Galapagos wildlife looks the same whether you visit by land or sea!

Galapagos wildlife looks the same whether you visit by land or sea!

March 25, 2022 Pat Ogle-Collins , , , No comments

When planning the vacation of a lifetime, the question isn’t “should I visit the Galapagos,” but rather “should I visit the Galapagos by land or by sea?” There are pros and cons to each, but whichever option you choose, you’re sure to have a fantastic adventure that’s guaranteed to be an experience you’ll never forget.

The Galapagos, located in the country of Ecuador, is a bucket-list trip for many nature lovers looking to experience all the wonder and excitement the archipelago has to offer. Known as the birthplace of evolution, Charles Darwin famously

Because the Galapagos is a destination composed of 13 major islands, most assume cruising is really the only way to go, but land-based tours are an increasingly popular option.

studied the wildlife on the islands and wrote “The Origin Of Species,” which changed the way people viewed our existence in the universe. Today, the Galapagos Islands are a popular tourist destination while still maintaining the protection needed to guard the extensive species of wildlife that call the region home.

Galapagos by Land

Many people feel wary about setting sail aboard a cruise ship due to motion sickness or a fear of water. For those not thrilled with the thought of traveling by sea, there are many excellent vacation opportunities on land that are equally as fun. The Galapagos has four inhabited islands vacationers can visit: San Cristobal, Isabela,

Regardless of how you visit the Galapagos, Puerto Ayora, the capital of Santa Cruz, draws bucket list travelers, sea lions and pelicans because of its beautiful port.

Santa Cruz, and Florena. Each one offers a unique experience all its own. If you choose to stay on land, locals recommend you split your time between at least two islands to maximize your opportunities for adventure. The two most common choices are Isabela and Santa Cruz.

Isabela is the largest island in the archipelago and is home to a volcano, tortoise breeding center, highlands, wetlands, and a glorious white sand beach. Many choose to stay in a hotel either right along the beach or high above in the lush forest.

Santa Cruz is the capital of Puerto Ayora and a bustling town full of life and energy. Local restaurants and shops feature the unique tastes of the islands, making Santa Cruz an excellent place to get a feel for the culture. It’s also home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, highlands, and the world-famous Tortuga Bay, considered the most beautiful beach in the archipelago.

Staying on one of the islands offers pros and cons, and it’s important to understand them all before making your decision. There’s no right or wrong choice; it’s all about what suits your needs and makes you the most comfortable.

Pros

  • Staying on land offers you more flexibility for touring various destinations. You’re not controlled by strict scheduling like those staying on a ship, so you can explore at your own pace.
  • There are more options for luxury hotels that offer a wide range of amenities. Many hotels provide luxury land-based packages that are all-inclusive and make planning your stay easier.

Land travelers can’t avoid the sea entirely in the Galapagos relying on ferries from the Santa Cruz ferry port.

  • When you stay on an island, more of your money goes toward helping the local economy. You can support local tour operators, lodging, and restaurants, helping grow the region’s economy.
  • Staying on land gives families more accessibility options, which is especially useful for those with small children or the elderly. Many ships don’t allow children under the age of seven, so choosing to stay on the islands provides everyone, regardless of age, the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the Galapagos.
  • You also have the freedom to explore at your own pace. If you want to spend a day relaxing poolside, you have the option. You can also choose to come back to the hotel to rest throughout the day, which is not a possibility for those staying aboard a boat.
  • There is also less chance of experiencing motion sickness since you can choose to avoid excursions that require boat access. Although not using any form of seacraft does limit the number of adventures you can go on, it is possible to avert boats altogether if you plan accordingly.
  • More custom excursion opportunities are also available when you stay on the islands. You can create the perfect vacation to suit everyone in your group.
  • You have easier access to diving day trips than if you stayed on a ship, which is exciting if you want to explore more of the sea.

Some of the Galapagos islands, like Ferandina, can only be accessed via a cruise.

Cons

  • Unless you book a well-established island hopping tour package, you can spend the majority of your time negotiating to and from your excursions, leaving minimal time for your actual adventure. Also, on single-day sightseeing tours, you’re not guaranteed the same tour guide or group every day, and their experience levels may vary.
  • More of your daytime hours will be spent in transit, with crossings between islands

generally taking 2-3 hours and can take up to 4 hrs with rough waters.

  • Smaller boats can’t be avoided for those concerned with motion sickness unless you stay on one island and avoid diving/snorkeling excursions.
  • You’ll miss out on cruise-only islands.

Galapagos by Sea

In the past, more visited the Galapagos by sea, but it is still a popular option today. Due to the conservation efforts in the area, only two size boats are allowed, small, which houses 80-100 vacationers, and intimate only allowing up to 40 passengers. When staying on a ship, it’s important to note your schedule is more structured, and those aboard a sailboat should expect limited use of sails due to these tighter schedules.

Pros

  • Staying aboard a ship allows for the most efficient itineraries since you don’t spend hours traveling to your destinations during the day; you simply wake up to your new adventure spot.
  • More islands are available like Fernandina and Genovesa, which are only open to cruise ship passengers.
  • You’ll have access to the highest quality naturalists.

The Ecuadorian government and the Galapagos tightly regulate cruises with ships limited to a maximum of 100 passengers.  Most ships carry between 12 and 16 passengers.

  • You create a smaller ecological footprint.
  • You can disconnect easier since there is limited cell phone and internet service onboard.
  • Avoid hotel hopping and unpacking multiple times.
  • The all-inclusive packages include your meals.
  • Every itinerary is action-packed with exciting adventures.

Cons

  • You travel with the same group of people for the entire trip .
  • Often more costly than vacationing on land.
  • There’s an increased opportunity for motion sickness.
  • Many ships don’t allow children under seven.

Guide are required on the Galapagos and ships draw the best of the best.

Vacationing in the Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, either on land or by sea. Both options feature fantastic adventures and are guaranteed to create lifelong memories. Now you can choose your ideal way to experience everything the Galapagos offers and see what everyone is raving about. So what are you waiting for? Call me to start making your plans to check this off your list today!

Pat Ogle-CollinsGalapagos wildlife looks the same whether you visit by land or sea!
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Expedition cruising allows you to dive deep, rather than escape!

Expedition cruising allows you to dive deep, rather than escape!

March 18, 2022 Pat Ogle-Collins , , , , No comments

If you’ve been on a cruise ship before, you know that all of the bells and whistles can be exhausting. However, not every sea journey is the same, and an expedition cruise could be just what you need! With intellectually stimulating activities, world-class accommodation, and unforgettable itineraries, expedition cruises are fast becoming the preferred way to sail the high seas.

But what exactly is an expedition cruise? Where do

Lindblad Expeditions, the oldest company in the expedition cruise company, partners with National Geographic to explore regions across the globe including during whale season off Baja, California in Mexico.

they go? And why are they becoming the go-to cruise option for those looking to travel the oceans?

Put simply, an expedition cruise is a journey to hard-to-reach areas of the globe that immerse the travelers in the natural side of the location they are visiting and sometimes even the culture and history. They allow passengers to experience the wild side of nature while traveling in comfortable, modern accommodation.

Expedition cruise ships come in many forms.  The Maryanne is the only sailing schooner in the Galapagos. With a maximum of 16 passengers, the ship provides a unique way to enjoy this bucket destination.

Want to know more? Let’s talk about why you should add an expedition cruise to your bucket list!

One of the common misconceptions about expedition cruises is the accommodation. When the term comes to mind, you might think of Christopher Columbus traveling to the Americas, or Cortez and his men eating hardtack and drinking rancid water. Think again! Expedition cruises are in line with typical cruises in their amenities, but the atmosphere onboard is like no other. You’ll travel with people from all walks of life, from the scientifically curious to those looking to escape their comfort zone. Get involved with the educational presentations, or put yourself to work learning about traditional sailing methods of seafarers of centuries past.

Many people associate cruise ships with the older retiree looking for sunny shores or the family of four excited for the all-you-can-eat seafood buffet and deck pool.  However, an expedition cruise is so

much more than that! Many companies offer different styles of travel, from the modern cruise liners with facilities like gyms and saunas, but some cater more to those with an adventurous side.  Traditional cruises may come with all the frills, but there is nothing quite like traveling on an old-school clipper ship through the Galapagos Islands or punching your way through icebergs and wild waters in the Antarctic. While such

experiences were once reserved for scientists and researchers, expedition cruises now offer the chance for regular people to undertake once-in-a-lifetime journeys that can be found nowhere else.

Because of this, cruise leaders and staff are often experts in their field, and you can expect everyone from historians to marine biologists to be onboard during your journey. These knowledgeable guides will often impart information about the local area, native animals, and even the history of coves and geological formations you encounter. You’ll leave your cruise feeling educated – and have some interesting facts about your trip for friends and family back home!

Uncruise, even with its name, wants travelers to know that their voyages are different from what other mainstream cruise lines offer even in places like Hawaii.

Photographers, rejoice – expedition cruises are the perfect way to capture some of those enviable holiday snaps! Unlike other cruise ships, expedition cruises are incredibly flexible. Heard that there’s a pod of orcas a few miles away? The cruise ship will likely go out of its way to take you there. Heard about a secret, remote cove for swimming? No problem! Expedition cruises will usually depart from their usual schedule to

The opportunity to get up close with destination and its inhabitants makes an expedition cruise a perfect vacation for photographers – no matter what the skill level.

accommodate weather conditions, sea state, or simply to make their passengers happy. So leave your reservations at the door – spontaneous adventure is around every corner on these unique cruises!

While traditional cruises tend to stick to the same sun-soaked destinations, expedition cruises will also take you to places you’d never even believe were possible. For example, many expeditions sail

to the polar regions, where you’ll be surrounded by ice, snow, and the ever-present polar wildlife. Get up close and personal with penguins, elephant seals, and polar bears on an ice breaker, and marvel at the awe of massive glaciers and ice shelves that loom on either side.

If you’re more about the tropical vibe, don’t despair! Popular destinations for expedition cruises include tropical islands in the Galapagos, remote reefs off the coast of

Destinations abound for those seeking an expedition cruise including the remote Kimberly region of Western Australia.

Madagascar, and even wildlife spotting opportunities along African shores. You can even take a shallow-draught ship through the Amazon River, marveling at the bright and colorful flora and fauna as you pass through. Soak in the sun on the upper decks as you cruise through the still waters of Costa Rica and Panama, or take a smaller boat to explore the many tiny villages that line the shores of these magical destinations.

Traditional cruises are incredibly popular because they facilitate easy travel for passengers of all ages. However, an expedition cruise may present some challenges for travelers with mobility issues. Many expeditions will use inflatable Zodiac craft to move to and from the ship, and landing in rocky coves or beaches may require passengers to jump into shallow water. Expedition cruise ships also tend to be much smaller than traditional liners, with features designed to get them in and out of areas larger vessels cannot go. Don’t worry – if you don’t move around as easily as you’d like, you can still undertake one of these fantastic voyages! You may just be limited in how often you can leave the ship – all the more time to take incredible pictures from the upper decks!

Zodiac excursions and landings allow expedition cruisers access to places their mother ships cannot access allowing travelers to see the beauty and wonder of remote places.

One of the most commonly asked questions about expedition cruises is about the equipment. While many cruises will facilitate adventure activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or scuba diving, you don’t necessarily need to bring your own gear! Most expedition cruise ships will happily allow guests to rent out or borrow everything from wetsuits to cold-weather jackets, with the cost usually absorbed into the fare. If you’re not sure what to pack, cruise companies will send through a detailed list of what to expect and how to prepare in the weeks leading up to the trip.

While traditional cruise liners can carry upwards of 6000 passengers, specialized expedition ships usually have a manifest of between 12-500 like-minded travelers onboard. This means you’ll have a more personalized itinerary and a real sense of community during your voyage. Compare photos, make friends and take away an experience you’ll never forget.

Are you planning your next expedition? Contact me today, and I’ll organize a trip that is sure to thrill and amaze you. From sailing to tropical islands to visiting the polar ice caps, there is an expedition cruise to suit every lifestyle. Channel your inner explorer, and let’s get you to those far corners of the globe! Come on – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!

Pat Ogle-CollinsExpedition cruising allows you to dive deep, rather than escape!
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New Zealand’s Marlborough region packs a double punch – wine and scenery!

New Zealand’s Marlborough region packs a double punch – wine and scenery!

March 11, 2022 Pat Ogle-Collins , , , No comments

Everyone has heard of New Zealand’s most famous wine region, but there is so much more to this glorious destination than just great wine! (But that is a great reason to visit.)  From sprawling mountains to glittering oceans, activities abound for everyone who dares to visit. In addition, New Zealand’s welcoming culture makes this a perfect location to add to your travel bucket list.

Located on the northeast side of New Zealand’s South Island, the Marlborough region is a perfect

See the sounds of Marlborough for the first time as you approach Picton, the harbor for the intra-island ferries.

combination of action, adventure, and of course, excellent food and wine.  Known as the sunniest region in the country, Marlborough was one of the first areas settled by Europeans and has a vibrant history tied to the local Māori tribes. The New Zealand government has made massive strides towards sustainable tourism to ensure that the pristine environment remains for future generations. So, whether you’re a keen outdoor lover or simply want to sample the local fare, there are experiences that I guarantee you’ll remember for years to come when you visit.

The Pelorus River is known for its emerald color and its pools for swimming as well as being featured in the the Lord of the Rings films.

Want to know more? Let’s talk about this beautiful part of the world!

Something many people may not realize about New Zealand – it was the filming location for one of the biggest movie franchises in history! The soaring mountains and rich green landscape provided the perfect inspiration for director Peter Jackson, bringing J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy novels to glorious life on the big screen. The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies were shot in areas all around the country, and many relics of the filming remain today.

For film buffs, it’s worth taking a look around some of the most recognizable country-sides in the world. Take a day trip to the in other areas of New Zealand, Marlborough’s Pelorus River provided the sets where scenes of two very daring escapes were filmed! Guided kayaking and canoe tours are available along the river to get even more up close and personal – just look out for dragons!

If you don’t feel like getting wet, there are plenty of hiking opportunities to immerse yourself in the gorgeous scenery. Known for its spectacular views over the sound and plentiful wildlife and native flora, Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most famous trails in New Zealand. This uniquely gorgeous trail stretches between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds and has something for everyone, from casual walkers to enthusiastic hikers. Take a half-day walk overlooking the water, or make a multi-day trip to experience the full 45.9 mile track in all its glory – it’s up to you!

The Queen Charlotte Track, a 46-mile trail, borders the Queen Charlotte Sound offering spectacular views to energize you!

For longer distance tours, the best way to see the region is on two wheels. During the summer months, cycling through the Marlborough will treat you to magnificent views over vineyards, mountains, and valleys sure to make your jaw drop. Beginners will find the (mostly flat) track between Havelock and Picton suitable, but hill cycling and off-road trails are available for those who want to add a bit of spice to their bike tour.

Known for its sauvignon blanc, the 158 wineries of the Marlborough region offer plenty of options to enjoy their wines and their scenery.

Now it’s time to talk about the main attraction – the wine! Of course, the gorgeous landscape and ideal climate help create the most famous export of the region – the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. However, Marlborough is also known for producing other lush, high-quality varietals that are sold worldwide – think cool-climate chardonnays and earthy pinot noirs.

Upon visiting, you’ll be treated to rows and rows of bright green vines, and juicy grapes – perfect for that Facebook post to make your friends jealous back home. Each of the vineyards has a unique story, and with over 170 wineries available to visit through the Marlborough, you can easily make a day trip into a weekend – just follow your nose! Because of the fantastic weather, you can tackle wine tours however

you like – try a bike or scooter during warmer weather!

While we’re on the topic of wine, I’d be remiss not to mention the other delicious thing that the Marlborough is known for – its food! Known as the ‘green-lipped mussel capital’ of New Zealand is Havelock, a small village that sits a couple of miles from the main wine-growing area. This delightful settlement oozes eclectic charm and is famed for its many seafood eateries and historical buildings. The restaurants here focus on locally grown

produce from surrounding farms, and the seafood is caught daily in the Sounds. You can spend a relaxed weekend here, checking out the famous Havelock Flea Market and learning more about the town’s gold-settlement past for a boost of local history.

For a more bustling big town scene, take a visit to Blenheim. With around 30,000 inhabitants, this town has all of the amenities of a city, but with the laidback vibe of a large country town. Some super-chic restaurants and galleries are located in the center of town, but the most unique feature is the golf course.

Merino sheep, prized for their wool, graze in the hills that overlook the quaint town of Havelock.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Marlborough mountains, you’ll spend more time admiring the view than you will playing!

The Marlborough region is also home to some of the most unique wildlife in the world, with many endemic species found nowhere else. Take a boating tour through the Marlborough Sounds to try and catch a glimpse of killer whales and dolphins at play. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even swim with some of the five dolphin species that call the Sounds home – put on a dry suit, brace yourself and jump into the icy water for the thrill of a lifetime.

The Marlborough Sounds are home to 5 different dolphin species – dusky, bottlenose, common, orca, and hector’s, a rare species.

For those who prefer to see the aquatic world from the safety of a boat, visit Kenepuru for some of the best fishing in the South Island. Friendly locals are usually happy to share their tips and tricks for catching the largest red snapper, and fishing charters leave daily from towns like Blenheim and Havelock. Many charter companies will even let you cook your catch on the boat, so that you can enjoy the seafood at its freshest.

Planning your New Zealand getaway for the summer, or simply want to know what’s outside the gates of the vineyard? Then, let me help organize your dream adventure! From cultural know-how to insider secrets, I can make your trip to the Marlborough  one worth remembering – contact me today to find out how!

Pat Ogle-CollinsNew Zealand’s Marlborough region packs a double punch – wine and scenery!
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On safari, color matters. Fashion? The wildlife doesn’t care!

On safari, color matters. Fashion? The wildlife doesn’t care!

March 4, 2022 Pat Ogle-Collins , , , No comments

So thinking of going on a safari? Fantastic! A safari is the ultimate adventure, with exotic creatures, beautiful landscapes, and unforeseen adventures around every corner. Not only can you create amazing memories, but you’ll also get the opportunity to experience nature in its most untouched form and learn more about this amazing planet we call home.

Africa is one of the most biodiverse continents on Earth, and a safari is on the bucket list of many intrepid travelers for a good reason. From sprawling

Let comfort be the driver of the clothing you select for safari.

savannahs to lush oasis waterholes and thick jungle, this ancient land has many unique endangered species of animal and plant sure to thrill any nature lover during their visit.

While an African safari can be a life-changing journey, you might be wondering about the most crucial question of all – what do I pack?! If this is you, don’t worry – I’ve come up with some pointers to help you load your bags

Pack neutral colored clothing for a safari to help you blend in with the surrounding landscape.

with all the right gear, and know exactly what to leave behind when you venture out for the day.

No time to waste – let’s dive in!

First things first – pack light! While it might be tempting to put everything and the kitchen sink in your bag, in reality, you don’t need much to have a good time. The number one rule of safari is ‘comfort over style,’ so make sure that you’ve got good quality,

neutrally-colored clothing, and footwear. Many safaris use fly between reserves with smaller planes that have strict luggage allowances, with bags made of pliable material weighing no more than 33 pounds (15kg) allowed to avoid overloading. If you’re feeling tempted to overpack, many lodges have a laundry service – no need to bring two pairs of shorts for every day of your trip! When you think back, you’ll remember the incredible experiences you had on your tour – not the clothes you wore.

You might have noticed that I said neutrally-colored clothing – trust me, it’s for a good reason! While it might be tempting to wear brighter fabrics or dark pieces, the hue of your clothing can have more implications than just shielding you from the sun. Black and blue attire and accessories are known for drawing tsetse flies, whose bite carries African sleeping sickness, and white or brightly-colored clothing stands out to animals, making getting up close difficult during your game drive. The red dust of the African savannah also embeds itself into clothing fibers, which can ruin white clothing in the blink of an eye – I learned that from personal experience!

The dust from the red soil of Kenya’s Tsavo National Park can turn tint the fibers of white clothing changing its color forever.

Don’t let yourself be sucked into the idea that for the ‘proper’ experience, you need all manner of special equipment and clothing. While the weather and sun in Africa can be hot, you’ll find that some of your standard sun-smart clothing will do just fine when it comes to your safari. Having said that, it can be a good idea to add a few fun ‘safari-style’ items to your packing list – but no need to overdo it! For example, a stylish wide-brimmed hat or light linen shorts can make a great addition to photos, as well as being protective from the African environment.

Depending on the location and time of year, early morning game drives can be brisk. Dress in layers to allow you to shed clothing as the temperatures rise.

While it’s easy to think that Africa is constantly hot and dry, the truth is that the seasons and locations are incredibly variable and require different items of clothing and protection. Two of the most important things to consider when packing for safari are the time of year and the location you’re headed to. All African nations are different, and the things you’ll need for a Kenyan safari in June will be different from those you’ll want in South Africa during November.

Consider whether you’ll be arriving during the sizzling summer months or taking your safari during the cooler off-peak season when morning and evening temperatures are quite low. Questions like, “Will I need a hat and scarf?” and “Should I think about a rain jacket?” are among those that you’ll need to ask yourself when preparing for your safari. If this sounds like hard work, don’t worry – it’s just like preparing for any other trip! Check average temperatures for your location at a weather site like WeatherBase, and pack your bags accordingly. After all, you wouldn’t forget a winter coat when going to France in December now, would you?

One of the best things about an African safari is seeing unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. So whether you’re a keen zebra fan, or want to get up close and personal with lions in their natural habitat, it’s essential to be able to see the main features of your tour. Consider packing a  good pair of binoculars with a ‘zoom and enhance’ feature to view the animals from a distance, or to make close encounters even more breathtaking.

If there’s one absolute must for a safari, it’s good binoculars!

Africa might be one of the most beautiful places on Earth, but the environment can be hostile. Hot and intense sun, bright sunlight, and dry desert winds are just some of the things that can turn a safari from an unforgettable to an unpleasant experience in no time. So make sure to pack personal protective items like sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and quality sunglasses to shield yourself against the harsh conditions, and keep a water bottle with you at all times to avoid dehydration.

Not a photography nut?  No problem.  The cameras on most phones will take great pictures.

Lastly, you’re going to want to document your trip. Anyone who has ever been on a safari knows that photos and videos are one of the best ways to keep your memories fresh and alive for years to come – and show your friends and family back home, of course! So if you’re a photographer, items like a camera with wide and telephoto lenses, or a GoPro, are a must.  For those who only have a camera phone, don’t worry! Any pictures you take with these will amaze those back home as well, and you can cherish them every time you swipe your phone for years to come.

While packing for a safari may seem intimidating, it’s important to remember that at the end of the day, it’s just like packing for a trip to Europe or to the beach! There are things that you’ll need, and some that you definitely won’t – suits and cocktail dresses need not apply! Use common sense, don’t overthink it, and stick to the basics – if you forget something, chances are that your lodge or resort will have spares that you can purchase, borrow, rent, or they can help you obtain.  Remember, safari lodges are all about service, and want you to have a terrific experience as much as you do!

If you’re thinking about or planning your safari, or want some more information on how to pack, get in contact and let me help! I’ve got the knowledge, tools, and experience to create an unforgettable itinerary and take the pressure off your mind so you can enjoy your journey. With everything from lodge bookings to tour company packages, I can have you feeling as though you’re part of the Lion King in no time – find out how today

Pat Ogle-CollinsOn safari, color matters. Fashion? The wildlife doesn’t care!
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