We are planning to go to Galapagos is December. Any recommedation for a good ship with planned trips, hikes and activities?
We like the small size ships with upscale facilities.
Thanks

We had a lovely time on the Eclipse - big enough (40 passengers) to go to the west side of Isabela to see the cormorants (which we wanted to see) but small enough to traverse the small bays and islands. Also it has enough zodiacs to move all passengers at the same time so no waiting around for transportation. Here's a link to our blog with photos - since these were taken the boat has been renovated (scroll down) --- link to boat website below as well

http://lizandrichardsa.typepad.com/l...th_/galapagos/

http://www.eclipse.com.ec/

I also suggest you buy Barry Boyce's A Traveler's Guide to Galapagos - it will give you a great sense of the various cruise options/itineraries which will help with your choice.

www.gotmyfare.com Ecuador

good value on the Legend

other good upscale cruise ops

Thank you for your replies.

The Eclipse looks very good, but it is expensive - over $5,000/person. Maybe be because of the season (last 2 weeks in December). We will further investigate. Your pictures Elizabeth are inspiring, what an adventure.

Yikes - it's gone up alot. when we were there in February/06 it was $3,100 per person - and because we were staying in Puerto Ayora and could go at a moment's notice we got a last minute deal of Two for One - couldn't have afforded it otherwise.

Elizabeth, yes they have 2 for 1 in December as well, but not for the last 2 weeks in December. They are pretty booked. We will probably go in a another-more quiet time.
What kind of cabin did you have?

We had the least expensive one - it was lovely - on the lower level.

Hi, Where are you finding the info on the 2 for 1 deals? I don't see anything on the website submitted by Elizabeth_S...Thanks.

Elizabeth, I really enjoyed reading about your trip. Thanks!