For a historic ship that is nearly 100 years old, Quasar Expeditions’ 1928-built Grace is in tip-top shape, thanks to a stem-to-stern refurbishment conducted last year. Her vintage nautical fittings pair with contemporary amenities and comforts as it visits the Galapagos Islands.
What to Expect Onboard Grace
The ship’s resulting elegance would no doubt have former owner and iconic actress Grace Kelly’s stamp of approval. These days, everyone from solo travelers to families can enjoy the ship’s cozy accommodations and brilliant public spaces.
The refined staterooms and suites are well outfitted with plush beds and chairs, plus modern necessities such as USB charging ports, in addition to traditional electrical outlets. However, there are no in-room televisions nor cabin Wi-Fi access (mostly available at an additional cost in the main lounge), as guests are encouraged to disconnect.
I was personally pleased to find my Twin Suite to be more spacious than expected. Grace can carry 16 guests total, making the vessel feel like a lightly shared yacht serviced by 12 crew members and two naturalist guides for a nearly one-to-one passenger-to-staff ratio. The staff are warm and attentive, and the guides are very knowledgeable, friendly and approachable.
The ship features classic decor, updated for modern needs and tastes.
Credit: 2023 Jason LeppertAt a time when the latest ships sailing in the Galapagos are now reaching capacities upward of 100 passengers, Quasar’s intimate alternative definitely stands out from the rest. Equipped with two pangas (the local term for Zodiac-style rigid inflatable boats), all 16 of us could simultaneously be taken onshore or to snorkeling sites, thus maximizing every ounce of time to explore. And there was no shortage of included daily activities — often two in the morning and another two in the afternoon. Guests can always pick and choose which excursions to participate in and which to opt out of, but the Galapagos program is ultimately best suited to high-pace adventurers looking for nonstop action.
In between outings to hike, swim and kayak among the Galapagos’ signature array of land and marine animals, we were served delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners at Grace’s alfresco restaurant. Made-to-order omelets served with local juices and lots of sides were tasty in the morning, while appetizers (like Ecuadorian ceviche), entrees (such as red snapper with coconut sauce) and desserts (including a delicious banana cake) rounded out the choices midday and in the evening.
Grace has a whirlpool located at its bow.
Credit: 2023 Jason LeppertAlso outdoors on Grace is an alfresco bar and lounge one deck above the restaurant; an upper sun deck, perfect for nighttime stargazing; and a whirlpool nestled in the bow. For those looking to get out of the heat, both the interior lounge — adorned with black-and-white photos displaying the ship’s history — and the cabin are fully air conditioned.
With so many options in the Galapagos, Quasar’s Grace provides equal parts adventure and elegance for multigenerational groups and other clients looking for a unique and intimate way to experience this special destination.
Note: Exclusively for TravelAge West readers, Quasar is offering complimentary roundtrip domestic airfare to the Galapagos from Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador (a value of $480 to $570 per person), to agencies booking summer (June to August) cruises.
