Natural Wonders of the Amazon & Galapagos

Your Cabin/Suite

 The MV Anakonda offers 18 air-conditioned suites, which all have outside facing views. The four Deluxe Suites feature a fully accessible balcony and en-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and measure 24sq metres. The fourteen Standard Suites have a French style balcony and en-suite bathroom (none have baths) and measure 20sq metres. All beds are either a fixed twin or fixed double configuration. All cabins have hairdryers and toiletries.   

Your Space

The vessel’s wall-to-wall panoramic windows will allow you to observe the wilderness from almost every point in the vessel. The Amazonian rainforest will pass by like in a National Geographic documentary on the silver screen – but this is a movie you can take part in as your guides invite you to participate in rowing or walking expeditions at least twice a day. The observation deck with its alfresco lounge and two outdoor Jacuzzis is an ideal place for enjoying a cocktail, relaxing with a good book or simply taking in the spectacular views. Other facilities onboard include, indoor bar, lounge, dining room and boutique.

Your Dining

Onboard you will enjoy a wide variety of national and international fusion cuisine. The chefs utilise traditional and well-known cuisine from all over the world and adapt it using fresh, local products. Individual tastes can be catered for and guests can enjoy unique fare such as Quinoa Risotto or fish prepared in fresh coconut sauce.

Life Onboard

The friendly onboard crew of 20 will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. The crew includes a purser, paramedic, four expert English speaking naturalist guides, four local guides and a concierge. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and informal and the dress code is casual, with the emphasis on comfort for exploration during the day and smart/casual clothing is ideal for the evenings. There will be a range of onboard activities including briefings and talks from the onboard naturalists and cooking demonstrations.

The Anakonda operates all year round and each trip is unique based on the changing seasons. During the high water season, when the water levels of rivers and inlets grow, launch boats are able to venture deeper into the flooded forest. During the low water season, the river recedes to form beautiful sandy river beaches.

For your comfort

The vessel is fitted with GPS tracking by the Ecuadorian Navy, radio communication with separate battery pack, satellite phone, life jackets, flares and signals, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors in each suite and there is an automatic defibrillator on board. The three fibreglass ecologic canoes are equipped with four-stroke low emission engines, constant radio communications with the main vessel. Each canoe has a capacity of 30 passengers.

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. 

VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS:

Crew: 20
Passengers: 33
Built: 2013
Length: 46 metres
Beam: 9 metres
Draft: 1.5 metres
Gross Tonnage: 280 tonnes
Cruising Speed: 12 knots

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.

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. Please note that all beds are either a fixed twin or fixed double configuration. 

CRUISE DIRECTOR

A local Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage, along with a Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.

CURRENCY

The currency on board is the US Dollar.

DAILY PROGRAMME

Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.

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 & SAFETY PROCEDURES

Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation.

END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE

Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire. Kindly hand your completed questionnaire in at Reception. 

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 not all dietary requirements can 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.

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 & 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. 

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). 

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: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.

V.2 November 2019

• Anakonda

  Deckplan

  

Your Cabin/Suite 

Carrying a maximum of only 40 guests, all 21 cabins aboard the Isabela II are en-suite and have outside views with ample storage space, a safety box and a hairdryer. Divided between two decks, there are 20 cabins on the Cabin deck whilst the master cabin is located on the Main Deck next to the dining room. There are 16 Classic Cabins measuring 12.8m² and these have twin beds, Standard Cabins measure 12m² 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. 

Your Space 

The vessel features three decks and is air-conditioned throughout to ensure that the temperature onboard is comfortable at all times. The Lounge features soft furnishings and is where daily briefings and films on the natural world will be shown throughout your voyage. Here you will find a well stocked bar where you can enjoy a drink in the evenings, or perhaps relax with a good book and a cup of tea from the coffee and tea station which is available 24 hrs a day.

In the reception area you will be welcomed by friendly faces and informative staff and it is here you will find the small gift shop and internet point although quality of reception will depend on location.

The Sun deck offers breathtaking views of your surroundings and opportunities to look out for nature. Relax on the comfortable deck furniture with a book, keep a look out for passing wildlife or perhaps enjoy a refreshment from the bar. There is also a hot tub and gym available on this deck, and here you will pick up your wetsuits and snorkelling equipment. The Sun deck is also where the Bridge is located which passengers will have access to throughout.  

Your Dining

The spacious single seating dining room is tastefully decorated and affords outside views and on occasion meals can be enjoyed on the Sun deck. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, with a wonderful selection of local fresh produce and both hot and cold dishes. For lunch there is a selection of soup and salad, main courses and dessert. Dinner is a set menu served at your table. Coffee, tea and water are included in the price of your cruise, whereas soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages, are in addition. 

Life Onboard 

If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere and comfortable surroundings, the Isabela II is the perfect choice. The three naturalist guides onboard will always be on hand to answer queries and share their expertise. The emphasis of your trip will be on adventure and exploration and your guides will be able to answer any of your questions or point out unique wildlife along the way. Whether snorkelling, exploring by Zodiac, discovering one of the breathtaking islands by foot, or looking out for whales from the sun deck, your journey promises to be one of discovery shared with like minded travellers. 

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.

VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS

Built: 1979
Reconstructed: 1988 in Pensacola, Florida, USA
Refurbished: 2014 in Panama
Registered: Guayaquil, Ecuador
Length: 166 feet
Beam: 38 feet
Engines: 2 GM Detroit Diesel (900 BHP each)
Gross Tonnage: 1025 tonnes
Speed: 10 knots
Cabins: 21
Passengers: 40
Crew: 26
Zodiacs: 3

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.

V.1 February 2017

• Isabela II

  Deckplan