- Overview
- Itineraries
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- Booking
- Rates
Welcome aboard the Galapagos Explorer
Isolated 900 km (559 mi) west of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands is a showcase of biodiversity and unique wildlife species that inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution.
Designed to exclusively explore the diverse islands that make up this remarkable region, uncovering breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary wildlife, our 38-m (124-ft) luxury expedition yacht, the Galapagos Explorer, sets a new benchmark in Galapagos exploration. Accommodating just 12 guests, the Galapagos Explorer boasts an unparalleled guest-to-staff ratio, making it the most exclusive yacht in the region. From tailored dining experiences to curated water and land excursions, our dedicated team continuously goes beyond the expected, offering a level of personalised service and attention to detail like no other.
With expert interpretation from specially trained and dedicated guides, there are two 7-night set departure itineraries available exploring either the east or west islands of the archipelago. From up-close encounters with iconic species such as the giant Galapagos tortoise and blue-footed boobies to snorkelling in pristine waters teeming with endemic marine life, every voyage is a thrilling adventure of exploration and discovery.
On board the Galapagos Explorer, natural materials and rich textures celebrating local culture harmonise to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden accents and neutral colours seen throughout. Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows fill the spacious guest areas with natural light, providing breathtaking views of the ever-changing landscapes and wildlife wonders of the Galapagos. Indoor and outdoor dining and lounge areas ensure guests are spoilt for choice. While the yacht’s al fresco sundeck located on the uppermost deck boasts a decadent hot tub and comfortable lounge area ideal for whiling away the afternoon. Meticulously appointed air conditioned accommodation includes four beautiful cabins and two exquisite suites, featuring either portholes or windows. Ensuite bathrooms with luxurious showers and vanities complete the space.
Yacht deck plans
The Galapagos Explorer comprises 4 Decks. The lower deck (Deck 1) consists of two Luxury Cabins and one Superior Suite. The middle deck (Deck 2) features two Luxury View Cabins, an indoor guest dining and lounge area as well as an outdoor, shaded lounge area. The yacht’s upper deck (Deck 3) includes the Deluxe View Suite plus a spacious al fresco deck, bar and guest dining area. To round off the experience, the yacht’s uppermost deck (Deck 4) boasts a sundeck with a hot tub and comfortable sun loungers that overlook panoramic vistas.
Yacht overview
| Maximum number of guests | 13 |
| Number of rooms | 6 |
| Room types | Cabins and Suites |
| Family accommodation | Children 12 years and older |
| 1 Triple option per cruise | |
| Check-in and check-out times | 14h00 / 11h00, with early check-in and late |
| check-out on request | |
| Chartering (For exclusive use) | Available on request |
| Yacht closure | Closed during September - alternating |
| between 2 or 4 weeks, starting with 2 weeks in | |
| September 2025 | |
| Internet access | Yes |
| Credit cards | Yes |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Best of the Galapagos East
NORTH SEYMOUR, SAN CRISTÓBAL, ESPAÑOLA, FLOREANA, SANTA CRUZ, BARTOLOMÉ, GENOVESA, DAPHNE MAJOR
Best of the Galapagos West
SANTA CRUZ, SANTIAGO, FERNANDINA, ISABELA, SANTA FE, SOUTH PLAZA, MOSQUERA
Itineraries
Day 1: Arrival
North Seymour
AFTERNOON: Upon arrival at Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Galapagos Explorer.
Begin your adventure traversing North Seymour on foot. The flat, sandy trail along the coast offers wonderful wildlife and bird viewing opportunities. This is the only island with two species of frigatebirds and the best place to watch the male’s bizarre mating display. While walking around, keep an eye on the colourful land iguanas, lava lizards, and marine iguanas that are known to walk between your legs.
Day 2
San Cristóbal
MORNING: Pitt Point: An uneven, uphill hike leads you to a cluster of eroded volcanoes sparsely populated by unique vegetation. On your walk, look out for the San Cristóbal mockingbird and lava lizard, both endemic to this area. Pitt Point is also the only breeding site for all three booby species – the blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca booby. Those who prefer not to hike can enjoy incredible birdwatching aboard a panga boat. Weather permitting, there is also the opportunity to swim and snorkel with various tropical fish and sea lion.
AFTERNOON: Kicker Rock: This iconic rock rises 152 m (500 ft) from the ocean, formed from the remnants of a vertical tuff cone eroded by the sea. Sailing around the natural monument showcases the islet’s dramatic cliffs and low bushes which make for ideal nesting sites for frigatebirds, Nazca boobies and tropicbirds. A picture-perfect moment you’ll remember for years to come.
Lobos Island: A small flat islet located 10 km (6.2 mi) northeast of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a panga boat ride along the coastline offers ample opportunity to observe nesting blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, pelicans and large colonies of sea lion. Weather permitting, it’s also possible to swim and snorkel with the curious sea lions. An experience not easily forgotten; sea lions are often spotted during the summer months (from December to May) when they take to the water to escape the heat. While these playful creatures may swim very close, it’s best not to try to touch them.
Day 3
Española
MORNING: Gardner Bay: Bask in the sunshine on pristine sandy white beaches observing large bird colonies, sea lion and Española lava lizards or discover the vibrant underwater world swimming with sea turtles, pufferfish, and Galapagos grunts. This is one of the rare beaches in the Galapagos where guests do not need to be accompanied by a guide at all times.
Gardner Bay also offers exceptional kayaking, where, weather permitting, you can spot sea birds soaring amidst the cliffs and sea turtles swimming on the ocean’s surface.
AFTERNOON: Suarez Point: This rocky land offers one of the most beautiful walks in the Galapagos, with plenty of close-up opportunities to encounter the island’s diverse wildlife. Cross paths with marine iguanas, sea lions and swallow-tailed gulls and carefully walk through the albatrosses’ nesting colonies. Española is the sole breeding site for the entire world population of waved albatross, numbering around 12,000 pairs. This species has attained a critical endangered status, prompting ongoing vigilance through regular population monitoring.
Weather permitting, keep an eye out for the large blowhole which is known to spray 15 – 23 m (50 – 75 ft) of ocean water into the air depending on the surf intensity.
Day 4
Floreana
MORNING: Cormorant Point: Located between two volcanic giants lies one of the largest lagoons in the Galapagos, a haven for the American flamingo. With only 350 known pairs left in the Galapagos, this is the one of the best places to see these vibrant creatures, also known as the pinkest flamingo on earth. In addition, the island hosts a high percentage of endemic plant species. Its two distinct beaches, the Green Beach (due to the olivine crystals in the sand) and Flour Sand Beach (which is made up of fine sandy white coral), make for an interesting sight as well. Flour Sand Beach is also a known breeding site for green sea turtles (from December to May). Other inhabitants to look for are Floreana lava lizards, finches and flycatchers.
Champion Island: Here lives one of the most endangered species in the Galapagos, the Floreana mockingbird which can only be seen on a panga boat ride. This is also one of the most beautiful snorkelling sites in the islands, with crystal-clear water visibility boasting large schools of Salemas, king angelfish, yellow tailed surgeonfish, Galapagos grunts, whitetip sharks, eagle rays and stingrays.
AFTERNOON: Post Office Bay: In the 18th century, whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island to use as an unofficial mailbox by mariners. Known as Post Office Bay today, the tradition continues as travellers leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home. Once you have delivered your post card, enjoy a stroll along the pristine shoreline before taking a dip in the ocean. This is also a fantastic area to kayak owing to the sheltered bay and large number of wildlife that can be seen along the coastline.
Day 5
Santa Cruz
MORNING: The Highlands: After a 30-minute bus ride, you’ll arrive at El Chato, a private ecological reserve, to see giant tortoises roaming freely. Next, stroll through the Highland’s lush forests, where numerous bird species, including various finch varieties, can be spotted. If there’s enough time, you’ll explore ‘Los Gemelos’ (Twin Craters), two collapsed calderas surrounded by a distinctive scalesia forest – a highlight of the highlands.
AFTERNOON: Charles Darwin Research Station: See conservation in action at the research station, an active breeding site for giant tortoises. It’s thanks to these noble efforts that this species has escaped extinction. Strolling through the park not only showcases the various tortoises, including the saddleback tortoise, but also the land iguanas that are bred and nurtured at the centre. After this, use your free time to explore the town, experiencing the local culture firsthand. This is also the perfect opportunity to relax on board the Galapagos Explorer, enjoying the hot tub and al fresco sundeck.
Day 6
Santa Cruz | Bartolomé
MORNING: Dragon Hill: This rocky, low-lying hill, aptly named after the iguanas, is home to an impressive population of Galapagos land iguana. These miniature dragons roam around the sun-scorched, boulder-strewn island, enjoying the fruits and flowers of their favourite food, the prickly pear. A walking trail guides you through the beautiful endemic vegetation, including palo santo tree, letter leaf tree and Galapagos cotton. Along the way, keep an eye out for finches, yellow warblers and flycatchers.
AFTERNOON: Pinnacle Rock: Exactly 375 steps lead you to the summit of an extinct volcano, boasting some of the best views in the Galapagos. Definitely worth all the hard work! Afterwards, take a panga boat ride along the coast in search of the Galapagos penguin, which exclusively breeds on this island. Pinnacle Rock beach is also ideal for snorkelling where you can swim with parrotfish, Sergeant majors, starfish, stingrays, whitetip sharks and, if you’re lucky, even the Galapagos penguin.
Day 7
Genovesa
Today you will explore the only northern island of the archipelago open to guests – also one of the most beautiful islands in the Galapagos.
MORNING: Darwin Bay: The 14 km2 island of Genovesa is the tip of a submerged shield volcano that rises 76 m (249 ft) above sea level. Its central crater is filled with salt water while ocean erosion over time created the Darwin Bay on its southern slope. Here you’ll find 70,000 pairs of nesting red-footed boobies – the largest colony on earth. Along the walking trail, look out for swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gull species in the world, and be careful not to step on their eggs. Other notable fauna and flora include sea lions, the yellow-crowned night heron, and the lava morning glory plant. Darwin Bay is also the only place to catch a glimpse of the sharp-beaked ground finch.
Weather permitting, this is also an excellent spot to explore the ocean. Dive below the surface to see schools of tropical fish, fur seals or hammerhead sharks; kayak along the cliffs to watch birds nesting or ride along glassy waters in a panga boat to observe lava herons, brown pelicans and red-billed tropicbirds.
AFTERNOON: Prince Philip’s Steps: While Genovesa doesn’t have too many land animals, it’s a paradise for sea birds. A steep but short climb leads you onto a flat, dried lava field where you can spot colonies of red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, great frigatebirds and wedge-rumped storm petrels that nest under the rocks. This is also your best chance to spot the shy, short-eared owl – a truly wonderful sighting.
Day 8: Departure
Daphne Major
MORNING: Today is your last day exploring the Galapagos Islands. Your final sail takes you around Daphne Major, an extinct volcanic tuff cone. Nazca boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, and blue-footed boobies can be found nesting here. Daphne Major is also the primary site of Peter and Rosemary Grant’s iconic 40-year study of evolution in Darwin’s finches that demonstrates evolution occurring over short periods of time. Nearly all of the finches on the island are banded for observation.
Thereafter, it is time to wave a fond farewell to the Galapagos Explorer as you head to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island for your flight onward.
Day 1: Arrival
Santa Cruz
AFTERNOON: Upon arrival at Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Galapagos Explorer.
Black Turtle Cove: Only accessible by panga boat, Black Turtle Cove is a mangrove estuary featuring three different mangrove species: black, red and brown. Pristine and naturally secluded, the cove is a haven for rare fauna and flora and has been declared a turtle sanctuary. Here you’ll encounter brown pelican, brown noddies, herons as well as blacktip sharks and stingrays that often use the sheltered cove as a birthing place. Pangas are required to turn off their motors while visiting the cove, allowing you to truly become immersed in the sights and sounds of your natural surrounds.
Day 2
Santiago | Rabida
MORNING: Chinese Hat: This island features a gently sloping volcanic cone that emerges from the ocean, resembling the distinctive shape of an old-fashioned Chinese hat. In the west you can see lava formations topped with coral heads, which are an indicator that the flows were once formed under the sea. A visit to this island provides an excellent opportunity for the interpretation of geologic features such as lava tubes and lava flows. Look out for large colonies of bright-red Sally Lightfoot crab, marine iguanas, lava lizards and sea lions. The lava cactus growing in between the lava cracks is also an incredible sight.
Sombrero Chino is also known as an excellent snorkelling spot. Protected by the larger Santiago Island, the island’s surrounding waters are calm yet still deep enough to attract some spectacular marine life like parrotfish, king angelfish, stingrays, hogfish and whitetip reef sharks. Very lucky snorkellers may also see the rare Galapagos penguin. Kayaking along the sheltered coastline also provides wonderful sightings of the unique lava flows and wildlife that resides here.
AFTERNOON: Rabida Island: Also known by the name of ‘Jervis’ in honour of a British Admiral John Jervis, Earl of St. Vincent, Rabida Island is one of the most colourful and volcanically varied islands in the archipelago and a great snorkelling site. Its famous red sandy beach (the only one in the Galapagos) and stunning lookouts provide unmatched photographic opportunities. The island is also a birdwatcher’s delight where some of the region’s rarest species are in abundance, including nine varieties of finches, pintail ducks, the large-billed flycatcher, the Galapagos hawk and the brown pelican. You may also be lucky to see the American flamingo, the world’s pinkest flamingo. Snorkelling provides close encounters with sea lions, garden eels, whitetip sharks and eagle rays.
Day 3
Santiago
MORNING: James Bay: Home to several species of shore, land and sea birds, today you’ll walk along the coastline in search of American oystercatchers, lava herons, great blue herons as well as bright-red Sally Lightfoot crabs. Towards the end of the walk, you’ll find a beautiful, eroded lava tunnel offering one of the only chances to see the Galapagos fur seal. Weather permitting, this is also a great snorkelling site with juvenile blacktip sharks, stingrays and scorpionfish.
AFTERNOON: Espumilla Beach: Enjoy a secluded cove with pristine white sand, ideal for leisurely walks, swimming in turquoise waters, and kayaking along a coastline sculpted with dramatic cliffs. Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls this sacred space home.
Buccaneer Cove: Located on the northwest side of Santiago, Buccaneer Cover is named after the first navigators and pirates, and later whalers, that used the island as an anchorage place to beach their boats while they went looking for food and water. Today, the cove is home to a variety of marine birds and sea lions. The cove is no longer a landing site, but a panga boat ride can be rewarding, with views of pelicans, herons, swallow-tailed gulls, and boobies. Look for two unusual rock formations that have eroded to look like ‘the monk’ and ‘the elephant’.
This is where naturalist Charles Darwin spent majority of his time in the Galapagos.
Day 4
Fernandina
Fernandina is one of the youngest island in the archipelago, with more visible lava fields than anywhere else in the Galapagos. Situated across the iconic Bolivar Channel from Isabela Island, lucky explorers may be able to spot whale sharks and sunfish en route.
MORNING: Espinosa Point: This is one of the most untouched islands in the Galapagos. No foreign species have ever invaded Fernandina and the unique landscape was created by lava fields of the volcano La Cumbre. Marine iguanas conglomerate in larger groups than in any other island. They bask around in the sand, swim near the shore and sometimes block the pathways. Among the unique species found here, is the flightless cormorant. A bird that due to the lack of predators had to adjust their way of survival and perfect their skills of finding food in the ocean. Their wings, tails and feet progressively adapted for swimming. To see these birds, is to witness evolution happening right in front of you. Other impressive fauna to look out for include Galapagos hawks, Fernandina snakes, sea lions and lava lizards, making for an exciting experience while walking around the island.
This is also one of the only chances to see marine iguana underwater as they only swim in specific areas at specific times. It’s also a great place to swim with green sea turtles and nocturnal Port Jackson sharks as well as the colourful harlequin tuskfish that only live in the western islands of the archipelago.
AFTERNOON: Tagus Cove: A short walking trail takes you to the top of the cliff from where you can view Darwin Lake, an uplifted ultra-saline lake saltier than the sea. You can also see several volcanoes from here. Look carefully at the graffiti on the surrounding cliffs of the cove, it has been written by pirates, whalers, and buccaneers in past centuries.
Tagus Cove is the remains of a tuff cone that created a secluded bay with calm waters ideal for panga boat rides and kayaking (weather permitting). Enjoy close encounters with the Galapagos penguin and other iconic sea birds, like the flightless cormorant, Galapagos martin, brown noddy, brown pelican and blue-footed booby. Weather permitting, snorkelling is also a fantastic way to spot sea turtles, ray-finned fish, stingrays and with a little luck, seahorses.
Day 5
Isabela
MORNING: Elizabeth Bay: Few have the privilege of exploring this secluded bay, teeming with abundant marine life. Cruise by panga boat into the sheltered mangrove lagoon, where the tallest red mangroves in the Galapagos tower overhead. Silence descends as the engines purr to a stop, allowing the bay’s symphony to come alive. Spot graceful sea turtles as they surface for a breath before diving back into the depths. Peek between the gnarled mangrove roots and catch a glimpse of nesting penguins. Stingrays and golden rays glide effortlessly beside your panga boat, while flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and petrels flit amongst the canopies.
AFTERNOON: Moreno Point: Located on the north coast of the island, this area, although at times rather cold, is ideal for snorkelling boasting schools of chubs creole fish, harlequin tuskfish, penguins and sea turtles. The main attraction of this are the coastal lagoons in the middle of black lava flows where several unique bird species can be found. Walk in the lava flows of Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, some of the Galapagos’ most active volcanoes, and between the islands’ three cacti species (lava, candelabra and prickly pear). A panga boat ride offers opportunities to see large marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins and flightless cormorants.
Day 6
Santa Cruz
MORNING: The Highlands: After a 30-minute bus ride, you’ll arrive at El Chato, a private ecological reserve, to see giant tortoises roaming freely. Next, stroll through the Highland’s lush forests, where numerous bird species, including various finch varieties, can be spotted. If there’s enough time, you’ll explore ‘Los Gemelos’ (Twin Craters), two collapsed calderas surrounded by a distinctive scalesia forest – a highlight of the highlands.
AFTERNOON: Charles Darwin Research Station: See conservation in action at the research station, an active breeding site for giant tortoises. It’s thanks to these noble efforts that this species has escaped extinction. Strolling through the park not only showcases the various tortoises, including the saddleback tortoise, but also the land iguanas that are bred and nurtured at the centre. After this, use your free time to explore the town, experiencing the local culture firsthand. This is also the perfect opportunity to relax on board the Galapagos Explorer, enjoying the hot tub and al fresco sundeck.
Day 7
Santa Fe | South Plazas
MORNING: Santa Fe: A short walking trail takes you to a large colony of sea lion, afterwards leading you inland to spot Santa Fe’s endemic land iguana as well as its prickly pear cactus forest which features the largest prickly pear in the Galapagos. With some luck, you may even see the rice rat unique to the island. Santa Fe is also one of the best snorkelling sites in the islands, with sea lion, stingrays, hawk fish, parrotfish and eagle rays. Kayaking is also possible with wonderful sightings of sea lion and shore birds.
AFTERNOON: South Plaza: A unique landscape of steep cliffs filled with red Sesuvium plants and Opuntia cacti makes for some of the most interesting wildlife observations available in Galapagos. Land iguanas are easily seen from the walking trail under the shade of cactuses waiting for a prickly pear to fall. Swallow-tailed gulls and rid-billed tropicbirds, along with various other sea birds, use the rising air to glide effortlessly over the escarpment and the protected rocky seashore is prime habitat for large colonies of noisy sea lion.
Day 8: Departure
Mosquera
MORNING: A small island with white sandy beaches, black lava rocks and turquoise waters, Mosquera Island is the last stop of your Galapagos adventure. Highlights include the island’s vibrant colony of Galapagos sea lion, one of the archipelago’s largest, and the nesting grounds of the lava gull, the rarest gull species on the planet. Other creatures to look out for include Sally Lightfoot crabs, marine iguanas and pelicans.
Thereafter, it is time to wave a fond farewell to the Galapagos Explorer as you head to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island for your flight onward.
- Accommodation
- Three meals daily
- Soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers, teas and coffees, and refreshments on excursions
- All excursions including panga boat rides, hikes, island visits, beach walks, visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, sea kayaking and snorkelling (included snorkelling gear: short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins)
- Guides' Journal with illustrations of fauna and flora to record your sightings
- Area map with illustrated Star Birds checklist
- Emergency medical evacuation insurance
- VIP Lounge at the Galapagos’ airports, road transfers to and from Seymour Airport on
- Baltra Island
- Internet
ACTIVITIES INCLUDED
All excursions including panga tours, hikes, island visits, beach walks, visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, sea kayaking and snorkelling (included snorkelling gear: short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins)
- Administration fee 200$ pp
- Telephone calls
- All items of a personal nature
- Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands
- Gratuities
- Champagne, cognacs, fine wines, premium brand spirits and cigars
- Landing fees
- Travel insurance
- Park fees
- Migratory card 20$ pp
RATES 2025
| RATES | PER PERSON (7-Night Cruise) | PER CHARTER (7-Night Cruise) |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Cabin | USD 10,950 | |
| Luxury View Cabin | USD 11,950 | |
| Superior Suite | USD 14,895 | |
| Deluxe View Suite | USD 16,780 | |
| Private Charter | USD 155,000 |
Rates are in USD and are per adult sharing for a 7-night cruise
Single Supplement:
- Festive season*: 100% single supplement applies
- Rest of year: 80% single supplement applies
Festive Season* Surcharge:
- USD 500 per person
- USD 10 000 per charter
Child Policy:
- Chidren aged 12 yrs and older are welcome (7 yrs and older welcome on Charters)
- Children aged 12 - 16 yrs sharing with one or two adults receive a 20% discount off the adult rate
- Children aged 12 - 16 yrs sharing a cabin: 1st child pays adult rate, 2nd child receives 20% discount
- An additional bed (for a child aged 12 - 16 yrs) may be added to the Superior Suite.
All flights from Ecuador to Galapagos to be booked with Ecuador Wonders.
Galapagos itineraries are subject to change at the discretion of the Galapagos National Park authorities.
Charters with special requirements will attract a surcharge.
The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) is not permitted.
*Festive season: Cruises sailing over 25 Dec and 31 Dec
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