What a special year 2018 was for us at Ecoventura and those joining us on our Galapagos cruise departures and adventures. In addition to welcoming guests aboard our luxury vessels for once-in-a-lifetime cruises in and around this chain of storied islands, we began hosting specialty departures and collaborated on numerous sustainability projects alongside the Charles Darwin Foundation.
Though it may be hard to imagine, we’re even more excited about 2019. The new year will bring with it the same programs our guests have come to know and love – from our specialty Yoga (health and Wellness) departures to photography and culinary departures – and we will witness the launch of MV Theory, the sister vessel to the MV Origin.
If exploring the Galapagos Islands with us in the New Year sounds like something for you, read for on ways in which you can come aboard in 2019 (and beyond)!
Guest Highlights from 2018
Some of our favorite guests from 2018 included the folks at Laid Back Trip, who joined us on an island itinerary A that began with viewing sea lion colonies on the rocks of San Cristobal, traversing the ancient, unpopulated terrain of Espanola, and ending among the famous tortoises of Santa Cruz. Of course, we also made time for some deep-water snorkeling near Santiago Island, and no cruise to the Galapagos would be complete without a hike to Bartolome Island viewpoint – arguably the most photographed vista in the islands.
“One of the neatest things I experienced was the captain inviting us to the bridge to witness how he navigated the ship out of a volcanic crater on Genovesa in the pitch dark. That was a first for me and truly memorable.”
– MV Origin Traveler Allie Avernie Almario, Oct 18’, via Facebook
Additionally, our friends at Travel Leap came away from their Galapagos experience so inspired, it led them to quote Oliver Wendell Holmes! From spotting blue whales in Tagus Cove to exploring pristine islands on foot with our expert naturalists, ecology was a foremost highlight. To cap off one evening, guests enjoyed locally sourced lobsters prepared by our five-star staff.
“Fabulous trip with (naturalist guides) Pepe and Fabrizio. Excellent food, company, and stunning wildlife. Trip of a lifetime, thanks guys!”
– MV Letty Traveler Brad Cheek, Aug 18’, via Facebook
When Sarah and Nathan of Exploring Kiwis joined us, they did so with the mantra go big or go home in mind. Aboard the MV Origin with two naturalists and a full-time staff for only 14 guests, the couple was delighted to encounter Galapagos wildlife possessing no natural fear of humans, allowing them to get much closer to various species than they imaged.
“Regardless of which itinerary you choose…(MV Origin) is a boat that manages to offer the very best in luxury travel, adventure, and fun, whilst attracting a great bunch of people keen to explore together.”
– Sarah, MV Origin Traveler, June 18’, via Exploring Kiwis blog
Then came the cuisine. Sarah reported that everything on the menu – whether authentic Ecuadorian or exquisite fare from around the globe – sounded so tantalizing, she had difficulty choosing what to eat. Don’t believe her? She provided a sample from one night of appetizer and main dishes:
Appetizers
- Ecuadorian “Encebollado” with fresh sliced tuna, onions, yuca chips, corn, tomato, and cilantro
- Crab croquettes served with kiwi chutney and lemon confit
- Fresh mushroom risotto with goat cheese and truffle oil
- Salmon carpaccio, cucumber, avocado, and tomatoes drizzled with a creamy dressing
Main Dishes
- Grilled octopus Basque-style served with roasted peppers and sautéed potatoes
- Tournedos of beef in mustard sauce and mashed potatoes with garlic confit and glazed carrots
- Grilled langostino in garlic aioli, vegetables pappardelle, and fresh basil salad
- Demi–cut beef fillet, house style potatoes, asparagus, and tamarind chimichurri
- Grilled duck with pears in red wine balsamic reduction and pumpkin puree
Introducing the MV Theory in 2019
Certainly one of our crowning achievements of 2019 will be the completion of our newest vessel, MV Theory, sister to our flagship MV Origin. Slated for her maiden voyage on March 3, 2019, Theory will combine stylish décor, world-class service, and luxurious amenities – all reinforced by naval steel, built for elite cruise speed with comfort, and designed to minimize environmental impact.
Specifications
- Year Built – 2018
- Overall Length – 142 feet/43.5 meters
- Beam – 27.5 feet/8.5 meters
- Cruising Speed – 12-14 knots
- Capacity – 20 guests
- Crew – 13 including two naturalists
We were proud to have both luxury expedition yachts featured in a recent article by Traveler Confidential blogger KJ Matthews in their Destinations feature. Learn more about the MV Theory and Ecoventura’s mission!
Come Aboard in 2019
If you’re interested in joining us this year or next, we encourage you to take advantage of our Early Bird Discount on select Fall departure dates. You can Save 10% on the Origin & Theory (and 5% on the Letty) when confirmed 180 days prior to departure!
See here for a complete breakdown of special offers.
Plan Ahead – Book Now for 2020
It’s never too early to book your Galapagos adventure! Our cruises book up fast, so we encourage guests to plan their Galapagos getaway as early as possible. Please check out our newly released 2020 cruise rates. Please contact us for more information on cruise rates, discounts, and departure dates. We look forward to welcoming you to the islands.
The post Fulfill Your New Year’s Resolution and Plan a Galapagos Cruise in 2019 appeared first on Ecoventura.