“Guests often tell us that their most sensational and enjoyable wildlife viewing comes from behind a mask while snorkeling,” said Ecoventura spokeswoman Doris Welsh.

“They also report how amazed they are with the number and variety of snorkeling outings we include in our itineraries.”

She said that in addition to guided shore excursions, guests can opt to snorkel or kayak at least once and sometimes twice daily in Galapagos waters. “Plus our small yachts (20 passengers) give our guests more opportunities to snorkel as compared to bigger vessels that take more time with the logistics of loading and unloading larger groups.”

“These are not-to-be-missed opportunities to snorkel with playful sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, graceful rays, tropical fish and even friendly sharks. You may even be able to snorkel with dolphins or find yourself spectator to a friendly feeding frenzy,” she said, recommending Gardner Islet at Gardner Bay for tropical fish, sea lions, rays and sharks; Sombrero Chino for penguins; and Punta Espinosa for sea turtles.

Following are Ecoventura‚s tips on how to make the most of a snorkeling adventure in the Galapagos.

-Find a mask that fits. When pressed to the face it should stick (better yet, bring a mask and snorkel from home, but do use the fins on board the ship (these are bulky items and take up too much room in a suitcase).

-Bring a skin suit (and dive gloves) to wear underneath the wet suit provided on board. The skin provides added warmth and an extra layer of protection. Note that at the surface, Galapagos waters are very comfortable for snorkeling averaging 70 to 78 degrees F varying on time of year, currents and depth.

-Before a trip get a copy of the Galapagos Reef Fish Identification Guide by Paul Humann. http://www.amazon.com/Reef-Fish-Identification-Paul-Humann/dp/187834806X

-Always snorkel with a buddy and stay within eye distance and ear shot of the group and Zodiac. Life vests are available and recommended for some swimmers.

-Consider July to October for optimum snorkeling. Water temperatures are warmer December to May, however the marine mammals (dolphins and whales) as well as sea lions and sharks are more active when temperatures are cooler July to October.

Welsh points out that, “Starting in 2012, due to new regulations for all cruise companies in the Galapagos, ships will no longer be in port for a full day during the cruise itinerary so the possibility of scheduling an optional „dive day” will no longer be possible. However snorkeling, especially in deep water, will still provide a „dive like‰ experience.‰

Ecoventura last year helped launch DivEncounters Alliance (http://www.divencounters.com/) to handle sales and reservations for the growing scuba dive market in the Galapagos and elsewhere. For scuba divers who want to combine diving in Galapagos with wildlife top side, the fleet‚s luxury dive live-aboard, Galapagos Sky offers one week in tandem with a second week on Eric, Flamingo or Letty. Passengers are eligible for a 5 percent discount on selected departure dates.

About Ecoventura: Ecoventura is a family-owned company based in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with sales offices in Quito and Miami. In operation since 1990, the cruise company transports 4,000+ passengers annually aboard its fleet of three expedition vessels; Eric, Flamingo and Letty, identical, superior first-class 20-passenger motor yachts. The company also operates the M/V Galapagos Sky, a 16-passenger dedicated dive live-aboard offering 7-night weekly itineraries visiting the northern islands of Wolf and Darwin.

To reserve a cabin or private charter, or to receive a copy of Ecoventura‚s 2011-2012 catalog please call toll-free 1.800.633.7972, or e-mail info@galapagosnetwork.com. To access current rates, schedules and itineraries log on to http://www.ecoventura.com/

What a traveler is recommended to bring is determined in advance with the tour operator. Pack with a Purpose works with top tour operators from around the world. For example, in the Galapagos, Ecoventura‚s team notes that one youth organization needs computer equipment, digital cameras, scanners, a sound system, pens, pencils, pencil sharpeners, rulers, English teaching books, English/Spanish dictionaries, software and ecology-focused teaching aids. Another organization for physically and mentally challenged children needs puzzles, rubber balls, crayons, modeling clay and colored pencils.

Doris Welsh, Ecoventura‚s Director of Sales & Marketing, said that participation in Pack with a Purpose is aligned with the company‚s community outreach and conservation mission programs.

„We invite people to ask us what they need to pack,‰ she said, adding 400 pencils and five deflated soccer balls can add up five pounds to help poor communities. She suggested that through Ecoventura Yachts – Ecuador // Pack For A Purpose, travelers can also free up space while they‚re at the destination to purchase handicrafts they can bring home with them, thereby helping the economy and people in another way.

As one of the most ecology-minded and socially responsible tour companies in Ecuador, based in San Cristobal, Ecoventura has helped to support various initiatives that benefit the local population living in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal. With a population of 5,600, San Cristobal has the second largest population in the Islands after Santa Cruz. It is the fifth largest island and the only Island with fresh water and an airport in town.

Through the foundation „Gotitas de Esperanza‰ (Drops of Hope), Ecoventura has pledged to sponsor the salaries for teachers and physical therapists who work at the Alejandro Alvear School located on San Cristobal Island. During the day, the school provides therapy for children with Down‚s Syndrome and other physical disabilities. In the evenings, the school serves the adult population of the Island through programs such as teaching sign language for the hearing impaired.

About Ecoventura: Ecoventura is a family-owned company based in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with sales offices in Quito and Miami. In operation since 1990, the cruise company transports 4,000+ passengers annually aboard its fleet of three expedition vessels; Eric, Flamingo and Letty, identical, superior first-class 20-passenger motor yachts. The company also operates the M/V Galapagos Sky, a 16-passenger dedicated dive live-aboard offering 7-night weekly itineraries visiting the northern islands of Wolf and Darwin. All of its vessels have been purposefully retrofitted to meet or exceed the highest possible environmental standards.

In 2008, Ecoventura was presented with the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism ˆ Best in a Marine Environment Award. Distinguished judges noted Ecoventura‚s contribution toward improving conditions for local people in Galapagos and for being among the first operators to be independently audited. In 2009, Ecoventura was honored with the Conde Nast World Savers Award as the top scoring cruise line. The panel of judges noted the company was exceptional in education, preservation, poverty and health. In November 2009, Ecoventura received Travel + Leisure‚s 5th annual Global Vision Award for Green Cruising.

To reserve a cabin or private charter, or to receive a copy of Ecoventura‚s 2011 catalog please call toll-free 1.800.644.7972, or e-mail info@galapagosnetwork.com. To access current rates, schedules and itineraries log on to http://www.ecoventura.com/

Why the focus on September and October?

Hernan Rodas, the visionary founder and owner of Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges (http://www.redmangrove.com/), explains that cooler, dryer air and lower water temperatures prevail in these months in the Galapagos and regions of mainland Ecuador. These conditions make for good sightings of sea lions with pups while snorkeling and diving. Manta ray congregate for plankton that arrives on colder currents. Giant tortoises are still nesting and laying eggs, Galapagos penguins are friskier than usual while hammerhead sharks school in greater numbers. Most species of sea birds are active at their nesting sites providing prime viewing. And off the mainland coast in a region called Ruta del Sol it‚s high season for both surfing and humpback whale encounters.

„All reasons enough to consider a Galapagos / Ecuador vacation in the fall which is generally a quieter time for us,‰ Rodas says.

Temperatures in the high 60s to mid-70‚s stimulate efforts to climb and trek, activities that might seem daunting when it‚s hot or wet, plus it‚s a great time to surf mainland beaches, he noted, adding that there‚s more lodging inventory, fewer people at popular sites and throughout the country and off-peak pricing in restaurants and shops.

Following are three suggested tour options from Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges that are particularly suited to September and October travel:

Galapagos: Land & Sea Dive Adventure

http://www.redmangrove.com/diving/land-and-sea-adventure.html

6 days/5 nights: This package is for the novice to intermediate diver who gets to experience up to eight two-tank dives along with interpretive nature hikes, snorkeling and off-time lounging on the beach or exploring the streets of Puerto Villamil. From $2,300 per person, double. Red Mangrove Dive Center provides all equipment except dive computers which can be rented.

Mainland Ecuador: Ruta del Sol Adventure

http://www.redmangrove.com/tours/a-magical-adventure.html

5 days/4 nights: Nature lovers can explore unique dry forests and cloud forests with rare fauna / flora, snorkel coral reefs surrounded by exotic sea life, observe numerous bird species and swim and surf in warm waters off isolated beaches. Guests stay at the 11 room Red Mangrove Samai Lodge, a relaxing jungle inn and wellness spa. From $880 per person, double.

Galapagos/Mainland Combo: Extraordinary Ecuador

http://www.redmangrove.com/tours/extraordinary-ecuador.html

12 days/11 nights: A comprehensive package that combines quality time on three Galapagos islands and mainland Pacific beaches. From $4,300 per person, double. Rates include accommodations, most meals, English-speaking naturalist-guides, all domestic flights from start to finish, airport and ferry transfers, all required gear and service charge. There is a 25% discount for children under 10 years old. Departures may be scheduled year-round.

On these and other packages offered by Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, while in the islands guests stay at the company‚s eco lodges. In other locations they enjoy the hospitality of boutique hotels and jungle lodges, their colorful hosts and the area‚s most popular activities that Rodas has meticulously sourced.

Rodas is a native of Ecuador. For him, sharing his country with newcomers is more than a business; it‚s an honor and a passion. „Especially for Americans, Ecuador is so easy to access, there‚s minimal jet lag from time zones, and a topographical diversity within a few hours any direction that‚s unique in the world,‰ says Rodas. This one-stop-shopping package relies on Rodas‚ knowledge of Ecuador‚s hidden gems and what do and see en route and at each site.

About Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges in 2007 introduced a land-based alternative to exploring the Galapagos that heretofore was a cruise-only destination. While it may be best known for its upscale lodging and dive operations in the Galapagos, recent expansion has made it a leader in mainland Ecuador hospitality as well. With upscale waterfront lodges strategically situated on Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana, it is the only company offering high quality, branded accommodations and services on multiple islands in the Galapagos and across mainland Ecuador. Because it is land-based, Red Mangrove can offer a more extensive roster of activities and more flexibility than traditional cruise options.

The customary way to experience Red Mangrove‚s Galapagos hospitality is to spend a number of nights on each island accessed by small boat and/or aircraft. With 14 guest rooms, Aventura Lodge on Santa Cruz is distinguished by its architectural design which blends its mangrove forest and seafront environments tastefully and responsibly. Separated from the ocean by a white sand, palm-lined beach, Isabela Lodge offers eight rooms outside the fisherman‚s village of Puerto Villamil on one of the most volcanically active islands on Earth. Red Mangrove Floreana Lodge is a gathering of 10 private pine cottages just a five minute walk from the village of Puerto Velasco Ibarra (population 150). Red Mangrove Divers Lodge Santa Cruz has 11 rooms near the Red Mangrove Dive Academy. Red Mangrove Isabela Divers Lodge features 5-rooms adjacent to scenic Puerto Villamil. On the mainland coast of Ecuador Samai Lodge with 11 rooms is an inn-and-spa suited for recollection, relaxation and wellness surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and crashing surf.

Contact Information:

Phone: 1.888.254.3190 or 1.402.953.0261

Email Form: http://www.redmangrove.com/contact-us/

Website: http://www.redmangrove.com/

This brings to six the number of lodges owned and operated by Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges, the region‚s leading hospitality company for active adventure. Currently there are five island-based accommodations with a total of 46 rooms and another, Red Mangrove Samai Lodge on mainland Ecuador featuring 11 guest rooms.

Hernan Rodas, visionary founder and owner, said the two new lodges represent his strategy to create a world-class dive destination in the Galapagos by utilizing sustainable, small, island-based accommodations scattered throughout the Galapagos for multi-island land-based dive packages. In addition, plans are in place for a new state-of-the-art dive academy now under construction with anticipated completion in the spring of 2011.

„We have experienced a dramatic increase in diving the Galapagos. Our two newest lodges developed in the casual but comfortable Red Mangrove style will become a welcome escape for anyone wishing to explore the underwater world of these enchanted isles,‰ Rodas said.

The Red Mangrove Santa Cruz Divers Lodge with hot tub, a library/lounge and on-premise dining is a short walk from the water and adjacent to the Red Mangrove Dive Academy set to open up in the spring. The Dive Academy will be a full-service diver education center, the largest in Ecuador, with a 20-foot-deep training pool, classrooms and state-of-the-art diving equipment. See: http://www.redmangrove.com/lodging/santa-cruz-divers.html

Red Mangrove‚s Isabela Divers Lodge is located within steps of the sea. Built in 2005 with a linear design, large windows invite natural light into every room. There are spectacular views of Isabela Island from the white sand beach bordered by swaying palm trees. Three meals a day are served in the “Coco Restaurant” located adjacent to the lodge. All rooms have private bathroom, hot water, hair dryer, safety box, air conditioning, cable television, wireless internet and laundry service. See:

http://www.redmangrove.com/lodging/isabela-divers.html

All-inclusive lodge/dive packages from $943.50 per person for two days and three nights (25 percent discount for ages 10 and under) include all meals, soft drinks, excursions with English-speaking naturalist guides, on some islands free use of bikes, use of snorkeling gear and diving equipment (except for dive computers that can be rented separately).

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges also features weeklong land-based dive programs that are usually $500 to $1,000 less per person than a live-aboard dive program. Land based diving also offers the opportunity to do additional training while diving with a PADI instructor. Beginning divers may get their Open Water Certification and seasoned divers may obtain their Advanced Certification and Specialty Certifications such as Underwater Photography.

Typically, divers who arrange their scuba experience through Red Mangrove will choose from a variety of multi-island lodge-based diving packages of varying length designed for beginner to expert. Over 45 separate dive sites are accessible off of four different islands, geared to interest and ability.

As a PADI-certified operation Red Mangrove also has the ability to offer classroom and open water training and certification as well as a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) course designed as an introduction to scuba diving. In a matter of a few hours most anyone can see what it is like to breathe underwater and become familiar with scuba equipment without going through the full certification process.

Visitors relax into an intact, solution-oriented, sustainable vacation while discovering the intra-island beauty of five distinct islands: Santa Cruz, Santa Fe, Floreana, Tortuga Island and Isabela. Pre- and post-trip excursions of mainland Ecuador can be arranged by utilizing a sixth lodge, Red Mangrove Samai Lodge on the Pacific Coast mainland.

About Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges in 2007 introduced a land-based alternative to exploring the Galapagos that heretofore was a cruise-only destination. With upscale waterfront lodges strategically situated on Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana, it is the only company offering high quality, branded accommodations and services on multiple islands in the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador. Because it is land-based, Red Mangrove can offer a more extensive roster of activities and more flexibility than traditional cruise options.

The customary way to experience Red Mangrove‚s hospitality is to spend a number of nights on each island accessed by small boat and/or aircraft. With 14 guest rooms, Aventura Lodge on Santa Cruz is distinguished by its unique architectural design which blends its mangrove forest and seafront environments tastefully and responsibly. Its location boasts generous views of Puerto Ayora Bay. Separated from the ocean by a white sand, palm-lined beach, Isabela Lodge offers eight rooms outside the sleepy fisherman‚s village of Puerto Villamil on one of the most volcanically active islands on Earth. Red Mangrove Floreana Lodge is a romantic gathering of 10 private pine cottages just a five minute walk from the village of Puerto Velasco Ibarra (population 150). Red Mangrove Divers Lodge Santa Cruz on Santa Cruz Island has 11 rooms near the Red Mangrove Dive Academy. Red Mangrove Isabela Divers Lodge features 5-rooms adjacent to scenic Puerto Villamil. On the mainland coast of Ecuador Samai Lodge with 11 rooms is an inn-and-spa suited for recollection, relaxation and wellness surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and crashing surf.

Website: http://www.redmangrove.com/

For quite some time, live-aboard diving was the only way to experience the vast undersea world of the Galapagos,” explained Hernan Rodas, visionary founder and owner of Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges. “Many avid divers stayed away from the islands because they did not want to spend a week stuck on a boat.”

Rodas said that his company began offering multi-island lodge-based diving in June 2009 and became a PADI certified resort operation in March 2010 (PADI stands for the Professional Association of Diving Instructors). Aside from their own lodge guests, Red Mangrove’s dive center services day divers from Celebrity Cruises, Haugen Cruises and Galapagos Galaxy.

Typically, divers who arrange their scuba experience through Red Mangrove will choose from a variety of multi-island dive packages of varying length designed for beginner to expert. Over 45 separate dive sites are accessible off of four different islands, geared to interest and ability.

Being a PADI certified operation Red Mangrove also has the ability to offer classroom and open water training and certification as well as a Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) course designed as an introduction to scuba diving. In a matter of a few hours most anyone can see what it is like to breath underwater and become familiar with scuba equipment without going through the full certification process.

This is one of the advantages listed by the staff of Red Mangrove in their Top 10 Reasons to Book a Land-Based Dive Package Over a Galapagos Live-Aboard:

1). Land-based can offer more land excursions, wildlife viewing, and alternative multi-sport activities than a live-aboard.

2). Land-based appeals to a broader spectrum of divers, beginner to expert. It is not just for the “hard core” diver. There are ample dive sites perfect for the novice or occasional diver that will also interest most experts.

3). Land-based is perfect for groups and families with both divers and non-divers in the mix. There are numerous options for non-dive guests. This is not possible on a live-aboard.

4). Land based gives one the opportunity to do additional training while you dive with a PADI instructor. Beginning divers may get their Open Water Certification and seasoned divers may obtain their Advanced Certification and Specialty Certifications such as Underwater Photography.

5). The cost for a land-based dive package is on average $500 to $1000 per person less than a week on a live-aboard.

6). Land-based divers are able to visit more islands for a more intimate exploration of Galapagos including opportunities for social interaction with local island inhabitants.

7). With lodge-based there is no fixed-in-stone itinerary like a live-aboard. One has the flexibility to pick and choose what you want to do and how much you’d like to dive.

8). For many, staying in a lodge is far more comfortable, with no “moving floors” during rough seas, free internet (Red Mangrove’s Santa Cruz and Isabela lodges), and plenty of room to stretch out without confined spaces.

9). Red Mangrove does not charge extra for rental dive equipment (except for dive computers) while a live-aboard will usually assess an average of $250+ for rental gear.

10). It is widely believed that land-based programs have a greatly reduced ecological footprint (relative to a live-aboard cruise) and are better positioned to benefit local communities.

About Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges in 2007 introduced a land-based alternative to exploring the Galapagos that heretofore was a cruise-only destination. With upscale waterfront lodges strategically situated on Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana, it is the only company offering high quality, branded accommodations and services on multiple islands in the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador. Because it is land-based, Red Mangrove can offer a more extensive roster of activities and more flexibility than traditional cruise options.

The customary way to experience Red Mangrove’s hospitality is to spend a number of nights on each island accessed by small boat and/or aircraft. With 14 guest rooms, Aventura Lodge on Santa Cruz is distinguished by its unique architectural design which blends its mangrove forest and seafront environments tastefully and responsibly. Its location boasts generous views of Puerto Ayora Bay. Separated from the ocean by a white sand, palm-lined beach, Isabela Lodge offers eight rooms outside the sleepy fisherman’s village of Puerto Villamil on one of the most volcanically active islands on Earth. Red Mangrove Floreana Lodge is a romantic gathering of 10 private pine cottages just a five minute walk from the village of Puerto Velasco Ibarra (population 150). On the mainland coast of Ecuador Samai Lodge is an inn-and-spa suited for recollection, relaxation and wellness surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and caressed by ocean breezes.

Contact Information:

Phone: 1.888.254.3190 or 1.402.953.0261

Email Form: http://www.redmangrove.com/contact-us/

Website: http://www.redmangrove.com/

This year the company added its fourth lodge, Red Mangrove Samai Lodge on the Pacific Coast mainland. It has three other lodges sprinkled among the Galapagos Islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana and Isabela.

“We want to encourage our Galapagos visitors to also experience the magic of mainland Ecuador while they’re so close,” said Hernan Rodas, the lodging company’s visionary owner and founder.

He said that interest in mainland Ecuador “has increased dramatically, so we now offer mainland Ecuador packages and trip extensions in a more formal way; on our website.” He said that at present fully half of his clients book mainland tours or extensions to their Galapagos experiences.

Rodas said that plans call for adding two more lodges in the near future, one in the Amazon region and the other in the northern highlands of Ecuador.

“Our commitment is to offer the possibility of discovering the many faces of Ecuador in an exciting and memorable way. It’s our homeland and we know how to share and showcase the richness, variety and flavor with guests from all over the world. We can offer the traveler a choice of two hemispheres and four different worlds as we awaken your senses, your heart and your soul to all that is Ecuador,” said Rodas.

Rodas underscores the diversity of Ecuador that includes the Highlands with the Andes mountains, native Indian markets and volcanoes, the Coast with its miles of pristine palm and jungle-fringed beaches, the Amazon Region with an incredible diversity of flora and fauna and Darwin’s magical archipelago, the Galapagos Islands.

About Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges

Red Mangrove Galapagos and Ecuador Lodges in 2007 introduced a land-based alternative to exploring the Galapagos that heretofore was a cruise-only destination. With upscale waterfront lodges strategically situated on Santa Cruz, Isabela and Floreana, it is the only company offering high quality, branded accommodations and services on multiple islands in the Galapagos and mainland Ecuador. Because it is land-based, Red Mangrove can offer a more extensive roster of activities and more flexibility than traditional cruise options.

The customary way to experience Red Mangrove’s hospitality is to spend a number of nights on each island accessed by small boat and/or aircraft. With 14 guest rooms, Aventura Lodge on Santa Cruz is distinguished by its unique architectural design which blends its mangrove forest and seafront environments tastefully and responsibly. Its location boasts generous views of Puerto Ayora Bay. Separated from the ocean by a white sand, palm-lined beach, Isabela Lodge offers eight rooms outside the sleepy fisherman’s village of Puerto Villamil on one of the most volcanically active islands on Earth. Red Mangrove Floreana Lodge is a romantic gathering of 10 private pine cottages just a five minute walk from the village of Puerto Velasco Ibarra (population 150). On the mainland coast of Ecuador Samai Lodge is an inn-and-spa suited for recollection, relaxation and wellness surrounded by the sounds of the jungle and caressed by ocean breezes.

Contact Information:

Phone: 1.888.254.3190 or 1.402.953.0261

Email Form: http://www.redmangrove.com/contact-us/

Website: http://www.redmangrove.com/

They were put on the list of sites in danger in 2007, and the World Heritage Committee, currently meeting in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia, welcomed the Ecuadorian Government’s ongoing efforts to bolster conservation measures, especially in dealing with non-native species arriving in the area through human activity.

With the headway that Ecuador has made in combating threats posed by invasive species, unbridled tourism, and over-fishing, the Galapagos Islands has been removed from the list of World Heritage sites considered to be in danger by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Source: un.org

Image via howstuffworks.com

Dunn will be on hand to accept the award on Sept. 21 at the third annual Conde Nast Traveler World Savers Congress at The Morgan Library & Museum in New York City. The Congress expects to draw some 200 CEOs of major travel industry companies.

“It’s wonderful to be recognized for our past efforts but our groundbreaking work on setting the bar for responsible tourism in the Galapagos has just begun,” reflected Dunn. He has been instrumental in addressing a variety of environmental issues that have put the Galapagos on UNESCO’s World Heritage sites at risk list in 2007, citing the introduction of alien species and the negative impact of growing tourism and immigration as key problems.

“Ironically,” said Dunn, “booming tourism in the Galapagos has added to the challenges and problems faced by those looking to restore and protect the island’s native species and ecological balance.”

Ecoventura’s focus on ameliorating conditions in the Galapagos yielded the company the highest score of 90 points in the category of Cruise Line from the panel of judges. The company was noted as outstanding in four distinct areas:

• Education: For granting scholarships to Ecuadorian students interested in environmental and marine conservation.

• Poverty: For funding a micro-enterprise for fishermen’s wives helping convert a boat into a restaurant & boutique.

• Preservation: For operating the first hybrid power yacht in the Galapagos with solar panels & wind turbines that reduced carbon emissions by 10%.

• Health: Paying the salaries of physical therapists and sign-language teachers at a school in Galapagos.

CNT honors travel companies from around the world for their leadership in social responsibility in five key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education programs, wildlife conservation and health initiatives. The magazine’s panel of 21 judges represented academics, CEOs and philanthropists.

“Despite these challenging economic times, corporate social responsibility is as important as ever,” CNT Editor-in-Chief Klara Glowczewska said. “The travel industry is on track to generate $7.3 trillion in revenue this year—a number that represents an enormous opportunity to improve our planet, and our World Savers Awards recognize those companies turning that potential into a reality.”

World Savers Awards Methodology: To determine the award finalists and winners, Condé Nast Traveler editors reviewed over 100 applications and narrowed them to 36 finalists. An independent panel of 20 judges, comprised of leaders from the travel industry and non-governmental organizations, rated how applicants exercised social responsibility in 5 key areas: poverty alleviation, cultural and/or environmental preservation, education programs, wildlife conservation, and health initiatives. There were eight categories of travel company: small hotel chains, large hotel chains, city hotels, small lodges and resorts, large lodges and resorts, tour operators, cruise lines and airlines. This year judges also looked at overall scores, to give credit to companies with admirable programs in a number of areas.

About Ecoventura: Ecoventura is a family-owned company based in Guayaquil, Ecuador, with sales offices in Quito and Miami. In operation since 1990, the cruise company transports 4,000+ passengers annually aboard a fleet of three expedition vessels; identical, superior first-class 20-passenger motor yachts with 10 double cabins. The company also operates the Sky Dancer, a 16-passenger dedicated dive live-aboard offering 7-night weekly itineraries visiting the northern islands of Wolf and Darwin. All of its vessels have been purposefully retrofitted to meet or exceed the highest possible environmental standards.

To reserve a cabin or private charter, or to receive a copy of Ecoventura’s 2009-2010 catalog please call toll-free 1.800.644.7972, or e-mail info@galapagosnetwork.com. To access current rates, schedules and itineraries you can log onto http://www.ecoventura.com/

The Grace was originally commissioned one year before the Wall Street Crash of 1929, during the Great Gatsby era, and built by Camper & Nicholson in Southampton, England. Monica, as she was originally named, features a stellar past. After serving as the personal yacht of high powered industrialists, including Sir George Tilley, chairman of the Prudential Insurance Co., she was conscripted into the British Navy during WWII. Commissioned as Rion, she took part in Dunkirk, captured a German torpedo E-boat and had an unconfirmed sinking of a U-boat to her credit. Winston Churchill is purported to have cruised the Mediterranean aboard her after the war. In 1951 she was acquired by a company owned by Aristotle Onassis, who renamed her Arion. Onassis gave the yacht as a wedding gift to Prince Rainier III of Monaco and his bride, Hollywood film legend Grace Kelly, who rechristened her Deo Juvante II in time to honeymoon aboard her. Quasar has renamed the yacht Grace to recapture this
magical time when she delivered the royal couple to Monaco and took them on their honeymoon, which is documented in a newsreel available on YoutubeT at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZxjNmR1SVo

When Quasar pioneered its small group cruises 23 years ago, the typical visitor simply wanted to have an up-close, in-depth and personal experience of the unique, exotic and friendly Galapagos creatures in their natural habitat. Thankfully that has not changed but, the importance of choosing the right yacht to compliment the cruise has, as travelers have sought a better boat with more amenities. While other yachts like Quasar’s Alta and Evolution have made a name for themselves in the Galapagos, Grace is the first vessel to arrive with such impressive credentials. Grace raises the bar higher with its notoriety, spaciousness and service levels.

The company plans to promote the yacht through its wholesalers, and direct to the public at www.quasarexpeditions.com and via a new URL www.gracegalapagos.com

The official launch of the yacht in the Galapagos this month coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Galapagos National Park. 2009 also marks the bicentennial of Charles Darwin, whose field work in the islands led to his writing of On the Origin of Species and his theory of evolution.

For more information about rates and trip options, contact Thomson Family Adventures at 800-262-6255, or visit www.familyadventures.com