Santa Cruz II

On board the Santa Cruz II, single-use plastics are not used, instead, alternative, environmentally friendly materials are employed. The restaurants offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with ingredients and food sourced from local suppliers. Furthermore, food waste on board has been significantly reduced.

The ship uses advanced technologies to reduce emissions and does not use heavy fuel oil.

During the expeditions, experts give talks on environmental protection, climate change and microplastic pollution in the oceans.

HX Expeditions is also a co-founder of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). These organisations are working to establish sustainable tourism in the polar regions and to combat mass tourism.

On board the Santa Cruz II, you can choose from a range of modern and comfortably furnished staterooms, all of which are equipped with a double bed, a television, a bathroom with shower and toiletries, a safe, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Bathrobes and slippers are available on request.

The Explorer staterooms measure approximately 14–17.2 sqm. For more space and added comfort, there are the Darwin Suites, which measure approximately 30.3 sqm.

All suites are also fitted with two large windows and a sofa bed. Guests staying in the suites receive a welcome gift on arrival in the form of a book about the wildlife of the Galápagos.

On board the Santa Cruz II, the focus is on experiencing the unique natural environment and wildlife of the Galápagos Islands to the full. Thanks to the ship’s intimate size, you will enjoy a friendly, family-like atmosphere characterised by peace, relaxation and a pleasant sense of community.

On board the Santa Cruz II, you can look forward to varied and exceptional menus featuring ingredients from the regions you will be visiting.

The following restaurant is included in the price:

• Beagle: This restaurant combines a lively South American atmosphere with sophisticated international cuisine. Here, you will be treated to a culinary experience by a highly skilled kitchen team who use locally sourced organic produce in the preparation of all their dishes.

In the Panorama Lounge & Bar, with direct access to the outdoor terrace, enjoy delicious cocktails whilst chatting with your fellow travellers about the day’s events, listening to interesting talks or marvelling at the passing landscape.

On board, there is a gym equipped with yoga mats, weights, two treadmills, two exercise bikes and an elliptical trainer. If you wish, you can maintain your exercise routine here during the voyage. There are also two hot tubs on board, each of which can accommodate five guests.

The Expedition Lounge, complete with a library and Science Centre, provides the perfect learning space for scientific activities. It features a glass display cabinet, a microscope and several bone models.

Children are welcome on board, subject to the following rules:

- For expedition cruises to Antarctica and South Georgia, the minimum age is 5 years.
- For safety reasons, the captain decides whether children under the age of 12 may take part in excursions.

There is no childcare, no kids club and no special entertainment program on board the Santa Cruz II.

HX Expeditions offers a wide and varied range of shore excursions and activities during its cruises, including, for example, walks or rides on the expedition boat.

In many of the ports of call, guests can take part in an excursion that can be booked at no extra cost. Some of these excursions can be combined with other optional excursions (for a fee) available in the port.

Most excursions can be booked in advance, but can also be booked on board, provided there are still places available. We recommend booking in advance to secure a place on the activities and excursions of your choice.

Unless otherwise stated, the excursions are led by English-speaking tour guides and accompanied by a professional on-board photographer who will capture the finest moments of your journey for you.

Please note that excursions are subject to change at short notice and may be cancelled due to weather conditions.

For maximum comfort, any necessary equipment can be borrowed on board (subject to availability). You will also receive your own complimentary wind- and rain-resistant expedition jacket, as well as a refillable water bottle, which you are welcome to take home as a souvenir of your trip.

The Santa Cruz II is the ideal ship for explorers and travellers who enjoy discovering new regions, broadening their horizons and who value a personalised travel experience. The expedition cruises for example, to the Galápagos Islands, are always a highlight and an unforgettable experience.