In response to an escalating wave of violence attributed to drug gangs in Ecuador, at least one Galapagos cruise operator has opted to suspend sailings in the archipelago in the immediate future.
Lindblad Expeditions has canceled the upcoming departures of its ships National Geographic Endeavour 2 (on January 12) and National Geographic Islander 2 (on January 13).
A Lindblad spokesperson emphasized:
"The safety and security of our guests and team members in the region remains our top priority. We are closely monitoring the situation in Ecuador and its impact on air travel in partnership with local authorities. Out of an abundance of caution and a lack of clarity regarding operating flights, we have elected to cancel the upcoming departures."
While current voyages on both ships continue as planned, Lindblad has implemented additional security precautions in the region. The company is also actively working to expeditiously and comfortably re-accommodate all affected tourists impacted by flight delays and cancellations in the region.
Celebrity Cruises, another major company in the Galapagos, has not made any changes as of now. A spokesperson highlighted:
"The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority. Our global security teams are closely monitoring the evolving situation. Should any changes be necessary, impacted guests will be notified directly."
Ecoventura (fleet) reported to TMR on Thursday that it had not made any alterations to its schedule, stating:
"Plans are unlikely to be significantly affected, and our Galapagos cruise is continuing to operate normally."
Ecoventura's spokesperson added that hotels and ground handlers are implementing utmost precautions in Guayaquil and taking precautionary logistical measures in Quito's historical center to ensure the safety of Ecoventura clients.
Several major airlines have canceled flights to Ecuador and are currently offering waived change fees.
American Airlines is waiving change fees on flights to/through/from Quito and Guayaquil scheduled through January 13. New flights must be booked by January 13, 2024, for travel from January 14 to 20, 2024, and must be in the same cabin (or pay the difference).
United Airlines is waiving change fees and fare differences for changes to flights to/from Quito scheduled for January 9 to 16, 2024. Flights can be rescheduled for any time between January 9 and February 29, 2024, with tickets in the same cabin and between the same cities as originally booked.