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January 7, 2024

Aboard the Silver Origin, a small gem from Silversea Cruises, we embark on a discovery of one of the world’s most beautiful and remote archipelagos: the Galapagos Islands.

These small islands are scattered in the Pacific, approximately 1000 km from the Ecuadorian coast. Many of these islands are uninhabited and subject to strict entry and conservation criteria. It is one of the most remote destinations globally, excluding perhaps the two poles, and as such, it is highly sought after by travelers and, of course, by cruisers. Experiencing the Galapagos Islands aboard a ship like the Silver Origin contributes to making everything perfect and adds value to the journey.

Even before reaching the archipelago, Silversea Cruises ensures the comfort of guests with a stay in Quito, where they can familiarize themselves with Ecuadorian culture and explore the capital, a small jewel nestled at almost 3000 meters above sea level. The colonial historic center fascinates with its preservation, charmingly arranged houses, and magnificent churches. Here, guests can also taste typical dishes accompanied by local wines and immerse themselves in the engaging culture of this truly special capital. Silversea’s staff is always available even during these preparation phases, offering city tours and arranging everything necessary for the upcoming flight to San Cristobal, the embarkation point on the Silver Origin.

The flight to the Galapagos first stops in Guayaquil, a large city on the Ecuadorian coast, which we will have the opportunity to visit on the return. Additional guests board the plane here before taking off over the Pacific on a beautiful day in early November. It is always exciting when, after so much blue, land comes into view from the windows: the sea crashes forcefully against the eastern shores of San Cristobal, and after a few minutes, we finally set foot on the infamous Galapagos Islands.

Before boarding, we quickly visit the streets of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, one of the more populous settlements in the archipelago. The warm climate and sun welcome us as we approach the embarkation pier. The impact with the first sea lions is exciting; many of them await us on the dock, between one zodiac and another. Before reaching the ship, we also take advantage of the zodiac navigation to encounter other sea lions on boats offshore and get to know another characteristic animal of some of these islands, the blue-footed booby, unmistakable with its blue feet.

Boarding Silver Origin means immersing oneself in an oasis of elegance, luxury, and relaxation. Spacious and modern spaces, helpful and courteous staff, a suite with a splendid sea view – a reward that justifies the length of the journey to reach these remote lands. The first afternoon on board passes quickly with lunch at The Grill, a tour of the ship, and the first exciting navigation, skirting Kicker Rock at dusk. These imposing rocks rise high from the cobalt blue sea, tinted ochre by the sunset, serving as the backdrop to our first onboard aperitif, among old friends and new acquaintances.

A week in the Galapagos Islands passes too quickly. The days that follow are hectic, filled with countless discoveries, breathtaking landscapes, indescribable swims, and, above all, a close encounter with the power of nature. Perhaps the names of the islands are easily forgotten, but the gazes of the sea lions, the confidence of the iguanas, the schools of fish, and the numerous birds are never forgotten. The onboard guides, local specialists who describe the fauna with passion, play a crucial role, engaging guests and making them feel comfortable in these lands so far from civilization.

But the Galapagos Islands are also landscapes, as beautiful as they are austere and solemn, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity that has molded these lands in continuous evolution. Walking on lava fields or deserted beaches conveys sensations that can only be experienced in rare environments like this. Silversea Cruises’ expedition cruises do not have a written and planned itinerary. The concept of stops, schedules, and hours does not adapt to these remote places, where everything is subject to the whims of nature, expressed through both weather and sea conditions. The philosophy is always to allow guests to spend as much time ashore as possible, to fully enjoy their presence in these unique places. The right mix of more challenging hikes and leisurely walks makes up the daily programs, offering the opportunity to see landscapes that are very different from each other, even if just a few kilometers apart.

The first impact with the reality of the Galapagos is Bartolomé Island, where a walk introduces us to the arid volcanic nature, some cacti, and the first animals, mainly iguanas. The contribution of local guides is crucial on a journey like the one we were fortunate to experience. Their explanations, born from their experience and passion, are always entertaining and interesting, creating a sense of group and familiarity with all guests.

Trying to convey what was observed in these few days is difficult because it is an immersion in many different places, with frenetic and exhilarating rhythms, from hills to seabeds, retracing the history and origins of these enchanting islands. In the comfort of Silver Origin, where guests are cared for and pampered by an truly incredible crew, we continue the journey to Buccaneer Cove, discovering the first marine iguanas, turtles, and double-coated sea lions. Next is Isabela Island, where we visit Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza, and stroll through almost lunar landscapes. The next day, we explore Tagus Cove, where we breathe in the atmosphere of piracy, followed by the truly unique experience of venturing into Elizabeth Bay, among turtles, rays, colorful birds, and plants plunging into the water. Floreana Island impresses us with its idyllic beaches, and we have fun browsing through postcards left at the famous Post Office in the bay of the same name. Climbing to Cormorant Point allows us to observe the island from above and its unstoppable volcanic activity.

Relaxing walks alternate with fabulous swims, all perfectly organized by the Silver Origin crew and guides, offering the opportunity to be just a few centimeters away from turtles, sea lions, and schools of fish.

After days immersed in nature alone, the impact with Puerto Ayora is lively and fun. Walking through the city center reminds us of the presence of a kind and helpful population, aware of the treasure it preserves thanks to the protection and access rules of the archipelago. We are on Santa Cruz Island, where we get up close with land turtles and coffee plantations before living a truly unique experience. As part of Silversea Cruises’ S.A.L.T. project, we experience a lunch served inside a lava tunnel after a short walk through the heart of the earth. Unique dishes take us into the history and local culture, in a truly unique location.

A week aboard Silver Origin passes quickly, and the ship returns to San Cristobal for disembarkation and the return to Ecuador. We still have the opportunity to visit Guayaquil, an extraordinary city divided between the oldest colonial center, climbing towards a hill, and the waterfront, which has been enhanced for about twenty years, making it a beautiful environment with parks, shops, and attractions.

The ship, specifically built by Silversea Cruises for this destination, adds significant value to the experience. Silver Origin can accommodate up to 100 passengers, served by an impressive 90 crew members, a ratio indicative of the quality of service offered. Onboard, there are only suites of various sizes and positions, all extremely comfortable and equipped with personalized service and a butler. The lounge and outdoor decks are the ideal places to relax between excursions, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and unique views of the islands that guests have the privilege of getting to know.

The Restaurant and The Grill are the two dining options on board, both focused on local tradition, offering, along with international alternatives, some dishes from Ecuadorian and Galapagueña culture. The Spa and Fitness Center represent other moments of relaxation on board, and the Jacuzzi located aft on the outdoor deck is a must, where you can savor a drink at sunset, with eyes full of the wonders experienced on these islands.

In the evening at the Explorer Lounge, we discuss what we observed during the day and the plans for tomorrow, eager to discover the novelties that islands so close to each other can offer each time. The Fireplace, a small round stove located aft, outside the lounge, offers magical moments of discussion while Silver Origin sails towards the next destination.

The Galapagos Islands are a treasure to be discovered slowly and do not disappoint the expectations of travelers who have long dreamed of such itineraries. On the contrary, they are capable of slowly captivating and enchanting you, leaving a great desire for exploration and deepening, which translates into the urge to return as soon as possible. An experience that might seem like a once-in-a-lifetime one, and yet, from the first day after returning home, you immediately wish to do it again.

Don’t miss further news, updates, and reviews of Silversea Cruises on Cruising Journal, complete with photos, videos, and discounted cruises.

Gabriele Bassi

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