YACHTS & YACHTING 35 operating licences issued ,” says andBeyond Executive Chairman & CEO , Joss Kent .
“ 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 . This is what we are aiming to do through the introduction of our luxury yacht , where two knowledgeable guides will host just twelve guests , showcasing the wonder and mystery of this exceptional destination .”
With only 12 guests on board , the elevated guest-to-staff ratio makes the Galapagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht operating in the islands . In addition to the highest level of guiding , the vessel will also offer beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas , as well as four exquisite cabins and two luxury suites . Currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment of its interiors , the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer will set sail on its first departure on 17 June 2024 .
Situated on the equator , the Galapagos consists of 18 main islands , three smaller islands , and 107 rocks and islets . Designated a World Heritage Site in 1878 , the islands are home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna , with many species found nowhere else on earth . Notable species include the Galapagos giant tortoise , marine iguana , and blue-footed booby . The islands also feature unique geographical features , and each has created a distinct ecosystem of its own , with strict conservation measures in place to preserve the delicate balance . The Charles Darwin Research Centre , located on Santa Cruz Island , focuses on conservation efforts and conducts scientific research to protect the rare biodiversity of the islands .
Operating on two different 7-night itineraries , the 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 magnificent formation of 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 features highlights that include exploring the geographical centre of the Galapagos Islands , Sombrero Chino Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on Santa Fe Island .
ISSUE 63 2024 THE ART OF LUXURY