Kontiki Expeditions
Fodor’s Expert Review
Newer to cruising, Kontiki Expeditions focuses on culturally rich routes along the coast of Ecuador’s mainland. The company extends the concept of small-ship expedition sailing in the Galapagos to this new region, adding more luxury and diverse culinary, craft, and ceremonial experiences with sportive adventure. Started in 2020, as of this writing, Kontiki currently has one ship with plans to add another. Guests can book rooms on the primary Spondylus itinerary or charter the ship for more flexibility. Read More
As a prominent businessman and coastal resident, founder Carlos Nuñez and his family saw the potential to bring curious and conscientious travelers to this largely overlooked region, providing economic opportunities and support for residents seeking to preserve Indigenous traditions and natural preserves. Kontiki, named for the god of creation in pre-Incan and Incan mythology, offers immersive and connective experiences to this heritage. Described as a neo-luxury expedition, these sailings are a vibrant combination of adventure in an emerging destination paired with an intimate luxury that spares wasteful frills.
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What to Expect on Board
All meals are included and served either in the yacht’s dining area or alfresco on the sun deck.
Continental, Ecuadorian and traditional U.S. options are available for breakfast. Ecuadorian specialties such as encebollado and bolones de verde join a variety of salads on the lunch buffet. Seafood is common in the three-course dinner options with well-selected wine pairings from the private cellar. Fresh fruit and juices are readily available, as are various coffees.
Guests can rely on chef-prepared snacks and drinks after each excursion. The timing of the meals easily adjusts to the guests’ needs, weather, and changes in the itinerary schedule. Meals on excursions exemplify the region’s traditional methods and modern innovation as guests dine at stops like culinary schools and traditional cocoa farms.
Typical of yachting, the on-ship entertainment standard on larger lines is unavailable.
Instead, Kontiki Expeditions shine with a comprehensive collection of equipment for water activities that rival any in its class. Options include a three-deck-high slide, an “ocean pool” that provides a netted pool with an inflatable deck, paddleboards, kayaks, hand-held Seabob underwater scooters, floats, and snorkeling equipment. Kontiki also provides music entertainment between select excursions on land. The sundeck is a prime relaxation space, with ample seating, a jacuzzi, and impeccable service from the deck’s bar.
Most recreation occurs off the ship, with hikes, snorkeling, and a large variety of aquatic activities as a staple feature of the ship’s entertainment.
On board, there is a gym with mats, fitness bands, dumbbells, kettlebells, stability balls, and bosu balls. Kontiki offers spa services on-demand either in the lower deck’s spa room or on the sundeck. Treatments include massages, body treatments, and facials using Ayuna skincare products.
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Your Shipmates
Kontiki Expedition guests are curious and knowledgeable cruisers looking for cultural experiences and natural recreation at the forefront of travel on the Ecuadorian coast. While many have already traveled in Ecuador and are looking beyond the well-tread tourism trail, others are looking for cruises that empower sustainable culture. The majority of cruisers are adults, hailing from across the Americas and Europe. The cruise is also popular with adventurous and well-traveled Ecuadorians who want to see another side of their country. Spanish is Ecuador’s official language, and both it and English are common languages on board, with English widely spoken and understood by the crew and most guests.
Dress Code
The focus on adventure excursions lends itself to casual attire. Kontiki recommends light clothing and comfortable shoes. Water shoes are helpful for several activities. Kontiki provides wetsuits, snorkel gear, and tall rubber boots for hiking muddy paths. Common to yachts, shoes are taken off once on board and stored with easy access on deck. Depending on the season, a light and hooded rain jacket comes in handy. Exercise apparel is appropriate and evenings tend to be dressy casual.
Junior Cruisers
While family-friendly, Kontiki strongly suggests that children be six or older at departure for supervision in a small-ship setting. Transitions into and out of zodiacs and several excursions are more appropriate for youth with independent mobility and stamina for a few hours of walking. There are four interconnected rooms available for families. However, there is no separate program space for youth like found on much larger ships.
Service
From entertaining and knowledgeable guides, timely table service, anticipated needs, and round-the-clock support, Kontiki Expeditions has refined service at every level. As the only seaborn member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the ship has a hotel manager available round the clock for any needs. Bar service follows you effortlessly throughout your ship movement. Daily briefings provide you with personalized and engaging info for each day. The inconspicuous turndown service is next level.
Tipping
Gratuities are not included and are optional. Tip with cash or a credit card and it will be distributed amongst the crew and guides.
Past Passengers
At this boutique cruise line’s inception and as of this writing, there is no loyalty program.