Cruising on the m.v. Santa Cruz

The charm, intimacy and personal service of the small cruise ship experience are the hallmarks of travel aboard the first-class expedition vessel, m.v. Santa Cruz. Her ability to navigate the Galápagos archipelago's narrow channels, shallow bays and environmentally sensitive waters ensures that participants enjoy the most comprehensive access possible to the region's treasures. The m.v. Santa Cruz has only 44 cabins and offers a wide array of modern amenities and facilities.

Six multilingual naturalists will share their in-depth insight and information about the Galápagos' distinctive ecosystem during daily excursions and multimedia presentations. For island excursions, the ship provides five Zodiacs for landings, a Boston Whaler glass-bottom boat for viewing aquatic life and complimentary snorkeling equipment.

Each outside cabin is tastefully appointed with private bathroom facilities, air conditioning and either a window or a porthole.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring international and Ecuadorian specialties, are served daily in single seatings in the ship's inviting dining room.

The ship's public facilities include a bar, lounge, gift shop, business center with e-mail service, natural history library, jacuzzi and a medical clinic with a full-time physician.

The m.v. Santa Cruz's highly trained staff provides professional, attentive service that is recognized in the travel industry as one of the finest in the Galápagos Islands. The ship maintains the highest international safety and environmental standards.