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Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery

Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery

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Description

Beautiful Quito and volcano adventure Begin your adventure with two nights at a hotel in Quito, one of South America’s most charming capitals. This World Heritage city of graceful Spanish-era architecture is packed with cosy restaurants and small artisanal shops. From here we’ll journey to an active volcano and go on a nature walk in stunning surroundings, stopping to pay a visit to a vibrant traditional open-air market. Darwin’s islands of evolution The Galápagos Islands are famed for their association with the evolutionary theorist Charles Darwin. Our western itinerary calls at Isabela and Floreana, two of the four islands visited by the famous naturalist, at the volcanic island of Fernandina, and the centrally located Santa Cruz Island. The landings take in a wide array of ecosystems, picturesque landscapes, and offer great opportunities for seeing wildlife such as sea lions, turtles, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, flamingos, Nazca and Red-footed Boobies, and iconic Darwin’s Finches. Your expedition ship – MS Santa Cruz II MS Santa Cruz II’s crafted itineraries give you some of the best island coverage and wildlife viewing opportunities in the Galápagos. Many excursions take place at exclusive visitor sites, meaning we’ll often have entire areas to ourselves. Having multiple naturalist guides aboard Santa Cruz II also means you’ll be able to choose from a wider range of activities each day. Your ship is also one of the few vessels operating in Galápagos that comes equipped with a full range of exploration tools, including dinghies, kayaks, snorkelling gear and paddleboards. There’s even a glass-bottom boat. Of course, safety and sustainability are paramount throughout your cruise, and there’s a 24-hour Medical Officer onboard at all times.

Trip Name
Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise - Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery
Days
7
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Vessel Length: 71.8 meters Passenger Capacity: 90 Built / Refurbished: 2002 / 2015 / 2018 / 2021 When you are exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home on board. Gastronomic delights Mouthwatering meals and creative cocktails await you aboard MS Santa Cruz II. With creativity and dedication, our cheerful staff draw inspiration from everything from the weather to the region’s flavours and local ingredients. Beagle Restaurant - Incredible Dining Experience The MS Santa Cruz II has a team of trained staff members that utilize locally-sourced organic food to prepare every dish. This ship provides a Le Cordon Bleu (a trained Gastronomy Director) and a wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences. Each and every meal served onboard is exquisite. Panorama bar & lounge This large and well-lit area is not only the main bar, but also the place where most ship events will take place (welcome and farewell cocktail), and doubles as an ideal place for lectures. It’s the ideal site to chill and relax with Wi-Fi hot spot and direct access to our al fresco terrace. Luxury living Your ship gives you everything you could wish for in a home away from home: places for stimulation, relaxation, and meetings with your fellow guests. With a Scandinavian-inspired décor and all modern conveniences, MS Santa Cruz II does it in comfort and style. Expedition lounge & bar with Science Corner and library Facing the front of the ship, the Expedition Lounge – complete with a refreshment station and library – is a fantastic place to admire the beauty of the Galápagos’ Islands from inside. The Science Corner includes a glass cabinet, a microscope and a whale vertebrae clone, a perfect learning zone about our science activities. Sky deck The Sky deck offers spaces where guests can relax and enjoy their Galápagos expeditions basking in the sun at the very top of the ship. The sun deck and fitness room are located here. Wellness and workouts Whenever you feel the need to get your body moving, exercise facilities are on hand to get your pulse up. And whether you’re relaxing after a day of fascinating lectures, or a long hike, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to relax your body and mind. Fitness Room Our fitness center is equipped with yoga mats, set of weights, 2 treadmills, 2 stationary bikes, and an elliptical trainer for those guests who do not want to let their routine slide. Hot Tub For a nice relaxing time our two hot tubs with capacity for 5 guests each. Located on the Expedition deck are ideal.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 Arrive in the city of eternal spring, get your bearings and relax after your journey.
Your journey of discovery begins on the equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 ft, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colourful plazas, magnificent churches and handsome monuments. If you have enough time in the evening, make sure to visit the Calle La Ronda, an ancient pedestrianised street with links to the poets and artists who’ve lived here. It’s lined with shops and cafes, and there are many handicrafts available to buy. Pre-Programmes Why not experience another highlight of South America and discover the lost civilisation of the Incas, including the breathtaking mountain stronghold of Machu Picchu. This optional 4-day Pre-Programme starts in Lima and ends in Quito. Or arrive in Quito a few days early and join us instead on a 4-day tour to Cloudforest Lodge in the Mashpi Reserve. The area is part of the Ecuadorian Choco rainforest, one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots. This optional extension is also available as a Post-Programme.
Day 2 - DAY 2 Get a taste for Ecuador with a visit to a traditional market and a trip to Cotopaxi Volcano.
Today you’ll visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of South America's most active volcanoes. But first, you’ll stop at the photogenic Sangolquí open-air market, where you can browse colourful stalls with unique handicrafts, and sample different local specialities. Afterwards, we’ll walk to Limpiopungo Lagoon, tucked in a high valley within the Cotopaxi National Park at 12,800 ft above sea level. Spot herds of llamas on the slopes and keep your eyes open for birds such as the Andean Gull, several species of hummingbird and – with luck – the majestic Andean Condor. You’ll enjoy a tasty lunch prepared by some of the region’s best chefs before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 3 - DAY 3 Fly away from the mainland to the Galápagos Islands and have your first wildlife encounter.
After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island in the spectacular Galápagos archipelago. A transfer brings you straight to the port where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits. In the afternoon we’ll begin our exploration of the Galápagos Islands following the north shore of Santa Cruz towards the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón - or Dragon Hill - where we’ll land. The first part of the walk here passes by a brackish water lagoon that’s frequented by shorebirds and American Flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as a chance to get a first look at some land iguanas.
Day 4 - DAY 4 Explore the coast by dinghy and set foot on the island of the marine iguanas.
You’ll start your day at Punta Vicente Roca, on the north-western tip of Isabela Island. After breakfast, we’ll explore the coast by dinghy, learning about the dramatic geology of the area from our naturalist guides. This site is a nesting place for several bird species, so look out for flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and boobies. Weather permitting, you’ll get to snorkel alongside the cliffs, where you might find green sea turtles, oceanic sun fish, and even fur seals. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Fernandina, an island with a unique environment and a high density of marine iguanas. Scan the coast for sea lions, Sally lightfoot crabs, hawks and penguins.
Day 5 - DAY 5 Meet the famous giant tortoises of Galápagos at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
Today, you’ll explore Santa Cruz Island. In the morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. The Station consists of a giant tortoise breeding centre and an impressive forest of prickly-pear cacti that’s home to many land birds. It also serves as the headquarters for scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. After the visit, we’ll head up to the cooler highlands of Santa Cruz Island for lunch. You’ll have several options to choose from in the afternoon, which you can decide on beforehand with your Expedition Leader. At the end of the afternoon’s activities, you’ll return to Puerto Ayora and re-join MS Santa Cruz II.
Day 6 - DAY 6 Discover a bit of Galápagos history and look out for some underwater wildlife.
After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a dinghy ride among the channels on Floreana’s north shore, before taking in the incredible views of the island from Baroness Cove. Later on, we’ll land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries. After lunch, you’ll explore the underwater wonders around Champion Islet in a dinghy or aboard a glass-bottom boat. Here, you can snorkel in one of the best spots in the archipelago. From there, it’s onwards to Cormorant Point, where we’ll take a walk from an olivine-crystal beach to a brackish lagoon, where you can see American Flamingos, Pintail Ducks, and other birds.
Day 7 - DAY 7 It’s the end of the cruise and time to fly to Guayaquil on the mainland.
As your expedition cruise comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the amazing wildlife and scenery of one of the world’s most incredible nature destinations. We’ll also say farewell to our wonderful crew and Expedition Team as we disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport, where your waiting flight will bring you to Guayaquil. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, a representative will assist with the international flight connection. Alternatively continue from Guayaquil to Quito to catch your international flight from there. Post-Programmes Explore more of Ecuador with one of our optional Post-Programmes. Join us as we travel to Napo River, in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Fly to Coca and spend three nights in a lodge surrounded by the beautiful rainforest, and observe and learn about the flora and fauna on selected activities. Or travel from Quito to the Mashpi Reserve, a unique habitat and ecosystem. Enjoy a 3-night stay in luxurious Cloudforest Lodge and discover this breathtaking area (also available as a Pre-Programme). Both Post-Programmes include two nights in Quito.
Day 8 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
24-12-202430-12-2024AUD $9,568Explorer Cabin
24-12-202430-12-2024AUD $0Darwin Suite
07-01-202513-01-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
07-01-202513-01-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
21-01-202527-01-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
21-01-202527-01-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
04-02-202510-02-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
04-02-202510-02-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
18-02-202524-02-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
18-02-202524-02-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
04-03-202510-03-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
04-03-202510-03-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
18-03-202524-03-2025AUD $8,815Explorer Cabin
18-03-202524-03-2025AUD $11,622Darwin Suite
01-04-202507-04-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
01-04-202507-04-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
27-05-202502-06-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
27-05-202502-06-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
10-06-202516-06-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
10-06-202516-06-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
24-06-202530-06-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
24-06-202530-06-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
08-07-202514-07-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
08-07-202514-07-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
22-07-202528-07-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
22-07-202528-07-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
05-08-202511-08-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
05-08-202511-08-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
19-08-202525-08-2025AUD $9,885Explorer Cabin
19-08-202525-08-2025AUD $13,251Darwin Suite
02-09-202508-09-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
02-09-202508-09-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
16-09-202522-09-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
16-09-202522-09-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
30-09-202506-10-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
30-09-202506-10-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
14-10-202520-10-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
14-10-202520-10-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
28-10-202503-11-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
28-10-202503-11-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
11-11-202517-11-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
11-11-202517-11-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
25-11-202501-12-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
25-11-202501-12-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
09-12-202515-12-2025AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
09-12-202515-12-2025AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
23-12-202529-12-2025AUD $10,557Explorer Cabin
23-12-202529-12-2025AUD $14,217Darwin Suite
06-01-202612-01-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
06-01-202612-01-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
20-01-202626-01-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
20-01-202626-01-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
03-02-202609-02-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
03-02-202609-02-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
17-02-202623-02-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
17-02-202623-02-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
03-03-202609-03-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
03-03-202609-03-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
17-03-202623-03-2026AUD $9,703Explorer Cabin
17-03-202623-03-2026AUD $12,987Darwin Suite
31-03-202606-04-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
31-03-202606-04-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
14-04-202620-04-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
14-04-202620-04-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
28-04-202604-05-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
28-04-202604-05-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
12-05-202618-05-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
12-05-202618-05-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
26-05-202601-06-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
26-05-202601-06-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
09-06-202615-06-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
09-06-202615-06-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
23-06-202629-06-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
23-06-202629-06-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
07-07-202613-07-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
07-07-202613-07-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
21-07-202627-07-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
21-07-202627-07-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
04-08-202610-08-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
04-08-202610-08-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
18-08-202624-08-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
18-08-202624-08-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
01-09-202607-09-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
01-09-202607-09-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
15-09-202621-09-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
15-09-202621-09-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
29-09-202605-10-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
29-09-202605-10-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
13-10-202619-10-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
13-10-202619-10-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
27-10-202602-11-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
27-10-202602-11-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
10-11-202616-11-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
10-11-202616-11-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
24-11-202630-11-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
24-11-202630-11-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
08-12-202614-12-2026AUD $11,441Explorer Cabin
08-12-202614-12-2026AUD $15,205Darwin Suite
22-12-202628-12-2026AUD $12,357Explorer Cabin
22-12-202628-12-2026AUD $16,525Darwin Suite

Inclusions

    • Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we set out from Quito, Ecuador, to experience the natural wonders of the incomparable Galápagos Islands.

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