Our Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Galapagos: A natural heritage we must protect
Ever since Charles Darwin first visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835, the archipelago has captivated the world with its extraordinary biodiversity and remarkable wildlife. It is no coincidence that the Galapagos became the first UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unparalleled natural value and global importance.
We are privileged to operate in one of the planet’s most pristine ecosystems, and with that privilege comes a profound responsibility. Protecting the unique wildlife and fragile environments of the Galapagos—both above and below the water—is at the heart of everything we do.
The Eco in Ecoventura
Sustainability has been at the heart of what we do since our inception. We are proud to have pioneered environmentally responsible tourism in the Galapagos, continuously investing in initiatives that protect this extraordinary destination for future generations.
In 2000, Ecoventura became the first recipient of the SmartVoyager ecological certification after voluntarily implementing conservation standards that were later incorporated into local regulations.
Our flagship yacht, Eric, became the first hybrid energy tour boat in the Galapagos, equipped with 40 solar panels and two wind turbines. In 2006, Ecoventura became the first carbon-neutral operation in the Galapagos, offsetting emissions through NativeEnergy while reducing our carbon footprint by 10%.
Sustainability has continued to guide the evolution of our fleet. Beginning with Origin (2016), followed by Theory (2019) and Evolve (2023), each of our custom-built luxury expedition yachts was designed to maximize efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Wave-piercing keels, an underwater bulb, an optimized bow, advanced stabilization systems, a steel hull, and a lightweight composite superstructure reduce drag, improve guest comfort, and lower emissions.
As a result, fuel consumption and carbon emissions are reduced by more than 30%, while nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are 90% lower thanks to catalytic converter systems that operate continuously.
Promoting longer stays and lower volume tourism in Galapagos
The Galapagos National Park protects the entire archipelago, with only about 3% of the Islands open to human settlement. The remaining 97% is preserved as a sanctuary for the extraordinary wildlife that makes the Galapagos one of the world’s most remarkable natural destinations. Strict conservation regulations help protect these fragile ecosystems, and every Ecoventura itinerary is designed in full alignment with these principles.
Our three luxury expedition yachts sail two complementary seven-night itineraries: Beaches & Bays (Itinerary A) and Volcanic Wonders (Itinerary B). Each explores different visitor sites, allowing guests to experience the remarkable diversity of the archipelago. For the most comprehensive Galapagos experience, many guests choose to combine both itineraries on a back-to-back voyage.
Rather than offering shorter cruises, we believe that longer, more immersive expeditions provide a more meaningful way to experience the Islands while helping reduce the environmental impact associated with increased visitor turnover and additional flights.
By prioritizing higher-value, lower-volume tourism, we remain committed to protecting the Galapagos while delivering an exceptional guest experience.
Charles Darwin Foundation Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund
We are deeply committed to supporting the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF), a non-profit organization that has led scientific research and conservation in the Galapagos since 1959.
Together with the CDF and the Galapagos National Park Directorate, we established the Galapagos Biodiversity & Education for Sustainability Fund (GBESF) in July 2017 to protect the archipelago’s unique wildlife, preserve its fragile ecosystems, and inspire future generations through environmental education.
Since launching the GBESF, we have contributed more than $800,000 to support conservation across the Galapagos. Funds are allocated to environmental education (35%), scientific research and monitoring (35%), conservation enforcement, invasive species management, and prevention of illegal wildlife trade (20%), and program management and administration (10%).
We also support organizations such as the Galapagos Conservation Trust, helping fund whale shark research and migration tracking to better understand the marine “swimway” connecting the Galapagos and Cocos Island, contributing to the protection of one of the world’s most important marine conservation corridors.
Supporting Conservation Efforts in the Galapagos
We have built long-standing partnerships with conservation organizations across the Galapagos, each playing an important role in protecting the archipelago’s unique wildlife and supporting local communities.
In collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), we established the Galapagos Marine Biodiversity Fund, which raised more than $400,000 to support community initiatives and provide scholarships for Galapagos students. Through our partnerships with Ecology Project International and Island Conservation, we also support environmental education, community outreach, and conservation programs that help protect the islands’ extraordinary terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
Recycling facility to reduce landfill in the Galapagos
As part of our ongoing sustainability journey, we partnered with Avianca to introduce two state-of-the-art recycling machines in the Galapagos. This initiative is expected to divert approximately 9,000 kg of waste annually from island landfills.
By processing recyclable materials for transport to certified recycling facilities on mainland Ecuador, we are proud to ensure that none of the waste generated on our yachts is sent to Galapagos landfills.
Through our partnership with Avianca, recyclable waste is transported on existing scheduled flights between the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador, eliminating the need for additional flights and avoiding unnecessary carbon emissions.
We remain committed to finding innovative ways to reduce our environmental footprint while protecting the extraordinary biodiversity that makes the Galapagos one of the world’s most precious natural destinations.
Reducing Carbon Emissions
Designed for greater efficiency, our yachts cruise 30% faster, allowing guests to reach more remote visitor sites while spending up to six fewer hours at sea on each itinerary. Less time cruising means lower fuel consumption, reduced carbon emissions, and more time exploring the Galapagos.
Sustainability is also built into every aspect of our onboard operations. Each yacht features an advanced wastewater treatment system and ecological dual-flush toilets, ensuring untreated wastewater is never discharged into the ocean. We also use biodegradable cleaning products, exterior lighting designed to minimize impacts on wildlife, cooling systems free of R-12 gases, and lead-free paint to help protect fragile marine ecosystems.
As technology continues to evolve, we remain committed to working with innovative, sustainability-focused partners to further reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions, and noise pollution across our fleet.
Reducing Plastic Waste and Pollution
Long before single-use plastics were restricted in the Galapagos, Ecoventura had already taken action to reduce plastic waste across our fleet. Since 2017, guests have received complimentary refillable water bottles, with filtered water refill stations available throughout each yacht, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles while on board.
Sustainability extends throughout the guest experience. Bathrooms are stocked with refillable dispensers for shampoo, conditioner, soap, and body wash, while paper straws are available upon request, further reducing unnecessary waste.
When the Galapagos Governing Council introduced restrictions on single-use plastics in 2018, including plastic straws, non-returnable plastic bottles, and plastic bags, Ecoventura had already embraced these practices—demonstrating our long-standing commitment to protecting the islands and setting a standard for sustainable tourism.
Sourcing ingredients locally from responsible providers
In our kitchens, our chefs create a dining experience worthy of Relais & Châteaux, thoughtfully balancing exceptional cuisine with a commitment to environmental and social responsibility.
We source more than 50% of our ingredients locally, partnering with small producers and artisan businesses across the Galapagos. Fresh eggs, bread, fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and sustainably caught seafood are carefully selected to celebrate the region while supporting the local economy. Our menus also highlight endemic and responsibly sourced species, such as brujo (scorpionfish), offering guests an authentic taste of the islands while reducing reliance on imported ingredients.
Beyond the Galapagos, we proudly feature wines from Bodega Dos Hemisferios, one of Ecuador’s leading wineries, further reflecting our commitment to showcasing the country’s finest local products.
Reforestation Project in Santa Cruz
As part of our commitment to ecosystem restoration, Ecoventura launched a reforestation initiative in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, helping restore native habitats and strengthen long-term land stewardship. Through the program, more than 1,100 native trees have been planted, with each tree representing a guest who chooses to participate during their expedition.
By connecting travelers with hands-on conservation efforts and supporting local communities, this initiative reflects our belief that responsible tourism should leave a positive, lasting impact on both people and nature.
Pack for a Purpose
Ecoventura has proudly partnered with Pack for a Purpose for many years, encouraging guests to make a meaningful contribution by bringing up to 5 lbs (2.27 kg) of much-needed school supplies in their luggage.
Through this initiative, we deliver donated items—including stationery, calculators, art supplies, notebooks, and educational materials—to Carlos Darwin School and Unidad Educativa Especializada Corazones Unidos on San Cristóbal Island, supporting children with disabilities and special educational needs.
Galapagos Infinito – Experiential learning
As part of our commitment to long-term conservation in the Galapagos, Ecoventura proudly supports Galapagos Infinito, a local non-profit organization dedicated to helping children build a meaningful connection with their extraordinary island home. Through A&K Philanthropy, this inspiring program introduces local students to the marine environment that surrounds them—often for the very first time.
Through Galapagos Infinito, boats become floating classrooms where seventh-grade students spend several days exploring the archipelago alongside teachers and certified naturalist guides. For many children, it is their first opportunity to visit the uninhabited islands and experience the remarkable biodiversity that makes the Galapagos unique.
Beyond exploring nature, students take on onboard roles such as mechanic, cook, and captain, developing teamwork, responsibility, leadership, and self-confidence. By combining immersive learning with environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism, the program inspires the next generation of Galapagos guardians.
With Ecoventura’s support, Galapagos Infinito has acquired a dedicated vessel for educational day trips and overnight expeditions, expanding opportunities for local children to experience and protect the islands they call home.
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