Golden Galapagos Monique
In front of the volcano slopes of Isabela and Fernandina, in the west of the Galápagos archipelago, anchors the Monique, a catamaran with three decks and a maximum of 16 guests on board. You will be attended by a crew of nearly the same size, which includes your own Cruise Service Officer. The salon opens with large windows to the coastline, while the upper deck remains open to the wind, featuring a hot tub that faces the Pacific. The routes last from three to seven nights and lead through the bays of Santiago and Santa Cruz back. Solar panels and hybrid engines power the ship, and the shipping company has committed to CO2 neutrality.
Details
Country
Ecuador
Location
Galapagos Islands
Price
from €1,100 per night/person
Best travel time
year-round
Rooms
The Golden Staterooms are spread over two decks, four on the Main Deck and four on the Upper Deck. The upper ones are directly adjacent to the observation terraces, while the lower ones connect to the salon and dining area. All are equipped with a king-size bed or two single beds, so there are a maximum of 16 guests on board. Another cabin accommodates individual members of groups and families if the number of travelers doesn't add up; it is not intended for solo travelers.
Culinary
Epicure is the name of the culinary concept on board that combines regional flavors with internationally inspired dishes. Meals are served in the dining area on the Main Deck, where panoramic windows offer a view over the water, or al fresco on the Sky Deck. Each evening includes a craft beer or a glass of house wine, and the captain invites guests to a cocktail at the beginning and end of the trip. Dietary restrictions and preferences can be communicated before departure, and the kitchen will adjust the menus accordingly. A coffee machine is also available in every cabin.
Activities
The land excursions are accompanied by bilingual nature guides certified by the Galápagos National Park. Destinations include the beach of Las Bachas on Santa Cruz and the Tagus Cove on Isabela. On North Seymour, the focus is on the bird colonies, and in Sullivan Bay, it is on the solidified lava flows of Santiago. Sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available on board, as well as snorkeling equipment with wetsuits. Afterwards, it is quieter on the shaded terrace of the Upper Deck or on the observation platform at the bow.
Location
The Monique stays in the western and central part of the archipelago, where the bays of Santiago and Santa Cruz determine the route. The starting point is Baltra, from where the course runs over shorter distances than with the large expedition ships. Surrounding it is the Galápagos National Park, a volcanic archipelago in the Pacific at the equator.
Contact person
Senior Travel Designer