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The Galapagos Islands, located nearly 1,000 kilometres west of Ecuador, are renowned for their extraordinary wildlife and beautiful scenery. Since Charles Darwin’s studies of Galapagos’ distinctive biosphere, the islands have been a hotspot for exploration and expedition.
Each island is an entirely unique environment, from rocky, volcanic landscapes to vivid reefs swarming with multi-coloured fish. The Islands are home to the world’s only swimming iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins found north of the equator, along with rare giant tortoises that can grow more than a metre during their 150-year life span.
As evidenced by Darwin’s travels, cruising is the best way to explore the islands, allowing the everyday tourist to take on the role of an adventurer. These cruise lines are only a few of the options to get you there in style, and your personal travel manager can help you create the perfect tailor-made Galapagos adventure.
Linblad Expeditions
As the first expedition-style travel company, Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has invited travellers to explore what Darwin described as “a little world within itself” for more than 40 years.
Serviced by a handpicked team of Galapagos residents eager to share their local knowledge, every expedition sails with a veteran leader and a team of naturalists. In addition to these experts, a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor is present on every Galapagos voyage both to assist and instruct others in capturing the surrounding beauty.
The ships themselves are equipped with underwater video cameras that allow marine life to be viewed from the comfort of an on-board lounge and the Lindblad fleet of Zodiacs are the perfect size to navigate into tight areas that large ships are unable to access.
Lindblad operates two year-round ships that depart weekly, providing an accessible avenue to the exotic world of the Galapagos.
World Expeditions
Specialising in innovative adventure holidays, World Expeditions offers expert guided tours spanning seven continents.
They provide 8-day cruises of the Galapagos archipelago on the deluxe110 foot ‘Beluga’. With a naturalist guide aboard to answer any questions and point out amazing wildlife, travellers will enjoy an unforgettable experience exploring the island’s unique flora and fauna by day while resting in their private double cabin with ensuite bathroom by night.
Silver Galapagos
If you’re after the latest in sailing, Silversea cruises has just launched the Silver Galapagos – a 4,000 tonne luxury liner accommodating 100 guests and 75 crew.
The Silver Galapagos experience includes complimentary exploration activities including Zodiac tours, snorkelling, kayaking and nature hikes led by experienced guides certified by the National Park of the Galápagos.
While you’re sure to marvel at the outside scenery, on-board you’ll find marble in-suite bathrooms, a new fitness centre, beauty salon, massage room, outdoor spa and an outdoor restaurant.
Talk to your local, personal travel manager to find out more about travelling in the Galapagos http://www.travelmanagers.com.au/ptm-search/
Have you been to the Galapagos Islands? Let us know if you have any recommendations.
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