Quasar ExpeditionsReviews of quasarex.com

As we boarded the Grace Yacht on April 29th we had very high expectations for our two-week Galapagos cruise. I'm happy to report that not only did the cruise meet my wife, Rhonda's, and my expectations, but it also greatly exceeded them. It was a thrilling two weeks. Each day, we averaged two hikes and two snorkel sessions, each in different areas of the Galapagos, under the direction of our superb naturalist guides, Alejandro, Diego, and Walter. There were always two guides on the yacht and we divided into small groups of 8 passengers each day. We have never had such intimate interaction with wild animals on any trip we've taken, including an African photo safari last August. To say the animals were oblivious to our presence would be an accurate description of their attitude, but a bit too harsh. A better description would be that they were unconcerned and, in many instances, quite curious about our being in their world. They would frequently invade our personal space to check us out, and that was just fine with us. The Grace yacht was spectacular. Its pedigree is fascinating. It was once owned by Aristotle Onassis, who gave it to Princess Grace for her honeymoon with Prince Rainier III. The ship has hosted the likes of Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to name just a few. It also played an amazing role in World War II taking part in the evacuation of Dunkirk and even capturing a Nazi submarine. Spending time on its decks allowed one to experience a life gone by reserved for only a few. And it remains the second fastest boat currently touring the Galapagos, which helps maximize the area you can cover each day. The crew was also spectacular. Our every need was taken care of. And the food each day, prepared by a couple of outstanding chefs, was superb. No trip is ever perfect, but this one was close to perfect.

Quasar is totally focused on all the details needed to provide a safe, fun, educational and delicious experience. Beginning with the registration process, to meeting us at the airport, to boarding, to the incredible guides and gourmet food, all of it was spectacular. We learned a great deal, met others who were committed to learning and had a lot of fun. If you are contemplating going to the Galapagos, there is only one company to consider, Quasar.

Quasar were excellent throughout the holiday from our planning, their execution and the overall experience. Paul and Diane were excellent and pulled together an almost 3 week trip to the Galapagos, the Amazon and the day trips in mainland Ecuador. The entire itinterary was perfectly planned and executed. We had a very low people to naturalist ration in Galapagos and the Amazon and a person naturalist on Mainland Ecuador. This was such a good experience we are thinking about going with Quasar to Patagonia next year. Top marks!

We sailed with the Quasar Evolution from April 5 to 12. The booking agents (Diane and Paul), ship, captain (Diego), cruise director (Ruben), crew, naturalists (Bolivar, Cornelia, and Monika), meals, island visits, water activities, scenery, and animals all exceeded our expectations. The booking process was simple, with a lot of information that helped us prepare for the trip. Even though we arrived very late (near midnight) and had a long drive (45 min) from the airport into Old Town Quito, we felt safe with our driver and the hotel staff was waiting for us (all arranged by Quasar). Our city tour guide, Gabriel (also arranged by Quasar), gave us a good introduction to the history of Quito and its beautiful plaza and churches. The seven days on the Evolution were well-organized and filled with a comfortably paced schedule of water and land activities. All activities were led by the national park naturalists who were very personable, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about the islands. Unscripted on-board activities added to the trip, such as daily siestas, visiting the bridge while crossing the equator, impromptu stargazing, and happy hours in the open-air lounge. We also enjoyed the company of extraordinary, interesting, and friendly fellow passengers. While the mix of people on an expedition cruise cannot be predicted, we can’t help but think that the Evolution itself attracts special people.

Truly a trip of a lifetime! From start to finish the entire cruise was a dream. The Schicke's made planning the trip easy with VIP entry, excellent recommendations for Quito hotel and day trip. The Evolution crew was superb as were the knowledgable and local guides providing informative and fun daily expeditions - hiking, exploring and snorkeling. The only thing I would change is limiting the time spent at Darwin Research Center in Santa Cruz. It could have been much shorter. All else A+++

All of the quasar elements were very well organized and top quality. Diane's recommendations for pre and post trip excursions were very enjoyable and the guides and drivers were exceptional. I especially enjoyed the express customs clearance after a long travelling day. The Grace ship and crew were excellent, I really enjoyed the meals. To have such an excellent chef for only 16 passengers was a treat. The naturalist/guides on board were very professional and helpful and we especially appreciated Monica. The bar was not always manned, if there is a way to increase the coverage, that would be good. We were told there was a buzzer to summon the bartender but I did not find it.

The trip was amazing from start to finish, all elements were perfectly organised and exceeded our expectations in all areas.

The Evolution was an amazing boat. We had a great week with the staff on the boat as well as our guides Len, Alejandro and Soto. They were all so knowledgeable on the wildlife and the islands that we visited. The guides were all very passionate about their jobs. The food was great, Cesar the bartender had a fun drink every evening when we arrived back on the boat and the bar area was very inviting to hang out. The evening educational talks before dinner were great as we reviewed our schedule for the following day and learned fun facts about the Galapagos. Would highly recommend.