Boundless Journeys Galapagos Islands
Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands

Cruise Ecuador's Galapagos Islands and encounter rare and beautiful wildlife. Swim with sea lions, stand next to a Blue-footed Booby feeding its young, and float eye-to-eye with a penguin.

Ecuador Trip Overview

There is no better synonym for Ecuador than diversity. This small country has a cultural and biological richness that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world. The Galapagos Islands live up to our dreams of a sheltered place far removed from the usual concerns. The skies are almost always sunny, and the sea breezes create that perfect air temperature, instantly relaxing the body. The ocean is an ever inviting turquoise blue, matched by long sandy beaches of crystal white, pink, and volcanic black. There are quiet coves and mangrove lagoons, and that's just for starters. What will make your exploration of the Galapagos Islands truly exceptional are the many opportunities for close-up encounters with wildlife. The islands and surrounding waters are quite literally teeming with exotic and colorful creatures that have never learned to fear humans.

Our naturalist-led cruise introduces us to many wonders that are unique to the Galapagos Islands. We visit blue-footed boobies, land iguanas basking in the sun, lively sea lions, and families of penguins, among many other diverse species. Our active adventure allows us to discover the Galapagos from many different perspectives. We enjoy snorkeling with sea lions, walking on volcanic islands, paddling kayaks through peaceful mangrove lagoons, strolling bare-footed along sun drenched beaches, or simply lying back and relaxing in the equatorial sun.

Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-2: Arrive in Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador and transfer to our hotel. Optional guided tours on day 2, or feel free to explore these fascinating cities on your own.

Days 3-9: Fly to the Galapagos Islands and board our yacht. The next seven days are sure to be among the most memorable of your life as we cruise the Galapagos, visiting many of the same places Charles Darwin did over 150 years ago. Each day provides one-of-a-kind experiences. With a naturalist guide, discover the wonders of the islands. Visit several islands, each with its own special highlights: beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, volcanoes, marine iguanas, penguins, giant tortoises, and other delights. Cruise the islands in style on our comfortable yacht, with private bathrooms, hot showers and air conditioning.

Day 10: Return to Quito or Guayaquil mid-late afternoon.

Day 11: Departure at your leisure.

Early Booking Recommended for Holiday Travel
Our yachts fill up quickly Easter, Christmas, and New Year's weeks. If you plan to visit the Galapagos Islands during the holidays it is a good idea to reserve 6+ months in advance. Please call or contact us at any time to check on availability.

Travel with family and friends aboard a private yacht

Create your own unique and memorable cruise for family and friends by chartering a deluxe yacht for just your group. We can customize your tour by offering longer cruises, or tailor an itinerary to your specific interests, such as birding, snorkeling, photography, or hiking. Why wait? Call today! 1-800-941-8010.

Proud Members of the International Galapagos Tour Operators Association

A non-profit association dedicated to the complete and lasting protection of the Galapagos Islands. Their mission is to preserve the Galapagos Islands as a unique and priceless world heritage site, that will provide enjoyment, education, adventure, and inspiration to present and future generations of travelers. If you travel to the Galapagos the most important decision you make is the choice of a responsible travel company. By choosing an IGTOA member you will travel with a knowledgeable and responsible tour operator that supports sustainable ecotourism.

THE PRIVATE COLLECTION ADVANTAGE

  • Independent travel at its best. With your own exclusive party of family or friends, you'll enjoy itineraries developed from our years of experience.
     
  • Your dates, your friends. You chose your dates and traveling companions, and let us do the rest!
     
  • Reconnect in remarkable places. What better way to celebrate important milestones than with family and friends in amazing places, with all of the details handled for you so you can simply relax and enjoy each other’s company?
     
  • Do your own thing. Customize your journey to indulge your most amazing travel fantasies.
     
  • Travel with Trusted Leaders in Adventure Travel. Recognized by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine as a Top 10 "World's Best Tour Operator and Safari Outfitter".

 

Trip Rating (1 Easiest - 5 Most Strenuous)

Description of Trip Ratings

Adventure travel may involve exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, and activities that may be new to you. We want to make sure that you choose the adventure that's right for you from our many one-of-a-kind trips. Each trip is rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest, and 5 being the most strenuous. A few of our trips have had a “+” added to the number, indicating something that falls in between. Our Trip Ratings may be found on the trip schedule and on our website. Our detailed itineraries provide additional information on what to expect on the trip you are considering (detailed itineraries are available by mail, fax, or e-mail; or you can find them on our website, www.boundlessjourneys.com).We encourage you to call one of our travel experts with any questions or concerns that you may have. We are always happy to assist you in any way that we can.

EASIEST 1

Our easiest trips are generally hotel-based cultural and nature journeys that typically offer light activity. Optional walks and hikes (approximately 2 to 4 hours) through gentle terrain with little elevation gain or loss. Altitude is typically not a factor on these tours. Other activities, such as snorkeling or sea kayaking, are optional. Examples: Indochina, Galapagos Islands Cruise, Tanzania.

EASY TO MODERATE 2

Hotel nights and/or deluxe, safari-style camping. Walking, hiking (approximately 3 to 5 hours), kayaking, or other activities on most days. Trails and paths are through rolling countryside, with occasional steep trails with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Many of our hotel-based walking trips are in this category. Examples: Tuscany & Umbria, Morocco, Costa Rica.

MODERATE 3

Full day hikes (approximately 4 to 6 hours) most days on unpaved trails and paths through hilly terrain with typical elevation gains and losses of 1,000 to 2,000 feet. There may be occasional short steep sections of trail. Examples: Canadian Rockies, Scotland, Spain.

MODERATE TO STRENUOUS 4

Full day hikes (approximately 5 to 7 hours) through mountainous terrain with significant elevation gains and losses (2,000 to 3,000 feet). Terrain may be rugged with uneven footpaths. The average altitude is generally no more than 12,000 feet. Options are limited. These trips typically involve some camping or simple accommodations.Examples: Tour du Mont Blanc, Peru Trek.

MOST STRENUOUS 5

Full-day trekking (approximately 6 to 8 hours) through rugged mountainous terrain with steep climbs and descents and one or more of the following present: elevation gains and losses of as much as 4,000 feet, altitude that exceeds 12,000 feet, and rugged uneven footpaths. These trips typically offer few options and include camping.

Activity Details

Easy to moderate walking and hiking 2-4 hours per day; plenty of time in the Galapagos Islands for daily snorkeling, swimming, and sea kayaking.

Meeting Point

Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador

Departure Point

Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador

Traveling to and From

Most Convenient Airport:
Quito International Airport (Airport code UIO), or Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport, Guayauquil (Airport code GYE)

Meeting Time and Place:
You will be met at the Quito or Guayaquil airport by a Boundless Journeys representative upon the arrival of your international flight on the first day of the trip (Day 1). Please look for a sign with your name on it, or that of Boundless Journeys. Most flights from the U.S. arrive into Ecuador in the late afternoon or evening. You will be transferred to our first hotel where, if you choose, you will be picked up for a day tour at 9:00 a.m. on Day 2, or you will be transported to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands on the morning of Day 3.

Departure Time and Place:
Day 11, at your leisure, Quito International Airport or Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport, Guayaquil.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Physical Activity
Boundless Journeys’ trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. The Galapagos Islands is rated 1+, easy, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous). The walks on this trip average 2-4 hours per day. There will be plenty of time in the Galapagos for daily snorkeling, swimming, or sea kayaking.

 
Life on board a yacht requires physical agility and a flexible and social nature. Daily excursions from our yachts aboard our zodiac, or panga, bring us ashore for walks and wildlife observation. Walking times from our landing areas are typically a couple of hours with plenty of time to study, enjoy, and photograph the flora and fauna. Some of our landings are dry, but many may be “wet,” requiring cautious footing and a good sense of balance on slippery rocks. Crew members will be there to assist you.
 
The Galapagos Islands are ideal for healthy, active people of all ages looking to enjoy nature up close. While a trip to the islands can be fairly easy when it comes to activity, a basic level of fitness is in order. Even though our walks are evenly paced in gorgeous settings, you can expect some long walks in hot weather. Quito stands at roughly 9,500 feet above sea level, so a stroll along the cobblestones of its colonial sector can cause shortness of breath. It’s really up to you how much or little you want to participate in activities versus relaxing.
 
Preparing for this Trip
It is important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! Please engage in moderate aerobic activities (walking, jogging, or cycling) for at least 30-45 minutes several times a week for 4-6 weeks before the trip. Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness programs. 
 
Weather
Though Ecuador is named for being on the equator, it encompasses the snowcapped mountains of the Andes, the tropical rainforests of the Amazon, and the pleasant marine climate found in the Galapagos, making for a wide range of temperatures and climates.
 
The Andes: Quito
Quito can be surprisingly cool and misty, but in general the highlands are usually sunny and quite warm by midday. Temperatures in the Andean mountains vary, but generally speaking, the higher the elevation, the cooler the temperature. It tends to be drier from June to September and wettest from January to May. Average temperatures throughout the year are high in the mid 60’s during the day, and low in the mid-upper 40’s during the evening.
 
The Coast: Guayaquil
As a coastal city just a few hundred kilometers from the equator, Guayaquil has a tropical climate. From November through March Guayaquil is sunny, hot, and humid, with occasional rain showers. The rest of the year, due to the Humboldt Current, it is cloudier, dryer, and cooler but daytime temperatures rarely dip below 80°F. Average temperatures throughout the year are high in the mid-to upper 80’s during the day, and low to mid 70’s during the evening.
 
The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate regulated by the cold Humboldt Current and the warm El Niño Current. November through March is the warmest time of year, with highs in the upper 80's. Although the islands receive slightly more rainfall during this time, the lower elevations of the islands, where you will spend almost your entire trip, typically offer blue skies and sunshine with occasional haze. The sea is at its warmest and is usually calmer at this time of year. Average temperatures for the Galapagos Islands range from the upper 70's in the summer to the mid to upper 80's in the winter and spring.

Average surface water temperatures for the Galapagos Islands range from 70°F in the fall to 76°F in the winter.

You may obtain more detailed weather information by visiting www.weatherbase.com.
 
When to Go
The Galapagos and Andes can be enjoyed at any time of the year, with each season offering certain benefits. The best time to visit is up to your individual preference. There are two seasons in the Galapagos: the warm season (November-March), and the cool season (April-October). If you prefer warmer days, higher ocean temperatures, and calmer seas, then you may want to consider a departure during the warm season. In addition to abundant wildlife, the warm season offers calm, clear waters great for snorkeling. It is also a good time to view the green sea turtles that come to the islands to breed.
 
Cool season departures are typically characterized by slightly less rainfall, cooler daytime temperatures, and fewer visitors. The cool season is the best time of year to view baby sea lions, courting albatrosses, dancing boobies, whales, and dolphins. No matter when you visit, there is always much to see.

Ecuador Accommodations

Overview:  A conveniently located first-class city hotel in your choice of Quito or Guayaquil, and a deluxe yacht to cruise the Galapagos Islands. All private baths.

Nights 1, 2 & 10:  Hotel Hilton Colon
Quito, Ecuador

Hotel Hilton Colon, Quito, Ecuador Located in the business district with spectacular views of the city. Enjoy the fitness center and spa, an outdoor heated pool, and a choice of five restaurants.


 

OR


Nights 1, 2 & 10:  Hotel
Hilton Colon
Guayaquil, Ecuador

Ecuador land-based, Hotel Hilton Colon, Guayaquil, EcuadorA modern downtown hotel close to restaurants and five minutes from the airport. Amenities include a health club and spa, an outdoor pool, and five restaurants. 

 

 


Nights 3-9: Cruise

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Boundless Journeys'  yachts are all rated first-class, or luxury yachts, in the Galapagos. They boast the most spacious accommodations, top level cuisine, private baths, air conditioned cabins, and superior service onboard to ensure an unforgettable Galapagos experience.

The Eclipse

48 guests in 26 cabins, plus 31 crew members, 4 naturalist guides, 1 cruise director and 1 doctor.

The Eclipse accommodates half the number of passengers of vessels her size in the Galapagos. This vessel preserves a smaller boat atmosphere and attention to detail. Features aboard the Eclipse include an alfresco dining area for all 48 passengers, a naturalist guide for every 12 passengers, two single passenger cabins, and a library/video room. The Eclipse is equipped with such amenities as air conditioning, a jacuzzi, observation deck, and an entertainment center with library, stereo, VCR & TV, and on-board shop for anything thing you might have forgotten. Click here for the Eclipse Deck Plan.

 

 

 

 


The Eric, Flamingo, and Letty 

20 guests in 10 cabins, plus 10 crew members, and 2 naturalist guides.

Built in 1991 and refurbished annually, these superior first-class sister yachts accommodate no more than 20 guests each and feature three decks of spacious staterooms with polished teak interiors trimmed with shiny brass fittings. Accommodations include ten double outside-facing cabins with a window or porthole view, one double bed or two twin lower beds, fully air-conditioned with private bath (hot and cold water showers), hair dryer, closet, drawers, intercom and separate climate controls for your comfort. There’s a dining room, well-stocked bar and conference area with a flat screen TV and panoramic picture windows. You can always relax in a lounge chair on the sun deck and enjoy sea breezes, sunshine or a sky full of stars. Click here for the Eric, Flamingo, and Letty Deck Plan.

 

 

 

  


The Nina

Galapagos Cruise Nina Yacht

18 guests in 10 cabins plus 10 crew members, 1 naturalist guide, and 1 cruise manager.

The Nina is the first of the brand new Kat-700 luxury catamaran series and is the most modern vessel in the Galapagos. Her speed, comfort, luxurious interiors, and excellent itinerary make the Nina perfect for your Galapagos Cruise. All cabins boast the luxury of a private balcony and the new stability system ensures the smoothest of rides. Guests have the choice of eating in the elegant indoor dining area or outside in al-fresco style. The Nina offers a comfortable lounge area and library complete with plasma TVs, lap tops (no internet service), DVD player, and stereo. The upper deck has a well-stocked bar and a beautiful open teak deck area for relaxation, dining, and barbeques. The huge sundeck features a jacuzzi and is great for watching whales and dolphins or to simply relax and soak up the sun between island excursions. In the evenings there is no better place for star gazing. Click here for the Nina Deck Plan.

Nina Cabin Galapagos Cruise

Nina Cabin Galapagos Cruise

 

 

 

 

 


Ecuador Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1
Arrival in Ecuador

Upon arrival of your flight into Quito or Guayaquil, you will be met by a Boundless Journeys representative and transferred to your hotel.
Hotel Hilton Colon, Quito or Guayaquil

DAY 2
Mainland Exploration

Today’s activities are entirely up to you. Perhaps you will decide to join a Boundless Journeys guide for a city tour of Quito or Guayaquil, or a drive into the highlands and the famous market town of Otavalo. Of course, you may also choose to spend the day exploring on your own.

Quito is nestled in a long, narrow valley in the Andes, between the Volcano Pichincha to the west and the Machángara River Canyon to the east. The historical center – or “old town,” as it’s called – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a maze of colonial splendor.

Guayaquil, located further south on the Pacific coast, offers a multitude of archaeological and colonial sites, monuments, museums, and parks. Main attractions of Guayaquil include a newly restored boardwalk, Malecon 2000, with an incredible view of River Guayas, the famous Iguana Park (Parque Bolívar), and colonial churches such as The Cathedral, La Merced, and Santo Domingo.

If you prefer to explore the volcanic highlands of Ecuador, you may opt to take a 2 ½ hour drive north from Quito to Otavalo, Ecuador’s famed market town. Here you can find all types of indigenous handcrafts, from woven wall-hangings to skillfully embroidered blouses and dresses, and from hand-knitted alpaca sweaters to rustic ceramics and Panama hats. In addition to the crafts market, Otavalo has a farmers’ market where there is colorful and interesting Andean produce such as quinoa, tree tomatoes, and babaco.

Others may wish to relax today and enjoy the hotel pool in preparation for an unforgettable week in the Galapagos Islands.
Hotel Hilton Colon, Quito or Guayaquil

DAY 3 - Morning
Fly to the Galapagos Islands

Following an early breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our flight to the Galapagos Islands. As we approach the islands, the inviting turquoise-blue water surrounding the coast comes into view. We arrive in San Cristobal or Baltra, depending on your expedition vessel. Our naturalist Galapagos guide meets us after passing through park inspection, and soon we are departing from shore aboard a zodiac to reach our yacht. The captain and crew are there to greet us and show us to our cabins as well as give us a tour of the boat.

The next eight days are sure to be memorable as we cruise the Galapagos Islands, visiting many of the same places Charles Darwin did over 150 years ago. The active itinerary from our yacht features walks and hikes during shore excursions, and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and sea kayaking in tranquil coves and lagoons.
Deluxe Yacht, Galapagos Islands

DAYS 3 – 10
Galapagos Islands Cruise
Standard cruise is 8-days, longer and shorter options are available.

The cruise itinerary varies according to weather and local events, new Galapagos regulations, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience, but most trips will visit a combination of the following islands. For a list of the islands you can expect to visit on each cruise please click on the links below.

On Santa Cruz Island, we look for giant tortoises, woodpecker finches, and other diverse species in the highlands. We also visit the Charles Darwin Research Center in Puerto Ayora. On the north side of the island, we may enjoy flamingos and other coastal birds on the beautiful white sands of Las Bachas Beach, or perhaps we visit the iguana nesting site at Cerro Dragon. If you are cruising on the Eclipse, we take a panga ride to Black Turtle Cove, one of the most beautiful marine sites in the Galapagos. This complex maze of salt-water inlets, surrounded by three different species of mangrove, is a resting site for sea turtles, rays, and sharks.

At James Bay on Santiago Island, we land on a black sand beach. Our trail crosses a prevailing salt mine and tidal pools, home to a variety of starfish and other invertebrate organisms, and concludes at the Fur Seal Grottos, one of the only places in the islands where fur seals can be seen. We have time to swim and snorkel off the beach, where we may visit with sea lions, fish, turtles, and reef sharks.

Enjoy a visit to North Seymour Island if aboard the Nina. The rocky shore displays white sand and large flocks of pelicans. Along our trail we encounter Blue-footed Boobies and the largest nesting site in the Galapagos of the Magnificent Frigate bird.

Bartolomé Island has two visitor sites.  At the first site, we can swim and snorkel around Pinnacle Rock, where penguins are usually seen. A short panga ride takes us to a dry landing for a climb to the highest point on the islands. The route is not difficult and presents remnants of the last volcanic eruption: tuff cones and lava tubes in various stages of erosion. From the summit we have a spectacular view of Santiago Island, James Bay, and Pinnacle Rock.

Española (Hood Island) is the southernmost island on the archipelago, and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variety and sheer number of endemic fauna. At Punta Suarez, sea lions surf the waves, marine iguanas bask in the sun, Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies nest alongside the trail, and Galapagos Doves, Cactus Finch, and mockingbirds forage by. Our trail continues to a shelf of black lava where a blowhole shoots a geyser of water into the air. Farther east along the cliffs is the “Albatross Airport” where Waved Albatrosses line up to launch their great bodies.

On the northeastern shore of Española, Gardner Bay offers a magnificent long white sand beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore, and mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals. We may have time to snorkel or kayak by Tortuga Rock and Gardner Island where we can encounter sea lions and large schools of tropical fish.

On Floreana Island there are opportunities to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Champion Islet. Here an extinct volcano peaks out of the waters just off of Floreana’s coast and offers a magnificent snorkeling experience.  From here we head to Cormorant Point for a hike to a salt-water lagoon which is home to flamingos.

Also on Floreana Island is the famous Post Office Bay. Here we land on a beach and head to a spot where 18th-century whalers placed a wooden barrel for use as an unofficial mail box. The custom continues to this day with Galapagos visitors. So don’t forget your postcards, and don’t be surprised if the post card arrives to its destination before you even get home!

Genovesa Island (also called Tower Island) is alive with an active year-round colony of frigatebirds, the males inflating their red pouches to attract the females overhead. We also view Red-footed and Nazca Boobies and thousands of Storm Petrels. We have the opportunity to snorkel along the cliffs of Tower’s submerged caldera where anglefish, parrotfish, and perhaps manta rays can be seen. We also walk up Prince Philip’s Steps to a narrow stretch of land that opens onto the plateau surrounding Darwin Bay, where we may encounter Red-footed Boobies, Masked Boobies, and the Short-eared Owl.

Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos, is made up of a series of volcanoes. Tagus Cove makes for an ideal panga ride beneath its sheltered cliffs, where Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Noddies, pelicans, and Noddy Terns make their nests, and Flightless Cormorants and penguins inhabit the lava ledges. We continue along the southwestern coast of Isabela to visit the mangrove lagoons of Elizabeth Bay and Urbina Bay, where land iguanas and giant tortoises roam.  On the northern part of this diverse island, we visit Punta Vicente Roca, where the remnants of Volcano Ecuador, along with the upwelling of coldwater currents, create an abundance of marine life in sheltered turquoise coves.

We visit Islas Plaza on the Nina, a very special place for the Galapagos. Here we find a big colony of Sea Lions, land iguanas, several bird species, a beautiful view to the ocean from a cliff, and a forest of Opuntia Cacti.

At Punta Espinosa on Fernandina Island, penguins show off by throwing themselves from the rocks into the sea, red and turquoise-blue zayapas crabs disperse across the shoreline, while herons and egrets forage through the mangrove roots. A short walk leads to a large colony of marine iguanas resting atop one another in friendly heaps along the shore. Nearby, sea lions frolic in a sheltered lagoon, and farther down the shore we visit with the world’s only species of Flightless Cormorants.

Rábida Island, visited by the Eclipse and the Nina is one of the most volcanically varied islands in the chain. A visit begins with a wet landing on the deep maroon colored northern beach. Marine iguanas and sea lions are often seen resting in the shade of the caves nearby. Behind the beach is the salt brush home where the Brown Pelicans make their nests. Rábida may be the only opportunity visitors have to see pelicans nesting up close. On the cliffs above the pelicans, Blue-footed and Masked Boobies can be seen. Following the path, visitors arrive at a small saltwater lagoon where Pink Flamingos, Bahama Pintail Ducks, and Common Stilts are frequently seen feeding. Rábida offers the best lagoons in the islands for viewing flamingos.

We begin and end our journey aboard the Eric, Flamingo and Letty, on San Cristobal Island. Here we pay a visit to Leon Dormido, also known as Kicker Rock. This spectacular formation rises 500 feet out of the Pacific.  Heading northeast along the coast of San Cristobal, we land on the inviting powdery beach of Playa Ochoa, home to a small colony of sea lions. A tidal lagoon sitting behind the beach is frequented by flamingos, Darwin Finches, and the endemic San Cristobal Mockingbird. We may also have time to visit the Galapagos National Park Visitor Center, or we may drive to La Galapaguera, one of the Galapagos National Park’s tortoise breeding centers.

DAY 10
End Cruise and Return to Quito or Guayaquil

Today we motor back to port followed by a flight to Guayaquil or Quito. Arriving mid- to late-afternoon, depending on your cruise, you are transferred to your hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner on your own.
Hotel Hilton Colon, Quito or Guayaquil 

DAY 11
Departure

Today, at your leisure, you are transferred to the airport to connect with flights home, or possibly continue on to Cuenca or Otavalo with our Highlands South or Highlands North trip extensions.

Eclipse Daily Itinerary
Eric, Flamingo & Letty Itinerary
Nina Itinerary



Trip Length

10 Days

Trip Dates

Upcoming Trips:

Available most weeks throughout the year. If cruising on the Eclipse or the Nina, arrive mainland Ecuador on a Thursday, depart on a Sunday. If cruising on the Eric, Flamingo or Letty, arrive mainland Ecuador on a Friday, depart on a Monday.

Trip Cost

From $3,670 per person; inquire for charter rates.

2011 Rates (based on double occupancy)

All prices include 2 pre-cruise and one post-tour nights in Quito or Guayaquil, all airport transfers, 8-day cruise, and breakfasts on the mainland. Please inquire for cruises of shorter or longer duration.

The Eclipse (based on double occupancy)
Deluxe Stateroom: $6,470 per person
Superior Stateroom: $6,050 per person
Stateroom: $5,520 per person
Single Stateroom: $5,670

Additional notes:

  • Single Supplement: 1.5 x the twin rate for Staterooms, and 2 x the twin rate for Superior and Deluxe Staterooms. No Single Supplement for Single Stateroom.
  • Third person in Deluxe Stateroom is assessed at the Single Stateroom cabin rate.
  • Children under 12 will benefit from a 25% discount on all departures except Easter, Christmas, and New Years cruises. This discount applies to the cruise only. One child discount per Deluxe triple cabins.

The Eric, Flamingo, and Letty (based on double occupancy)
Dolphin Deck: $4,495 per person
Booby Deck: $4,120 per person
Iguana Deck: $3,745 per person
Single Cabin on Iguana Deck $5,520
Triple Cabin on Iguana Deck $3,670 per person

Additional notes:

  • Children under 12 will benefit from a 25% discount, and children 12-15 will benefit from a 15% discount on all departures except Easter, Christmas, and New Years cruises. This discount applies to the cruise only. One child’s discount per adult fare.
  • Children under 12 welcome on family departures. Inquire for specific dates.
  • Private charters available upon request.

The Nina (based on double occupancy):
All cabins: $5,665 per person high season; $5,065 per person low season
High season dates: April 23-30, July 2-August 20, November 19-26, December 17-31.

Additional notes:

  • Single Supplement: 30% surcharge.
  • Children under 12 will benefit from a 25% discount. This discount applies to the cruise only.
  • Easter, Christmas, and New Years week will have a surcharge of 20% per person.
  • 10% discount for groups of 6 or more.
  • Private charters available upon request.

Additional Fees:
Galapagos National Park Fees and Transit Card: $110 per person; $60 for children under 12 years of age

Optional pre/post cruise day tours: City tour in Quito or Guayaquil, or day trip to Otavalo Market from Quito (both options include lunch): $220 per person; $350 for single travelers.

Single Supplement

$300 (land only)

View Single Supplement Policy

Single Supplements:

Accommodations (hotels, tents, cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is paid by participants who specifically request single accommodations, subject to availability. If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try to match you with a roommate of the same gender. If you reserve at least 90 days ahead and a roommate is not available, you will only be charged a “forced” single supplement in the amount of 50% of the standard single supplement (unless otherwise noted in the detailed itinerary). Single accommodations are limited so you are encouraged to reserve early!

Internal Airfare

$375 from Guayaquil; $425 from Quito (may be subject to change)

View Internal Airfare Description

Quito or Guayaquil - Galapagos - Quito or Guayaquil

Galapagos Park Fees & Transit Card

$110 per person; $60 for children under 12

View Additional Fees Description


What's Included

  • Bilingual naturalist guide
  • Accommodations on a Deluxe yacht
  • Two pre-cruise nights, and one post-cruise night in a first-class hotel
  • All activities as noted in the itinerary
  • All meals on cruise, breakfasts on the mainland
  • International and domestic airport transfers

Please complete the following information to request a reservation. A trip deposit of $500 per person is required to confirm your reservation (payable by check or major credit card). Once we receive your request we will contact you within one business day to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have.

Reserve A Trip
Total People in Party:
Trip Name:*
Departure Date:*
Title:
First Name:*
Last Name:*
Date of Birth:*
Address 1:*
Address 2:
City:*
State/Province:*
Zip/Postal Code:*
Country:
E-mail Address:
Day Phone:*
Evening Phone:*

*Required. Your e-mail address will not be distributed to other organizations, and you may opt-out at any time.

Name and Address of one additional person in your party, if applicable

Title:
First Name:
Last Name:
Date of Birth:
Address 1:
Address 2:
City:
State/Province:
Zip/Postal Code:
Country:
E-mail Address:
Day Phone:
Evening Phone:

Accomodations Type & Traveler Information

Double: One bed Two beds
Roommate's name:
(if not listed above)
Single: I prefer single accomodations
(single supplement required/space-available basis)*
Shared: Please assist me in finding a roommate*

*please click General Information for further information
about our single supplement policy.

I give permission to Boundless Journeys to give my name and phone number to a potential roommate.

Do you have any dietary restrictions or allergies we should be aware of? Yes No
Comments:
Would you like to celebrate a special occasion on this trip? Yes No
Comments:
Please describe your outdoor experience and regular physical activities:
Please describe your health (including prescription medications), physical condition, or limitations:
How did you hear about Boundless Journeys?

Picture Yourself Here:

Active 8-day Galapagos Islands cruise aboard a deluxe yacht

Breathtaking nature walks, snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming

Fascinating Galapagos wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, playful sea lions, giant tortoises, and land iguanas

Swimming with sea lions and snorkeling with penguins

Upcoming Trips:

Available most weeks throughout the year. If cruising on the Eclipse or the Nina, arrive mainland Ecuador on a Thursday, depart on a Sunday. If cruising on the Eric, Flamingo or Letty, arrive mainland Ecuador on a Friday, depart on a Monday.

You may also be interested in:

Prefer a private departure?

Chartering a yacht in the Galapagos Islands can prove to be more cost effective than making individual reservations and can be the experience of a lifetime. A charter is ideal for friends and family members wanting to focus on creating a truly wonderful and intimate shared adventure.

When requesting a charter, we ask our guests to book well in advance due to the rising popularity of the Galapagos Islands. A charter equals an even more tailored, flexible and one of a kind voyage to suit your itinerary, activities and style. Special requests for activities, food, beverages, liquors, etc. can all be accommodated.  Let us help you take the private trip of a lifetime.

Extension Options:

Announcements:

Current Specials:
Cruise the Eric, Flamingo, or Letty August 29 - September 5, September 5-12, Septmeber 12-19, September 19-26, or September 26 - October 3 and receive a 10% discount.

Cruise the Eric, Flamingo, or Letty or October 17-24, October 24-31, October 31-November 7, November 7-14, November 14-21, November 21-28 (family departure), November 28 - December 5, December 5-12, or December 12-19 and receive a 15% discount.

Eclipse Photos Safari with special guest photographer Jonathan R. Green, November 20 – 27, 2010. Spaces are limited! Regular rates. No added costs, only added value!
Enjoy the Galapagos Islands with award-winning photographer and Royal Geographical Society of London fellow Jonathan R. Green. As a professional photographer, Jonathan has been published in Time Magazine, BBC Wildlife Magazine, The Royal Geographic Magazine amongst others, and has also exhibited at the Natural History Museum and the Olympia Exhibition Center of London as well as other venues around the world. This photo safari is geared to any level of photographer, even if you are a beginner with a point-and-shoot camera!

Jonathan’s workshops take place in a hands-on environment during excursions along with additional, detailed follow-ups and interactive presentations on board. And because you will be in the world’s 2nd largest marine reserve, Jonathan will also have a special workshop on underwater point-and-shoot photography, and for this we give you a 27-shot underwater disposable camera, compliments of the Eclipse.

**QUICK TRIGGER PHOTO SAFARI SPECIALS**
The first 16 to reserve will get a 2GB USB with SD Card, perfect for quickly passing photography from card to computer – no wires or cables needed! Reservations made by June 30th will get an additional $500 USD discount!

NEW designated departure for SOLO TRAVELERS on the Eric, Flamingo and Letty
The Eric, Flamingo and Letty is offering a designated departure catering to SOLO Travelers for the first time the week of February 13-20 2011. This trip will appeal to a niche market that prefers to travel with other single travelers. We are offering 3 singles, 2 triples and share requests on both dolphin and iguana decks. 5% discount on all cabins.

A city tour in Quito or Guayaquil, or a day trip to Otavalo Market from Quito, can be arranged for before or after your trip to the Galapagos Islands. Cost: $220 per person; $350 for individual travelers (includes lunch). Please inquire at time of reservation.

What others have said...

We saw indescribable beauty every day, came home with an understanding of the islands from the conservation and preservation aspect, and with a love for the wildlife native to the islands. We will cherish and discuss with friends and family this remarkable trip for a lifetime.

- Marilyn Zobrist, Ecuador: The Galapagos Islands



 

Latest Blog Posts About Ecuador

Walking tours and the finest foods

Traveling to a foreign country, you’ll quickly spot the differences, the subtleties and the intricacies of a new culture. On a walking tour it’s even more marked, as you get to engage on a personal level with your surroundings. Food is an integral part of a country’s culture, however it’s not always the first thing you [...]

Easier Access to Galapagos Cruises

Aerogal direct flights to the Galapagos Islands Getting to Ecuador Just Got Easier Now it is easier to get to Ecuador than ever before. Aerogal airlines just introduced nonstop daily flights to Ecuador from NY’s JFK airport. The 24-year-old carrier’s new route extends its range from domestic flights, plus nonstop links with Miami and Bogotá, with its [...]

Galapagos Islands Cruises and Yacht Charters

Charter a Boat in the Galapagos Islands with Boundless Journeys, and Save Big. For as little as $2500 per person, you can charter a private boat in the Galapagos Islands. Invite your friends and family along as you discover this enchanting archipelago in a highly personal way. With two experienced naturalist guides, and up to 20 [...]

The Natural Wonders of the World

New7Wonders, a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving the world’s citizens a voice in choosing the most stunning places on earth, is at it again. In 2007 they organized a global voting platform project to have people from all ends of the world vote on The New Natural Wonders of the World; organic, historical, and architectural [...]

Top 10 Galapagos Cruise Questions

Cruising newcomers usually have more excuses as to why they’ve never sailed than there are ships at sea. If your idea of sailing is the Titanic, or perhaps the Love Boat, let me introduce you to Expedition Cruising in the Galapagos Islands. 1. Is cruising expensive? Remember that your cruise fare includes your accommodations, all meals, at [...]

Read More from the Boundless Journeys Blog »


Boundless Journeys Facebook Boundless Journeys Twitter

Testimonials

"This trip was the perfect blend of fascinating history, stunning scenery, exhilarating hiking, contemporary Spanish and Basque culture, and delicious meals with excellent Rioja wines." - Katharine Svenson, Spain: Vintage Rioja




  
*Required