Luxury Galapagos Cruise

San Cristobal will be reached by plane, and upon arriving, the group will transfer to the luxury expedition yacht. Enjoy some time to settle and find your sea legs before sailing to Leon Dormido. Erosion has split the rock and subsequently created one of the natural world’s most arresting photograph backdrops. Whilst circumnavigating the formation it’s not uncommon to spot Blue-Footed Boobies and playful marine mammals. The day will be rounded off with a cocktail reception and multi-course dinner.

Experience a remarkable day on your luxury gay vacation in the Galapagos as you arrive at Genovesa Island, a bird-watching paradise. Your guides will lead you to incredible sightings, including red-footed boobies nesting in palo santo trees, Nazca boobies by the trail, and a multitude of storm petrels in an expansive lava field. Keep an eye out for the elusive short-eared owl. After a BBQ lunch on the yacht’s sun deck and a demonstration of Ecuadorian ceviche-making, choose to explore the cliffs by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or join a deep-water snorkeling excursion.

In the afternoon, land at Darwin Bay, a stunning coral sand beach. Witness swallow-tailed and lava gulls near tide pools, while a forest of Opuntia cactus and mangroves shelters Great frigate birds with their striking inflated red pouches. Conclude your day with beach relaxation or a swim with friendly sea lions. At night, enjoy dinner on board, and if the skies are clear, stargaze on the deck. Your guides will help identify constellations and the bird species flying alongside the yacht.

Day four begins with a visit to Las Bachas on Santa Cruz’s northern side. Marvel at bright pink flamingos in the lagoons and enjoy a serene stroll on the white sand beach. Expert guides will share insights about endemic plants and Galapagos history. Take the chance to snorkel from the beach, capturing underwater wonders with your camera. Afterward, delve into a fascinating lecture on marine currents, climate, and island geology.

In the afternoon, explore Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill) for panoramic bay views. Spot flamingos in the brackish lagoon and discover unique plant species like opuntia cactus and Palo Santo. As you walk the trail, watch for Darwin’s finches, Galapagos flycatchers, and more. Keep an eye out for golden Land iguanas, exclusive to the Galapagos, basking in the sun. Return to the yacht for a briefing and a delightful dinner.

Embark on your morning adventure with a Zodiac ride at Punta Vicente Roca. Cruise through wave-sculpted caves and get up close to colorful Sally light-foot crabs on tuff walls. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel alongside playful penguins and graceful sea turtles. After lunch, unwind on the sun deck and soak in the scenery while sailing through the Bolivar Chanel. Keep an eye out for breaching whales, bow-riding bottle-nose dolphins, and leaping spinner dolphins. You might even spot a Mola-Mola, a peculiar giant sunfish.

In the afternoon, disembark at Urbina Bay on Isabela and witness evidence of volcanic activity. A dramatic uplift during a 1954 eruption exposed four miles of coastal seabed, with some towering coral skeletons still intact. Explore a diverse array of wildlife, including Galapagos land iguanas, marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, and more. Return to the vessel for your nightly briefing and dinner. After dessert, step outside to gaze at the Milky Way’s pale glow. Enjoy a playful evening with pirate-clad crew and optional guest participation.

Explore the geological marvel of Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, the youngest and purest Galapagos island shaped by active volcanoes hugging its coast. This pristine island’s ecosystem remains untouched by introduced animals. Witness sea lion harems on the beach, with vigilant bulls safeguarding their turf against potential shark threats to the pups. Along the rugged shoreline, the largest Galapagos marine iguana colony blends seamlessly with dark rocks. Nearby, discover flightless cormorant nests.

Enjoy snorkeling amidst large sea turtles before a BBQ lunch on the sundeck, offering excellent whale-watching views. Your guide provides insights on Charles Darwin and the Theory of Evolution, as well as Galapagos-focused social and environmental projects.

In the afternoon, Tagus Cove unveils the human history of the Galapagos, once a favored pirate and whaler anchorage. Hike briskly to a saltwater lagoon and scenic viewpoint, observing ocean vistas, lava fields, and volcanic formations. Kayak or paddleboard along the secluded cove’s shoreline teeming with Galapagos wildlife. As we sail toward the archipelago’s geographic center, we’ll cross the equator for the third and final time at nightfall.

This morning, disembark on Rabida’s dark red beach, considered the Galapagos’ geographic center due to its diverse volcanic rocks. A short trail leads to a saltwater lagoon home to Greater Flamingos. Spot marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and Darwin’s finches along the way. Snorkel options include encounters with sea lions and rays, including golden rays and spotted eagle rays.

Travelers aboard the Theory and Evolve vessels explore Puerto Egas on Santiago (James Island). Stroll the shoreline to discover octopus, starfish, and tide pool life. Keep an eye out for various heron species, American Oystercatchers, and yellow-crowned night herons. Witness marine iguanas feasting on green algae during low tide, showcasing vibrant colors during mating season. The walk concludes at grottos, hosting fur sea lions once on the brink of extinction. Enjoy beach snorkeling opportunities before an afternoon sail, often accompanied by dolphin sightings.

Guests aboard the Origin experience a Zodiac excursion at Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove), navigating serene coves and mangrove-lined inlets. Observe mating sea turtles, reef sharks, and cow-nosed rays. Return for the Captain’s Farewell cocktail, dinner, and a special presentation by guides.

Awaken to the bustling Academy Bay harbor, where your yacht is among the many anchored vessels. Disembark at Puerto Ayora, SANTA CRUZ Island, the Galapagos’ social core with 24,000 residents. Begin your day at the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena and Charles Darwin Research Station, discovering ongoing conservation efforts through informative exhibits. Observe hatchlings and miniature tortoises destined for repatriation, paying tribute to the last Pinta Island tortoise, Lonesome George, and celebrating the successful conservation efforts of Diego, a saddleback tortoise.

After lunch on the yacht, a short bus ride takes you to Santa Cruz’s highlands. Explore a lava tunnel, visit Los Gemelos (The Twins) craters adorned with vibrant vegetation, and proceed to Rancho Primicias, a private hacienda where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Some weigh over 500 pounds, and you can observe them feeding or resting in shallow pools. Return to the yacht by zodiac for a sumptuous multi-course farewell dinner and a heartfelt farewell from the crew.

This morning you’ll disembark from the yacht after breakfast.