Galapagos: Santa Cruz II
90 Passenger Motorized mono-hull (First Class)
Conceived for operations in remote areas, our state-of-the-art expedition vessel evinces the perfect infrastructure for Galapagos exploration. Carrying its crews heritage of decades of experience working in the islands and just over 70 metres long, the generous, five-deck craft holds 50 cabins for 90 guests and features ample, luxury-sized social areas indoors and out that allow guests to make the most of their Galapagos cruise experience.
One of the hallmarks of our voyages is our ability to explore the islands profoundly, just like Darwin did back in 1835 while aboard the HMS Beagle. It is through their power of observation that our Naturalist Guides reveal the uniqueness of this volcanic land, and it is through our outings and landings that we unveil the secrets of our one Earths most extraordinary wildlife destinations. To design each days excursions, our Expedition Leader adapts the archipelagos best offerings on site, translating his or her personal knowledge into a fantastic set of activities. When applied, these multiple sets of options will create guests unforgettable Galapagos experiences. Some will include excursions on land, others will explore the aquatic realm, and others explore both.
Over the years, we have come to understand that the islands touch the souls of our guests through different experiences, and therefore our vessel incorporates various enriching ways to explain the Galapagos. Aquatic activities introduce you to the Marine Preserve, where sea lions frolic right in front of snorkellers and sharks become visible underneath the glass bottom boat. Pangas (dinghies) and kayaks take explorers to shore and along the spectacular volcanic coasts. And after dark, Naturalist Guides will delight guests by opening up the special equatorial skies, famous for showing constellations from both hemispheres.
Galapagos exploration is best done in small, well-coordinated groups directed by an Expedition Leader. We are proud that the Santa Cruz II has an average ratio of just 11 guests per naturalist guide, while the Galapagos National Park policy permits 16:1. This enables us to tailor groups according to abilities and interests, as well as to languages beyond English and Spanish (German, French and Italian). Our groups are each led by a multilingual park-certified Naturalist Guide, whose ample knowledge will be essential to unlock the islands secrets to visitors. Some guides are birdwatchers, others love the ocean, and others can make the stones talk. These seasoned individuals will broaden your understanding and appreciation for the destination, while their on-board natural-history lectures will enhance the educational value of each voyage.
During her twice-fortnightly visit to Santa Cruz Island, the ship offers alternative activities including downhill biking in the highlands, walking to Tortuga Bay, kayaking or some down-time. We are one of the very few companies to provide these alternatives.
Cabins and Amenities
Cabins
50 - Panorama Deck: 3 Darwin Suites, 3 Explorer Cabins; Expedition Deck: 17 Explorer Cabins; Horizon Deck: 2 Voyager Cabins, 2 Explorer Family Cabins, 23 Explorer Cabins.
--Air conditioning
--Picture window
--Hair dryer
--iPod/MP3 docking station
--Numerous electrical outlets
--Public address system
--In-room safe
--Reading lights
--Internet available for an additional fee
Amenities
On the Sky Deck, guests can relax and enjoy the sun at the solarium/ sun deck or exercise in the fitness room outfitted with treadmills.
On the Panorama Deck, guests can relish the equatorial outdoors on the aft terrace, which doubles as an area for enjoying a barbeque snack. The large bar/lounge offers a relaxing area to unwind amid the Santa Cruzs legendary convivial atmosphere. On the same deck, guests are also welcome to visit the modern bridge, featuring state-of-the-art electronic navigation equipment, run by our highly experienced captains.
On the Expedition Deck, our guides will welcome you to an ample reading room and natural history library, with up-to-date technology for presentations on the geology, biology, and history of Darwins fabled "Laboratory of Evolution." Facing the prow, its a fantastic, calm place to view the beauty of the archipelago in a climate-controlled environment. An open multi-purpose room on the decks starboard side is available for childrens programs and other events. The aft features twin hot tubs.
On the Horizon Deck, besides Explorer cabins, you will find the gift shop, reception area, and the infirmary, where a medical doctor is on call 24/7 (consultations are free of charge).
The Beagle Restaurant is located to the aft on the Ocean Deck.
Full-time onboard expedition photo specialist.
WiFi/Internet connection - $40 + taxes.
Wetsuits $17/person
- Hot Tub
- Kayaks: No kayaks
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