The suite spot: The first ultra-luxury superyacht based in the Galápagos

Cruising the Galápagos has never been so luxurious. Step on board Hermes, the cruising catamaran that adds a new level of luxury to exploration in Ecuador’s most famous islands - where every guest suite feels like a master, and every detail is designed for both adventure and indulgence.

There are yachts, and then there is Hermes. A true original in every sense, Hermes is the first ultra-luxury cruising superyacht to be permanently based in the Galápagos. Measuring 50 metres in length with an impressive 14-metre beam, she is one of the largest cruising catamarans in the world, and she uses every inch of space to create a truly exceptional guest experience.

While most superyachts focus their attention on one or two standout suites, Hermes is different. Every one of her 11 suites offers the kind of luxury normally reserved for owners’ suites, with private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, ocean-facing Jacuzzi baths and even a personal butler. Every suite also has its own Bluetooth system, and each bathroom has a window frost system for privacy. The result is an ultra-exclusive experience where every guest feels like royalty. The amenities enrich the whole Galápagos expedition experience, offering the perfect floating sanctuary from which to explore it all.

The suite life

Wake up to the gentle sound of the sea and golden light pouring in through vast windows. On Hermes, mornings are slow and considered. Perhaps you’ll order breakfast on your balcony – fresh tropical fruit, Ecuadorian coffee, eggs just how you like them – and soak in your Jacuzzi bath as albatrosses soar past your deck.

Each of Hermes’ 11 guest suites has been designed to maximise light, space and comfort. At 35 square metres, the double or twin suites are larger than most city hotel rooms, and all can convert to your preferred bed configuration. The owners’ suite of 70 square metres includes a spacious bedroom and lounge area. There are even two single suites tailored for solo travellers.

Double or twin suites include walk-in wardrobes, his-and-hers basins, motorised blackout curtains, air-conditioning, a pillow menu and a phone system that connects directly to your butler. Need help unpacking? That’s taken care of too.

A yacht designed for exploration

Activities on Hermes begin in the two onboard briefing areas. Having two allows the group to split into smaller excursion parties, ideal for tailoring activities to personal interests or running presentations in multiple languages.

When it’s time to head out, the yacht’s two expert naturalist guides are your gateway to the islands’ secrets, whether it’s observing giant tortoises in Santa Cruz, snorkelling with sea lions off Española or getting involved in a local reforestation programme.

During your cruise, you can explore a range of local wonders, including Rábida, Bartolomé and the lesser-known, but equally breathtaking, Floreana and South Plaza, with private transport to and from the vessel and tailor-made itineraries.

Prefer to stay on board? With the sun-drenched sundeck Jacuzzi, there’s no shortage of places to chill out. Positioned on the foredeck, the observation lounge is where nature takes centre stage. With panoramic views and a front-row seat to the dramatic island coastlines, it’s the perfect spot for wildlife-watching, photography or simply marvelling at the ever-changing landscape. Guests often gather here at dawn or dusk, when wildlife is most active and the light most magical. For water lovers, Hermes carries kayaks, paddleboards, snorkelling gear and wetsuits.

Restoration and reconnection

Exploring the Galápagos can be thrilling but also tiring. Thankfully, Hermes offers every opportunity to restore and recharge in complete comfort. Step into the onboard spa, where a private massage room and hammam invite deep relaxation after a day of hiking or diving. Alternatively, the onboard library is full of literature on the Galápagos, travel, lifestyle, art and architecture as well. The gym, meanwhile, is available for a weights session, and yoga can be practiced on the sundeck.

When the sun sets, that’s when Hermes comes into her own. Sip a chilled cocktail on the upper deck aft before sitting down to a fine-dining experience curated by the yacht’s acclaimed Ecuadorian chef. The menu celebrates the region’s bounty – think scorpionfish ceviche, locally grown plantains crisped to perfection and tropical fruit desserts, all served in a flexible dining space that can be set up for intimate dinners or large group gatherings. After dinner, guests might gather in the observation lounge for a stargazing session and the onboard bar for a final nightcap.

Need something a little more personal? A special anniversary dinner on your private balcony? Spa appointments coordinated by the butler? With 19 crew members on board – a nearly one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio – no request is too much trouble. It’s the crew that truly transforms the Hermes experience, from the butlers who remember how you take your morning coffee to the guides who tailor each excursion to your interests.

Whether you’re snorkelling, hiking, paddleboarding or simply watching the world go by from your private Jacuzzi, Hermes offers an ultra-luxury floating experience from which to enjoy the wonders of the Galápagos.

Book your Hermes experience at Via Natura or Pelorus Yachting.

Sponsored content created for Via Natura