Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Metropolitan runs three luxury ships through the Galápagos: La Pinta, Santa Cruz and Isa-
bela II. The Santa Cruz and Isabela II are small boats sleeping 40-90 guests, while La
Pinta combines the comforts of a 207 foot luxury cruise with the custom service of a small
expedition.
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KLEIN Tours
www.kleintours.com
$$$
KLEIN is one of the oldest operators cruising Galápagos' waters, but their services are
anything but dated. They run three first-class ships ranging in amenities. The Coral is a
deluxe boat, small with a top-deck Jacuzzi and plush suites. The Galápagos Legend is
their most luxurious option, with a swimming pool, large rooms, coffee bar, jogging track
and massage service, but it sleeps 110, so don't book if you mind the crowds.
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Tauck
www.tauck.com
$$$
Tauck caters to well-heeled travelers, designing itineraries that are light on adventure but
still wont for the full Galápagos experience. Tours start are about 8 days long with a focus
on families, a tour that visits 7 islands in 9 days and itineraries that can be mixed with
Machu Picchu excursions and other add-ons. They are often referred to as the best on the
archipelago.
Land Tours
Land tours are becoming exceedingly popular with travelers to the Galápagos for their ob-
vious benefits over cruises. For one, boat tours may be deal-breakers for those especially
sensitive to seasickness. Even though they're the main way of getting around to see the is-
lands, with land-based tours they're usually short whereas dining, sleeping and lounging
on a rocking ship can get tiring day after day. But the main reason visitors are choosing
land-based vacations on the Galápagos is because they're cheaper. Using the most deve-
loped and affordable island, Santa Cruz as a base, it's easy to island hop using water taxis
and tours from there.
