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Galapagos Master – Overview & highlights.

The M/Y Galapagos Master, formerly the “Deep Blue,” underwent a luxurious interior refit in May 2015, offering exceptional comfort and safety standards. With a capacity for 16 divers, it offers 7-night and 10-night dive trips, spending at least three days around Darwin and Wolf Islands, with land excursions.

Featuring eight air-conditioned cabins across three decks, each cabin offers stunning views and private en-suite bathrooms. The indoor lounge provides relaxation, while the dining area and adjacent cocktail bar offer delectable meals.

Photographers benefit from the indoor camera set-up station and ample storage space. Dive equipment set up areas, rinse tanks, and shower facilities enhance the diving experience.

Guests can relax on the top-level sundeck and upper-level bow area. The crew of 11, including dive masters, ensures safety and comfort throughout the journey.

With an official license and compliance with environmental regulations, the yacht ensures safety with GPS, VHF radios, life rafts, and emergency oxygen. Travelers can rest assured of utmost protection during their Galapagos expedition.

Highlights

The M/Y Galapagos Master, formerly the “Deep Blue,” underwent a luxurious interior refit in May 2015, offering exceptional comfort and safety standards. With a capacity for 16 divers, it offers 7-night and 10-night dive trips, spending at least three days around Darwin and Wolf Islands, with land excursions.

Featuring eight air-conditioned cabins across three decks, each cabin offers stunning views and private en-suite bathrooms. The indoor lounge provides relaxation, while the dining area and adjacent cocktail bar offer delectable meals.

Photographers benefit from the indoor camera set-up station and ample storage space. Dive equipment set up areas, rinse tanks, and shower facilities enhance the diving experience.

Guests can relax on the top-level sundeck and upper-level bow area. The crew of 11, including dive masters, ensures safety and comfort throughout the journey.

With an official license and compliance with environmental regulations, the yacht ensures safety with GPS, VHF radios, life rafts, and emergency oxygen. Travelers can rest assured of utmost protection during their Galapagos expedition.

Highlights

galapagos master motor vessel 1200x600 1
gallery 5 428 master sundeck1 1200x600 1
gallery 4 428 master sundeck 1200x600 1
gallery 3 428 master diningroom 1200x600 1
gallery 2 428 master cabins1 1200x600 1
gallery 1 428 master cabins 1200x600 1

Galapagos Master Yacht Itineraries

San Cristobal Island: Arrival and transfer to boat // Lobos Island: 1 dive

AM: In the morning you will fly from either Quito or Guayaquil (on the Ecuadorian mainland) to the Galapagos Islands. At the airport on San Cristobal Island, after you will pay your entrance fee to the national park, a member of the ship's crew will welcome you and accompany you to your diving yacht: the M/Y Galapagos Master.

PM: After boarding at San Cristobal the Galapagos Master cruises to Isla Lobos (off San Cristobal Island) for your check out dive. The sheltered bay provides an excellent shallow spot, at a max depth of 9 m. (30 ft.), in which to check your dive gear but also become acquainted with some of the local marine life. Sea lions playfully interact with divers, whilst sightings of turtles and rays are also common. Sea iguanas may be spotted too.

AM: Off Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrion is a boulder-strewn reef that provides a superb introduction to some of the larger pelagics we expect to see in the Galapagos, including Whitetip reef sharks but also the occasional hammerhead and Galapagos shark. Sea lions are ever-present and there is the opportunity for some macro critter spotting with sightings of neon nudibranchs. The wall has an average depth of 15 m. (50 ft.) and mild-to-medium current is to be expected.

PM: After a dry landing on North Seymour Island, we will take a short walk along its coast, where you will encounter Swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions and Cliff crabs. This part of Seymour Island is also known for being a major nesting site for Blue-footed boobies and one of the largest colonies of Magnificent frigatebirds (a species different from the Great frigatebird). As you enjoy this relaxing hike around various nesting sites, you can also spot both of the endemic species of iguanas: marine iguanas and land iguanas.

AM: Darwin Island, an extinct volcano reaching 165 m. (490 ft.) above sea level, was named in honor of naturalist Charles Darwin. It is amongst the smallest island within the Galapagos Archipelago and like Wolf Island, no land visits are permitted. Perhaps the most famed dive site is “Darwin’s Arch” which provides an amazing drift dive along the wall at an average depth of just 9 meters. Medium to strong currents are to be expected but bring with them hammerheads, black tips, silky and Galapagos sharks – and in large numbers! Schools of jacks are a common sight, along with turtles, angelfish and moray eels. Occasional sightings of tiger sharks, manta rays and bottlenose dolphins make for a thrilling time spent here. Whale sharks may also be seen between May-November.

AM: 2 morning dives and 2 afternoon dives off Darwin Island.

AM: Wolf Island, named after the German geologist Theodor Wolf, is an extinct volcano reaches 253 m. (780 ft.) above sea level and lies some 160 km (100 miles) northwest of Isabela Island. Land visits are not permitted however bird life, including red-footed boobies and vampire finch, may be spotted from the boat. For our dives here we choose from a selection of reefs and walls, most having typically medium to strong currents where the use of gloves and reef hooks is advised. Schooling pelagics are the main draw with sightings of hammerheads, white tips and Galapagos sharks at each site. During the season (May-November) whale sharks may also be seen here. Divers should also be on the lookout for red-lipped batfish, barracudas, moray eels and dolphins!

AM: Alternatively known as "The Ice Box", due to its chilling thermoclines, Punta Vicente Ramon Roca -- off the northwest coast of Isabela Island – offers a wall drift dive, along which mola mola can be spotted. The occasional Port Jackson shark may also be seen as well as the endemic Camotillo (White spotted sand bass). Yet Punta Vicente Roca is not just for the larger marine life but is also a fantastic place to spot pacific seahorses, frogfish, octopus, nudibranchs, flat worms and a variety of sponges. We stick to a maximum depth of 30 m. (100 ft.) with an average of 18 m. (60 ft.) whilst enjoying some milder currents!

AM: Off Santiago Island is located Cousin's Rock. One of the most photographically productive dives of the region, Cousin's Rock is formed of coral covered rock and lava flow. Sea fans, hydroid bushes, red sponges and small hard corals encrust ledges and overhangs, sheltering hawkfish, nudibranchs, frogfish and seahorses. Plenty of larger visitors are also seen including giant manta and mobula rays, spotted eagle rays and hammerhead sharks. The wall drops beyond 30 m. (100 ft.) but rises up shallow to just 3 m. (10 ft.) providing an ideal spot to end your dive playing with the sea lions.

PM: In the afternoon we will go to the Santa Cruz Highlands and see "The Twins" (twin craters), which will be explained by your naturalist guide. These craters are surrounded by scalesia forest, where also live Ruby tyrants and small and large Tree finches.

Later this afternoon, we will head for one of the most visited spots in the islands. Located on Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Station is primarily an international scientific research station situated on the outskirts of Puerto Ayora. You will be taken to its visitor center to learn about the geology, climate, natural history and the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. However, the highlight of your visit here will undoubtedly be the research facility’s Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center, which breeds giant tortoises. These enormous and slow-moving reptiles can live up to 150 years and weigh between 250 and 300 kg. Approaching them in their humid and forested spaces is always an inspiring adventure. For decades, the Fausto Center was home to “Lonesome George,” who finally died in 2012 as the last of his particular species. The tortoises you will see here are accustomed to humans, so it’s an excellent spot for visitors to take photographs with them. Remember that looking at the animals is allowed, but touching is not; and it’s absolutely forbidden to jump over the walls or open the pen doors at any time.

AM: At the port of Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of Ecuador’s Galapagos Province, we will visit San Cristobal Island’s Interpretation Center, an excellent place to learn about the natural and settlement history of the archipelago. Here you will discover displays that provide information about the volcanic origins of the islands, the ocean’s currents, the archipelago’s climate, and facts concerning the arrival of different species. The islands’ human history is also showcased, chronologically narrating the most significant events related to the discovery and settlements of the Galapagos.

From the dock on San Cristobal Island, we will take a short bus ride to the airport for your flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland. Enjoy the last view of the “enchanted islands,” a unique paradise with fascinating natural highlights.

Price per person

Lower Deck (Double)

USD$ 5475

Upper Deck (Double)

USD$ 5575

Included in the price

  • All transfers in the Galapagos Islands
  • Cruise on board the M/Y Galapagos Master in a double cabin, with private bathroom
  • Full board, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Water, coffee or tea during the cruise
  • Services of a naturalist guide and dive master

Not included in the price

  • Flights (between the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador)
  • Entrance fee to Galápagos National Park
  • Transit Card
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Single supplement
  • Personal dive equipment
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses and insurance

San Cristobal Island: Arrival and transfer to boat // Lobos Island - 1 dive)

AM: In the morning you will fly from either Quito or Guayaquil (on the Ecuadorian mainland) to the Galapagos Islands. At the airport on San Cristobal Island, after you will pay your entrance fee to the national park, a member of the ship's crew will welcome you and accompany you to your diving yacht: the M/Y Galapagos Master.

PM: After boarding at San Cristobal the Galapagos Master cruises to Isla Lobos (off San Cristobal Island) for your check out dive. The sheltered bay provides an excellent shallow spot, at a max depth of 9 m. (30 ft.), in which to check your dive gear but also become acquainted with some of the local marine life. Sea lions playfully interact with divers, whilst sightings of turtles and rays are also common. Sea iguanas may be spotted too.

AM: Off Santa Cruz Island, Punta Carrion is a boulder-strewn reef that provides a superb introduction to some of the larger pelagics we expect to see in the Galapagos, including Whitetip reef sharks but also the occasional hammerhead and Galapagos shark. Sea lions are ever-present and there is the opportunity for some macro critter spotting with sightings of neon nudibranchs. The wall has an average depth of 15 m. (50 ft.) and mild-to-medium current is to be expected.

PM: After a dry landing on North Seymour Island, we will take a short walk along its coast, where you will encounter Swallow-tailed gulls, sea lions and Cliff crabs. This part of Seymour Island is also known for being a major nesting site for Blue-footed boobies and one of the largest colonies of Magnificent frigatebirds (a species different from the Great frigatebird). As you enjoy this relaxing hike around various nesting sites, you can also spot both of the endemic species of iguanas: marine iguanas and land iguanas.

AM: Darwin Island, an extinct volcano reaching 165 m. (490 ft.) above sea level, was named in honor of naturalist Charles Darwin. It is amongst the smallest island within the Galapagos Archipelago and like Wolf Island, no land visits are permitted. Perhaps the most famed dive site is “Darwin’s Arch” which provides an amazing drift dive along the wall at an average depth of just 9 m. Medium to strong currents are to be expected but bring with them hammerheads, black tips, silky and Galapagos sharks – and in large numbers! Schools of jacks are a common sight, along with turtles, angelfish and moray eels. Occasional sightings of tiger sharks, manta rays and bottlenose dolphins make for a thrilling time spent here. Whale sharks may also be seen between May-November.

AM: Continued diving off Darwin Island (2 morning dives and 2 afternoon dives)

AM: Wolf Island, named after the German geologist Theodor Wolf, is an extinct volcano reaches 253 m. (780 ft.) above sea level and lies some 160 km (100 miles) northwest of Isabela Island. Land visits are not permitted however bird life, including red-footed boobies and vampire finch, may be spotted from the boat. For our dives here we choose from a selection of reefs and walls, most having typically medium to strong currents where the use of gloves and reef hooks is advised. Schooling pelagics are the main draw with sightings of hammerheads, white tips and Galapagos sharks at each site. During the season (May-November) whale sharks may also be seen here. Divers should also be on the lookout for red-lipped batfish, barracudas, moray eels and dolphins!

AM: Continued diving off Wolf Island (2 dives in the morning / 2 dives in the afternoon)

AM: This morning we will make 2 dives at Roca Redonda (“Round Rock”). This underwater volcano, with its bubbling streams of natural gas (fumaroles) plays home to schools hammerheads sharks and barracuda. With typically strong, changeable currents and some down currents, the diving here is challenging, though with an average depth of 18m (60ft).

PM: Alternatively known as "The Ice Box", due to its chilling thermoclines, Punta Vicente Ramon Roca – off the northwest coast of Isabela Island – offers a wall drift dive, along which mola mola can be spotted. This afternoon we will make 2 dives here, where the occasional Port Jackson shark may also be seen as well as the endemic Camotillo (White-spotted sand bass). Punta Vicente Roca is not just for the larger marine life but is also a fantastic place to spot pacific seahorses, frogfish, octopus, nudibranchs, flatworms and a variety of sponges. We stick to a maximum depth of 30 m. (100 ft.) with an average of 18 m. (60 ft.) whilst enjoying some milder currents!

AM: Today we will make 4 dives off Cabo Douglas (“Douglas Cape”). Situated on the northwest point of Fernandina Island, this wall dive, with an average depth of 20 m. (70 ft.), offers something truly spectacular and is now famed for the feeding marine iguanas that congregate here along with sea lions, fur seals and speedy penguins!

AM: Today we will make 4 dives off Cabo Douglas (“Douglas Cape”). The craggy volcanic walls are covered with black coral bushes and the sheer variety of marine life is astounding. Sightings of manta, mobula and cownose rays are to be expected during the warm season (November - May). Meanwhile, shark varieties include scalloped hammerhead, Galapagos and white tips. Schools of chevron barracuda and black striped salema are regular visitors along with yellow-fin tuna and big eye jacks. And let's not forget the sea lions and turtles!

AM: Off Santiago Island is located Cousin's Rock. One of the most photographically productive dives of the region, Cousin's Rock is formed of coral covered rock and lava flow. Sea fans, hydroid bushes, red sponges and small hard corals encrust ledges and overhangs, sheltering hawkfish, nudibranchs, frogfish and seahorses. Plenty of larger visitors are also seen including giant manta and mobula rays, spotted eagle rays and hammerhead sharks. The wall drops beyond 30 m. (100 ft.) but rises up shallow to just 3 m. (10 ft.) providing an ideal spot to end your dive playing with the sea lions.

PM: In the afternoon we will go to the Santa Cruz Highlands and see "The Twins" (twin craters), which will be explained by your naturalist guide. These craters are surrounded by scalesia forest, where also live Ruby tyrants and small and large Tree finches. Later this afternoon, we will head for one of the most visited spots in the islands. Located on Santa Cruz Island, the Charles Darwin Research Station is primarily an international scientific research station situated on the outskirts of Puerto Ayora. You will be taken to its visitor center to learn about the geology, climate, natural history and the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. However, the highlight of your visit here will undoubtedly be the research facility’s Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center, which breeds giant tortoises. These enormous and slow-moving reptiles can live up to 150- 200 years and weigh between 250 and 300 kg. Approaching them in their humid and forested spaces is always an inspiring adventure. For decades, the Fausto Center was home to “Lonesome George,” who finally died in 2012 as the last of his particular species. The tortoises you will see here are accustomed to humans, so it’s an excellent spot for visitors to take photographs with them. Remember that looking at the animals is allowed, but touching is not; and it’s absolutely forbidden to jump over the walls or open the pen doors at any time.

AM: At the port of Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of Ecuador’s Galapagos Province, we will visit San Cristobal Island’s Interpretation Center, an excellent place to learn about the natural and settlement history of the archipelago. Here you will discover displays that provide information about the volcanic origins of the islands, the ocean’s currents, the archipelago’s climate, and facts concerning the arrival of different species. The islands’ human history is also showcased, chronologically narrating the most significant events related to the discovery and settlements of the Galapagos. From the dock on San Cristobal Island, we will take a short bus ride to the airport for your flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland. Enjoy the last view of the “enchanted islands,” a unique paradise with fascinating natural highlights.

Price per person

Double

USD$ 7075

Included in the price

  • All transfers in the Galapagos Islands
  • Cruise on board the M/Y Galapagos Master in a double cabin, with private bathroom
  • Full board, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Water, coffee or tea during the cruise
  • Services of a naturalist guide and dive master

Not included in the price

  • Flights (between the Galapagos Islands and mainland Ecuador)
  • Entrance fee to Galápagos National Park
  • Transit Card
  • Alcoholic and bottled beverages
  • Single supplement
  • Personal dive equipment
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses and insurance

Boat specifications

Technical Specifications:

  • Length: 32.3 meters (106 feet)
  • Speed: 12.5 knots
  • Crew and Staff: 11 crew including 2 dive masters/naturalist guides
  • Languages: English and Spanish
  • Safety Certification: automatic fired and smoke detection system; manual fire extinguishers and firefighting equipment, 406 EPIRB, safety flags and dive alerts, 2 life rafts, life jackets, a full complement of safety and rescue equipment, 1 radar Furuno 36 miles, satellite compass, GPS, and depth sounder.
  • Decks: 3 decks. Lower Deck – cabins and engine room; Main Deck – dining room and lounge; Upper Deck – cabins; the Bridge and open-air relaxation area.

Accommodations:

  • Capacity: 16 passengers in 8 twin cabins and 1 suite
  • Cabins: 4 Lower Deck Cabins – optional twin beds or double, and a porthole window; 1 Main Deck Deluxe Suite – queen bed, hairdryer, two picture windows; 4 Upper Deck Cabins with optional twin or double beds, and a picture window.
  • Features: Air conditioning, private bathrooms, storage space, bathrobes, shower gel, towels, wall fans, hairdryers

Facilities:

  • Air-conditioned salon with TV/DVD, dining area, sun deck, small library, cell phone communication, two camera tables, rinse tank, and equipment rental.
  • Dive deck facilities: Personal storage, equipment rinse tank, camera rinse tank, camera table, aqualung, aluminum tank and weights, steel tank, steel/Alutank, Valve fittings, compressors, nitrox bank system, surface marker buoys, nautilus lifeline

Galapagos Master Yacht Deck plans

The Galapagos Master Yacht offers thoughtfully designed decks that combine comfort, elegance, and functionality, from a panoramic sun deck to stylish lounges and open-air dining areas. Its modern staterooms and inviting social spaces create a relaxing and luxurious environment for an unforgettable cruising experience.

Galapagos Master Yacht Gallery

Explore the Galapagos Master Yacht through a curated gallery that showcases its elegant cabins, refined dining spaces, and onboard experiences. Each image captures the ship’s atmosphere, from relaxing moments to exciting adventures, inspiring your next journey at sea.

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FAQs about Galapagos Master Yacht

What is the Galapagos Master liveaboard?

The Galapagos Master is a modern liveaboard dive yacht built specifically for comfort and safety at sea. It offers spacious cabins with en-suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor lounges, and a dive deck designed for serious underwater explorers.

What dive experience is recommended?

The Galapagos Islands feature strong currents, variable visibility, and advanced dive conditions. For this reason, divers are strongly encouraged to hold Advanced Open Water certification and to have logged at least 50 dives before boarding the Galapagos Master.

Does the Galapagos Master offer nitrox?

Yes. Nitrox is available on the Galapagos Master for certified divers who want longer bottom times and safer profiles when diving in demanding conditions.

What itineraries does the Galapagos Master run?

The yacht typically offers 7- and 10-night itineraries. Routes include iconic sites like Wolf and Darwin Islands, Isabela, Fernandina, and Cabo Douglas, with opportunities to see hammerheads, whale sharks, manta rays, and marine iguanas.

What’s included in Galapagos Master prices?

Packages usually include accommodations, all meals and snacks, soft drinks, up to four dives per day, tanks and weights, dive guides, and select land excursions. Costs not included are flights, Galapagos park fees, gear rental, nitrox, alcoholic beverages, and crew gratuities.

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What Our Travelers Say About Us

Read verified reviews from travelers who have explored South America with us on Tripadvisor. Discover why our personalized journeys earn outstanding ratings.

Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Nicole C profile picture
Nicole C
24 Junio 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Wonderful trip We were so taken care of by Surtrek on a recent family trip to Equador and the Galapagos (travelers ages 8-77). Our Surtrek guide Maite worked with us to design a trip that focused on the items we wanted to be sure to see, and our timeframe and budget. Local guides and the boat tour she outsourced were wonderful. We felt so comfortable every step of the way for what would have otherwise been confusing travel. We definitely would recommend this company to others!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Journey12963557311 profile picture
Journey12963557311
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Unforgettable sensitive experience. Excellent!!!An unforgettable journey accompanied by the cordiality and professionalism of the company.Highly recommended, willing to repeat!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Edgardo Marcelo M profile picture
Edgardo Marcelo M
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Beautiful experience. Wonderful places. Very well explained by guides of admirable training. All very well. There are no details to improve. The absolute good disposition and kindness were unbeatable. Makes you want to return soon
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Elsa M profile picture
Elsa M
25 Febrero 2025
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
A dream trip The views was amazing. I took a lot of photos. Never seen animals, dream landscapes, amazing sea color. Luxury hotels, in Isabela by the beach, just steps from my room!!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Nick V profile picture
Nick V
17 Diciembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Ultimate fun, minimized hassles, amazing tour operation and travel agency I've had several people ask me what the highlight of our Quito, Ecuador and Galapagos Islands trip was, and frankly it's hard to pinpoint anyone thing so I tend to tell them: all 8 days! Our trip started with being greeted and picked up by our amazing travel agent, Maite. She was delightful from start to finish. Easy to communicate with via email, phone, and whatsapp. Maite consistently made sure we had what we needed. Surtrek supplied our driver, Christian, and our tour guide in Quito, Juan. Christian was a great driver. He knew the roads inside and out and we always felt safe. Juan probably knows everything about Ecuador -- and interestingly also Chicago! The time in Quito was fabulous. We enjoyed seeing the sites of the city and the cloud forest nearby. We ate delicious food and really had a treat with great weather. Maite and Christian got us to the airport for our trip to Galapagos and made sure we were smoothly through security. I've never had such personal service!Our time on the Horizon was fabulous. The staff onboard were top to bottom great. From the tour coordinator to the housekeeping to the culinary to the guide and of course the folks who drove the dinghys that got us to and from every activity. The food was top knotch with a lot of variety. The activities were fun and not overly strenuous, but also not lethargic. A nice balance.I was pleasantly surprised that in November there were no bugs, so no need for bug spray. Of course plenty of need for sun screen still! But the temps were great. High 70's and low 80's Fahrenheit. We saw basically everything in the Galapagos: penguins, blue and red footed boobies, frigate birds, owl, land and marine iguanas, sea lions everywhere, and of course the giant tortoises! During snorkeling we had [small and hammerhead] sharks in the water with us, sea lions in the water, schools of brilliant fish, and 1 amazing encounter with a sea turtle only feet away from my mask. It was breathtaking. Some folks say later in the summer is the best time because the water is clearer, but in our case the water was still quite clear and the animals were much closer to the surface, so it worked great. And the crew provided us with wet suits, so that helped with buoyancy and with warmth. After Galapagos we were shocked to have Maite and Christian back with us at the airport. We expected since our planned activities with Surtrek were done that we wouldn't see them again, but no they were there to meet us again and make sure we transited to our final hotel for a few hours sleep before the final trip home. It was a very pleasant surprise, and frankly just made it so much simpler than being "on our own".The coffee, the chocolate, the hummingbird sanctuary, all the beautiful sites. Dessert all the time. Just a really great trip!I'd go back to Ecuador in a heartbeat, and Surtrek is absolutely how I'd organize my trip to make it hassle free!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
TravelerPatch profile picture
TravelerPatch
20 Noviembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Oh, were there to be Six Stars to give! My friend and I were looking to do a boat-based Galapagos trip, as well as a few days in and around Quito. Normally, I don't much use tour companies, preferring to plan the trip mostly on my own. However, for a few reasons, and after some research, we ended up working with Maite at Surtrek to plan this trip. It was, simply, fantastic.From the start (and all the various questions over email) to the end (meeting us at the airport as we were headed back to the U.S., Surtrek (and, specially, Maite - and our guide, Juan and driver, Christian) was 100% top-notch, full recommend, no-doubt-about-it wonderful.Assuming you can book a flight to and from Quito, the rest you will not have to worry about one bit. They will work with you to tailor a trip exactly to your liking (we had a grand time doing just what we hoped to do) and, while on that trip, you'll have a blast. The enthusiasm and passion with which Juan lead the tours was unsurpassed. Christian was a great driver and, also, such fun. Maite was a true joy with which to work.I know this sounds a bit over the top, but it's also accurate. I fully recommend - trust me - you won't be disappointed.
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Laura M profile picture
Laura M
9 Noviembre 2024
Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5Verificada
Galapagos, Machu Picchu, and Easter Island! Everything about this trip was absolutely amazing. Surtrek arranged and organized everything for us - it was one of the best travel experiences we've had. We had guides and drivers who took very good care of us and made sure we got to see and do absolutely everything. I would HIGHLY recommend Surtrek for any South American travels!
Publicado en Tripadvisor Tripadvisor
Sangeetha M profile picture
Sangeetha M
21 Octubre 2024
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Amazing honeymoon trip to the Galapagos! We loved our trip with Surtrek! We worked closely with Fernando to plan our honeymoon to the Galapagos. We didn't know exactly what we wanted to do; whether it was a cruise or a land tour. But, we knew we needed to plan it relatively soon or the opportunity would slip through the cracks as we got busy with work travel and the holiday season that was approaching. Fernando provided several options to choose from with a combination of cruise and land options; all within our budget. He provided his insight and suggestions along the way, which was much appreciated! We ultimately chose a 7-day, 6-night luxury yacht with an additional 3 nights on the island to explore by ourselves. It took a little more than a week from the time I contacted Surtrek to the time we finalized/booked the trip, There was always someone to guide us every step of the way, which was also appreciated as neither of us spoke Spanish. All the logistics worked out perfectly. 10/10 would recommend!
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Donalyn R
28 Septiembre 2024
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The trip of a lifetime!! We just had the most amazing adventure and it was all thanks to Maite at Surtrek! She patiently listened and crafted the very best experience for my husband and I! We visited Mindo, Cotopaxi, Baños, the Napo Cultural Center in the Amazon, and took a cruise around the Western Galapagos islands. From start to finish, Maite was so kind, so patient, and attended to my every question and concern. This was to be a celebratory vacation for many reasons, but principally our 25th wedding anniversary. Maite shared this with some of our hosts and we experienced beautiful celebrations at the restaurants and hotels we stayed at. It was the trip of a lifetime and we were so well cared for. When I expressed concerns regarding the reported unrest in Ecuador, Maite was able to reassure me that all would be well and that we would be very safe. We always felt very secure and comfortable. The private transportation and guides, the beauty and nature we witnessed, everything was amazing!! I cannot recommend Surtrek highly enough. We came home with over 1,800 pictures! Absolutely incredible! While you may be able to find cheaper options for travel, the quality of our experience with Surtrek was absolutely worth the price. If you want a quality experience, Surtrek is a fantastic choice!
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Trail777667
21 Julio 2024
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Surtrek is Awesome When my wife & I were planning a trip to Galapagos and Peru, we contacted 3 or 4 different travel agencies. I found Surtrek to be the most helpful, knowledgeable, flexible and offered competitive pricing. I dealt directly with Ligia at Surtrek and cannot find enough words to describe the friendly and superior services she provided us. We had specific cities and sights we wanted to visit and Ligia mapped out an excellent itinerary for us, including hotels, flights, restaurants and sightseeing. We visited Quito, Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, in addition to an 8-day luxury cruise of the Galapagos islands. All arrangements, including flights, cruise, hotels, ground transportation, sight-seeing and guides were arranged by Surtrek. We were met at each arrival city by an expert guide and driver and the guide also helped us check in for our on-going flights at the end of each city tour. The guides were very knowledgeable, experienced and friendly, treated us very well and catered to our every need. Surtrek even helped secure reservations at high end restaurants in Lima, which are difficult to get unless booked well in advance. Surtrek made us alternate arrangements when one of our flights was canceled for mechanical reasons. Our trip lasted 18 days and all arrangements were flawless.To add a personal touch, Ligia treated us to a very nice lunch on our arrival in Quito. Thank you, Ligia, for making our Ecuador/Galapagos/Peru trip such a memorable, enjoyable and stress free one. I look forward to contacting you at Surtrek for our future South America travels.

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