The M/V Nortada is one of the latest additions to the liveaboard fleet in the Galapagos archipelago, and it’s quickly raking up positive reviews. Built in France by naval builder Guy Couach, Nortada was completely rebuilt and refitted as a private liveaboard charter boat for small groups of up to eight (8) divers.   The ship offers an 8-day/7-night Galapagos diving itinerary that includes the world-famous Wolf and Darwin island diving sites. In addition to up to 20 dives, this voyage includes a total of three (3) land visits and Galapagos trekking excursions. Some of the specialized features offered by the Nortada include a full re-breather and technical support, photo and video-oriented departures, citizen science programs maintained in partnership with leading research institutions, and private celebrity expeditions. On occasion, there are fun departures of groups of friends and families. Whatever the reason, it’s definitely an exceptional choice when looking to charter a diving cruise in Galapagos.   Nortada offers four lower-deck fully air-conditioned cabins, each with two single lower berths, private bathrooms, safety deposit boxes, lockers and drawers. The boat also features an extended occupancy option for up to 10 people (the additional guests can be accommodated in the four full-size upper berths available in every one of the four cabins). The scuba platform has ample benches, outside showers, camera tables and re-breather rinsing facilities. On the upper deck, the sundeck is next to the flybridge, while two 15-foot inflatable tenders with 25HP outboard engines take fully equipped divers to and from the dive site. Public areas consist of a main deck with a bridge, the galley, an air-conditioned dining room, and a lounge.   For an optimal experience, all divers are provided with a Nautilus Lifeline bi-directional VHF/DSC marine radio with GPS, dive alert, and DSMB. The 20 Nitrox compatible aluminum 80 cu. ft./12-liter cylinders are filled by one of the twin Nuvair LP/HP Compressors. Two Nuvair nitrox analyzers are available onboard, as are redundant re-breathers available upon request, oxygen-clean Haskell Sport Boosters, one Tri Hunter 3000 gas mixing stick for Trimix blending, several nitrox compatible 40 cu. ft. / 6-liter aluminum stage cylinders, several 19 cu. ft. / 2-liter steel re-breather cylinders with various valves, and one Analytical Industries Trimix Analyzer.   The crew to guest ratio is 1:1! This ensures the most personalized service possible. With all this, there’s no wonder the Nortada is a top pick among the best diving ships in the Galapagos Islands. The 8-member crew consists of the captain, a multilingual guide, engineer, international cook, and two sailors on all full departures, and one PADI dive instructor who assists as the dive leader. As for the yacht itself, despite its rather young age, it possesses some of the most skilled and knowledgeable professions in the region.   Already feel like taking a deep plunge into the alluring underwater sea world? Then let’s talk! We’re not inviting you to a conventional scuba tour, but to a diving safari in the Galapagos Islands!