This New Superyacht in the Galápagos Welcomes Only 48 Guests for Unforgettable Wildlife Experiences and Breathtaking Islands

Having once ‘borrowed’ my dad’s National Geographic magazines to clip nature images for my school binders, sailing the Galápagos Islands for the first time aboard Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Islander II feels like a dream come true.

“This region is like the ocean’s nursery,” noted naturalist Ixora Berdonces from Santa Cruz, the most populated island of the archipelago. She gestured toward the mangrove habitat of Black Turtle Cove as if conducting an orchestra. Perhaps 'playground' is a better term, considering all the activity happening in this part off Santa Cruz. I was on a small Zodiac motorboat excursion with 11 fellow travelers aboard the National Geographic Islander II, eagerly pointing out every animal we saw.

Turtle alert! Pacific green sea turtles surfaced, giving the ocean a friendly thumbs-up. Frigate birds! Above us, these birds, resembling pterodactyls, soared on massive wings. Blue-footed booby! The birds swooped down sharply, diving for fish.

The Zodiac glided past lengthy natural jetties of grass-lined black volcanic rock, where bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs scurried about. Our guide, Daniel, maneuvered deeper into the labyrinth of red mangroves, then cut the engine, enveloping us in silence, broken only by the occasional squawk of a pelican. Off the coast of Santa Cruz Island, we found ourselves 600 miles from mainland Ecuador — yet it felt as if we were the only humans in existence.

Berdonces mentioned that only four generations have set foot on these islands, which makes the wildlife ‘ecologically naïve’ and unafraid of human presence. We experienced this firsthand when sea lions approached us while we snorkeled near Isabela, weaving through groups of sunbathing marine iguanas on Fernandina Island. We felt seamlessly integrated into nature. Our week-long journey aboard the National Geographic Islander II was just beginning.

Cynics might dismiss the term ‘expedition’ as just marketing fluff. However, for those who enjoy a more relaxed cruising experience, be aware: this journey is quite fast-paced, as the 6 a.m. wake-up calls quickly proved, although I appreciated the insights gained from the busy itinerary.

Sven Lindblad, chairman of Lindblad Expeditions and son of Lars-Eric, who led the first ecotourism trip for non-researchers to the Galápagos in 1967, explained, “Cruises tend to focus on the ship itself and the onboard activities and entertainment. In contrast, an expedition emphasizes exploration outward. The ship functions as a base camp for that purpose. We operate in remote areas, without relying on any shore-based infrastructure.”

That being said, I certainly wasn’t roughing it. The 280-foot National Geographic Islander II feels more like a boutique hotel than a traditional ship, where guests can enjoy craft cocktails or relax in hammocks on the spacious teak decks, soothed by the ocean’s rhythm. Formerly a superyacht, it underwent a complete transformation before its inaugural voyage in August 2022, featuring 26 suites for just 48 guests, ensuring a one-to-one crew-to-passenger ratio.

Every suite features two twin beds that can be combined into a king-size bed, luxurious marble bathrooms with double sinks, and comfortable seating areas. A flat-screen TV is provided, mainly to showcase the daily itinerary, but don't expect to watch much TV with the stunning ocean views available through the expansive windows. In-room espresso machines are just as vital for those early mornings as the cheerful wake-up calls from expedition leader Gaby Bohorquez.

You can also relax in the sauna, take a dip in the plunge pool, or consult the onboard wellness expert Estefania Mateljan for a muscle rub after a day of exploring. The cozy public areas pay tribute to the striking blue feet of the famous blue-footed boobies, reflected in the furniture and decor of the library and the intimate Cove lounge, which serves as a lively spot for pre-dinner drinks, informational sessions, and lectures by researchers.

At the Yacht Club restaurant, the inviting blue-upholstered banquettes await diners with meals featuring locally sourced and sustainable dishes inspired by the four regions of Ecuador. Think duck breast and South American cazuela stew made with wild Pacific wahoo and mashed green plantains, topped off with passionfruit cheesecake and homemade ice cream. Despite the elegant ambiance, I felt completely at ease in my hiking cargo pants and worn boots (the packing list is refreshingly practical).

Throughout the week, we were continually reminded of the fragile ecosystem of the islands. Our expedition leaders emphasized the necessity of respecting the wildlife by giving them space, leaving no trace behind, and taking nothing with us. I felt reassured knowing that Lindblad Expeditions has been active in the region since the 1960s, working towards conservation, research, and education while maintaining carbon neutrality.

The brand also allocates rooms on each expedition for researchers and Ecuadorian naturalists, including Berdonces, who was selected by the Ecuadorian government to lead the National Marine Ecosystem Cleaning Project before joining Lindblad.

“This is their home,” Berdonces remarked on our second day as our bus navigated a dirt road on Santa Cruz Island. “We are merely guests here.” Upon arriving at the family-run El Manzanillo ranch, where numerous giant tortoises wandered the expansive grounds, she pointed to their shells. The age of a tortoise can be determined by the ridges on its shell; we met one that was likely over 90, according to Berdonces. For animals that can live beyond 100 years, we were just transient visitors. Occasionally, they would huff and retreat into their shells, but mostly, they paid us no mind.

Following a snorkeling safety briefing in the lounge, I inquired what Lindblad hoped guests would gain from the excursion. “I always hope for a deeper appreciation of natural systems, as it’s crucial for us as humans to transform our relationship with the environment,” he responded.

That sense of reverence washed over me after a snorkeling trip to the small island of Rabida, where I spotted a group of 15 vibrant pink flamingos at a lagoon. One bird spread its black-tipped wings, bobbed its head, and shuffled to the side. Soon, all 15 birds were dancing in unison.

Prices for the eight-day Wild Galápagos Escape aboard the National Geographic Islander II by Lindblad Expeditions begin at $9,390 per person.