Hola Washington!

We are BACK from the Galapagos and it was as wonderful of an experience as I could have imagined.

Alisson Carlton
USA, Nov 2010
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear All

Just got back from a cruise on the Athala - great boat, great people, great food...wish I was back there now! Seriously though, it's more expensive than a lot of options, but it's a superb boat with top class service. Be prepared for an active holiday (lots of snorkeling) if you want to make best use of the cruise. If you are up for it, the experience is magical. The naturalist guide on the boat (George) is awesome, and Javier, who is effectively the 'hotel' manager (cruise director) is excellent. I would really recommend this boat - and if it is anything to go on, the Nina is probably good too.

Oct 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Isabel,

My friend and I just returned from eight magical days on the Athala II. The captain and crew were all friendly and fun. The ship was kept spotless and every effort was made to ensure the most enjoyment of the passengers. Our park guide was Harry Jimenez. His deep love and respect for the islands was contagious. He imparted his knowledge with passion and a wonderful sense of humor. I had hoped to be able to see the giant tortoises in their natural environment. This was not on our itinerary but Harry and the captain went out of their way to make this happen. Harry even threw in and extra treat by finding a Vermillion Flycatcher for me. This trip will remain in our hearts forever.

Sue Marder and Elaine Lipinsky
U.S.A. Sep 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Isabel

We had a wonderful trip to the Galapagos! Thanks so much.

The Hilton Colon is fine hotel, and they serve a very good breakfast on the executive floor. The catamaran Athala is first class all the way: The vessel, accommodations, crew, food and overall service. Our naturalist-guide, Jorge Garcia, was outstanding in all ways: personality, knowledge, interest in everyone's well being & excellent communication skills; we could not have had a better one.  The trip was everything we hoped it would be. 

The Ritcheys
U.S.A. Jun/July 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Isabel and Lorena,

I arrived back from my educational trip to Galapgos and Peru last week. It was a wonderful experience and especially my time on Galapagos was a very memorable one!

There was a very nice group on board (US, Australia, Canada and Denmark) and also the staff made me feel very much at home. The cabins are great and the best I have seen (after checking some other boats during my 1 free day at Puerto Ayora). They are so spacious! The staff paid so much attention to every details (my compliments to the person who folds the towels every day in a different shape ;-) The bathrooms are nice and modern too.

Food was excellent and the chef and his assistants made every meal special and very tasty. Especially I liked the day we had a barbecue (wat great seafood!) on the bar-deck outside.

Our tour-leader was Ruli and he was a very knowledgable about a lot of things. He really blended very well with the group and could talk about a lot of things (‘outside’ the Galapagos as well). The tours were very nice and I really wished that I could have seen more islands. So a good reason to come back some other time.

Thanks again!

Best regarsd,

Judith Nouwens
Netherlands, Jun 2010
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Haugan Cruises

We were on the eight day Athala trip in April. It was fantastic. My wife is putting together a "book" with pictures and text, to show other people.

Would it be possible to get a full page Itinerary of the trip.

Many thanks,

Jeff Carey, a happy customer
U.S.A. April 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Isabel:

We want to thank you for a once in a lifetime trip. The Nina and her crew were absolutely the best and I would highly recommend them to anyone going to the Galapagos. Our naturalist III guide, Juan Carlos, was the best guide we have ever had. He knew his wildlife, the history of the islands and it was great getting to know him.

Thanks again for a wonderful trip,

Gary & Amy Ressing
U.S.A. March/April 2010
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Mrs. Cordova:

I am writing as a follow up to a recent cruise my wife and I arranged through Columbus Travel. We went to Galapagos Island on an 8 day, 7 night cruise on the Athala. The cruise started on February 27 and ran until March. 6.

My purpose in writing is to express how much we thought of the Athala's crew the naturalist on our trip. In short, the crew headed by Captain Pedro Rocafuerte was terrific. They were very professional and very helpful. My wife and i could not be more pleased with their performance.

The naturalist Harry Jimenez was fabulous. He not only had exceptionally broad knowledge about the plants and wildlife, but he had a terrific sense of humor. He was delightful and we learned a great deal listening to him in the evening briefings and walking with him on the islands. We both felt that Harry must be one of the top naturalists in Galapagos.

Both Harry and the crew made our trip one that we will remember the rest of our lives. Also, your agent Diego Andrade was particularly helpful in making the reservation for our trip. If you want to use my comments in any advertising please feel free to do so.

Thomas McAvoy
U.S.A. Febrary/March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hola Isabel,

How are you doing? Hope all is well. Today I had a long conversation with clients Delehey/McDougald. All went well on Athala for them. They loved Jorge Garcia the guide, he was perfect of course-I know him from years ago on another boat. A real highlight for them was that the crew went snorkeling with them sometimes. They really liked this. The ice machine was broken onboard but it was not a big deal for them. This was a pretty easygoing group I think. They also really liked that the crew wanted to learn more English and that the crew was interacting with them alot. They went snorkeling 2x per day and this was also great for them.

Kind Regards,

Jen
U.S.A. March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Isabel,

I just wanted to tell you that clients Miller x 2 were very happy with their time on Nina. The cruise director was great, the guide was great, the birthday celebration was PERFECT, cabin was great and they loved the boat.

Thanks for all of your help with these clients. You are great to work with.

Sincerely,

Jen
U.S.A., Decermber 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hi Isabel,

Hope your day is a good one! How are you doing? Great news that there are no more power shortages in Quito at the moment!

I have been wanting to email you about a really nice comment that I received from clients Miller on Nina.    They were SO happy about the celebration for Jeff Miller's birthday onboard. The cabin had chocolates all over the bed and the towels were made in the shape of a birthday cake and the room was decorated and I can't remember if he mentioned there was a cake but I think that they also made him a cake at the dinner. That was SO nice of the crew. Jeff felt really special :). Please can you tell them how happy clients were? Thank you so much. He told me it was his best birthday in all of his life. WOW!!!

THANKS very much for your help Isabel. Many hugs and kind regards,

Jen
U.S.A., Decermber 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Olga, we just returned from our 2+ weeks in Galapagos/Peru and wanted to send you a thank you for a trip well planned and organized. We really enjoyed both destinations, but I think the Galapagos was my favorite. Both of the guides (George in Galapagos and Mariella in Peru) were fabulous.

Thanks again, and I would certainly recommend Columbus Travel to anyone interested in a journey south of the border.

Sincerely,
Jeff and Deborah Martin
U.S. September 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Elena,

Thank you so much for all the arrangements you made on our behalf.  The trip was great, and all the connections went smoothly.  The drivers were on time, helpful and courteous, and the staff on the boat was great.  Thanks again.

Regards,
Michael

USA, August, 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hi Paola

Now that we - unfortunately - have left Ecuador behind us, I wanted to thank you again for the complete service provided by you and your company! I want to let you know personally. I have already forwarded your email address to a friend of mine who will visit Ecuador at the beginning of September.

And by the way: we very much enjoyed the hotel and diner invitation - the restaurant was absolutely beautiful and food and service excellent!

Thank you very much again
best regards,
Michael
Germany, July 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hi Marie Elena,

I just wanted to share with you a post that we put on tripadvisor regarding our recent tour on the Nina. We had the best time on the tour and I wanted to thank you for making the trip possible. Below is a response to another traveler's inquiry about the Nina. You can find it on tripadvisor.com. Thank you again for a wonderful trip.

"My husband and I just got back from a an 8 day cruise on the Nina and it was amazing. We are in our early 30s and about half of the people on the tour were as well. The other half were couples in their mid 50s-60s. I can't say enough great things about the tour. The service was great, the cabin was luxury and the crew was beyond helpful. We did ALOT of snorkeling (like twice a day). Some of it was in deep water and some beach snorkeling but totally safe as zodiacs follow you along the whole way. The wildlife was accessible through the land walks we did everyday. It was a tour for active people but you also had plenty of time to rest and enjoy the beautiful boat. The food on board was delicious with the chef cooking up gourmet 3 course meals for every meal. Our guide Gabriel was knowledgable and also very entertaining. I highly recommend this tour. The days start early, so there wasn't much partying on the boat but I guess it depends on who is on the tour the week you are going. It was a once in a lifetime trip!".

Jen O'Brien
USA
Traveled on the NINA

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Hello Veronica,

we were going to send you an email. The cruise on Nina was FANTASTIC!! Everything was excellent. Harry, the guide, and Gabi the hostess were terrific.

The food was sensational, in fact there was nothing bad about it.

Thank you so much, everything was so professional and we would definitely recommend you to any of our friends.

regards,
Roz & Roger
Australia, July 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hi Christian,

Thank you for your follow up email.

We too are sorry we didn't get to see you after our cruise. And like you, we were both ill with a cold on our return from the cruise. It didn't stop us from visiting any of the islands and seeing the wildlife, but it did stop us from snorkling a few times.

We had a great time with Santiago during the tour to Otavalo and the Quito cultural center tour.

Please keep Melanie's and my email to contact us if you are visiting the US. Melanie was serious about you visiting her in Palm Springs during the Grand Champions tennis tournament. You and your wife would have a wonderful visit with her.

Thank you again my friend for all you did for us to make our visit to Ecuador and the Galapagos so memorable. We all had a wonderful time.

Our best,

Bill, Melanie, John and Mary
USA, June/July 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Sr. Washington del Pino

Con un fuerte abrazo y agradecimiento a todo el personal que han hecho posible mi viaje a Galápagos en compañía de mi padre así haciendo su sueño realidad.

Le comento que ya lo hicimos en la fecha del 19 al 26 de Mayo en el yate "catamarán" NINA.

Lo pasamos de maravilla, todo el personal era muy amable, la atención personalizada. Mi padre se sintió mimado en todo el grupo, les felicito de manera personal

Con el barco ni que decir estábamos tan cómodos, felices y defino en esta palabra que ese viaje fue ¡inolvidable!

Mil gracias, y estaremos en contacto.

Magaly Moscoso
Ecuador, Mayo 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hello Ivonne!

First of all, I want to tell you what a fabulous trip we had to Ecuador.  Your country and people are wonderful and Pat and I enjoyed ourselves greatly.

Evan's guiding was also great.  He really helped us to understand the country and culture and was a great help.

Thank you again for all your help!

laura
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hi Cristina,

About the nina:

It was a great ship. Nice staff. Large clean cabins. Good beds We had a knowlegdable guide and every day we went hiking or snorkling. So well arranged. For dinner we had soup, maincourse in buffet and dessert. So we got big!

We enjoyed every minute on the island ...in paradise.

Warm greetings

Henk and Claudia
Netherlands, June 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Ivonne,

We had a wonderful time. Everyone was friendly. Food and Boat were great. Islands beautiful.

Scott White
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Olga,

I want to thank you for the most wonderful week - as the fabulous Guide Harry would say - "You are in Paradise---- The Galapagos Islands." The "Nina" was a beautiful boat, the crew were delightful pleasant and efficient. I might just have to steal your chef from you - the food was delicious fresh and far too tempting.

I had read a lot about the Islands but I was amazed delighted and surprised by the diversity, and also the difference from Island to Island. Harry was so knowledgeable about the marine and land animals, the birds and the volcanoes we were very lucky to have him. My son had the best time also and thank you for giving him five young girls to entertain!!! It was a very happy week and the rest of the passengers delightful I had a great time.

The hotel in Quito was delightful and tres chic, and the wonderful meal at Theatrum was an unexpected surprise Thank you for everything I will tell everybody

With kind regards

Susie and Dan Toomey
Australia, May 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hola Antonieta,

I wanted to send you a note earlier, but hustle and bustle of travelling and getting back into work was taking the time. I do apologise for that.

Main thing is we had a wonderful time going round Quito and of cause Galapagos. We want to turn round and go back. The boat 'Nina' was vary comfortable and all crew and guide were excellent. Also the group of travellers was nice and friendly and that made for good time. We were taken around some beautiful place with magic scenery and loveable animals. There were four snorkelling sessions, which gave us chance to admire underwater life - full of colourful fish, playful sea lions, even sharks and feeding iguanas. All will be lasting memory.

I want to thank you very much for arranging it for us, having patience with payments and all the questioning from me. You made it very friendly and comfortable for us. It also made us to yearn to return to Ecuador and explore more of its countryside.

Look after yourself and many regards.

Jaro and Majka Kolarik
UK, May 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Hello,

This letter is in response to the trip scheduled with your company on April 19, 2009. Please accept my sincere thanks for making the trip all that I expected and more! Our trip started with our departing flight being canceled which threw the whole schedule off immediately. Your company took charge of the situation and even though we arrived 12 hours later, we didn't miss a thing. You scheduled our tour of Quito at a convenient time regardless of our late arrival, we enjoyed a lovely late lunch and a wonderful dinner when we returned to Quito.

Your group made sure that we got what we paid for. The tour guide in Quito was excellent and tried very hard to get all the sightseeing in even though we got a late start. The person meeting us at the airport was punctual and efficient, and the Nina and all her staff were top of the line. Please pass this email along to everyone involved with my heartfelt thanks for making this such a wonderful trip.

Regards,

Susan Fox
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Elena:

Don't know if Helen was in touch with you, but I wanted you to know that we all loved out trip to Galapagos. Everything was great. The Nina and its crew, the guide and the food was superb. (I've tried cooking Ecudorian food since returning home, but not having much success.)

Also, I wanted you to know that we we were very happy with the service that your agency gave us. The arrangements you made for us at the the Finch Bay hotel, transport from the Nina and then later to the plane, were excellent. We wouldn't have changed anything. Also, of course, thanks for all the prompt communication prior to our trip and also when I was alone in Quito, during Helen's hectic time in Houston.

Elizabeth Phillips
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Fernanda,

"The boat tour itself was excellent. The Nina is an excellent ship and the accommodations were fully satisfactory. The naturalist Javier was excellent for the group we had--a rather active group. So we had a lovely 7 days on the boat."

Seymour Spilerman
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Maria,

I just got back to London yesterday. It was the most memorable experience in my life during the cruise on Nina. Everything was superb!! Also it was lovely to see you at your office the other day.

Just wanted to thank you again to arrange my fantastic time in Ecuador. Probably I should start thinking about next holiday to Amazon forest next then!

Hope you are well,

Regards,

Masashi
Japan, May 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Christian,

We would like to say a big Thank you for a superbly organized trip to the Gallapagos. From the moment that we touched down in Quito until the end of our Galapagos trip, everything was excellent, The hotels were extremely comfortable and the guides excellent.

We would like to make a special commendation to the Athala which we found wonderful. Nothing was too much trouble for the crew and our guide (Yvonne) was fantastic with a wide knowledge of the islands and an amazing enthusiasm for the environment there. We cannot recommend Athala enough and feel we were extremely fortunate to have experienced a week on such a beautiful boat. We would be very happy to be a reference for any future holiday makers and thank you again for your excellent professional organization.

Anthony & Lorna Hamilton
UK, April 2009
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi, Maria Elena.

I´m sorry we never got a chance to meet. I just wanted to say thank you for an absolutely wonderful trip! The Nina was amazing and the crew absolutely superb. And thank you so much for arranging the trip to the museum yesterday. That was wonderful too. The kids had a great time and it was really very interesting!

Kind regards,

Joey
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the NINA

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Dear Ivonne,

Thank you very much for arranging our Ecuadorian trip. We had a wonderful time. Swissotel was good and we adored Patio Andaluz. Everyone at Columbus Travel had been very helpful. Ivan was a great guide and Javier was a solid professional.

Warmest regards,

Henry Chan & Lina Lee
USA, February 2009
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Elena,

Hope all is well. My wife, Emily and I wanted to share our appreciation and thank you and the team at Columbus Travel. We had such an amazing and unforgettable time. We truly were unexpected at the level of service and value we received.

The Athala II is a wonderful yacht. Clean, spacious and very friendly staff. Not to mention, the food was delicious and plentiful. Our Naturalist, Enrique was fun, energetic and very knowledgable. He was very passionate about his job and the well being of the islands. We saw so many animals and marine life. We will always remember.

Thank you for a wonderful vacation and I will definately recommend Columbus Travel to any of my friends and family. Please share this email with Xavier Proano and the rest of the team that served us.

Sincere Regards,

Greg & Emily Wong
Canada, February 2009
Traveled on the ATHALA

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We travelled independently so all research was done on the Internet. My husband had specific criteria regarding the type of boat as he now suffers from claustrophobia and therefore a cabin below deck or with just a port hole was out of the question. I found the Athala and what a find! A beautiful catarmaran with only 16 guests.

Capitano and crew were superb in every way, helpful, nothing too much bother, and looked after us impeccably. Food was excellent throughout, chef cooking breakfast every day, always greeted from an excursion with freshly made drinks, often local fruit juice never before heard of, and home baked nibbles and always a choice at dinner. Champagne for crossing the equator on the bridge with the Captain.

We had a lovely cabin, huge bed, private balcony, small but great as you could have the door open all night if you wish and the bathroom was stocked with eco friendly toiletries.

Every day we had 2 excursions ashore, each island offering different wildlife and fauna. The guide was knowledgable and fun too as were the people we shared the boat with. As well as swimming with the sea lions we had them sleeping on the back steps and one night one brave lady sea lion came onto the boat in the middle of the night. Naughty girl but I was able to coax her off the boat before doing too much damage.

I really can't recommend this experience enough, we had a fantastic time but beware you definatly need wetsuits in December! I believe there is now a new sister catarmaran called Nina so perhaps after our lottery win (pending!) we will try her.

England, December 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA
Comment from Trip Advisor

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Thank you, Ivonne. Happy New Year to you! We had a wonderful trip on the Athala, and a great tour of Quito. Our tour guide in Quito was really great. The Athala was fabulous and everyone was very nice. It was a trip to remember.

Mary Rose
USA, March 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Ivonne,

Although the week in the Galapagos was wonderful, my day in Quito was one of the very best days in my life. It was just so very good - the Gold Museum and the Amazon Equator village were both so exceptional.

I wish you a happy and joyous 2009.

Kindest regards

Kevin Collins
Australia, July 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Christian,

We, too, were pleased to meet you. We were very pleased with our trip. The boat and crew were very good and our guide, Ivonne, was wonderful -- knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The only criticisms we have (and these are minor) are that the visit to San Cristobal Island was too long and that instead of visiting Post Office Bay, we would have preferred seeing more natural sights. We would happily recommend Haugan Tours to others.

Sincerely,

Joanne Levine
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Christian

Thanks for checking in. Everything was great and so easy. Too easy - it was the least amount of thinking I ever had to do on vacation. Thank you so much for helping us arrange the trip. It was really fun.

Candice
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Christian

Sorry I didn't get back to you we didn't get home until last week and I have been very busy.I will send you comprehensive feedback as I feel it is important. I would, however, like to thank you personally for organising such a fantastic holiday for us!!! Everything about it went perfectly and the Athala was fantastic!!! The whole organisation, that you implemented, was superb.

Thank you so so much.

As I say I will send you more comprehensive feedback soon, suffice to say we are very happy!!

Best wishes

John Francis
England, July 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Christian,

We are now back home in the U.K. The dogs are very pleased to see us back.

Our holiday exceeded all our expectations! Everything was organised perfect.The hotel was great, the meal you booked for us in Quito was outstanding, the Jungle trip to Napo Lodge was wonderful and the Galapagos cruise on Athala could not be faulted. I have already recommended you and your company to friends.

Thanks very much for all your help.

Best regards

Robert

Robert Reynolds
UK, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hi Elena,

We had the most fabulous time!! Everything was just great and I am glad that we decided to split the time in Quito between the Parc and the Hotel in the old city, we enjoyed both of them tremendously and they were completely different experiences with distinct cuisine offerings.

The Arasha was perfect as was the entire Athala experience. the only suggestion I might have for guests staying at the Grand hotel in guayquil is that suggestions for alternate restaurants be made as the main dining room has a distinctly moldy odor from the adjacent courtyard swimming pool, but its convenience to the park with the iguanas and the cathedral were great.

When we arrived at the airport in Guayquil,we were met by your agent who had us listed as going to a different hotel with other passengers, however she was able to quickly arrange transportation to our hotel and for transport to the airport later that evening. There was no delay nor inconvenience in anyway. We were all so amazed at how this complicated trip with its many transfers took place without a glitch!! Needless to say we have been recommending you to our friends and plan to take this trip again when our daughter is able to do so!!

Many Thanks!!

Garren Family
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Christian,

Greetings from Paris and I hope you are fine. We had a wonderful time in the Galapagos islands. I was impressed by the beauty of the land. As mentioned to several members during the cruise and your American business partner who came on board on August 8th, I am very thankful for your efficiency from our very first contact, and for having helped us in finding our luggages in Quito.

Kindest regards,

Anthony
France, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Hola, Elena!

I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say many thanks for helping make Our family's trip so much fun. We had a blast!

I just posted our trip report on Tripadvisor.com in the Ecuador forum under the title "Ecuador trip report: Sacha Lodge, Athala, Sheraton Quito", so you can check that out (you both are mentioned prominently).

Hope we can do it again sometime, and stay longer.

Cheers,

Mr. Nash
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Fernanda mil gracias por su lindo correo, realmente mis hijos y yo nos quedamos facinados de haber escogido el Athala para nuestro viaje , el Crew y en especial su Capitan se portaron maravillosamente, estamos muy agradecidos, al punto que mis hijos quieren volver el proximo ano.

Fernanda valga la oportunidad para decirle a usted gracias por todas sus atenciones para con nosotros,y por ayudarnos a escoger el Athala.

Ximena, Daniel y Maria Isabel Linder
Ecuatorianos-Alemanes, Agosto 2008
Viajaron en el ATHALA

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Hi Elena,

We have just finished our Athala trip - it was fantastic. Thank you so much for all your help in making this all possible.

Thanks again.

Eric
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

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Hi Fernanda,

Sorry for the delayed response, not long since we got back to internet connections. Our trip to Ecuador was great, thanks!

The guide that we had in Quito, was great. We had no problems with Juan, he was very knowledgeable, great with the kids & appeared to know his information.

Transportation to & from Quito airport - no problems. The pre-cruise flight, check in etc was very well organised.

The Cruise etc was brilliant, the staff great.

Cheers,

Lewie
Australia, July 2008
Tavelled on board ATHALA

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Fernanda y Yoyi,

Ya estamos algunos devuelta, otros en transición y otros en continuación de sus vacaciones. Sin embargo y sé que hablo por todos, debemos decirles que estamos muy contentos y agradecidos de todas sus atenciones en este maravilloso viaje que acabamos de realizar. Tanto la parte de galápagos como (si erika y jose miguel muerdanse las uñas) la parte de machu picchu fueron espectaculares. La verdad que no dudaremos en recomendarlos a quien sea para tratar de emular nuestra experiencia. Sabemos que puede ser trabajoso, pues claro, nos necesitarán a nosotros.

En cuanto a Yoyi, a ti te esperamos en cabarete y por favor, hazle extensivo este email a Ivonne quien por culpa de ella los demás guías parecían muchachitos de cuna (aunque estuvieron bien), así como si en algún momento se interesa en conocer nuestra patria, que será igualmente bienvenida.

Gracias

Leo Matos
República Dominicana, Julio 2008
Viajaron en el ATHALA

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Hi Yoyi,

I just wanted to send a quick E-mail to tell you How much fun we had on the Athala. This was not only because of the fabulous wildlife, but because of all the hard work you and your crew put in. Your talent is amazing! I can barely keep my house hold running well and you keep the Athala running like a well oiled machine. Our trip was flawless and the Meals were amazing. Not a day go's by with out Mike and I saying we wish we were back with Yoyi.

I wanted to thank you also for mailing my post cards. My niece and nephews got them and were thrilled. I was also wondering if I could have your recipe for the tuna spread that you had one day? My husband has been asking for it constantly.

Thanks again Yoyi, you are wonderful

Katherine Wynd and Michael Halsor
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the ATHALA

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Dear Fernanda,

Thank you for checking in with me. The Galapagos trip was wonderful, and Luis was a knowledgeable and exceedingly pleasant naturalist. The entire staff of the Athalla II was very pleasant and helpful. Yoyi was extraordinary! I suggested to her that it would have been helpful to have the names of our traveling companions distributed to us before departure.

I loved the trip and would recommend it to friends.

Best regards,

Ardene Janssen
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board ATHALA

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Fernanda,

El viaje excelente, el crucero excelente. Disfrutamos como enanos, como decimos por aqui. Nos encantaron las islas, los animales, y el control exquisito de la naturaleza....Igualmente, como digo, el crucero y su personal excelente. Dele recuerdos a Yoyi y a Kike de parte de "la pareja amorosa" (ellos ya saben....) Asi que repetiremos al menos Ecuador Gracias por todo

Un saludo desde Bruselas

Vicente
España, July 2008
Travelled on board ATHALA

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Hi Christian,

WOW !!!!!WOW, WOW, What a trip!!!!!! Everything you all did was GREAT !!!!!! Delta is a Pain, But once we were in your hands everything went wonderfully!

Yoyi and Kike were Great and the boat past all expectations. The Crew and Captain Pedro were out of this world. We had a great party the last night with everyone. They taught me some new dance moves. The Galapagos were excellent and Kike Really made it special with all his vast knowledge. And Christian I can thank you enough. All your hard work with us was great and the Casa Aliso was a wonderful place to stay. The Service there was impecable.

On the plain back home we were recommending the Athala and soon her sister ship to everyone. I was righting down the web site for people. I told them how great it was working with you.

Thanks again to you and to the whole crew of the Athala! With out you and the wonderful ship this wouldn't have been so perfect.

Width much Love and Gratitude,

Katherine Wynd and Michael Halsor
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board ATHALA

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Fernanda,

We cannot thank you enough for all the help and assistance you gave us over this trip. >From my very first email you seemed to understand exactly what we wanted and then did everything you could to see that we got it. The whole organisation of the trip was superb, the drivers were always there when planned and were very helpful. Everyone was so friendly and helpful to us. We were made to feel very special. This feeling was topped when you rang us when we were on the bus in the Galapagos going to the airport. All the people who had been on our Galapagos trip were impressed by that level of service. You made us feel that nothing was too much trouble for you. The trip to the Middle of the Earth was really fun and Santiago was a real treasure, full of stories and information on what we were seeing.

Both the Kapawi lodge and the Seaman II lived up to, and exceded, our expectations and the trips themselves were wonderful; but all this was made so much better for feeling like we did not have to worry about anything. You drivers went out of their way to make sure we knew where we were going and that our luggage etc. was taken care of.

We have recommended you to all our friends since we came back and we would not hesitate to use you again in the future. Thank you.

Emily, UK, June 2008

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Dear Fernanda,

The trip was great, and I can't thank you enough for arranging everything so well. I had a wonderful time. Thank you, thank you!

Warm regards,
Mike, USA, May 2008

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Hi Fernanda,

My week in the Galapagos went very fast and was like to be in a real dream...!

Everything were better than expected......as you know to travel South of the tropic some"glitch" are expected, but at my great surprise it wasn't any "glitch", all went perfect., as "advertise" all went very smoothly.

Your company provide a great, great service, thank you very much.

The Beluga was a nice yate, the crew was perfect and the guide Monica was great, I believe without her the cruise wouldn't have been so memorable.

If I have the chance to go back to Ecuador, or if some friends want to go to the Galapgos I will certainly tell them to contact you.

Thank you again.
Anita de Villegas, Belgium, May 2008

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Fernanda,

We had an excellent time. The guides were nice and all the hotels were excellent. We really enjoyed visiting Ecuador.

Regards,
Steinar, Holand, May 2008

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Fernanda,

We arrived home this morning, had a great time,all the arrangements you made worked perfectly for us and greatly contributed to the enjoyment of our holiday.

Machu Picchu was special and enhanced by the excellent guide provided,Galapagos was fantastic, the Queen of Galapagos I would recommend to anyone,a quality boat,well run with a friendly crew,the cabins are spacious with good views.

Feedback that may be useful would be in relation to Patio Andaluz hotel in Quito,the rooms have no external windows,are somewhat cold and gloomy,not the quality you would expect from a 4 star hotel, staff are good however.

Again many thanks for the excellent job you did organizing the holiday,I would recommend you to anyone looking for a holiday in S America.

Regards,

David, Australia, May 2008

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Fernanda,

Our trip was quite wonderful. Thank you for taking care of the details. We were met at all the airports and hotels, on time. The guides throughout the trip, in Ecuador and Peru, were quite good. (Maria, in Peru was very knowledgable and extremely pleasant, but was a bit difficult to understand her English at times - quite good regardless.)

We will gladly recommend Haugan Cruises to our friends. We especially liked the boat size and the freindly crew. Thank you for helping to make our trip fantastic.

Best regards,

Stephen Shopoff, USA, March 2008

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Hi Christian,

For your information I have just recommended the Athala to some friends in the US!

1The trip was fantastic and we really enjoyed the Athala, the Galapagos and the fantastic crew and our guide Kike.

We would do it again and probably do the 8 day trip next time, as we missed not seeing the Western islands. The company on the boat was also very enjoyable, so we have absolutely nothing other than praise and appreciation for the whole trip.

You made all of this feasible with a minimal effort from our side, and we really appreciate your support and responsiveness.

Best regards,

Henrik Schroder, Sweden, March 2008

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Christian,

Our cruise aboard the Athala was fabulous!!! Our stay in Quito at the Plaza Grande was outstanding! We thank you so much for all you did to help us make it all such a wonderful experience!! We have many pictures to help us remember how much we both enjoyed it.

Pat Sheehan, Alaska USA, March 2008

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I would like to let you know that my family and i had a terrific time in peru. the schedule was hectic but fun. the pick up and delivery was prompt and courteous at each juncture. the guides were excellent and the hotels beautiful. we were very pleased with the itinerary and will be happy to recommend your services to our friends.

Thank you,

Michael Baumrim, USA, March 2008

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• Dear Fernanda,
  The trip was great !! We would recommend Haugan Cruises to everyone. The Athala in the Galapagos was perfect, the day tours in Quito were wonderful - the guides and the crew were all so very knowledgeable and helpful... thank you so much for your help with this trip also. You made the planning with the details of hotels and transfers easy. Your service is excellent, we did not have one experience where we thought the service could have been improved.
  Thanks again,
  Kim and Craig Burns, USA, March 2008
  
  
• Oh my gosh, it was the best!!! We had a great time. Thank you for all you did to set it up.
  Debby, USA, March 2008
  
  
• Hello Fernanda,
  I just wanted to thank you for all of your assistance over the past year to make our trip aboard the Athala last week a very memorable one! The four of us had a remarkable time and were overall very satisfied with the entire experience!
  Quito was a wonderful city with great food and sights along with a day trip to the Otavalo market and a drive through the Andes.
  Best regards,
  Douglas Cowan, USA, March 2008
  
  
• Dear Christian,
  I am so sorry that I did not write sooner. I intended to but have been quite busy and also have been out of town a couple of times since I have gotten home from the Galapagos.
  Thank you for everything and for being patient with me.
  Everything was wonderful!!! Everyone was so nice and helpful. Everyone was where they were supposed to be when they said they would be. We enjoyed the boat so much. It was so clean and the meals were wonderful. We enjoyed the islands and all the wildlife. Everything was just perfect. We could not have asked for anything more.
  Thank you again. I will certainly recommend you and your company.
  Barbara Prokosch, USA, February 2008
  
  
• Christian,
  Mike and I wanted to thank you for the excellent service we received on our trip to Ecuador. We do a lot of travelling and it was nice to have no worries in regards to transports, hotels, etc. Everyone we met from your staff was exceptional. Thank you also for straightening out the confusion at the hotel on our return.
  We own a service business and so often we only hear about the things people are not happy with, so we wanted to make sure to commend you on the wonderful trip we had.
  Julie Kienast, USA, January 2008
  
  
• Hi Fernanda
  Just a quick note. Our stay in Ecuador was brilliant we really loved it. The services you offered were impressive always there when we landed etc. and getting us through the airport controls really quickly. Cuyabeno was tough trip but Luis told us that when we met him. I would not have changed it for the world. Athala was brilliant we had a really good week.
  Anyway we will definitely recommend your agency to anyone travelling to Ecuador you could not have done more for us and we would both like to say a big Thank You to you!
  Must go time in the cafe is running out!
  Judy and Kevin, UK, January 2008
  
  
• Hi Christian
  We are now back home, and i just wanted to thank you so very much, we all had a wonderful time in Ecuador, we loved your wonderful country, every one was so friendly. Thank you for orgarnising it so beautfuly, it was effortless for us , thanks to you.
  The Swissotel, was great, very comfy and efficient and friendly, the Athala was perfect, the crew so nice and delicious food.
  We will spread the word about your and the company and the Athala. Also thank you for recommending and arranging our dinner at the opera House, it was superb. Mark and Lois join us in send a HUGE thank you, and we very much hope to do buisness with you again in the future.
  Yours,
  Pippa & Robin, USA, January 2008
  
  
• Hi Christian! Sorry, I can’t even distinguish a “best”…..everything was absolutely perfect (except the chaos at the arrival at Baltra, but that was unavoidable). All your arrangements worked perfectly, the pick-ups, the hotel (thanks, really liked the room and the wine!), the tours, the Athala (wonderful crew, each and every member out-doing themselves to ensure that we had a great time), the food and the guide (Whitman Cox was just great!). I could not have been happier! Thank you, Christian, for all the arrangements! It was obviously expensive but one doesn’t mind when it is really First Class, which it was! We now have wonderful memories and 1000s of photos! And we will be back at some point (maybe 5 years?). And I will definitely be able to send more Bermuda-based people your way.
  Kind Regards,
  Jens, Sweden, January 2008
  
  
• Fernanda - Matt and I returned from Peru yesterday afternoon. I just wanted to write to thank you for helping us arrange a wonderful trip. And a special thanks for the lovely bottle of champagne that was in our room in Cusco with a welcome note from you. That was a nice surprise. We thoroughly enjoyed being able to see two places that we have wanted to visit for a long time: The Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu.
  The logistics of the trip were beautifully handled. There was not a transfer or pick-up that was not on-time and efficient. The boat was fabulous, and we had great luck with a group of people on the boat we enjoyed and found most interesting.
  Louis and Matt Myers Washington DC, USA, December 2007
  
  
• Hello Fernanda,
  Thanks so much for arranging our cruise. We had a wonderful time and appreciate all of your help.
  We are glad we had a chance to meet you and visit Columbus Travel.
  Happy New Year!
  Paul Neubert, USA, December 2007
  
  
• Hi Yoyi
  Just a quick note to say thank you for your help in making our holiday so good. We really enjoyed our stay on the boat. everything was excellent, food, cabins, trips ashore, and (best of all for me!) snorkelling. Your were very efficient with the organisation, so everything went very smoothly, and all the other crew were also good at playing their part. I will put a note on-line on the Thorn Tree Forum to say you were great....I will also put the word round among other cruisers, and you may well get some business from them. We wish we could have another week in the Galapagos, but will have to wait a bit and save up!
  Thanks again for your help and friendliness.
  
  
• Hi Cristian
  Just a quick note to say thank you for your help in making our holiday so good. Your were very efficient with the administration, so everything went very smoothly. We really enjoyed our stay on the boat – everything was excellent. I will put a note on-line on the Thorn Tree Forum to say you were great (though I suspect you won’t get much business from there as it is mainly back-packers. But good publicity anyway.) I will also put the word round among other cruisers, and you may well get some business from them – I am writing up some notes on the trip and will include Haugan Cruises and your name among the ‘highly recommended’. We wish we could have another week in the Galapagos, but will have to wait a bit and save up!
  Thanks again for your help,
  David and Lin Thorley, United Kingdom, November 2007
  
  
• Hi Maria Elena
  I just wanted to thank you again for doing such a fabulous job of organizing our holiday and for taking such good care of us when we were in South America. We had a wonderful holiday aboard the Athala in the Galapagos, and our Peru extension was excellent as well. We were very impressed with the level of care we received. There was a representative to meet us every step of the way, and we always felt as though we were in good hands. We wish you continued success with Columbus travel, and we would be very happy to provide an excellent recommendation should you ever require one.
  Best regards,
  Catherine and Bryan Clake
  
  
• Maria Elena,
  I just wanted to thank you again for a wonderful trip on the Athala. Your oversight made everything run perfect and we appreciate it. Bicho and Lobo were excellent guides and our families are still talking about the trip. We have traveled extensively around the world, but I do believe this was my favorite vacation of them all. In fact, we are having an Athala reunion barbeque this weekend at our house to share our photos and stories. Once we pick out a few favorite photos, we’ll send them to you. Please give our best to the crew and thanks again for an amazing vacation.
  Regards,
  Kurt von Emster
  
  
• We recently took your Galapagos Island cruise on Athala II. We thought the trip was fantastic, one of the best we've ever taken--and we've traveled all over the world. We wanted to give a special thanks to Fernanda Borja for all her help in planning and scheduling this trip. She is a true asset to your organization. We found the boat to be extremely comfortable, the meals were all quite good, and the crew outstanding and very helpful. We also want to compliment you on your choice of Jimmy Iglesias as tour guide. He is extremely knowledgeable, was helpful to each and every passenger and was especially aware of passenger safety. Besides all this, he has a wonderful sense of humor. and the trip would not have been nearly as enjoyable without Jimmy.
  Sincerely,
  Gail and Ted Neher, Colorado, USA
  
  
• Dear Fernanda:
  I wanted to take a moment and tell you how absolutely amazing the Galapagos Island cruise was. First of all, the Athala II is a beautiful ship with comfortable and well-appointed rooms. I couldn't believe the size of the bathroom! We were treated very well by the crew. The little touches also made quite a difference as well. We had lovely chocolates in our room at night and our towels were decoratively displayed upon our bed each day. The chef, Darwin, created the most delicious meals for us at breakfast, lunch and dinner. I am surprised that the boat did not sink with all that we ate! Also, after each dive or walk, we were welcomed back on board with hot chocolate or some other snack. Not a detail or small pleasure was forgotten. Our guide, not to be left out, was also first rate. We spoke to many of our fellow travelers to the Galapagos and everyone raved about what they saw on land and in the sea. None, however, raved about their accommodations and food like the passengers aboard the Athala II. Thank you very much for such an amazing way to see such an amazing place.
  Regards,
  Lesley-Jane and Brad, United Kingdon
  
  
• We are home in Pennsylvania safe and sound and I wanted to email you and tell you that we had a fabulous time in all our travels in Ecuador. Thank you for all your input and correspondence over the last 8 months! I was a little worried about booking everything online, but all was perfect! …The Athala II, is an awesome boat, the crew, the food, the itinerary were perfect. Yoyi and Juan were so much fun and accommodating, I would highly recommend this boat and cruise to everyone. We were the 1st, 8 day cruise and it was perfect!
  Denise Eddinger, Pennsylvania, USA
  
  
• Hello Bertha and Fernanda, I just wanted to thank you both for all your help and to tell you that we had a fabulous trip on the Athala (with Haugan Cruises). The Athala is a beautiful, luxurious boat; the crew was fantastic and the food delicious. I have attached pictures of the crew in their sparkling white uniforms and one of the Athala too. Our chef, Darwin, was superb; Omar (bartender) served us juices and hot appetizers when we came in from snorkeling; and Camillo, Freddy, Jose, and all the crew members were always kind and helpful and lots of fun too. We were treated like queens & kings ..... the best I have ever experienced. It was quite a treat (and the crew was so proud of their ship too). Thank you again.
  Sharon Allen, USA, July 2007
  
  
• I really can’t imagine a better level of service.
  Yolanda, Ottawa, Canada
  
  
• It really was a trip of a lifetime. We had a wonderful time. The Athala 2 is a beautiful boat and the staff & crew were fantastic. Thank you again.
  Maura, USA

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• One of the best trips we’ve ever had. Crew was very professional and friendly. Guide was awesome, animals, islands, snorkelling was great. Thank you.
  
  
• One of the best cruises we have taken. The food was the best. An extremely pleasant experience that we would recommend to everyone.
  
  
• Beautiful accommodation, excellent food, friendly staff. Yoyi did a superb job. The cruise was efficient, well-organized and very enjoyable – luxurious too.
  
  
• Loved the cruise & the Galapagos.
  
  
• Yoyi and the staff went the whole way. Food was terrific.
  
  
• The crew really catered to the guests and genuinely seemed to care about all of us and how well our vacation was going. The boat, the crew, the amenities were superb.
  
  
• Beautiful boat, great food and service.
  
  
• Best boat, best crew, best cruise. If our friends were interested in visiting the Galapagos we’d insist they take the Athala II.
  
  
• Attentive and friendly staff. Awesome naturalist guide. Great food. Clean and beautiful boat.
  
  
• Very enjoyable. Great crew and lovely ship.
  
  
• Best ship and crew. Keep up the good work !! You guys were amazing.
  
  
• Recommend to people as one of the best trips we’ve ever had. Crew was very professional and friendly. Guide was awesome, animals, islands, snorkelling was great. Thank you.
  
  
• The whole experience exceeded our expectations.
  
  
• Absolutely everything was first rate: the cheeriness of the crew, the cleanliness of everything, the tastiness of the food - everything
  
  
• Absolutely everything was excellent and everyone was very friendly.
  
  
• Excellent value for trip.
  
  
• I can’t believe there are better boats than this.
  
  
• This is the most unique place in the world. We enjoyed everything. Yoyi is a superb cruise manager. Breakfast and lunches were especially good.
  
  
• Great ship, great crew, great food, great guide. Jimmy was an excellent guide – knowledgeable and yet fun to be with.
  
  
• Crew were exceptional, the boat was beautiful and very comfortable and the itinerary excellent. We would like to give especially high praise to the crew of the Athala. In many ways they made this trip exceptional for us. In particular, please pass along our warmest regards and sincere thanks to Omar, Freddy, Camilo and Martin. They truly stood out as exceptional and are a major part of why we would recommend the Athala to other travellers. They were truly amazing
  
  
• Great experience and service.
  
  
• I just wanted to tell you we had a wonderful time. The Athala 2 is a beautiful boat and the staff & crew were fantastic. It really was a trip of a lifetime. Thank you again.
  
  
• Muchas gracias por habernos permitido compartir unos lindos dias con ustedes.
  
  
• What a perfect combination of physical adventure and luxury. Your crew is wonderful, always smiling, always ready to lend a hand. Thank you for making my Galapagos experience one I´ll always remember with happiness. PS I like your decor also – very tasteful.
  
  
• You cannot beat the overall professionalism of the crew and guide of Athala. Great crew and cruise manager – my heart goes out to them.
  
  
• Excelente cruise manager de verdad.
  
  
• All the small details were taken care of and a lot of thought was dedicated to everything. Everything was great, starting from the food, the guide, the cleanliness of everything. Thank you very much we had the best time!

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Yolanda, Ottawa, Canada
Posted on: 5:11 pm, May 30, 2007

We just got back from one week on the Athala 2 and it was outstanding. It is a beautiful new boat with a great itinerary (go for the full week, we had others on the boat that went for either 3 or 4 nights and missed out on a lot). The itinerary was aggressive, but well worth it – I can’t imagine having missed out on any of the sites we took in. The boat was very spacious – it fit very comfortably the 16 passengers, 10 crew members and 1 naturalist guide.

I would recommend cabins on the main deck as they have private balconies – a real treat. We often sat out on the balcony early in the morning or late evenings to watch sea lions playing just a few feet away from us. The cabins are spacious with a lot more storage than we ever needed, the beds were comfortable, great Aveda bath products and there was always a lot of hot water. Excellent food (and lots of it) thanks to our fantastic chef Darwin – we were even greeted with fresh juice and snacks after our excursions!

The one thing that impressed us the most was how truly phenomenal the 10 crew members were. They were each of them professional, friendly, patient and accommodating. They really made this trip outstanding for us. (Especially Camilo, Martin, Freddy and Omar!! – we just loved them!) There is also a dedicated cruise manager on board (Yoyi) who was equally excellent – she really did everything to please the passengers – if someone made a suggestion for an improvement it was implemented right away. I really can’t imagine a better level of service.

Prior to arriving on the Athala we had been in a long string of high-end hotels before finally ending up in the Galapagos for our final week and never received a level of service that even came close to the Athala 2. We really will remember all 10 of them extremely fondly – they were absolutely fantastic.

Our naturalist was good (and very popular with the other passengers) but there doesn’t seem to be one permanent naturalist on board. There was a different one scheduled for the week after we left. We would not hesitate to go on the Athala 2 no matter who the naturalist was – if the crew was the same that would be all we’d need to ensure an awesome trip!


Meg_np, Boston
Posted on: 8:52 am, June 01, 2007

I just want to second Yolanda's review. I was on board the Athala II at the same time for the 5d/4n portion and had an exceptional time. The boat was spacious and immaculate and the service superb...all of it surpassed my expectations. It truly was an amazing trip and the crew of the Athala 2 had a huge role in making it so.


ChicagoILGirl, Chicago
Posted on: 1:28 pm, June 05, 2007

The crew - they consistently went out of their way to ensure the customer's comfort… And the islands themselves were something new each day - where else can you snorkel with penguins, sea lions, turtles and sharks, then hike to see marine iguanas sprawled in the sun?

All in all, a great vacation that I would recommend (and have recommended) to any who are interested in going to the Galapagos. From looking at the other boats we encountered on our trip, I would not have wanted to be on a different boat (and particularly not on a larger one, as the islands became somewhat overrun when they offloaded).

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