Clients will swim with sea lions, penguins, turtles and sharks, while spotting marine and land iguanas and a host of exotic birds


BEST FOR…UNDERWATER FANATICS People wanting to try expedition cruising tend to fixate on the poles. But there are just as many adventures to be had in warm-water locations. The Galápagos is never going to


be a cheap destination and certainly doesn’t position itself as such. But with so much focus on the new crop of ultra-luxury cruise ships in the islands, it’s easy to forget that the archipelago can be done on a budget. Clients will still swim with sea lions, penguins, turtles and sharks, while spotting marine and land iguanas as well as a host of exotic birds, including the iconic blue-footed booby. The snorkelling is particularly special as the marine life has no fear of humans, and it’s not unusual to have sea lions zipping around you, or penguins popping up beside you. Explore offers a six-night tour from


£2,329, including two nights in a decent hotel in Quito, return flights to San Cristobal and from Baltra, four


36 February 2020


nights’ full-board on the comfortable, 20-passenger motor yacht Montserrat, snorkel gear, and guided hikes and snorkel trips in several anchorages. Park fees totalling $140 are extra, as are flights to Quito. Group size is 14 to 20. explore.co.uk


BEST FOR…LUXURY LOVERS Some cruise ships come with the attributes of expedition ships, from Zodiacs to kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, but offer more of a luxurious adventure cruise than a hardcore expedition. Ponant’s six 184-passenger Explorer


ships, purpose-built for warm-water exploration, are a case in point: beautifully designed, with stylish, soothing interiors, infinity pools and the multisensory Blue Eye lounge, set below the water level and bringing the sights and sounds of the underwater world to life. Pick the right time and itinerary and these ships are surprisingly affordable


travelweekly.co.uk/cruise


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