Origin Galapagos Cruise

A Galapagos Cruise on board the Origin

The Origin is one of the newest boats in the Galapagos cruise fleet. Built in 2016, she has been designed to be as environmentally conscious as possible, and was constructed using zero-emissions materials. Her operators are no strangers to sustainability - they were the first to be awarded the flagship SmartVoyager environmental certification, which they have held since 2000.

However, the Origin has no hint of the austerity sometimes associated with environmentally friendly vessels, and your amazing voyage of discovery around the Galapagos will also be one of... Click here to read more Click here to read Less The Origin is one of the newest boats in the Galapagos cruise fleet. Built in 2016, she has been designed to be as environmentally conscious as possible, and was constructed using zero-emissions materials. Her operators are no strangers to sustainability - they were the first to be awarded the flagship SmartVoyager environmental certification, which they have held since 2000.

However, the Origin has no hint of the austerity sometimes associated with environmentally friendly vessels, and your amazing voyage of discovery around the Galapagos will also be one of luxury.

Stunning accommodation
There are ten luxury staterooms on the Origin, and all feature large panoramic windows for unparalleled views. Sumptuous touches included the finest linens, memory foam and soft pillows to suit all tastes, and twin beds that easily convert to a single King bed.

Measuring a generous 145 sq ft, each cabin has individual climate control, and ample closet space, including a personal safe. The en-suite luxury bathrooms feature plush towels and bathrobes with slippers, and a delightful "rainfall" shower with its own ocean view! A hair dryer and luxury range of biodegradable cosmetics are also provided.

Unique in the fleet, every stateroom on the Origin features an Apple TV with a pre-loaded movie selection, a universal docking station for your mobile devices, and a personal Espresso machine and tea kettle.

Stunning amenities
As befits a luxury experience, the public areas of the Origin are no less splendid. Unlike other vessels of her size, the Origin has its own dedicated fitness room with cardio equipment, weights and yoga mats.

There are several areas perfect for lounging, with comfortable seats and cozy decor. There is a comfortable library filled with books about the Galapagos, and about Charles Darwin - whose work "On the Origin of Species" inspired the vessel's name.

Outdoor accommodation is wonderful, and includes a large sun deck with chaise lounges, daybeds, chairs and hammocks, a shower, wet bar, BBQ and tables for al fresco dining.

The food is stunning, and consists of international cuisine as well as gourmet Ecuadorian and Peruvian specialties. The chefs are also pleased to give cooking demonstrations on any of their recipes! Complimentary house wines and beers are poured during dinner, and there is a generous open bar policy excluding premium brands. Origin has raised the bar for what "all-inclusive" means in a Galapagos cruise.

Stunning wildlife itineraries
The Origin operates two alternating 8 day/7 night itineraries. These can be combined into one absolutely amazing 15 day trip with no repeated excursions - the ultimate exploration of the Galapagos.

One itinerary features the southern and central islands, the other visits the northern and western islands. The Origin carries two highly qualified, bilingual naturalist guides, and her maximum of 20 guests are split between them, meaning you enjoy much lower guest-to-guide ratio than almost every other boat in the fleet. As well as visits to the stunning islands and their unique habitats and wildlife, guides will lead you in other activities including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding - all included with your cruise.

Our comment
Stunning. We used that word a lot, but it's the only one we think justifies a cruise on the Origin. The ship is amazing, the crew go out of their way to ensure your happiness, the food is first class, and the encounters with Galapagos wildlife you will have will make memories that last a lifetime. For those who are conscious of their environmental impact, the Origin is among the greenest vessels in the Galapagos fleet, and yet she's also among the most luxurious. She proves that sustainable tourism can still be luxurious. Click here to read more Click here to read Less