For travelers seeking a luxury expedition cruise in the Galapagos, choosing the right yacht is more than selecting an itinerary—it is choosing a philosophy. At Ecoventura, that philosophy is rooted in our pride as a Relais & Châteaux member, a distinction that reflects our commitment to exceptional hospitality, culinary excellence, and responsible travel.
Since 2018, Ecoventura has proudly operated the only Relais & Châteaux–member yachts in the Galapagos—an honor that reflects our commitment to the highest standards in boutique expedition travel.
A Legacy of Excellence: From 1954 to the Galapagos
Relais & Châteaux began in 1954, founded by eight independent hoteliers in France who believed hospitality could be a force for good—an expression of culture, community, and a deep respect for place.
Today, the association encompasses more than 580 properties worldwide, each selected for character, authenticity, and a relentless pursuit of quality.
For Ecoventura, joining Relais & Châteaux was not a milestone—it was a natural alignment.
For 35 years, we have pioneered expedition travel in the Galapagos. When we launched our first luxury yacht, Origin, in 2016, followed by Theory in 2018 and Evolve in 2023, joining Relais & Châteaux became a defining affirmation of the values that have shaped us from the beginning.
Our membership is not a label—it is a reflection of our DNA.
Becoming a Relais & Châteaux Member: A Standard Earned
Joining Relais & Châteaux is not automatic—it is a distinction that must be earned.
Our admission required over a year of evaluations and compliance checks, ensuring that every aspect of our hospitality met the association’s rigorous standards. As part of our membership, we also undergo periodic anonymous inspections, which help us maintain and continually elevate the guest experience.
The Relais & Châteaux Code of Quality: Woven Into Our DNA
Relais & Châteaux’s philosophy is built on five pillars:
Character, Courtesy, Calm, Charm, and Cuisine.
These are not abstract ideals—they are the standards our teams live by on every departure.
On board, this translates to:
- Personalized, gracious service from naturalist guides, concierges, and crew.
- Four-course dining crafted by Relais & Châteaux–trained chefs.
- Local culinary identity, using ingredients sourced responsibly from the islands.
- An atmosphere of tranquility, with just 20 guests per yacht.
- Meaningful connection to nature, culture, and conservation.
Guests consistently tell us that discovering our Relais & Châteaux membership is a deciding factor in choosing Ecoventura. For them, it is a global symbol of trust—one that speaks to quality, sustainability, and world-class hospitality.
Sustainability & Local Sourcing: A Shared Commitment
Ecoventura and Relais & Châteaux share the belief that gastronomy should uplift communities and protect ecosystems.
On our yachts:
- Over 50% of ingredients are sourced in the Galapagos.
- We partner with local farmers, fishers, and small businesses.
- We embrace low-impact operations aligned with the fragile environment we explore.
Supporting the islands’ economy is not just responsible—it enriches the culinary experience on board.
A Family in Ecuador: Our Relais & Châteaux Allies
Ecuador is home to just five Relais & Châteaux members—and we proudly consider them family:
- Casa Gangotena, Quito
- Zazu Restaurant, Quito
- Hotel del Parque, Guayaquil
- Pikaia Lodge, Santa Cruz Island
- Ecoventura, Galapagos (Origin, Theory & Evolve)
We recommend these properties to guests seeking a complete Relais & Châteaux experience in Ecuador before or after their Galapagos expedition.
Together, we form a network of hospitality leaders who celebrate Ecuador’s cultural and culinary richness.
Collaboration, Learning & Culinary Inspiration
Being part of a global association allows our team to grow, share knowledge, and innovate.
Through cross-trainings with other Relais & Châteaux properties, our chefs and hospitality teams gain exposure to new techniques, traditions, and service philosophies.
These exchanges inspire us to create memorable onboard experiences, such as:
- Collaborative culinary departures with renowned chefs like
Christian Puente of Pikaia Lodge
Santiago Nieto of Hotel del Parque
Our chefs wear their Fleur de Lys jacket with pride—an emblem of craftsmanship and passion.
Why Relais & Châteaux Matters for Your Galapagos Expedition
Choosing a Relais & Châteaux member yacht means:
- Uncompromising service standards
- Elevated, meaningful cuisine
- A commitment to sustainability
- Authentic connection to local culture
- Intimate travel with no more than 20 guests
- Trusted quality recognized worldwide
For many travelers, this is the assurance they seek when embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to one of the most fragile and extraordinary ecosystems on Earth.
Experience the Galapagos with the Only Relais & Châteaux Yachts
A Relais & Châteaux expedition with Ecoventura is not a cruise—it is an immersion in nature, culture, and community, guided by values shared with one of the world’s most respected hospitality associations.
From the onboard cuisine to our environmental commitments, from our guides to our partnerships, every detail reflects a promise: to make the world better through hospitality.
If you seek a Galapagos journey defined by authenticity, luxury, and purpose, we invite you to experience the islands with us.
