Back

Cachalote Explorer

0 1 2 3 4 5

Cachalote Explorer is a converted fishing boat, renovated in 2018, offering economical cruises in the Galapagos for those who prefer a small vessel.

The Galápagos expedition cruiser Cachalote Explorer was originally constructed in Canada in 1988 as a fishing boat, and externally its tubby frame still recalls its original purpose, offering guests a real nautical experience. Inside, the eight cabins, renovated in 2018, are spacious and bright, with sailor-blue décor and porthole windows with en suite bathroom and air-conditioning. There’s a large dining area cum-saloon. It’s a great budget choice for you if you are looking for an friendly, informal and intimate experience in the archipelago, and the opportunity to get to know your like-minded fellow guests.

What our clients say

Galapagos was incredible. We loved it. The guides were all excellent and we especially enjoyed having guides with a naturalist qualification.
LE, Poole Jul 2019
The most memorable experiences were walking in woodland with wild giant tortoise grazing in clearings, watching wild land iguanas amble through long grasses, peering at eye level into the nests…
JW, Newcastle Jun 2011
One of us had not snorkelled for a very long time and was hesitant in deep water. Martin the Naturalist on MV Eclipse helped her overcome her fears and enabled…
AL May 2015
The Galápagos was so amazing - we were not at all disappointed even though we had looked forward to it so much. Every part of our cruise was special, and…
RJ, Kenilworth Apr 2014
Galapagos Islands wildlife, guide and boat. To be so close to birds and animals is a privilege and to see such pristine beaches and scenery is lovely.
SJ, Winchelsea Feb 2017
We loved snorkelling with marine iguanas, turtles, and the lovely playful sealions.
FM, Manchester May 2026

0 1 2 3 4 5

Our Expert's Opinion

Sophie Barber - Travel Expert

Sophie lived in Chile before joining us and has travelled extensively across Latin America, from Mexico to the furthest tip of Patagonia and beyond to Antarctica.

Get in touch Meet our experts

Papagaio

Your edit for Latin American inspiration

Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.

View Extraordinary Inspiration

View Extraordinary Inspiration
Tales from the Road

Guest Story: The High Life in Bolivia
Learn more
View Extraordinary Inspiration
Wildlife and Nature

Latin America’s top-flight birds
Learn more
View Extraordinary Inspiration
Tales from the Road

Just Back From Chile with Millie
Learn more

Tales from the Road

Just back from… Ecuador with Charlotte

Learn more

Destination Guides

Peru Minus the Backpack

Learn more

Meet our team

Real Latin american experts

Get in touch Meet our experts

Kathryn Rhodes - Travel Expert

Kathryn backpacked across Argentina, Chile, Bolivia and Peru before joining us. She has a degree in Philosophy and French and is a keen netball player.
Finn Clennett - Travel Expert
Maggie Wilson - Travel Expert

Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Paul Winrow-Giffin - Travel Expert

After graduating in Computer Science, Paul spent seven months travelling from Colombia to Argentina and came home hooked on Latin America.
Hannah Waterhouse - Travel Expert

Hannah had an early introduction to Latin America when her family moved to Ecuador and she returned to study in Buenos Aires for a year before backpacking across the continent.
Sally Dodge - Travel Expert

A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.