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[Blake]

We're going on a 3 night cruise on Explorer II in November and would like some advice pls on what to wear during the day. Do we need good walking shoes? Any help would be much appreciated. Should we take a snorkel, flippers, etc?
Thanks.

[Eagan]

Just got back from the 4 night cruise on the Galapagos Explorer II. Definately you need good walking shorts and good walking shoes. The hikes aren't strenuous necessarily, but some of the paths can be quite rocky. I think good balance is needed more than stamina. You should also have some type of shoe for the wet-landings....water shoes or Teva type sandels. I wouldn't bother taking the snorkel, flippers, etc as they are available for rent very cheaply on the boat (I think it was about $15 for everything for our entire cruise). That way, you don't have to be lugging around extra "stuff". You will love the Explorer II. The boat is very nice and the naturalists are just outstanding. The entire staff goes so out of their way to make sure the pasengers have a good time. I had read some reviews where people thought the food was mediocre and I have to completely disagree with that assessment. We thought the food was very good at every meal. There was a large selection and both quality and presentation were excellent. Make sure you try the Ceviche de Pulpo...it was the best I had in all of Ecuador. Have a wonderful time on this experience of a lifetime!