Hurtigruten’s exclusive cruises in the Galapagos
Hurtigruten Expeditions, a world leader in exploration travel, is expanding its global reach towards one of the most characteristic destinations in the world: the Galapagos Islands.
Famous for its extraordinary nature and wildlife, this isolated archipelago is located 600 miles (1000 kilometers) from the coast of Ecuador and has enchanted travelers and scientists for centuries. Beginning in January 2022, Hurtigruten Expeditions will expand its list of destinations to include the Galapagos Islands by offering modern explorers in-depth adventures described as “beyond imagination.”
Le esclusive crociere nelle Galapagos di Hurtigruten
“We are very enthusiastic to expand our offerings in South America to include one of the most spectacular destinations in the world. We have seen a clear trend of travelers looking for unique and meaningful travel experiences, as well as a big increase in the requests for small ships and the incredible experiences that we offer. The pandemic has dramatically sped up this development. Right now there is a huge request for trips and we are responding with this new breathtaking destination,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten Group.
Two pioneers – one partnership
To be able to offer guests unique land experiences, Hurtigruten Expeditions has formed a strategic long-term partnership with Metropolitan Touring, the most experienced and renowned tour operator for the Galapagos based in Ecuador.
Guests will explore the Galapagos Islands in style and comfort aboard the MS Santa Cruz II, a completely renovated ship that can accommodate 90 guests, which has been added to the growing fleet of small expedition ships owned by Hurtigruten Expeditions.
“This partnership brings together two companies that combine the best of both worlds: Hurtigruten Expeditions as a global player with an excellent reputation for expedition cruises and we bring a long history and deep knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. We are truly enthusiastic to welcome the first Hurtigruten Expeditions guests,” declared Paulina Burbano de Lara, CEO of Metropolitan Touring.
Daniel Skjeldam CEO Hurtigruten Group
Experience without rival
Metropolitan Touring has been offering unique encounters with the local wildlife on the islands since the path to expedition cruises was opened to the Galapagos almost 70 years ago. Hurtigruten Expeditions has been doing expedition cruises since 1896 and since then has become the largest expedition cruise company in the world.
“This is a significant milestone in our 125-year history of exploration. The Galapagos Islands are the par excellence of the expedition cruise destinations in the world. It’s a perfect match between two companies with a proud history, a strong heritage and a passion for the well-being of our oceans and our planet,” said Asta Lassesen, CEO of Hurtigruten Expeditions.
MS Santa Cruz
Excellent, now even better: the MS Santa Cruz will be completely modernized
Beginning January 5, 2022, Hurtigruten Expeditions will offer 9-day adventures, visiting some of the most spectacular sights of the archipelago aboard the MS Santa Cruz II, as well as pre and post cruise packages beyond the 6 nights of expedition cruising.
It is also possible to add a pre-program of four nights in Machu Picchu in nearby Peru before coming on the Galapagos adventure. To book, please visit the Hurtigruten Expeditions website or contact your preferred travel agent.
As part of the partnership, the MS Santa Cruz II, including all suites and staterooms, explorer lounge, dining room, bar and other public areas, will be completely refurbished.
A hallmark of Hurtigruten Expeditions will also be added: a scientific area where guests and the expedition team on board will offer an even deeper understanding of the natural landscapes as they discover the wonders all around them.
“Our unparalleled experience in the Galapagos has allowed us to design and perfect the ideal way to explore the archipelago. Our itineraries are based on the concept of seeing as many ‘Big 15’ species as possible, with exclusive visits to some island and sites. There really is no better way to see the islands,” says De Lara.
Galapagos Hurtigruten Expeditions
Exploration with no emissions
UNIQUE WILDLIFE: The Galapagos Islands are home to more than 9,000 species of wildlife, many of which are native only to the remote archipelago. One of the top experiences is seeing the sea lions on Espanola Island in the Galapagos.
Both companies share common values of investing in sustainability and all Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises in the Galapagos are carbon neutral. The guests on board Hurtigruten Expeditions cruises will directly contribute to the protection of forests and biodiversity in northwestern Ecuador, named a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2018.
“The Galapagos have long been considered one of the largest natural sanctuaries in the world. The islands are wild, isolated, diverse and safe. As with all of our destinations, we will work closely with local communities to ensure we play a positive role in long-term sustainability,” said Lassesen. Highlights of the cruise include exploring the giant tortoise breeding center, proximity to sea lions and land iguanas, bird watching, kayaking and snorkeling, as well as daily lessons to better understand the islands, their history and the animal population that lives both above and below the sea.
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