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Ecoventura that operates an environmentally
friendly fleet of small expedition yachts in the Galapagos Islands plans to
debut the region’s newest ship in early 2016.
 While
construction of the new motor vessel is underway at the shipyard in Guayaquil,
Ecuador, Ecoventura is now taking bookings for MV Origin’s inaugural cruise Jan.
3, 2016. When launched she will be the newest and most comfortable 20-passenger
yacht operating in Galapagos. The vessel will be owned by Ecoventura, a leader
in social and environmental responsibility with over two decades of experience
in sustainable tourism.
Ecoventura founder and owner Santiago Dunn has a vision for his company’s newest
addition.
“We are exploring ways to make the Origin the most comfortable and
environmentally efficient yacht in Galapagos. Our first goal is to reduce fossil
fuel consumption by 45 percent (from 1800 gallons to 1000 gallons per week),” he
explains. “This is no simple achievement when you consider our plans to sail at
12 knots on two engines so that guests can spend as much time as possible at
each visitor site.”
MV Origin, designed for guests with a highly evolved lifestyle, will combine
modern sophistication and a high level of comfort and service, with quality
guided land excursions in small groups, gastronomical experiences, exciting
physical activities and a dose of intellectual science for a life enriching
experience. A veteran crew supervised by a master-level captain, two expert
naturalist guides and a concierge will be at the beck and call of guests. Social
areas offer private moments on board with a library, boutique, computer station,
lounge areas, dining room, bar, Jacuzzi, sun deck, recliners and wet bar.
Guests aboard Origin will enjoy locally sourced, healthy, gourmet-style menus
designed by top local chefs and creatively prepared by Ecoventura’s culinary
school trained chefs. Some lunches will be served al fresco on deck. Passengers
will have an open bar policy, including wine and local beer.
The vessel will feature 10 deluxe staterooms all located on the main deck with
panoramic windows and private bathroom. Each stateroom is 140 square feet, with
two twin beds that convert to a king, two connecting cabins, two triples, fine
linens, bathrobes, satellite TV, and more.
Guests wishing to stay in shape will enjoy a fitness center with cardio
equipment. The services of a professional masseuse can also be arranged at an
additional charge on private charters only. Twice daily cabin cleanings are
provided. Laundry service is also available. Guide lectures, cooking
demonstrations and yoga will be part of the on-ship fun.
Ecoventura’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Doris Welsh, explained that MV
Origin rates reflecting a premium class vessel will be higher than those on its
three existing first class vessels, the Eric, Flamingo and Letty. Rates for an
eight-day all-inclusive cruise include cabin accommodation, all meals and
snacks, all beverages including open bar, Captain’s welcome and farewell party,
guided shore excursions, services of a concierge, use of wet suits, snorkeling
equipment, stand-up paddle boards and sea kayaks, and transfers in the islands
between the airport and dock.
There are two distinct itineraries on weekly (Sundays), year-round departures
from the island of San Cristobal. The tours visit the most spectacular visitor
sites of the archipelago; western/northern and central/southern. |
