Deckplan
Natural Wonders of the Amazon & Galapagos
An extraordinary river cruise through Ecuadorian Amazonia aboard the MV Anakonda combined with an island hopping cruise through the Galapagos aboard the Isabela II
- 24 February 2020
- 19 October 2020
- 1 February 2021
- 11 October 2021
Join us for this unparalleled journey and discover the wonders of the natural world as we explore the Napo River in Amazonia and Galapagos Islands aboard two very special vessels, the MV Anakonda and the Isabela II, which we have chartered for this unique combination.
We will begin in Ecuador’s capital, Quito, a city stretched narrowly between volcanic peaks, and a fittingly dramatic introduction to this compact, but diverse country with its beautifully restored colonial architecture and busy plazas. We then fly to Coca and begin our discovery of the Yasuní, the largest of Ecuador’s continental National Parks; a wild and untamed realm in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. The Amazonian rainforest is one of the most bio-diverse regions on our planet and is home to thousands of indigenous peoples, who have lived there for millennia. We will venture into remote and pristine areas of the rainforest where we can observe the wilderness, diverse wildlife and interact with the region’s indigenous communities. Excursions with our naturalist guides will provide an opportunity to view jungle wildlife including playful monkeys, colourful tropical birds and river turtles, anacondas, caimans and other amphibians and reptiles of this unique eco-system.
Following on from our time exploring the Amazon we return to Quito for an overnight stay before continuing with the second half of our expedition, our island hopping adventure through the pristine Galapagos Archipelago aboard the Isabela II. The archipelago’s 13 major islands, six smaller ones, and scores of islets are all part of Ecuador’s National Park system. In 1835 Charles Darwin visited the islands and discovered this “living laboratory” which inspired his writings on the Theory of Evolution. Many of the animals on the Galapagos Islands have developed into different species from their continental relatives, and because they have never experienced man as a predator, they show no fear of humans. The moment you set foot on your first island you will see that curiosity and fearlessness are a way of life. Whether strolling along the islands’ pristine beaches, searching for the spectacular waved albatross, having a “chat” with a particularly friendly sea lion, or snorkelling with Galapagos penguins, a feeling of freedom surrounds you.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Anakonda
Explore the wonders of the Amazon from aboard the MV Anakonda, the only first class ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. Experience the Amazon in a most unique way aboard this 148 foot-long floating boutique hotel. Built in 2013, the MV Anakonda’s 18 spacious, deluxe and exclusive suites provide capacity for up to 40 passengers.
Isabela II
There are many vessels in the Galapagos accommodating up to 100 passengers but we have chosen to charter the 21-cabin Isabela II for our explorations from our associates and leaders in Galapagos voyages, Metropolitan Touring. Refurbished in 2012, the Isabela II is a stylish yacht ideal for exploring the Galapagos Islands. This accommodates just 40 guests in comfort, and is equipped with Zodiacs for landing on these remote islands. The ship is also equipped with sea kayaks, a glass bottom boat and snorkelling equipment for making the most of your journey around this breathtaking archipelago. Onboard you will be accompanied by a team of passionate and dedicated naturalist guides who will add greatly to you overall experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 - London to Quito, Ecuador.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight to Quito early this morning. On arrival transfer to the Hilton Colon Hotel for a two night stay.
Day 2 - Quito.
After breakfast at the hotel we depart for a tour of Quito’s colonial quarter, the largest and best preserved in South America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will stroll across Independence Plaza, flanked by the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace and visit the temple of La Compañía de Jesús and its wonderful gilded interior. Also visit the Monastery of San Francisco, one of the great religious buildings of the New World with its impressive façade and atrium, and its Baroque interior influenced by Moorish style. Afterwards, we will continue to the Equatorial Monument, 16 miles north of Quito, which marks the exact Middle of the World, latitude 0º, where we can stand with a foot on each hemisphere. We will have lunch at a local restaurant and the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. This evening meet up with your fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 - Quito to Coca.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport for our flight to Coca. On arrival we will transfer to the dock where we will embark on a motorised canoe and navigate down river to board the MV Anakonda. Throughout the journey we have a chance to admire the rainforest landscape and banks of the great Napo River. Immediately after boarding the MV Anakonda, we will cast off and continue navigating downstream. For the remainder of the day, relax on board and this evening join a guided walk after sunset allowing for the opportunity to discover the forest’s nocturnal activity and listen to the incessant sounds of nature.
Day 4 - Yasuni National Park.
Early in the morning, we will visit Yasuni National Park, a pristine and relatively undisturbed region of the Ecuadorian Amazon. This area is home to the legendary Pink River Dolphin, anacondas, river turtles and various primate species, as well as the colourful hoatzin, a unique bird that is known locally as the ‘Stinky Turkey’. Later in the afternoon, we will go canoeing in a blackwater lake, home to giant otters and the magnificent, albeit elusive manatee. We will also enjoy a pleasant hike in the Riparian Gallery Forest, where we have the chance to spot a flock of birds and marvel at the intricate organisation of a colony of leaf-cutter ants by the ‘Giant Fig Tree’, a truly majestic tree that is home to an abundance of wildlife.
Day 5 - Meeting the Community.
This morning we visit an authentic Quechua family located on the banks of the Napo River where we will have the opportunity to interact with the local community and learn about life in the remote jungle. We return to the MV Anakonda for lunch and some time to relax while we navigate upstream. Enjoy a cultural cooking demonstration and share recipes and techniques to prepare exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food, and if time permits, there will be an opportunity to enjoy a lecture or learn about (and make) typical handicrafts of the area. For the more active there will be an opportunity to go kayaking.
Day 6 - Forest Adventure & Observation Tower.
This morning we will disembark to explore the nearby forest for a walk to discover a myriad of different animals and plant species that can only be found in the Amazon basin. In the afternoon we will visit an observation tower 100- feet high, built against a giant kapok tree. From the top of the tower, we will be blessed with this unique perspective of the forest, the treetops and the greatness of the Amazon Basin. This evening venture into the river by canoe to search for black caimans with the help of our flashlights.
Day 7 - Coca to Quito.
Disembark the MV Anakonda this morning and transfer by motorised canoe to Coca. On arrival transfer to the airport for the flight to Quito and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the Hilton Colon Hotel.
Day 8 - Quito to Galapagos.
After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the airport for the flight to Baltra in the Galapagos. On arrival, we will transfer by ferry to Santa Cruz Island. A 30-minute bus ride takes us to a restaurant in the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy lunch before we continue to Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station. After driving down from the highlands, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise pens within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest, home to many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Late this afternoon we stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora before embarking the Isabela II. Tonight enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner.
Day 9 - Sante Fe Island & South Plaza Island.
A stunning anchorage provides our jumping-off point for our visit to this sandy white beach with many sea lion harems. Galapagos hawks are often easily observed, perched atop salt bushes. The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the walk. Snorkelling and swimming from the beach, kayaking or a ride in our glass-bottom boat rounds off the rewarding experience. The turquoise waters of the channel here contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline, while a carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus, populated by yellow-gray land iguanas. Along the coastline one finds sea lion colonies, while sea birds play with the thermals that form along the cliffs of this small but amazing island.
Day 10 - North Seymour Island & Las Bachas (Santa Cruz Island).
The morning starts with an enjoyable walk along the coast and the interior of this island, a favourite of many visitors, observing numerous bird colonies as well as sea lions and marine iguanas. There are opportunities for snorkelling or coastal exploration. We can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. After World War Two, US military barges were beached and abandoned here. Locals referred to the beach as the barges beach, a name that morphed to “bachas”. Today it is an important nesting area for the east Pacific green sea turtle. Located on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, it is a glorious white beach, with several brackish lagoons only a few steps away from the sea. These lagoons are the feeding grounds of various wading birds, from stilts to flamingos and we can swim or snorkel from the beach.
Day 11 - Bartolome Island & Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island).
This morning, a Galapagos icon awaits us: Bartolome Island. A great way to start the day, with a steep climb up a wooden staircase the view from the top is worth the effort. Following the walk, we take the dinghies for a ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkelling. We can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. After lunch, we board the pangas to land at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming, and with a trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galapagos while observing its wildlife. This evening enjoy your Farewell Dinner on board as we sail back towards Baltra.
Day 12 - Baltra to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled, indirect flight to London.
Day 13 - London.
Arrive into London today.
Please note to best enjoy your experience during this tour, you should be in good physical condition. There are activities each day including daily use of canoes or Zodiacs undertaken in humid conditions in addition to the high altitude in Quito. If you would like to discuss the required fitness level please contact our reservations team.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 24 February to 7 March 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £7495 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £8295 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Master Cabin | £8995 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Standard Cabin for sole use | £9795 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin for sole use | £11495 | |
| 19 to 31 October 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £7795 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £8295 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Master Cabin | £8995 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Standard Cabin for sole use | £9995 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin for sole use | £11695 | |
| 1 to 13 February 2021 • 11 to 23 October 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £7995 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin | £8495 | |
| Anakonda Deluxe Cabin/Isabela II Master Cabin | £8995 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Standard Cabin for sole use | £10195 | |
| Anakonda Standard Cabin/Isabela II Classic Cabin for sole use | £11895 | |
Tour Reference Code: RCANAISA
Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel • Three nights hotel accommodation in Quito with breakfast • Lunch on day 2 & dinner on days 2 & 7 • Four nights aboard the MV Anakonda on a full board basis • Four nights aboard the Isabela II on full board basis • All shore excursions • Naturalist guides • National Park and Community fees • All gratuities • Tour Manager • All transfers • Port taxes • UK airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, dinner on day 1, lunch on days 3 & 7.
Please note to best enjoy your experience during this tour, you should be in good physical condition. There are activities each day including daily use of canoes or Zodiacs undertaken in humid conditions in addition to the high altitude in Quito. If you would like to discuss the required fitness level please contact our reservations team.
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Anakonda
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Isabela II
Deckplan
Anakonda
Explore the wonders of the Amazon from aboard the MV Anakonda, the only first class ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. Experience the Amazon in a most unique way aboard this 148 foot-long floating boutique hotel. Built in 2013, the MV Anakonda’s 18 spacious, deluxe and exclusive suites provide capacity for up to 40 passengers.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted that you have chosen the MV Anakonda, which we have chartered from our associates at Advantage Travel, for your exploration of the Amazon. Built specifically for this region, she is the only luxury ship in the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest and carries just 33 guests. The 18 suites feature ample sitting areas, with large and comfortable beds and the public spaces include an expansive observation deck, outdoor Jacuzzi and an al fresco lounge, ideal for cocktails, reading or simply enjoying the spectacular view. The vessel also features three canoes and 10 kayaks as well as hammocks and naturalist guides who will share their knowledge with you and make sure that your cruise is an unforgettable and rewarding experience.
We hope that this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
AIR CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of an emergency.
ALL ABOARD
Your times for embarkation and disembarkation will be provided by your Cruise Director.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and the Cruise Director. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.
BAR/BEVERAGES
Your bill for drinks consumed throughout your journey must be settled at the end of your journey.
BEAUTY SALON
No salon is available on board.
CABINS/SUITES
The all-suite MV Anakonda features 18 outside-facing cabins with private facilities, ranging from 215 to 258 square feet. There are four Deluxe Suites, each with their own Jacuzzi and private balcony and 14 Standard Suites, four of which can be interconnected. Each suite features large panoramic windows, a sitting area, air conditioning and private bathrooms with a shower/WC, sink, cabinet, hairdryer and toiletries. Hot water is available 24 hours a day.
CRUISE DIRECTOR
A local Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage, along with a Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.
CURRENCY
The currency onboard is the US Dollar.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is no lift or chair lift on board. Visitor sites are accessible by small, motorized boats and will possibly require wet landings. Some of the excursions involve a good deal of walking on rocky trails and sometimes on uneven, muddy and slippery terrain. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, step on and off small boats and carry their own luggage at a minimum. The ship reserves the right to deny passage to passengers whose physical limitations could disrupt group operations or make it unfeasible for them to accompany the group.
DRESS CODE
The dress code is informal at all times. You may wish to bring some smart casual clothes e.g. shirt and trousers or skirt and blouse for the evenings.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 110V/60Hz (American standard). This is only suitable for low voltage electrical appliances, e.g. a mobile phone or camera charger. We recommend that you bring a two-pin American adaptor (or universal adaptor) for the 110V sockets. If you intend to use any UK electrical appliances you may also need a voltage converter.
EMERGENCY AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation.
FACILITIES
• Bar-Lounge • Indoor Dining Room • Outside Lounge with “al fresco” dining facilities • Spacious Sun Deck with outdoor Jacuzzi and lounge chairs • Boutique • Spa
FOOD & DRINK
You will enjoy a wide variety of delicious tropical cuisine on board from adventurous Ecuadorian dishes with ingredients borne from diverse plants and trees to the classic international dishes. Individual tastes can be catered for and guests can enjoy unique dishes such as fish prepared in fresh coconut sauce - Encocado de pescado. Coffee and tea are available during the day free of charge on a self-serve basis and are also served with meals. All other drinks with meals can be purchased and paid for the night before disembarkation. Special dietary requests such as vegetarian, low salt and low cholesterol should be made with Noble Caledonia in advance. However, we recommend that you contact the Hotel Manager once on board to reconfirm such requests. We regret that these, and any other special dietary needs, cannot be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you bring some with you.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FIRST AID/MEDICAL
There is no doctor on board the ship. A number of the onboard staff are trained in First Aid and in case of an emergency there are Medical Centres located along the cruise route. Please ensure that you bring a good supply of any medications you will need throughout your trip.
FITNESS ROOM
There is no fitness room on board.
GRATUITIES
All gratuities are included in your holiday price.
GIFT SHOP
There is a gift shop on board. Items available include toiletries, chocolates, and souvenirs such as jewellery, t-shirts, caps etc.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
KEYS TO CABIN
Each cabin will receive their own electronic key, each with its own private code. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship please return your shore pass to reception in exchange for your cabin key.
ITINERARY
You will already have seen a provisional itinerary listing the main stops on the cruise. However, much depends on river conditions and other local factors. Guests are asked to remain patient and flexible, should a change in schedule be necessary.
LAUNDRY
There is a laundry service on board (no dry cleaning). Prices are shown on the laundry list in your cabin.
LIBRARY AND GAMES
A small selection of books, games and magazines are available for use on board.
LIFT
There is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.
MOSQUITOES
Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
MONEY MATTERS
The official on board currency is the US Dollar. Throughout your cruise you will be signing for all purchases, and you will then be presented with your final bill at the end of the cruise. Your final bill can be settled on board by cash or credit card (Visa, American Express, Diners and MasterCard only). Personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted.
OPERATIONAL CHANGES
Despite meticulous planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew along with the Noble Caledonia Tour Manager will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.
POST
The vessel’s crew will be happy to send any post you may have on your behalf (although please note that as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself). Please note that neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia can be held responsible for items of post that are not successfully delivered on your behalf.
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed during peak hours. You will always be able to contact a member of the crew 24 hours a day.
SAFE
All cabins have a safety deposit box.
SAFETY
Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel. Full safety instructions and a safety video are available on board and the Safety Drill will take place on the day of embarkation.
SMOKING
Smoking is only permitted in the al fresco dining area or on the Sun Deck. Cigarettes are not available for purchase on board.
TELEPHONE
Cabins/Suites do not have telephones.
VALUABLES
Suites do not have safes so we urge you to leave any valuable jewellery at home. Neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia is responsible for any valuables left in the suites. A ship safe is available at reception.
VISITORS
Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel.
WATER
Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is available within your cabin and a number of the ship’s lounges during the day.
WI-FI
The ship is fitted with a Satellite, and Wi-Fi is charged at 20 US Dollars per person, per cruise, however because of the remote location the connection may be sporadic and cannot be guaranteed.
PLEASE NOTE:
The above information is accurate and correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publishing. Noble Caledonia accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions and none of the facilities or features of the vessel described herein which are not specifically described in our advertisements and on your holiday invoice as being included in your holiday price will be deemed to be included in your holiday package. If you would like further information about the vessel or about any of your holiday arrangements, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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Deck plans
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Anakonda
Deckplan
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Anakonda
Isabela II
There are many vessels in the Galapagos accommodating up to 100 passengers but we have chosen to charter the 21-cabin Isabela II for our explorations from our associates and leaders in Galapagos voyages, Metropolitan Touring. Refurbished in 2012, the Isabela II is a stylish yacht ideal for exploring the Galapagos Islands. This accommodates just 40 guests in comfort, and is equipped with Zodiacs for landing on these remote islands. The ship is also equipped with sea kayaks, a glass bottom boat and snorkelling equipment for making the most of your journey around this breathtaking archipelago. Onboard you will be accompanied by a team of passionate and dedicated naturalist guides who will add greatly to you overall experience.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted that you have chosen the Isabela II, which we have chartered from our associates at Metropolitan Touring, for your exploration of the Galapagos Islands. Carrying a maximum of only 40 guests, the yacht Isabela II is the perfect choice if you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere and real comfort. The three naturalist guides on board will always be on hand to answer queries and share their expertise. The spacious public areas ensure there is always somewhere to relax with a book or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.
We hope that this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
AIR CONDITIONING
Air temperature can be individually controlled in each cabin.
BAR HOURS
The Boat Deck Bar is open from 11:00 to 12:30 and from 14:30 to 18:30 and in the Main Lounge from 18:30 until it closes. All drinks, including those ordered in the dining room, are charged to your shipboard account.
BULLETIN BOARD
It is conveniently located at the lobby. The daily programme will be posted here, as well as natural history information regarding Galapagos subjects, announcements and news. Another informative bulletin can be found next to the Reception desk.
BUSINESS CENTRE
Located on the Main Deck, right next to the Gift Shop. Please check with the Expedition Leader for books to read during the voyage. After reading, guests are kindly requested to return the books to the library. This quiet location will give you the chance to catch up with your reading. There are also two computers with Internet access, please ask for your code at Reception.
CABINS
Carrying a maximum of only 40 guests, all cabins aboard the Isabela II are en-suite and have outside views with ample storage space, a safety box and a hairdryer. There are 18 Classic Cabins measuring 12m² and these have twin beds except for cabins 11 and 12 which feature a double bed. Standard Cabins measure 12.8m² and have double beds. The Master Cabin on the Main Deck is larger and measures 18.9m² and has a double bed, with an additional sitting area.
COMMUNICATIONS
Internet connections onboard consist of two computer stations in the business centre and WiFi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth. During the welcome briefing, you will receive information about these services. There is a satellite phone located at the Reception. Charges will be added to your shipboard account.
DECK CHAIRS
Lazy chairs and observation chairs are available on the Boat Deck.
DINING ROOM
An open seating policy applies for all meals, with tables unassigned. Meal hours will vary depending on the programme each day, and will be announced and posted daily on the bulletin board. Guests are kindly requested to observe the established meal hours. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, while dinner is served directly at your table. Coffee, tea, snacks and cookies are always available at the coffee station in the Main Lounge. If you have any special requirements regarding meals, please contact the Hotel Manager. There is always a vegetarian option available.
DISABLED FACILITIES
There is no lift or chair lift on board. Travellers must be able to walk without the aid of another person, step on and off small boats and carry their own luggage at a minimum. Some of the excursions involve a good deal of walking on uneven trails and sometimes slippery terrain. The ship reserves the right to deny passage to passengers whose physical limitations could disrupt group operations or make it unfeasible for them to accompany the group.
DRESS CODE
There is an informal dress code at all times. For dinner and evening programmes, women will find casual outfits entirely suitable. Men will be comfortable in sports shirts and slacks. Please note that bathing suits or bare-feet are not permitted in the dining room at any time. Also, guests are kindly requested not to enter the public areas or cabins with wet or dirty shoes.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
There is an emergency button in your cabin. Pressing the button signals an alarm on the bridge, whereupon a crew or staff member will immediately come to your cabin. PLEASE USE IT FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY. Life jackets can be found in the wardrobe in your cabin. In the event of an emergency, proceed to the designated MUSTER STATION and await instructions.
ELECTRICITY
All electrical outlets in the cabins and bathrooms are 110V. Guests are requested not to plug electrical equipment into other areas of the ship without consulting a ship’s officer about the voltage of the outlets in public areas. Special outlets for 220V are available at Reception. The Hotel Manager can assist you if you need adapters.
EXERCISE ROOM
Air conditioned, indoor gym with glass panels, open 24 hours, with a bike, elliptical and a treadmill.
FACILITIES
• Bars (two) • Boutique & Gift Shop • Glass Bottom Boat • Jacuzzi • Lounge/Saloon • Medical Officer on board • Use of computers with internet & WiFi internet access (service in this remote region cannot be guaranteed) • Reading Room & Natural History Library • Restaurant • Sea Kayaks • “Shorty” wetsuits ($17 US Dollars per person plus 14% V.A.T.) for snorkelling • Snorkelling Equipment
GIFT SHOP
The gift shop is located on the Main Deck, next to Reception. Opening hours of the boutique will be found posted on the bulletin board. All purchases are added to your shipboard account.
HOT TUB
For a relaxing time you can use this facility, located on the Sun Deck. Please ensure you read the safety instructions. Open from 10:00 to 20:00 hours, and by request after dinner.
HOUSEKEEPING
You will be provided with at least two full services per day.
ICE
You may request ice at the Bar. For your convenience, an ice maker machine is also located on the Boat Deck, right behind the Hot Tub. Your cabin is provided with a pitcher and glasses.
KEYS
Isabela II does not issue keys to the cabins. For your convenience all cabins are provided with a safe, located within the closet. The instructions for its use are found next to it. If you have difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact the reception.
LANDINGS
You will be transferred from the ship to shore in Pumar inflatable landing craft and/or a glass bottom boat. Landings are either wet (where you might have to wade ashore in shallow water) or dry (which make use of a dock or other landing stage). There will generally be an excursion ashore immediately after breakfast, after which you will return to the ship for lunch. There may then be time for a short ‘siesta’ before the afternoon shore excursion. The naturalist-guide will accompany you on all shore excursions.
LAUNDRY
Please note that there is no laundry facility on board Isabella II.
LUGGAGE STORAGE
Your cabin has been designed so that luggage may be stored under your bed. There is sufficient space in each cabin to hang and store clothing.
MEDICAL
Although the seas around the Galapagos tend to be calm, seasickness can still be an issue. We recommend that you take the appropriate precautions, even if you have never previously suffered from motion sickness. There is a doctor on board at all times, therefore please feel free to visit him/her at any time should you need to. Passengers requiring special medications are advised to bring a supply with them.
MONEY MATTERS
The official on board currency is the US Dollar. Throughout your cruise you will be signing for all purchases, you will then be presented with your final bill at the end of the cruise. Your final bill can be settled onboard by cash, Travellers’ Cheques (both in US Dollars) or by Credit card (Visa, American Express and Mastercard only). Gratuities are included for all services on the ship and ashore. 8 www.noble-caledonia.co.uk +44 (0)20 7752 0000 9 PHONE CALLS You can make a phone call from Reception. Please ask for assistance. RATE: US$ 2. per minute (subject to change). POST Mailing postcards is possible in Galápagos (Santa Cruz Island, Baltra Island and San Cristóbal Island). The Ecuadorian postal service on the mainland, however, will be faster. We are not responsible for postal delays incurred by the local postal system.
PUBLIC ADDRESS
All announcements can be heard on the public address (PA) system in your cabin. Music programming will be selected daily. Please adjust the volume level to your own preference.
RECEPTION DESK
The Hotel Manager has an office at the reception area. If there is no one at the reception desk, please leave a message. If there is an urgent matter, please notify any member of the staff or crew and they will be glad to assist you.
SHOWER & BATHROOM
The shower in your cabin is equipped with dual controls, for both hot and cold water. If you have any questions about the shower, please don’t hesitate to ask the Hotel Manager. Since the vessel converts salt water into fresh water (desalination), water conservation is always a concern since it uses valuable natural resources. Whenever possible, please save water. Please only flush toilet paper and body-waste. All other items should be placed in the bin. Towels are changed according to our environmental policy: towels lying on the floor will be changed.
SMOKING
For the consideration of non-smoking fellow guests, please note that all indoor areas, including cabins, dining room and reception lounge, have been designated as non-smoking areas. Smoking is therefore allowed exclusively outside the bar, located in the Main Deck. Please refrain from smoking on shore, in shore excursion vehicles and in inflatable boats. Smoke and open fire will activate the smoke detectors. Please do not throw your cigarettes overboard, as it is a violation of international maritime pollution laws and they can easily be blown back onto the ship.
TAX & SERVICE CHARGE
Because the Yacht Isabela II is an Ecuadorian flagged ship operating in Ecuadorian waters, it is subject to Ecuadorian tax laws. All purchases in the Gift Shop as well as bar charges are subject to the 12% VAT (Value Added Tax). Additionally, the law requires a 10% Service Charge on purchases of all beverages.
WATER
The vessel is self-supplied with water. Equipped with two reverse osmosis desalination plants, Isabela II produces sufficient potable water for an ample daily consumption. You will find water bottles in your cabins, as well as a refilling station in the Bar and on the Main Deck.
ZODIACS
An asset to the operation in the Galapagos are the inflatable boats, recognised as the safest and most versatile small boats afloat. The inflatable boats on board are 191/2 feet long, powered by four-stroke outboard engines and accommodates12 to 14 guests plus crew.
PLEASE NOTE:
The above information is accurate and correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publishing. Noble Caledonia accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions and none of the facilities or features of the vessel described herein which are not specifically described in our advertisements and on your holiday invoice as being included in your holiday price will be deemed to be included in your holiday package. If you would like further information about the vessel or about any of your holiday arrangements, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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Deck plans
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Isabela II
Deckplan
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Isabela II
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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000