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The Galapagos Island TripsAfter a careful research and of course by experience, I decided to choose Metropolitan Touring (MT) as one of the best travel Agencies promoting Galapagos trips and Tours by now. Why?… Because of their 50 years of experience and the extreme high quality service they offer, it is as simple as that. Do you know what is a Glass-Bottom Boat in the Galapagos Islands?This has allowed them to remain as pioneers in these kind of adventure voyages. Some years ago MT realized that the marine world is a highlight for Galapagos' visitors, but only snorkelers where appreciating such experiences. Then, in 1998 and in 2000 MT added aboard the M/V Santa Cruz and Yacht Isabela II, a new way of discovering the underwater world but for everyone: the Glass-Bottom Boat (a.k.a. GBB). The reasons for appreciating the Galapagos marine world: Marine Reserve, Whale & Shark Sanctuary, and Natural Heritage for Mankind. Galapagos is the Earth's second-largest Marine Reserve. The boat they use in their Galapagos island trips is a former Boston Whaler and it was reconverted for such marine use, by designing two separate open chambers (glass bottom). It is operated by one boat driver (panguero), and led by a Naturalist. The goal is to take the boat early than the rest of the more speedy boats to the aquatic site, check for visibility conditions, current, etc, and assess where the best area is found. In MT Galapagos island trips after signing up at the reception, guests have 2-3 shifts to choose from, based on the overall program and their own choices. Each shift lasts 30 minutes approximately, and a Naturalist will interpret all that is seen underwater. For everyone's convenience the boat has a sun roof, and takes a maximum of 10 participants. The Chief Naturalists of the Yacht Isabela IIThey are willing to revolutionize Tours to Galapagos with their initiatives and projects, and these will be shared with all of you along the year. Let's get to know these gentlemen a little better.
Alejandro Villa and Celso Montalvo are Naturalists who, besides leading groups ashore, have the high responsibility of commanding the Expedition. They are the perfect link between guests, the islands, and the operation. Their permanent contact with the local authorities, onboard Officers, and our offices in the mainland, allow them to generate out-of-the-ordinary operative standards which for our guests translate into rewarding experiences. Alejandro is a Galapagueño, while Celso is a permanent Galapagos resident since 1998. They have both followed the strict training at the National Park Service, and their constant interest in knowing more about the natural world is evident in their daily explanations. Certainly, they are a strong feature in the positive comments the Expedition regularly obtains. They are very keen in assessing the balance between environmental interpretation and conservation. Their passion for the islands is evident, their commitment to the islands' future is remarkable, and we are glad to have them as heads of the Galapagos trips Expedition Department of the Yacht Isabela II. More About Galapagos:Recommended Galapagos Island ToursFlight to Galapagos Best Galapagos Hotel Galapagos Island Pictures Galapagos Vacation Reviews Request Free Galapagos Travel Brochures Recommended Galapagos Reading:Wildlife of the Galapagos is the most superbly illustrated and comprehensive identification guide ever to the natural splendor of these incomparable islands. (A well-written, informative text). Moon Handbooks: Ecuador 2 Ed: Including the Galapagos Islands It also includes information on where to find the best food and lodging around the islands and Ecuador. (Highly recommended!). For questions about Galapagos island trips and bookings, please fill the quick form in my Contact Page
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