Conservation

Choose the Conservation to know you’re supporting a forward-thinking small ship. Benefits are near-silent navigations and anchoring getting you closer to the wilderness experience you came for. Think calm anchorages, peaceful nights aboard and less disruption to wildlife. The Conservation yacht is dedicated to doing more to preserve the beauty of the Galapagos. This ship is uniquely only open to adult passengers. Plus, with a cruising speed of 16 knots, the M/Y Conservation is designed to maximize time spent on visitor sites. Her agility allows guests to get off the beaten path to access and explore the best and most hard-to-reach places in the Galapagos.

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AdventureSmith Explorations has our finger on the pulse of what’s new for Galapagos 2027 cruises, and will continue to update this page as more details, photos and a deck plan become available for this ship. Contact our Galapagos cruise experts to compare the Conservation with other small cruise ships, yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises.

Sustainability Aboard Conservation

Built and designed in Italy by one of the oldest builders of luxury motor yachts in the world, this Benetti yacht celebrates the future and pays tribute to the past. M/Y Conservation is expected to be the most eco-friendly yacht sailing the Galapagos when its launched. The modernization of an existing vessel is less resource intensive, as well as the core foundation of its hybrid propulsion.

The conversion from conventional combustion engines to hybrid-electric propulsion will allow guests on board the 173-foot vessel to experience quiet, comfortable and low-emission sailing in one of the world’s most sensitive biosphere reserves. The yacht in turn will burn 30% less fuel than standard yachts in the Galapagos, keep 60 vehicles off the road each year.

Conservation’s innovative hybrid-electric propulsion system allows the vessel to operate entirely on battery power during anchor and short crossings. The conversion of the ship’s engine was a true labor of love in partnership with ABB, a global technology leader in electrification and automation. The concept combines an ABB Onboard DC Grid™ power system platform, energy storage system, permanent magnet propulsion motors and modern diesel gensets to help the engine remain future proof for cleaner sources.

This not only minimizes fuel consumption but also exceeds compliance with the Galápagos National Park’s strict noise and emission regulations. Guests aboard will benefit from a carefully selected crew trained for and dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, along with biodegradable amenities and no single-use, disposable plastics aboard. Any carbon emissions will be offset through the Carbon Fund.

Research & Community Aboard Conservation

Conservation hosts two to three scientists, conservationists and volunteers on board, whose initiatives include conducting projects and engaging with guests to support their strategies. Using the tourism operating model, the Conservation yacht helps fund sustainable conservation initiatives by partnering with nonprofit organizations that implement strategic conservation projects in the Galapagos National Park. Together, they are setting the stage for future progress in research and sustainability.

Because developing and building awareness among the Galapagos community is crucial for long-term conservation efforts, the Conservation, along with her crew, captain and staff, advocate for economic, social and environmental conservation in the Galapagos. Her name implores her commitment to the Galapagos community, both human and animal alike. Collaborating with nonprofit partners and organizations deepens the impact and is key to protecting, conserving and restoring the Galapagos archipelago.

Common Areas Aboard Conservation

Conservation is expected to have four decks with wide open layouts, offering expansive per-guest space and exclusive accommodations. Two decks have unrivaled 360-degree outdoor corridors, allowing guests to immerse in the archipelago, observe wildlife and indulge in views of the geological formations at all times. With panoramic views through large deck and stateroom windows, Conservation offers unparalleled distribution of privacy, comfort and style. Interiors are designed by Enrique Concha, whose perfectionism, attention to detail and high regard for using sustainable materials is a perfect fit.

Dining Aboard Conservation

Five-star cultural cuisine is served in the dining room or in the spacious al fresco dining area. Never miss a moment to take in the natural surroundings while enjoying a meal in the Galapagos.