This Ecuadorian Cruise Makes the Case for Venturing Beyond the Galapagos

Here is a new, compelling counter-argument to the idea that the Galapagos Islands are the only reason to set sail from Ecuador: the M/Y Kontiki Wayra. The vision behind this high-luxury, small expedition ship is to explore the coast of Manabí Province, a region where founder and longtime resident Carlos Núñez recognized natural, cultural, and historical treasures largely overlooked by visitors who typically rush from Quito to the famous archipelago 600 miles offshore.

Núñez envisioned a superyacht—generally over 100 feet in length—designed for both luxury and exploration. The 128-foot-long Wayra, however, avoids the typical high-gloss superyacht aesthetic of chrome, brass, and mahogany, opting instead for local woods, natural fibers, and handmade textiles. Its nine staterooms, each offering rainfall showers and sea views, are designed as cozy, inviting spaces for up to 18 guests. Despite the ship’s luxurious accommodations, the primary focus of the Wayra is on its expeditions, offering thoughtful inland excursions each day.

Guests can hike along narrow trails of offshore island preserves, where they encounter waddling blue-footed boobies. They visit a traditional farm nestled in the coastal hills to pick, roast, and grind cacao, learning to make rudimentary chocolate. At a hybrid restaurant and culinary school overlooking the sea, guests savor ancestral foods presented with modern flair. They explore the ruins of the prehistoric Manteño culture, known for their exceptional seafaring skills, and visit the home workshop of one of Ecuador’s masters of the toquilla straw hat, where he demonstrates his expert weaving techniques.

Each day concludes with a return to the superyacht's luxuries. After arriving in bright blue Zodiacs, guests can unwind in the top deck's hot tub or enjoy the thrill of Wayra’s three-story inflatable slide. In the window-wrapped lounge and dining room, guests gather with onboard guides for lively dinners and briefings on the next day’s adventures. As night falls, they watch the lights twinkle along the shore, feeling a deep connection to the richness of this place, and counting themselves among a lucky new generation of seafarers.