Silversea Cruises
A fine ship to use as a floating base in the Galápagos
The Ship. Silver Galápagos operates two specific Galápagos cruise itineraries year-round from Baltra, Ecuador. It suits couples and solo travelers who want to cruise around the islands in comfortable, stylish surroundings.
It is an inviting ship, built as one of a series of eight similar small ships for the defunct Renaissance Cruises. While the vessel is in good condition, maintenance could be better. Its looks are quite contemporary in the style of a mega-yacht, and there is a wooden promenade deck outdoors. The limited number of public rooms have smart and restful, non-glitzy decor. The main lounge doubles as a lecture room, but perhaps it is the piano bar that provides the best place to relax after dinner in the evening. A doctor is carried at all times.
This ship (first operated by Silversea Cruises in 2013) provides a destination-intensive, refined, quiet, and relaxed cruise for those who don’t like crowds or dressing up. Trained naturalist guides lead the shore excursions (included in the fare); the ship carries two glass-bottom boats, plus wetsuits and snorkeling equipment.
All drinks, bottled water, and soft drinks are included in the fare. Also included are guided visits to the islands. The brochure rates may or may not include the Galápagos Islands visitor tax, which must be paid in cash.
Sunbathing space is cramped. Plastic wood is everywhere (although it looks good). The service lacks finesse, but the crew is willing. The small library is attractive, but the book selection is poor.
Accommodation. This is located forward, with public rooms aft. Pleasant, all-outside suites have a large picture window, hand-crafted Italian furniture, and wet bar. All cabins have a queen-size bed, a sitting area, a minibar/refrigerator, TV, DVD player, and hairdryer. The small bathrooms have showers with a fold-down seat, real teakwood floors, and marble vanities.
Dining. The small, elegant, intimate dining room has open seating and tables for two, four, six, and eight. The meals are dinner is à la carte, while lunch is buffet-style (sometimes on the open deck), with local Ecuadorian delicacies and meat.
Entertainment. After-dinner conversation with fellow passengers forms the entertainment each evening.
Spa/Fitness. There is a small sauna. Snorkel gear is also available.