Golden Galapagos: The Story behind Lucia and Ivonne´s Dream Come True | Travel Blog

It all started with a dream to offer something different travel that connects, inspires, and honors the beauty of the islands.

For over a decade, two Ecuadorian women have been shaping a new standard in a luxury travel: one rooted in purpose, elegance, and care for the environment.

In this exclusive interview with Lucia Cordova and Ivonne Zumarraga, we’ll discover how they turned their dream into reality by creating meaningful and refined cruise experiences in the Galapagos. Including the debut of their newest catamaran, Monique, which seamlessly blends elegance and sustainability in one unforgettable setting.

Are you ready to hop on board and live an unforgettable experience?

Purposeful leadership

Behind Golden Galapagos are two leaders who don’t just manage a company they live their mission

Lucia Cordova: Leadership focused on sustainability

Lucia, CEO of Golden Experiences and Travel, blends entrepreneurial drive with a sincere commitment to sustainable tourism. Every decision she makes is guided by the belief that luxury and care for the environment not only can coexist, but actually enhance one another.

Lucia Zumarraga: Leadership with positive impact

Ivonne, Executive Director, knows the Galapagos like the back of her hand. She oversees operations across the islands and the Amazon, always with an eye on excellence and positive impact. "For me, ecotourism is a way of giving back to nature for everything it gives us," she shares.

More than a cruise: a living experience

There are cruises that take you to incredible destinations…and others that make you feel like every moment was made just for you. Next, discover what makes Golden Galapagos so special.

Surprise Factor

From surprise workshops for kids to pop-up ice cream events on board, Lucia and Ivonne have created more than a cruise they’ve built a place where unexpected moments turn into memories, and every smile is thoughtfully planned by a team that genuinely loves what they do.

Lucia says it plainly: "Offering a beautiful trip isn't enough. We want every guest to feel they lived something truly unique, something they can't find anywhere else." And that intention shows in every detail.

The Golden Galapagos crew is trained not just to serve, but to anticipate. And that makes all the difference.

Sustainability you can feel

Golden Galapagos is a carbon-neutral company. But it’s not just a label they walk the talk: actively reducing plastic use, implementing clean energy solutions, and supporting reforestation projects that directly impact local biodiversity.

Every traveler who boards a Golden Galapagos cruise doesn’t just explore they learn. They learn that protecting this paradise is a shared responsibility.

Monique: luxury with a conscience

Their newest fleet addition, the Monique catamaran, is a modern marvel of thoughtful design. With exclusive itineraries and an intimate atmosphere, it´s a heartfelt reminder that true luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Monique is designed for comfort and a true connection with nature. Every detail reflects Golden Galapagos´ commitment to thoughtful, sustainable luxury.

Personal connection to Galapagos Islands and memorable moments

Every moment is cared for with heart, creating memories that last. Discover the special moments for Lucia and Ivonne.

Personal memories: Lucia and Ivonne

Lucia vividly remembers the day the Endemic cruise set sail for the first time, fully booked. "I stood at the dock watching it depart and felt the dream was no longer just ours, but shared by everyone who believed in us."

On the other hand, Ivonne shares that one of her most memorable moments was when, pregnant for the first time, she had the opportunity to lead a group of travel agents during her first visit to the Galapagos Islands. This, for her, was a very important experience of actualization of personal/professional kind and the beginning of a new life for her.

Their favorite corners of the Galapagos

Lucía struggles to pick just one. "I love every corner of these islands. But if I had to choose, it would be Española Island during the albatross courtship season. Watching them dance and perform their rituals is pure magic."

Ivonne, meanwhile, has a soft spot for North Seymour. "Watching male frigatebirds inflate their red chests is something that moves me every time. I´ve watched it many times, and it still amazes me.”

They both agree: the Galapagos aren’t just seen, they are felt.

The unexpected paths that brought them together

Lucia came to Quito from the coast planning to study dentistry. But it didn’t feel right. "I realized tourism was my true path—connecting with people, sharing my country."

Ivonne was planning a gap year, but her mom enrolled her in a tourism management program. "At first I resisted, but soon I discovered this was what I was meant to do."

"Destiny brought us together, and today we’re proud to be partners in a dream that’s already sailing," Lucia concludes.

A feature put in Voyagers Travel Company Magazine

This initiative was put up by Voyagers Travel Company, a digital magazine that unites tourism experts all over South America, and we at Golden Galapagos are proud to be part of it.

Initiative put up by Voyagers Travel Company Digital Magazine

The Voyagers Travel Company digital mag is a great chance for today’s travelers to get info before picking a cruise. Lucia Cordova and Ivonne Zumarraga back this idea since, in today’s market, clients want trustworthy and detailed content to make smart choices.

Message: The Galapagos Experience

The Galapagos Islands are not something to just dream or read about but something to live and experience. Find out for yourself the unique magic of these islands, and be part of the sharing of unforgettable moments.

“We say do not hesitate and visit the Galapagos Islands at least once in your lifetime,” they strongly recommend.

Golden Galapagos: Where Dreams Set Sail

Golden Galapagos is the result of a joint dream by Lucia and Ivonne a concept that marries opulence, eco-friendliness, and the savage aesthetic of the earth. The cruises provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance for guests to experience the Galapagos Islands up-close with personalized service and ultra-comfort in every detail.

The Galapagos is more than a destination–it is an experience that changes life. Don’t just dream it. Do it! Visit the Galapagos Islands and create lifetime memories.

Life’s moving forward… Will you leave this dream of a lifetime as just a dream?

FAQs 

1. What is Golden Galapagos?

Golden Galapagos is an Ecuadorian company founded by Lucia Cordova and Ivonne Zumarraga, offering luxury travel experiences in the Galapagos Islands that combine comfort, personalized and deep commitment to responsible tourism.

2. Who are Lucia and Ivonne? 

They are two Ecuadorian women and the co-founders of Golden Galapagos. Lucia leads the company´s strategy and development, while Ivonne oversees operations. Together, they turned their dream into reality. 

3. How is Golden Galapagos different from other cruises? 

It’s more than luxury. It’s purpose. Every detail is designed to surprise, delight and minimize environmental impact. Their commitment to sustainability, local leadership and warm service make every journey unforgettable.

4. What makes the Monique catamaran unique? 

The new Monique catamaran stands out by offering more than just luxury it provides an elegant and sustainable way to explore the Galapagos through personalized itineraries designed for a deeper, more meaningful connection with the Galapagos Islands.

5. How can I check availability or book a cruise like Endemic or Monique?

 To book your Endemic or Monique cruise, simply check real-time availability and view current deals online.