Isabela II Galápagos Cruise
The perfect luxury yacht for nature lovers
A Galápagos Cruise on board the Isabela II
16 Reviews
- Superb amenities like internet, gym, boutique and library;
- Only 40 guests maximum means you still enjoy an intimate experience;
- Al fresco dining and superb sundeck with jacuzzi;
- One of the most experienced crews in the islands.
With only 20 elegant cabins but 3 decks to explore, the luxury yacht Isabela II offers more amenities than smaller boats in the fleet yet retains an intimate and personal feel. Guests on board Isabela enjoy service from one of the most consistent crews in the islands - many of her 26 have been with her for years. This means amazing attention to detail and levels of knowledge that will make your trip very special indeed.
More amenities Fully renovated in 2014, Isabela II boasts many features you won’t find on any other ship. There’s a superb fully glazed fitness centre on the sundeck, providing an unparalleled view for your morning workout. The dedicated al fresco restaurant provides welcome shade whilst allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature with your superb meals.
The cosy salon with extensive bar is the perfect place to relax and socialize, and the reading room with dedicated natural history library is a haven of peace and knowledge. On board internet access with wifi connection means you can stay in touch and share your adventures with friends and family.
Elegant sophistication Air conditioned throughout, Isabela II is decorated in an elegant and timeless style. Natural woods, soft neutral fabrics and clean, crisp whites set the tone throughout the ship - a wonderful mix of modern style with classic maritime details. Cabins are bright and airy with large windows and plenty of natural illumination. Lighter woods, cream walls and crisp linens contrast with warm earthy tones on the fully-carpeted floors. All cabins have private en suite bathrooms with full size showers, hair dryers and full-height mirrors.
Outside spaces are beautifully laid to teak or ocean-blue finishes with stylish and comfortable seating and loungers. There’s a wonderful wood-clad jacuzzi tub in the centre of the sun deck - a perfect place to unwind after your amazing wildlife excursions.
An expert team Isabella II’s captain and senior crew are all top-ranking naval officers who know the waters of the archipelago intimately, with over 60 years experience between them. Isabella carries a fully qualified medical officer on board for complimentary guest consultations, available 24/7. Your fully bilingual naturalist guides give you fascinating presentations about the land and marine wildlife you will see, ask any of your questions, and lead you on some amazing excursions to land and sea.
The yacht carries her own snorkeling equipment for guests to enjoy (with wetsuits for hire if required) as well as a fleet of ocean-going kayaks. For those who don’t swim (or don’t wish to) there’s no need to miss out - Isabela II has her very own glass-bottomed boat. There are few better vessels to choose as your base for your Galápagos adventures.
Our comments Isabela II has all the benefits that a larger boat bring, but with only 20 cabins and 26 crew none of the impersonality. We love the al fresco dining room and we think she has one of the best bars in the islands. The fact that so many of her crew have been with her so long is proof she’s a well-run and happy ship, and we always find her guides can really get across the magic of the Galápagos.
This is a very experienced crew. Captain Richard tells us he's been skipper for over 10 years, and hotel manager Gerd has extensive hotel industry experience and speaks English, German, Spanish and French. Your chef is Alsibar, he beats both of them with over 20 years experience on board! Speaking of food, his kitchen serves wonderful Ecuadorian specialities, including suckling pig and ceviche. Very traditional and very delicious.
In terms of excursions and naturalist experience, this ship is very well-equipped. She has her own infrared camera which they use to show the temperature of cold-blooded animals, microscope and other scientific equipment used on excursions to let you really understand the nature of the islands.
Dates & Prices on board the Isabela II
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Amenities on board the Isabela II
Doctor on board
Triple cabins
Travel for good: Your Each booking contributes to Ventura’s Conservation Project.
Scuba outing possible
Kayaks on board
Air conditioning & private bathroom
Children's corner with activities
Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices
Internet/Wifi
All meals
Transfers to and from ship
-25% for children ≤ 12
Sundeck with jacuzzi
Gym on board
English guides
Glass Bottom Boat
Snorkel gear (free of charge)
Food & Drinks on board the Isabela II
The food on our Galapágos Cruises is among the very best you will find in South America. Most of the on-board chefs are internationally trained and have prior experience working in the best hotels and restaurants in Ecuador and indeed around the world.
You can expect a first-class selection of food, including a good variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, locally sourced poultry and fish/seafood, rice and pasta dishes. Most boats will always include some typical Ecuadorian dishes on the menu during your cruise. If you have specific dietary requirements then these can usually be accommodated by the chef providing you have given advance notice. Please make sure you tell us about any allergies or dietary requirements you have at the time you book with us. If you leave it until you arrive at the dockside, then it may well be impossible to accommodate your needs.
Most boats serve a range of options at meal times in a relaxed buffet-style. At the first class and luxury end of the market, some boats have more formal dining where you will be served at your seat. However the atmosphere is always relaxed on board our cruises, and never stuffy or formal.
Sustainable Tourism
At Galapatours we love and respect the pristine ecosystems and fascinating wildlife of the Galápagos Islands. To protect the archipelago, all vessels in Galápagos must have sophisticated water filtration systems, modern, efficient engines, and strict maintenance schedules to minimize pollution. Furthermore, The Galápagos National Park authority defines exact cruising routes that dictate which ships can visit which highlights at what day and time, as well as limiting passenger numbers.
But at Galapatours we like to go even further: We voluntarily offset all the CO2 emissions of every cruise we sell - at no cost to you. You can also play your part by traveling responsibly and following our Eco Guidelines during your stay. Click here to find out more about these guidelines, our commitment to sustainable tourism, and the Galápagos National Park rules.
