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Galapagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage

Ecuador Roundtrip - Example 10 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Delfina
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Embark on an extraordinary 10-day cruise through the Galapagos Islands aboard National Geographic Delfina. Discover unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes across North Seymour, Bartolome, Santiago, Isabela, Fernandina, Española, Floreana, Santa Cruz, Genovesa, and San Cristobal. Explore volcanic wonders, snorkel among vibrant marine life, and witness species such as Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants. Your travel culminates in Guayaquil or Quito, offering an opportunity to reflect on this unforgettable adventure.
Marine Iguana in the Galapagos IslandsWitness the Kicker Rock in the GalapagosKayak through the clear blue waters of the Galapagos Islands.Flamingo LagoonGalapagos beachIsabela rock with birdsWildlife in the GalapagosSea lions bask in the sun on the beachCurious blue footed boobyGiant Tortoise
Highlights
  • Explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos Islands
  • Discover the playful Galapagos sea lions on North Seymour Island
  • Witness the strange flightless cormorant on Fernandina Island
  • Visit the giant tortoise breeding corrals on Santa Cruz
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador

Upon arrival in Quito Ecuador, the capital city in the Andes, enjoy a transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. Major international airlines serve Quito, and all Galápagos flights depart from and return to the city. Select from several hotel options, including a conveniently located airport hotel.

Operational Update: Beginning January 15, 2027, all voyage operations will be routed via Quito. Existing bookings via Guayaquil on or before this date, including charter and group departures, will be honored as confirmed. 

Day 2: Quito | Fly to the Galapagos | Embark

Fly to the Galapagos and board National Geographic Delfina. Discover the islands and their unique wildlife.

Day 3-8: Galapagos Islands

Below are a selection of islands you may visit during your expedition. Itineraries are subject to Galapagos National Park regulations.
 
North Seymour
Follow coastal trails past playful Galapagos sea lions on this wildlife-rich central island. Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees, where frigatebirds nest, blue-footed boobies dance, and where you may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus.

Bartolome
Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim, and snorkel from the beach. Catch a glimpse of Galápagos penguins, one of the world’s rarest.  

Santiago
Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard along Santiago’s spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked.

Isabela
Cross the Equator at Volcan Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins, sea turtles, and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over two days, land in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, and look for wildlife along the wildly eroded volcanic shore.

Fernandina
One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in the Galapagos — and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galapagos penguins, and the largest marine iguanas. Hikes ashore lead across impressive recent lava flows.

Española
See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies, and, seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatross at this bird paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the white sand beach, and snorkel offshore at Gardner Bay. 

Floreana
Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon sometimes frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the historic mail barrel at Post Office Bay.

Santa Cruz
Visit Puerto Ayora, the largest town and headquarters of both the Galapagos National Park and Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George, and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. Witness the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands.

Genovesa
Sail across the Equator to the remote northern realm of the Galápagos into this flooded caldera, home to over one million seabirds. Visit Prince Philip’s Steps at the top of the island. Highlights along the trail are many, from Nazca, red- and blue-footed boobies and frigates, to gulls, owls, fur seals, hammerhead sharks, turtles, and manta rays. 

San Cristobal
Walk along the powdery white sand at a gorgeous beach fronted by iconic Kicker Rock. Explore Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions thrive in the middle of town.

Day 9: Galapagos Islands | Disembark | Quito

Disembark this morning and join the recommended flight to Quito; transfers to the airport and luggage assistance is provided. Pick from several options in Quito, including a convenient airport hotel. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. You may be able to take advantage of overnight flights home.

The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. You may be able to take advantage of overnight flights home. Ask your expedition specialist about Peru, Quito and other post-voyage options.

Day 10: Quito | Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and board flights home, unless you have arranged for additional nights or an extension.

Departure Time: Anytime on day 10, or anytime after 7:00 p.m. local time on day 9

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Delfina

Cruise aboard National Geographic Delfina

National Geographic Delfina

Experience the Galapagos Islands on the National Geographic Delfina, launching in early 2025. This luxurious catamaran offers refined and stable cruising, accommodating 16 guests in eight spacious, air-conditioned staterooms. Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air Observation Deck, a whirlpool hot tub, and al fresco dining on the Upper Deck.
Ship facade
Observation Deck
Outdoor Cafe

Quito - Hotels

Hacienda Jimenita facade

Hacienda Jimenita

Located just 15 minutes away from the airport. Hacienda Jimenita Naturhotel & Wildlife Reserve is a beautifully-maintained hacienda that provides a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush nature. With a range of grand and comfortable rooms on offer, guests can enjoy a luxurious stay, with access to WiFi internet in all guest rooms and common areas.
Hotel Facade

Holiday Inn Quito Airport

Holiday Inn Quito Airport is just 5 minutes from Mariscal Sucre International Airport and 30 minutes from Quito’s business district, offering 125 modern rooms, an executive lounge with mountain views, a free airport shuttle, outdoor pool, gym, spa, complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a pet-friendly policy, and an on-site restaurant.
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Swissotel

Swissotel Quito

Swissotel Quito is one of the city's main five-star luxury hotels, conveniently located in the Floresta district of Quito, a commercial and residential area, just 45 minutes from Mariscal Sucre International Airport.
Quito, Ecuador

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Dates & Prices

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Deals

50% Reduced Deposit 31597
Book by August 18, 2026 and enjoy a 50% reduced deposit on voyages departing from October 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. Valid for new bookings only. The remaining deposit balance is due at final payment, and standard cancellation policies apply. Offer is subject to availability, excludes airfare and extensions, cannot be combined with other promotions, and may be withdrawn without prior notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
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15% Savings 31894
Book your cruise by August 6, 2026 and take advantage of 15% savings on all 2026 voyages. Offer is valid on new bookings only and subject to availability. May be withdrawn at any time without prior notice, not applicable on airfare or extensions, and may not be combined with other offers. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.
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Per person starting at
$9,100 2-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Cabin Category 4
Category 4
The four Upper Deck staterooms, which can be reserved as interconnected ports and starboards for friends and family, have ensuite bathrooms, and ample storage, and can be set up with either queen or two twin beds. Staterooms are 172 square feet with a large window, and door that opens directly onto the outside deck.
Cabin Category 5
Category 5
The four main-deck staterooms have private balconies, ensuite bathrooms, and ample storage, and can be set up with either queen or two twin beds. Staterooms are 172 square feet with a 43-square-foot balcony, seating, and two large windows.

Child Discount

Children under 12 may receive discounts on Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. Contact us for details.
Included
  • 9 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 9 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions and airport transfers to and from flights arriving and departing within recommended window, as indicated in the itinerary
  • Exploration tools such as snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, stand-up paddleboard, cross-country skis, and snowshoes (where applicable)
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore.
  • Presentations by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Onboard physician consultations (where available)
  • 24-hour access to exercise equipment (where applicable)
  • All accommodations aboard ship or in hotels per itinerary
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library, and other shared spaces
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Galapagos Park Entrance Fee: $200 per adult, $100 per child under 12. Subject to increase by Galapagos Park Service.
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included); charter airfare (where applicable, except when indicated as included); pre- and post-expedition extensions (except flights when indicated as included); additional hotel nights (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
  • Private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Gratuities for the Crew

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