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Kontiki Pacific Coast CruiseKontiki is a new way to explore and discover unique and unexplored places in coastal Ecuador in comfort, providing an authentic immersion in the local culture, tradition and gastronomy. Due to the unique experiences and luxury standards, Kontiki is the first boutique sea expedition to become part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World family. They can now offer covid 19 tests on board
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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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Each expedition incorporates exploration, discovery, adventure, and above all a deep connection with our 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.
Kontiki’s eight day expeditions will take you to remote locations, inaccessible to larger vessels or land transportation. Get to explore unique sceneries and interact with new surroundings for an unforgettable voyage. You will visit pristine beaches, protected ecological refuges and reserves, and truly wonderful natural treasures. 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 8 days/7nights expeditions depart every Sunday from Manta and Guayaquil respectively. At first there will be 1 boat that will alternate departure points every week, but soon there will be 2 boats - one for the north and one for the south. With 10 crew members and 2 guides, there is an almost 1 to 1 ratio of staff to guest. : 2 expert guides, 1 concierge, 1 captain, 2 chefs, 1 wellness specialist, 1 bartender, 1 waiter and 3 people in charge of housekeeping and maintenance. They have kayaks on board for those who would like to paddle. Scuba diving can be arranged at extra cost with an outside operator. 
The Toquila ExpeditionDay 1: Manta
Board the boat. Welcome Dinner Included: Transportation, local guide , dinner Day 2: Bahía de Caraquez ISLA CORAZON We start with a visit to Isla Corazon, a naturally heart-shaped mangrove island, located on the Chrone River estuary off the Bahía de Caraquez in Ecuador's coastal province of Manabí. CACAO ROUTE Then we venture into la Ruta del Cacao and become one of the few people to ever see the oldest cocoa trees in the world, the Heritage trees. With over 200 years of age, they yield the rarest cocoa beans that are harvested, processed and aged (like wine) into unique chocolate creations following artisan techniques. Meet the community of producers responsible for keeping the tradition alive and indulge in a gastronomic experience that includes a Cacao Tasting menu and a “Tree to Bar” chocolate tasting by the hand of local expert chocolatiers. An unforgettable event that will connect our senses with the surrounding nature, culture, tradition and gastronomy. HUMEDAL LA SEGUA Canoe your way into one of the largest natural wetlands in Ecuador, with 1,742 hectares, La Segua is refuge for a diversity of aquatic and land animals, plants and above all it is a sanctuary for birds. La Segua is home to over 177 species of birds including migrant species from North America. This wetland is a tranquil location to relax and connect with a vast ecosystem that will take your breath away. Day 3: MOMPICHE BEACH AND NATURAL RESERVE Marimba beats and warm smiles will welcome you to the afro-american community of Mompiche. Learn about local artisan fishermen and get an understanding of their lifestyle and traditions. Discover the seldom-visited beach of Portete and stride through the mangrove for “Concheo” a local activity of collecting shellfish for a gastronomic experience, which awakens our senses and teaches us about autochthonous produce, flavors and culture. Peruvian Paso horses will take us for a ride at the beach that will end with a visit to a private natural reserve and water activities around Jupiter Island. Day 4: PACOCHE MARINE WILDLIFE REFUGE Fifty kilometers of pristine beaches are part of the refuge; some of them are special nesting locations of marine turtles and at specific times of the year you can see tiny tortoises leaving the beach on their way to the ocean. Pacoche extends for over 5 thousand hectares of humid tropical forest and it is the stage for exuberant vegetation and singular animal species. Howling monkeys are the most distinctive out of the 41 species of mammals inhabiting the wildlife refuge. Rock formations, caves and cliffs shape the local landscape, and at the very top of the hills there is the refuge lighthouse. From there we will enjoy breathtaking views of the coast and nearby beaches. COMMUNITY OF PILE AND MONTECRISTI Expert hands, autochthonous materials and a millenary tradition give life to the craft that one of our expedition is named after: the Toquilla Straw Hat. We will visit the small town of Pile, well known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest, and most expensive, toquilla straw hats in the world, which were designated in 2012 by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World. Combining local organic produce, authentic cuisine and creativity, our executive chef Cecilia Cedeño will pamper us with an on-site demonstration of the rich culinary culture from Manabi in a delightful farm to table experience. Day 5: Machalilla National Park - ISLA DE LA PLATA Also known as “Small Galapagos”, Isla de la Plata is a hidden treasure seventeen miles off the coast of Ecuador. With almost seven square kilometres, this uninhabited island harbors blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, Galapagos’ frigates, sea tortoises and other singular species. There are several trails across the island to explore its amazing ecosystem above sea level and below surface as well. Snorkeling will let us discover a submarine world where you can spot giant rays and other aquatic species. From the month of June through October we will watch how large groups of Humpback whales from the Antarctic Ocean arrive to our coast to mate and reproduce in warmer waters. An extraordinary display of playful acrobatics above water will captivate us while we traverse the sea to our next destination. Day 6: LOS FRAILES BEACH NATIONAL PARK Los Frailes is one of the most beautiful beaches in the coast of Ecuador. With a crescent shape, it is guarded by cliffs that protect it from the wind. White sand, warm and shallow waters invite visitors to bathe and relax there for hours. Snorkeling close to the rocks at the base of the cliffs will show schools of colorful fish that live in the area. A pleasant hiking trail will take us to several lookout spots at the top of one of the cliffs where you can see neighboring unspoiled beaches and astounding ocean views. AGUA BLANCA MUSEUM AND VILLAGE Agua Blanca is a small settlement that holds remains of one of the most ancient civilizations in South America, the Manteño culture of the pre-Columbian period. The ancient Agua Blanca Community was among the few communities that resisted colonization for the longest time. Therefore, many traditions and archeological findings are preserved. A set of temples, cottages, and plazas typical of the Manteña culture, as well as archeological pieces and skulls, can be found on this site dating from 1500 BC. Get ready to swim in a natural sulfur lagoon which minerals and mud treatments are said to have medicinal and wellness attributes. Howling monkeys, butterflies, hummingbirds, and local flora like ceibo trees can also be seen here during the trail walks through the forest. Agua Blanca is a mix of natural wonder, culture and archeology. Day 7:Puerto Bolívar/ Zaruma We start our day with a visit to Buenaventura Reserve where a breakfast, surrounded by birds, will be served. BUENAVENTURA RESERVE, JOCOTOCO FOUNDATION In the southern region of the coast expands the Buenaventura reserve with more than 1500 hectares of cloud forest and four different microclimates. The reserve is managed by a private foundation in charge of protecting the habitat for over 320 species of birds including 36 species of hummingbirds and 30 endemic species, 255 species of butterflies, and a diversity of marsupials, reptiles and amphibians. An easy guided walk by one of the 5 trails available will get us immersed in a sub- tropical forest naturally adorned with exotic orchids. A true natural paradise that will attest to Ecuador being the most biodiverse country in the world. EL SEXMO GOLD MINE Let’s get immersed in this unusual exploration of the history and operation of an ancient gold mine. El Sexmo is the oldest mine in the region and in recent years has shifted its activity from extraction to tourism, which we at Kontiki support and applaud from a sustainability standpoint. Zaruma’s mining industry dates back to the pre-Inca era becoming the main source of economic income for La Real Audiencia de Quito. This is an expedition through history and culture that will reveal us the secrets behind gold extraction while experimenting the working conditions of miners 500 meters into a golden cave. ZARUMA’S OLD TOWN A heaven for coffee lovers and an ode to early 1900’s architecture, Zaruma has been named Cultural Patrimony of Ecuador and it is considered to be a “magical” town for its natural beauty, cultural richness, traditions, folklore, historical relevance, cuisine, art crafts and great hospitality. We will enjoy an authentic gastronomic experience with native food from local farmers in an old house in Zaruma and will see from the inside how architecture can tell the history of a place and show the intimate connection between people and nature. Day 8: Guayaquil La Perla del Pacifico is the unofficial name for Guayaquil. This is the largest city in Ecuador home to beautiful historic locations that have been preserved despite the vibrant life and fast growing pace of the city. Las Peñas has become the historic bohemian neighborhood of the city, bursting life in the form of small traditional cafes, bars and restaurants, art galleries and handcraft shops. At the top of the 444 steps that take you uphill, a lighthouse and a small church crown the neighborhood with amazing views of the city. Next to this colonial neighborhood is Puerto Santa Ana, a modern development where cultural and leisure activities take place. Short Itinerary A (4nights / 5 days)Day 1
• Pick up from hotel and transfer to M/Y Kontiki Wayra • Check-in and sunset cocktail • Welcome dinner • Overnight sailing to Bahia de Caraquez Day 2 • Visit Isla Corazon mangroves • Transfer and visit to Ruta del Cacao • On site farm to table lunch (tasting menu) • Visit to Humedal la Segua - birdwatching • Dinner and overnight sailing to Mompiche Day 3 • Visit to Mompiche – artisan fishing interpretation • Visit to Portete mangrove and shellfish collection • Return to yacht for lunch • Expedition to private natural reserve and Jupiter Island • Dinner and overnight sailing to Manta Day 4 • Visit to Pacoche refuge and natural reserve • Land transfer to the community of Pile • On site lunch in Pile with executive chef • Visit to Montecristi’s toquilla hat shops • Ancestral cuisine dinner onboard • Overnight sailing to Salango Day 5 • Water activities and guided snorkeling in Salango • Return to yacht for lunch • Yacht check-out and visit to Agua Blanca Reserve • Visit to Los Frailes Beach and farewell • Transfer from Puerto López to Guayaquil Itinerary B (3nights / 4days)Day 1
• Pick up from hotel and transfer to Puerto Lopez • Check-in and water activities in Salango • Return to yacht for lunch • Visit to Agua Blanca museum and reserve • Visit Los Frailes Beach • Dinner and overnight sailing to Isla de la Plata Day 2 • Visit to Isla de la Plata – land exploration • Guided water activities in Isla de la Plata • Return to yacht for lunch • Guided snorkeling expedition – whale watching • Teppanyaki sunset onboard • Dinner and overnight sailing to Pto Bolivar Day 3 • Visit to Buenaventura reserve • Land transfer to Mina El Sexmo for guided visit • On site lunch in Zaruma’s old town • Transfer to Pto Bolivar and back to yacht • Farewell dinner and overnight sailing to Guayaquil Day 4 • Breakfast and check-out • Visit to Guayaquil’s old town Las Peñas • Visit to historic park and lunch in Casa Julian • Visit to Cathedral and Centenario Park • Transfer to hotel or airport Grand opening rates per person for 8 day cruises, valid until Dec.. 31, 2022:
Regular rates per person in US$ for 8 day cruises:
Regular rates per person in double in US$ for short cruises:
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. The expeditions depart Sunday at 16:00 from either Manta or Guayaquil depending on your chosen itinerary. If departing 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. 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 16:00. Check out is on Sunday at 9:00. INCLUDED IN YOUR RATE
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The staterooms
Nine staterooms 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.
Veranda luxury stateroom
Panoramic view luxury stateroom
Social & outdoor areas
The yacht has five different social areas, including a stylish gourmet salon, an indoor lounge with an organic bar, a sundeck with lounge chairs, a wet bar and jacuzzi, and two small outdoor lounges in the bridge and main decks where you can relax and have a signature cocktail enjoying the marine breeze. Also a gym and gift shop with local designer brands. 
Spondylus ExpeditionDay 1: Guayaquil
Arrival in Guayaquil Included: dinner , local guide , transportation Day 2:Guayaquil La Perla del Pacifico is the unofficial name for Guayaquil. This is the largest city in Ecuador home to beautiful historic locations that have been preserved despite the vibrant life and fast growing pace of the city. Las Peñas has become the historic bohemian neighborhood of the city, bursting life in the form of small traditional cafes, bars and restaurants, art galleries and handcraft shops. At the top of the 444 steps that take you uphill, a lighthouse and a small church crown the neighborhood with amazing views of the city. Next to this colonial neighborhood is Puerto Santa Ana, a modern development where cultural and leisure activities take place. Day 3: Puerto Bolivar- Marine Reserve Isla Santa Clara A magical collection of islands and islets guarded by the ocean at the south of the coast of Ecuador, Santa Clara is a natural refuge for over 23 thousand birds and a large colony of sea lions. A trail walk around the island will bring us up close and personal with nesting blue-footed boobies, frigates and pelicans. On the shore, a large colony of sea lions go in and out of the water in their daily feeding chores without paying much attention to our curious eyes. The rich underwater ecosystem in Santa Clara not only attracts marine birds and sea lions, but also invites dolphins and whales who grace us with their lively gymnastics from the months of June through October. Included: accommodation and breakfast, attraction, dinner, local guide , lunch , transportation Day 4: Pto López- Isla de la Plata Also known as “Small Galapagos”, Isla de la Plata is a hidden treasure seventeen miles off the coast of Ecuador. With almost seven square kilometres, this uninhabited island harbors blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, Galapagos’ frigates, sea tortoises and other singular species. There are several trails across the island to explore its amazing ecosystem above sea level and below surface as well. Snorkeling will let us discover a submarine world where you can spot giant rays and other aquatic species. From the month of June through October we will watch how large groups of Humpback whales from the Antarctic Ocean arrive to our coast to mate and reproduce in warmer waters. An extraordinary display of playful acrobatics above water will captivate us while we traverse the sea to our next destination. Included: accommodation and breakfast, attraction, dinner, local guide , lunch , transportation Day 5:Los Frailes - Agua Blanca Community Los Frailes is one of the most beautiful beaches in the coast of Ecuador. With a crescent shape, it is guarded by cliffs that protect it from the wind. White sand, warm and shallow waters invite visitors to bathe and relax there for hours. Snorkeling close to the rocks at the base of the cliffs will show schools of colorful fish that live in the area. A pleasant hiking trail will take us to several lookout spots at the top of one of the cliffs where you can see neighboring unspoiled beaches and astounding ocean views. AGUA BLANCA MUSEUM AND VILLAGE Agua Blanca is a small settlement that holds remains of one of the most ancient civilizations in South America, the Manteño culture of the pre-Columbian period. The ancient Agua Blanca Community was among the few communities that resisted colonization for the longest time. Therefore, many traditions and archeological findings are preserved. A set of temples, cottages, and plazas typical of the Manteña culture, as well as archeological pieces and skulls, can be found on this site dating from 1500 BC. Get ready to swim in a natural sulfur lagoon which minerals and mud treatments are said to have medicinal and wellness attributes. Howling monkeys, butterflies, hummingbirds, and local flora like ceibo trees can also be seen here during the trail walks through the forest. Agua Blanca is a mix of natural wonder, culture and archeology. Included: accommodation and breakfast, attraction, dinner, local guide , lunch , transportation Day 6:Manta PACOCHE MARINE WILDLIFE REFUGE Fifty kilometers of pristine beaches are part of the refuge; some of them are special nesting locations of marine turtles and at specific times of the year you can see tiny tortoises leaving the beach on their way to the ocean. Pacoche extends for over 5 thousand hectares of humid tropical forest and it is the stage for exuberant vegetation and singular animal species. Howling monkeys are the most distinctive out of the 41 species of mammals inhabiting the wildlife refuge. Rock formations, caves and cliffs shape the local landscape, and at the very top of the hills there is the refuge lighthouse. From there we will enjoy breathtaking views of the coast and nearby beaches. COMMUNITY OF PILE AND MONTECRISTI Expert hands, autochthonous materials and a millenary tradition give life to the craft that one of our expedition is named after: the Toquilla Straw Hat. We will visit the small town of Pile, well known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest, and most expensive, toquilla straw hats in the world, which were designated in 2012 by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World. Combining local organic produce, authentic cuisine and creativity, our executive chef Cecilia Cedeño will pamper us with an on-site demonstration of the rich culinary culture from Manabi in a delightful farm to table experience. Included: accommodation and breakfast , attraction , dinner , local guide , lunch , transportation Day 7: Esmeraldas MOMPICHE BEACH AND NATURAL RESERVE Marimba beats and warm smiles will welcome you to the afro-american community of Mompiche. Learn about local artisan fishermen and get an understanding of their lifestyle and traditions. Discover the seldom-visited beach of Portete and stride through the mangrove for “Concheo” a local activity of collecting shellfish for a gastronomic experience, which awakens our senses and teaches us about autochthonous produce, flavors and culture. Peruvian Paso horses will take us for a ride at the beach that will end with a visit to a private natural reserve and water activities around Jupiter Island. Included: accommodation and breakfast , attraction , dinner , local guide , lunch , transportation Day 8:Manta BAHÍA DE CARAQUEZ Venture into la Ruta del Cacao and become one of the few people to ever see the oldest cocoa trees in the world, the Heritage trees. With over 200 years of age, they yield the rarest cocoa beans that are harvested, processed and aged (like wine) into unique chocolate creations following artisan techniques. Transfer to the boat, transfer from Bahia to Manta and to the airport manta. Flight to Quito or GYE Included: accommodation and breakfast , attraction , local guide , lunch , transportation Start Dates 2022: July 3, 17, 31, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 20, Dec. 4, 18, 2023: Jan. 1, 15, 29, Feb. 12, 26, March 12, 26, April 9, 23, May 7, 21, June 4 Short Itinerary A (4nights / 5days) Day 1
• Pick up from hotel and guided visit in Guayaquil • Lunch in Casa Julian – Historic Park • Transfer to M/Y Kontiki Wayra for check-in • Welcome Dinner • Overnight Sailing to Puerto Bolivar Day 2 • Visit Puyango Petrified Forest • Return to yacht for lunch • Visit to Isla Santa Clara • Cocktail party at sundeck • Dinner and overnight sailing to Salinas • Constellation observation at sundeck Day 3 • Visit to La Chocolatera and La Lobería • Return to Yacht for Lunch • Water activities in Ayangue • Teppanyaki Sunset Cocktail party at sundeck • Dinner and overnight sailing to Machalilla Day 4 • Visit to Isla de la Plata (land visit and birdwatching) • Return to yacht for lunch • Water activities in Isla de la Plata • Short cooking class in sundeck and cocktails • Dinner and overnight sailing to Salango Day 5 • Water activities and guided snorkeling • Return to yacht for lunch • Yacht check-out and visit to Agua Blanca Reserve • Visit to Los Frailes Beach and farewell • Transfer from Puerto López to Guayaquil Itinerary B (3nights / 4days)Day 1
• Pick up from hotel and transfer to Puerto Lopez • Check-in and water activities in Salango • Return to yacht for lunch • Visit to Agua Blanca museum and reserve • Visit Los Frailes Beach • Dinner and overnight sailing to Manta Day 2 • Visit Pacoche natural reserve • Land transfer to the community of Pile • On site lunch in Pile with executive chef • Visit to Montecristi’s toquilla hat shops • Ancestral cuisine dinner onboard • Overnight sailing to Bahia de Caraquez Day 3 • Visit Isla Corazon and mangroves • Land transfer to Ruta del Cacao • On site farm to table lunch (tasting menu) • Visit to Humedal la Segua - birdwatching • Farewell dinner and overnight sailing to Manta Day 4 • Breakfast and check-out • Visit to Ligüiqui archeological site • Visit to Santa Marianita beach – Kite beach* • On site lunch at the beach •Transfer to hotel or airport *Kitesurf lessons available 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.
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