“Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans,” says the famous John Lennon quote, delivering a gentle warning to day dreamers. In life, there are people who do things, and people who talk about doing things: Rebecca Rothney heads up the “just do it” camp.

We sit down with the inspirational founder of Pack for a Purpose to hear how she came up with the idea of packing for a purpose.

Free Shipping

The moment of inspiration came to Rebecca on a trip to Africa where it occurred to her that she was flying across the globe with a huge amount of unused “free shipping”. The standard baggage allowance on international flights can be put to good use, she thought.

So, in the weeks prior to her trip, she started stocking up. “I asked all my friends to give up their coffee for one day and buy supplies with that money. That’s all, just one coffee,” recalls Rebecca. 

After this there was no looking back. Each trip Rebecca took she filled her spare luggage with supplies: “I’ve been there, I’ve seen the need and I actually have the capacity to do more,” she says. “I began asking wherever I travelled what people needed, and it was so varied – on one trip, for example, we took stethoscopes for a clinic. Can you imagine – a clinic without stethoscopes! A simple stethoscope weighs less than a kilo but it can touch a thousand hearts.”

Sharing the word

The next step was to help others to make use of their excess luggage to bring supplies for local people. This was when she set up the Pack for a Purpose website.

Ecoventura Packs for a noble Purpose

Social responsibility and giving back sit at the core of our beliefs here at Ecoventura. We have supported the Alejandro Alvear school for many years and recently the Corazones Unidos Foundation on the island of San Cristobal which helps kids with disabilities. We knew our guests wanted to donate supplies, and when we met Rebecca, we knew exactly who would benefit most from her Pack for a Purpose program. See the full list of school supplies here.

Pack for a Purpose followers

“We have no way of knowing how many people are just doing it,” says Rebecca, “because it’s simple and there’s no sign up or registration.”

Many guests who visit the Galapagos aboard our vessels, Origin, Theory and Letty, take great pleasure in bringing school supplies. It doesn’t have to be huge amounts – “small but impactful things is the key”, says Rebecca.

The generosity also spreads beyond our guests. Recently the teams at Ecoventura and Pack for a Purpose helped Sooki Hong, who was visiting the Galapagos Islands (but not travelling aboard our yachts), deliver materials to the school.

“Every time someone chooses to be gracious and kind the world is better, Period.” Rebecca Rothney, founder of Pack for a Purpose.

To finish, Rebecca recalls some of the most moving tales she has experienced over the years: “We’ve had families who have packed for a purpose end up sending shipping containers of goods to schools as they were so inspired.”

In another case, there was a child who wasn’t attending class because he didn’t have shoes. “A guest who happened to work for a shoe-making company bought some shoes,” tells Rebecca. “This changed the little boys’ life: he could now attend school.”

If you would like to pack for a purpose when visiting the Galapagos, please visit our designated page on the website to see the full list of supplies needed at Alejandro Alvear School. Don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need any further assistance.

The post Are you packing for a purpose? Interviewing Founder Rebecca Rothney appeared first on Ecoventura.

The trickiest part of planning a visit to the Galapagos Islands can simply be “Which month do I pick to travel?” Whilst it is a year-round destination, no month is quite the same in terms of climate. And, most importantly, the islands’ inhabitants are always up to something different from month to month.

Galapagos Seasons

Essentially there are two different seasons within the Galapagos Islands: the wet warmer season which typically lasts from January until May, and the dry cooler season which begins in June and follows through to December.

This “cooler” season (all things relative now, as air temperatures range from 18 – 26 degrees C) is more commonly referred to as the Garua season – which translated from Spanish means the “misty” season. Days are sunny or overcast and there can be the occasional drizzle. Happily, it’s not too hot for exploring the islands, and whilst the water temperature is a little less warm (approximately 20 degrees C), at Ecoventura we provide comfortable wetsuits for snorkelling excursions.

During the mornings the islands appear to be floating on clouds, a phenomenon which led them to be called “The Enchanted Isles”. Sunrises and sunsets during the Garua season are breathtaking – witness the western volcanoes piercing through the misty haze and you will understand why it’s one of our favourite times of year here. Avid animal lovers will benefit hugely during these months, as the slightly cooler temperatures correlate with a surge in wildlife activity – especially during September and October. Let us explain!

September and October surge in wildlife

The Humboldt Current is a cold ocean water current which flows up the west coast of South America all the way from Antarctica bathing the Galapagos Islands in nutrient rich waters. Particularly present during September, this potent current has a significant impact on marine activity and the best way to enjoy this is snorkelling.

Endemic to the Galapagos Islands, the Galapagos Penguin is the only penguin found north of the equator and it flourishes at this time of year – torpedoing through the waters – try and keep up at your peril – it’s such a thrilling sight and impossible not to fall for these heavenly little birds.

Perhaps the most lovable creatures of all are the inquisitive Sea Lion pups which adore frolicking in the waves and will swim right up to your mask and wave hello, cheekily disregarding the archipelago’s two metre rule (the Galapagos National Park firmly stipulates visitors must not approach wildlife closer than two metres – yet it’s hard to enforce this on playful wildlife but something we strongly encourage).

In October, Green Sea Turtles become more visible – their nesting colony in the Galapagos is one of the largest in the Pacific Ocean and following these peaceful creatures float through the water is one of the most serene experiences you can enjoy.

Whales & Dolphins

Ecoventura’s two Luxury Yachts Origin and Theory and First Class Yacht Letty sail to Isabela and Fernandina on their Western and Northern Route and during September and October, whale and dolphin sightings are common off the coasts of these islands. Orcas gracefully breach the waves and Humpback calves can be seen swimming alongside their mothers – all from the yacht’s deck – a magical sight you will never forget.

It’s not just the marine wildlife of the Galapagos which become increasingly active during this season; thanks to the slightly cooler temperatures, land mammals, reptiles and birds are encouraged to turn their attention to their future descendants and embark upon their mating rituals – many of which are worthy of award winning nature documentaries!

From Lava Lizards to Sea Lions

Lava Lizards begin their courtship by showing off their muscles with a series of push ups, and male Sea Lions bark and front up to one other in a bid to protect their harem – often resulting in macho scuffles – stand back! The majestic Waved Albatross – the Galapagos’ largest bird which boasts an impressive wing span of up to 8 feet – is still nesting on Espanola and this island is visited on Ecoventura’s Southern and Central Route by all three yachts. Many of the other iconic Galapagos birds continue to nest as well, such as frigate birds, Flightless Comorants, Blue Footed, Red Footed and Masked Boobies. In October it’s already possible to observe the Blue Footed Boobies raising their fluffy footed chicks!

The Galapagos Islands are undeniably the jewel in Ecuador’s crown, yet it would be a shame to miss out on visiting the mainland and everything it has to offer if you have the chance. September and October are a wonderful time to experience the rest of the country with its historical colonial towns and cities, highland markets and haciendas, stunning national reserves and last but by no means least diverse flora and fauna of the spectacular Amazon basin.

Seasonal Promotions

Take advantage of travelling during the Fall with Ecoventura’s enticing Promotional Departures – and don’t forget we have a specialty Photography Departure in October (book before May 31st, 2019, and we will give you 10% discount).

ORIGIN: 10% off the cruise rate throughout September and October 2019 (excluding the 15th – 22nd September and 27th October – 3rd November departures).

LETTY: 5% off the cruise rate throughout September 2019 departures (excluding 29th September – 6th October) and including 13th – 20th October.

TWO WEEKS BACK TO BACK ON ORIGIN & LETTY OR COMBINED WITH GALAPAGOS SKY: Ecoventura offers two distinctly unique 7 night itineraries alternating every other week, with itinerary A visiting the Southern/Central route and itinerary B taking a Western/ Northern route.  Take 5% discount on both weeks on seasonal departures or 5% on the second week only on peak departures when you book two consecutive weeks back to back. This cannot be combined with any other discount and is subject to restrictions.

For promotions on the Galapagos Sky,  check here.

The post Why visit the Galapagos in the “COOL” Season appeared first on Ecoventura.

Today is World Turtle Day, a fantastic initiative sponsored by American Tortoise Rescue, and a celebration that is very close to our hearts here at Ecoventura.

Established in 2000, the aim of World Turtle Day is to celebrate turtles and tortoises around the globe and to raise awareness of their plight. The Galapagos Islands are home to two very special species, the Galapagos Green Sea Turtle and the Galapagos Giant Tortoise, both of which can be encountered during cruises on board three of our vessels – First Class Yacht Letty, and Luxury Yachts Origin and Theory.

The Galapagos Green Sea Turtle

The Green Sea Turtle is found in tropical and sub tropical waters – they love the coral reefs and nutrient rich waters which bathe them – hence why the Galapapos Islands are such a perfect habitat. They are supremely fast swimmers; their powerful flippers helping them whizz through the water at speeds of up to 35mph, yet they can also be found taking their time floating serenely around the reef – happy to be followed by an inquisitive snorkel and mask.

Threats

Sadly they face many threats and their global population numbers are falling. The modern day fishing industry poses significant danger as the turtles become tangled up in nets and tragically drown. Curious juveniles will try and eat almost anything – jellyfish are a firm favourite, but unfortunately there are too many plastic bags littering the ocean that resemble them, causing suffocation. Introduced mammals on the islands, such as cats and rats, raid nests and eat eggs and hatchlings before they’ve even had a chance of life.

The Galapagos Conservation Trust

It can feel challenging to celebrate these magnificent creatures whilst knowing the damage that humans have done, yet remarkable organisations such as The Galapagos Conservation Trust, supported by Ecoventura, are striving to make a difference. Not only is the GCT working to reduce the use of plastic within the archipelago they are also focussed on educating the local community about the danger of its use and eco alternatives that can be used in its place.

Since Green Turtles have been spotted off the coast of Floreana Island, the GCT have launched an initiative to eradicate the island of invasive species and restore it back to its original ecological state. The hope is that the original inhabitants, such as the Galapagos Green Sea Turtle, will once again thrive.

The Giant Galapagos Tortoise

Did you know that excluding Antarctica, Giant Tortoises once lived all over the world? Yet as the human race grew, they were hunted until extinction on land – managing to survive only on oceanic islands? Despite the challenging environmental conditions on the Galapagos Islands – such as the extreme heat of the burning equatorial sun, threats of draught or volcanic eruptions, the Giant Galapagos Tortoise has managed to adapt pretty well to its surroundings and make these islands its home.

The Charles Darwin Foundation set up its research station on
Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and here Ecoventura guests are able to see the tortoises as tiny hatchlings as well as their full grown giant selves! Up in the highlands of Santa Cruz, Giant Tortoises roam in their natural habitat on the Moreno family farm, Las Primicias as well as other properties.

The Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund and its Efforts

Despite the positive effects of the captive breeding in the Galapagos, there are only about 15,000 Giant Tortoises left in the wild – globally. It’s vital we understand more about these historic creatures and their well being in order to safeguard their future. In partnership with the Charles Darwin Foundation, Ecoventura established The Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF) in order to support several research and conservation projects within the archipelago.

Earlier this year, the fund embarked upon a new project – collecting 200 biological samples from the Giant Tortoise to understand how human practices and interaction with domestic animals may affect their health. Long days both in the field and the laboratory successfully generated some important findings – such as the discovery of antibiotic resistance in Giant Tortoises. Every little helps.

The future?

Together, Turtle and Tortoises are part of the order Testudines – which have lived on this planet for an incredible 200 million years, and it would be beyond tragic if we were responsible for an end to this spectacular reign. So how to help? If you want to actively support this threatened species as well as the efforts of The Galapagos Conservation Trust and
The Charles Darwin Foundation then why not adopt one of them for yourself? Happy World Turtle Day!

The post Happy World Turtle Day! appeared first on Ecoventura.

Earlier this year in April on the itinerary B, Ecoventura had the pleasure of hosting native New Yorker Matt Dutile – renowned travel, hospitality and lifestyle photographer on board Theory.

This was Matt’s second cruise with Ecoventura and he has shared his thoughts on his Galapagos experience. Scroll down to admire the shots he captured of our beloved islands.

“It may seem hyperbolic to describe the voyage aboard the Theory as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but having traveled all around the globe I can truly say it is. There’s something magical and enchanting about the Galapagos – how each island is its own unique ecology and the way wildlife approaches you without fear.

There’s a sense of discovering something primordial we’ve lost in our day to day lives – our connection with the natural world. To the creatures of the Galapagos we are not humans, but just another animal. It’s hard to describe how amazing it is to experience that most fundamental of relationships.

For a photographer it’s a playground. The animals will sit and pose for you, or interact in ways found no where else on the planet. Capturing the changing landscapes – red rocks, spindly green cacti, barren black volcanic surfaces – that’s a delight in and of itself. There’s few places where you get to see the landscape transform as dramatically in mere hours sailing distance.

For me, the Theory is hands down the best ship in the Galapagos. The crew are second to none, they love what they do, and they help you enjoy every minute of your trip. It’s nice to return to your own creature comforts as well after a long day of snorkeling, hiking, or kayaking. After all, it takes quite a bit of energy to keep up with those playful sea lions under the water.

Having a comfortable lounge and bed to come back to every night is a blessing. The chefs are rockstars in their own rights. The food on board is always fantastic. I mean truly fantastic.

It’s hard to pick one or two highlights on a trip like this. Swimming with penguins and marine iguanas was amazing. The penguins are so swift and agile under the water. It’s an extreme challenge to try and capture them, but incredible to witness their grace. For the marine iguanas, it’s hard to feel like you’re not coasting alongside mini Godzillas canvassing the rocks for some tasty algae.

I enjoyed the scenery on this route as well. It was fantastic to compare to my memories of the southern route and how they contrast. I don’t think there’s any way you can go wrong with either. The Galapagos is a gem every where you go, and thankfully the captain, crew, and Theory make it the best home for exploring this natural paradise.”

For any budding photographers out there, don’t miss our special “Focus on Photography” departures in October where Ecuadoran photography expert Mauricio Torres will be on board the Origin & Theory to help guests get the most out of their photos during their Galapagos Cruise.

If you would like more information on what “Focus on Photography” entails please read our earlier blog and for booking details please see below.

Dates: Oct 13-20 2019 (Itinerary A – Southern & Central Route)

Oct 20-27, 2019 (Itinerary B – Northern & Western Route)

Rates are $7,850 per person, double occupancy, and we have some great specials going on now!

Specials:

• Book soon and get a 10% Early Bird discount!  Valid until June 14th!
• We are offering Free Wi-Fi on departures from September 1 to December 15. That means you can share your photos online with your friends and family while still on your Galapagos cruise!

Booking: Contact us today with any questions about our special departures or to book your Galapagos cruise with us!

The post Capturing the Energy of Life appeared first on Ecoventura.

Every year since 2015, Ecoventura has offered their guests the unique opportunity to participate in activities involving  Ecology Project International (EPI).  We have continued to support this phenomenal organization that develops conservation leaders to facilitate positive change in their community.

Ecology Project International’s Vision

Operating in only five countries worldwide, EPI’s mission is to improve and inspire global science education and conservation efforts through field-based student-scientist partnerships. 

How does EPI operate in the Galapagos?

In the Galapagos Islands, EPI arranges for local high-school students to participate in a 4-10 day wildlife ecology course with a field science curriculum where they are trained to develop critical thinking skills and a conservation ethic.  The students complete more than 25 hours of research in the company of Galapagos National Park rangers as well as 60+hours of coursework, exploring the natural features of these unique islands where evolution is witnessed first hand.  In 2018, the total number of student participants was 283 from nine local schools.

The Ultimate Family Trip

Ecoventura is excited to announce their family cruise departures for the spring and summer in 2020 which will include one of two different programs operated by EPI in the Galapagos Islands. We strongly believe that these will enhance the experiences of our guests by not only giving them a fantastic opportunity to learn about local conservation efforts first hand but also by providing them with an interesting cultural experience getting to know the youth of the Galapagos Islands aka the Galapagueño teens!

Walking Excursion of Puerto Ayora

The first of these is a walking excursion of Puerto Ayora with EPI’s “Mola Mola Eco Club” where Ecoventura passengers will learn the secrets of human history on Santa Cruz Island directly from its people. Local high school students will show the highlights of their hometown while sharing stories, legends, and traditions of Galapagos. Guests will also participate in community conservation efforts by helping clean up the bay using  a handmade net devised by students as part of a campaign to keep the beaches and bays safe for marine life.

Field Activity

The second activity enables guests to take more of an active role within conservation by rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty! Alongside EPI instructors and students, guests will explore the Pajaro Brujo Reserve located in the Santa Cruz highlands. Here they will see Giant Tortoises in their native habitat, hear about the reserve’s natural history, learn about seed dispersal research protocol and collect and analyze data including seeds from tortoise dung!

So Come See For Yourselves

Cruising the Galapagos Islands offers one of the best, if not the best, family holidays imaginable. Our luxury yachts Theory and Origin were the first expedition yachts in the Galapagos to become official members of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux collection – and therefore guests joining us can be sure they will enjoy the highest standard of hospitality possible.

From tumbling through waves with playful sea lion pups and gliding over coral reefs after graceful turtles, to hiking across lava fields and sea kayaking around secluded coves, this exotic and unique archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Yet conservation and sustainability needs to be at the heart of all of it, and that’s why Ecoventura are proud to announce we will donate between $600 – $1200 to Ecology Project International each time we offer one of their activities to our guests.

Contact us today with any questions about our special family cruises offered on Origin & Theory or the Letty and we would be delighted to have you on board!

The post The Ultimate Family Trip in the Galapagos – Conservation for the next Generation appeared first on Ecoventura.

In the Galapagos Islands, it’s obvious who the main stars of the show are. But what about those back stage? Here at Ecoventura we know that what makes our voyages unique and memorable is not simply due to the miraculous flora and fauna of the archipelago, but also very much down to our crew members who keep the show afloat, so to speak! They take huge pride in delivering a high standard of service, whilst making sure the whole operation runs smoothly. As a result we would like to focus on a few of these individuals, beginning with our fabulous concierge, Daniela Munoz, who looks after our guests on board Origin.

Born in 1986, Daniela’s interest in the tourism industry began when she was only 15 and it spurred her on to enrol at the Universidad de Especialidades Espiritu Santo in Guayaquil where she obtained a degree in Tourism and Hotel Management. She continued to work as a customer representative in TAGSA, the company in charge of operations at Guayaquil Airport, before joining Copa Airlines where she remained for 7 years.

After this, Daniela decided to look for opportunities further afield, and completed a Master’s Degree in International Tourism Management in Barcelona. However, life in Ecuador was never far from her thoughts and she knew she wanted to return and work in her home country. This is when she decided to focus all her energies on finding work in the Galapagos Islands, one of the most competitive destinations in tourism not only in Ecuador but in South America itself. She was successful, and in December 2018 we were delighted to welcome her to the team at Ecoventura!

We sat down with Daniela to ask her about her life on board:

“I am currently a Concierge at the Origin and sometimes I can’t believe that Galapagos is my office! I have many responsibilities on board this luxury vessel; I have to supervise that the cruise, food and beverage operations run smoothly every day, making sure that all procedures that were established by Ecoventura are fulfilled. I am in charge of bringing top notch customer service to the passengers that we receive every sunday, I have to indentify and anticipate their needs, making them feel that they are always taken care of is my main priority. I also have to make sure that we mantain a positive work environment and professionalism between the crew members.

“What I love most about my job is that it gives me the opportunity to learn every day and grow as a profesional. The fact that we are in a luxury vessel in a privileged destination such as Galapagos, is always a challenge. It’s not the same to manage a hotel on land as it is on board a cruise. So I really love and enjoy the fact that I have to come up with solutions for different situations every day. I don’t feel it’s a routine and having sunsets that look like paintings is really a plus.

“It’s really hard to pick my favorite spot in Galapagos because I really enjoy them all. From Kicker Rock to Tagus Cove or Rabida, every one of these islands are really magical. If I would have to pick one I would have to say Devil’s Crown definitely. Since I’m a diver I like to get in the water for snorkeling every once in a while and this has become my favorite site.

“It’s challenging working in a Relais & Chateaux property, but in a good way. I think it gives prestige to Ecoventura and I share their philosophy about the art of living. The tourism industry is about that; always giving the customer the best experience and making them feel as if they are in their own home in a welcoming environment. It’s good to be part of an association that helps you guarantee and maintain a certain quality of standard.

“One of the most memorable moments for me was hearing one of my passengers say that she felt proud of the role that I had developed. She told me that it was inspiring for her young girls who were on board to watch a woman in that role. The Origin gives me the opportunity to have the most amazing office and to set a positive example at the same time. “

The Origin and her sister yacht Theory are the only vessels in the Galapagos Islands to be accepted as a member of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux collection, joining a distinguished group of hoteliers, chefs and restaurateurs that have set the standard for excellence in hospitality. Our guests can be reassured once on board they will enjoy the highest standards in the hospitality world for food & beverage, and as is clear from Daniela’s own words, a supremely attentive service from our crew.

Cruise rates are $7,850 per person, see here for more information for what is included but if you have any questions please do Get in touch with us today – we look forward to welcoming you on board!

The post 60 Seconds with Daniela Munoz – Ecoventura Concierge appeared first on Ecoventura.

Rolling waves gently lapping against the side of your luxury yacht, exotic birdlife flying overhead, and spectacular views stretching into the horizon… can you imagine a more perfect backdrop for lunch? Nor can we! If you love eating fresh, organic, locally-sourced cuisine and thrive on sampling new foods from far away lands, then our Culinary Cruise in October is for you.

Chef Wilson Alpala

A resident chef at Ecuador’s top-rated Relais & Chateaux restaurant, Zazu, Chef Alpala will be joining us aboard Origin the week of October 27-03 November 2019 on itinerary A. You can read more about our Culinary departure with Alpala in our blog from earlier this year; in the meantime continue reading to understand the value Ecoventura places on not only spoiling our guests with exquisite fare but also ensuring sustainable and responsible from farm / fishing hook to fork!

Sustainability

Ecoventura’s cuisine will without doubt redefine your expeditions of dining at sea, and we take great pleasure in introducing you to the flavours of Latin America. With a focus on sustainable, organic ingredients sourced from local island farmers, the dishes served on board our luxury yachts reflect exactly what’s freshly harvested from the islands. Whether it’s Langostino poached in citrus butter or grilled Grouper accompanied by a plantain puree, your taste buds will experience the distinct flavours of the ocean. Exploring the Galapagos Islands is hungry work – and on top of three delicious meals a day, the chefs delight in preparing delectable snacks which are served after offshore excursions – topping up those energy reserves is paramount!

Fish Unknown

On a more serious note, Oceans play a major role not just in Ecoventura’s life but also in each and every one of yours, and to help remind us of this, World Oceans Day is held on June 8th each year. A global celebration of our oceans; its purpose is to highlight their importance and inspire us to think about what we can do to protect them. In honour of #WorldOceansDay over 200 Relais & Chateaux chefs around the world celebrated marine biodiversity following the theme #fishunknown. On board Origin & Theory, our chefs prepared sustainably sourced Galapagos yellow-fin tuna with teriyaki sauce, tacu tacu and sauteéd vegetables. Please click on the video link below to hear more on this theme from our chef Estuardo Viela.

We hope we’ve whetted your appetite and look forward to welcoming you onboard the Origin & Theory by Ecoventura, so please contact us to book your unforgettable gourmet cruise.

The post Could a Galapagos Culinary Cruise be the one for you? appeared first on Ecoventura.

Last year in September 2018, the acclaimed Marine Biologist and professional naturalist Jack Grove joined Ecoventura for two special cruises on board our luxury Relais & Chateaux yacht Origin, and such was the success of these exclusive departures, Jack is set to return to the Galapagos Islands in December 2019, this time on board Origin’s sister vessel Theory. You’ll have to be quick though, as we only have a few cabins left for these departures – the dates which are as follows:

December 1st – 8th (Itinerary B) and December 8th -15th (Itinerary A) 2019

About Jack Grove

Over the past two decades Jack has spent his time travelling the world and lecturing about its Oceans. His first encounter with the Galapagos archipelago dates further back to 1977 when he moved here to serve as an associate investigator for the Ecuador’s National Fisheries Institute and research his book “The Fishes of the Galapagos”. He stayed for seven years.

What’s in it for Ecoventura Guests?

Given the exceptional depth of his experience, lucky guests accompanying Jack on these special departures will benefit from his expert insight into the unique marine life and wildlife of these islands. Jack is a keen snorkeller and loves nothing more than to share his enthusiasm for marine science, yet he also loves leading hikes and nature walks on shore. Once described by a fellow passenger as a “walking encyclopedia” guests can engage in informal chats with Jack in the evenings as well as share photography tips with him.

Which Itinerary?

As Jack joined Ecoventura on two consecutive weeks on board Origin, he experienced both Itinerary A Southern & Central route and Itinerary B – Northern & Western route and one of our guests asked “Which itinerary is better?“

“Trying to explain the differences between these two itineraries is like trying to explain the beauty of a rose or an orchid.”

Sure, there are biological and experiential differences between the two programs; Itinerary A provides more opportunities to swim and snorkel with sealions and enjoy the Galapagos’ pristine beaches, whilst guests choosing Itinerary B will enjoy more lava field hikes and encounter more tortoises (do note that guests can still do all of the above on both itineraries). But what about Jack’s thoughts?

“Bottom line; no metaphors … you cannot go wrong with either itinerary. “

Read more about the differences between the itineraries in one of our earlier BLOGS but if you’re really looking for the ultimate experience – combine two weeks and enjoy the varied landscapes and wildlife of all the islands in one truly unforgettable trip!

If you miss the opportunity to travel with us this year, then in 2020, Jack will be onboard Theory for the following weeks:

November 29th – December 6th (Itinerary B) and Dec 6th -13th (Itinerary A) 2020

PROMOTIONS: 

Confirm a year or more in advance and get 2019 rates!

Book two weeks B2B and get 5% discount off the second week

Still not convinced about which itinerary is best for you? Do as Jack suggests: ” I encourage you to take advantage of the expertise available to you from the team at Ecoventura” Get in touch with us today!

The post Join Jack Grove, World Renowned Marine Biologist, on board Theory by Ecoventura appeared first on Ecoventura.

It’s no secret that here in the Galapagos, the stars of the show are the unique and incredible flora and fauna that thrive on and around the islands – sea lions, sharks, giant tortoises, an abundant array of birdlife and many endemic plants and other animal species, to name just a few. But no trip to this wonderful part of the planet would be the same without the skill, enthusiasm and warmth of our crew members. Here, in the second of a series of posts designed to introduce you to some of our key personnel, we spend a bit of time getting to know Estuardo Vilela, chef on board the Theory.

Estuardo was born in Milagro, in South West Ecuador, and lived there with his family until his teens, when the family moved to Duran, across the Guayas River from Guayaquil. He studied in Guayaquil and it was there, in Ecuador’s second city and home to the country’s largest port, that he started out on his career as a chef.

Estuardo joined us at Ecoventura five years ago, keen to capitalise on an opportunity to expand his knowledge and professional experience working for such a high-end company.

Taking a few minutes out of his busy schedule, we sat down with Estuardo to talk to him about life on board and the challenges of producing Relais & Chateaux-worthy meals in the confines of a ship’s kitchen.

We start by asking him what drew him to Ecoventura, and how it differs from other companies operating in the Galapagos. “The difference is the talent and quality of its team, its human talent – the staff, who are always focused on providing quality and warmth and making the passengers on board feel like they are in a family atmosphere” Estuardo replies.

So what makes Galapagos cuisine unique? we ask. “The fact that we are in the Galapagos and enjoying the sea breeze and wonderful landscape is inspiring while I work on creating my next dish.”

The Galapagos has exceptional ingredients for chefs in the same way it has unique species for tourists, not that the tourists are always aware of this fact. “The cherry tomato, for example, has a unique appearance and flavor” Estuardo explains.

Ingredients for Estuardo and his team are sourced from farms based on various islands on the archipelago, ensuring produce is fresh and locally grown whilst providing a source of income for local producers.

Is it challenging cooking in a limited space on board a yacht? we wonder. Estuardo ponders the question, gazing towards an island on the horizon. “Cooking on a yacht that has a small kitchen is not a limitation, as long as there is a passion for cooking. The quality of the dish will express the dedication and effort put in to it, as well as the quality of the ingredients themselves. In addition, listening to passenger satisfaction is highly motivating for me, and helps me, and the team, to continue delivering the best of us in our dishes.”

“Many dishes have captivated me and I have never been able to choose between them” Estuardo replies, when we push him for a favourite recipe. “I do, however, love working with seafood, and combining a multitude of delicate flavours in to one dish”.

We finish by asking Estuardo where is next on his bucket list of places to visit. “One goal I have is to visit Spain. It seems like a country that has a lot of connections between cultures”.

The Ecoventura yachts Origin and Theory are the only vessels in the Galapagos that are members of Relais & Chateaux, ensuring our guests of a world-class level of food and beverage delivered by Estuardo and his team and all of us on board.

We are running a special Culinary Cruise in October with a 10% discount for the week of 27 October – 3 November: click here for more information and please contact us to book your unforgettable gourmet cruise.

Standard cruise rates are $7,850 per person – see here for more information. If you have any questions please Get in touch with us today – we look forward to welcoming you on board.

The post 60 Seconds with Estuardo Vilela – Ecoventura Chef appeared first on Ecoventura.

US Travel Writer, Kimberly Bloom, travelled to the Galapagos Islands with her family. Here, she writes about her trip giving the top handful of reasons why it should be your next family destination.

“When you decide to plan a trip to the Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the number of choices can seem daunting. There are more than 70 ships that take over 200,000 passengers through this incredible archipelago each year. However, the choice of company/ship becomes much easier when you look more closely at the options available.

After time spent researching the many alternatives, we (my 13-year-old son Ethan, my 6-year-old daughter Makenzie, and I) chose to travel with Ecoventura on their luxury expedition yacht, the Origin, for an 8-day/7-night cruise to the Southern & Central Islands (Itinerary A). It was absolutely the right choice —- truly phenomenal.

As both owner and operator of their fleet (which apparently is a dwindling situation in the Galápagos), Ecoventura can offer an unsurpassed level of service and experience. We would not change a thing about our adventure, except perhaps to stay an additional week to also experience itinerary B!!

Here are the top 10 reasons to travel the extraordinary Galápagos Islands with Ecoventura on their Origin or Theory yachts:

1. SIZE

A visit to the Galápagos Islands is a trip of a lifetime and the most enjoyable way to see what these incredible islands have to offer is on a small vessel. Ecoventura’s luxury yachts, the Origin and the Theory, take a maximum of 20 guests on each trip that they offer. Would you rather be traveling with 100 people or just 20? Travelling with such a small group creates a special, unique, and peaceful experience. No long lines when embarking/disembarking a zodiac. No difficulty hearing the guides explain the landscape and wildlife on hikes. No throngs of people waiting for meals. No fighting for a relaxing spot on the sun deck. With no more than 20 guests, your trip feels very exclusive.

2. GUIDE TO GUEST RATIO

A huge bonus of travelling with Ecoventura is that there are two expert naturalist guides for twenty passengers – one guide for each group of ten people. Small groups provide the opportunity for detailed, interactive discussions and “up close” encounters which is the best way to take in all of the amazing landscapes and wildlife in the Galápagos Islands. Importantly, you are not “assigned” to a guide for the entire trip but do hikes and activities with both guides.

3. GUIDES

Ecoventura employs absolutely top-notch guides. Their guides are passionate, enthusiastic and well-educated on all aspects of the Galápagos Islands. The detail with which our guides, Ilo and Victor, explained the history, landscape, and wildlife during each of our activities was impressive. Thorough, informative, expert overviews presented with a sense of humor!

In addition, our guides were wonderful at engaging the children. They asked them specific questions about what they were viewing, explained wildlife behavior patterns, demonstrated wildlife sounds, taught them to identify the male and females of each species, and highlighted that many of the wildlife is not found anywhere else on earth. My children left the Galápagos with a thorough understanding of the importance and fragility of these islands, the need to preserve and boost declining species, and the realization that we can each help to make a difference in these efforts.

4. ITINERARY

We chose the Central & Eastern itinerary (Itinerary A) and it was wonderful. Due to Ecoventura’s careful itinerary construction, the majority of the time it felt like we were the only people on a particular island and we saw EVERYTHING we wanted to see. I can confidently tell you that both of Ecoventura’s itineraries are awe inspiring.

5. VESSEL

Ahhhh. The yacht. The Origin is gorgeous. Who knew life on the water could be so comfortable? The yacht is well-designed, tastefully decorated, and quite spacious with spectacular ocean views throughout. The Origin features:

Beautiful wood interior, Air-conditioned cabins with comfy beds, plush towels, bathrobes/slippers, large windows with beautiful views of the ocean, and the ultimate in luxury – a rainfall shower with a view! Yes, really!! A lovely dining room with huge windows, A comfortable lounge area for briefings, cocktails, and just relaxing, 4 outside areas to enjoy the sun and the breeze: Level 1 – 6-person hot tub and comfy seating, Level 2 – a seating area in front of the bridge and tables/chairs/benches at the stern where we enjoyed delicious snacks and fresh juices every afternoon upon returning from activities, and Level 3 (my favorite) – the sun deck with tables for lunch, a bar area, an outdoor shower, hammocks and lovely chaise lounge chairs for relaxing while gazing out over the beautiful ocean or watching the sunset. Even a small but highly functional gym so you can keep up with your regular fitness routine.

The design of the Origin allowed us to enjoy the beauty of the Galápagos whether in our cabin or in the public areas of the yacht. Doesn’t a cabin with beautiful ocean views sound much more appealing than a dark, dank cabin with small potholes or no windows at all as is often found on larger ships? The yacht’s layout is wellbalanced to provide plenty of space for relaxing quietly or spending social time with family and new-found friends while taking in the spectacular views.

6. CREW

What makes the difference between a “good” and a “great” Galápagos trip? I believe it is two things: your guides and your yacht’s crew. An experienced and friendly crew is one of the most important aspects of a great Galápagos adventure. Ecoventura has one of the most experienced crews in the Galápagos. They carefully choose each and every member of their crew and many have been working with the company since its inception. The crew is knowledgeable, professional, dedicated and friendly. I was impressed with their consistent attention to detail and effort to create a very personalized experience.

Just a few examples: Captain Gerardo provided a tour of the bridge to my children and allowed them to watch him command the ship as we left the dock for the first time. Jairo remembered my preference for coffee or tea in the morning and that I loved a Pisco Sour in the evening. Concierge Daniela ensured all of our needs were met and even took the time to play Uno with the children. Victor took group photos on every excursion. Ilo made a video of our snorkeling adventures. Most impressively, when Makenzie wasn’t feeling well and wanted a banana, they sent a Zodiac to another ship to get one! From our very first “on board” briefing, the crew talked about being our family for the week and they truly were.

7. RELAIS AND CHATEAUX

Have you ever stayed in a Relais & Chateaux hotel? It is the ultimate in luxury, service, and exquisite cuisine. As such, I was quite impressed to learn that Ecoventura’s yachts, The Origin and Theory, are the first boats to receive this prestigious designation. Relais & Chateaux, a 65-year-old association of more than 560 landmark hotels and 100 restaurants (and now yachts) in 60 countries on five continents, applies it’s difficult-to-obtain stamp of approval on only those properties that are truly unique, have luxurious facilities, and meet strict admission standards for features and service. What does the Relais & Chateaux designation for the Origin and Theory mean to you? It means that you can count on a truly exclusive experience, the highest standards and the best service, facilities, and cuisine for your Galápagos adventure.

The Origin offers delicious, fresh, locally inspired gourmet cuisine, appetizing hors d’oeuvres and freshly squeezed juices after excursions, afternoon tea with delectable pastries, chocolates every night in your cabin, a 24-hour snack, coffee and tea bar, and a generous open bar policy (to name just a few of the delights!). What better way to experience the pristine Galápagos? Each day you explore all that this wildlife paradise has to offer via hikes, zodiac or glass bottom boat tours, kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkeling and come back to the comfort of a prestigious 5-star hotel with stunning views.

8. ACTIVITIES

Each night, one (or both) of our guides would hold a “briefing” in the lounge area. This became a favorite time for the guests. We would discuss the highlights of our day, share our favorite “moments”, review photos/videos the guides had taken of our adventures, and talk about the schedule for the next day. Our guides would tell us about where we would be landing, the length of the activity, what to expect, what to wear, and what to bring along. Each day was busy with typically two hikes, and the option (depending on the location) of one or two snorkel sessions, kayaking, paddle boarding or a glass-bottom boat tour. The snorkeling gear and wetsuits that Ecoventura provided were high quality and available in all sizes – even a perfect fit for a 6-year-old!

A bonus of traveling with Ecoventura is that they recognize the wide range of guest abilities and can tailor the options based on the group of guests. If a hike is too long or strenuous for a particular guest, they offer an alternative — perhaps a shorter or less steep hike. If you don’t snorkel and have no desire to do so? Perhaps a zodiac tour. No desire to kayak or paddle board? Perhaps glass bottom boat tour. This approach is particularly desirable for multi-generational families. Everyone gets to experience the beauty of the Galápagos, but in a way that best fits with their desires and abilities. Our yacht had two families travelling with three generations, ranging in age from 12 to 85-years-old and everyone raved about their experience aboard the Origin.

In addition to our daily nature excursions, there were often fun activities for the children mid-day while we motored from our morning to our afternoon location. Examples include: a ceviche demonstration, ice cream sundae creation, and pizza making. One evening after dinner, we were surprised with a party! Ilo and the crew sang some original songs, there was a surprise pirate visit and all the guests and crew were enticed to dance! From a 6-year-old to an 85-year-old on the dance floor!

9. ECO-FRIENDLY

An important consideration in selecting our Galápagos adventure was finding a company with integrity and ecofriendly practices. I was happy to learn that family-owned Ecoventura, led by owner Santiago Dunn, has been a pioneer in environmental efforts in the Galápagos as well as in adopting sustainable practices.

10. SAFETY

A company with an excellent safety record was of the utmost importance to me when I was planning our Galápagos trip. I was travelling with a 6-year-old. How could I feel comfortable and be able to relax on this amazing vacation if I wasn’t confident from a safety perspective for 8 days on the water? I was pleased and relieved to find that Ecoventura has an exceptional safety record. I felt even more confident when our first briefing on board the Origin was focused on safety guidelines and safety procedures in the event of an emergency. Each cabin was equipped with Orange Type I Offshore Life Jackets. We were required to wear life vests on all zodiac transports and tours, glass bottom boat rides, and kayak and paddle board expeditions (no exceptions!). We were instructed on how to properly embark and disembark from the zodiac to the yacht and to the shore (for both wet and dry landings) and vice versa. There was always one crew member on the zodiac and one crew member on the yacht or shore helping everyone with the boarding and disembarking process. The crew always had an eye on everyone, particularly the children, and made me feel extremely comfortable. My concerns about being with a 6-year-old on the ocean quickly dissipated once I saw the crew in action.

Honestly, there are more than 10 reasons to choose Ecoventura for your Galápagos adventure which you will discover if you decide to choose them for your trip of a lifetime. We love to travel and have enjoyed a number of wonderful vacation adventures. I can honestly say that our week in the Galápagos with Ecoventura has been our best vacation yet. We are thrilled we chose this impressive company and their gorgeous yacht, the Origin, to explore the indescribable beauty of the Galápagos. Our trip was an awe-inspiring, “closer-to-nature and wildlife than you can imagine” adventure. I’m not sure how we will ever top this vacation. Unless, of course, we return for a week on the Origin or Theory for Itinerary B!!!! My children have been asking to return since the day we left! I think that says it all.”

The post “Top 10 Reasons to Choose Ecoventura for your Family Trip” by Kimberly Bloom appeared first on Ecoventura.