By: Torben Lonne
As a first-class yacht, the Tip Top IV has been constructed and designed with the highest level of safety in mind. Snorkeling equipment, as well as two kayaks, are always available to anyone who is interested in exploring. There is a multilingual guide assisting guests with any type of instructions or general cruise rules and programs, as well as a naturalist guide. Social areas, including the bar, dining room, lounge, and a sun deck offer great areas for relaxation. In addition, a sun deck with comfortable loungers is also available. With 10 cabins for 16 passengers in total, the Tip Top IV can be just the right vessel to create the trip of a lifetime.
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
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Several people noted that the Tip Top IV was in pristine condition. -
Some of the divers recall having enjoyed the excursion to the many islands while enjoying the sand bars.
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Many people loved the cooking of the chef and they vigorously recommend it be tried.
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A lot of people liked the snacks that was on offer after the many activities.
Things we don't like:
Some divers said they would of liked a bit more time diving each time as opposed to diving everyday.- A couple of people noted that the wet suits did nothing to control the coldness of the water.
Some divers said they would of liked a bit more time diving each time as opposed to diving everyday.
Diving on the Tip Top IV in Galapagos
The Tip Top IV is a first-class 16-guest yacht that has been launched in 2006. Cruising the Galapagos Islands, this masterpiece is part of a three-yacht fleet – Tip Top, that comes from an Ecuadorian family company founded in 1982. With the highest level of safety in mind. Tip Top IV is in constant communication with the Tip Top Galapagos office via radio. Although the Galapagos Islands are a remote location, the Tip Top fleet has the best technology available for communication purposes. It is also highly committed to management assurance and environmental protection. The Tip Top IV crew makes sure it complies with laws, regulations and other agreements regarding quality, environmental protection, best practices, safety at sea, occupational health and security. In addition, it bears a certificate under international standards as a Smart Voyager by Rainforest Alliance.
Tip Top IV has two kayaks on board. Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels, and fins) is available to use for the duration of the cruise. For each passenger, there is a bag to store and transport the equipment. For those interested, wetsuits are available, but only as a rent option. The crew of 8 include the Captain, engineer, chef, barman, a waitress, two sailors and a multilingual guided who once aboard, briefs guests on special procedures, vessel safety, Galapagos National Park rules and the cruise in general.
The multilingual (Spanish and English or Spanish, English, and German) naturalist guides are certified by the Galapagos National Park and completely trained for these itineraries. The guests are transported from the main boat using two panga boats for exploration, always accompanied by a naturalist, so guests can always be immersed in this enchanted land and learn as they travel around.
Tip Top IV Features and Interior
There are several social areas available throughout the boat. The bar, dining room, lounge, and a sun deck are constantly available to host someone and offer great comfort. The lovely outdoor lounge is located on the main deck and keeps a variety of board games, videos, books, and music. There is even a desktop PC for your use. On the top deck, a spacious sun deck with comfortable loungers and a shaded area is laid out for everyone to enjoy it.
The dining room which is also on the main deck is the place where a combination of Ecuadorian and International cuisine is freshly prepared and served. Of course, available 24 hours a day, there is purified water, coffee and herbal tea free of charge. Sodas and liquors, however, are available but come for a charge.
10 cabins are there to accommodate 16 passengers aboard. Each cabin features an air-conditioning unit, a private bathroom with toilet and shower, washbasin, safety box, locker, drawers, and vanity with a hairdryer. All cabins have the choice of twin or double beds. Phones are available in the room, but only to use to call other cabins using the internal system.
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