Sustainable travel aboard Santa Cruz II Galapagos Cruise

Sustainable travel aboard Santa Cruz II Galapagos Cruise

Why is sustainable travel important?

As individuals, families, or even companies, we can make a difference when it comes to climate change. We can prevent the continual environmental damage done by humans. All we have to do is be responsible for our actions and create a positive change. Aboard the Santa Cruz II, along with all our partners, we do everything we can to have a positive impact. But how do we do that?

The crew of the Santa Cruz II is committed to providing a carbon-neutral service. To be carbon neutral means that our carbon emissions, or amount of carbon dioxide byproducts produced, are equal to or less than our carbon removal practices. Our technology and every minute practice aboard the ship and regarding its maintenance is carefully managed to reduce the impact that the Santa Cruz II has on the environment and to maximize our sustainable travel efforts

What is climate change and how do we deal with it?

Galapagos Islands sunset

Greenhouse Gases
(The Greenhouse Effect)

A greenhouse gas is any gas, such as carbon dioxide, methane, or nitrous oxide that can get stuck in Earth’s atmosphere. Although these gases have always existed, their presence has increased significantly through deforestation, the burning of fossil fuels, and agricultural activities. Given this, the greenhouse effect occurs when the sun heats those gases that have accumulated in the atmosphere. These cause the Earth’s temperature to rise, thus bringing about climate change.

Couple in the Galapagos Islands

What can be done about it?

Mother Nature has provided us with the means to transform one very important greenhouse gas, CO2, into oxygen: trees! Some of the effects of excess greenhouse gases and related climate change can be reversed if we continue to preserve and expand our forests. This process is the mechanism for capturing excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In order to make this happen, humans need to stop doing away with vital forest lands for purposes of development, logging, agriculture, and other activities. In this sense, replanting forests is key to the Earth’s survival. And by investing in these sorts of projects, we can be part of the solution.

What is a carbon footprint and how do we reduce it?

Your carbon footprint is measured by how many carbon emissions you have versus carbon removals. The fewer the number of carbon emissions the smaller your carbon footprint will be. The carbon footprint can be measured for an individual, family, or company.

Onboard the Santa Cruz II, we have modified every element to ensure that our carbon emissions remain as low as possible. By using modern engine technology, we can reduce our fuel consumption. The ship has its very own water desalination and treatment plants to protect the Galapagos’ crystal-clear waters. We also integrate energy-saving appliances and recycling as part of every trip. Every effort is made to ensure the Santa Cruz II is a positive presence in the Galapagos archipelago.

Snorkeling with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands

Carbon Neutral Sustainable Travel

To be carbon neutral means that the carbon emissions you generate are equal to or less than the number of carbon removals. That’s why we participate in replanting and other carbon removal projects all over Ecuador to help eliminate excess carbon from the atmosphere. And the good news is that it doesn’t only help Ecuador, it helps the entire Earth, too.

Marine iguanas from the Galapagos Islands

Examples of CO2 Emission Reduction and Carbon Offsetting

Our partners, such as Metropolitan Touring, share our passion for the environment. They follow carbon-reducing measures, such as using solar or wind power, utilizing energy-saving appliances, and participating in carbon-offsetting projects. Additionally, the Santa Cruz II utilizes a special paint for coating the hull and bow that is safe for the environment and that is highly effective in reducing friction and drag, thereby increasing fuel efficiency.

Calculating the Carbon Footprint generated by our explorers aboard the Santa Cruz II

In general, the carbon footprint per individual on a two-week trip is around USD 30.00, including everything from the number of flights you take to your trip in the Galapagos itself. Of course, your carbon footprint will vary depending on what types of activities you undertake and the length of your cruise.

Tons of CO2 Emitted Offsetting Price in USD
Quito-Galapagos-Quito flight 0.520 $8.32
7-day, 6-night expedition cruise in Galapagos 0.830 $13.28
Transfer In 0.013 $0.21
Transfer Out 0.013 $0.21
Booking and Administrative/Back Office 0.100 $1.60
Total Offset Cost per passenger 1.476 USD $23.62

Ecologically Conscious Travel

Make your visit to one of the most remarkable destinations on the planet a truly unforgettable experience, while doing something positive for the environment.