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Kontiki Wayra

Contemporary wellness-themed yacht pioneering exploration of Ecuador & Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

Overview

Focused on the concept of neo-luxury, Kontiki Wayra is a nine-stateroom yacht that caters to independently-minded travelers who desire a personal connection with their destination. This boutique vessel uniquely offers pioneering four to eight-day itineraries along the Pacific coast in Ecuador and Costa Rica, blending wellness and discovery, the first expedition vessel to sail these culturally and wildlife-rich routes and the only boat to be a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Life Aboard The Kontiki Wayra

Every inch of the Kontiki yacht has a contemporary style crafted from the finest materials. The vessel aims to help maximize comfort, as is evident in all three stateroom categories. Every ensuite stateroom features upscale fittings and 100% organic cotton linens, and many offer either panoramic windows or terraces. However, you’ll likely want to spend the bulk of your onboard time in the ship’s social areas, including the Organic Bar, Chill Parlour, Jacuzzi, and solarium.

To nurture your mind and body, the boat offers a Fitness Temple, Wellness Retreat, and a spa. With your mind at peace, it’s time to jump into some watersports with the ever popular inflatable waterslide from the top deck and the floating, netted pool deck to the rear, which allows for safe ocean swimming without the fear of sea creatures nibbling you. There’s also wetsuits, fins, snorkel masks, paddle boards, kayaks, and Seabobs mounted with cameras for you use. Scuba diving, although not included as standard, is also available upon request.

Along the way, the yacht’s chefs will craft gourmet meals and snacks from local organic ingredients. In case you want to share any of those epic experiences, or keep in touch with the office, the vessel’s high-speed WIFI will keep you connected. No matter how you spend your time, a 10-person crew will assist with every desire.

Excursions From Your Kontiki Cruise

The Kontiki Wayra yacht cruises Ecuador’s less-visited Pacific coastline between August and November, and Costa Rica’s coral reef-laden Pacific shorelines from December to July. In each destination you have the choice of two exciting expedition routes of five or eight days’ duration to suit your travel timeframe. Along the way, you will cruise through forests, mangroves, and wetlands and stop at pristine beaches, ecological reserves, and remote locations. No matter your itinerary, you will be accompanied through these seldom-traveled routes by two expert guides and be sailing during the best sea and weather conditions for each region.

All itineraries feature opportunities to interact with local communities to learn about native cultures, traditions, gastronomy, and crafts, as well as see some of the most spectacular wildlife and natural phenomenon on the planet, including migrating whales and manta rays in Ecuador, and frolicking dolphins, amazing mammals, and brilliant bioluminescent plankton in Costa Rica.

Sustainability At Sea

The team behind the M/Y Kontiki Wayra is committed to the values of sustainability and conscious travel. With these goals in mind, Kontiki partners with several NGOs that work towards ocean and beach conservation. The team is also working towards reducing their CO2 footprint and eliminating the usage of single-use plastics aboard the yacht. Likewise, Kontiki strives to promote the economic development of local communities while also respecting their culture and traditions. To this end, Kontiki participates in multiple projects geared towards improving the quality of life in indigenous communities and the yacht features décor from various local artisans.

A Kontiki Wayra cruise is a sensory experience carefully curated to help discerning travelers make an emotional connection with nature and local communities, all while indulging in the utmost comfort and pampering. Unparalleled attention to detail, beautiful surroundings, and the perfect mix of serenity and adventure make a Kontiki cruise the trip of a lifetime.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 6
5-Day CR
5-Day EC
7-Day CR Christmas
7-Day CR NYE
8-Day CR
8-Day EC

5 Day - Pura Vida Costa Rica

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Arrive to Golfito airport.  Embark the yacht from Marina Bahía Golfito. Check-in onboard, welcome cocktail and briefing.  Sail to Golfo Dulce to start this week long adventure.

Kontiki - Pura Vida Costa Rica
Location
Golfo Dulce
Day
1 / 5

Dolphin Watching & Water Activities

AM: Arrive to los Mogos to embark in a full day of aquatic adventures. Soak in the serenity of the surrounding jungle, listening to the symphony of birdsong and the rustle of leaves as you glide effortlessly in a kayak or SUP, keeping an eye out for playful monkeys in the trees. Enjoy a morning of marine activities with our oceanic club deployed. Lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant underwater world with a snorkeling adventure. Zodiac ride to spot the dolphins in the area. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Pura Vida Costa Rica
Location
Golfo Dulce
Day
2 / 5

Snorkeling Trail of Corals & Kayak Expedition

AM: Arrive at Punta Adela where we will explore the underwater scene following a snorkeling trail of corals. Glide alongside colorful fish darting through coral reefs, and admire the unique biodiversity of the Pacific Ocean. Let the sun caress your skin while you enjoy the rest of the morning at a secluded beach. Lunch onboard.

PM: Kayak expedition to the mangroves to witness the breathtaking sunset that paints the horizon in the calm waters of the river. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Pura Vida Costa Rica
Location
Punta Adela
Day
3 / 5

Cacao Plantation & Chocolate Making Process

AM: Disembark in Puerto Jimenez for a visit to Palo Seco and start a journey through the history of Theobroma Cacao as we explore a plantation on a short hike. Witness the fascinating chocolate making process and indulge with a variety of tropical fruits and freshly made chocolate fondue. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Fun Afternoon of marine activities. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Pura Vida Costa Rica
Location
Puerto Jimenez
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark in Corcovado National Park. La Sirena trail beckons, promising an awe-inspiring hike along the untamed coastal stretch. Passing La Sirena Ranger Station, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of secondary forest, where the symphony of nature harmonizes with breathtaking vistas of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Lunch on board.

PM: Afternoon sailing to Drake Bay. Check out and disembark.

Kontiki - Pura Vida Costa Rica
Location
Drake Bay
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

5 Day - Spondylus Expedition Ecuador

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Our discovery journey of coastal Ecuador starts in Manta, one of the most important ports in the country and a strategic location for tourism in Manabí. This beach city is internationally known for its fishing industry, whose star product, tuna, is exported all over the world.

Our shuttle will take you to Manta’s port authority (TPM), from where we will board M/Y Kontiki Wayra for check-in and a welcome drink. Our concierge will introduce you to our crew members, go over the yacht areas and assign the staterooms that will become home for the next 5 days.

In the evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by our executive chef onboard.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Manta - Ayangue
Day
1 / 5

Ayangue & El Pelado

AM: We start day 2 at Ayangue, a small coastal town also known as the Pool of the Pacific because of its calm waters. After breakfast onboard, we will depart in one of our tenders to nearby islet El Pelado for a snorkeling expedition. This is a unique opportunity to swim with the local community of sea lions and explore the submarine secrets of the area. From June until October, this also becomes a privileged location to see humpback whales closely.

By noon we will return to the yacht for marine activities in the ocean club and lunch onboard.

PM: After lunch we will disembark in the beach of Ayangue and after a short beachwalk we will arrive to a charming place where we will learn about the Valdivia culture. This is a millenary culture that maintains intact its pottery tradition, inherited from the pre-Inca Valdivia culture (4500 B.C.). We will learn about the techniques and materials used in making ancestral pieces as we make our own handcraft in a beautiful “experience in clay”. We will return to the yacht for dinner.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Ayangue - Machalilla National Park
Day
2 / 5

Agua Blanca & Islets

AM: After a hearty breakfast, we will disembark in Machalilla National Park where a land transfer will take us to Agua Blanca. This small community houses archeological pieces from one of the oldest civilizations in South America, the Manteño Culture, which dates back to the year 1500 A.C. Temples, country houses, typical ancient squares and other archeological remains are some of the treasures in Agua Blanca.

A short walk through its forest will show us butterflies, hummingbirds and local trees such as the algarrobos. During our visit, we will celebrate an ancestral ritual of purification and gratitude, that will connect us with nature and with ourselves, accompanied by the guidance of the shamans of the community. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we will enjoy a private beach experience in the islets of Machalilla National Park and will enjoy diverse marine activities such as snorkel, paddleboard, kayak or swim in our beach club which includes an oceanic pool, a water slide, SeaBobs, etc.

We will go back to the yacht to enjoy a beautiful sunset and dinner in the main deck*

*Depending on favorable weather conditions

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Machalilla National Park - Isla de la Plata
Day
3 / 5

Isla de la Plata & Snorkeling

AM: After breakfast, we will start our activities with a wet landing in Isla de la Plata, which belongs to Machalilla National Park. Isla de la Plata holds beautiful natural treasures and a walk through its trails will take us to nesting areas of Blue Footed Boobies, Masked Boobies and Frigatebirds. After our land exploration, we will go back to the yacht for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we will do a guided underwater snorkeling expedition to learn about the marine ecosystem in the island. We will be able to see a variety of marine species including giant stingrays, whale sharks, and turtles.

During mating season, June to October, we will be able to see from the distance humpback whales that come to warmer waters to mate and give birth. Scuba diving is available upon request at the time of booking.

Later, we will enjoy a sunset party* with the freshest seafood of the area and our signature cocktails.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Isla de la Plata - Pacoche / San Lorenzo
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast onboard, we will disembark in the harbor of Manta where a land transfer will take us to the Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche. Our first visit is to the tropical humid forest where we will hike through one of its trails to take a look at the community of howling monkeys who live in the middle of its exuberant vegetation.

Afterwards, we will go to San Lorenzo, one of the largest nesting spots for marine turtles in Ecuador, if we are lucky, we will get to see baby turtles on their way to the ocean during hatching season.

We will enjoy a special gastronomic experience in San Lorenzo using the manabita ancestral oven. After lunch, we will learn about the toquilla straw hat tradition with a local family of weavers from Pile. The small town of Pile is known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest and most expensive Toquilla straw hats in the world. We will be able to see firsthand how the hats are made. Incorrectly known as Panama Hats, the Toquilla Straw Hat was designated in 2012 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World.

Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Pacoche / San Lorenzo - Manta
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

7 Day - Christmas Expedition

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Our Expedition Leader will be waiting for you at Marina Pez Vela, in Quepos. After a short walk you will be embarking Kontiki Wayra for check-in.

Our Captain and crew will give you a warm welcome and our Concierge will oversee the welcome briefing and cabin assignment. Join us in the Sundeck as we sail to Biesanz Bay for a cocktail while we watch the spectacular sunset.

Safety and expedition briefing at night before our Welcome Dinner.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Marina Pez Vela - Quepos
Day
1 / 7

White-Water Rafting Class & Kayak Exploration

AM: After breakfast, a private transfer will pick you up at Marina Pez Vela for a 60-minute ride that will take us to Savegre River for a special White-Water Rafting Class. Savegre River offers II and III-class rapids in the purest waters of Costa Rica. Its bends and turns offer adrenaline and excitement to people of all ages and no previous experience in rafting is required. Prepare to admire exuberant flora and abundant fauna around, floating down and even hopping off your raft to swim in calmer waters. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Enjoy an afternoon of marine activities in Biesanz Bay with a kayak exploration of the surrounding area, snorkeling, paddle boarding, gliding with our Seabobs or enjoying our amazing oceanic club.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Savegre River
Day
2 / 7

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

AM: Arrive in Isla del Caño and disembark in a unique underwater expedition to discover one of the largest and best-preserved coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean. This island is not only an amazing spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, but it also has great conditions for the upbringing of young Humpback whales, and it is not uncommon to see them around during whale season (July - September). Enjoy a morning of a guided snorkeling expedition. Lunch is served onboard.

PM: Afternoon of marine activities with the oceanic club deployed: Slide, piers, sea bobs, kayaks, SUPs, island, etc. Dinner onboard. Overnight sailing to Drake Bay.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Caño Island
Day
3 / 7

Corcovado National Park

AM: Disembark in Corcovado National Park with a wet landing in the beach at La Sirena ranger station. The crown jewel of the South Pacific, Corcovado sits like an emerald crown on the Osa Peninsula. Renowned as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, its ancient rainforests teem with life. Towering trees pierce the sky, their limbs draped in emerald vines and vibrant bromeliads. Scarlet macaws flash through the canopy, their calls echoing through the humid air. Tapirs, elusive and shy, weave through the undergrowth, while spider monkeys swing acrobatically from branch to branch. Jaguars, the apex predators of these wild lands, stalk unseen, their presence a whisper on the forest floor. Lunch on board.

PM: Afternoon to relax onboard sailing to our next stop in Golfo Dulce, one of the four tropical fjords in the world. Dinner Onboard.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Corcovado National Park
Day
4 / 7

Cacao Farm Visit & Marine Activities

AM: Disembark in Puerto Jimenez harbor for a visit to Finca Kobo, a traditional Costa Rican cacao farm, which will be the setting for our journey through the history of Theobroma Cacao. During our hike we will learn about growing and harvesting Cacao and will be able to try the actual fruit directly from the tree. Witness the fascinating chocolate making process and indulge with a variety of tropical fruits and freshly made chocolate fondue. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Afternoon of marine activities and panga ride to spot the two types of dolphins that inhabit the gulf, and during whale season, we can also spot humpback whales with their calves as they come to warm waters to mate and reproduce.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Puerto Jiménez
Day
5 / 7

Private Beach Experience

AM: Welcome to Los Mogos and pamper yourself with a day to decompress from a week full of activities. Indulge in this secluded natural spa of calm waters while you relax and peacefully take your surroundings in for a well-deserved me-time. Admire the lush rainforest blending with the emerald waters ashore while you hear the crisp sound of the falling leaves, keeping an eye out for playful monkeys or macaws that inhabit the area. Private beach experience with a picnic and full bar service awaits. Oceanic club deployed. Lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon, we will have a guided Kayak expedition to the mangroves in the nearby Rio Esquinas to witness the breathtaking sunset that paints the horizon. Farewell Dinner will be served onboard.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Los Mogos
Day
6 / 7

Disembarkation

AM: Breakfast and check-out. Transfer to airport or nearby hotel from Marina Bahía Golfito.

Kontiki - Christmas Expedition
Location
Golfito
Day
7 / 7
1 / 7

7 Day - New Year's Expedition

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Our Expedition Leader will be waiting for you at Marina Golfito. After a short walk you will be embarking Kontiki Wayra for check-in. Our Captain and crew will give you a warm welcome and our Concierge will oversee the welcome briefing and cabin assignment. Join us in the Sundeck as we watch the spectacular sunset.

Safety and expedition briefing at night before our Welcome Dinner.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Golfito
Day
1 / 7

Natural Spa & Kayak Expedition

AM: Welcome to Los Mogos and pamper yourself with a day to decompress from a week full of activities. Indulge in this secluded natural spa of calm waters while you relax and peacefully take your surroundings in for a well-deserved me-time. Admire the lush rainforest blending with the emerald waters ashore while you hear the crisp sound of the falling leaves, keeping an eye out for playful monkeys or macaws that inhabit the area. Private beach experience with a picnic and full bar service awaits. Oceanic club deployed. Lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon, we will have a guided Kayak expedition to the mangroves in the nearby Rio Esquinas to witness the breathtaking sunset that paints the horizon. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Los Mogos
Day
2 / 7

Traditional Cacao Farm & Boruca Community Visits

AM: Disembark in Puerto Jimenez harbor for a visit to Finca Kobo, a traditional Costa Rican cacao farm, which will be the setting for our journey through the history of Theobroma Cacao. During our hike we will learn about growing and harvesting Cacao and will be able to try the actual fruit directly from the tree. Witness the fascinating chocolate making process and indulge with a variety of tropical fruits and freshly made chocolate fondue. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Afternoon workshop with members of the Boruca Community, one of the few indigenous communities left in Costa Rica. We will enjoy a hands-on experience painting their famous wooden masks as we learn about their traditions and its significance in their culture. Dinner Onboard.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Puerto Jimenez
Day
3 / 7

Corcovado National Park

AM: Disembark in Corcovado National Park with a wet landing in the beach at La Sirena ranger station. The crown jewel of the South Pacific, Corcovado sits like an emerald crown on the Osa Peninsula. Renowned as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, its ancient rainforests teem with life. Towering trees pierce the sky, their limbs draped in emerald vines and vibrant bromeliads. Scarlet macaws flash through the canopy, their calls echoing through the humid air. Tapirs, elusive and shy, weave through the undergrowth, while spider monkeys swing acrobatically from branch to branch. Jaguars, the apex predators of these wild lands, stalk unseen, their presence a whisper on the forest floor. Lunch on board. anchoring spot, Drake Bay.

PM: Afternoon to relax onboard sailing to our next Dinner Onboard.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Corcovado National Park
Day
4 / 7

Snorkeling and Scuba diving

AM: Arrive in Isla del Caño and disembark in a unique underwater expedition to discover one of the largest and best-preserved coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean. This island is not only an amazing spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, but it also has great conditions for the upbringing of young Humpback whales, and it is not uncommon to see them around during whale season (July - September). Enjoy a morning of two guided snorkeling expeditions. Scuba Diving is available for PADI certified divers (cost not included in the program). Lunch onboard.

PM: Afternoon of marine activities with the oceanic club deployed: Slide, piers, sea bobs, kayaks, SUPs, island, etc. Afternoon sailing to Quepos Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Caño Island
Day
5 / 7

White-Water Rafting Class & Marine Activities

AM: After breakfast, a private transfer will take us for a 60-minute ride to Savegre River for a special White-Water Rafting Class. Savegre River offers II and III-class rapids in the purest waters of Costa Rica. Its bends and turns offer adrenaline and excitement to people of all ages and no previous experience in rafting is required. Prepare to admire exuberant flora and abundant fauna around, floating down and even hopping off your raft to swim in calmer waters. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Enjoy an afternoon of marine activities in Biesanz Bay with a kayak exploration of the surrounding area, snorkeling, paddle boarding, gliding with our Sea bobs or enjoying our amazing oceanic club. Farewell Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Savegre River
Day
6 / 7

Disembarkation

AM: Breakfast and check-out. Transfer to airport or nearby hotel from Marina Pez Vela, Quepos.

Kontiki - New Year's Expedition
Location
Marina Pez Vela - Quepos
Day
7 / 7
1 / 7

8 Day - Pura Vida Costa Rica

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Arrive to Golfito airport.  Embark the yacht from Marina Bahía Golfito. Check-in onboard, welcome cocktail and briefing.  Sail to Golfo Dulce to start this week long adventure.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Golfo Dulce
Day
1 / 8

Dolphin Watching & Water Activities

AM: Arrive to los Mogos to embark in a full day of aquatic adventures. Soak in the serenity of the surrounding jungle, listening to the symphony of birdsong and the rustle of leaves as you glide effortlessly in a kayak or SUP, keeping an eye out for playful monkeys in the trees. Enjoy a morning of marine activities with our oceanic club deployed. Lunch onboard.

PM: In the afternoon, dive into the vibrant underwater world with a snorkeling adventure. Zodiac ride to spot the dolphins in the area. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Golfo Dulce
Day
2 / 8

Cacao Plantation & Chocolate Making Process

AM: Disembark in Puerto Jimenez for a visit to Palo Seco and start a journey through the history of Theobroma Cacao as we explore a plantation on a short hike. Witness the fascinating chocolate-making process and indulge in a variety of tropical fruits and freshly made chocolate fondue. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: Fun Afternoon of marine activities. Dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Puerto Jimenez
Day
3 / 8

Corcovado National Park

AM: Disembark in Corcovado National Park. La Sirena trail beckons, promising an awe-inspiring hike along the untamed coastal stretch. Passing La Sirena Ranger Station, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of secondary forest, where the symphony of nature harmonizes with breathtaking vistas of the mighty Pacific Ocean. Lunch on board.

PM: Afternoon sailing to Drake Bay.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Drake Bay
Day
4 / 8

Snorkeling in Isla del Caño

AM: Arrive in Isla del Caño. Imagine yourself transported to a paradise where vibrant coral reefs teem with colorful fish, gentle giants glide effortlessly through the turquoise waters, and sunlight dances on the surface like scattered diamonds. That's Isla Del Caño, a biological reserve off the coast of Costa Rica, waiting to unveil its underwater magic to you in snorkeling or scuba diving adventure.  Lunch onboard.

PM: Afternoon sailing to Manuel Antonio and surroundings.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Manuel Antonio
Day
5 / 8

White Water Rafting Class

AM: Arrive at Savegre River for a special White Water Rafting Class. Savegre River offers II and III-class rapids, its bends and turns offer adrenaline and excitement. During our trip, we will be able to admire exuberant flora and abundant fauna around you, floating down and even hopping off your rafting to swim in calmer waters. Lunch onboard.

PM: Afternoon at leisure. Alfresco Dinner.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Biesanz
Day
6 / 8

Relaxation Day

AM/PM: Marine activities at Biesanz Bay

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Biesanz Bay
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: Breakfast and check out at Marina Pez Vela.

Kontiki - Pura Vida
Location
Quepos
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - Spondylus Expedition Ecuador

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Our discovery journey of coastal Ecuador starts in Manta, one of the most important ports in the country and a strategic location for tourism in Manabí. This beach city is internationally known for its fishing industry, whose star product, tuna, is exported all over the world.

Our shuttle will take you to Manta’s port authority (TPM), from where we will board M/Y Kontiki Wayra for check-in and a welcome drink. Our concierge will introduce you to our crew members, go over the yacht areas and assign the staterooms that will become home for the next 8 days.

In the evening, we will enjoy a welcome dinner hosted by our executive chef onboard.

Kontiki's 8-Day Spondylus Expedition Itinerary Day One - Ecuadorian Cuisine onboard.
Location
Manta
Day
1 / 8

Ayangue & Machalilla National Park

AM: We start day 2 at Ayangue, a small coastal town also known as the Pool of the Pacific because of its calm waters. After breakfast onboard, we will depart in one of our tenders to nearby islet El Pelado for a snorkeling expedition. This is a unique opportunity to swim with the local community of sea lions and explore the submarine secrets of the area.

From June until October, this also becomes a privileged location to see humpback whales closely. By noon we will return to the yacht for marine activities in the ocean club and lunch onboard.

PM: After lunch we will disembark in the beach of Ayangue and after a short beachwalk we will arrive to a charming place where we will learn about the Valdivia culture. This is a millenary culture that maintains intact its pottery tradition, inherited from the pre-Inca Valdivia culture (4500 B.C.). We will learn about the techniques and materials used in making ancestral pieces as we make our own handcraft in a beautiful “experience in clay”. We will return to the yacht for dinner.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Machalilla National Park
Day
2 / 8

Agua Blanca Community

AM: After a hearty breakfast, we will disembark in Machalilla National Park where a land transfer will take us to Agua Blanca. This small community houses archeological pieces from one of the oldest civilizations in South America, the Manteño Culture, which dates back to the year 1500 A.C. Temples, country houses, typical ancient squares and other archeological remains are some of the treasures in Agua Blanca.

A short walk through its forest will show us butterflies, hummingbirds and local trees such as the algarrobos. During our visit, we will celebrate an ancestral ritual of purification and gratitude, that will connect us with nature and with ourselves, accompanied by the guidance of the shamans of the community. Return to the yacht for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we will enjoy a private beach experience in the islets of Machalilla National Park and will enjoy diverse marine activities such as snorkel, paddleboard, kayak or swim in our beach club which includes an oceanic pool, a water slide, SeaBobs, etc.

We will go back to the yacht to enjoy a beautiful sunset and dinner in the main deck*.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Machalilla National Park
Day
3 / 8

Isla de la Plata & Sunset Party

AM: After breakfast, we will start our activities with a wet landing in Isla de la Plata, which belongs to Machalilla National Park. Isla de la Plata holds beautiful natural treasures and a walk through its trails will take us to nesting areas of Blue Footed Boobies, Masked Boobies and Frigatebirds. After our land exploration, we will go back to the yacht for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we will do a guided underwater snorkeling expedition to learn about the marine ecosystem in the island. We will be able to see a variety of marine species including giant stingrays, whale sharks, and turtles.

During mating season, June to October, we will be able to see from the distance humpback whales that come to warmer waters to mate and give birth. Scuba diving is available upon request at the time of booking. In the afternoon we will enjoy a sunset party* with the freshest seafood of the area and our signature cocktails.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Pacoche - San Lorenzo
Day
4 / 8

Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche & San Lorenzo

AM: After breakfast onboard, we will disembark in the harbor of Manta where a land transfer will take us to the Refuge of Coastal Marine Wildlife Pacoche.

Our first visit is to the tropical humid forest where we will hike through one of its trails to take a look at the community of howling monkeys who live in the middle of its exuberant vegetation.

Afterwards, we will go to San Lorenzo, one of the largest nesting spots for marine turtles in Ecuador, if we are lucky, we will get to see baby turtles on their way to the ocean during hatching season.

We will enjoy a special gastronomic experience in San Lorenzo using the manabita ancestral oven. After lunch, we will learn about the toquilla straw hat tradition with a local family of weavers from Pile. The small town of Pile is known for the community of artisan weavers responsible for making the finest and most expensive Toquilla straw hats in the world. We will be able to see firsthand how the hats are made. Incorrectly known as Panama Hats, the Toquilla Straw Hat was designated in 2012 as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of the World.

PM: In the afternoon we will return to the yacht and enjoy some relaxing time and dinner onboard.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Bahía de Caráquez
Day
5 / 8

Puerto Amistad & Chocolate Tasting

AM: We start day 6 with breakfast onboard, before departing aboard our dinghies to Puerto Amistad in Bahía de Caráquez, where a land transfer will take us to Iche in San Vicente.

A gastronomic lab led by Fuegos Foundation, Iche was founded to educate local chefs in creating ‘haute cuisine' using ancestral techniques of food preparation.

A gastronomic farm to table experience hosted by local chefs that will reveal a mix of history, tradition and the unique flavors of coastal cuisine.

Cacao, salprieta, corviche, and chillangua are some of the local flavors that will add to our foodies' lexicon.

PM: In the afternoon, we will get back to the yacht to relax at the sundeck and later on in the evening guests will enjoy a chocolate tasting and dinner.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Bahía de Caráquez - Jaramijó
Day
6 / 8

Montecristi & Free time

AM: We will start our day with a hearty breakfast onboard. Our last day of activities is designed for guests to enjoy the coastline, marine activities and to do some local handcraft shopping. After breakfast we will disembark in the port of Jaramijó and head off to Montecristi, cradle of the Liberalism in Ecuador and an important production center for toquilla handcrafts and home goods.

In Montecristi we will visit Ciudad Alfaro, a historic building dedicated to General Eloy Alfaro, one of the most important political figures in the republican era of Ecuador.

After this visit to ciudad Alfaro, we will walk around Montecristi and their dozens of little shops featuring toquilla goods, such as tableware, bags, hair accessories, souvenirs, etc. This is a nice opportunity to do some local shopping. We will go back to the yacht for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we will have free time to enjoy marine activities, relax at the hot tub, enjoy some spa treatments, and participate in an onboard cooking class with our chef. Farewell dinner and cocktail onboard.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Jaramijó - Manta
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: We will say our goodbyes early in the morning, as your transfer to the airport will be awaiting at Manta’s Port Authority (TPM).

Check- out and transfer to Manta’s airport or hotel of your choice.

Kontiki - Spondylus Expedition
Location
Manta
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

Accommodations

Social Areas

Corridor
Pool
Top Deck
Sun Deck
Outdoor BBQ Area
Dining Salon
Indoor Lounge
Dining
Reading Area
Jacuzzi
Wine Cellar

Suites & Cabins

Kontiki - Porthole Stateroom
1 Cabin

Porthole Stateroom

Guests
2
Size
15 m² / 161 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Located in the lower deck with preferred access to the gym and spa. Interior staterooms are designed with a contemporary flair and the finest materials, for maximum comfort, a fitting complement to the beauty of the surroundings and the panoramic views that can be enjoyed from every corner.

Kontiki - Panoramic Stateroom Kontiki - Panoramic Stateroom Kontiki's Panoramic Luxury Stateroom. Kontiki's Panoramic Luxury Stateroom - Tea Set. Kontiki's Panoramic Luxury Stateroom - Details.
3 Cabins

Panoramic Stateroom

Guests
2
Size
13-19 m² / 140-204 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Located in the main deck. Interior access and panoramic windows. Panoramic luxury staterooms are designed with a contemporary flair and the finest materials, for maximum comfort, a fitting complement to the beauty of the surroundings and the panoramic views that can be enjoyed from every corner.

Kontiki's Veranda Luxury Stateroom - Double. Kontiki's Veranda Luxury Stateroom - Storage Area. Kontiki's Veranda Luxury Stateroom - Bathroom. Kontiki's Veranda Luxury Stateroom - Desk. Kontiki's Veranda Luxury Stateroom.
5 Cabins

Veranda Stateroom

Guests
2
Size
18 m² / 193 ft²
Beds
King / Twin

Located in the upper deck. Access through the outdoor gallery. Veranda luxury staterooms are designed with a contemporary flair and the finest materials, for maximum comfort, a fitting complement to the beauty of the surroundings and the panoramic views that can be enjoyed from every corner.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Connecting cabins
  • Air conditioning
  • Pool / Jacuzzi
  • Excercise room
  • Massage room
  • Lecture room
  • WIFI available
  • Kosher Meals
  • Children's playroom
  • Medical staff

Equipment

  • Diving gear
  • Satellite phone
  • Diving platform
  • Nitrox
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Wetsuits
  • Stand up paddleboard
  • Kayaks / Canoes
  • Wakeboard / Water Ski
  • Surf boards
  • Jet skis
  • Fishing equipment
  • Yoga mats
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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