New Expedition Vessel Turns Heads in the Galapagos

As far a maiden voyages go, spending your first month at sea cruising the Galapagos Islands isn’t bad at all. The latests vessel from Peregrine Adventures, Grand Queen Beatriz, embarked on her maiden voyage on July 1st and immediately became one of the most environmentally friendly ships at sea.

For Grand Queen Beatriz, her maiden voyage came as part of Peregrine Adventure’s 10-day Classic Galapagos and six-day Galapagos Encounter, where passengers had the chance to channel their inner Charles Darwin with a day hike on Bartolome, iguana and sea lion observation at Plaza Sur and Santa Fe, and even an run in with an ancient giant tortoise at San Cristobal.

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A Cruise to the Galapagos

Onboard Grand Queen Beatriz | Photo: Peregrine Adventures

General Manager of Peregrine Adventures, Filippos Venetopoulos, outlined what the new ship meant for the guest experience. 

“While we have been cruising the Galapagos for more than 20 years, now that we have our own boat, we can offer an even more authentic Peregrine experience at sea; a small group of no more than 16 guests, an immersive experience focusing on discovery and education, comfort and space, insightful and attentive guides and the newest and most sustainable cruise experience available in the region,” he said.

Grand Queen Beatriz is an adventure ship, meaning a smaller size, but offering a more up close and personal look at life in some of the world’s most exotic locales. All nine staterooms on board feature outward-facing windows, most spacious bathrooms, and are spread over three decks with separate communal areas, for a little extra space and privacy. The 300-ton vessel also features a main dining room, two bars, a lounge and TV area, and a sun deck with a jacuzzi.

Sustainability Aboard Peregrine Adventures

Despite all the luxury amenities, it’s the environmental impact of Grand Queen Beatriz that has many in the cruise industry talking. Peregrine Adventures prides themselves on being a carbon-neutral company, meaning they do everything possible to reduce their environmental impact while cruising. They do this through features like solar panels on board, fuel-efficient engines, locally sourced building materials during construction and a push for reducing the use of single-use plastics.