2020 GeoEx Catalog

Choosing the Right GalápagosTrip

T  yping “Galápagos travel” into Google yields about 29,000,000 results, a number that suggests just how complex trip planning can be. If trying to make sense of it all—the boats of widely varying styles and sizes, the hotels and excursion outfitters of uncertain cali- ber, the flights to get to the archipelago—doesn’t sound appealing, we suggest giving our Galápagos gurus a call. FINDING WHAT WORKS FOR YOU Our experts head to the islands at least once each year to do careful, in-person research. We’ve curated a medley of excellent options, both at sea and on land, which we mix and match based on the indi- vidual traveler. (This is quite a different approach from many other companies, which simply funnel their clients into the same boat.) To zero in on your wishes and curiosities, we’ll ask key questions, including: • Are you traveling with children? (Many of our ships offer kids programs and interconnecting rooms.) • Would you prefer to sleep at sea or on land? (We have options for each and will explain their pros and cons.) • Do you want a set activity schedule? (Our island lodgings have more flexibility.) • How active would you like to be? (Cruises tend to be mellower; island lodgings allow for longer hikes and snorkeling outings.) • Would you like to tie in further South America explorations? (We’re adept at arranging visits to Cusco, the Ecuadorian high- lands, Machu Picchu, and more in conjunction with your trip.)

KAROL KOZLOWSKI / ROBERT HARDING

ABOVE  Blue-footed booby, San Cristobal Island.

HAND-SELECTED SHIPS FOR SCHEDULED DEPARTURES

For shared scheduled trips, we’ve thoughtfully chosen a number of top-notch boats for their great comfort, stability, and exacting hospi- tality and environmental standards. From a 16-passenger catamaran to a 20-passenger luxury yacht to a 48-passenger ship, each lends its own personality to the Galápagos experience. We’ll help you figure out which is right for you. PRIVATE CHARTERS FOR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS If you prefer to sail the Galápagos in privacy with friends or family, we can easily arrange 6- to 15-day private charters on a number of topflight smaller boats. After lining up the best-for-you crew, amenities, and expert naturalist guides, and arranging rewarding activities that speak to your group’s range of interests, we work behind the scenes to make sure your voyage runs smoothly.

BELOW  Swimming or snorkeling in these islands and having a frisky sea lion swoop in and offer to play is a headline Galápagos thrill.

TUI DE ROY / MINDEN PICTURES

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