New luxury expedition yacht launched in Galapagos /

Conservation-led luxury travel company &Beyond has announced the expansion of its South American portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht in the Galapagos Islands. The 38-metre yacht, named the &Beyond Galapagos Explorer, will operate on two seven-night itineraries in the east and west of the famous Galapagos Islands. The yacht has just six suites and cabins and can accommodate up to twelve guests, with two expert guides present on each departure.

“The Galapagos, a unique biodiverse environment with the highest number of endemic species in the world, is a logical 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 overtourism by strictly limiting the number of operating permits issued,” said &Beyond Executive Chairman & CEO , Joss Kent.

“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 travelers not only fall in love with those places, but also gain insight into the threats they face. This is what we want to achieve with the introduction of our luxury yacht, where two expert guides will host just twelve guests and showcase the wonder and mystery of this exceptional destination.” With only 12 guests on board, the increased guest-to-staff ratio makes the Galapagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht on the islands. In addition to the highest level of guidance, the ship will also offer beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas, as well as four exquisite cabins and two luxury suites. The &Beyond Galapagos Explorer is currently undergoing an extensive interior renovation and will make its first departure on June 17, 2024.

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

Operating on two different seven-night itineraries, &Beyond Galapagos Explorer offers the choice of exploring the east or west of the main archipelago, while taking in the destination’s highlights in both. Highlights of the eastern route include the magnificent Kicker Rock formation, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as sightings of the critically endangered Gulf Albatross in Gardner Bay on Española Island. The western itinerary includes highlights such as exploring the geographic center of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island, and encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on Santa Fe Island. 2

Both routes offer plenty of opportunities for land and sea adventures, including snorkeling, hiking and birdwatching, as well as an abundance of unique and interesting land, air and sea wildlife. Fares for both itineraries start from USD 10,950 per person per 7-night cruise.

In keeping with its mission to leave our world a better place, &Beyond will apply its ethos of caring for land, people and wildlife to its new base of operations. The company plans to expand its Oceans Without Border initiative to the area and hopes to assess and implement projects that support the incredible land and wildlife of the Galapagos. Furthermore, in line with its commitment to community development, it also strives to educate and upskill local residents, and showcase local sourcing opportunities.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for over 30 years. He is a winner of WIRED magazine’s Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award. Among other awards, the blog has also been named ‘one of the best travel blogs in the world’ and ‘best in luxury’ by The Daily Telegraph.