Since the onset of tourism in Ecuador’s Galápagos Islands in the 1970’s, small cruise ships have reigned as the classic mode for touring the unique archipelago. Nowadays, however, new and sophisticated hotels are making their debut as a worthy addition to the cruise experience. Galápagos travelers can now enjoy a land-based stay or a combination of cruise and hotel for the best of both worlds.
2013 will mark the opening of the newest addition to premier eco-luxury lodges on the island of Santa Cruz – Pikaia Lodge. A small and secluded property nestled in a giant tortoise reserve and near the island’s best beaches, Pikaia is poised attract those seeking an ultimate land-based experience. Hotels of every category will open this year in response to the growing popularity of land-based Galápagos exploration.
Projection of the new Pikaia Lodge, scheduled to open in 2013
This trend raises the question of which experience – cruise ship or land-based – to choose. Both options have their pros and cons, and in the end it comes down to each traveler’s style, preferences and needs. Here are some arguments for combining both options for a well-rounded Galápagos adventure:
The Galápagos cruise ship experience
Pros
The big picture. A cruise is the best way to get a big-picture panorama of the archipelago. Cruises have unique access to remote visitor sites on uninhabited islands with special wildlife viewing opportunities, such as Fernandina in the far west.
Time-efficient. Cruises are best for time budgeting. Ships will be navigating at night, meaning fewer daylight hours are spent in transit.
Convenient. As with cruising in general, the planning work is done. The itinerary is set. Meals are taken care of. Travelers only have to unpack and pack the main suitcase once. Added bonus: constant service. Most cruises have a cruise director and 24/7 service staff on board.
Cons
Life at sea. Although larger ships and premier catamarans have come a long way in stabilization, a boat navigating the open sea is still a boat. It will rock. This is an important factor for anyone who is sensitive to motion sickness.
Unlikely internet. A few upscale vessels, such as La Pinta and Explorer II, offer internet at additional cost, but most do not. For those who need to be reachable or who get uncomfortable if they aren’t, this could become a source of stress.
Confinement. Even on the most luxurious cruise options with wide cabins and plenty of deck space, inexperienced cruise passengers are subject to “cabin fever,” especially for longer cruises of 8 days or more. Restless kids faced with ample downtime on board between site visits are also prone to cabin fever.
Southwind’s Picks for Cruise Ships
Southwind works with a selection of only the foremost vessels operating in the Galápagos Islands. Criteria for choosing these vessels include safety, comfort, quality of guides and service, and best itineraries.
M/C Cormorant
1) Small vessel: M/C Cormorant
The newly debuted Cormorant incorporates the very best of Galápagos Catamaran design. The modern and ample accommodation includes Jacuzzi, huge sun deck and a private balcony for each of the spacious staterooms. With a capacity of 16 passengers, the vessel consists of 6 double or twin cabins and 2 double suites.
See all Southwind small vessels
M/Y La Pinta
2) Mid-sized vessel: M/Y La Pinta
As one of the islands’ finest vessels, La Pinta accommodates 48 passengers in luxurious comfort, and is an ideal size for cruising the waters of the Galápagos. Elegant public areas feature a stylish and modern atmosphere, with plenty of natural light and a nautical touch.
See all Southwind mid-sized vessels
Silver Galapagos
3) Large vessel: Silver Galapagos
Meet the newest ship in Silversea’s Expedition Fleet: the 100-guest Silver Galapagos. With sleek lines and a proven skill for navigating the waterways throughout the Galápagos Islands, she is the reincarnation of Explorer II, Galapagos’ first all-suite vessel.
See all Southwind large vessels
The Hotel-based Galápagos Experience
Pros
Flexibility of dates and schedule. Cruises have fixed departure dates that may not fit within your specific vacation window. Hotels, on the other hand, are more accommodating to rigid date ranges. Also, hotel excursions aren’t as tied to the strict visitor site schedules as cruise ships, so itineraries are less regimented.
Inland activities. Most cruise itineraries are limited to coastal visitor sites, which can exclude inland highlights like highlands of Santa Cruz, which is where the giant tortoises are found in the wild. Staying on land provides more activity options, such as scuba, kayak, bicycle riding, hiking a volcano rim, shopping, or just relaxing and taking a leisurely walk.
More chances to meet local people. Unlike the fixed schedules of a cruise, a hotel-based stay on Santa Cruz Island gives you the option of spending more time on shore and gaining a better idea of the human side of the Galápagos.
Day excursions by yacht. Land-based travelers will get a sample of “life at sea” and reach nearby visitor sites via small yacht (16-20 passengers), with opportunities for wildlife viewing, snorkeling, nature walks, and even scuba diving.
Cons
More transit time. Land-based travelers spend more daylight hours in transit, either by land vehicle or yacht. Plus, multiple hotels could mean extra check-in, check-out, and bag packing.
Less ground covered. Land-based travelers will probably be reaching nearby visitor sites via yacht, which means a choppier ride than cruise ships. Day trips by yacht simply can’t reach the farthest-flung uninhabited visitor sites and their wildlife viewing opportunities.
Southwind’s Picks for Hotel Stays on Santa Cruz Island:
Galapagos Safari Camp
1) Galapagos Safari Camp
The fanciful and exclusive Galápagos Safari Camp wins us over with every visit. A small luxury tented camp in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, its whimsy suits the imaginings of kids and adults alike. With its own on-site farm, expansive views, an infinity pool, and nearby reserves of giant tortoises in the wild, everyone in the family will find their niche.
Finch Bay Eco Hotel
2) Finch Bay
Finch Bay is the only hotel in Puerto Ayora town located on a white sand beach. Take a sea kayak out for a paddle, go diving, hiking, birdwatching or simply relax in a hammock on your veranda. Amenities include a pool, jacuzzi, open air bar, wireless internet, restaurant serving up a blend of seafood and international cuisine and AC in the rooms.
Royal Palm
3) Royal Palm
The Royal Palm is a unique secluded hideaway nestled in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the heart of the Galápagos. Exclusive, spacious, and tastefully designed, the Royal Palm was built to complement this natural paradise. Royal Palm is the established leader in luxury suites.
The Galápagos Islands, Southwind-style
Most travelers only make it to the Galápagos Islands once in a lifetime, so the travel consultants at Southwind Adventures want to make sure it’s the fullest, most well-rounded trip possible. We recommend a custom trip to the Galápagos, combining a 4 to 5 day cruise itinerary with 2 or 3 nights in a hotel on Santa Cruz Island. Everyone’s idea of the perfect trip is different, so we’ll tailor your itinerary to fit your group.