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About SmartVoyager™
A certification program designed by the Conservation and Development (C&D), an Ecuadorian environmental group with experience in nature tourism and ecolabels. Working with scientists, conservation experts, tour operators and others, C&D set standards for the maintenance and operation of the tour boats in the Galapagos Islands. Tour companies that wish to participate invite a team of specialists aboard their boats to evaluate the vessels according to the standards.
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Tourism operations in the Galapagos
(© Eric Holst)
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The standards cover the various potential sources of pollution, such as wastewater and fuels, and set rules for the management of everything from the docks to the small craft that ferry visitors ashore. Procurement and supply management guidelines are designed to minimize the chances of introducing alien species. The standards require good living conditions and advanced training for the boat crew and guides. Passengers must be given maximum opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the islands and the close encounters with wildlife while leaving no trace of their visit.
Once the tour operator brings a boat into compliance with the standards, the craft is "certified" and allowed to display the SmartVoyager seal of approval. This seal gives Galapagos visitors the assurance that they are traveling with an operator who cares about the conservation of the islands and has taken every measure to ensure that passengers enjoy a memorable, educational, mind-expanding and thrilling adventure without harming wildlife or this special environment.
"The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well deserves attention." Charles Darwin, 1845.
For more information: smartvoyager@ra.org
SmartVoyager
About SmartVoyager
About C&D | Program Launch
Objectives: English | En Español
Advisory Committee & Project Team
Certification Standards: English | En Español
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Contact the Rainforest Alliance: canopy@ra.org
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