Our luxury expedition sister ships, Origin and Theory, are the only vessels in the Galapagos Islands that sail under the prestigious Relais & Chateaux banner. So what does that mean?
A large family united by a commitment to quality
With 580 member properties, including hotels and boats, Relais & Châteaux encompasses all sorts of styles, cultures, and experiences. However, there are some qualities that all Relais & Chateaux properties have in common, embodying, as they do, the shared values of the association and its members: family-owned properties with a firm sense of place, a commitment to preserving the environment, all whilst offering one-of-a-kind experiences, second-to-none service and a culinary experience that can’t be beaten.
Fine dining aboard Theory where we have a flexible dining room configuration with seating from two in a private table up to 8 guests around a circular table
This vision is supported by Philippe Gombert, International President of Relais & Châteaux who says: “Whether chef, hotelier or restaurateur, every Relais & Châteaux member must be motivated by a passion for his or her craft. Each must share strong values and possess a human identity that is fully committed and driven by the desire to bring local cultures to life. ”
How do we apply these standards to our yachts?
Aside from select aesthetic touches such as textiles and color palettes, the Origin & Theory are identical luxury expedition yachts with 10 premium cabins that foster a sense of connectivity with the destination via panoramic views from all corners, and onboard amenities that include a concierge, fitness center, a sundeck with loungers and daybeds, a Jacuzzi, and sustainably sourced cuisine.
Our goal was to create an almost identical fleet that would offer passengers the same unparalleled and exclusive experience, and at the same time, an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers on their wavelength. In operating a fleet of identical luxury expedition yachts, we can place families with families, couples with couples, and so on, which fosters connectivity on a personal level between passengers.
Our sun deck has a BBQ grill, outdoor bar, tables and chairs for outside dining prepared on the grill and served al fresco.
Perfect for foodies
All our menus are a la carte and inspired by Relais & Chateaus with healthy & sustainable gastronomy. We are proud to offer an open bar policy and a highlight of the experience onboard our yachts includes our cooking demonstrations, after-excursion gourmet bites, and an afternoon tea service with pastries.
The added extras
Our ten designer staterooms feature panoramic windows with expansive unobstructed views. Cabins are cleaned three times daily, and a laundry service is available (for an additional charge). A Special feature we can offer for charters is connecting two of our cabins to create two-bedroom suites.
The seating area in a two-bedroom suite aboard Theory
A is for amenities
Cabin amenities include a flat-screen TV with pre-loaded movies, individual climate control, memory foam mattress, Nespresso machine, and tea kettle, pair of binoculars, and reusable metal water bottles. Bathrooms are modern and bright with a walk-in rainfall shower. Guests are provided with plush towels, bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer, a vanity kit, refillable dispensers of bio-degradable soap and shampoo, body wash, and lotion.
Up on deck, we have a jacuzzi hot tub for up to four guests
A floating hotel
The main lounge and indoor bar were beautifully inspired by the calming nature of Galapagos by Ecuadorian interior designer, and incorporate minimalist-chic interiors with exotic stone, petrified wood, agate lamps in a cozy setting. There is also an onboard library, boutique, and fitness center. Plus satellite communications (Wi-Fi) are available 24/7 limited to one pin per cabin.
The bronze Relais & Chateaux plaque proudly displayed aboard Origin with our CEO Santiago Dunn, and community manager, Gabriel O’Rorke.
Happy 67th Anniversary Relais & Chateaux!
As we take the opportunity to celebrate this impressive anniversary we would like to say how proud we are to be part of the Relais & Chateaux family, not least during such a challenging time for hospitality. Relais & Châteaux properties are gradually reopening again, ready to welcome you back to breathe in the fresh air of different landscapes from lush forests to mountain peaks, city rooftops to idyllic beaches. We are so grateful to be providing unforgettable journeys through the magical Galapagos Islands for our guests.
Being members of Relais & Chateaux requires extremely high levels of gastronomy, something we strive to excel at, always serving food of the highest quality
The story behind Relais & Chateaux
On May 12th in 1954, Relais & Chateaux was founded by the hoteliers and chefs of eight small independent properties in France who joined forces to advertise their very different establishments — all charming in their own way, yet united by shared values — in a one-page newspaper advertisement under the slogan “La Route du Bonheur”.
From these humble roots, the Relais & Châteaux association has grown to 580 exceptional hotels and restaurants in over 60 countries of which we are proud to be a part. Today not only do we commemorate the heritage, passion and authenticity the collection represents, but we thank you – our beloved guests and followers for supporting us through such a challenging year. We are looking forward to welcoming you aboard our expedition yachts, and hope that you also have trips planned to other member properties. Happy Birthday, Relais!
We proudly display the Relais & Chateaux plaque aboard our yachts, a seal of the quality of service, hospitality, and gastronomy.
