Expedition Catamaran
The Galápagos

MC Alya

MC Alya
MC Alya
MC Alya
MC Alya

Highlights

  • Perfect for family charters – Alya’s layout, spacious cabins and generous outdoor areas make her one of our favourite yachts for exclusive family adventures.
  • Private balconies – Eight of the nine cabins feature private balconies, giving everyone their own quiet space to enjoy the ever-changing scenery.
  • Space that matters – Larger-than-average cabins and wide open decks mean families never feel cramped, even during longer voyages.
  • Adventure for every generation – Snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and Zodiac excursions ensure children, parents and grandparents all find their own favourite moments.
  • Relaxed onboard atmosphere – Alya has an easy-going feel that encourages everyone to unwind, whether that’s watching dolphins from the bow or sharing stories over dinner.
  • Explore the Galápagos together – Flexible itineraries combine iconic wildlife encounters with plenty of opportunities to swim, walk and discover as a family.
MC Alya

Features

  • Constructed: Built in 2017 as a purpose-designed luxury motor catamaran for expedition cruising in the Galápagos.
  • Capacity: 16 guests.
  • Guides: One bilingual Galápagos National Park naturalist guide accompanies each departure.
  • Crew: Nine crew members, supported by the naturalist guide.
  • Speed: Maximum speed of approximately 12 knots.
  • Size: Length: 31.5 metres. Beam: 12.5 metres.
  • Restaurants: Indoor dining room and an al fresco dining area for relaxed meals overlooking the islands.
  • Leisure: Jacuzzi, panoramic lounge, bar, sun deck, kayaks, paddleboards and snorkelling equipment.
  • Stabilisers: The wide twin-hulled catamaran design provides excellent natural stability while cruising between the islands.
  • Cabins: Nine outward-facing cabins, eight with private balconies. All include en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and flexible twin or double beds. The layout works particularly well for private family charters.

Good to know

How to get there

Alya departs from either Baltra or San Cristóbal, depending on your itinerary. After your flight from mainland Ecuador, you’ll be met by the crew and transferred to the yacht for embarkation.

Are children welcome?

Absolutely. Alya is one of our favourite yachts for families and private charters. Spacious cabins, a stable catamaran design and plenty of communal space make her ideal for travelling with children, while the flexible accommodation works equally well for multigenerational groups.

Giving back

Alya is operated by a company that believes tourism should actively contribute to the long-term protection of the Galápagos rather than simply minimise its impact. Founded and run by Ecuadorians, it prioritises local employment, works closely with island suppliers wherever possible and supports local artisans and small producers, ensuring more of the economic benefits of tourism remain within the Galápagos.

The company has been recognised for its commitment to responsible tourism, receiving the LATA Responsible Tourism Award (Gold) for its work with local communities. Sustainability also extends behind the scenes, with its headquarters powered by solar energy, comprehensive staff sustainability training and procurement policies that favour environmentally and socially responsible suppliers.

Onboard, Alya operates under the strict regulations of the Galápagos National Park, with responsible wildlife viewing, careful waste management, reduced single-use plastics and environmental interpretation forming part of every voyage. The aim is not simply to protect this remarkable archipelago today, but to ensure future generations can experience it in exactly the same way.

Why we love Alya

Alya is operated by an Ecuadorian company that’s proving tourism can be a force for good. From employing local people and supporting island businesses to investing in renewable energy and community initiatives, they’re helping ensure the Galápagos remain both environmentally protected and economically sustainable.

Karen 130 Round
Karen Chapman

Specialises in

Latin America, The Caribbean and Polar Regions
MC Alya in the Galapagos

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