M/V Santa Cruz

This is my favorite of the large, luxury cruise ships working the Galápagos. The entire ship was refitted and updated in 1998. Almost every cabin has an ocean view -- many with large picture windows, and a couple with balconies. The common areas are inviting, and the 90-passenger maximum is just small enough that it's easy to interact with other guests and not feel overwhelmed by the masses. Well-done buffet meals are served for breakfast and lunch, while dinners are more formal, with a limited selection of nightly a la carte items. The guides are all well-trained and very pleasant. The main deck area features a large, open-air bar and a popular, well-heated Jacuzzi. There's even free Internet access from a common computer in the small library, which has a good selection of natural history and fiction.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.