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CORMORANT II FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about Cormorant II Galapagos Cruises - call 1300 799 758

Below is a list of Cormorant II FAQs, or Frequently Asked Questions for people looking to cruise to the Galapagos Islands.

Please note: this is general information that should be used as a guide and may change without notice.  

Frequently Asked Questions - Click on the '+' sign to read answers

1. What makes the Cormorant II unique?

Cormorant II is unique in the Galápagos market because it’s a modern luxury catamaran designed specifically for boutique expedition cruising: very stable at sea, eco-minded, built (2023) to carry a small group of guests (≈13–16), with generous indoor/outdoor spaces (Jacuzzi and sun deck), private balcony cabins, and an intimate service model that focuses on personalised guided landings and snorkel/diving experiences.

  • Layout & capacity: Cormorant II typically carries 13–16 guests and offers 8 private cabins / suites across main and upper decks — many sources show all or most cabins with private balconies and panoramic windows.

  • Sizes & features: Cabins range from spacious twin/double suites to premium suites (some listings note very large premium suites). Expect ensuite bathrooms, hot water, climate control (AC), safes, 110/220V outlets and wardrobe/storage. Several operators publish detailed deck plans showing main deck suites and upper-deck premium suites.

  • Vibe: Luxury-boutique rather than mega-ship — roomy private cabins with modern finishes and outdoor lounge space on decks.

  • Guided naturalist landings on Galápagos visitor sites led by certified naturalist guides (Galápagos National Park rules apply). Snorkelling and optional diving at key marine sites; equipment and tenders for water access; many itineraries emphasise snorkeling and scuba options.

  • Onboard leisure & wellness: sun deck with Jacuzzi, lounge/bar, observation areas and often a small gym/spa area on the upper deck depending on the specific fit-out.

  • Small-group, personalised adventure: small passenger counts mean more flexible schedules, quieter shore visits and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

  • Meals included: Most Cormorant II packages include buffet and plated meals — breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared by an onboard chef. Fresh produce, grilled fish and Ecuadorian/ international cuisine are common. 

  • Dietary needs: Vegetarian, gluten-free or special diets can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

  • Beverages & extras: Water, coffee/tea and some non-alcoholic drinks are normally included; alcoholic beverages and premium drinks may be extra depending on the operator — check your package details.

Pack for tropical sun, salty spray and daytime activity plus cooler sea breezes:

  • Quick-dry shirts, shorts and light long-sleeve sun shirts (rash guards).

  • Swimwear + wetsuit or shorty if you snorkel/dive in cooler currents.

  • Light jacket or fleece for mornings/evenings.

  • Sturdy walking shoes for rocky landings and a pair of water shoes or sandals.

  • Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, polarized sunglasses, lip balm with SPF.

  • Waterproof/dry bag, binoculars, camera with waterproof housing and extra batteries.

  • Casual smart outfit for dinners — dress code is relaxed-elegant on most boats.

The Galápagos is a top wildlife destination — on a Cormorant II cruise expect both marine and terrestrial species:

  • Marine: sea lions, manta rays, whale sharks (seasonal), Galápagos sharks, sea turtles, reef fish, and abundant snorkeling life.

  • Birds & land animals: blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins (in certain islands), marine iguanas, and giant tortoises (highland sites).

  • Seasonality & hotspots: specific species sightings depend on islands visited (Darwin & Wolf for big pelagics; Isabela/North Seymour for boobies and iguanas). Your naturalist guide will target best viewing sites per itinerary.

  • Daily shore landings to national park visitor sites with a certified guide.

  • Snorkeling from tenders (gear provided by many operators).

  • Kayaking and small-boat excursions where itinerary and sea conditions permit.

  • Scuba diving on selected departures (check whether the cruise is a dive-focused itinerary).

  • Itinerary variability: The captain and guides will adjust landings/dive sites for wildlife, safety and park regulations. Confirm exact included excursions with your booking agent.

Medical coverage varies by operator. Many Galápagos expedition yachts have crew trained in first aid and basic medical kits; some vessels carry a designated medical officer or have arrangements for rapid evacuation to island medical facilities if needed. Cormorant II listings highlight safety equipment and crew trained in first aid. Always confirm the ship’s medical staff provisions, onboard medical facilities, and evacuation protocols before you travel.

Typically not. Most Galápagos yacht operators do not include gratuities in the base fare — tipping is customary for guides, the captain and crew. Operators usually publish suggested tipping guidelines (per person, per day) or will provide an envelope for pooled tips at voyage end. Confirm tipping policy with your operator or travel agent.

Yes — but with caveats. Many modern Galápagos yachts (including Cormorant II listings) advertise onboard Wi-Fi for basic connectivity; however:

  • Connection speeds vary and can be limited when the boat is far from mainland or in remote islands (satellite links are used).

  • Best practice: download maps, reading or streaming media before you sail; expect Wi-Fi good for email, messaging and photo uploads but not reliable for high-bandwidth streaming during remote legs.

The Cormorant II FAQs section provides you with some of the most commonly asked questions that guests ask. We have tried to provide appropriate answers to these many questions and have listed them above as well. These questions and answers should only be used as a guide only, as facts and circumstances might and do change frequently, which may affect the appropriate answer at the time. 

For more questions and clarifications not listed here in the Cormorant II FAQs, or to make any Galapagos cruises booking enquiry,

Call 1300 799 758 now. 

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