“Snorkeling with sea lion pups, penguins, and turtles, and being welcomed back aboard the Elite with a warm towel and a tropical drink, was pure heaven,” commented Knowmad Trip Specialist Olivia about her recent visit.
Much like its wildlife, the experience of exploring the remote islands of the Galapagos by boat is entirely unique. Small ships with a maximum of 16 passengers allow for flexible and tailored experiences, and the catamaran layout increases stability and offers generous common spaces. The Elite Galapagos catamaran is one of our top picks, known for its top-shelf naturalists, spacious design, and exceptional itinerary routes.
WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT THE ELITE GALAPAGOS CATAMARAN?
- There is one smaller cabin used for singles in odd number groups which does not have a single supplement cost, making it a killer value
- Floor to ceiling sliding doors make for an indoor-outdoor feel and incredible lighting
- The catamaran boasts large cabins with private balconies and additional sitting areas, both inside and outside
- Modern, spacious, open-plan sofa, bar and eating area
- Various outdoor seating areas on different decks
- Outdoor bar & eating area
- Jacuzzi for those wanting to relax
- Relaxed buffet lunches, with more formal table service dinners in the evenings creates a perfect balance
- Shared dinner tables of 8 give rise to a social feel and allow you to get to know other passengers
- See-through kayaks and paddleboards are available to use
WHY IS IT ONE OF MY FAVORITE GALAPAGOS EXPEDITION CATAMARANS?
- Extremely knowledgeable naturalist guides
- Spacious cabins, private balconies, and glass sliding doors
- Multiple different itinerary durations, all with the most sought-after visitor spots
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER ELITE?
- Couples – For those wanting privacy, private balconies give a cozy and romantic feel
- Families – Connecting single & double rooms are ideal for couples with kids
- Odd number group sizes – Take advantage of the smaller, singles cabin without paying extra for a single-supplement
BIGGEST MIND-BLOWING MOMENT
- Snorkeling with playful sea lion pups, turtles, sharks, and beautiful reef fish
INSIDER TIPS
- Lower deck cabins near the front are noisier, since you can hear the anchor going up and down; opt for ones closer to the back
- GoPros are available to use on board, but bring your own memory card
- Endemic, a very similar ship to Elite, is another excellent option. If one is full, check the other. If looking for a lower price point, Ocean Spray is part of the same fleet and has a “luxury level experience on a first class boat”.
EXPEDITION OPTIONS
- Elite offers 3, 4, and 7 night itineraries; check out Endemic for a 5 night option
CABIN COMPARISONS
- Lower deck – On the lower deck you can connect two double cabins on either side
- Upper deck – Santa Fé & Floreana are a single cabin and a double cabin that can connect
HOW TO FIT IT INTO A TRIP
4-night options combine well with a couple of nights land-based (our top picks are Galapagos Safari Camp and Montemar), while 7-night options stand alone. Knowmad recommends, as a minimum, 2 nights in Quito on the front end of your trip. Also consider adding additional mainland Ecuador time to your trip such as a few nights at Hacienda Zuleta, a couple of nights in the cloud forest at Mashpi Lodge, or a visit to the Amazon at Napo Wildlife Center. Explore Knowmad’s tips for planning a Galapagos trip.
Jordan is Co-Founder of Knowmad Adventures, which specializes in private, custom trips to South America. He’s been named a Condé Nast Traveler Experience Maker for Patagonia and recognized for multiple years by Travel + Leisure as a Top Travel Specialist for Patagonia, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Ecuador/Galapagos. “Travel challenges and inspires me, connecting me to nature and people around the world. I believe it makes us better—and better people make a better planet.” Read Jordan’s bio and meet the Knowmad team.
