Galapagos Catamarans or Single Hull Yachts?
Asking which ship you should take for your Galapagos voyage? Explore the differences between a single hull yacht and a Luxury cruise like the Yolita.
Vessels of the Galapagos Islands
There is a huge variety of ways to voyage through the magical landscape of the Galapagos Islands. All of them have their own benefits, so your choice will be one of preference. Some of the most popular options to navigate the island include luxurious monohull vessels such as the Yolita Galapagos Yacht, double hull catamarans, sailing yachts, and huge cruise ships with a capacity of one hundred passengers. In this blog, we are going to spend the majority of the time contrasting Catamarans and Monohull Yachts.
In the past, Catamarans were not very common. However, in the past few years, they have steadily increased. Now, they make up a significant percentage of the fleet. For this reason, it is important to review your options and decide what is right for you! If you find that you would prefer the sailing experience, take a look at the Mary Anne sailing experience!
Galapagos Vessels: Pros and cons
The majority of vessels available in the Galapagos are yachts; numbering at nearly fifty percent of the Galapagos fleet. The remaining percentage is a combination of the other aforementioned ships. Because of this, there will be a greater variety of choices when it comes to choosing Galapagos Yachts. With this variety, it is easier to narrow down the many options by the factors most important to you. Some of these may include price, ship size, passenger capacity, and more.
Ship Size
Generally, Galapagos catamarans are more commodious than cruise yachts in the overall size of cabins. With two hulls, ship architects have more room to work with expansion. However, many competing Yachts are now of similar and equal size. One that I can personally recommend is the Yolita Galapagos Yacht, which will be outlined below.
Ship Motion
One of the reasons guests choose between one type of ship or another is because of the motion of the ship. As these vessels pass through the waves, they have an entirely different feel. With Catamarans, the increased stability that having two hulls creates a completely a feeling of stability that other ships lack. On the other hand, one drawback of the Catamaran is that it “fights” the water.
They have a wide bridge connecting the two hulls. As the ship coasts through the water, the vessel counteracts the motion of waves. This can create a “slapping, pounding, or jumping motion” as water smashes against the hulls.
The Galapagos Yachts “goes with the flow.” Rather than fighting the waves, it has a gentle rocking motion. For some, this means motion sickness. However, with proper medication and knowledge of how to avoid seasickness, you need not worry unless you have had bad experiences. Here are some tips on what to do if the feeling comes.
If you know one of your children is prone to seasickness, consider the Catamaran for its stability.
So, as a guest, you have to ask yourself: Which would you prefer? You can choose the slightly rough sensation but increased stability that the catamaran provides. Or, select the “gentle rocking” of Yachts. This choice may seem to make you feel as if you are handed a catch twenty-two.
However, it is important to keep in mind that you will very rapidly acclimate to the feeling of being on a boat regardless of which option you choose. My family decided to take “motion sickness” medicine, and they had no issues. On the other hand, I skipped out on the pills and didn’t even notice the feeling of the rocking after the first night. Moreover, I think it may even have helped put me to sleep!
The main take away here is that whatever option you choose, you will acclimate. Plus, the motion won’t be on your mind after a short period of time.
Season
One very important variable to keep in mind is the season. Some seasons in the Galapagos Islands are rougher than others. You will be safe no matter what time you choose to travel. However, the sensations as described will be intensified if the waves are bigger and winders swifter. Take a look at the Galapagos seasons to get an idea of what the oceans will be like.
Private Balcony
One of the most desirable qualities of Catamarans is the balcony attached to the cabins. Who wouldn’t want this option? With the extra space, these vessels allow you to exit your room and enjoy a private view of the sea where you can relax after a long day of adventure.
This adds an extra romantic quality to the equation, where you can share a glass of wine with your significant other as you watch for dolphins and sea turtles. Other yachts also have this feature, but you are much more likely to find balconies aboard double-hull catamarans.
Now that I have discussed some of the differences of Catamarans and Yachts, I want to touch base on one of the Galapagos Yachts that breaches the size gap that a catamaran provides. This Vessel provides a superior level of spaciousness, luxury, and comfort.
All aboard the Yolita Galapagos Yacht
Cabins
A prime example of a monohull yacht that outcompetes other Yachts with its superior quality, size, and service is the Yolita Galapagos yacht. Despite the aforementioned drawbacks in the size of other Yachts, the Yolita does not suffer this issue. This spectacular ship offers twin and double cabins for its guests. These rooms have ample size for all your belongings. Whether you are a couple sharing a larger bed, or friends that need separate beds within the same cabin, the Yolita has you covered. Additionally, large windows provide you a miraculous vista. Although there are a television and a DVD player, the stunning view will likely be a distraction.
Air conditioning
Temperature is often a huge factor when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep and reaching a good level of comfort. Members of my family will be shivering at the slightest breeze, while some of my friends can’t stand when the temperature is higher than 65 degrees in their room. The Yolita Galapagos Yacht has en suite air conditioning where you can have complete control of the temperature of your preference. One final inclusion of the cabins is the towels. Don’t worry about packing them!
Facilities and Amenities
The Yolita Galapagos Yacht has a gorgeous sun deck with comfy and chic furniture to soak up the sun. Here you can watch for wildlife, and relax with your friends, family, and neighbors. Once you have had your fill of sun but still want the cool ocean breeze, sit in comfort on the covered deck.
Of all the ships in the Galapagos, the Yolita has one of the most gorgeous and comfortable lounge areas. This area is perfect for enjoying a refreshing cocktail from the bar. Later, when breakfast, lunch, or dinner rolls around, you will have the chance to feast in the dining room on some of the most delicious food you have ever tried.
Activities and Excursions
Sierra Negra
Spend seven, ten, or sixteen adventure-filled days on the Yolita Galapagos Yacht. Some of the highlights of this cruise include the Sierra Negra Volcano, where you will trek on the only Volcano permitting guests.
Kicker Rock Snorkeling
Snorkeling adventures on Kicker rock will provide sightings of a variety of sharks, sleek stingrays skimming through the water, fish zipping between brilliantly colored corals, and of course Galapagos tortoises gracefully floating along. The feeling of being amongst these creatures as if you were part of the “school” is unbelievable.
Bachas Beach
Visit the Bachas beach, where you will have the opportunity to take pictures with adorable Galapagos seals. On my trip, we saw an infant seal of only two or three months, and every guest had their heart-melting. The other seals were very curious, and waddled right up to us!
Fernandina Island
When you go snorkeling, you will literally snorkel amongst them!
This means you will be feet away from these ancient creatures.
Do not worry however, they will not bite!
Here, you will also see hundreds of beautiful birds of different kinds. With blue-footed boobies on the trails and magnificent frigate-birds overhead, you will truly feel connected with mother nature.
Click here to see some of the other wildlife you will encounter here and along the rest of your voyage.
The frequency in which you witness breathtaking moments is unrivaled.
Galapagos Tortoise
There are many more spectacular places on your journey on the Yolita Galapagos Yacht, it is definitely worth mentioning the visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center where you will see the famed mammoth gentle giants of the Galapagos… The Galapagos Tortoise. Here you will also learn about the valiant conservation efforts that are helping improve the islands.
If you see yourself journeying through the tortoise waters aboard the Yolita Galapagos Yacht, have a look at all the details on this webpage. In the corner of the screen, a chat box will pop up where you can ask any question you have to our patient and friendly staff of Greengotravels. To see other Monohull Yachts in the Galapagos fleet, visit here.
