M/V Theory

Cruise the Galapagos under the Relais & Châteaux stamp of quality

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Review

The Theory and her identical sister ship (The Origin) are the only luxury yachts operating in the Galapagos with the famed Relais & Châteaux affiliation. Therefore passengers are assured a high standard of comfort and service, with exceptional cuisine to boot. All the social areas, as well as the cabins, are beautifully adorned. We were particularly impressed with the ‘open-bar’ policy – a real rarity among even the top-end competition. Children are also very well catered for, not just with games and the ‘open Bridge’ policy, but also with the cooker classes (kids get to make snacks, such as their own pizza, ice-cream and cup-cakes). Very much a family-friendly cruise.

Deck layout

The Theory has 4 decks. The Lower (Finch) Deck is home to the gym, that is open 24/7 and features a treadmill, elliptical, mats and free weights. The Main (Beagle) Deck contains all 10 cabins (or ‘Staterooms’ as they are ostentatiously called), plus the concierge desk and small library.

The Upper (Darwin) deck is where the main social areas are located – the lounge, bar and dining quarter; along with the Bridge. Finally, the Sundeck is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the gorgeous surroundings. The Skydeck features a 6-person Jacuzzi, sun-loungers, hammocks, outdoor bar & BBQ, a shower and a restroom. Lunch is often served on the Skydeck.

Itineraries

The Theory operates two itineraries. Both are 7-nights in duration, departing on Sundays, and start/finish on San Cristobal. Itinerary A encompasses San Cristobal, Espanola, Floreana, Santa Cruz and Santiago. Itinerary B takes in San Cristobal, Genovesa, Santa Cruz, Santiago, Fernandina and Isabela.

Cabins

The Theory has 10 ‘Staterooms’ offering King or Twin bed formation; with two cabins being interconnected if required. Two further cabins can be modified as triple rooms (with a third ‘bunk’ bed that that folds out of the wall). Each cabin is 145 ft.² (13.4 m²) and features panoramic windows, TV with preloaded movies, a universal docking, station espresso machine and a safe-deposit box. All cabins are en-suite, with ocean-views whilst you shower (frosted glass, of course)! A couple of nice touches are the inclusion of a pair of binoculars for use whilst on-board; plus a ‘panic-button’ in case of emergencies.

Features & inclusions

All land and water activities, led by two on-board experienced naturalists, are included. This ratio of 10 passengers to one naturalist is the lowest in the Galapagos. Snorkelling equipment, wetsuits and fins are also provided. The Theory has paddleboards, kayaks and a glass-bottomed boat available for use (as well as Zodiacs for wet landings). Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, with dinner served as a 4-course menu. The food is exceptional and we like the fact that passengers can dine on tables from 2 – 8 persons. Two features that stand-out for a boutique, luxury yacht – the presence of a gym and the open-bar policy. Good to know you can jog off those cocktails!

Facilities

Theory facilities:

LENGTH & BEAM 43m/142ft x 8m/27ft
CAPACITY 20 passengers
CREW 11 plus two qualified naturalists
HOT-TUB Yes
MEAL PLAN All included, plus open-bar policy.
AIRCON Yes
INTERNET Yes, surcharges apply
OTHER FACILITIES Sea-kayaks, paddleboards, snorkelling, glass-bottomed boat; gym, gift store