We travelled independently so all research was done on the Internet. My husband had specific criteria regarding the type of boat as he now suffers from claustrophobia and therefore a cabin below deck or with just a port hole was out of the question. I found the Athala and what a find! A beautiful catarmaran with only 16 guests. Capitano and crew were superb in every way, helpful, nothing too much bother, and looked after us impeccably. Food was excellent throughout, chef cooking breakfast every day, always greeted from an excursion with freshly made drinks, often local fruit juice never before heard of, and home baked nibbles and always a choice at dinner. Champagne for crossing the equator on the bridge with the Captain.
We had a lovely cabin, huge bed, private balcony, small but great as you could have the door open all night if you wish and the bathroom was stocked with eco friendly toiletries.
Every day we had 2 excursions ashore, each island offering different wildlife and fauna. The guide was knowledgable and fun too as were the people we shared the boat with. As well as swimming with the sea lions we had them sleeping on the back steps and one night one brave lady sea lion came onto the boat in the middle of the night. Naughty girl but I was able to coax her off the boat before doing too much damage.
I really can't recommend this experience enough, we had a fantastic time but beware you definatly need wetsuits in December! I believe there is now a new sister catarmaran called Nina so perhaps after our lottery win (pending!) we will try her.