Tip Top IV Galápagos Cruise+Flights

Islander

\- Twin hulls for superb stability \- Medical officer on board \- Superb naturalist guides and expedition equipment \- Fantastic social spaces A purpose-built expedition ship, Islander is truly worthy of wearing the "National Geographic" name. With big ship facilities like a doctor's office and email station, yet the intimacy provided by only 24 cabins, you get the best of both worlds from a Galápagos cruise on National Geographic Islander. **A range of comfortable accommodation** National Geographic Islander was built as a naturalist expedition ship, but not at the expense of your comfort! With five classes of cabins to choose from, there's something for everyone on this [Galápagos islands](https://www.galapatours.com/en/island) cruise. All of her cabins feature two full-size single beds that can be converted to generous queen-size doubles if you prefer. For families, or those traveling as a group, there are two cabins that can sleep a third person. Every accommodation enjoys at least one standard window with ocean views, and some offer an enclosed private balcony area. The largest cabins on the upper deck provide superb wrap-around windows offering you unrivalled vistas as you cruise the Galápagos islands. Every room features a private bathroom with a shower, individual climate control, power sockets, and a desk. The decor is classic, with plenty of beautiful natural wood, and the walls feature unique wildlife photography of the Galápagos from National Geographic's stunning photo libraries. **Social spaces in which to relax and discover** Despite being "built for adventure", National Geographic Islander offers high levels of comfort while you are on board between excursions. You'll find that you will bond quickly with your like-minded fellow guests thanks to her large dining room, which accommodates everyone in a single sitting. You will swap tales of your Galápagos discoveries while enjoying the freshest local and international cuisine prepared by the on board chefs. Breakfast and lunch are usually buffet-style, with dinners being served to you. There's no formality on National Geographic Islander, and guests freely mingle. You'll often be joined for dinner by your naturalist guides, giving you an even deeper insight into the Galápagos as you enjoy this relaxed ambiance. The ship's large and comfortable lounge bar quickly becomes the social hub of your trip, and this is where you'll gather daily for your briefing and the National Geographic tradition known as "Recap". There's plenty of comfortable seating here for relaxing, reading, or just watching the world outside the panoramic windows. If you want some quiet time to yourself, why not select a book from the well-stocked and cosy library? Or perhaps head out to the decks and enjoy one of the hammocks that are rigged for guests - what could be better than basking in the Galápagos warmth like a [marine iguana](https://www.galapatours.com/animals/galapagos-marine-iguana) while the ship gently sways beneath you? For an even more indulgent experience, why not book the ship's wellness specialist to give you a relaxing - or invigorating - treatment in the on board spa? You can also enjoy a guided stretching session on the open decks every morning. **Extras that help you really explore Galápagos** Given all the creature comforts that Islander offers you may forget that she is a National Geographic Galápagos expedition ship. But exploration and discovery are at the heart of what she offers. Her naturalist guides are among the most experienced in the islands, and she carries four zodiacs (known locally as "pangas") which means the whole ship's company can be transported to excursions at once, eliminating waiting times on board, and increasing your time on the Galápagos islands themselves. As well as pangas, National Geographic Islander carries 8 sea kayaks (a mix of singles and doubles) for guests to use. These offer a unique way to explore shallow inlets and mangroves, as well as to enjoy an "up close and personal" ocean experience. You will also be issued with your own snorkel gear for use during your cruise, including 3mm "shorty" wetsuit, allowing you to spend longer in the water with the amazing Galápagos wildlife, such as [Galápagos sea lions](https://www.galapatours.com/animals/galapagos-sea-lion), [green turtles](https://www.galapatours.com/animals/galapagos-green-sea-turtle), and [Galápagos penguins](https://www.galapatours.com/animals/galapagos-penguin). Other unique facilities include a high definition underwater camera and a video microscope - both of which are used to great effect by the ship's naturalist experts to enhance your understanding of the flora and fauna of Galápagos. **Our Comments** There is no bigger name in natural history than "National Geographic", and we love the focus that this cruise puts on giving you a deep and rich understanding of the Galápagos islands and its wildlife and landscapes. Complimentary full snorkel gear, sea kayaks, and even a video microscope will bring you closer to Galápagos than other cruises. When you add to this the luxurious cabins, "big ship facilities", and the superb food and attentive crew, this Galápagos cruise really does offer it all.

Cachalote Explorer

We love the concept of Cachalote Explorer! Take a rugged, stable and strong Canadian fishing boat, bring it to Galápagos, spend a fortune on a bespoke conversion, and and the end result is a stunning new first-class addition to the fleet, launching for summer 2018. - A unique conversion for Galápagos - Spacious cabins, best-in-class - Excellent stability, built for Canadian seas - Choice of 6-, 8-, or 15-day itineraries Superb, brand-new accommodation Cachalote Explorer has some of the most innovative and beautiful bedrooms we've seen in a boat of this class in Galápagos to date. The design and finish of her internal spaces has to be seen to be believed. It's almost a miracle that this was a working fishing boat. Her cabins are beautifully decorated, with modern design, furniture and fittings. Her private en-suite bathrooms feature beautiful "floating" washbasins, exquisite wood panelling, and superb showers with state-of-the-art fittings. She offers a choice of cabins with double beds, twins, and bunks to give you a wide selection. Each cabin features traditional portholes and full airconditioning, and you'll enjoy more space than many of the purpose-built ships of this class in the Galápagos cruise fleet! Communal areas are equally generous, and with a maximum of only 16 guests onboard there's a real feeling of space, particularly in the saloon which is almost the full width of the ship. This is also where you eat with your fellow adventurers, enjoying excellent meals from the ship's head chef who delights in showing you local, regional and international delicacies using the best Galápagos ingredients. There's a lot of outside space on the Cachalote Explorer, which means it's easy to find a quiet spot to enjoy some quiet downtime, or quietly sip a drink as the stars come out. There is an open upper deck for soaking up the equatorial sun, as well as a shaded main aft deck if you want to keep your cool. There's also a forward viewing deck at the bow - perfect for spotting whales and dolphins as you cruise. See the best of Galápagos As well as the careful thought that went into the design of her refit no less care has been taken in designing her Galápagos itineraries. Cachalote Explorer offers two different 7-night itineraries and 2 different 5-night itineraries. This means that however long you have to spend in the Galápagos, you can enjoy a superb wildlife experience. There is even the option to combine the 2 longer itineraries into one remarkable 14-night/15 day Galápagos trip of a lifetime. On a vessel with this much space and with only 16 guests maximum, a two-week trip is as comfortable and relaxing as one. Because she is only 88ft long, Cachalote Explorer can weigh anchor in smaller, more select coves and inlets than other larger boats in her class. You can choose from her "Tower" and "Fernandina" itineraries - the former concentrates on central, northern and southern islands, while the latter has a focus on the west and central Galápagos islands. If you need help to choose which is right for you, don't hesitate to speak to one of our expert travel advisors! Our comments We love the uniqueness of Cachalote Explorer. Her former life as a fishing boat means she was the perfect blank canvass to turn into a spacious, modern and beautiful first-class Galápagos cruise ship. We think it's lovely that her designers left the crane in place on the rear deck as a reminder of her heritage. As well as her remarkable space and brand new interiors, we're really impressed with the design of her itineraries, and if you have the time to take it, we can thoroughly recommend her 15-day combined trip. Truly a Galápagos cruise of a lifetime!

Galaxy

- Smart Voyager accredited; - Single staterooms available; - Large sundeck with wonderful views; - A first class experience with a relaxed ambiance. This traditional, single-hull motor yacht has been beautifully designed to offer the most relaxing cruise experience in first class surroundings. Built in 2007, Galaxy has modern features and fittings with a sumptuous hand-crafted decor with a traditional flavour. Although capable of carrying 19 passengers, we choose to limit numbers to 16 - keeping your journey aboard Galaxy more intimate and personal than a larger vessel can provide. Stellar comfort Galaxy’s 7 staterooms and 2 single cabins provide light and airy accommodation, all with ocean views and private en suite bathrooms. Tasteful neutral decor creates a soothing ambiance in which to relax and sleep before waking refreshed for the new day’s excursions. Spread across all 3 decks, every stateroom is air conditioned and includes thoughtful extras like hair dryer, internal telephone, and personal safe. Luxurious towels and quality bed linens add the finishing touches to these delightful bedrooms. Wonderful views, wonderful ambiance The outside communal areas take Galaxy above others in her class. The large and beautiful wooden decks provide ample room to find a cosy corner. Sofas and loungers mean comfort is never far away. The upper sun deck has both welcoming shade and open skies - perfect for soaking in the sun or gazing at the stars. Inside, the lounge with flatscreen tv, sound system and a library has amazing panoramic windows providing a constantly changing view of the Galápagos. Rich, sumptuous sofas let you relax totally whilst you simply enjoy being on board. Dining on Galaxy is an experience in itself, and the buffet service in the elegant dining room allows you to sample the best of local and international cuisine in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. With 10 staff to 16 passengers including a bilingual naturalist guide, you can be assured of excellent levels of service and attention. Our bartender has a particular way with cocktails, so be sure to take advantage of his skills. Luxury with responsibility Galaxy is one of the few boats in her class to be awarded the Smart Voyager Certification. This prestigious accreditation is awarded in recognition of operating practices that reduce negative environmental impact of tourism in the Galápagos Islands. Galaxy has demonstrated her excellence in conservation of ecosystems, decreased risk of introduction of non-native species, continuing staff training programs, exemplary Quality Management systems and the best practices in waste management and security. Our Comments We love the relaxed yet first-class atmosphere on board Galaxy - don’t forget to try a signature cocktail. She has some of the airiest staterooms in her class and we like that fact that she offers single accommodation. We’re always impressed with the friendly and attentive welcome we receive from her crew. We wholeheartedly support Galaxy’s drive for sustainability and we congratulate her on the award of Smart Voyager Certification.

Grand Queen Beatriz

\- Brand new in 2018  \- Great choice of itineraries \- 4 suites with ocean balconies \- Jacuzzi The "Grand Queen Beatriz" is one of the newest First Class yachts in the Galápagos cruise fleet. She’s over 135 ft long and 30 ft wide, yet only takes a maximum of 16 passengers. This means there’s a real sense of space on Beatriz, and it’s easy to slip away and find a quiet corner to just immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Galápagos as you sail. With cutting edge technology and stunning design, Grand Queen Beatriz offers a great mix of luxury, safety and wonderful wildlife experiences. **Suite or cabin?** We love the fact that Grand Queen Beatriz has been designed with four suites on board, rather than the usual one. This means it’s more likely that you will be able to book one of these beautiful rooms than on other yachts. Even though there are four suites, there’s no compromise on luxury here. Each suite enjoys its own private balcony overlooking the ocean. With 270 square feet of space and stunning contemporary decor, these suites are beautiful. En suite bathrooms are beautifully fitted out with walk-in rainfall showers and crisp, modern fittings. With a choice of queen beds or twins, each suite has a beautiful picture window that makes it the perfect place to wake up each morning. Her standard cabins are available with twin beds or queen bed, and although just as beautiful as the suites, they don’t feature a balcony. They do feature panoramic windows and en suite facilities. All rooms are fully air-conditioned for your comfort and all feature 110v outlets that accept North American plugs. **Relax inside or out?** Communal areas on Grand Queen Beatriz are decorated modern design and feature luxurious touches. The main saloon has a feature leather sofa with seating for 10, as well as further chairs around the 50” TV. Crisp whites and creams are offset by the gorgeous polished teak floors and stylish accessories. Everywhere is flooded with light thanks to panoramic windows that run the length of the room. This theme of light continues into the dining area. Picture windows again bring the islands inside, and the semi-formal table layout makes sharing your experiences with like-minded guests a delight. The yacht’s chefs delight in providing the highest quality meals prepared with local, sustainable produce. You will enjoy a variety of local and international dishes, and at least once per trip, you will enjoy a selection of grilled specialties served in the outside dining area on the upper sun terrace. On the other side of the sun terrace you’ll find the jacuzzi and an outside bar - the perfect combination for relaxing in the evening after your day’s excursions. There’s plenty of shade and areas of full sun, meaning you can always find the perfect spot. Outside on the main deck is a large communal sofa - another great place for relaxing in the shade. There’s also a boat deck, making embarking and disembarking for your excursions easy. **See more of the Galápagos** Grand Queen Beatriz offers an impressive range of itineraries, offering a variety of 4-, 5- and 8-day options. You can also combine them to provide longer trips and see more of the islands. Speak to one of our Galápagos cruise experts today about connecting itineraries on Grand Queen Beatriz. As well as a great range of visitor points and wildlife encounters you will learn a lot about the Galápagos from your naturalist guide. Approved by the National Park and fully bilingual, the Grand Queen Beatriz guides are among the best in the fleet. With only 16 passengers being accommodated you’re assured of a very intimate experience, and your guide will make sure all your questions are answered, and that everyone enjoys remarkable wildlife experiences. **Our thoughts** This brand new ship is lovely. We particularly appreciate that she carries not only snorkel equipment for guests to use, but also complimentary wetsuits if required - most others in her class make this a paid extra. The crew have been receiving rave reviews, and already after only a few months in operation are looking like one of the best in the fleet. We love the modern decor here, it’s just clean and crisp and light. This is a lovely boat, and with her choice of itineraries, you will not go wrong if you’re looking for a first class Galápagos experience in every sense of the phrase.