Guillermo Lasso the President of Ecuador signed today an executive decree formally establishing the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The order was signed by President Lasso during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Puerto Ayora. The Presidency of Ecuador hosted a celebratory lunch. It was followed by a meal on board the Galapagos legend, our flagship that navigates the Galapagos Islands offering 4, 5 and 8 day cruise itineraries. The ship is anchored off Santa Cruz Island in the heart of Galapagos archipelago. The ceremony was attended by Ivan Duque (Colombia's President) and Bill Clinton (ex-US president), to underscore the importance of the occasion.
The new decree increases the protected marine areas in the Galapagos by 60,000 km, which adds to the reserve of 138,000 km. The decree establishes a maritime migration corridor between the Galapagos Islands and the Costa Rican Isla del Coco. This allows endangered species such as turtles, sharks, manta rays, and whales to safely travel. The expansion will ensure that the Galapagos Islands remain one of the largest marine reserves in the world.
The Galapagos Islands offer a rare habitat rich in biodiversity. Over 3,000 species are found in the territory, with 600 of them only here. This expansion will secure one of the most important migratory "highways" for marine wildlife in the world. This means there is more space than ever to protect these incredible creatures," said Emil Klein, CEO of the Galapagos Legend and host of the event. "Now, we can responsibly share this beautiful natural environment with visitors coming from all around the globe."
The Galapagos Legend expedition cruise ship operation, is committed to eco-tourism and sharing with visitors the beautiful Galapagos Islands. To ensure that the Galapagos Islands are visited in an environmentally responsible manner, the company collaborates with the Galapagos National Park Service. Alexis Alvarez (Head of International Sales) states that every detail onboard our ships has been designed to minimize environmental impact. Our vessels have been certified to meet the highest standards of environmental practices, both national and international. All our vessels have state-of the-art technology in key areas like waste management, water treatment and energy consumption.
Marine conservationists and species who call the area around the Galapagos Islands their home are ecstatic about the expanded GMR. This is a significant win for tour operators that promote eco-friendly tourism to the islands. Juan Magallanes who was also invited to this important event, Galapagos Travel Advisor CEO a GSA for the Galapagos Legend, stated that the expanded GMR will ensure the survival of endangered migratory birds. This will allow us to continue sharing the magic of Galapagos Islands responsibly for many years to come.
Galapagos Legend cruise routes that travel between islands in the archipelago:
7 Night Galapagos Legend East and Central Islands cruise
7 Night Galapagos Legend West and North Islands cruise
Galapagos Travel Advisor is one of the GSA of the Galapagos Legend and main booking agent for the ship. Galapagos Travel Advisor has been taking people on journeys to some of the most beautiful natural environments on Earth for more than 18 years. Our eco-luxury tours combine local knowledge with top-class amenities in the Galapagos Islands, Peru and other destinations in Ecuador and South America. We are committed to eco-friendly tourism and have the vessels, itineraries and knowledge to make your Galapagos trip effortless and unforgettable. To experience the natural wonders of the Galapagos on board the Galapagos Legend, please visit https://www.