
Galápagos Islands Expedition – in Darwin’s Footsteps
Galápagos Islands Expedition – in Darwin’s Footsteps
Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we go from Quito, Ecuador, in Charles Darwin’s footsteps to experience the natural wonders of the incomparable Galápagos Islands.
Eastern Itinerary
We offer you unique expedition cruises to sail in the footsteps of Darwin. Our Eastern itinerary explores San Cristobal, the first of the four Galapagos island visited by Darwin in 1835, and the easternmost landmass of the archipelago. We will also call at Mosquera Islet, see the land iguanas of Santa Fe and South Plaza, the giant turtles of Santa Cruz, and the amazing bird colonies of Española, Eden Islet, and North Seymour. The landings cover a wide array of ecosystems, spectacular landscapes, and great opportunities for wildlife watching, including most of the iconic animals of Galapagos.
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 pay a visit to an active volcano and go on a nature walk in stunning surroundings, as well as experiencing a vibrant open-air market.
After we fly to the Galápagos, step aboard Santa Cruz II – our comfortable and stylish expedition vessel ideally suited to remote adventures. You’ll take part in an unforgettable cruise and experience the very best the UNESCO protected Galápagos has to offer. The onboard facilities are excellent, and you can look forward to mouth-watering dishes prepared by our chefs, as well as comfortable cabins to relax in after each exciting day of discovery.
When the English naturalist Charles Darwin visited here aboard H.M.S. Beagle in 1835, he discovered that several species, including tortoises and land iguanas, had evolved differently depending on their habitat. His seminal work On the Origin of Species, proved revolutionary. On this science-oriented expedition, we’ll be learning about Darwin’s discoveries, as well as making a few of our own.
You’ll get closer to the natural wonders with the use of our small expedition boats, kayaks, snorkelling gear and paddleboards. There’s a wide range of activities to choose from, and the Expedition Team will guide you on landings. Safety and sustainability are always at the core of our operations, and our aim is to leave the smallest footprint behind wherever we go.
For your safety, we always sail with a Medical Officer onboard.
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Day 1
Quito, Ecuador
Arrival
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Day 2
Quito, Ecuador
Cotopaxi Volcano trip
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Day 3
Galápagos, Ecuador
Your cruise begins
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Day 4
San Cristobal Island
Visiting the giants
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Day 5
Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island
Blissful beauty and evolving iguanas
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Day 6
Santa Cruz Island
Giant tortoises & island activities
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Day 7
Española Island
A conservation success story
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Day 8
Santa Cruz Island & North Seymour
A small slice of Eden
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Day 9
Baltra Island, Ecuador
End of the expedition
Departures
2023
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January
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February
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March
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April
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May
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June
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July
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August
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September
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October
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November
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December
2024
What's included
Included in your voyage
Hotel
- Twohotelnights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on day 2.
Flights
- Return flights in economy class between Quito andBaltra, and Baltra and Guayaquil
Transfers
- Transfer fromthehotel in Quito to Quito airport before the expedition cruise, transfers between Baltra airport and ship
Excursion
- Full day Nature Tour to Cotopaxi National Park, including lunch
Extras
- GalápagosIslands National Park admission fee
- Transit Control Card forGalápagos Islands
- Access to airport lounge at Guayaquil or Quito airport upon return fromGalápagos Islands
Expedition Cruise
- Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water)
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Be aware that we sail in remote areas with limited connection. Streaming is not supported
- Complimentary reusable water bottle to use at water refill stations on board
- English-speaking Expedition Team who guide activities and provide educational information on board and ashore
- Welcome and farewell cocktails
Onboard Activities
- Use of the ship’s Science Center which has a library, microscopes and samples
- Citizen Science programme allows guests to assist with live scientific research
- Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Use of the ship’s hot tubs and gym
Landing Activities
- Landings, hikes, coastal exploration, and activities including kayaking, snorkeling, and our glass-bottom boat
- Complimentary wetsuit rental
Not included in your voyage
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Luggage handling
Notes
- All planned activities are subject to weather and conditions
- Excursions and activities are subject to change
- Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
- No gratuities expected onboard
- Washers and dryers available onboard for guest use
- Please read our health & safety guidelines
MS Santa Cruz II
Year built | 2002 |
Year of refurbishment | 2021 |
Shipyard | ASENAV Shipyard (CHL) |
Passenger capacity | 90 |
Gross tonnage | 2664 T |
Length | 71,8 m |
Beam | 13,4 m |
Speed | 10.5 knots |
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.
Practical information
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