Echoes of adventure and elegance with the MS Santa Cruz II

Step aboard the MS Santa Cruz II, a jewel of HX Cruises’ expedition fleet, for an adventure in the Galápagos blending refinement, nature, and emotion. Launched in 2002 and renovated in 2021, the MS Santa Cruz II combines contemporary elegance, cozy comfort, and a commitment to sustainability. This intimate 90-passenger ship promises an experience where the ocean and discovery come together in perfect serenity.

Havens of comfort and marine atmospheres

Sanctuaries on the waves

On board the MS Santa Cruz II, the cabins become true sanctuaries, designed to provide comfort and serenity throughout the voyage. Equipped with large windows opening onto the horizon, they are bathed in natural light and feature elegant décor in soothing tones. The Darwin suites and Explorer cabins combine cozy bedding, modern amenities, and well-thought-out spaces, inviting rest after each day of exploration in the islands.

Shared living spaces

Conviviality truly flourishes in the salons and lounges of the MS Santa Cruz II, where a warm and welcoming atmosphere meets a refined and elegant setting. The panoramic bar encourages lively conversations over a drink, the library offers specialized books on the Galápagos to feed travelers’ curiosity, while the expedition room brings passengers and naturalists together in a stimulating and inspiring environment.

Horizons from the deck

The sun deck of the MS Santa Cruz II is the perfect place to contemplate the endless ocean and breathe in the salty air. Between an ocean-facing hot tub, a stroll in the open air, and moments of meditation while gazing at the landscape, every moment on deck becomes a pause of calm and wonder. The ever-changing panorama of the Galápagos, with volcanic islets and a sky in perpetual transformation, turns every glance toward the horizon into a true sensory experience.

Flavors and gourmet moments aboard the MS Santa Cruz Il

Panoramic dinners

The restaurant of the MS Santa Cruz II showcases inventive and exquisite gastronomy where local products and international flavors intertwine in perfect harmony. Its large panoramic windows offer a living stage on the open ocean, transforming every meal into a visually stunning and delightfully flavorful spectacle. At each service, culinary artistry merges seamlessly with the marine décor, creating an elegant and refined atmosphere that beautifully enhances the entire crossing experience.

Tastes in harmony with the journey

Every meal on the MS Santa Cruz II is thoughtfully designed as a refined and harmonious extension of the expedition, connecting terrestrial discoveries to the pleasures of the table. Menus inspired by the stops, convivial tastings, and warm shared moments among travelers rhythmically structure the day. This creative culinary approach, deeply respectful of local traditions, makes dining a truly immersive experience where every flavor tells a memorable story.

Evenings at the bar

The bar-lounge of the MS Santa Cruz II comes alive at nightfall, offering an elegant and inviting setting where passengers gather to extend the emotions of the day. In a cozy and intimate atmosphere, guests savor creative cocktails and carefully selected refined wines, accompanied by soft music or lively conversations. These nocturnal moments become warm, lasting memories, marked by conviviality and the enchanting magic of nights at sea.

Authentic stops and discoveries

Encounters with the essential

Guided excursions on the MS Santa Cruz II reveal the deep soul of the Galápagos, between volcanic trails sculpted by time, playful sea lion colonies on the beaches, and sunbathing marine iguanas. Each outing becomes a cultural and natural immersion at the heart of a unique world heritage, enhanced by the passionate stories of naturalists who bring every encounter vividly to life and transform observation into a true learning experience.

Restful serenity on board

After exploration, the MS Santa Cruz II warmly invites guests to rejuvenate in an atmosphere of absolute calm. The quiet lounges become serene bubbles of silence where one can reflect deeply, the sunny terraces provide peaceful havens of meditation open to the horizon, and the bright cabins offer a comfortable and restful refuge for rest. These moments of balance, gently paced by the natural rhythm of the sea, restore energy and sweet tranquility to the travel experience.

Gentle evening activities

Evenings on the MS Santa Cruz II offer subtle activities designed to extend the magic and emotion of the day. Enriching lectures led by passionate experts, captivating documentary screenings, and lively conversations about the day’s discoveries create a stimulating and inspiring atmosphere. These moments, always imbued with elegance and friendly conviviality, encourage the sharing of knowledge, awaken curiosity, and strengthen bonds among travelers.

Itineraries and horizons of the MS Santa Cruz II

Landscapes in motion

The itineraries of the MS Santa Cruz II reveal dramatic cliffs sculpted by the elements, volcanic beaches with strikingly contrasting hues, and turquoise lagoons bordered by lush mangroves. Each crossing transforms into a moving natural gallery, where the sea and islands create ever-renewed, breathtaking, and unforgettable panoramas. Even seasoned travelers discover in these landscapes a constant source of wonder, as the diversity of forms and vibrant colors seems truly infinite.

Island flavors

At every stopover, the MS Santa Cruz II brings its passengers closer to the island cultures and their rich culinary heritage. Tasting tropical fruits picked at perfect ripeness, sharing a simple and authentic meal with the welcoming inhabitants, or visiting local conservation centers deeply enriches the overall discovery. These memorable experiences add both a human and gustatory dimension to the voyage, linking local flavors to the stories of communities living in harmony with their extraordinary environment.

Magic of luminous moments

Aboard the MS Santa Cruz II, sunrises and sunsets transform the sea into a living, ever-changing canvas. The golden tones illuminating the horizon, the delicate pink hues coloring the clouds, and the starry skies of striking purity infuse every crossing with rare and poetic beauty. These suspended moments become intimate and treasured memories, engraved forever in the hearts and minds of the travelers.

Voyages Aqua Terra: the art of traveling differently

Tailor-made guidance

With Voyages Aqua Terra, every cruise aboard the MS Santa Cruz II is carefully shaped according to your most precise desires. Our advisors take great care to understand your expectations, whether it involves cabin selection, transfer organization, or planning the most suitable excursions. This personalized attention, infused with discretion and professionalism, ensures a smooth and elegant journey where every detail creates a perfectly harmonious experience.

Refined privileges

Voyages Aqua Terra offers clients aboard the MS Santa Cruz II exclusive advantages that elevate every single moment of the crossing. Elegant upgrades, personalized services, and unique attentions enrich the stay with a rare and distinctive touch. These subtle privileges, thoughtfully designed to surprise and delight, elevate the overall experience and transform each cruise into an exceptional voyage, where comfort and refinement beautifully combine together.

Imperishable memories

Thanks to Voyages Aqua Terra, the MS Santa Cruz II becomes far more than just a ship: it transforms into a treasure trove of imperishable memories. The discoveries, encounters, and emotions experienced on board turn into unforgettable moments, engraved permanently in memory like cherished personal treasures. Every gleam of light, every smile, and every stopover extends the spirit of the cruise beyond the final stage, leaving a lasting imprint in the hearts of travelers.