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GALAPAGOS ISLANDS M/Y Eric M/Y Flamingo M/Y Letty Yacht profile Deck Plan Itinerary FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs -  M/V ERIC, FLAMINGO AND LETTY - in their own words:

Are itineraries subject to change?
Yes, itineraries are subject to change at any time for any reason and without prior notice. Last minute changes to the itinerary can occur at any time including but not limited to changes in National Park rules or at the discretion of the Captain of the vessel or company for any reason including mechanical failure. Ecoventura will not be held responsible for any refund whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.

Who will meet me at the airport in Galapagos?
Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno airport, San Cristobal, passengers are met by our guides wearing Ecoventura polo shirts and transferred by bus to the yachts anchored in the bay. Once on board, you will receive an orientation and safety drill.

What daily activities can I expect?
The day begins with an early breakfast followed by the first shore excursion. We return for lunch followed by a siesta while the vessel navigates to the next Island. Mid-afternoon, we disembark for the second excursion and return to prepare for dinner. Before dinner, the guides give a briefing for the next day’s shore excursions. In the evenings, we navigate to the next Island arriving in the morning for a new adventure.

When are meals served?
Meals are informal and there is just one seating for all passengers. Although meal times can vary slightly, the typical schedule is breakfast at 7:30am, buffet lunch at 12:30pm and dinner served at 7:30pm. The menu is international with touches of Ecuadorian specialties. Snacks are served after morning and afternoon shore excursions.

Are there naturalist guides on board?
Passengers must be accompanied at all times by our naturalist guides who have been trained by the Darwin Station and licensed by the National Park. They know each visitor site intimately and share their knowledge on nature walks during the day and in briefings in the evening. There are two guides on board (one for every ten passengers).

What is your passenger profile?
Our passengers tend to be well educated, well traveled and from a variety of age groups and nationalities, although most are from English speaking counties. They have a keen interest in learning about nature and ecology and are concerned about environmental issues.

How do we get from the boat to the shore?
The vessels anchor offshore at two visitor sites per day. Passengers are ferried to the landing point in small zodiac-style tenders (locally called “pangas”). The landings are either wet (where one must step into water anywhere from your ankles to your knees and wade to shore) or dry (where one steps from the panga directly to the volcanic rock). Your guide and panga driver will assist you with a steady hand.

What happens during the shore excursions?
On the Islands, one must follow marked trails set by the National Park walking at a leisurely pace. The guides will interpret and explain the unusual sights you see. You’ll spend 3-4 hours at each site allowing plenty of time to explore and photograph the abundant wildlife. There are opportunities to swim or snorkel almost every day during the week and sometimes twice a day. Kayaks can be used only at designated sites approved by the National Park.

Are there regulations we must obey?
During the orientation, your guide will go over the Galapagos National Park rules which request, among others, that you do not disturb or remove anything (not even a rock or shell), do not touch or feed the animals, do not leave any liter and to stay on the marked trails. Show a conservationist attitude! Leave only footprints and take home only photographs.

How strenuous are the walks?
Passengers able to walk a few hours a day unassisted will be able to fully enjoy Galapagos. Some of the excursions require more physical activity than others involving short steep climbs or long walks in hot weather. However, most excursions require moderate activity and the walks are at a leisurely pace giving time for the guides to describe what you are seeing. Entering and exiting the pangas require that you need to be reasonably fit, sure footed and in good health. If you are concerned about your ability to do any particular day hike, please consult with the naturalist or Captain beforehand.

What if I have a physical disability?
Please see your doctor for a check-up before traveling to Ecuador. Any medical condition or physical disability that may require special attention or treatment must be advised to Ecoventura at the time of booking.

Will I encounter rough seas or bad weather?
Due to strong currents, there will be moderate movement of the vessel while navigating. Most passengers are not affected. However, if you are prone to seasickness, we strongly urge you bring some type of medication to prevent motion sickness.