The Galapagos Islands, in the Pacific Ocean, are well known as one of the premier destinations for wildlife-viewing. The archipelago rests about 550 miles off the coast of Ecuador and is comprised of 21 islands in total and covers roughly 3,000 square miles. This magnificent haven of nature was one of the first sites to be designated a Natural World Heritage Site. And for travelers who wish to fully experience the true majesty of Galapagos, the only choice is a cruise aboard the Silversea’s Silver Galapagos.
Meet the Vessel
Although the Galapagos Islands are clearly the main attraction, the Silver Galapagos adds her own flair and beauty to each guest’s elegant adventure. This all-suite ship is home to 75 crew members who are dedicating to catering to all of the needs and desires of the 100 passengers on board. Guests will enjoy informative lectures, shore excursions, and Zodiac landings during the day and then return to the ship to enjoy fine dining and a relaxing evening in the piano bar.
The Excursions
The excursion opportunities are as varied as the region itself. Guests are invited to snorkel with sea lions and hike the lava tunnels of the islands. Because the Silver Galapagos is a small vessel compared to many of the behemoths of other cruise lines, passengers are whisked right to the edge of some of the smallest and most remote islands in the area. There, guests can observe nature in all of its untouched splendor. During an outing, guests could be enthralled as they watch elephant bulls challenging each other to establish dominance while another adventure might include a front row seat to witness the courtship of the Blue-footed Booby. Certified divers will experience a section of the world which has only been revealed to a very small segment of the population. Darwin’s Arch is home to manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles and even an occasional whale shark. But the big draw for this dive site is the shark population. Hammerheads, silky sharks, blacktips and Galapagos shark sightings are all plentiful and at a depth of only about 30 feet.
Truly All-Inclusive
While on board, passengers will enjoy the highest level of service imaginable. There is butler service for each cabin to assist with everything from breakfast in your suite to concierge services. Beverages including wine, spirits, specialty coffees, juice, soda and more are complimentary throughout the ship as well as a well-stocked mini-bar in each cabin. And the dining on the Silver Galapagos is nothing but gourmet.
For the true nature lover, there is nothing more exciting and fulfilling than being completely immersed in this small portion of the world which has not been marred by the hands of humans. Galapagos is flourishing in the manner in which Mother Nature intended and it is clearly a spectacle to behold. The Silver Galapagos and her crew respect the value of this destination and treat it with the same care and respect that they show each passenger. This is a one of a kind destination and a one of a kind cruise for anyone who loves nature.
