In the News: Galapagos Debut

Discerning visitors to the Galapagos Islands currently have a choice between upscale expedition ships such as the 48-passenger M.V. Eclipse and a yacht or catamaran. But now there is the prospect of a genuinely luxurious small cruise ship plying these waters. Silversea’s Silver Galapagos, a 4,000-ton vessel with 100 passengers and 70 crew, is scheduled to begin operations in September. All cabins are oceanview suites (most with private balconies) and offer butler service. Silversea’s ships have long found favor with Harper subscribers, and this latest addition to the fleet is unlikely to be an exception.