Galapagos Islands 5-day Luxury Cruise

This 5-day cruise in the Galapagos promises a captivating journey through stunning landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and an upscale experience. We will navigate the key islands of this unique archipelago aboard an all-inclusive vessel, concluding our adventure on San Cristobal Island.

5-Day Luxury Cruise in the Galapagos Islands

Day 1: Arrival at Baltra Island and Santa Cruz Island

Your journey begins at 9 am when we meet at Baltra airport. Following a brief bus ride to the Santa Cruz Island port, we will embark on our cruise ship, setting the stage for our exploration of the Galapagos National Park.

The first day will involve a visit to the El Chato Reserve, nestled in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Here, the renowned Galapagos giant tortoises roam freely, showcasing their natural surroundings. Fascinatingly, these creatures can live for over 300 years and weigh up to 881 lbs (400 kg).

We will retire to the ship for dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures before resting for the following day.

Day 2: Exploring Santa Cruz Island - Santiago Island - San Bartolomé Island

After breakfast onboard, we will depart from Santa Cruz to Santiago Island, also referred to as James Island. Our first stop will be Sullivan Bay, where we will observe the impressive solidified lava formations lining the coast. In this area, we will learn about the historical volcanic activity spanning the last two centuries.

Post-lunch, we will venture towards Bartolome Island. Despite its limited vegetation, this area captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, craters resembling lunar landscapes, and a distinctive rocky formation that symbolizes the national park. Here, we will also find a small group of Galapagos penguins!

After a rewarding day, we will return to the ship for dinner.

Day 3: Discover North Seymour Island and South Plaza Island

On the third day, we will visit North Seymour Island, located near Baltra. This island boasts a unique geological formation, lacking the mountains and volcanic cones characteristic of the others.

While exploring North Seymour, we will observe a variety of bird species nesting in the area, potentially spotting frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and swallow-tailed gulls.

Following our walk, we will return to the ship for lunch, then head to the South Plaza islet in the afternoon. The cacti and the reddish rock formations create a striking, almost prehistoric ambiance. We'll encounter the local iguanas and have the opportunity to swim in a reef home to manta rays, sea turtles, and sea lions.

After a delightful day, we will enjoy dinner and a serene evening aboard.

Day 4: Journey to San Cristobal Island

On the fourth day, our journey will take us to the north coast of San Cristobal Island. In the morning, we will marvel at the rugged ravines of Pitt Point, the same location that Charles Darwin first encountered when he arrived in the Galapagos in 1835. We'll disembark on the historic beach and embark on a hike to the cliffs overlooking the island.

Before we return to the ship, you’ll have the chance to snorkel and explore the underwater wonders of the island, with the possibility of encountering curious sea lions.

In the afternoon, we will visit the Cerro Brujo de San Cristobal. The surrounding beach of this ancient volcanic formation allows for another snorkeling adventure, where we may come across manta rays, sharks, and moray eels. Furthermore, behind the sandy dunes, you’ll find saltwater ponds, serving as a sanctuary for iguanas.

As the day winds down, we’ll return to the ship for another evening of relaxation.

Day 5: Departure from San Cristobal Island

To conclude this extraordinary 5-day cruise, we will head to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Our first stop will be the national park visitor center, where informative displays and audiovisual presentations will deepen our understanding of the volcanic history of the islands and their unique climatic features.

Finally, we will ensure you reach the San Cristobal airport in time for your departure flight.

Accommodation

Your stay during this 5-day excursion includes lodging aboard the Treasure luxury ship with full board. Choices for accommodation range from a standard double room to a double suite or a triple suite.

Flights

To participate in this cruise, please arrange roundtrip flights as outlined below:

For travelers from Quito

• Outbound flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 8:04 am from Quito. Arrival at 10:48 am in Baltra.
• Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1631. Departure at 1:05 pm from San Cristobal. Arrival at 5:43 pm in Quito.

For travelers from Guayaquil

• Outbound flight: AVIANCA - AV1632. Departure at 9:53 am from Guayaquil. Arrival at 10:48 am in Baltra.
• Return flight: AVIANCA - AV1631. Departure at 1:05 pm from San Cristobal. Arrival at 3:53 pm in Guayaquil.