Archipel I

Wondrous, one-of-a-kind wildlife. White-sand beaches. Warm, welcoming waters. These descriptions only begin your long list of reasons for wanting to visit the Galapagos Islands.

You could add the picturesque volcanoes. Or being able to cruise from one island paradise to another, each a new Eden. Then, you could figure in an engagement with history, noting Charles Darwin, whose visit to the Galapagos in 1835 resulted in his becoming an evolution-theory pioneer. The rich biodiversity he saw there is still evident today.

The why part of going to the Galapagos Islands, of course, could go on and on, but the how component can be shortly settled. Known as “the pioneers of the Galapagos”—much like Charles Darwin himself—the Archipel I and its sister ship, the Archipel II, will ferry you through this fantastical archipelago in a stable and comfortable style.

Carrying only 16 guests, each of these 88-foot-long, motor catamarans offers eight, bright cabins; all on the main deck above the waterline. Two of the rooms have a double bed, and six have two twin beds. Every cabin has air-conditioning, two windows that open to the sea, private facilities, hot and cold water, and sizable storage space.

To accommodate your pioneering spirit, traveling on the Archipel I or the Archipel II allows you to select an itinerary from three options; or combine them to spend four, five or eight nights aboard. Every day, you’ll anchor at two, carefully chosen sites and have the opportunity to participate in at least two excursions with your English-speaking, Ecuadorian guides. For your marine explorations, snorkeling gear will be provided, and kayaks are carried onboard.
 
When not out investigating the islands or their waters, you can relax on the catamaran. Head up to the top deck to unwind or doze in the sun, or to just sit back and recharge in the shade. The ship’s wide decks mean that you’ll find plenty of quiet spots. Then, enjoy a drink in the bar while chatting with your fellow adventurers, leaf through a book in the lounge, pop in a DVD or play board games. At night, the top deck becomes your stargazing spot.

There are a multitude of reasons for visiting the Galapagos. Traveling on the stable, tried-and-true “pioneers of Galapagos”—the Archipel I or the Archipel II—are two more that should top your list.

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