
Galápagos Islands Wildlife Expedition Cruise
Galápagos Islands Wildlife Expedition Cruise
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.
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 comprehensive itinerary calls at the centrally-located Santa Cruz Island, the volcanic island of Fernandina, Isabela and Floreana - two of the four islands visited by Darwin - and balmy Baltra, before continuing to Santiago, the adjacent islands of Rábida and Bartolomé, and isolated Genovesa. The landings take in a wide variety of ecosystems and picturesque landscapes, and provide great opportunities for seeing wildlife such as sea lions, turtles, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, flamingos 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.
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Day 1
Quito, Ecuador
Fly to the city of eternal spring, get your bearings and relax after your journey.
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Day 2
Quito, Ecuador
A day of wandering in Quito as you adjust to the sights and sounds of South America.
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Day 3
Quito, Ecuador
Get a taste for rural Ecuador with a visit to a traditional market and a trip to Cotopaxi Volcano.
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Day 4
Galápagos, Ecuador
Fly away from the mainland to the Galápagos Islands and have your first wildlife encounter.
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Day 5
Isabela and Fernandina Islands, Galápagos
Explore the coast by dinghy and set foot on the island of the marine iguanas.
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Day 6
Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos
Meet the famous giant tortoises of Galápagos at the Charles Darwin Research Station.
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Day 7
Floreana Island, Galápagos
Discover a bit of Galápagos history and look out for some underwater wildlife.
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Day 8
Galápagos, Ecuador
Relaxation day at Santa Cruz. Recharge your batteries and lounge on Las Bachas beach.
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Day 9
Santiago Island, Galápagos
Explore Santiago Island and see its wild residents and impressive rock formations.
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Day 10
Rábida Island and Bartolomé Island, Galápagos
See some amazing wildlife and beautiful landscapes, and try out the glass bottom boat.
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Day 11
Genovesa Island, Galápagos
Start the morning with a climb to really see this paradise for birdlife.
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Day 12
Santa Cruz & Baltra Island, Ecuador
It’s the end of your cruise, so enjoy a slow goodbye at the giant tortoise sanctuary.
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Day 13
Germany
Arrive back home in Germany at the end of your epic adventure.
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
Current offers on this cruise:
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Solo Traveller Offer
Solo travellers who prefer their own space while still travelling with others, have the opportunity to save on select voyages departing in 2023. For a limited time, pay no single supplement if you book one of the below expedition cruises.This offer applies to a selection of departures that you can find on each voyage page.See Special Offer
What's included
Included in your voyage
Hotel
- Three nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on DAY 2 and 3.
Flights
- Return flights in economy class from Amsterdam to Quito and back from Guayaquil including all taxes
- Return flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, and Baltra and Guayaquil
Transfers
- All transfers in Quito, transfers between Baltra Airport and ship
Excursion
- Full day Cultural Tour of Quito, including lunch
- Full day Nature Tour to Cotopaxi National Park, including lunch
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
- 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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