Depart U.S. and arrive Guayaquil by late evening; it’s a short drive to Hotel Hilton Colón, where we spend the night.

Note that flights are not included.

After the 1 1⁄2-hour flight to the Galápagos, we’ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service.(B, L, D)

The following is a representative sample of the islands we may visit during your week on board:    Bartolomé This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins.   Santiago Santiago offers close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island’s countless tide pools.   Santa Cruz Home to the Charles Darwin Research station; learn about the science done here and visit the neighboring captive breeding program for endangered species of Galápagos giant tortoises, run by their partners in conservation, the Galápagos National Park Service.
Isabela A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep water snorkeling opportunities are on offer.   Fernandina This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.   Floreana Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles.   Española The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colorful marine iguanas, Española is also a paradise for Darwin’s finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island’s lovely beaches. (B,L,D Daily)

San Cristobal
Wet landing on a green, olivine beach for a hike and spectacular scenery—tuff stone cliffs “worked” by sea and wind. Zodiac rides along the coastline reveal blue-footed and red-footed boobies. Kayaking, swimming from the beach and snorkeling from Zodiacs off an islet in the bay are all options. In the afternoon—more opportunities for snorkeling and Zodiac adventures. And in between the sights & activities, life aboard our expedition ships is rich and varied—marvelous meals to enjoy in an always-casual ambience. Engaging talks by our Naturalists are part of the Daily recap ritual that binds our expedition community and increases the fun. Socializing with staff and fellow guests, or retreating to one of the ship’s nooks & crannies with a good book is always an option. as is reserving a relaxing massage or revitalizing Wellness treatment.

Disembark and fly to Guayaquil. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight Hotel Hilton Colón. (B)

This morning fly home. (B)