Our expedition on The Evolution far exceeded our expectations. We selected Quasar largely on the basis of its various awards, distinctions, and online reviews. We wanted to travel on a small vessel. We benefitted from the incredible ratio of 28 crew for 24 passengers! Three knowledgeable naturalists and a doctor were on board. We were impressed by impeccable and friendly service from the hospitable and capable crew.
Our experience was more like a safari adventure than a cruise. Most days passengers could take beach walks, lava hikes, snorkel and kayak. Every day was thrilling and offered something new. We swam with penguins, octopus, shark, mating sea turtles, and sting rays. We saw nursing sea lions, dolphins, a Blue Whale (!), flamingos, iguanas, finches, mocking bird, blue-footed boobies, dancing albatross, and tortoises! We snorkeled in 6 different spots during a 7-night cruise of the Galapagos that took us to more than 8 islands. We went out in groups of 8-10 with knowledgable naturalists on outings that were organized efficiently and thoughtfully. Crew members were at the ready with wet suits, life vests, and towels.
The ship traveled long distances overnight and the captain welcomed visitors onto the bridge. In the evenings, naturalists offered lectures and gave briefings about the next day's itinerary.
Our cabin was spacious with shelves and closets for us to unpack. We had a porthole that opened in both our rest room and bedroom. Cabins were cleaned twice daily. We were delighted to find a bottle of champagne for our 25th anniversary and towels creatively shaped into animals.