Originally from Chone, in the coastal province of Manabi, Jolme Alava brings to Hermes a quiet strength forged over decades of dedication to life at sea, With a deep sense of responsibility and technical mastery, he has served as Chief Engineer on a wide range of expedition vessels throughout the Galapagos, keeping ships moving and operations running smoothly, even in the most remote corners of the archipelago.
Jolme is a certified marine engineer with extensive training in crisis management, passenger safety, navigation protocols, rescue operations, and onboard systems for fuel and propulsion, But beyond certifications, what defines him is his steadiness under pressure, his respect for teamwork, and his behind–the–scenes commitment to excellence.
Guests may never see the engine room, but thanks to Jolme, they feel its impact–reliability, silence, and the comfort of knowing that every technical detail has been cared for, His loyalty, discipline, and profound maritime knowledge make him not only the guardian of Hermes' heart below deck, but also an essential part of the soul of each voyage.
Jolme Alava Santana
Chief engineer
Born and raised in Ecuador, David's relationship with hospitality began in the kitchen, where his natural creativity and love for sharing memorable moments found their first expression through food, Over the years, what began as a culinary calling evolved into a full–fledged passion for leading teams, creating experiences, and building meaningful connections through service.
With more than 15 years of experience across Ecuador's most renowned fine dining restaurants, five–star hotels, and expedition vessels, David has shaped his career with depth and authenticity, From his time as Executive Chef aboard a luxury cruise ship to leading operations at some of the country's most exclusive properties, he has cultivated an unwavering commitment to excellence, Guests and colleagues alike recognize him for his precision, calm leadership, and genuine warmth,
Now pursuing a Master's degree in Business Administration, David blends strategic thinking with hands–on expertise, ensuring that every detail–from a dish's presentation to an entire dining operation–reflects care and purpose, Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, he brings not only technical mastery but a soulful, guest–centered philosophy to the Hermes experience, He is, above all, someone who believes in the power of hospitality to surprise, delight, and leave a lasting impression.
David Barriga Orellana
Head Chef
Originally from Quito, Alexis carries with him the charm of someone who genuinely enjoys making people feel cared for, His journey in hospitality began more than a decade ago and has been marked by dedication, growth, and a deep respect for the art of service, Whether in the refined atmosphere of five–star hotels or the dynamic elegance of luxury cruise ships, Alexis has built a reputation as someone who delivers excellence quietly, intuitively, and always with heart,
Trained in enology, mixology, barista service, and etiquette, Alexis has an exceptional eye for detail, He understands that luxury is not loud–it's felt in the temperature of a towel, the timing of a room service tray, or the way a guest's favorite drink appears before it's even requested, Fluent in English and naturally discreet, he brings emotional intelligence and poise to every guest interaction,
What guests remember most about Alexis is his warmth and sense of presence, He doesn't just serve–he reads the room, listens deeply, and adapts with grace, Onboard Hermes, he embodies the spirit of the modern butler¦ thoughtful, anticipatory, and deeply proud to be part of something truly exceptional
Alexis Garzón Lara
Steward
Born in Guayaquil and shaped by the rhythm of the Galapagos, Alexander is someone who naturally understands how to make others feel welcome, seen, and valued, With over ten years of experience in high–end hospitality, his journey through some of the archipelago's most iconic exclusive properties and luxury cruise ships has given him a deep appreciation for detail, elegance, and human connection,
Alexander has grown within the industry, mastering roles as waiter, bartender, and maître d,' But more than titles, what defines him is the quiet pride he takes in his work: the grace with which he recommends a wine pairing, the care in crafting a cocktail, or the way he anticipates a guest's unspoken need, He is certified in maritime safety, professionally trained in mixology and wine service, and fluent in English–yet it is his natural empathy, consistency, and warmth that truly set him apart,
Onboard Hermes, Alexander is not only a skilled professional, but a calm and reassuring presence, He brings with him a quiet charisma and a deep–seated belief that hospitality is not just service, but a chance to create beautiful, lasting memories.
Alexander Ordóñez López
Steward
Born in Guayaquil and now based in Santa Cruz, Captain Julio Pachay brings more than two decades of maritime experience to the helm of Hermes, His deep connection to the sea began early and has only grown stronger through years spent navigating the waters of the Galapagos with precision, respect, and unwavering responsibility,
Calm, composed, and quietly confident, Captain Pachay has served as master of several luxury expedition yachts, where his leadership has guided not just the ship, but also the teams and guests who travel aboard, Trained through the national maritime academy and certified in advanced safety, radar operations, GMDSS communications, medical care at sea, and search and rescue, he combines technical expertise with genuine care for those under his command,
What truly defines Captain Pachay is his steady presence and his deep–seated sense of duty–not just to the vessel, but to the people aboard it, Guests often note the serenity he inspires, knowing they are in capable hands, On Hermes, he ensures every journey through the archipelago is not only safe and seamless, but also filled with wonder, discovery, and the timeless rhythm of the ocean.
Julio Pachay Mora
Captain
.
.
.
Originally from Guayaquil and deeply connected to the Galapagos, Michael is someone who has let the rhythm of the sea shape not only his career but also his way of life, With more than a decade of experience sailing across the archipelago and beyond, he has found purpose in creating calm, joy, and excellence for those who journey by sea,
Michael's path began in business management and hotel engineering, but it's in the warmth of hospitality where he truly thrives, His journey has taken him through roles as bartender, waiter, food & beverage assistant, and ultimately cruise director–leading teams and caring for guests aboard several luxury cruise ships, He is fluent in English, speaks conversational Italian, and brings a quiet, organised energy to every aspect of onboard life,
What sets Michael apart is not just his credentials or maritime certifications, but the genuine pride he takes in service, Whether coordinating a smooth embarkation or remembering a guest's favorite drink, he moves with intention and grace, On board Hermes, Michael is more than a cruise professional–he's a storyteller, a steady hand, and a trusted presence who ensures each guest feels seen, safe, and special
Michael Palacios Vidal
Chief steward/ess
.
Price: $246,905 - $300,195 / Per Week
Length: 164' 1" Ft
Guests: 20
Speed: 12 Knots
Cabins: 12
Build year: 2025
Crew: 19
