Yacht Isabela II Receives the Designer Treatment

Yacht Isabela II Receives the Designer Treatment
Metropolitan Touring's beautiful Yacht Isabela II recently began touring the Galapagos again following a period in dry dock being refurbished by the Ecuadorian designer Diego Arteta. Diego is known for his stunning work on both Mashpi Lodge, located deep in the cloudforest of the Ecuadorian Andes and Casa Gangotena in Quito. Both properties were launched in 2011, with his work on Mashpi Lodge winning the Wallpaper design award.

Refurbished in a palate of cool whites, greys and jade, the interior of Isabella II will have a calm and stylish feel to it. The onboard library, crucial for an expedition vessel, is also being redesigned. It will feature two computers and a wide array of reference literature in an elegant and peaceful setting. The deck will be sanded and re-varnished in a darker hue, giving a more traditional appearance to the outside, and a contrast to the lighter, airier colors for the interior.

Able to accommodate 40 guests, Yacht Isabela II is a boutique yacht which has built up a fantastic reputation as one of the best ways to tour The Galapagos. There is a strong sense of expedition culture on board, with expert naturalist guides who are famed for their knowledge of these celebrated islands. Her itineraries are among the best of any vessel; taking in the Southern, Northern and Central islands, making her one of the most popular expedition yachts. She offers three types of itinerary, ranging from six to four nights on board, with varying departure days.

The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands which lie 600 miles west of the South American continent. Home to almost 9,000 species, they are one of the world's greatest natural history destinations. Metropolitan Touring began operating in The Galapagos more than 40 years ago, giving them unrivalled experience. Their guides and naturalists have extensive knowledge of the islands, and tangible passion for what they do.

For more information on the yacht, see www.isabelagalapagoscruise.com

Cruises onboard Yacht Isabela II start from $2,808 per person for a 5-day/4-night itinerary, which includes all guiding, meals and snorkelling equipment.