I have to admit that I was a little skeptical about exploring the Galapagos Islands on the Explorer II. The ship is owned and operated by Canodros who markets themselves as ecotourism providers. There were a couple of things that I was concerned about like how comfortable would the ship be, would we get motion sickness, what would the food be like, what about the facilities [the toilets], how would we get to the islands. Translation I was mostly concerned about comfort.
First, our arrival at Baltra and navigating the arrival process was absolutely confusing notwithstanding the language barrier. My Spanish is minimal at best and almost totally unidirectional. I can communicate somewhat in Spanish, but do not expect me to understand much of what you say … if you speak in Spanish.
When you land in the Galapagos, you have to declare [on a form] that you are have nothing that might impact the ecology of the Islands, but that’s a blog for another day.
Once we finally arrive on the ship we are greeted by the crew and a very persistent ship photographer, Fernando. So far so good … the crew very carefully made sure that we safely got from the dingy to the ship. A crewman carried our carry-on bag and took us to our room … a Deluxe suite … and showed us the room. 
The room was very nice … similar to a hotel room in terms of accommodations and size. We had a nice bed, two chairs, a sofa, and cocktail table, as well as a minibar. We had a lockable drawer and plenty of space to store our clothes. Given that we were on a 100 passenger ship, the largest that the national park service allows now, the bathroom was okay … the shower and sink were fine. 
The toilet was our least favorite, it was filled with water, but the flush was a vacuum flush like what you find on airplanes. Additionally, you were supposed to dispose of your toilet tissue in a waste basket … at least it was sealed. I kept saying to myself that this is good for the ecology of the Islands.
Overall, this is one fine ship … the accommodations, the service, and the experience. If you are going to the Galapagos, consider the Explorer II.
4 responses so far ↓
Zoe // Thursday, January 31, 2008 at 6:46 am |
Interesting reading I am just planning a trip for Xmas/New Year 2008/9 and most ships are already booked, we have ben offered 4 nights on Explorer or land based (hotel & trips) as sea sicknes is a major concern considering the latter. As you were there at a similar time was sickness an issue and what are your thoughts?? Thanks
WalkinGates // Thursday, January 31, 2008 at 7:59 am |
Zoe,
We had a similar concern, which is part of the reason we decided to take our holiday on a larger ship. There are times that you will definitely know that you are on a ship. Of the 4 nights that we were on the ship, only once did I wake up due to the ship rocking. In terms motion sickness, we were so concerned that I had enough Dramamine for 2 people twice a day everyday. Never had to use it. We were also on the top deck which is supposedly where you feel the swaying most.
My other concern about motion sickness was the dingy rides from the ship to the islands. Because the Explorer II is a one of the larger ships and further from the island, the dingy rides are longer. Again, no motion sickness, despite a couple of very choppy rides. Returning to the ship from an excursion can be a little challenging, depending on how windy or choppy the water is, but the crew is exceptional in ensuring your safety.
While I do not have a land based comparison to make, I could not imagine a better experience than the cruise ship and the accommodations … except the toilet situation, which I think is probably through the Galapagos.
Please let me know if you have other questions. I am glad to share my experience.
Hal & Jody // Thursday, October 16, 2008 at 1:13 pm |
We are taking the ship in Jan. 09.
Anyone else going on this date?
WalkinGates // Thursday, October 16, 2008 at 8:26 pm |
We were in the Galapagos the last week of December 2007 and the weather was perfect!
At 100 passengers, there are plenty of people to meet without feeling trapped with the same people.
You will be in groups, the same group, during your excusions though.
I hope you enjoy the ship!