Why the Mary Anne Delivers the Only Authentic Sailing Experience Following Darwin’s Footsteps
Revolutionary Authentic Sailing Heritage on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
The Mary Anne stands as the only fully-rigged 3-masted schooner in the Galápagos Islands, providing the ultimate authentic sailing experience that follows exactly in Charles Darwin’s footsteps by navigating the archipelago under sail as he did nearly two centuries ago. The Mary Anne represents Premium Galápagos Cruises, offering authentic sailing experiences, romantic heritage ambiance, and unique nautical adventures at premium pricing for travelers who appreciate maritime traditions, genuine sailing capabilities, and historic connections while prioritizing wildlife encounters and authentic exploration. Launched in 1997 as an elegant 216-foot barquentine, this vessel accommodates 16 guests across twelve cabins while being the only ship in the Galápagos capable of navigating by wind power alone.
Unmatched Sailing Capabilities and Maritime Excellence on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
What distinguishes the Mary Anne is her extraordinary 1,000 square meters of canvas sails that enable genuine navigation without engine support, creating peaceful journeys without engine noise that actually attract whales and dolphins to swim alongside the ship. The imposing 3-masted design provides authentic nautical experiences where passengers can help hoist sails when the captain calls “Hoist the sails!” or simply watch the crew work from comfortable deck loungers. This represents the only authentic sailing experience available in Galápagos waters, creating memories that motor yachts simply cannot replicate.
Exceptional Space and Single Traveler Excellence on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
The Mary Anne was originally designed for 24 passengers but accommodates only 16 guests, creating exceptional space and comfort that eliminates any feeling of being crowded or shoehorned. Most remarkably, she carries eight cabins dedicated to single occupancy with absolutely no supplement, making her the perfect choice for solo travelers seeking authentic sailing adventures. This unique single cabin availability without surcharges represents unmatched value for individual explorers wanting premium sailing experiences without penalty pricing.
Comprehensive Sailing Itinerary Portfolio on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
Western Galápagos Sailing Adventure (8 Days): This route explores Fernandina, the most pristine island on the planet, plus the far side of Isabela with imposing shield volcanoes and abundant sea life nurtured by the Cromwell current, providing access to the most untouched wilderness regions while under sail.
Eastern Galápagos Sailing Discovery (8 Days): This route focuses on older islands like Española and Genovesa where guests marvel at otherworldly landscapes and unique creatures that exist nowhere else on Earth, offering comprehensive educational experiences about endemic species evolution.
Complete Sailing Experience (15 Days): This ultimate adventure combines both routes for comprehensive archipelago coverage under sail, perfect for travelers seeking the most thorough possible authentic sailing exploration of these remarkable islands.
Both routes feature week-long experiences that eliminate embarkation/disembarkation delays, creating more intimate and hassle-free adventures while maximizing sailing time and wildlife encounters.
The price ranges $450-660 a day but for most accurate information send us an inquiry for the latest price as well as we provide with free consultation os selection your perfect Galapagos cruise.
Beautiful Cabin Design and Motion Comfort on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
All cabins are located below the main deck, making the Mary Anne an excellent choice for guests who experience motion sensitivity, as the lower position minimizes any movement sensation. Each cabin features beautiful appointments with light and airy modern décor complementing gorgeous wooden fixtures and fittings, traditional porthole windows, en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, fans, and uniquely both 220V European and 110V North American electrical outlets. Ample storage includes wardrobes, closets, nightstands, and reading lamps that complete cozy atmospheres.
Outstanding Social Areas and Maritime Ambiance on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
The Mary Anne features wonderful social areas including the delightful wood-paneled lounge and bar with four lovely U-shaped sofas and tables perfect for relaxing and sharing Galápagos adventure stories while watching sea and islands pass through large windows. The library and entertainment center provide perfect venues for downtime and daily naturalist briefings, while the outdoor dining area at the stern offers magnificent meals with ocean views. The sundeck represents perhaps the best in the entire Galápagos fleet – on the main deck of a wonderful sailing ship under equatorial sun.
Exceptional Culinary Excellence and Maritime Dining on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
The skilled chef takes particular pride in preparing signature dishes like Ceviche de Palometa, a simple-looking dish that consistently surprises passengers with amazing flavors and delightful reactions. Wonderful international and local dishes are served in indoor dining rooms when conditions require or al fresco at the stern when weather permits. The maritime dining experience combines excellent cuisine with authentic sailing ambiance that creates truly memorable meal experiences.
Authentic Maritime Heritage and Family Legacy on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
Owned by one of the original colonizing families of the Galápagos, the Mary Anne represents over 30 years of cruise industry heritage with crew members who are extremely proud of their ship and islands. This authentic family connection ensures crews do everything possible to create unforgettable experiences while maintaining the maritime traditions that made these islands accessible to explorers, scientists, and now tourists. The captain explained: “Mary Anne is my favorite ship in Galápagos island for one simple reason: the sensation of guiding her with full sails on a sunny afternoon reminds me of why I chose this profession in the first place.”
Outstanding Guest Experience and Maritime Recognition on the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
Mary Anne guests consistently highlight the transformative impact of authentic sailing experiences and romantic maritime heritage. Natasha from Ireland shared: “Snorkeling with penguins and sharks, seeing flamingoes, eating amazing food and the great group of people on the tour.” Dawn from the United Kingdom noted: “Visiting the Galapagos is the most extraordinary experience. We snorkeled 1-2 times a day, swimming with penguins, sealions, sharks, giant turtles, rays, and all kinds of beautiful fish.” The combination of authentic sailing capabilities and comprehensive wildlife encounters creates experiences that exceed expectations while honoring maritime traditions.
Perfect Match for the Mary Anne Galapagos Cruise
Ideal travelers: Sailing enthusiasts who want authentic wind-powered navigation experiences, romantic heritage lovers appreciating 3-masted schooner elegance, single travelers seeking premium accommodations without supplements, maritime history enthusiasts wanting to follow Darwin’s exact route, motion-sensitive guests preferring lower deck stability, and adventure seekers wanting to participate in sail-hoisting activities.
Reserve Your Authentic Sailing Adventure
Ready for Ultimate Maritime Excellence? The Mary Anne’s unique authentic sailing capabilities, romantic heritage design, and exceptional single traveler accommodations make her perfect for travelers seeking genuine maritime adventures with historic connections, but her intimate 16-guest capacity and outstanding reputation mean availability books far in advance during all seasons. Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the only authentic sailing vessel in Galápagos waters.
Secure your authentic sailing adventure with expert guidance. Contact me and my expert Ecuadorian partners to explore which Mary Anne sailing itinerary delivers the perfect combination of authentic maritime experience, romantic heritage, and comprehensive wildlife encounters for your transformative sailing adventure. Fill out this form. No obligation, just expert guidance from people who understand both maritime excellence and extraordinary archipelago exploration. Get free Galapagos Cruise consultation from local people.