Wondering what it is like to cruise on a luxury vessel these days? This month Kristen Meckem Travel set out to experience the Galapagos on Silversea’s newest ship, the Silver Origin, a 100-guest luxury expedition ship.  Kristen Meckem Travel is a boutique mother-daughter travel business and Volume 8 Scout who plans enriching, luxury travel worldwide and is sharing her recent travel experience, The Galapagos, with The Scout Guide Jackson Hole.

The Galapagos is a volcanic archipelago consisting of 18 islands. It is an exceptional place with a plethora of plant and animal species, and there is nowhere else like it in the world. Since I had not visited since 1974, I was eager to see it again – Kristen Meckem

The goals of travel these days are to be safe, for the trip to be as seamless as possible, and to still have an unforgettable and extraordinary experience.  

Our pre-trip check list began with a rapid PCR test. While this is not required for Ecuador, we took one anyway. Why is it a good idea to get a PCR test even when it is not required? Country entry requirements change all the time, gate agents get conflicting information, and with air itineraries changing frequently, it is always a possibility to get re-routed through a country that requires a negative test. These are all very good reasons to get tested before you go. We always recommend it. This helps to keep your experience more seamless. (We were, in fact, asked to show our negative results during our layover in Houston for our Panama connection). Once you arrive in Guayaquil, you will be tested as a requirement to fly to the Galapagos. Vaccinations are also required to board the ship.

Who would like the Galapagos?

Those with an interest in the natural world. It’s a fairly active trip with hiking and snorkeling excursions offered every day. The degree of difficulty and exertion is up to the guest’s discretion, as there are daily options offered for excursions and activities (from easy to challenging).  

What is the best time of year to go?

Excursions are offered throughout the year. We visited during the dry season. It is cooler than the wet season, there is less humidity, there is more animal activity (August-October), and there are less flies. The wet season is warmer, there are more flowers and vegetation, and the water is slightly warmer for snorkeling.

How was the crew and the food?

Exceptional! The crew and staff were predominantly Ecuadorian, from Guayaquil and Quito. The guides and naturalists were mostly from The Galapagos. Our experience was enhanced by their culture, knowledge, and passion. Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, and the attention to food allergy and restrictions was outstanding. Abigail has celiac disease with zero tolerance to cross-contamination, and they always greeted her and ensured that all of her meals were safe.

 What is a typical day on the boat?

We started every morning with room service delivered by our butler. (Our butler, Fernanda, was always on hand to answer any question, deliver any treat or meal, take away laundry, and stock the fridge with our favorite beverages). While enjoying a hot cup of coffee with steamed cream, we reviewed our printed schedule of the days activities and decided which activities we would like to do. Each morning brought a new destination, and the activities typically included snorkeling, (some deep water and some from the beach) kayaking, hiking, and lectures.

What else is there to do on and off the boat ?

After swimming with sea lions and turtles, we returned to the boat for lunch. A glass of hand-selected wine paired with lunch? Absolutely. You’re on vacation!  

Then, we were off to an adventure hike in the afternoon. Our dry landing in the zodiac brought us up close with various species of animals. Sometimes they were marine iguanas and sea lions, and sometimes we got to see albatross babies and nesting Blue-footed Boobies.  

Since we had taken a brief iPhone photography class earlier in the week with the professional photographer onboard, we captured our viewings with a new eye and skillset. Back onboard–with a cocktail in hand–we enjoyed a lecture on the Galapagos Penguins, a destination briefing for the following day, then dinner at the grill or in the dining room. Then, it was sweet dreams in a beautiful and comfortable suite that was thoughtfully prepared for bedtime with turn-down service.

 

The Galapagos can be an accessible destination in the most luxurious of settings. From an expert selection of wines paired with each meal to deep water snorkeling with brilliant guides, this is a destination adventure-lovers, animal enthusiasts and avid travelers won’t want to miss. We felt like our experience was unforgettable and extraordinary. Does it sound like the Galapagos is the place for you?

 Kristen Meckem Travel 541.728.8579 @kristenmeckemtravel to submit an inquiry click here….

Kristen Meckem Travel is an independent affiliate of Brownell, a Virtuoso member agency located in Jackson Hole, WY and Lake Oswego, Oregon.