Southwind Adventures Introduces Galapagos Yacht La Pinta

Travelers experience a combination of activity, relaxation and learning about the archipelago's living laboratory of wildlife and geology.

La Pinta's 8-day cruise includes two daily island excursions where guests experience nature hikes guided by naturalists certified by the Charles Darwin Research Station, snorkeling with playful sea lions, kayaking, viewing marine life on the glass-bottom boat, or just relaxing on the beach. All meals are included and served onboard, with the chef preparing a mixture of international and local Ecuadorian cuisine catering to a wide range of palates, enjoyed in either the stately dining room or al fresco on the Sun Deck. The 207-foot yacht offers 24 ample staterooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning and plush bedding. Due to the popularity of family travel, multiple cabins are connected, and the attentive crew provides a "Young Pirates" program with staff dedicated to special activities, meals and interpretive materials for guests ages 7 and up. Passengers also have the confidence of 24-hour access to a live-aboard doctor.

Southwind and La Pinta are committed to preserving the Galápagos ecosystem for future generations. The yacht has received Smartvoyager certification, an accredited conservation program, for onboard environmental and recycling efforts. Also, part of each traveler's trip cost goes to La Pinta's Galápagos Foundation, which organizes projects such as coastal cleaning outings.

2009 Land Costs for the 11-day Galápagos Wildlife Odyssey start at $5,965 p.p.d. (per person based on double occupancy) excluding airfare, representing one of the best values among vessels of its class. The expedition also features cultural tours on mainland Ecuador, including visits to local markets and artisans. Travelers have the option of extending their adventure to one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, Peru's Machu Picchu. Due to its consistent temperate climate, departures are available on request year-round.

Southwind Adventures has been a specialist in providing upscale journeys for discerning travelers to South America's Andes, Amazon & Galápagos since 1990. As a boutique operator with an expertise in designing custom adventures to some of the continent's hottest destinations, the company was recently recognized as one of the "Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure for the second year in a row. A full listing of trips with detailed itineraries and photos is available online at www.southwindadventures.com.