Visiting the Galapagos was at the top of my bucket list, and this cruise was a dream come true. We got a chance to see all the wildlife we'd hoped for, plus more. The onboard naturalists did an excellent job of letting us know what to expect and guiding us on our shore expeditions.
The all-Ecuadorian staff provided gracious hospitality, especially Ramon, the maitre d' who seemed to be everywhere, making sure everyone had an excellent dining experience. The ship was small enough so that the staff all knew our names and preferences.
I expected an older crowd, but there were a lot of young families on this cruise. To fully enjoy a voyage like this one, you must be fit; all shore excursions and even embarkation/disembarkation were by Zodiac. Landings ashore were sometimes in water or on rocky coastline. The Zodiac crew and expedition team did a great job of ensuring everyone's safety, despite some rough seas one day.
The cabin was called a "suite," and the cabin steward a butler, but it really wasn't much bigger or different than our "staterooms" on other ships. But the accommodations were attractive and comfortable, and we had everything we needed. A stocked mini-bar included with the price was a nice perk.As others have said, the ship could use a makeover, and in fact, it will be going into dry dock soon.