Galapagos Western Islands luxury cruise

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
To reduce the environmental footprint of operations in this fragile archipelago, the yacht incorporates sustainable sourcing practices, including the use of fresh vegetables grown on a hydroponic farm in San Cristóbal. This initiative, connected to our Citizen Scientist Program, minimizes the need for long-distance food transport from mainland Ecuador, thereby significantly lowering associated carbon emissions. Additionally, by producing food locally, the initiative reduces packaging waste and supports cleaner logistics within the islands. While marine vessels inevitably rely on fuel, routes are optimized to avoid unnecessary navigation legs, and operations follow best practices for efficiency and waste management.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
All shore excursions are conducted under Galápagos National Park regulations and led by licensed naturalist guides trained in conservation. Guests receive daily briefings on biosecurity, wildlife behavior, and environmental stewardship. Sensitive sites like Fernandina, Isabela, and Floreana are approached with strict protocols to minimize disturbance. Participation in the Citizen Scientist Program allows travelers to contribute to research through wildlife monitoring, fostering meaningful engagement in conservation.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
We operate the vessel under Ecuadorian ownership and management, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism remain within the country. Wherever possible, the vessel is provisioned with locally sourced products from San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and coastal Ecuador, including fresh seafood and staple goods. These purchases support small-scale producers and fishers, contributing to the economic sustainability of the islands’ food systems. While Galápagos conservation rules limit certain imports, the operation prioritizes local sourcing when availability and regulations allow, helping reinforce regional supply chains and reduce dependency on mainland logistics. This approach not only supports livelihoods but also reduces the environmental costs of long-distance transport.

EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY, AND DIVERSITY
The entire crew is made up of Galápagos-born professionals, many of whom have deep generational ties to the islands. Among them is Karen, who currently serves as helmswoman and is on track to become the first female captain in the Galápagos. We actively support skills development, offering training and career pathways that promote long-term employment and gender inclusion within the maritime sector.