Galapagos Islands: Volcanic Wonders aboard Origin, Theory & Evolve

The itinerary starts in the city of Quito in the highlands of Ecuador just south of the equator (alternatively you may fly from Guayaquil). This lovely colonial town is famous for its markets and churches and excellent museums. Embark on an unforgettable voyage as you arrive to the enchanting Galapagos Islands in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (SCY) SAN CRISTOBAL Island. Our attentive guides eagerly await your arrival to seamlessly escort you to the awaiting expedition yacht. After a brief ride via a private minibus to the dock, transfer to the yacht anchored in a calm bay by Zodiac. Upon boarding, your senses will be delighted with a delectable lunch, setting the tone for the exquisite experiences to come. As you settle into your well-appointed cabin, a warm welcome briefing awaits, ensuring you are acquainted with the yacht’s amenities. A brief safety drill follows, ensuring your peace of mind throughout the journey. Immerse yourself in the luxurious comfort of your surroundings as the yacht gracefully departs from the harbour. As the sun begins to descend, revel in the breathtaking spectacle of Leon Dormido, (Spanish for sleeping lion), a majestic remnant of a vertical tuff cone rising 500 feet from the ocean. Erosion has split the rock providing a spectacular backdrop for stunning photographs. Spot blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies and frigatebirds as we circumnavigate and get closer to the rock formation. An evening of refined elegance awaits as our Captain and crew invite you to a cocktail reception, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow adventurers. The guides will brief you on the activities for the following day. The grand finale of the day unfolds with an exquisite multi-course dinner meticulously prepared by our accomplished chefs, ensuring your culinary experience matches the splendor of the surrounding Islands. Welcome to a five-star journey of exploration where every moment is crafted to exceed your expectation. NOTE: This itinerary is flexible and subject to change due to weather conditions and circumstances beyond our control. It should be used as a guide only.

Meals:  L,D

Gear up for an exhilarating day as we land at Prince Philip’s Steps (4), Genovesa (TOWER) Island, a hotspot for adrenaline-pumping bird watching. Get ready to capture the action with your camera, as our expert naturalist guides lead you to witness one of the most spectacular sites in the Galapagos for bird watching because of its diversity of species. Witness red-footed boobies nesting in palo santo trees, Nazca boobies nesting near the trail, and storm petrels converging in large numbers in an open lava field. You’re your eyes peeled for the elusive shorteared owl – it’s a thrilling quest! Lunch is a sensational affair serve on deck, weather permitting, featuring succulent seafood grilled on the BBQ Brace yourself for a culinary adventure with a cooking demonstration showcasing the art of crafting Ecuadorian ceviche. After lunch, you’ll have the option to explore the cliffs up close via kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or join a deep-water snorkeling excursion from the Zodiac (2). Keep an eye out for the stunning red-billed tropic bird, a hidden gem in the crevices of the rock. As the day unfolds, make a splash at Darwin Bay (1), a gorgeous coral sand beach. Marvel at the sight of swallow-tailed gulls and lava gulls gathering near the tide pools, where a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves serve as a backdrop for the Great frigatebirds. Witness the mesmerizing courtship ritual as males inflate a red pouch on their chest to attract a mate. Wind down the afternoon with a leisurely time on the beach or dive into the warm northern waters to swim with playful sea lions. Return to the yacht and head to the sundeck for a touch of upscale indulgence. Enjoy gourmet snacks and savor craft beer from local breweries in the Galapagos. The evening continues with a briefing and a delicious dinner. If the night sky is clear, step out onto the deck to be dazzled by a celestial display of bright stars. Our knowledgeable guides will not only point out constellations but also help you to identify the species of birds soaring alongside the yacht.

Meals:  B,L,D

Embark on a refined morning adventure as you set food on Las Bachas (1), translated to English means “barges” a hidden gem on the northern side of Santa Cruz. Elegant American Flamingos gracefully feed in the interior lagoons, creating a picturesque scene against the backdrop of a pristine and expansive white sandy beach – perfect for a leisurely stroll. Our guides will elevate your experience with insights into endemic plant species and captivating Galapagos history. Seize the opportunity to snorkel from the beach, accompanied by playful sea lions, before indulging in a delectable lunch on board. Capture the underwater world, immortalizing encounters with colourful tropical fish, sea stars, turtles and perhaps even sharks gliding along the ocean floor. Immerse yourself in an enrichment lecture, informative and entertaining, focusing on the marine currents, weather patterns or the geology of the islands. In the afternoon, the adventure continues with a visit to Cerro Dragon (3) (Dragon Hill). Step ashore to revel in a magnificent panoramic view of the bay and island landscape. Marvel at the sight of flamingos gracing the brackish lagoon, surrounded by Opuntia cactus, Palo Santo, and Muyuyo trees (Cordia Lutea). Hike along a trail where you’ll encounter Darwin’s Finches, Galapagos flycatchers, yellow warblers, and Audubon shearwaters. Our attentive guides will highlight the presence of stilts, pintail ducks and sandpipers along the path. Keep your eyes peeled for the golden land iguanas, unique to the Galapagos and once a part of the Darwin Station’s breeding program. Conclude your walk with a return to the yacht for another night of sophistication and culinary adventure in the Galapagos.

Meals:  B,L,D

Elevate your morning with another day of adventure as you embark on a thrilling zodiac ride at Elizabeth Bay or Punta Vicente Roca (1). Glide through the mangroves or explore wave-sculpted caves getting up close to tuff walls adorned with vibrant sally light-foot crabs. Seize the opportunity for an active underwater escapade with a snorkeling excursion (2). Dive into the crystal-clear waters where playful penguins dart and glide showcasing their aquatic prowess or grooming themselves on rock formations. Witness sea turtles gracefully emerging and submerging beneath the surface, creating magical moments. After lunch, head to the shaded sundeck to luxuriate in the scenery as we sail through the enchanting Bolivar Chanel. Brace yourself for an active encounter with marine life, as whales breach, bottle-nose dolphins ride the bow wave, and spinner dolphins perform acrobatic jumps in graceful arcs. You may spot a Mola-Mola, a giant sunfish with triangular fins and a stubbly tail fin. In the afternoon, disembark at Urbina Bay on ISABELA (2) and witness evidence of dramatic volcanic activity. Explore four miles of exposed coastal seabed, a result of a volcanic eruption in 1954. Marvel at the remnants of coral skeletons standing several feet high. Encounter a diverse array of animal species, including Galapagos land iguanas, marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, brown pelicans, flightless cormorants, and the giant Galapagos tortoise – one of the few places they are seen in the wild! After your exploration, return to the yacht for gourmet snacks and an insightful briefing followed by dinner that transcends expectations. Join us on deck for an Espresso Martini crafted from Galapagos grown coffee. Cap off the evening by stepping on deck to witness the ethereal glow of the glow of the Milky Way. As we cross the Equator, an invitation awaits you at the bridge to witness the crossing and capture the iconic 0.0.0 milestone from this exclusive vantage point from the bridge.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning breakfast is served on deck where you can savor Galapagos coffee or indulge in a refreshing Mimosa. Embark on a fun-filled morning, as we unveil another geological wonder at Punta Espinoza on FERNANDINA Island (4), the youngest and most pristine Island in the Galapagos, formed by active volcanoes that stretch along the coast. Immerse yourself in an ecosystem untouched by introduced animals, witnessing sea lion harems lounging on the beach. Resident bull sea lions diligently guard their territory, keeping a watchful eye for sharks that may threaten the colony’s pups. Along the rugged shoreline, hundreds of marine iguana, forming the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun and blend into the dark lava rocks. Explore the point to discover the nests of flightless cormorants, now close to shore since losing their ability to fly. Dive into the pristine waters for an invigorating snorkelling excursion, accompanied by the graceful presence of sea turtles. Return to the yacht for a BBQ lunch served on the shaded sundeck while anchored in a calm bay, offering a prime view for whale watching. Dine on a feast of grilled seafood and sample beer tasting featuring breweries from the Galapagos. Enrich yourself in a fascinating talk on a topic your guide is passionate about and relevant to the Islands. Delve into the fascinating world of Charles Darwin and his Theory of Evolution, or on the arrival and establishment of species to the Islands. After lunch, venture ashore at Tagus Cove (5) to explore the human history of the Galapagos. This was a favored anchorage for pirates and whalers for centuries. Rocky cliffs covered with graffiti date back to the 1800s. Opt for a faster paced hike to a saltwater lagoon and scenic overview, taking in the ocean, lava fields, and volcanic formations. For a more active experience, paddle through the secluded cove on a kayak or stand up paddleboard, surrounded by abundant wildlife, including Galapagos penguins, boobies, pelicans, and other seabirds. As we set sail toward the geographic center of the archipelago, relish the moment as we cross the equator for the third and final time. The evening promises excitement, sophistication, and a touch of maritime magic, setting the stage for an unforgettable night in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.

Meals:  B,L,D

Embrace an active and exhilarating morning as you disembark on the distinctive red beach of RABIDA (Jervis) (2). This small island holds the esteemed title of the geographic center of the Galapagos boasting the most diverse volcanic rocks in the archipelago. A short trail will lead you to a saltwater lagoon occupied by Greater Flamingos. Along the way, look for marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and Darwin’s finches. Over a dozen species of finches live on the islands and observing them contributed to Charles Darwin’s ideas that formed the basis for his theory of evolution. If you choose to snorkel this morning (2), you may see a colony of sea lions or rays. Several species of rays live in Galapagos. Golden rays and spotted eagle rays are the most common. This afternoon we embark on an exclusive zodiac excursion at Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove)-1 navigating through serene coves and inlets surrounded by mangroves. Witness pairs of mating sea turtles (from September to February), white-tipped reef sharks and golden cow-nosed rays. Return to your yacht for gourmet snacks, an Ecuadorian cocktail, and the evening briefing. Prepare for a whimsical evening with a visit from King Neptune himself! Our crew transforms into pirates for an engaging maritime ritual, offering optional guest participation for a memorable night suitable for guests of all ages. Embrace the spirit of adventure and indulge in the unique charm of the Galapagos Islands.

Meals:  B,L,D

You’ll awaken in the vibrant harbor of Academy Bay – the social hub of the Galapagos with a population of 24,000 residents. This morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora, SANTA CRUZ (2) Island, and board a private bus for a scenic excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz traversing diverse vegetation zones with lush greenery at higher elevations. The morning unfolds with an extraordinary visit to Rancho Primicias or El Chato, privately-owned ranches where majestic tortoises roam freely in their pristine natural habitat. These gentle giants, that grow to exceed 500 pounds, offer an awe-inspiring spectacle. The estate unveils enchanting lava tunnels to explore, providing a truly immersive experience. You will have the opportunity to join the “Green Team” and participate in a reforestation project by planting a tree courtesy. Embrace the opportunity to leave a positive legacy for generations to come and discover the vital role native plants provide in nurturing Galapagos ecosystems. Our next destination is Los Gemelos (the twins), a pair of massive volcanic craters that stand as a testament to the island’s geological grandeur. You have the option to remain in town to sample local cuisine in Puerto Ayora at lunch time on your own account. Ask your guides for their recommendations. Otherwise, return to the yacht for a delicious buffet style lunch onboard. This afternoon, we’ll visit the breeding center at Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena (2) followed by the Charles Darwin Research Station Exhibition Hall – a unique opportunity to witness ongoing conservation efforts. The wooden walkway is adorned with informative exhibits, showcasing hatchlings and miniature tortoises destined for repatriation by the National Park upon reaching maturity. We pay homage to Lonesome George, the last surviving tortoise from Pinta Island, and a worldwide icon. His extinction emphasizes the crucial need to preserve and protect endangered wildlife. You will encounter several species of tortoises that will be repatriated once they reach maturity. A saddleback tortoise whose species was once reduced to a mere 14 individuals, played a crucial role in its recovery. After being transported from the San Diego Zoo, “Super Diego” fathered hundreds of descendants before returning to Espanola Island, embodying a hopeful narrative in wildlife conservation. Take a leisurely stroll through the seaside village and stop in at the boutiques selling local art, jewellry, and souvenirs as you make your way to the pier. Back on board, there is a farewell gathering with the Captain and crew, with a moment for reflection and gratitude. The evening crescendos with a captivating presentation, a nostalgic journey through the highlights of the week enveloped in absolute paradise. Finally, a grand multi-course dinner unfolds, a culinary masterpiece showcasing the finest ingredients and artful presentation.

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning you’ll disembark the yacht after breakfast. As a perfect way to sum up the trip, you’ll visit the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal to discover more about the human history of the Galapagos Islands. There’s also a paved trail where you can enjoy a brief walk before a bus ride to town. You’ll have some free time for last minute photos before your transfer to the airport. It’s a quick flight back to the mainland, but you’ll be bringing lifelong memories with you! Upon arrival on the mainland, your trip concludes. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and the order of the visits may vary.

Meals:  B