Find out what we at Pura really think about a Galapagos cruise on board Isabela II.
Isabela Galapagos Wildlife Cruise » More
Pura’s opinion
Isabela II is one of the most comfortable of the Galapagos small cruise ships.
Isabela II is very comfortable with lots of space, great service and crew.
There is even a doctor on board.
Isabela II has a glass bottomed boat as well as sea kayaks for anyone who doesn’t want to snorkel.
Shortie wetsuits are included from June through December to keep out the chill.
This is a premium Galapagos wildlife cruise experience on a 40 passenger boat.
Star rating
This is a deluxe class motor cruiser.
Accommodation
All cabins are a fair size, the standard cabins are 12.5 square metres.
All are outside with lower beds, some twin, some double. All have wardrobes.
There are 21 cabins in total.
16 classic cabins with lower beds which are set up as twins.
There is also 2 classic double cabins which provides a sofa bed. And then 2 double standard cabins have one full size bed so can actually be used as a single. They both are around 13sqm.
Isabela II provides one 18,90sqm master suite situated on the main deck aswell.
All cabins have private facilities, permanent hot and cold water, closets, fully carpeted and air- conditioned throughout.
The communal areas are large and very comfortable it included a lounge-bar, reading room, and dining room with capacity for all guests in one seating, office and boutique, ample sun deck with a Jacuzzi, exercise equipment and observation deck.
Stability
Being a larger ship she is really quite stable in the water.
In addition, the boat follows a route which is relatively protected from the prevailing winds (coming from the south west).
However, there is bound to be some movement and this will be most noticeable between July and October.
Noise
You should be aware that on any boat you will have some noise from generators and from the engine when travelling. Given the substantial construction and size of Isabela II this is not generally at all intrusive.
Isabela II boat specification
Length on deck: 54m/166ft
Boat width (beam): 11,6/38ft
Average speed: 10 knots
Crew: 24 plus 3 guides & 1 doctor
How active?
In the Galapagos, wildlife viewing is the main activity. There is some gentle walking and snorkeling.
Conditions underfoot in the Galapagos can sometimes be rough as the islands are volcanic. You should therefore be prepared for some walking over uneven terrain. You can always opt out of excursions.
How responsible?
The owners of Isabella II set up the Fundacion Galapagos Ecuador in 1998 which is aimed at preserving the ecosystems of the Galapagos.
This has four main objectives, as follows:
1) Environmental education programmes for the island communities.
2) Solid waste recycling centre on Santa Cruz which sorts, compacts and sends back waste to the mainland for processing and manufacturing.
3) Coastal clean ups to collect any floating debris around the Galapagos to bring them back onto Santa Cruz for processing.
4) Community projects to engage locals in the sustainable use of resources. This ranges from handicraft production to a bakery supplying Galapagos boats with their provisions.
*When should I go? *
In the Galapagos, wildlife viewing is excellent year round. Weather and sea conditions do vary somewhat through the year: September is the coolest and choppiest-sea month. From October onwards the weather warms up and the waters calm down until the hottest, calmest-sea month of February.
Useful Links
As you already know, Pura Aventura is dedicated to safe and responsible travel. The links below provide useful content and more information about Ecuador. Please call us of any special requirements on 01273 676 712.
Country Information
FCO
The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office provides useful travel advice on Ecuador.
BBC News
BBC News provides useful information about Ecuador. Read more about it.
Official Government website
Find out more about Ecuador, by visiting its official government website.
Prepare your holiday
Health
Before you go on your holiday to Ecuador, please ensure you have the correct vaccinations. Check out the NHS website for advice, visit your GP or a travel clinic.
Weather
For the forecast in Ecuador, visit wunderground.
Pura’s Amazon shop
Browse our own Ecuador selection in Amazon.co.uk for a wide range of travel essentials, such as books, gadgets, clothing, etc. in preparation for your upcoming holiday.
Flight deals
Find the best flight deals for your holiday to Ecuador with Kayak, Expedia, or Opodo.
Medias
YouTube
Subscribe to Pura's YouTube channel and get our video last updates!
Flickr & Pinterest
Discover our holidays by tacking a careful look at our photographs on Flickr and Pinterest.



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