Excitement is building about the launch of our third luxury expedition yacht, Evolve. First announced back in 2019, the third of our luxury fleet will be taking to the water in January 2023.
A sister ship to Origin and Theory – the only luxury yachts sailing the Galapagos that are members of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux association – guests on the Evolve will enjoy the same luxurious amenities, delicious, locally-sourced cuisine and fantastic guided excursions that our guests currently experience.
The Evolution of Evolve
Construction of the Evolve began back in August 2019, with the keel being laid towards the end of September of that year. The pandemic led to some delays in the building process, as engineers were forced into lockdown and all ships – including Origin and Theory – had to head to harbour.
But the process soon got back up and running and things are now moving full steam ahead, with Evolve’s maiden voyage fast approaching.
“Evolve will be a sister ship to Origin and Theory, with an identical layout and design” explains Ecoventura’s CEO Santiago Dunn, seen below (right) talking to Rafael Albuja, our Chief Engineer.
“The vessel will have ten designer staterooms, all located on the same deck, with two twin, triples or a King size bed and connecting rooms for families available. The cabins will feature private bathrooms and panoramic windows so guests can enjoy the stunning wildlife and scenery even from the comfort of their rooms.”
Ecoventura’s fleet have long been recognized as some of the most exclusive that sail the Galapagos. With only 20 guests and the lowest guest to guide ratio anywhere in the Galapagos, passengers often say it feels like they have the islands to themselves, maximizing the time to enjoy the incredible wildlife and scenery the archipelago has to offer. But whilst it is exploring the islands and marveling at the wildlife that tends to capture imaginations, there’s plenty to enjoy on board as well.
“The yacht will also have a sundeck with a bar – where we often serve lunchtime meals – and guests can relax on sun-loungers and in the Jacuzzi. Indoors, there is a fitness center with cardio equipment, a salon lounge and bar featuring an open bar policy. With a maximum of 20 passengers onboard, the fleets offer a true yachting experience with the lowest guest-per-guide ratio available in the Galapagos. This means that Evolve, with Origin and Theory, will continue to push the limits when it comes to luxury yacht excursions in this most fascinating of destinations.”
Sustainable luxury
Sustainable features incorporated in to Evolve’s design will mirror those of Origin and Theory, helping to reduce fossil fuel consumption – and carbon emissions – by more than 30%.
“A wave piercing keel and underwater bulb reduces drag and provides a more comfortable and efficient ride, with the stabilizing system and cutting-edge bow design allowing for smoother and faster sailing” Santiago explains, following multiple discussions with the ship designers and engineers in what proved to be highly collaborative effort. “The hull being steel, and the superstructure made of composite materials, also makes the vessel stable and light to reduce fuel consumption.”
Upon her launch, Evolve will join her sister ships Origin and Theory, with the three vessels alternating every Sunday between our two itineraries. And if you can’t choose which route is for you, why not combined them both into a comprehensive 2-week voyage?! Whether you’re hoping to snorkel with sealions, learn more about the endemic flora and fauna that inhabits the islands, paddle board with turtles or sip cocktails on the sundeck, there’s something for everyone on our expedition cruises.
For more information, or to book your own cabin or charter the entire yacht, please feel free to contact the team and we would be happy to help: visit our website, email us at info@galapagosnetwork.com, or call 800-633-7972.
