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Kontiki Pacific Coast CruiseKontiki’s 3, 4, 5 and 7-night itineraries, the Spondylus Expedition, reveal the beauty and authenticity of Coastal Ecuador, passing through small, uncrowded towns and historical sites, forests and wetlands, pristine beaches and protected ecological reserves full of wildlife. The itinerary includes daily curated experiences involving nature, exploration, culture, communities, adventure, water activities, yachting lifestyle, farm to table gastronomy and wellness.
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They are very proud to share that they have achieved the Safe Travels accreditation by WTTC (World Travel & Tourism Council) |
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There are now direct flights between Manta and Baltra on Wednesdays and Sundays, making it easy to combine a Galapagos experience with this cruise. We can help you do this. Or we can combine the Kontiki cruise with an experience on the Ecuador mainland. At Kontiki, they work closely with local communities aiming at having a positive impact for them as they do responsible tourism; they create transformational experiences having sustainability as their main focus of business.
Kontiki is the first luxury expedition yacht to be part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World family, an association of over 550 independent boutique hotels in more than 90 countries around the globe. They also hold B Corp Pending Certification, which validates our effort to create a world where business is a force for good, playing a leading role in positively impacting and transforming the global economy into a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative system. Each expedition incorporates exploration, discovery, adventure, and above all a deep connection with the natural surroundings and local people who are the soul of any destination. They have their hearts set in being an instrument to connect worlds through authentic experiences and life reinvention. They search for luxury in the sustainable, in the innovation and in the connection between the spiritual and the material without forgoing tradition. As one recent passenger said: " Our cruise was an action-packed coastal and island exploration. It included a guided hike on pristine Isla de la Plata (sometimes called “Small Galapagos”) to see blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds; a cacao plantation tour where we had a chance to make (and eat) exquisite chocolate; a trip to an ancient village where we participated in a traditional cultural ceremony; and a workshop demonstration by a weaver of traditional toquilla straw hats. On other excursions (reached by small bus), we searched for howler monkeys in a tropical forest and tasted fresh, local cuisine at an innovative culinary school. During the in-between hours, we had opportunities to relax on secluded beaches and play with an extensive array of water toys, including snorkeling gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, Seabobs (for speedy swimming and diving) and a giant waterslide cascading from the Sundeck." The programs are led by 13 experienced crew members committed to providing prime service for an unforgettable stay. Onboard, 2 naturalist guides, a concierge, local chefs, and the crew add to the distinctive Kontiki experience that will let you discover Ecuador’s Coastal region like no one has ever before. They have kayaks on board for those who would like to paddle. Scuba diving can be arranged at extra cost with an outside operator. 4 Days / 3 NightsDAY 1 - THURSDAY Manta / Pacoche / San Lorenzo - Bahía de Caráquez
Transfer from Manta to the Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche. Our first visit is to the tropical humid forest where we will hike through one of its trails to take a look at the community of howling monkeys who live in the middle of its exuberant vegetation. Afterwards, we will go to San Lorenzo, one of the largest nesting spots for marine turtles in Ecuador, if we are lucky, we will get to see baby turtles on their way to the ocean during hatching season.We will enjoy a special gastronomic experience in San Lorenzo using the manabita ancestral oven. After lunch, we will learn about the toquilla straw hat tradition with a local family of weavers from Pile. The small town of Pile is known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest and most expensive Toquilla straw hats in the world. We will be able to see firsthand how the hats are made. Incorrectly known as Panama Hats, the Toquilla Straw Hat was designated in 2012 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World. In the afternoon we will return to the yacht and enjoy some relaxing time and dinner onboard. Sailing to Bahía de Caráquez. Note: The itinerary starts at 2pm. What they can do if you arrive on the 8am flight from Quito, or on Wednesday, is take you to breakfast (not included) and do a short Manta city tour while you wait to embark at 2pm . DAY 2 - FRIDAY Bahía de Caráquez - Jaramijó We start day 2 with breakfast onboard, before departing aboard our dinghies to Puerto Amistad in Bahía de Caráquez, where a land transfer will take us to Iche in San Vicente. A gastronomic lab led by Fuegos Foundation, Iche was founded to educate local chefs in creating ‘haute cuisine' using ancestral techniques of food preparation. A gastronomic farm to table experience hosted by local chefs that will reveal a mix of history, tradition and the unique flavors of coastal cuisine. Cacao, salprieta, corviche, and chillangua are some of the local flavors that will add to our foodies' lexicon. In the afternoon, we will get back to the yacht to relax at the sundeck and later on in the evening guests will enjoy a chocolate tasting and dinner. Sailing to Jaramijó DAY 3 - SATURDAY Jaramijó - Manta We will start our day with a hearty breakfast onboard. Our last day of activities is designed for guests to enjoy the coastline, marine activities and to do some local handcraft shopping. After breakfast we will disembark in the port of Jaramijó and head off to Montecristi, cradle of the Liberalism in Ecuador and an important production center for toquilla handcrafts and home goods. In Montecristi we will visit Ciudad Alfaro, a historic building dedicated to General Eloy Alfaro, one of the most important political figures in the republican era of Ecuador. After this visit to ciudad Alfaro, we will walk around Montecristi and their dozens of little shops featuring toquilla goods, such as tableware, bags, hair accessories, souvenirs, etc. This is a nice opportunity to do some local shopping. We will go back to the yacht for lunch and in the afternoon we will have free time to enjoy marine activities, relax at the hot tub, enjoy some spa treatments, and participate in an onboard cooking class with our chef. Farewell dinner and cocktail onboard. Overnight sailing to Manta. DAY 4 - SUNDAY Manta We will say our goodbyes early in the morning, as your transfer to the airport will be awaiting at Manta’s Port Authority (TPM). Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice. End of services 5 Days / 4 NightsDAY 1 - SUNDAY Manta - Ayangue
Our discovery journey of coastal Ecuador starts in Manta, one of the most important ports in the country and a strategic location for tourism in Manabí. This beach city is internationally known for its fishing industry, whose star product, tuna, is exported all over the world. Our shuttle will take you to Manta’s port authority (TPM), from where we will board M/Y Kontiki Wayra for check-in and a welcome drink. Our concierge will introduce you to our crew members, go over the yacht areas and assign the staterooms that will become home for the next 6 days. In the evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by our executive chef onboard. Overnight sailing to Ayangue. DAY 2 - MONDAY Ayangue - Machalilla National Park We start day 2 at Ayangue, a small coastal town also known as the Pool of the Pacific because of its calm waters. After breakfast onboard, we will depart in one of our tenders to nearby islet El Pelado for a snorkeling expedition. This is a unique opportunity to swim with the local community of sea lions and explore the submarine secrets of the area. From June until October, this also becomes a privileged location to see humpback whales closely. By noon we will return to the yacht for marine activities in the ocean club and lunch onboard. After lunch we will disembark in the beach of Ayangue and after a short beach walk we will arrive to a charming place where we will learn about the Valdivia culture. This is a millenary culture that maintains intact its pottery tradition, inherited from the pre-Inca Valdivia culture (4500 B.C.). We will learn about the techniques and materials used in making ancestral pieces as we make our own handcraft in a beautiful “experience in clay”. We will return to the yacht for dinner. Sailing to Machalilla National Park DAY 3 - TUESDAY Machalilla National Park - Isla de la Plata After a hearty breakfast, we will disembark in Machalilla National Park where a land transfer will take us to Agua Blanca. This small community houses archeological pieces from one of the oldest civilizations in South America, the Manteño Culture, which dates back to the year 1500 A.C. Temples, country houses, typical ancient squares and other archeological remains are some of the treasures in Agua Blanca. A short walk through its forest will show us butterflies, hummingbirds and local trees such as the algarrobos. During our visit, we will celebrate an ancestral ritual of purification and gratitude, that will connect us with nature and with ourselves, accompanied by the guidance of the shamans of the community. Return to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon we will enjoy a private beach experience in the islets of Machalilla National Park and will enjoy diverse marine activities such as snorkel, paddleboard, kayak or swim in our beach club which includes an oceanic pool, a water slide, SeaBobs, etc. We will go back to the yacht to enjoy a beautiful sunset and dinner in the main deck*. Sailing to Isla de la Plata. DAY 4 - WEDNESDAY Isla de la Plata - Pacoche / San Lorenzo After breakfast, we will start our activities with a wet landing in Isla de la Plata, which belongs to Machalilla National Park. Isla de la Plata holds beautiful natural treasures and a walk through its trails will take us to nesting areas of Blue Footed Boobies, Masked Boobies and Frigatebirds. After our land exploration, we will go back to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon we will do a guided underwater snorkeling expedition to learn about the marine ecosystem in the island. We will be able to see a variety of marine species including giant stingrays, whale sharks, and turtles. During mating season, June to October, we will be able to see from the distance humpback whales that come to warmer waters to mate and give birth. Scuba diving is available upon request at the time of booking. In the afternoon we will enjoy a sunset party* with the freshest seafood of the area and our signature cocktails. Sailing to Pacoche / San Lorenzo. DAY 5 - THURSDAY Pacoche / San Lorenzo - Manta After breakfast onboard, we will disembark in the harbor of Manta where a land transfer will take us to the Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche. Our first visit is to the tropical humid forest where we will hike through one of its trails to take a look at the community of howling monkeys who live in the middle of its exuberant vegetation. Afterwards, we will go to San Lorenzo, one of the largest nesting spots for marine turtles in Ecuador, if we are lucky, we will get to see baby turtles on their way to the ocean during hatching season. We will enjoy a special gastronomic experience in San Lorenzo using the manabita ancestral oven. After lunch, we will learn about the toquilla straw hat tradition with a local family of weavers from Pile. The small town of Pile is known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest and most expensive Toquilla straw hats in the world. We will be able to see firsthand how the hats are made. Incorrectly known as Panama Hats, the Toquilla Straw Hat was designated in 2012 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World. Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice. End of services 6 Days / 5 NightsDAYS 1-4 - SUNDAY TO WEDNESDAY. Same as on 5 day itinerary
DAY 5 - THURSDAY Pacoche / San Lorenzo - Bahía de Caráquez After breakfast onboard, we will disembark in the harbor of Manta where a land transfer will take us to the Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche. Our first visit is to the tropical humid forest where we will hike through one of its trails to take a look at the community of howling monkeys who live in the middle of its exuberant vegetation. Afterwards, we will go to San Lorenzo, one of the largest nesting spots for marine turtles in Ecuador, if we are lucky, we will get to see baby turtles on their way to the ocean during hatching season. We will enjoy a special gastronomic experience in San Lorenzo using the manabita ancestral oven. After lunch, we will learn about the toquilla straw hat tradition with a local family of weavers from Pile. The small town of Pile is known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest and most expensive Toquilla straw hats in the world. We will be able to see firsthand how the hats are made. Incorrectly known as Panama Hats, the Toquilla Straw Hat was designated in 2012 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World. In the afternoon we will return to the yacht and enjoy some relaxing time and dinner onboard. Sailing to Bahía de Caráquez. DAY 6 - FRIDAY Bahía de Caráquez - Manta We start day 6 with breakfast onboard, before departing aboard our dinghies to Puerto Amistad in Bahía de Caráquez, where a land transfer will take us to Iche in San Vicente. A gastronomic lab led by Fuegos Foundation, Iche was founded to educate local chefs in creating ‘haute cuisine' using ancestral techniques of food preparation. A gastronomic farm to table experience hosted by local chefs that will reveal a mix of history, tradition and the unique flavors of coastal cuisine. Cacao, salprieta, corviche, and chillangua are some of the local flavors that will add to our foodies' lexicon. Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice. End of services. 8 Days / 7 NightsDAYS 1-5 - SUNDAY TO THURSDAY. Same as on 6 day itinerary
DAY 6 - FRIDAY Bahía de Caráquez - Jaramijó We start day 6 with breakfast onboard, before departing aboard our dinghies to Puerto Amistad in Bahía de Caráquez, where a land transfer will take us to Iche in San Vicente. A gastronomic lab led by Fuegos Foundation, Iche was founded to educate local chefs in creating ‘haute cuisine' using ancestral techniques of food preparation. A gastronomic farm to table experience hosted by local chefs that will reveal a mix of history, tradition and the unique flavors of coastal cuisine. Cacao, salprieta, corviche, and chillangua are some of the local flavors that will add to our foodies' lexicon. In the afternoon, we will get back to the yacht to relax at the sundeck and later on in the evening guests will enjoy a chocolate tasting and dinner. Sailing to Jaramijó. DAY 7 - SATURDAY Jaramijó - Manta We will start our day with a hearty breakfast onboard. Our last day of activities is designed for guests to enjoy the coastline, marine activities and to do some local handcraft shopping. After breakfast we will disembark in the port of Jaramijó and head off to Montecristi, cradle of the Liberalism in Ecuador and an important production center for toquilla handcrafts and home goods. In Montecristi we will visit Ciudad Alfaro, a historic building dedicated to General Eloy Alfaro, one of the most important political figures in the republican era of Ecuador. After this visit to ciudad Alfaro, we will walk around Montecristi and their dozens of little shops featuring toquilla goods, such as tableware, bags, hair accessories, souvenirs, etc. This is a nice opportunity to do some local shopping. We will go back to the yacht for lunch and in the afternoon we will have free time to enjoy marine activities, relax at the hot tub, enjoy some spa treatments, and participate in an onboard cooking class with our chef. Farewell dinner and cocktail onboard. Overnight sailing to Manta. DAY 8 - SUNDAY Manta We will say our goodbyes early in the morning, as your transfer to the airport will be awaiting at Manta’s Port Authority (TPM). Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice. End of services. |
The staterooms
Nine staterooms (for a maximum of 18 people) designed with beauty and comfort in mind. Each room has incredible views of local landscapes and is full of charming details that will make our guests feel right at home. Guests will walk on hardwood teak floors and lie on sustainably sourced cotton sheets, finished with organic corozo closures made from “organic ivory,” an ethical alternative to ivory. They will also step on sustainable PET rugs made of recycled plastic bottles and snuggle under blankets handwoven by female artisans from the Ecuadorian highlands. Adding to the sustainability and environmentalism are works from local artists, seashell and glass details, wood and stone paneling, and greenery. Natural fibers can be found throughout enhanced by sunlight streaming through the panoramic windows. Guests will enjoy local, freshly ground coffee from the areas visited each day and dine on handmade pottery. Each stateroom features a personal library with books in multiple languages, bamboo accessories, scented candles and organically sourced snacks from a variety of Ecuadorian regions. Staterooms are equipped with automated curtains, an integrated sound system, an independent air conditioning and ventilation system with HEPA filters, television with on-demand service, a hair dryer, complimentary and unlimited WiFi, a safe, plush bathrobes and slippers, and a selection of pillows and blankets.
Social & outdoor areas
In the yacht you will also find 4 outdoor lounge areas to relax, one formal interior lounge, both interior and alfresco dining areas, a wine cellar, a cozy area for spa treatments and gym, and a beautiful hot tub from where to enjoy the magnificent seascape. Possible Start Dates 2023: Aug. 20, 27, Sept. 3,10,17,24, Oct. 1,8,15,22,29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2024: Jan. 1, 7, Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, August, 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Oct. 6, 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (check for availability) Prices per person, double occupancy, valid until June 2024:
4 Day Cruise
5 Day Cruise
6 Day Cruise
8 Day Cruise:
** August and December have a supplement USD $350 per person
Single occupancy has a supplement of 45% in addition. PAYMENT TERMS (except for Christmas and New Years)
Individual Bookings - We require a deposit of USD 650.00 per person for double occupancy and USD 1,200.00 for single occupancy at the time of booking. The balance must be paid in full 60 days prior to departure. Group Bookings (3+ Cabins) - The balance must be paid in full 90 days prior to departure. Charter booking - We require a first deposit of USD 15,000.00 at the time of booking. A second deposit of USD 20,000.00 270 days prior to departure, and final payment is due in full 180 days prior to departure. CANCELLATION POLICY (except for Christmas and New Years) Individual Bookings - Cancellations received up to 90 days prior to departure will be refunded in full except for a USD 300.00 service charge per person for double occupancy and USD 500.00 for single occupancy. 89 – 60 days prior to departure, 100% of the deposit will be forfeited. Less than 60 days prior to departure, 100% of the booking will be forfeited. Group Bookings (3+ cabins) - Cancellations received up to 120 days prior to departure will receive a full refund except for a USD 300.00 service charge per person for double occupancy and USD 500.00 for single occupancy. 119 – 90 days prior to departure, 100% of the deposit will be forfeited. Less than 90 days prior to departure, 100% of the booking will be forfeited. Private Charters - Cancellations received up to 360 days prior to departure will be refunded in full except for 50% of the first deposit. 359 – 270 days prior to departure, 100% of the first deposit will be forfeited. 269 – 180 days, 100% of the first deposit and 50% of the second deposit will be forfeited. 179 - 120 days, 100% of the first and second deposits will be forfeited. Less than 120 days, 100% of the booking will be forfeited. INCLUDED IN YOUR RATE
NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR RATE
The expeditions depart at 14:00 from Manta. We suggest to book an international flight to Quito. From Quito there is a short 40-minute flight to Manta on either Avianca or Lan Ecuador. We will gladly assist you in booking the domestic flight from Quito to Manta if needed. There is also now a direct flight from Panama City on Copa Airlines on Wednesdays and Sundays The Kontiki shuttle is available to pick you up from your hotel and take you to the port for timely check in. It is not possible to embark the yachts before check in time on Sunday at 14:00. Check out is at 9:00. Exact itineraries depend on favorable weather conditions
OPTIONS FOR PRIVATE CHARTERS
FAMILY EXPEDITIONS Families or groups with children may choose a designated expedition tailor made for family entertainment. Family expeditions are available during summer time and other major holidays and will feature age-appropriated activities to make sure that our youngest guests have fun while exploring new locations. THEMED EXPEDITIONS Whether you find inspiration in authentic gastronomy, wellness, fitness or yoga, photography, extreme sports or exploring unique natural treasures you can indulge your special interest in unique coastal locations on a themed expedition with Kontiki, such as:
Time is valuable and scarce in the current fast-paced global environment. We have specially designed shorter expeditions for travelers with limited time who still want to indulge in a luxury sea expedition aboard our private yachts. Short expeditions are available every week upon request. |
