Mark Zuckerberg arrived in the Galapagos Islands aboard the Launchpad, a $300 million superyacht that quickly became a focal point in areas such as Puerto Ayora and Genovesa Island.
The vessel, used for travel to remote destinations, is accompanied by a support ship valued at $100 million. Together, they form a high-end fleet designed for extended voyages.
The Launchpad stands out for its size and design. Measuring 119 meters in length and 17 meters in width, it is larger than a football field and built for long-distance travel, with a range exceeding 3,000 nautical miles. It is powered by four diesel engines, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 20 knots.
Inside, the yacht features 13 guest cabins and 49 crew cabins, offering round-the-clock service. It is equipped with a helipad, infinity pool, gym, spa, jacuzzi, private cinema, and even a tennis court at the bow.
Operating the vessel comes at a high cost, with annual maintenance estimated at $30 million.
The yacht’s presence has also sparked criticism due to its environmental impact. At cruising speed, its emissions are comparable to hundreds of cars, and previous voyages have generated significant levels of carbon output. Fuel consumption has also been substantial, with hundreds of thousands of liters used during recent trips.
Despite the scrutiny, the vessel remained in the area near Genovesa Island during the visit, drawing continued attention from locals and visitors.