BALTRA AIRPORT –
LAS BACHAS (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)

AM – PRINCE PHILIP’S STEPS (GENOVESA ISLAND)
PM – DARWIN BAY (GENOVESA ISLAND)

AM – JAMES BAY (SANTIAGO ISLAND)
PM – NAVIGATION TO ISABELA ISLAND

AM – PUNTA VICENTE ROCA (ISABELA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA VICENTE ROCA (FERNANDINA ISLAND)

AM – TAGUS COVE (ISABELA ISLAND)
PM – URBINA BAY (ISABELA ISLAND)

AM – ELIZABETH BAY (ISABELA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA MORENO (ISABELA ISLAND)

AM – SIERRA NEGRA VOLCANO (ISABELA ISLAND)
PM – TORTOISE BREEDING CENTER (ISABELA ISLAND)

AM – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
TRANSFER TO BALTRA AIRPORT

THE BEAGLE

Detailed North-West Itinerary

Your Expedition among the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s great treasures, starts today. At Baltra airport you will be met by The Beagle’s naturalist guide, who will assist you with collecting your luggage and accompany you on a short bus ride to the harbour where you will board The Beagle.

After a light lunch The Beagle will navigate to Las Bachas on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. Las Bachas is a white sand beach that is a major nesting site for green sea turtles. The name Las Bachas (“potholes”) refers to the indentations left in the sand by laying turtles or departing hatchlings. On the shore there are marine iguanas, and in the lagoon area flamingos are common. You are welcome to swim from the beach and have your first snorkel experience in the islands.

INCLUDED MEALS: Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour, in English

After a dry landing you climb up the fairly steep Prince Philip’s Steps that take you onto a lava rock trail leading you through Palo Santo forest full of nesting birds. There’s a good chance of seeing the unique short-eared owl at this site.

After lunch and a snorkel along the amazing cliff sides of the collapsed caldera that forms the bay, you visit the beach area of Darwin Bay, home to frigate birds, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, flycatchers, lava gulls, storm petrels, and Darwin’s finches, to mention some of the birds found in this bay.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

After a wet landing at James Bay onto a black beach, an easy stroll takes you near the coastline to observe tidal pools, marine birds, iguanas, and sea lions; migratory birds are often present in this area as well. This a good place to observe the Galapagos hawk. The trail ends at the fur sea lion grottos. Being nocturnal feeders, the fur seals sleep in and around the grottos during the day. On returning to the beach visitors may snorkel or swim.

After lunch The Beagle will start navigating to the west side of Isabela Island.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Punta Vicente Roca offers a dinghy ride, excellent for marine life observation, to a snorkel area where underwater wildlife take full advantage of the nutrient-rich Cromwell Current that upwells in this area.

Fernandina is the youngest island of the archipelago. As you disembark at Punta Espinoza, you must be careful not to step on the marine iguanas piled up together to retain body heat. This site is rich in wildlife such as sea lions, flightless cormorants, penguins, herons, Sally light-foot crabs, and much more, all living side by side on this small point with its mangrove forest.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

The 30 minute hike at Tagus Cove takes you to the top of a cliff to view the volcanic landscapes of Darwin Volcano and Darwin Lake, the latter an uplifted ultra-saline lake saltier than the sea. Historically used as an anchorage site by pirates and whalers, this site is again an excellent place for marine and land birds.

Located to the south at the foot of the western side of Alcedo Volcano, Urbina Bay was uplifted in 1954 from the seabed leaving coral heads sitting out of the water. There is a large colony of land iguanas here, even larger now that the feral dogs and goats have been controlled through Project Isabela. The site also affords an opportunity to see the Alcedo Volcano tortoise in its natural habitat.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Elizabeth Bay is a marine visitor site, so the excursion is made by dinghy to the Mariela Rocks, where there is an important colony of Galapagos penguins. The dinghy ride takes you into a cove surrounded by red mangrove. Here in these quiet lagoons there may be green sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, golden rays, brown pelicans, small sharks, and flightless cormorants.

A walk across the lava takes you to a series of lagoons with plenty to see along the way. Darwin’s finches, Galapagos doves, penguins, blue-footed boobies, mockingbirds, and flightless cormorants are some of the abundant wildlife.

Still on Isabela, the largest island in Galapagos, you will explore Punta Moreno, a desolate and pristine landscape of impressive black lava flows affording good views of Alcedo and Sierra Azul volcanoes.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

After breakfast, passengers head for the Sierra Negra volcano, the second largest volcanic crater in the world. It sits in the southern part of Isabela Island. Transportation is available to the end of the road, followed by a 45-minute walk on a trail to the top of the volcano from where the caldera can be viewed.

Upon returning from the hike, passengers visit the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center to see the giant tortoises.

Lunch is served upon return to The Beagle, and afterward, those who wish to can go swimming in one of the coves of Villamil Port.

In the afternoon the boat begins traveling toward Puerto Ayora.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

The guests will be transported by bus to visit the highlands of Santa Cruz on the way to the airport.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English, assisted transfer to the airport.

Price in USD from $4,200.00 per person based on double board

EXPEDITION INCLUSION/ EXCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
​
Accomodation on board
All meals while onboard
Island sightseeing
Naturalist guides and lecture services in English
Wet suit rental and snorkelling gear
Airfare to/from Galapagos
​
NOT INCLUDED

Galapagos National Park admission fee (US$ 100 subject to change without notice)
Transit Control Card for Galapagos (US$ 20 per person)
Alcoholic drinks
Tips
Gifts and additional items
International Airfare
Travel Insurance

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BALTRA AIRPORT –
CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)

AM – ASILO DE LA PAZ (FLOREANA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA CORMORANT (FLOREANA ISLAND)

AM – PUNTA SUAREZ (ESPAÑOLA ISLAND)
PM – GARDNER BAY ESPAÑOLA ISLAND)

AM – PUNTA PITT (SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND)
PM – ISLA LOBOS (SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND)

AM – SANTA FE ISLAND
PM – SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND

AM – NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND
PM – BARTOLOME ISLAND

AM – CHINESE HAT ISLAND
PM – CERRO DRAGON (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)

AM – BLACK TURTLE COVE (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)
TRANSFER TO BALTRA AIRPORT

THE BEAGLE

Central-South Detailed Itinerary

Your Expedition among the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s great treasures, starts today. At Baltra airport you will meet your guide, who will help you with the transfer from Baltra Island to Santa Cruz Island, where the boat will be ready for your arrival. As soon as you arrive on board you will be allocated your cabin and have a snack before going to the Charles Darwin Station in the afternoon. Afterward you may stroll through Puerto Ayora’s main street with ample time to shop and explore.

The Charles Darwin Research Station is on Santa Cruz Island, the main inhabited island in the archipelago, with a population of approximately 16,000. A visit to the station will increase your understanding of the work being done by the foundation and the importance of preserving the archipelago’s ecosystems. A series of walkways takes you through the captive breeding program where you will see juvenile and adult tortoises from different islands in captivity for conservation purposes.

INCLUDED MEALS: Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Assisted transfer from the airport, Guided tour in English.

Puerto Velasco Ibarra has the smallest human settlement in the Islands. Floreana was inhabited as early as the 1920’s and has a colorful history of pirates, whalers, convicts and colonists. You will be driven up into the highlands on a dirt road in an open-sided bus known locally as a chiva. You’ll pass through chacras (small land holdings) up to a small fresh-water spring called Asilo de la Paz and visit a tortoise corral. On returning to The Beagle you’ll motor to Punta Cormorant and from there take the dinghy to go for a snorkel at Devil’s Crown, a sunken cone with exciting snorkeling as you’re carried by the current while seeing a superb variety of marine life.

At Punta Cormorant you land on a beach with green olivine sand. Several trails allow you to explore a brackish water lagoon with a colony of flamingos who are there most of the year, and white-cheeked pintail ducks, stilts, and other shorebirds feeding alongside the flamingos. The trail then goes over a hill and dunes to a stunning white beach consisting of ground coral, where the green sea turtles nest.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English, assisted transfer from the airport.

Hood Island is one of the most popular and attractive of the archipelago’s islands. The quantity and variety of wildlife here are remarkable. At Punta Suarez you can see waved albatrosses from April to December. Blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, Galapagos hawks, Darwin finches, swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, shorebirds, sea lions, marine iguanas, and lava lizards are just some of its residents, and an impressive blowhole can be observed from the high cliffs.

Located on the eastern end of the island, Gardner Bay has a wonderful sandy beach for swimming and observing the Galapagos sea lions.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Punta Pitt on San Cristobal Island affords impressive views after you climb up a steep, narrow path onto a plateau surrounded by reddish hills. Depending on the time of year there may be nesting marine iguanas, red-footed boobies, and other marine birds down on the cliffs. After the visit The Beagle will navigate to Kicker Rock, where rocks rise 500 feet out of the ocean and resemble a sleeping lion, hence its name in Spanish, “León Dormido.”

The afternoon anchorage is at Isla Lobos, which, as its name suggests, has a sea lion colony and also an endemic lava lizard. It’s a good site for swimming and snorkeling with the playful sea lion pups, and on the islet you can visit the sea lion colony. Perhaps you’ll see the frigate birds displaying and building their nests if their food supply is good.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

One of the most beautiful of all the visitor sites in the Galapagos, Santa Fe has a turquoise cove sheltered by a rocky peninsula extending from the shore covered in Opuntia cactus and sea lions. This island was formed by an uplift caused by tectonic activity. You can see land iguanas, sea turtles, Galapagos hawks, sea lions, and a forest of giant Opuntia cactus, and it’s lovely to swim and snorkel in the clear turquoise blue sea.
South Plaza is one of the best spots in the archipelago to see land iguanas and swallow-tailed gulls, both indigenous to the Galapagos. There are iguana nests scattered all over the hill. The sheer cliffs of the southern shore are a perfect nesting habitat, making it an unparalleled bird observatory especially for swallow-tailed gulls, Audubon shearwaters, and red-billed tropical birds.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

North Seymour is home to several species of marine birds: swallow-tailed gulls, blue-footed boobies, noddy terns, and both the great and the magnificent frigate birds compete for nesting sites. Land iguanas are found alongside marine iguanas, and there are the ever-present vocal sea lions as well. North Seymour is a low, flat island located north of Baltra that was uplifted from the sea by underground seismic activity.

Bartolome Island is a small island located to the east of James Island. Famous for its Pinnacle Rock, it is home to a small rookery of Galapagos penguins. You can swim and snorkel around Pinnacle Rock, or walk to the other side of the island to see sea turtles nesting (from January to March) and sharks swimming close to shore. You can also climb to the highest point of the island, a climb which gives you the chance to see plants that live in lava and ash and many interesting lava formations. On this island we also see sea lions, Galapagos penguins, pelicans, Galapagos hawks, turtles, and sharks.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Chinese Hat is a little island shaped as its name implies that sits off the southeastern tip of James Island. Its small white beaches have a sea lion colony. Snorkeling is usually very good, and with luck you will see the Galapagos penguins in the water.

CERRO DRAGÓN

Located on the northwest coast of Santa Cruz Island, the visit to Cerro Dragon (“dragon hill”) will take you through Palo Santo trees and Opuntia cactus past a couple of lagoons where flamingoes can be seen and shy land iguanas live.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: The Beagle
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Your visit to Black Turtle Cove is with the dinghy to permit you to motor through the mangrove inlets. These lagoons provide a refuge to rays, sharks, and sea turtles that are clearly visible in the clear, shallow water. The engine is turned off and you slowly drift among the different species that live in this peaceful place.
Your guide will take you to the airport in a bus, a ten-minute ride.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION:
SERVICES: Guided tour in English
END OF SERVICES

Price in USD from $4,200.00 per person based on double board

EXPEDITION INCLUSION/ EXCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
​
All meals while onboard
Island sightseeing
Naturalist guides and lecture services in English
Wet suit rental and snorkelling gear
Airfare to/from Galapagos
​
NOT INCLUDED

Galapagos National Park admission fee (US$ 100 subject to change without notice)
Transit Control Card for Galapagos (US$ 20 per person)
Alcoholic drinks
Tips
Gifts and additional items
International Airfare
Travel Insurance

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BALTRA AIRPORT – HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
PM – CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION

AM – GARDNER BAY (ESPAÑOLA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA SUAREZ (ESPAÑOLA ISLAND)

AM – ISLA LOBOS (SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA PITT (SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND)

AM – SANTA FE ISLAND
PM – SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND

AM – DARWIN BAY (GENOVESA ISLAND)
PM – PRINCE PHILIP’S STEPS (GENOVESA ISLAND)

AM – SULLIVAN BAY (SANTIAGO ISLAND)
PM – BARTOLOME ISLAND

AM – RABIDA ISLAND
PM – SOMBRERO CHINO ISLAND

AM – TRANSFER TO BALTRA AIRPORT

REINA SILVIA

Detailed Eastern Itinerary

AM: Arrival in Baltra, Highlands of Santa Cruz

After arrival in Baltra, visit of the highlands of Santa Cruz Island for a special opportunity to view the islands’ most famous reptile: the giant tortoises in their wild habitat. What a privilege to see an endangered species roving in this lush environment! The vegetation of the area includes the Scalesia Forest (an endemic giant daisy tree) and birds such as the vermilion flycatcher will delight everyone with its scarlet feathers against an emerald green forest. Look for Darwin’s finches (most of them from the tree-finch group), particularly the famous Woodpecker Finch.

PM: Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island)

We will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galápagos National Park headquarters to learn first hand of the conservation and research efforts in the islands. There, you’ll see several subspecies of adult tortoises, lots of hatchlings, and learn of the repatriation programs that are saving several subspecies of tortoises and iguanas from extinction.

INCLUDED MEALS: Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English, assisted transfer from the airport.

AM: Gardner Bay

We usually spend part of a day on the great white sand beach at Gardner Bay. This is the place where you can have time alone to reflect, take a long walk, jog in the surf, swim, snorkel, or stretch out on the sand for a snooze. Sea Turtles nest on this beach and sea lions conduct helpful snooze workshops as part of their compelling “Live Like a Sea Lion” programs.

Islote Gardner is a small island in front of Gardner Bay and is lined with vertical cliffs that drop to sandy ledges and large boulders.

Islote Osborn is a small Island, about 3 Km from Española Island perfect for swimming and snorkeling, depending of National Park regulation.

PM: Punta Suarez

At the Punta Suárez visitor site, on the north-western corner of the island, birds are everywhere—underfoot, on the trail, overhead, diving into the sea, taking off from cliffs, engaging in ritual mating dances, sitting quietly, and hatching eggs. As the panga driver guides us in through the surf to the landing, sea lions are often seen “hanging 10” on the waves. A great tangle of marine iguanas, stretched out in the sun on the beach, is usually present when we land.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English.

AM: Isla Lobos, Leon Dormido

Isla Lobos is about an hour by boat from Port Baquerizo Moreno. There is a small population of blue-footed boobies and common frigate birds nesting on this site. You can observe the two species of sea lions present in the archipelago. During the tour you go through a dry vegetation zone, substrate of volcanic rocks and a sandy area. Located some miles offshore, Leon Dormido is a huge monolith that split apart creating a narrow passage that only the most skilful yacht captains can negotiate. Blue Footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigatebirds nest along the ledges.

PM: Punta Pitt

This most easterly point in the archipelago is one of only a few visiting sites in Galapagos where red-footed boobies can be observed. All three boobies (blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca) are known to nest here, and at Islote Pitt which is a small islet near the anchorage. Blue-footed boobies can often be seen plunge-diving for fish while frigate birds soar overhead. The trail at Punta Pitt winds up through eroded volcanic tuff formations to a plateau for a spectacular view of the island, and Islote Pitt. Along the trail are endemic plants and wildlife unique to San Cristobal, such as the San Cristobal mockingbird and the San Cristobal lava lizard. The beach is frequented by sea lions. Snorkeling with sea lions is a prime attraction at Islote Pitt.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

AM: Santa Fe Island

We spend a fascinating half-day on Santa Fé, the island home to a small population of very large land iguanas, and the largest of the Opuntia cacti. The lagoon appears like a scene from “South Pacific” and is ideal for swimming and snorkelling; sea lions and colourful fish abound here and sometimes we see sea turtles. You may snorkel from the beach to the yacht with your guide, provided the bull sea lions are not overly aggressive. Please stay with your guide when snorkelling here. The climb to the bluff is challenging but the payoff comes when you spot a couple of huge land iguanas. This is a lovely, restful site.

PM: South Plaza Island

This is a small, but very rewarding island to visit. Here you see lots of land iguanas munching on Opuntia blossoms and leaves, defending territories, and just looking sinister. On the upper edge, at the windward side, you will see the Swallowtail Gulls nesting place. It is a treat to watch these beautiful birds manoeuvre in the tricky air currents as they set up to land on the cliff face. The shrieks of the Red-billed Tropicbirds, flying overhead in tight formation, will linger in your memories of Galápagos. Giant chitons cling to rocks at sea level and Audubon Shearwaters nest along the cliff face. From the bluff you can see schools of Yellowtail Mullet, occasionally a shark, and lots of birds flying back and forth

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

AM: Darwin bay (Genovesa Island)

On arrival in Darwin’s Bay, a protected bay in a volcanic crater that long ago broke open to the sea, we host a “welcoming committee” of juvenile Red-footed Boobies. They come on board to inspect us and perch on the railings (the crews love this!). On the beach we can observe these entertaining tree-nesting Red-footed Boobies, displaying male Great Frigatebirds, mockingbirds, Swallow-tailed Gulls and finches. At certain times of the year, the male frigatebirds sit in the green saltbushes with their great red, chest pouches all puffed up, looking skyward. Any time a female flies over, they put on a compelling show of yodeling, wing flapping, and beak waving, always with great hopes that they will be chosen by the passing lady! This season generally runs from February to May. There is always great commotion on this island as the nesting Red-footed Boobies are being constantly hassled by the kleptoparasitic frigatebirds for both their food and nesting materials.

PM: Prince Philip’s steps (Genovesa Island)

We explore the cliffs on a long tender ride en route to Prince Phillip’s Steps, also known as the El Barranco. We may see the white tails of the Red-billed Tropicbirds sticking out of cliff face nests. After a climb up to the plateau (it is a flat island) we see nesting Nazca and Redfooted Boobies and Frigatebirds. A few white variations of the normally brown Red-Footed Boobies may be roosting in the Palo Santo trees. This is one of the best places to see the Large-Beaked Ground Finch. Millions of Galápagos Storm Petrels nest here in the lava tubes. Short-eared Owls live off these petrels so you may see one or two of them. Swallow-tailed Gulls, pelicans and fur seals live along the cliffs. You may see hammerhead sharks lazing along, just below the surface, and you’ll hear Red-billed Tropicbirds shrieking as they race along the cliffs. This island is one of the most interesting to visitors.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

AM: Sullivan bay
At Sullivan Bay, just across a narrow channel from Bartolomé, on the eastern end of Santiago, you will walk on recent, black pahoehoe lava flows. You will see some of the early colonizing plants—mollugo and brachycereus—struggling to gain a foothold in tiny cracks in the lava. Small cinder cones stand out where this black blanket flowed gracefully around them. You get a sense of the primordial, the beginnings of the planet, as you wander around on this primitive flow. Occasionally, a colorful Galápagos Grasshopper (actually a locust) flits ahead of you, over the flow. You may wonder how it makes a living out in this austere environment.

PM: Bartolomé

This is an exceptional place to observe volcanic island geology and to snorkel. Among the many colourful species you will see Bi-color Parrotfish, Streamer Hogfish, and Flag Cabrilla. Sometimes you get a special treat—a penguin “snorkelling” right around you in hunt of fishy treats. Most likely it will be a member of the small colony of Galápagos Penguins that nest in crevices at the base of the much photographed lava spire. The long climb up the wooden steps to the pinnacle of this cinder cone takes you through cinders and rough volcanic formations, a veritable moonscape. The lower slopes are graced with a light sprinkling of the delicate, silvery Taquilia, a ground hugging plant adapted to this harsh spot. On top you will enjoy the spectacular view of Bartolomé, Santiago, and several other nearby islands. From this height you can make out old submerged craters at the water’s edge 

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

AM: Rábida Island

This is a “small red island,” the color of the volcanic cinders. It is located just across a small channel from the south side of Santiago, near the center of the archipelago. The red beach is usually well populated with sea lions and pups. At times the low saltbushes are loaded with nesting Brown Pelicans. It is amazing that pelican chicks are just as bizarre looking as their parents. Just behind the beach, in a brackish lagoon, we usually see Bahamas White-cheeked Pintail Ducks, migratory shore and wading birds, and Greater Flamingos. Flamingos need the presence of a dozen or two other flamingos to stimulate their synchronous mating dance. If our timing is right, (i.e. lucky) we will be able to observe this highly entertaining ritual. Two species of boobies nest along the cliffs. The snorkeling is very good along the cliff face where Galápagos Penguins may swim with you; you can count on swimming with sea lion youngsters.

PM: Sombrero Chino

Sombrero Chino is a tiny island just off the southeast tip of Santiago. Its name (Chinese Hat) describes the island’s shape. Those visitors who travel to the island will find its special landscape worth the visit. Though centrally located it is one of the least visited sites in the area. The lava rock is very fragile and tends to break off when people walk over it. The sharp outcroppings caused from these breaks make it necessary to bring good shoes. Patches of pahoehoe lava, cracked lava and lava tubes can be found on the island. While the path does not lead up the striking red rust sides of the Sombrero to the caldera, it does venture high enough on the island to offer some spectacular views of the waves crashing below. White-tipped sharks frequent the area, as do the playful Galapagos Penguins and sea lions.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Reina Silvia
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

After breakfast we will make our way to the Baltra airport for the flight to mainland Ecuador.  

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION:
SERVICES: assisted transfer to the airport with your guide.

Please contact us to reserve The Reina Silvia yacht, as is only available to charter the yacht.

EXPEDITION INCLUSION/ EXCLUSIONS

INCLUDED

Seven nights cruise in the Galápagos Islands aboard the Motor Yacht Reina Silvia.
Naturalist escorted group transfer with luggage and tour from the Baltra Airport by boat/barge and by bus or van to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island through the Santa Cruz Highlands to view flora, fauna and geological phenomena including a search for giant tortoises, a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, visit to the village of Puerto Ayora, embarkation of the Yacht in the harbor of Puerto Ayora, and transfer from the Yacht to the Baltra airport at the end of the cruise including check-in for the return flight to the mainland. The length of the tour and time of day of the transfer to the Yacht will be governed by the actual arrival time of the group’s aircraft.
Naturalist Guide

All meals while on board the Yacht plus lunch on the day of arrival in the Galápagos.
Transfer from main pier in Puerto Ayora to the Yacht.
Transfer from the Yacht at the end of the cruise to the Baltra airport.
Soft drinks, water and draft beer at all times while on board the Yacht.
Flight reservations to and from the Galapagos Islands from mainland Ecuador, if requested by the charterer.​

NOT INCLUDED

Any land services other than those noted above under “Price Includes.”
Any international airfare.
Galapagos airfare
Any insurance of any kind.
Galápagos National Park entry fee which is presently $100 per person for adults and $50 for children under the age of 12, which must be paid in cash USD on arrival in Galápagos.
Transit/Migration Control Tax, currently $20 USD (cash) per person, payable upon departure from mainland Ecuador for flight to the Galápagos.
Tips for yacht crew and naturalist.
Items of a personal nature including, but not limited to, laundry, alcoholic beverages (excluding draft beer), excess baggage charges, satellite telephone charges while on board the Yacht.

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REINA SILVIA

Western Itinerary Overview

8 Days / 7 Nights Western Islands

SANTA CRUZ II

Western Itinerary Overview

7 Days / 6 Nights Western Islands

ARRIVE AT ANY TIME AT QUITO – ECUADOR

BALTRA – CERRO DRAGON (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)

AM – PUNTA VICENTE ROCA (ISABELA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA ESPINOZA (FERNANDINA ISLAND)

AM – CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH STATION (SANTA CRUZ ISLAND)
PM – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

AM – POST OFFICE BAY (FLOREANA ISLAND)
PM – PUNTA CORMORANT (FLOREANA ISLAND)

TRANSFER TO THE BALTRA AIRPORT – FLY TO QUITO

DEPART AT ANY TIME
CONTACT US FOR AN EXTENSION OF YOUR TOUR

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive any time at Quito.

INCLUDED MEALS: None
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Hilton Colon or similar
SERVICES: Transfer from the airport

Baltra Island

We arrive by plane at Baltra Island and transfer to the dock to board the Santa Cruz II where we receive our welcome introductory briefing and lunch.
Mosquera

After lunch and your introductory briefing on board, Santa Cruz II will relocate only four nautical miles from Baltra, next to Mosquera Islet, a small volcanic uplift between Baltra and North Seymour. The island is a long and narrow sand bank surrounded by lava reefs. Our groups will approach the island from its western shore, a long shallow reef, and the perfect rookery for young sea lions. After a wet landing, our guides will lead you past the sea lion colonies, where you will learn more about the fragile marine and terrestrial ecosystems of Galapagos. The walk is easy as it is restricted to a few hundred metres of flat sandy dunes. This will also be a great opportunity for an introduction to snorkelling.

INCLUDED MEALS: Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Transfer from the airport, Guided tour in English

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal Island)

After breakfast, we disembark (dry landing) at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the island’s capital, and drive 40 minutes to the island’s southern shore. At Cerro Colorado, we visit the breeding centre for highly endangered giant tortoises in the midst of a fantastic deciduous forest, home to dozens of bird species, including the San Cristobal mockingbird, and the San Cristobal lava lizard, both island endemics.

Punta Pitt (San Cristobal Island)

In the afternoon, we disembark (wet landing) on the eastern tip of the island at Punta Pitt, an eroded tuff cone, whose trail provides spectacular views of the shoreline. This is the only site in the Galapagos where the three species of boobies can be found together. We can walk or enjoy a panga ride along the coast. Opportunity for snorkelling, swimming and kayaking.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Santa Fe Island

After breakfast, we take the dinghy over to this idyllic sandy-white beach populated by many sea lions (wet landing). The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the morning walk amid the giant prickly pear cactus. Snorkelling and swimming from the panga rounds off our rewarding experience, or if guests prefer, the glass bottom boat is available for non-snorkelers. Opportunity for kayaking.
South Plaza Island

Following lunch and a rest, we disembark (dry landing) in this channel, whose turquoise waters contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline. Beyond, a carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-grey land iguanas sit beneath these, waiting patiently for pears to drop. Along the coastline one finds sea lion colonies, while frigates, swallow-tailed gulls and shearwaters glide, playing with the thermals.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island)

In the morning, we disembark (dry landing) for our visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station’s giant tortoise Breeding Centre within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest home to many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Following our visit, we board our transport to enjoy lunch in the cooler highlands of Santa Cruz Island, a completely different ecosystem.

Santa Cruz Island

We have several options available for the afternoon, which can be discussed in advance with your Expedition Leader. 

At the end of the afternoon’s activities, we return to Puerto Ayora and embark on the Santa Cruz II.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Punta Suarez (Española Island)

(Dry landing) – An exciting walk awaits at this site, where we enjoy its unique sea bird colonies, including Galapagos albatross (April-December), Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls as well as a view of the Galapagos’ famous “blow-hole”. Also, look out for red-green-black marine iguanas. Back on board for lunch.

Gardner Bay – Osborn Islet (Española Island)

(Wet landing) In the afternoon, the picture-postcard white coral beach of Gardner Bay and the nearby islet of Osborn provides a beautiful setting for observing sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches as we relax. We can expect great snorkelling in this area. Opportunity for swimming and kayaking as well.
INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Eden Islet (Santa Cruz Island)

After breakfast, a panga ride takes us to Eden Islet, a small islet located off the coast of Santa Cruz, where we can observe blue-footed boobies diving into the water, reef sharks and frigates. There’s a chance to snorkel and, if weather condition permits, ride in the glass-bottom boat and kayak.

North Seymour Island

North Seymour was lifted from the ocean floor by a volcanic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing (dry landing), usually without leaves, waiting for the rains to burst into bloom. This is a great introductory site to the islands and their wildlife, full of bird colonies of blue-footed boobies, two species of frigate birds, swallow-tailed gulls, as well as sea lions and marine iguanas.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Santa Cruz II
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Baltra Island

On our last day at the Galapagos Islands, we disembark at Baltra Island and transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the continent.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Hilton Colon or similar
SERVICES: Transfer to the airport and to the Hotel in Quito.

Depart at any time.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION:
SERVICES: Transfer to the airport.

Note: Please contact us for an extension of your tour.

Price in USD from $4,350.00 per person

EXPEDITION INCLUSION/ EXCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
​
All meals on board
Accommodation on board Horizon deck cabin
2 Nights Accomodation in first class hotel in Ecuador
Island sightseeing
Naturalist guides. Conferences and lectures.
Snorkelling equipment
Kayaks and Glass bottom boat
​
​
NOT INCLUDED

Galapagos National Park admission fee (US$ 100 subject to change without notice)
Transit Control Card for Galapagos (US$ 20 per person)
Alcoholic and non alcoholic beverage and gratuities
Laundry or valet services
Wetsuit rental
Gifts and additional items
Airfare to/from Galapagos
International Airfare
Travel insurance

Itineraries for reference only. Our routes and programmes may vary according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety and operational reasons, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

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Arrive any time at Quito.

INCLUDED MEALS: None
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Hilton Colon or similar
SERVICES: Transfer from the airport

Baltra Airport

Following our morning arrival at Baltra Airport, we transfer to the Itabaca Channel, taking a small ferry across the channel to the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. We board our bus to the highlands, where we’ll learn about Santa Cruz’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Lunch is served at a local restaurant.

Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)

After lunch, we continue by bus to reach a reserve that is one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, too. A short bus ride takes us down to Puerto Ayora to board Yacht La Pinta.

INCLUDED MEALS: Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Yacht La Pinta
SERVICES: Transfer from the airport in, Guided tour in English

Eden Islet (Santa Cruz Island)

After breakfast, a panga ride takes us to Eden Islet, located off the coast of Santa Cruz, where we can observe blue footed boobies diving into the water, reef sharks and frigates. There’s a chance to snorkel and, if weather conditions permit, to ride in the glass-bottom boat. The volcanic setting of this area is quite stunning due to its variety of volcanic debris, including cinder cones, tuff cones, and semi-eroded lava flows.

Sombrero Chino Island

The tiny island of Sombrero Chino gets its name from its appearance, reminiscent of a Chinese hat. This islet, formed only fairly recently, makes a beautiful visit as one explores the wildlife along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities amid white-tipped reef sharks and Galapagos penguins.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Yacht La Pinta
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Bartolome Island

This morning, a Galapagos icon awaits: Bartolome Island. A great way to start the day, with a steep climb up a wooden staircase: the view from the top is worth the effort! Following the walk, we take to the dinghies for a ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkelling. We can also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world.

Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)

After lunch, we board the pangas to land at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming and snorkelling, and with a trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galapagos while observing its wildlife.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMODATION: Yacht La Pinta
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)

In the morning, we begin our exploration of this island with an easy stroll to observe marine and land birds. There is an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else we can return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks.

Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa Island)

The afternoon starts with a very interesting panga ride along the cliffs before we disembark for a short but steep climb up a wooden staircase. Once at the top, the land is flat, allowing for a captivating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of Nazca boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels and the elusive short-eared owl.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Yacht La Pinta
SERVICES: Guided tour in English

Baltra Island

The Expedition of the Galapagos Islands ends at Baltra Island, where we transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland. Baltra’s flat substrate (due to its uplifted origin) is the reason why the island was chosen back in the 1940s as the location to building an airport.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch
ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Hilton Colon or similar
SERVICES: Transfer to the airport, Guided tour in English

Depart at any time.

INCLUDED MEALS: Breakfast
ACCOMMODATION:
SERVICES: Transfer to the airport.

Note: Please contact us for an extension of your tour.

Price in USD from $4,200.00 per person

EXPEDITION INCLUSION/ EXCLUSIONS

INCLUDED
​
Accommodation
All meals
Soft drinks *
​Island sightseeing
2 Nights accommodation in first class Hotel in Ecuador
Naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish only
​Wet suit rental and snorkelling gear
Internet **

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare to/from Galapagos
Galapagos National Park admission fee (US$ 100 subject to change without notice)
Transit Control Card for Galapagos (US$ 20 per person)
Alcoholic drinks
Tips
Gifts and additional items
International Airfare
Travel insurance

Please note:
 
* Soft drinks include juices and carbonated drinks, not “virgin” cocktails.
** Internet connections aboard consist of 2 computer stations in the library and Wi-Fi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos’ remote location; internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth.

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