Review: Aqua Mare

What is the line? Aqua Expeditions

Name of ship? Aqua Mare

Passenger occupancy? 16

Itinerary? Galápagos

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

Aqua Expeditions operates a fleet of three river ships and two ocean ships across South America and Southeast Asia, offering adventurous yet luxurious voyages in beautiful natural destinations.

Tell us about the ship in general.

Aqua Mare is a 50-meter superyacht based in the Galápagos that's bookable by the cabin, giving you a private yacht experience without the cost of charting your own vessel. Speaking of those cabins, there are just seven of them, which means this isn't a typical cruise in any manner. Guests mingle in one of three main public areas: the panoramic lounge on the upper deck, which features a giant U-shaped sofa and the ship's small bar; the beach club on the aft lower deck, which is a more casual gathering place off which you'll find the swim deck; or the sun deck with loungers, six-person hot tub, and a barbeque area. Rounding out the public spaces are an indoor dining room and an outdoor one. And that's it! But for a cruise in the Galápagos, there's nothing else you'll need.

Who is onboard?

The yacht has a maximum capacity of 16 guests, and you'll likely be traveling with couples, solo travelers, or families. Usually there are multiple groups onboard, but in my case, it was just me and a multi-gen family of nine. Since the vessel is so intimate, you'll undoubtedly become fast friends with your new travel companions—the family traveling with me welcomed me into their group warmly.

Describe the cabins.

There are just seven cabins onboard, and each is sumptuously outfitted by yacht designer Francois Zuretti: Think glossy walnut-veneer walls and marble baths. My cabin, number 301, was fairly petite, with just enough space for a double bed and a desk, but its location on the upper deck meant it had a large picture window. I think it's likely the best cabin for a solo traveler, though it could certainly fit a couple, too. The four cabins on the lower deck were larger, but they only had portholes. On the main deck were two more cabins, including the absolutely massive Owner's Suite. Spanning more than 860 square feet, this was the only cabin with space for more than two, as there were two bunks perfect for children.

Tell us about the crew.

The crew is on hand when you need them and invisible when you don't, which is nothing short of impressive given the small size of the vessel. And there's one crewmember for every guest, ensuring the utmost attention. With a full complement of 16 guests, Aqua Mare will also have two guides, meaning there are just eight guests per guide on excursions. On larger ships, guides might have to manage up to 16 guests.

What food and drink options are available on board?

All meals are served either in the indoor dining room, where there are two four-top and one eight-seat tables; the family-style table in the outdoor dining room; or the shaded dining area on the sun deck. Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino has curated a seafood-focused culinary program that highlights not only Ecuadorian specialties, but Nikkei, or a Peruvian-Japanese fusion, too. One of my favorite meals was a build-your-own poke bowl lunch. And, of course, this is yacht-style sailing, which means that if you request something off-menu, it can likely be done.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

One of the trade-offs of sailing on a yacht rather than a cruise ship is the lack of a spa. But your itinerary will be so fulfilling, you probably won't miss it!

What about activities and entertainment?

The majority of your time onboard will be spent eating or sleeping, but in between, your guides might give a lecture in the lounge or put on a movie for your entertainment. At the very least, you'll have a briefing each evening about the next day's activities. But truth be told, there wasn't too much free time onboard, as we spent most mornings and afternoons off the ship. Between excursions and meals, I frequently found myself napping either in my cabin or on the sun deck.

How was the experience for families?

Who needs a kids' club when you have the Galápagos to entertain you? The Galápagos islands are one of the best places in the world for a family vacation, as there's nothing quite like seeing kids' wide-eyed wonder during wildlife encounters. On our sailing, the kids were avid snorkelers—and big fans of the hot tub to warm up afterward. And while these kids were adventurous eaters, the kitchen staff was always ready to prepare something special for them, just in case.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

Aqua Mare is permanently based in the Galápagos, and it sails seven-night itineraries through the archipelago; one focusing on the eastern islands and one on the western ones. (You can also stack the two itineraries for a comprehensive 14-day trip.) Activities depend on the specific islands you're visiting, but you can always expect to see wildlife, whether via hiking or snorkeling—on our trip, we were able to snorkel with penguins. The ship is equipped with snorkel gear and wet suits for the cold water, so you don't need to pack your own; there are also kayaks and stand-up paddleboards available for those who'd prefer to remain dry. One stop on each itinerary will always be the island of Santa Cruz, where you'll see the Galápagos' famous giant tortoises at a local ranch and at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

There are no single-use plastics onboard; guests are provided with reusable water bottles.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

Aqua Mare is undoubtedly the most luxurious way to cruise the Galápagos—without having your own yacht, that is.