Silverseas Expedition Cruise to the Galapagos Islands
in September 2021, I achieved a long- held dream of visiting the amazing Galapagos Islands in Ecuador. These islands inspired Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution partly from his observance of the finches on different islands. There are strict laws put in place to protect the region’s landscape and wildlife for future generations. The islands are best seen on a cruise – and there’s no better way to explore them than on a 6* Silverseas cruise. My ship was called Silver Origin, a ship purpose built for cruising in the Galapagos Islands and one of the most environmentally conscious ships ever built. With only capacity for 100 guests, it is the height of experiential luxury travel in the Galapagos.
I must point out that this cruise was not a typical cruise. It was an expedition cruise which is more about the experience ashore, the wildlife encountered, snorkelling, exploration and adventure. Although it was an expedition cruise the level of luxury onboard was unparalleled – from the luxurious state rooms with mini-bars refilled daily to the fire pit at the back of the ship where you could sip a cocktail watching the sun go down. Silverseas thought of everything including the reef-safe sun-cream which was provided in every state room along with the wet suits and snorkelling equipment.
Our adventure began when we landed in San Cristobal Island after a 2- hour flight from Quito in Ecuador. It was so exciting catching the first glimpse of the islands as the plane made its approach. We were transferred to the ship by rubber dingy boats – zodiacs, as the ship never docks. It uses dynamic positioning so there is no anchor to damage the delicate eco-system of the seabed.
Throughout the following week we explored the various islands and learned about the wildlife that inhabited them. We were able to get up close as the wildlife there have no fear of people. Curious baby seals wanted to come closer to us, but the expedition leaders made sure we kept our distance. Blue Footed Boobies nested with their chicks only feet away from us without any fear, and marine iguanas blocked our path as they made their way across the lava field.
Our day started early in the Galapagos. Breakfast was usually around 6.30AM before a hike on one of the islands or a zodiac tour around the coast. Everyday you could choose to take a hike on an island, a zodiac coastal tour, snorkel in the sea and off the beach, or go sea kayaking. There were also alternatives for those who wanted to take it easy including a ceviche cooking demonstration an Ecuadorian wine tasting, and every evening the onboard naturalists also gave interesting lectures about the flora and fauna in the Galapagos, and the measures taken to protect it.
The islands and the surrounding sea are rich in wildlife, and even if you don’t want to snorkel it is still possible to see manta rays, sun fish, penguins, seals and turtles from the zodiacs. One of the highlights of the trip was visiting Santa Cruz Island to see the giant tortoises. This island is one of the few islands that is inhabited by people. While we were there, we visited a coffee plantation for a coffee and chocolate tasting. The proceeds of this plantation are used to fund the care of the giant tortoises. Every island we visited had something different to offer, from the wildlife to the beautiful beaches to the lava fields.
As a destination the Galapagos Islands are perfect for anybody interested in wildlife, who loves adventure and going off the beaten track. Taking a cruise with Silverseas is a great way to do this while traveling in comfort and luxury. When you book a Galapagos cruise with Silversea two nights pre-cruise accommodation in Quito is included along with an old city evening tour. Also included is the internal flight from Quito to San Cristobal in the Galapagos islands, all transfers, and a day room with lunch in a hotel before your flight home. The whole experience was seamless and stress-free, with every detail looked after by the wonderful Silverseas staff and crew.
The Galapagos Islands are truly a trip of a lifetime and a destination I feel privileged to have visited. If you would like more information about these amazing islands or would like help planning your trip, please don’t hesitate to contact me.