At the completion of our 5-day cruise aboard the Legend, my mother and I had planned to spend two nights in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz to continue our Galapgaos experience and have one more day for an excursion. A lot of travelers will extend their time on land in the Galapagos for scuba diving excursions or to do a specific day trip that their cruise didn't cover. It's a great way to see the local culture, go out to eat, stock up on souvenirs, and move at your own pace.
Going out to local restaurants is one of my favorite things about traveling, so I reveled in the opportunity to go big - lobster! Please and thank you!
One final vacation dinner in Puerto Ayora! (Jenna Fedyschyn)
We were able to fit a lot into our one full free day on Santa Cruz! Along with our guide, we started the day with a kayaking tour of the lava channels near Puerto Ayora. This involved fighting against some pretty strong waves initially, so it's not for the faint of heart. I was struck by the stunning turquoise water and the lack of crowds with just a 15-minute kayak trip from town.
Kayaking from Puerto Ayora in the lava channels (Jenna Fedyschyn)
We also enjoyed a short walk / easy hike (1.5 miles) to Tortuga Bay - most cruises do not visit this site, so it makes a great addition to any free day in Santa Cruz. It was the closest thing to a white sand beach I was able to find in the Galapagos. As I've said before, don't go to the Galapagos if your main goal is to just relax on the beach and sip cocktails - you'll spend much less money doing that elsewhere - but for two hours in a free afternoon? Perfect.
White sand beach at Tortuga Bay (Jenna Fedyschyn)
The main thing to keep in mind if extending on land pre- or post-cruise is that it will require extra logistical coordination, time, and flexibility on your part. If just doing the cruise, all of your group airport transfers are included, and you're corralled from place to place by the ship operator - very little thought required on your part. Just follow orders! If extending on land, you'll likely have to remind the ship's crew that you're straying from the group logistics, take a taxi (or arrange a private transfer) from the airport into town, and take a bit more ownership of your schedule to make sure you're in the right place at the right time. If that doesn't deter you, extending on land in the Galapagos is a great way to complement your cruise experience!
We received an immediate response from Kassandra who reserved our cruise as soon as she got a confirmation from us. Maria and Jess also were in touch right away.
Lynda Wallach
1 week ago
It is so easy to book trips, the staff is very friendly and helpful and they respond to any and all questions
Lorretta
1 week ago
Mary was super helpful and patient. Answered every question and with candor (answers of “Everything’s equally great” aren’t helpful! 😎).
TMort
1 week ago
The trip planner I worked with, Jane, was excellent. She had travelled to Antarctica twice and was the voice of experience as she explained travel options to me. I've travelled internationally for many years for many years for business and pleasure including a number of adventure trips. It is a delight to work with such an experienced planner. I've used Adventure Life for three trips, Costa Rica, Galapagos and upcoming, Antarctica. I highly recommend them.
Chuck Snavely
2 weeks ago
Clara was great to work with. She presented lots of options and always responded promptly. And she found excellent options within our price range.