HERMES

Some people find their place in the world by following a map. Others find it by listening to a calling. For Gabriela, hospitality was never just a job-it was a path that called to her from an early age. Born in mainland Ecuador and raised with a deep appreciation for culture, service, and detail, Gabriela studied tourism and quickly immersed herself in the world of guest experience. With over a decade of experience in expedition cruising, Gabriela has led hotel operations aboard multiple vessels earning a reputation for calm leadership, high standards, and a naturally empathetic touch. Whether coordinating reservations, managing boutique service, mentoring staff, or ensuring that every guest'sv experience feels personal, Gabriela brings heart and precision to everything she does. She now serves as Hotel Director on the ultra-luxury mega catamaran Hermes, where she blends her operational expertise with an intuitive approach to guest care. Certified by the National Merchant Marine School in crowd management, emergency response, and maritime hospitality, she brings both rigor and warmth to every voyage. Fluent in Spanish and English, Gabriela connects effortlessly with travelers from around the world. Her time working abroad-including a key leadership role in the U.S.-has further re-fined her sense of global service and cultural awareness. On Hermes, Gabriela ensures that every detail reflects the vessel's promise of excellence. With warmth, discipline, and grace, she leads by example, making sure each guest feels not only welcomed, but remembered.

A ship is only as steady as the hand that guides it. For Milton Israel Cruz, that hand is shaped by decades of maritime experience, a deep respect for the sea, and an unwavering commitment to safety and leadership. Born in Ecuador and trained by the National Merchant Marine School, Captain Cruz has navigated the Galapagos and other Pacific waters for over 20 years. His expertise spans cargo vessels, expedition yachts, and luxury catamarans-each with its own challenges, rhythms, and rewards. As Captain of the ultra-luxury mega catamaran Hermes, he holds ultimate responsibility for the vessel's operations, crew, and guest safety. His leadership style blends calm authority with technical precision, ensuring that every voyage is as smooth as it is secure. Guests may meet him briefly on the bridge or during a welcome toast, but his presence is always felt-whether through safe passage during an ocean crossing or a perfectly timed anchorage beside a remote islet. His certifications in advanced navigation, maritime safety, and Galapagos conservation regulations make him a steward not only of the ship, but of the environment it sails in. Captain Cruz is more than a navigator-he is the quiet force behind each successful journey, ensuring that Hermes remains not just a vessel, but a sanctuary at sea.

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 maitre d'hotes. 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.

Some people serve. Others elevate the very meaning of service. Angel Lacruz belongs to the second group-an intuitive host whose natural charm, attention to detail, and passion for excellence create unforgettable moments aboard Hermes. Trained in restaurant and bar management, Angel brings over a decade of experience to his role as Butler aboard the ultra-luxury mega catamaran. His background includes working in upscale restaurants, private events, and high-end hotels, where he developed a mastery of anticipatory service and guest personalization. On Hermes, Angel is more than a butler, he's a personal guide through the guest experience. From unpacking luggage to arranging in-suite dining, preparing jacuzzis with champagne and strawberries, or assisting with spa treatments and special requests, he ensures that every detail reflects the guest's preferences and the vessel's high standards. Fluent in Spanish and English, Angel moves seamlessly between cultures and expectations. His toolkit includes certifications in service excellence and wine knowledge, but it's his emotional intelligence that truly sets him apart. In every suite he manages, he brings a quiet elegance, a warm presence, and the confidence that every need will be met-even before it is voiced.

Professional in culinary arts with solid experience in hot and cold kitchens, pastry, bakery, and fine dining. Her career has evolved from assistant to leadership positions, currently serving as Chef aboard Hermes. She leads the kitchen team ensuring elegant presentation, consistent quality, and creative menus based on premium local and international ingredients. Passionate about customer satisfaction, she adapts to special diets and maintains high hygiene and operational standards on board.

Culinary professional with solid experience in both hot and cold kitchens, including breakfast and a la carte service. Currently serves as Sous Chef aboard the Hermes luxury mega catamaran in the Galapagos Islands, supporting the Executive Chef in the preparation, plating, and execution of menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. He is meticulous with hygiene standards and procedures, works efficiently under pressure, and contributes with responsibility and commitment to the kitchen's smooth operation.

Juan Gabriel Pino has been serving excellence long before he ever set foot on yachts. With more than two decades of experience across luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and international ships, he brings seasoned elegance to every pour and every plate. Trained at the Escuela de los Chefs in Guayaquil, Juan Gabriel's early years were shaped by Ecuador's vibrant hospitality scene. He built a reputation for service excellence at some of the country's most prestigious restaurants and resorts before expanding his horizons to the world of luxury cruising. Today, he serves as steward aboard Hermes, where his charm, precision, and product knowledge elevate every guest interaction. Whether crafting a classic Negroni or guiding guests through a curated wine pairing, Juan Gabriel's goal is always the same: to exceed expectations with warmth and professionalism. Fluent in Spanish and proficient in English, he navigates diverse guest interactions with ease. His work ethic is matched only by his passion for the craft; a passion that comes through in every cocktail, every recommendation, and every carefully prepared table setting.

With a background in hospitality and more than 15 years of experience in food and beverage service, Allan Proano brings a steady hand and a refined touch to the Hermes team. From high-end restaurants in Quito to vessels navigating the Galapagos, Allan has developed a deep knowledge of cocktails, wine service, and fine dining protocols. As Bartender & Server aboard Hermes, Allan ensures that each guest receives not only a perfectly mixed drink, but also warm, attentive service. He is precise, respectful, and methodical, qualities that make him a reliable presence in both bar and restaurant settings. Fluent in Spanish and English, Allan excels in structured environments where consistency and professionalism are paramount. He is calm under pressure, confident with guests, and committed to maintaining the elegant standards that define the Hermes onboard experience.

Michelle is licensed in physical therapy with a specialisation in physical and medical rehabilitation. She has worked in physiotherapy centers and spas, combining therapeutic massage techniques, relaxation, and physical well-being with sensitivity and personalized attention. Michelle offers massages tailored to each guest's needs with a range of treatments. Her service combines professionalism, empathy, and technical knowledge in an exclusive wellness environment.

Precision. Cleanliness. Discipline. For Mirla Rodriguez, these are not just qualities, they are her signature. With years of experience in housekeeping and utility support aboard ships and on land, Mirla ensures that every suite aboard Hermes meets the highest standards of order and hygiene. She is meticulous in her routines, preferring everything to be in its place and done just right. From aligning bathroom amenities to perfectly tucking in bed corners, Mirla treats each suite as a reflection of her personal commitment to excellence. Guests may never see her at work, but they always feel the results: an immaculate, welcoming space prepared with care. Her reliability and self-discipline make her an essential part of the Hermes housekeeping team someone who can be counted on to deliver the same high standard every single day. In a world where details matter, Mirla ensures none are ever missed.

Mercedes Rendon brings over a decade of dedication to the craft of hospitality. Onboard Hermes, she combines experience with consistency, ensuring that every suite is impeccable and every task completed with pride. Her background includes years of service in hotel housekeeping and maritime support roles, where she mastered the rhythms of guest turnover, deep cleaning, and coordination with laundry and supply teams. Her practical mindset and methodical approach make her particularly effective in maintaining standards over multi-day charters. Mercedes is dependable, discreet, and deeply respectful of the space she manages. She takes satisfaction in details-crisp sheets, shining glassware, and perfectly aligned amenities. With her, cleanliness isn't just a task, it's a statement of care.

Harry is a dedicated naturalist guide from the Galápagos Islands, proudly representing a third-generation lineage born in this unique paradise. Since 1996, as a naturalista guide, he has been sharing my passion and knowledge of the natural world with visitors from around the globe. His deep-rooted connection to the islands and extensive experience allow me to offer unparalleled insights into the rich biodiversity and intricate ecosystems of the Galápagos. Committed to conservation and education, he strives to provide each guest with an unforgettable and enriching experience that fosters a greater appreciation for the wonders of nature.

Ecuadorian born, Ceci spent 15 years living in Toronto, Canada, where she earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. After moving back to Ecuador, she completed a training program with the Galapagos National Park Service and the Charles Darwin Research Station, where she obtained her Naturalist Guide license and guided for nine years, until 2001. She took a break to have two children but returned to work in the islands in 2010. She is an open water Scuba diver, a guide trainer on Thematic Interpretation, and has a bachelor's degree in education. Ceci's favorite activity while guiding is snorkeling, but she also has a special interest in reptiles and is enthusiastic about sharing the Galapagos - the place she loves best. "I feel blessed and honoured to work in one of the most pristine places on Earth"

Considered one of the brightest guides in his cohort, Pablo was born and raised on Isabela island, the largest of the Galapagos Islands, Since his childhood, he has been deeply connected with the Galapagos Islands and their wildlife. Pablo specialises in birdwatching and also loves snorkeling to spot new species of marine animals and surfing. "Being a guide in Galápagos is the best job there is, Being able to teach all the wonders you grew up with and lived alongside to other people is the best, It is rewarding to share my knowledge with all the guests who come to Galápagos and leave them with the seed of conservation in their lives"