By: Torben Lonne
Experience the best of the Galapagos Islands with the high-class yacht Samba! The luxury boat started its first voyage in 1966, and was recently revamped to provide all of the modern facilities and amenities to its guests, including all of the new interiors and furniture, entertainment systems, as well as engines and navigation systems. It houses 7 spacious cabins with side by side beds, just perfect for a small group or family. The welcoming and skilled crew on-board will assist the guests on their itineraries.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Several divers reported that the dive excursion in the caves was their highlight of the trip. -
Many divers said the crew were friendly and quick to react on any request.
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Some people stated that they enjoyed the hike along the beaches and it contributed to forming bonds with fellow tourist on the Samba Cruise Ship.
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The evening was full of games that was presented by the crew for enjoyment.
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Some people stated the boat was cozy and intimate without an excess of people cramping the experience.
Things we don't like:
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A couple of people noted that some of the diving equipment wasn't the right size and as a result some of the team could not join in the activities. -
Some divers said the dive boat looked a bit old as oppose to the Samba Cruise Ship.
Diving on the Samba in Galapagos
The high-class cruise vessel was built in 1966 and served as a luxury yacht. Recently, it was upgraded as a modern vessel equipped with a top-notch engine and a navigation system. The boat has skilled crew members that would assist the guests throughout the voyage.
All cabins are equipped with air-conditioning, comfortable beds, en-suite bathroom facilities, ample storage spaces, safe box for valuables, and emergency facilities. Samba also features an indoor lounge that is fully air-conditioned and is equipped with comfortable sofas and modern entertainment systems, an elegant dining area, luxurious sun lounges, and a deck for water activities.
The indoor lounge is located on the main deck and is equipped with a high-class temperature control system, large comfortable sofas, as well as tables and chairs. A set of the modern entertainment system is also available, which includes a flat-screen television, DVD player, stereo, first-rate speakers, a computer, and a mini-library. This will surely be a favorite hangout place in between dives or for a late-night chat.
Samba also features spacious sun decks that are located on the main deck and on the upper deck. Both sun lounges have shaded areas, and are both equipped with luxurious sun loungers, tables and other amenities. It serves as a view deck for guests to enjoy the majestic sight of the Galapagos waters, as well as the place to be for a perfect tan, or perhaps to simply take a breath and relax.
Everyone will surely have a wonderful water adventure as guests can uze the snorkeling gear and wet suits for a fee. The classic yacht also follows all the safety regulations. Samba is equipped with internationally accredited safety facilities, which include an alarm system, a fire detection and fire fighting system, fire extinguishers in each cabin and in the saloon, life rafts, life vests, oxygen and first aid materials.
Cabins
The 7 spacious cabins could perfectly fit a maximum of 14 guests. There are cabins located on the main deck, while some could be found on the upper deck. There are cabins equipped with bunk beds, while there are some with 2 single beds installed. Nevertheless, all beds are guaranteed to be comfortable. Plus, each cabin is equipped with its own air-conditioning unit, en-suite bathroom facilities, a dresser, safe storage box, and has ample space for luggage. All cabins have warm wooden interiors so it offers a pleasant experience.
Dining
The dining area is located on the main deck and is equipped with a large dining table, surrounded by comfortable sofas so that everyone would have their meals together at one dining table. The wooden interior is complemented by the bright paints and elegant lighting accessories. Also, a flat-screen television, speakers, and a DVD player is also available.
Itinerary
Samba offers two 7-day itineraries that are different but equally interesting. Guests may choose to navigate the north and west of Galapagos to visit the sites of Darwin Bay, El Barranco, Marchena Island’s Black Beach, Urbina Bay, Elizabeth Bay, and Floreana Island. The second one traverses to the central and eastern islands, which includes the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, the La Baronesa Lookout on Floreana Island, Gardner Rock, Kicker Rock, Barrington Bay, Sullivan Bay, and islands such as Bartholemy and Rabida.
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