WHY THIS TRIP
Discover the Galapagos aboard the first class motor yacht, the Cachalote Explorer. This 16-passenger yacht is an ideal base for your Galapagos Islands exploration. The captain and crew take pride in the boat and their service, with frequent smiles and unexpected little touches. The casual atmosphere and attentive crew make your vacation very comfortable and you will immediately feel that you are among friends. The Cachalote works with excellent guides who will enhance your Galapagos experience and make the trip great fun!
TRIP DESCRIPTION
While cruising around the islands on a Cachalote Explorer, you’ll snorkel with the sea lions, observe blue and red-footed boobies, marvel at magnificent frigates with their massive red neck “balloons,” enjoy the scenery of volcanoes rising from turquoise waters, and perhaps spot dolphins and whales. Though there are no guarantees when it comes to wildlife, your highly trained naturalist guide will maximize your opportunities to see and learn about the fascinating animals you’re like to encounter in the Galapagos. Your guide will lead you on naturalist walks everyday, as well as provide daily opportunities to snorkel and explore the shoreline from a small zodiac. The longer itineraries ensure you see a wide diversity of wildlife, plant life, and landscapes that make the Galapagos the unique destination it is.
LOCAL OPERATOR: ENCHANTED EXPEDITIONS
Over its 30 years in business Enchanted Expeditions has built a stellar reputation for enchanting active, conservation-minded travelers with excellent service and authentic Ecuadorian experiences both on land and at sea.
One of the first travel companies in the Galapagos, Enchanted Expedition owns two yachts: the spacious first-class motor yacht, the Beluga, and its tastefully decorated first class schooner, the Cachalote Explorer. In an operation managed by a native of the Galapagos, each yacht has been awarded the Smart Voyager certification for adhering to conservation standards. The yachts accommodate 16 passengers each, a small exclusive group size that ensures an intimate experience.
In addition to the Galapagos Islands, Enchanted Expeditions operates trips throughout Ecuador. With the rich cultural heritage of Ecuador present on every trip, clients can choose where to focus their experience: adventure, culture, nature, markets, wildlife, or one of special interest to explore dining, archeology, education, arts, and important historical sites in Ecuador.
Tae M –
The experience was wonderful. The ship’s crew accommodated us very much. Food was great. The itinerary was full. You could to as much as was on the itinerary or not. They were prompt and punctual. If you’re not on deck or in the mess when the time for an activity comes up you may be left behind. I did about everything they offered.
A couple of drawbacks to the trip include: 1. Although it was a sail boat, we motored all the time. A couple of times part of the sail was let down for show but we motored along. I understand the limitation of actual sailing and the cost involved. It was fun anyway. 2. The wet suits available were thin and were shorties. I recommend bringing your own, especially if you go during their winter when the water is cold. With the above caveats I greatly recommend the adventure.
Katie C –
The Cachalote cruise fulfilled the “trip of a lifetime” ideal. The captain, crew and other passengers felt like friends. The guide, Juan, was incredibly knowledgeable and fun! He was able to advise an elderly passenger with a broken foot when she should and should not join us for walks based on difficulty and terrain. He always prepared us for the day’s activities and at the end of the day we would recap what we saw. The chef prepared delicious and healthy meals accommodating dietary needs and the bartender served up tasty cocktails and fun conversation.
This cruise was the perfect combination of a relaxing vacation while on the boat and an active adventure while we snorkeled and explored the islands. I recommend bringing sea-sickness medication as the boat will rock when the seas are rough. If you don’t get around well, this boat is not for you.
The islands and scenery were more beautiful than I imagined and every day was unique. I am glad I went for eight days to see a larger portion of the islands and their wildlife.
Colleen –
I just returned from this tour and describe it in one word. AWESOME!! The guide, Juan, was so knowledgable and took us to the best places for wildlife viewing. The snorkeling was the best I’ve ever seen. I felt like I was in paradise! The Chef was incredible and the crew so attentive. I would definitely recommend the Cachelote!
Detour travel did a great job and took care of every detail in the planning. My extra time in Quito was well planned also.
Gabriele –
We must be very very grateful to your big work of matching our requests: the experience has be unbelievable for me and Susanna, even being aware, just before departure, to spend two weeks into Paradise. In addition, weather was perfect: rain was expected at least once a day, but nothing happened! Warm water, interesting hikes and great snorkelling!!! ( Devil’s Crown highly recommended: for good swimmers only!!!!!) I will recommend the place and, for Italian people who will fall into intention to travel there, your professional service.
Sharon S –
The trip was AMAZING! We had such a great time! It exceeded all of our expectations. Your tour company also did a great job in making sure that we got the info/tickets/etc in Quito for our trip to the Galapagos. Well done! Your pre-departure emails and work up front made traveling much easier. I commend you and your company. I would recommend this tour and your services without hesitation!
Monica C –
The trip was excellent and the ship and the guides were great. The guide was very knowledgeable and the crew always accommodating. The hikes at each location are only limited to one group at a time, so it’s never overcrowded or “touristy”.
The hikes were usually 2-3 hours, but a couple of the hikes were on lava rock which makes the terrain a little more difficult.