Come face to face with a blue footed booby, snorkel with sea lions, soak up the sun with iguanas, enjoy the brilliant display of stars in the night sky, or simply enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. Yep, it’s just another typical day in the Galápagos. One of the few locations on earth without an indigenous human population, the Galápagos Islands are an especially unique place.
Situated in the Pacific Ocean about six hundred miles west of Ecuador and located at the confluence of three ocean currents, the Galápagos are a melting pot of marine species. Protected by its distance and unusual geography, its flora and fauna have survived and flourished through time, many of which are found nowhere else on earth.
With no known predators, the wildlife here exhibit almost no fear of humans.
It was a result of Charles Darwin’s observations after his visit to the Galápagos in 1835 that inspired his theory of natural selection and publication of On the Origin of Species. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978, these islands restrict the number of visitors and require them to have a guide in protected areas. I believe that seeing the out-of-this-world array of incredible animals is a true inspiration to travel there.
Cruising and The Galápagos
Cruising is beginning to come back and Lindblad is leading the industry with safe protocols that include all passengers over 16 years old to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, two negative COVID tests, daily temperature checks, reduced capacity, and masks in public areas – not outdoors in wilderness areas (unless local laws require them). Restrictions and mandates continue to evolve so requirements may change as time goes on.
Lindblad
Expeditions with National Geographic
7 Days – June through December prices from $5900 per person (solo premiums waived on select dates)
This is a sea-based journey on the National Geographic Islander. Yacht-scaled and trim, with mahogany and gleaming brass fittings, this 48-guest, twin-hulled expedition ship has the feeling of a private yacht. This trip is all about adventure – on land, at sea, and undersea, so come prepared to walk, hike, kayak, paddleboard and snorkel.
Days 1 and 7 pre and post cruise hotels in Ecuador with days 3 – 6 onboard the ship. Cruise price includes meals and beverages, excursions, and internal flights. Solo premiums are waived on select voyages. There are options to extend your time in the Andes of Ecuador for an additional charge as well as other cruises that are for longer duration.
If you’re ready for a unique adventure focused on amazing wildlife and natural landscapes (and you want to avoid the “see and be seen scene” at the usual travel destinations, then a Lindblad cruise to the Galapagos should be on your list.
Lindblad is also cruising in Alaska this summer.
Helen Jordan is the owner of Jordan Luxury Travel, an independent affiliate of Brownell Travel, a member of Virtuoso. She can be reached at [email protected].
