Conservation-focused travel company &Beyond has expanded its
South American offerings with the introduction of a luxury expedition
yacht in the Galapagos Islands. The &Beyond Galapagos Explorer, a
38-metre vessel accommodating up to 12 guests, began operations on 17
June 2024.
The yacht offers two 7-night itineraries exploring the eastern and
western parts of the Galapagos archipelago. With six suites and cabins,
the Explorer boasts a high guest-to-staff ratio, including two expert
guides per trip.
Joss Kent, &Beyond's Executive Chairman & CEO, stated, "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
travellers not only fall in love with those places, but also to gain an
understanding of the threats that they are facing."
The eastern route features Kicker Rock off San Cristóbal Island and
potential sightings of the endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay.
The western itinerary includes visits to Sombrero Chino Island and
encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana.
Both routes offer activities such as snorkelling, hiking, and
birdwatching. Prices start from US$10,950 per person for a 7-night
cruise.
The yacht underwent a significant refurbishment focused on
sustainability, including an overhaul of engines and generators to
improve fuel efficiency. Kent noted that while some advanced sustainable
technologies are not yet viable in the Galapagos, the company plans to
implement them as they become operationally feasible.
&Beyond also intends to extend its Oceans Without Borders
initiative to the Galapagos, exploring opportunities for ocean
conservation projects similar to their efforts in Africa.