places on different occasions and helped me to grow as a person in different ways too” – Dayana Sanmartín

Photo by Dayana Sanmartín

Photo by Dayana Sanmartín

Photo by Dayana Sanmartín

“During this trip, I had the opportunity to learn more about the wonderful place I live in, the Galapagos Islands. Thanks to its geography, everything flows with such a tranquility…This place is amazing for taking photos of nature and wildlife!” – Carlos Salinas

Photo by Carlos Salinas

Photo by Carlos Salinas

Photo by Carlos Salinas

These students not only learned about what it means to capture a great image – but perhaps more importantly, they learned more about their home and what it means to protect the Galapagos Islands. We want to acknowledge and thank Ivan Lopez, our naturalist guide on board, for volunteering to guide these students.  We know these talented young people have a bright future ahead of them!

If you are interested in seeing the islands with Ecoventura, or want to join us on a departure where photography is the main focus, we invite you to reach out for more information.

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As part of our commitment to provide passengers with a sustainable tourism experience in the Galapagos Islands, we are constantly collaborating with worthwhile organizations who share a love of the islands and work to protect them.

For that reason, on July 31, 2017, Ecoventura signed an agreement with the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) and the Galapagos National Park (GNP) to establish the Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF).

From right to left: Eliecer Cruz (former governor of the board), Dr. Arturo Izurieta (executive director of the CDF), Santiago Dunn (Executive President Ecoventura), Dr. Jorge Carrion (Environment Area Director of DPNG)

The purpose of this fund – GBESF – is to combine our efforts in support in research and Galapagos conservation that will help protect the Islands and ensure the diverse ecosystem is not only surviving – but thriving for years to come.

Our goal at Ecoventura is to raise at least $150,000 for the fund each year.  To reach that goal, all proceeds or net revenue from cabins sold on two cruises will be donated to the CDF for the fund.

The week of May 13-20 2018 will be on our dedicated dive liveaboard the M/V Galapagos Sky, and the week of September 2-9 2018 will be on the MV ORIGIN, our luxury vessel.  

Our guests can help by booking a cabin on either departure.  And, our partners who sell our trips also have the option to donate their commission or portion thereof to the fund. those who choose to do this will be recognized on our website and social media.

Despite government protection, the Galapagos Islands still face problems such as the introduction of invasive species that compete with native species, illegal fishing, unregulated tourism, illegal migration and population growth.

The fund will contribute to many different projects related to biodiversity and Galapagos conservation. Some examples are monitoring trips, community outreach, scientific equipment, and Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD) boat maintenance and equipment. Support will also be provided for projects related to sustainability education, including scholarships for Galapagueños to study at a local or national university.

The Charles Darwin Foundation was established in 1959 and has been supporting scientific research of the archipelago for almost 60 years. Their collaboration with government agencies, scientists, educators, researchers, and volunteers has played an important role in Galapagos conservation, restoration, and sustainable development of the Galapagos. We are proud to partner with this esteemed organization along with the GNP to protect the region for future generations. 

Choosing to cruise with Ecoventura is more than just signing up for a vacation to tour the Galapagos. Choosing Ecoventura is also choosing to invest in the long-term health of the archipelago through sustainable tourism and our efforts to give back to the community.

If you are interested in traveling with us and helping to support conservation through the GBESF, please contact us today to reserve your cabin!

The post Ecoventura Funds The Galapagos Biodiversity and Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF) appeared first on Ecoventura.

Traveling with Ecoventura is an adventure in paradise! We offer a variety of activities to our guests from sea kayaking to Stand-up paddleboarding to snorkeling, but not every guest wants to jump in with both feet.

Not a swimmer? No problem – Ecoventura has you covered on your Galapagos cruise!

We are pleased to announce the addition of a glass-bottom boat for guests aboard the MV ORIGIN!  

The clear bottom enables remarkably crystal clear, gratifying observations of the undersea marine environment for our guests who prefer to remain dry.

The glass-bottom boat is in addition to the two rubber zodiacs we use for landings. This boat offers unobstructed views for anyone who wishes to see marine life without getting wet like non-swimmers or photographers or simply for those who want an alternative way to explore marine life on their Galapagos cruise.

Our guides will show you the places that only these smaller zodiac boats can take you! We will explore mangrove estuaries, coves, and caves for close encounters with native wildlife.

Once reaching the estuaries, passengers are presented with the opportunity to paddle around unencumbered leaving you to explore with your loved ones. Get ready to experience close encounters with a variety of wildlife including reef sharks, sea turtles, golden rays, and more!

The ORIGIN is the only 20-passenger yacht with this type of glass-bottom boat on board as they are normally found only on larger ships in the Galapagos.

This new addition offers an exciting new way to see the colorful fish swimming beneath you. Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions and turtles, marine iguanas, and penguins!Find out more about the activities we offer on our expedition cruises here.

Contact us at any time for more information about our luxury vessel or to book your next Galapagos cruise vacation with us!

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