Sangay Touring® rents a limited number of full body 3.2 mm wet suits (mens & womens) for those visiting the Galapagos Islands and do not have access to this equipment aboard your cruise boat. Rentals are done directly in our offices in Quito:
Amazonas N23-31 (between Wilson & Vientimilla)
Quito, Ecuador
(02) 222-1336 / 2560-428 / 2560-426
Monday to Friday / 09h00 to 18h30
Wetsuit rental rates:
7-night cruise: $50 per wetsuit
4-night cruise: $30 per wetsuit
3-night cruise: $25 per wetsuit
Deposit: $200 per wetsuit
All renters must fill out a rental/waiver form.
We prefer that you try on the wetsuit to make sure you get a good fit.
Rental fee and security deposit must be paid prior to leaving the office with the suit(s).
If you pick up the wetsuit(s) the day before your cruise and return the wetsuit(s) the day after your return from the Galapagos Islands, there is no extra charge.
If you wish to pick up the wetsuit(s) more than one (1) day before your cruise, there is a $10 per day fee.
All wetsuits must be picked up and returned to our offices in Quito.
Prices do not include (unless otherwise specified):
· Round trip airfare to Galapagos (which is booked in conjunction with the cruise);
· Galapagos National Park fee US $100.00 (To be paid in cash only upon arrival in Galapagos);
· Ingala Immigration card of US $10.00 (To be paid in cash in the airport in Quito)
· Tips/gratuities;
· Alcoholic beverages & extra drinks;
Ecotourism (also known as ecological tourism) is responsible travel to fragile, pristine, and usually protected areas that strives to be low impact and (often) small scale. It purports to educate the traveler; provide funds for ecological conservation; directly benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local communities; and foster respect for different cultures and for human rights. Ecotourism is held as important by those who participate in it so that future generations may experience aspects of the environment relatively untouched by human intervention.
Ecotourism may appeal to ecologically and socially conscious individuals. Generally it focuses on volunteering, personal growth and environmental responsibility. Ecotourism typically involves travel to destinations where flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. One of the goals of ecotourism is to offer tourists insight into the impact of human beings on the environment, and to foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats.
Responsible ecotourism includes programs that minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, an integral part of ecotourism is the promotion of recycling, energy efficiency, water conservation, and creation of economic opportunities for local communities.
The problems associated with defining ecotourism have led to confusion among tourists and academics alike. Definitional problems are also subject of considerable public controversy and concern because of green washing, a trend towards the commercialization of tourism schemes disguised as sustainable, nature based, and environmentally friendly ecotourism.
It appears to boil down to definition.
True ‘eco tourism’, seems to be more of an ideal than a reality. At best it should be a responsible, serious and sustained attempt. Looking at this way, there are many aspects of Galapagos Islands tourism that can be adequately classified here … but sadly, a great deal that without a doubt definitely falls far outside these notions.
If you are an idealist … Galapagos Islands tourism is almost complete ‘greenwashing’
If you are a realist …… Galapagos Islands tourism is a confusing and frustrating mix of ‘greenwashing’ and true attempts at eco-tourism.
That being said, there are numerous things that anyone can do to put their grain of sand into the efforts …. and it starts with responsibility.
Living and working in the heart of Quito allows me a privileged eye witness evaluation of the recent events here in Quito, Ecuador.
Reports with titles such as “State of Emergency in Ecuador cripples tourism” & “Revolution” are not only exaggerated but somewhat sensationalist. Reminds of such things as the H1N1 hype. One would be rather disappointed walking the around the streets of Quito today with these notions. I am not sure how, in a 24-hour period, one can claim the effects of a ‘crippled tourism’ in Ecuador – uncertainty and occasional inconveniences with flights is one thing but a crippled tourism? In fact, when the last major volcanic eruption occurred that directly affected Quito (due to heavy volcanic ash fall and the necessary closure of the airport), there was a temporarily greater inconvenience on tourism than the events of September 30th, 2010 in Quito and Ecuador.
September 30th, 2010 started out as any typical Thursday morning here in Ecuador’s capital city of Quito – heavy early morning traffic with ‘pico y placa‘ in effect (traffic restriction based on the last digit of license plates, with 7 & 8 not permitted to circulate between 07h30 and 09h30 on Thursday), families taking their children to school, Quitenos on their way to work etc.
On route to drop off my two children at school just before 08h00, a small drama unfolded before me on the Occidental (peripheral north/south road skirting Quito) as an individual was caught red handed attempting to steal and flee in a stolen pickup truck. Half a dozen police, with hand guns drawn, ran between the slow moving traffic to finally apprehended the individual. Up until this point at least, there was a normal presence of police throughout the capital.
Having arrived at the office in the heart of the Mariscal (tourist district) a little early, I prepared my morning cup of coffee while the computer systems booted up and the staff started to arrive for the 09h00 opening of the office. One of the employees, having arrived a little tardy, explained that there was unusual traffic chaos near a Police barracks on the Mariana de Jesus Street – with apparent burning tires; hence his tardiness. Then business started as usual.
During the course of the morning, unofficial and informal information started to filter through that there was a lack of police presence and that apparently the police were on strike. Various phone calls from friends and contacts throughout the city confirmed that no police where to be seen and that apparently they were on strike over disagreement with a new legislation that supposedly cuts there benefits.
The TV was tuned into local stations to see if any news was being reported. Other than a group of disgruntled police protesting, nothing else appeared. As the morning advanced, it became obvious that a general sense of insecurity (due to the obvious lack of regular police presence) started to increase and rumors of various banks and establishments being robbed started floating through the grapevine. Businesses started to close or partial close their doors with the heightening sense of insecurity.
News started to air that the Quito and Guayaquil airports were seized by the military and all airport operations were shut. This was confirmed by the distinct lack of flights over Quito, along with sporadic protests and looting in other cities like Cuenca and Guayaquil.
The area in front of the Presidential Palace continued to fill throughout the day with pro-government supporters, complete with banners and chanting.
Now nearing noon, all TV and radio stations were airing the ‘Cadena Nacional‘ (Government controlled news) that, one by one, interviewed government officials and individuals reporting their support for the government and covering an incident where President Rafael Correa was pushed and shoved during his encounter with a group of police protesting and burning tires. Tear gas was fired and apparent the President was rushed off to the nearest police hospital.
The Government declared a State of Emergency and news that both Colombia and Peru had closed their borders to Ecuador (a standard protocol under these circumstances).
As the early afternoon continued, the Cadena Nacional continued their reporting, with comments insinuating that there were sabotage attempts on the transmission antennas. The sense of general insecurity in the city continued to grow, along with rumors of what might be happening, is happening … including a coup. Businesses, for the most part, started to close operations and people started to head from work. A great deal of speculation was in the air, but Quito was relatively calm…. with early traffic that was not only respectful but relatively orderly (keeping in mind that no traffic officials were present).
The Quito airport reopened in the late evening, with limited number of flights entering and exiting the airport.
In the course of the evening, around about 20h30 or so, local TV stations came back on air (supposedly the transmission antennas were cut thereby allowing regular transmissions to air). Around 21h30 a local media report airing live started to transmit a massive Special Operations tactical force starting to storm the Police hospital where the President was apparently held by a group of police. A massive cross of gunfire started to occur for the next 35 minutes, with the final rescue of the President – who was rapidly fled from the scene in a government vehicle and taken directly to the Presidential Palace. The gunfire in and around the hospital apparently continued for another hour or so, while the President appeared before the supporters from the Presidential Palace balcony making a speech.
Today, Friday October 1st, 2010
Quito awoke in relative normality, with news that the Guayaquil airport remained closed due to the lack of corresponding airport staff to check and managed luggage, while the Quito airport remained fully operational.
The streets appeared normal but with little, if any police present – and no military. Passing by the nearest Military barracks, I noticed a number or armored vehicles preparing to move out on the streets. Arriving at the office, there was still a sense of insecurity as no police were in sight. Banks decided to allow groups of 5 or 6 enter at a time.
By 10h00, a limited number of police started to appear back on the streets, and limited number of military convoys started deploying military in key locations. As the morning advanced, the police started to reappear as normal and the military presence disappeared.
Note: This report covers activities and eye witness testimony in the Mariscal tourist district. I cannot vouch that events in possible ‘hot spots’ – such as the Presidential Palace area and/or around the Police barracks are the same. That being said, however, walking the streets of Quito one would never have known of the events of the previous day.
The unfortunate events of Thursday were in isolated sectors of some cities (i.e., Guayaquil & Quito) and restricted to specific special interest groups, and cannot be generalized to the entire country.
Now late afternoon, Quito has apparently recovered and returned back to its normal routine.
The Galapagos Islands are one of the few places in the world that remain relatively untouched by human exploitation. The preservation of the environment is everybody’s responsibility. You can help, by following some simple rules which will help to maintain the archipelago’s fragile ecosystem intact. The future depends on everyone.
Because of its unique nature, the plants, animals and rocks should stay on site so that there is no change. Nothing must be taken away from the Islands, except photos.
Please avoid the introduction of foreign organisms such as animals, seeds, plants and insects as they cause serious problems.
Galapagos animals should not be touched or petted for your safety because they can quickly loose their tmeness and change their behaviour.
The endemic and native fauna of Galapagos has its natural form for feeding. Therefore, do not give them any type of food because it could harm them.
The Galapagos marine birds leave their nests if you disturb or follow them. They will leave their eggs or chicks alone on the ground or leave them exposed to the sun. Therefore you may watch the birds at a distance of no less then two meters.
Visitors sites at the Galapagos National Park are marked to guarantee your safety. You cannot leave the paths.
Garbage of any type interferes with natural processes and takes away the enchantment of the unique Islands scenery. Do not dispose garbage at visitors sites, in the ocean or near the Islands.
Please avoid purchasing souvenirs made of flora and fauna of the Islands, like black coral, marine tortoise shells, sea lion teeth or shells. This goes against the principles of conservation.
Writing names and phrases of any type on rocks, walls etc is a sign of bad manners and rudeness and damages the scenery.
Fire or smoking within Park areas is not allowed as a fire could start with a match or a cigarette that is not put out completely and can cause uncontrollable bush fires, death and destruction.
Fishing on board of tourist ships is not permitted. Please colaborate with the Natioanl Park Service by reporting any transgression to the management of the Galapagos National Park.
If you want to camp in the authorized sites or do commercial fishing you have to request a permit from the Galapagos National Park Director. Please contact us at any of out technical offices located in the inhabited Islands (San Cristobel, Santa Cruz, Isabela or Floreana).
The Galapagos National Park & Sangay Touring thanks you for respecting these rules.
“Most people visit the Galapagos Islands only once in their lifetime … … so make sure it’s well planned & a truly memorable experience”
Do you have a question or concern? When to go? What islands? Where are the unique wildlife? How to get a good deal? What boats are good for me? What about the guide? Sea sickness?
Take advantage of numerous additional destinations, including the AMAZON RAIN FOREST (link) and PERU (link).
Want a realistic point of view, not just another salesperson trying to sell you anything just to make a sale? Contact info@sangay.com.
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Please note that the specific availability / last minute spaces are updated extremely regularly (the last update date you will find just above the date offer chart).
The most recent (freshest) posts are indicated on the right side of the page, under the title Recent Posts.
AMAZON RAIN FOREST SECTION …
This is where you will find any current special offers and promotions to these select Amazon destinations.
As a public courtesy, and following Sangay Touring’s constant ethical and professional approach to Galapagos cruises, we publish the following regarding the economic Galapagos Islands boat, M/Y Gaby (aka Gabi):
Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism
Oficio No.- MT-GRG-2010-0013
Date: January 21, 2010
To all tour operators and agencies we inform you of the report by the Puerto Ayora Port Captain [see below excerpt section]. In addition we take this opportunity to inform you that, due to numerous complaints regarding the incompletion of services provided by the operator of the Gaby, the respective legal department of the Minsitry of Tourism will be exectuting in the following days, in conjuction with the Direccion Juridica, the respective administrative and legal procedures to ensure that all the pertinent and legal procedures are applied.
Official communication [translation of pertinent sections] from Capitania de Puerto Ayora, Galapagos
Date: January 18, 2010
The boat, Gaby, is currently prohibited to navigate due to the incompletion of Internaitonal security regulations. The boat, due to damages to its motor and generator, cannot navigate December 28th, 29th & 30th 2009 and after 3 inspections conducted by the Puerto Ayora Port captain to verify the boat’s condition has decided to stop its operation until such time as the boat returns to satisfactory conditions.
Selecting a short cruise (i.e., 3 or 4-nights) when a longer cruise is what you want; or selecting a long cruise (i.e., 7-nights) when a shorter cruise is really want you need.
What is not commonly stated is the following: The first and last day of any given cruise are short days (as they are based on the flight arrival and departure schedules into/out of Galapagos). Cruises really start with the arrival of your flight into Galapagos between 09h30 and 11h30 the morning of the first day of the cruise in Galapagos, and end between 08h30 and 10h30 in the morning of the last day of the cruise. Most classify Galapagos cruises as 4-DAY, 5-DAYS and 8-DAYS when these cruises really translates into 2, 3 and 6 full days, respectively (or 3, 4 and 7 full nights, respectively) in the Galapagos Islands. The two partial days at the beginning and end of the cruise are mainly occupied traveling to and from the islands.
In my years of experience I have equal numbers saying that a 4-night cruise was the perfect length, while others stated that the 7-night experience was without a doubt the best. If you want to cover as much of the diversity that the Galapagos has to offer, the 7-night cruise is the best and only option for you.
TYPE OF VESSEL
Selecting a cruise ship when a smaller vessel is more your style; or selecting a sailing boat when a motor or cruise ship is really what you’re after. The vast majority of the non-cruise ships are, on average, for 16 passengers (allocated into 8 double cabins). There are a small handful that carry less (i.e., 10 passengers) an equal number that can carry up to 24 passengers.
PHYSICAL ASPECT: There are different advantages and disadvantages of the various types of vessel (cruise ship, motor catamaran, motor-sail catamaran, motor boat, sailing and motor-sailers). The larger and heavier the vessel, the more stable it is in the water. The most stable (important for those extremely sensitive to sea sickness) are the large capacity cruise ships (i.e., Eclipse, Evolution, Galapagos Explorer II, Galapagos Legend, Isabella II, La Pinta & Santa Cruz). These vessels carry between 32 to 100 passengers, have spacious and well acquainted cabins & facilities, spacious decks and social areas and highly qualified and trained crew members. Cabins are generally allocated on two (or more) different decks. Several boast jacuzzis, gyms and other perks. The possible disadvantages (depending obviously on one’s point of view) are the following: (1) generally attract an older and higher socio-economic clientele; (2) a greater number of fellow passengers; (3) the activities are generally geared towards older passengers so are not demanding (for those wanting a more active cruise – plenty of snorkeling & hiking etc – a smaller vessel is better suited for you); and (4) slower boarding and debarking of the vessel (i.e., for island visits) as passengers are divided into smaller groups of 16 to 20 passengers each.
Turning to the non-cruise ship options, you have (1) the catamarans – motor & motor sailers – that include Valkiria, Archipel I (aka Galapagos Journey III), Archipel II, Nemo II, Queen Beatriz (aka GAP VI), Queen of Galapagos, Seaman II, Treasure of Galapagos, Anahi, Athala & Nina; (2) sailing & motor sailers like Angelique, Encantada, Beagle, Cachalote, Mary Anne, Nautilus, Sagitta & Alta; and (3) the motor boats – which is the largest list of vessels in Galapagos.
The heavy, wide motor catamaran version (i.e., Archipel I & II, Anahi etc) are not only well appointed, but due to the width of the vessel are spacious in terms of cabins and social areas and stable. Some even have onboard jacuzzi to soak into after a long day hiking the islands. The lighter motor sailing catamarans (i.e., Valkiria, Nemo II etc) are comfortable and relatively spacious, but not as stable as their heavy motor brothers above.
The sailing boats (most of them are technically motor sailers – when there isn’t sufficient wind, I think you would be glad that they can still navigate under motor power!) are long and narrow by nature. This makes them vulnerable to swaying (or rocking) in the seas … even when anchored. Most of these vessels have small and somewhat cramped cabins and limited deck and social areas. However, vessels like the Beagle, Cachalote, Mary Anne, and Alta have an attractive and cozy atmosphere aboard. These vessels are, without a doubt, geared more towards your adventurous and active passenger. They provide and intimate experience – something that is hard to replicate on a large cruise ship.
The bulk of the Galapagos cruise vessels fall into the ‘motor’ category – from your small, old & basic economic motor boats like the Amigo, Rumba & New Flamingo right up to the luxurious and relatively spacious Galaxy, Voyager & Grace and Tip Top IV etc. The wider and heavier the motor boat is, the more stable it is. Many (but not all) of these motor vessels have cabins allocated on two (or more) different decks.
CABINS: While most Galapagos boats only have double cabins (cabin for two people), a very limited number have single and/or triple cabin arrangements. The standard bedding arrangements are upper/lower twin bed berths (bunk beds), while a good number – generally in the First and Deluxe classes – may have several cabins that have one double bed and/or two lower twin beds. With very few exceptions, almost every cabin on the various Galapagos boats has its own private facilities (i.e., shower, bathroom, hot/cold water etc). Cabin location can be important. Generally speaking (but depends on the mechanical layout of the boat in question) the father forward and up the cabin is, the farther away you will be from the motors/generators. This translates into less noise, vibration, heat and possible fuel aroma.
Regardless of the vessel, they all navigate and operate in a similar fashion – the major inter-island transitions (i.e., from Espanola over to Floreana, for example) are done on the overnight hours. That way, when you awake the next day, the boat is already anchored off the island to be visited that morning. This maximizes the daylights hours, and thereby attempting to reduce transitions during the day to a minimum. There are occasional transitions done on some boats between the morning and afternoon visit (these transitions may be to another point on the same island or to a nearby island). These however are generally not that noticeable as passengers are enjoying lunch aboard during the transition.
That being said, there is no one Galapagos cruise that is perfect for everyone. Each person has his or her particular likes and dislikes, expectations and requirements. Some prefer the large, comfortable cruise ships that carry 40 to 100 passengers while most prefer a more intimate, smaller option.
Part II to follow shortly … which will cover important aspects as itineraries, naturalist guides, boat classes, time of year etc.
It appears as though there is an increasing trend and probability that on numerous Galapagos Islands cruises – even high-end deluxe class cruises – that the chance of having money ‘go missing’ from one’s cabin (for cruise boats that do not supply a safety deposit box or other security measures) is becoming more frequent.
The whole tip issue and security for money, requirement to have large sums of money on hand, only asks for this kind of trouble.
The main problem is that expecting to have to pay large tips IN CASH sets up a security problem. There are no safes in the rooms. There was major crew turnover half way through the trip. It only takes one bad apple. I took $1000 cash, my wife about $500. Some other system needs to be in place. A safe, keys to room with only one crew member having access…something.
Again, a wonderful cruise in many respects, but tainted by the missing $100 and the safety concerns are also very real.
Sangay Touring® strongly urges clients visiting the Galapagos to take all necessary precautions and steps, if travelling with sums of cash to beware, becareful and be cautious …. especially if your hotel or boat does not provide guests a safety deposit box or other secure method to store your valuables.
Established in 1992, Sangay Touring® has over 15 years of proven experience in Ecuador and Galapagos travel arrangements and assistance. Over the years we have continued to adapt and evolve to ensure that we exceed the needs and requirements of our valued clients. Our continued growth is largely due to the continued recommendations and referrals of our extremely satisfied clients.
Our mandate is is provide each and every client the most ample, accurate and detailed information required to make a well informed, educated travel decisions and arrangements.
Our difference is the level of personalized attention and assistance each client receives. We are recommended in such distiguished sites and guide books as LonelyPlanet, Fodors, TripAdvisor, VirtualTourist, and South American Explorer’s Club.
Our success can be summed up in several terms:
* Years of proven service;
* Trust and confidence;
* Attention to details;
* Competitive prices:
* Accurate & reliable information;
* Recommendations & referrals from past clients.
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE …
* GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
* AMAZON RAIN FOREST
* CLOUD FOREST
* TRANSPORTATION (private & shared basis);
* ONE DAY TOURS from Quito
* ACCOMMODATION reservations
* PERU (Lima, Cuzco, Machu Picchu)
Sangay Touring® rents a limited number of full body 3.2 mm wet suits (mens & womens) for those visiting the Galapagos Islands and do not have access to this equipment aboard your cruise boat. Rentals are done directly in our offices in Quito:
From 
CRUISE LENGTH
TYPE OF VESSEL
Galapagos last minute tours – ANGELIQUE
WE HAVE CEASED OFFERING THIS OPTION.
WE HAVE CEASED OFFERING THIS OPTION.
Galapagos last minute on ANGELIQUE.
NOTE: Spaces, prices & availabilities are subject to change. [Last updated: July 1st, 2011]