Hurtigruten Expeditions has announced that it will be operating cruises in the Galapagos, having entered an agreement with Metropolitan Touring to take guests to the region starting in January 2022.
Hurtigruten Group CEO Daniel Skjeldam said, “We are extremely excited to expand our South America offering to one of the most spectacular destinations on the planet”, adding, “We have seen a clear trend of travelers seeking out truly unique and meaningful travel experiences, with a sharp increase in demand for the type of small ships / big experiences we offer”, and, “The pandemic has dramatically pushed this development forward”, adding, “There is huge pent-up demand for traveling right now, and we are responding with this breathtaking new destination”.
Hurtigruten says that its guests will board the upgraded 90-guest MS Santa Cruz II, which will see a significant refit this year including all suites and cabins, explorer lounge, dining room, bar, and other public areas, with a Hurtigruten Expeditions hallmark, a Science Area, will also be added, where guests and the onboard expedition team will create an even deeper understanding of the wonders they explore.
Metropolitan Touring CEO Paulina Burbano de Lara said, “This partnership brings together two companies that combine the best of two worlds, Hurtigruten Expeditions as a global player with an excellent reputation in expedition cruises, and our long history and deep knowledge of the Galapagos Islands”, adding, “We are really excited to welcome the first Hurtigruten Expeditions’ guests on board”.
Hurtigruten Expeditions CEO Asta Lassesen said, “This is a significant milestone in our 125-year history of exploring”, and “The Galapagos is one of the world’s ultimate expedition cruise destinations”, adding, “It is a perfect match between two companies with a proud history, strong heritage, and passion for the well-being of our oceans and our planet”.
Starting on January 5, 2022, Hurtigruten Expeditions will offer nine-day expeditions on the Santa Cruz II, with two nights in Quito and six nights onboard.
An edited report by John Alwyn-Jones, Cruise Editor.
.jpg){kind=tracking}