Embark on a 4-day cruise that explores the highlights of the central islands of the Galapagos. Indulge yourself in the picturesque beauty of the unique landscape here. Relax on the beach, do some exploratory snorkeling, and wander to the hidden inlands. Be entertained by the antics of friendly sea lions, get up close and personal with the incredible giant tortoises, and participate in an endless list of activities to make this the most memorable trip ever.
Highlights
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and learn about giant tortoises
Observe land iguanas and the Cactus forest on South Plaza Island
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
After a flight from mainland Ecuador to Baltra airport, a guide will meet you and accompany you to the Itabaca Channel. From here cross the channel by barge and then continue to Puerto Ayora by bus to board the yacht. Enjoy a light snack and run through orientation before the first excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its Interpretive Center. Enjoy watching giant tortoises in their natural environment. Return to the port for a walk through the little town. There are various handicrafts made here. Then return to the boat for a welcome cocktail and dinner.
The first excursion of the day will be to Santa Fe Island to visit the cactus forest and a colony of land iguanas. For those who would like to swim, snorkel, and kayak, this is a great location to do so. Return to the yacht for lunch and sail to South Plaza, and enjoy the antics of the sea lions who make their home here. Observe land iguanas and many species of tropical birds while taking a walk through a cactus forest.
After breakfast, start the day with a trip to Chinese Hat (Sombrero Chino), a small island off the coast of Santiago Island. It got its name from the unique shape of the island that resembles a hat. Here you can observe Galapagos penguins, eagle rays, sea lions, and marine iguanas on the rocky shoreline. This is an excellent snorkeling site and there will be time for those who would like to swim, snorkel, and kayak.
Enjoy some lunch and then head to Rábida to walk and observe marine iguanas, sea lions, pelicans, blue-footed boobies, masked boobies, and brown pelicans. Walk to a small saltwater lagoon where the incredible pink flamingo can be observed. After this have the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing swim, do some exploratory snorkeling, or enjoy some easy snorkeling.
Day 4: Santa Cruz Island - Baltra
1 Breakfast
Start the day out with a panga ride on Black Turtle Cove. This is a series of mangrove-surrounded coves and islets. This is an excellent opportunity to observe white-tipped sharks, marine turtles, spotted eagle rays, and yellow cow-nosed rays. Return to the yacht to disembark and then be escorted by a guide to the airport for return to the mainland.
This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Galapagos Cruises & Tours.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Cabins 3-6
Cabin size: 12m²
4 lower deck cabins. Equipped with 2 Single Lower Beds (2x1m/each). Each cabin has a Private bathroom (toilet, shower, hair dryer, washbasin, vanity, hot and cold water), Locker and drawers, a Safety box, Air-conditioned, an Electric outlet 110v, and a USB port.
Cabins 7 & 8
Cabin size: 8.5m²
2 upper deck cabins. Equipped with 1 Double Bed (2x1.40m/each). Each cabin has a Private bathroom (toilet, shower, hair dryer, washbasin, vanity, hot and cold water), Locker and drawers, a Safety box, Air-conditioned, an Electric outlet 110v, and a USB port.
Cabins 9 & 10
Cabin size: 9.5m²
2 upper deck cabins. Equipped with 2 Single Lower Beds (2x1m/each). Each cabin has a Private bathroom (toilet, shower, hair dryer, washbasin, vanity, hot and cold water), Locker and drawers, a Safety box, Air-conditioned, an Electric outlet 110v, and a USB port.
Notes
Please reserve your wetsuit in advance prior to the trip.
Internal Galapagos flights included.
Child Discount
10% discount for children under age 12 at time of Galapagos cruise. Child discounts are conditional and may not apply on certain departures. Please contact us for more information.
Children under 12 may receive discounts on Galapagos flight fares and entrance fees. Contact us for details.
Initial deposit is 25% + Internal Flight Cost, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
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.
Wetsuits are not included but are available to rent on board - $35 short and $40 long size for 4-day tours; $40 short and $45 long size for 5-day tours; $45 short and $55 long size for 8-day tours; $70 short and $80 long size for 11-day tours; and $80 short and $90 long size for 15-day tours.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
