Andbeyond Galapagos Explorer : Luxury Yacht Adventure of a Lifetime

Renowned for its bespoke safaris and tailored tours across Africa, Asia, and South America, andBeyond is set to debut an exciting addition to its portfolio: a brand-new expedition yacht destined for the captivating Galápagos Islands this summer. Known as the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer, this majestic 124-footer is poised to navigate two distinct 7-night routes, offering unparalleled exploration opportunities in both the eastern and western reaches of the renowned archipelago.

Boasting just six suites and cabins, the yacht is designed to cater for a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Two seasoned guides will be on hand for every departure, providing expert insights into the wonders of the Galápagos Islands.

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Featuring a guest-to-staff ratio that surpasses all others, the Galapagos Explorer stands out as the epitome of exclusivity in island cruising. Beyond exceptional guiding, the vessel will also offer beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas, as well as four exquisite cabins and two luxury suites.

Situated on the equator, the Galapagos consists of 18 main islands, three smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1878, the islands are home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, with many species found nowhere else on earth. Notable species include the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguana, and blue-footed booby. The islands also feature unique geographical features, and each has created a distinct ecosystem of its own, with strict conservation measures in place to preserve the delicate balance. The Charles Darwin Research Centre, located on Santa Cruz Island, focuses on conservation efforts and conducts scientific research to protect the rare biodiversity of the islands.

Image courtesy of Andbeyond 

“A uniquely biodiverse environment with the highest number of endemic species in the world, the Galapagos is a natural choice for the further expansion of our portfolio in South America. We are absolutely thrilled to finally have the opportunity to bring our brand of responsible tourism to this precious part of the world, which the Ecuadorian government has protected from over-tourism by strictly limiting the number of operating licences issued,” says &Beyond Executive Chairman & CEO, Joss Kent.

The &Beyond Galapagos Explorer will offer the choice of discovering the east or the west of the main cluster of islands, while including the highlights of the destination in both. Highlights of the eastern itinerary include the magnificent formation of Kicker Rock, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as sightings of the critically endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay on Española Island. The western Itinerary features highlights that include exploring the geographical centre of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on Santa Fe Island.

Image courtesy of Andbeyond 

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In keeping with its stated mission to leave our world a better place, &Beyond will apply its ethos of Care of Land, People and Wildlife to its new base of operations. “We have long believed that the best way to encourage our guests to help protect the world’s wild places is for our skilled guides to help travellers not only fall in love with those places, but also to gain an understanding of the threats that they are facing. This is what we are aiming to do through the introduction of our luxury yacht, where two knowledgeable guides will host just twelve guests, showcasing the wonder and mystery of this exceptional destination.” says &Beyond Executive Chairman & CEO, Joss Kent.

The company plans to extend its Oceans Without Border initiative into the area and hopes to be able to review and implement projects that support the Galapagos’ incredible land and wildlife. Furthermore, in line with its dedication to community development, it also aims to train and upskill local residents, as well as to highlight local procurement opportunities.

The &Beyond Galapagos Explorer will set sail on its first departure on 17 June 2024. Rates for both itineraries begin from USD 10,950 per person sharing per 7-night cruise.