Country Article / Postcards
Galaxy Wave is Dead…Long Live Galaxy Wave II
Date: 10/27/2006I am very happy to report that the Galaxy Wave has retired. I spent many a day--and weathered more than a few rough seas--aboard her on the crossing between Roatan and La Ceiba. She did her job well, but her time to retire was long overdue.
We’ve waited for this for a long time, but Roatan now has a new ferry. The Galaxy Wave II is bigger, better, sleeker, smoother, and much faster than her sister vessel. Janine and I attended the inauguration of the Galaxy Wave II at her new home base--the brand-spanking-new ferry terminal here on Roatan. Afterward, we climbed aboard for a sea tour along the island’s south shore.
We’re boatin’ now. Galaxy Wave II offers additional seating in both first class and the general passenger areas, as well as more outside seating, plus a special VIP area. It’s a dual-hull boat powered by jet drive.
Let me tell you--she can get up and go, even with her 460-passenger maximum.
I rode “The Wave” (as we call the ferry) to La Ceiba this week and I was impressed with her overall character. The seats recline perfectly; before I knew it, I was fast asleep like a baby in a rocking cradle. A relaxing way to spend time. They’ve managed to shave about 40 minutes off the sea time--it now takes but 80 minutes to complete the crossing between the island and the mainland.
The fares have gone up slightly, but this baby is worth it. The ferry trip costs less than flying, and leaves (mostly) on time. A round-trip prima class ticket costs $53; round-trip general class, $43. Both prima and general seating areas are comfortable and offer flat-screen TVs for your entertainment.
Happy Boating,
Ron Goben
For International Living in Honduras