The Galapagos Explorer II

There are a number of options you can exercise on your trip to the Galapagos--there are all sizes of boats and yachts to choose from. The Galapagos Explorer is the largest boat allowed in the National Park of the Galapagos. It holds 100 guests plus crew.

The boat was built in Italy, and it's a beauty. It contains an onboard desalinization unit to supply drinking water. Soaps are furnished and are biodegradable. You can make an expensive phone call via satellite on the boat, but don't expect Internet access.

Naturalists are on board to guide you. Most speak English. There are frequent lectures to let you know what you'll be doing during the day and the following day.

Two trips in Zodiac dinghies to two different destinations are provided each day. All trips are guided, as required by the Park Service. Most days there are options which allow you to return to the boat early, especially when the trip is a beach and snorkeling trip. Snorkeling gear is available on the boat for a small rental fee. You'll have to arrange in advance for deep sea diving.

The negatives? Well, the air conditioning went out for a day. Despite what some agents say, you cannot flush toilet paper down the pressure toilets, which also failed to work the first night.

Meals were good, but many complained of a lack of Ecuadorian specialties. Breakfast was a buffet affair served in the restaurant, consisting of plenty of exotic fruits, breads, and three hot offerings always including scrambled eggs. Lunch was a buffet served in the pool/spa area after your first session in the field, and it was plentiful and tasty. Snacks were available just about any time in the afternoon. Dinner was taken in the restaurant. Four courses were served. Non alchoholic drinks were free -- the prices for wine and other alchohol wasn't cheap, except for the ship's special rum-and-lime drink for $2.50.