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.

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.

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.

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".

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.

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

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

A 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

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.

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

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

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.

• 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