andBeyond has announced the expansion of its South America portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht in the Galapagos Islands. Named the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer, the 124-foot yacht will operate two different seven-night routes in the east and west of the Galapagos Islands. With just six suites and cabins, the yacht will cater to a maximum of 12 guests, plus two expert guides, who will be present on each departure. Currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment of its interiors, the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer will set sail on its first departure on June 17, 2024.
andBeyond Galapagos Explorer will offer the choice of discovering the east or the west of the main cluster of islands while including the highlights of the destination in both. Highlights of the eastern itinerary include the Kicker Rock, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as sightings of the critically endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay on Española Island. The western itinerary highlights include exploring the geographical center of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana.
Both itineraries present plenty of opportunities for land and sea adventures such as snorkeling, hiking and bird-watching, as well as up-close encounters with a range of interesting land, air and marine species.
Good to know: andBeyond will apply its ethos of “Care of Land, People and Wildlife” to its new base of operations. The company plans to extend its Oceans Without Border initiative into the area to review and implement projects that support the Galapagos’ land and wildlife. Furthermore, it also aims to train and upskill residents, as well as to highlight local procurement opportunities.
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