CONSERVATION IN GALAPAGOS

Origin: Advancing Conservation in the Galapagos

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The Galapagos National Park takes pride in advancing the conservation of the unique biodiversity and ecosystem of the Galapagos. Together we pull our resources to fight invasive species, support conservation education for local school children on the need for caring for the islands and saving endangered species. None of these are small projects, but little by little we are making a difference. We are always searching for a new answer to the same question: How can we leave the smallest footprint when we travel?

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The MV Origin is our answer.

We are offering a premium class vessel with locally sourced food, high level of comfort and service and some of the best guides in the Galapagos. It will feature spacious social areas and staterooms, a concierge, library, computer station, Jacuzzi, sun deck with loungers and wet bar for you to enjoy. The best part? It will be one of the most eco-friendly ships in the Galapagos.

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The Origin will take saving water to the next level.

Last year, we stopped using plastic water bottles onboard Ecoventura’s yachts. We now provide our guests with a reusable water bottle while they cruise and encourage them to use them when they return home to continue to support saving water.

Santiago Dunn, Ecoventura’s owner, tells us, “We want to minimize water pollution as much as possible which is why we are outfitting the Origin with a specially designed water treatment plan and ecological toilets, ship-wide. The Origin will not dispose of any untreated greywater or blackwater into the ocean.”

What is Greywater and Blackwater?

Greywater is wastewater that is generated from sinks, showers, baths, dishwashers etc. Blackwater is the discharge of toilets.

The greywater and blackwater will be treated onboard with a treatment plan that will be able to filter more than 10,000 liters per day. The ecological toilets will be found in all of the cabins (guests and crew) and throughout the common areas.

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A Sexy Sleek Design

Our team has worked hard to design one of the most environmentally friendly vessels in the Galapagos. Our goal is to reduce fossil fuel consumption by over 30% from similar ships in the archipelago, which is no easy task!

“The MV Origin is being built with lighter steel and a particular welding technique in order to maintain the grand ship’s size but not sacrifice any quality, comfort or safety,” Dunn stated.

We have designed a curved bow that will allow the Origin to cruise smoother over the waves and increase fuel efficiency with less drag. This will allow the ship to use fuel more efficiently and reduce waste.

The Origin will combine exquisite design, top service and a true understanding of the need for conserving the unique islands and their wildlife.

We are proud to introduce the Origin in February 2016 as it sets sail on its inaugural cruise and paves the way with our eco-friendly yacht. We look forward continuing to make steps toward lessening our footprint while we show our guests what makes the Galapagos so special.