The Galapagos Islands are not just a destination — they are our compass, our inspiration, and our responsibility. For 35 years, these enchanted islands have shaped the way we travel, teaching us that exploration can be meaningful, gentle, and deeply connected to nature and community.
Over the last decade, we have taken this ethos further, redefining what luxury at sea in the Galapagos truly means — intimate, sustainable, and unforgettable.
How We Became Ecoventura: 35 Years of Inspiration, Innovation, and Stewardship
Looking back, we don’t see just a timeline of milestones — we see moments. Moments like the first time we watched a giant tortoise crossing the highlands, or the laughter of local children receiving scholarships, or the quiet awe of guests watching blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dance.
The story of Ecoventura is shaped by the islands themselves. The volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife have taught us that true expedition travel is not about ticking boxes — it’s about connection, curiosity, and respect.
Over 35 years, our Galapagos cruises have evolved in design, luxury, and sustainability — but our purpose has remained constant: to create meaningful experiences that leave gentle footprints.
1991 — A Promise to Explore Gently
When Ecoventura was founded in 1991, we had one simple goal: to explore the Galapagos with care.
We designed our expeditions to be intimate and thoughtful:
- Small groups of no more than 20 guests
- Local, expert naturalist guides
- Curated wildlife encounters
- Zodiac excursions that bring you close to sea lions and marine iguanas
- Sunrise hikes across volcanic landscapes
From the very first voyage, we prioritized meaningful exploration over mass tourism. Each day onboard reflects this promise — to explore gently, attentively, and respectfully.
1999 — Early Leadership in Sustainable Travel in the Galapagos
Before “sustainable travel” was a travel industry trend, we were already committed to it.
In 1999, we partnered with organizations like the Rainforest Alliance and WWF to set early standards for responsible tourism in the Galapagos. This included:
- Carbon-neutral operations
- Smart Voyager certification
- Wildlife protection initiatives
- Waste reduction and education programs for travelers
Sustainability was never a buzzword for us — it became the foundation of our luxury Galapagos cruises.
2006 — From Intention to Action
By 2006, our conservation work became more intentional and community-focused.
We expanded scholarship programs for local children and partnered with initiatives like Pack for a Purpose, ensuring our impact went beyond the deck of our yachts.
This shift from intention to action earned recognition, including Travel + Leisure’s Global Vision and Condé Nast Traveler’s World Savers Awards.
But for us, the real reward has always been seeing our guests become part of these meaningful efforts — knowing that every journey contributes to the preservation of the Galapagos.
2016 — Redefining Luxury Expedition Cruises in the Galapagos
A turning point arrived in 2016. We asked ourselves: can luxury and sustainability exist together? With the launch of Origin, we proved that they could.
Origin — A New Era of Luxury at Sea
Origin redefined what a Galapagos expedition yacht could be:
- Spacious staterooms with ocean views
- Personalized service with an attentive crew-to-guest ratio
- Farm-to-table cuisine highlighting local, sustainable ingredients
- Advanced environmental technologies for reduced emissions and fuel efficiency
Every detail reflected our philosophy: sustainable luxury is not only possible — it is essential.
2017 — Investing in the Future of the Galapagos
In collaboration with the Charles Darwin Foundation, we helped launch the Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF), an initiative designed to protect the archipelago for generations to come. Over the years, this program has raised over $800,000 to support conservation research, environmental education, and community projects that safeguard the islands’ unique biodiversity.
Every guest who sails with us becomes part of this effort. Your journey contributes directly to meaningful programs that protect wildlife, support local communities, and ensure that the Galapagos remain a thriving, vibrant ecosystem — a reminder that travel can leave a positive mark when done with care.
2018 — A New Standard of Hospitality at Sea
In 2018, Ecoventura joined the Relais & Châteaux association, a milestone that recognized our dedication not only to nature immersion but also to exceptional service and hospitality. This honor reflects years of careful attention to the details that make a journey truly memorable, from culinary experiences rooted in local ingredients to personalized, intuitive service on board.
Being part of Relais & Châteaux allows us to elevate expedition cruising in the Galapagos without losing authenticity. Every element of life on our yachts — from the design to the interactions with our crew — is thoughtfully curated to create seamless, immersive experiences that celebrate the islands while offering the comfort and refinement our guests have come to expect.
2019 — Theory Joins the fleet
Theory — Comfort, Simplicity, and Connection
In 2019, Theory joined the fleet, complementing Origin’s elegance with simplicity and connection.
Guests enjoy:
- Seamless interaction with the crew and captain
- Open spaces designed to immerse you in the Galapagos environment
- Intimate wildlife encounters and curated excursions
- Thoughtfully sourced cuisine inspired by Ecuadorian flavors
With Theory, we continue to show that luxury at sea is about meaningful experiences, not excess.
2022 — Ecoventura is acquired by AKTG (Abercrombie Kent Travel Group)
This allows Ecoventura to benefit from the strengths and prestige of the A&K brand and grow into new destinations within Latin America. It’s also an opportunity to bring a vast amount of experience together and work towards a shared vision. Both companies have a pioneering spirit and years of experience in delivering exceptional luxury adventures. Ecoventura also supports A&K Philanthropy through the Galapagos Infinity project.
2023 — Evolve and the Future of Sustainable Luxury Cruises
The launch of Evolve in 2023 brought our vision full circle: refined design, reduced emissions, and a focus on thoughtful travel.
Evolve embodies our philosophy: beauty at sea should not come at the cost of nature. Each journey is curated to leave gentle footprints while offering exceptional comfort and connection to the Galapagos.
Today — Still Intimate. Still Local. Still Guided by the Islands
After 35 years, our mission has deepened, not changed.
- Intimate: maximum 20 guests per yacht
- Local: supporting education, scholarships, and community projects
- Guided by the islands: expert naturalists ensure every encounter is meaningful
Every moment — from watching a sea lion pup to seeing a giant tortoise in the highlands — reminds us why the Galapagos are worth protecting.
Join the Journey
Whether you dream of close wildlife encounters, sustainable adventure, or luxury immersion in nature, Ecoventura has crafted experiences that honor the essence of the Galapagos.
Thank you for being part of this story. Together, we travel not just to the Galapagos — but with the Galapagos in our hearts.
