Anyone been on Danubio Azul to the Galapagos?

[SFuterfas]

We're looking at liveaboards for this June and noticed the Danubio Azul is much cheaper than the other operations. Do you get what you pay for or is it a good operation? Our only other liveaboard experience was the Nautilus Explorer for the Great White Shark dive at Guadalupe Island, which was pretty nice.

 

[dogengine]

We were looking at this boat as well. It seems to be impossible to find an actual review anywhere... I don't suppose you have had any feedback on your query yet?

 

[SFuterfas]

Nope. I haven't found any info on it. Hopefully someone will reply soon.

 

[dogengine]

We have tentatively booked this September 18th for a week long dive trip. Have not heard back yet if it is confirmed, I am guessing due to their minimum 6 people booked per trip.... we shall see.

 

[DiveTheGalapagos]

It is like a tourist class boat though cabins do have private heads. It has no enclosed salon or dining. When the weather is cold or rainy, they drop plastic siding to enclose. If you are comfortable traveling in a hostal rather than a hotel, it could be for you. There is a website with photos: M/Y Danubio Azul

 

[svazquez]

dogengine,

Did you actually send funds to the company? If so, was it via wire transfer? We are looking into booking M/Y Danubio Azul in October of this year and the Millenium the week before and they are requesting funds be sent via wire transfer. I believe this is common for the Galapagos, however, it makes me nervous transferring that much money without any assurances. The company we are planning on booking through for both boats is Galapagos Experience (galapagosexperience.net)

DiveTheGalapagos, any input or advice?

 

[DiveTheGalapagos]

You could have booked with us.

 

[svazquez]

You could have booked with us.

Well... if this doesn't work out then I will definitely contact you! We were also looking at The Humboldt and Nortada as possibilities. Is the wire transfer thing common?

 

[dogengine]

We booked through liveaboard.com and used credit card. I have used them before with no issue. I have actually never sent a wire transfer in my life. sorry. not much help.

 

[Life]

Has anyone done a trip on the Danubio Azul? I'm keen to try a budget option.