Epic Galápagos Escape Small Ship Cruise

Arrive in Ecuador and begin your journey with an overnight stay in either Quito—Ecuador’s capital high in the Andes—or the coastal city of Guayaquil. An included transfer will bring you to your hotel upon arrival. Both cities are well served by international carriers, and flights to and from the Galápagos operate via Quito with a stop in Guayaquil.

In Guayaquil, guests stay at the elegant Hotel del Parque, and in Quito, guests may choose from several hotel options, including a convenient airport hotel. Please note that Quito sits at an elevation of 9,350 feet and is offered as an alternative to Guayaquil at no additional cost. Quito is especially recommended for those wishing to extend their stay with extra hotel nights or pre-voyage city tours.

Arrival Time: Anytime.
Arrival City: Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador

In the morning, guests taking the recommended flight to the Galápagos will receive airport transfers and luggage assistance. Upon arrival in Baltra, you will be met and escorted to the ship for embarkation.

This extended exploration offers the rare opportunity to visit all of the remarkable islands listed below. All ship itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations.

Please note that Day 7 will mark a transition, as some guests conclude their voyage while others embark to begin their adventure. Some staff may also rotate, bringing fresh energy and expertise for the journey ahead. During this turnaround, you’ll explore a new site on shore with a naturalist.

North Seymour: Stroll along a scenic coastal trail in search of nesting frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, as well as land and marine iguanas and other wildlife.

Rabida: Step ashore on striking red-sand beaches and snorkel in the shallows alongside Galápagos sea lions and vibrant tropical fish. Later, enjoy a nature or photo walk to spot hawks, other terrestrial birds, and—at times—flamingos in a small saltwater lagoon.

Santa Cruz: Visit Puerto Ayora, the archipelago’s largest town and the headquarters of both the Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. Venture into the lush highlands to encounter giant tortoises roaming in the wild and learn about the lives of the island’s early settlers. Explore the island’s north coast, where forests of towering prickly pear cacti shelter large land iguanas, and enjoy a Zodiac cruise through mangrove ecosystems in search of turtles, rays and sharks.

Isabela: Raise a toast as you cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, the northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Watch for whales, dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish along the way. Over two days, explore these dramatically eroded volcanic shores in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, encountering abundant wildlife and remarkable geology. Zodiac cruise along the coast in search of Galápagos penguins and fur seals, and snorkel among green sea turtles and shimmering schools of endemic fish.

Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most untamed island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins and the largest marine iguana colonies in the archipelago. Hike across recent black lava flows alongside scampering Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions playing in tidepools.

San Cristóbal: Hike to the plateau of Punta Pitt for spectacular views and fascinating geology. This is the only site in the Galápagos where all three booby species nest together. Later, swim off the beach alongside playful young sea lions.

Kayak past the striking tuff-stone cliffs of Cerro Brujo or stroll its white-sand beach in search of red-footed boobies, endemic mockingbirds, and lava lizards. Cap the day with a sunset cruise around the dramatic spires of iconic Kicker Rock.

Española: Located in the far southeastern reaches of the archipelago, Española is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, including red and black marine iguanas, swallow-tailed gulls, Nazca boobies and endemic mockingbirds and lava lizards. Seasonally, Punta Suárez also hosts the world’s only breeding population of waved albatrosses. Snorkel and kayak alongside playful sea lions and colorful fish at Gardner Bay, then set out on an afternoon walk at Punta Suárez to encounter more of the island’s remarkable species.

Floreana: Follow a trail past a pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous wooden barrel at Post Office Bay and learn about its unusual postal system.

Santiago: Begin the day with a nature or photo walk along a black volcanic beach, or head out early by kayak. Later, explore spectacular Buccaneer Cove by Zodiac and paddle its dramatic coastline. Snorkel among dense schools of reef fish sheltering in the rugged shoreline. In the afternoon, hike at Puerto Egas through a striking landscape of ash and lava flows, tidal pools, and sea caves—home to sea lions and fur seals, land and marine iguanas, shore birds, and vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Bartolomé: Hike to the summit of a 300-foot volcanic cone for sweeping panoramic views. Later, snorkel or join a glass-bottom boat excursion around the base of iconic Pinnacle Rock, where you may spot sea lions, small reef sharks, and even Galápagos penguins.

Disembark this morning and fly back to the mainland, where you’ll transfer to Hotel del Parque in Guayaquil for an overnight stay. Guests returning via Quito may choose from several hotel options. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at your leisure, with the opportunity to connect with overnight flights home. For those wishing to continue the journey, ask your expedition specialist about a culturally rich post-voyage extension to Quito and Otavalo, a renowned market town.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home, unless you’ve arranged additional hotel nights or a post-voyage extension.

Departure Time: Anytime on day 13, or after 7:00 p.m. local time on day 12.
Departure City: Guayaquil or Quito, Ecuador

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Vessel Type: Small Ship

Passenger Capacity: 48

National Geographic Gemini is the newest addition to the Lindblad Expeditions Galápagos fleet, designed to offer an immersive and authentic small-ship experience. Built with a shallow draught and exceptional manoeuvrability, she is purpose-designed for navigating the remote shores and vibrant marine life of the Galápagos Islands. With space for only 48 guests in 28 well-appointed cabins—including balcony suites, doubles, triples, and solo options—Gemini blends intimacy with comfort, and benefits from decades of Lindblad’s deep connections with local conservationists and communities.

Life on board Gemini is designed to maximise exploration and engagement. She carries a full complement of adventure gear, including fast-deploying Mark VI Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, a glass-bottom boat, and snorkelling equipment with shortie wetsuits. Guests can unwind on the Upper Deck with a hot tub and a windowed fitness centre and spa, or enjoy dining in the outdoor café or Marina Deck restaurant, both featuring open seating. Presentations and Recaps take place in the panoramic lounge, which also houses a bar, reception area, and well-stocked library—providing the perfect setting to reflect on each day’s discoveries.

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition

Length: 49 metres

Passenger Capacity: 48 guests (in 26 cabins)

Sleek, elegant, and purpose-built for exploration, National Geographic Islander II redefines expedition travel in the Galápagos Islands. With space for just 48 guests in 26 beautifully appointed cabins and suites, this refined vessel offers the atmosphere of a private yacht paired with the immersive spirit of an expedition. A 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures personalised service, while amenities such as teak decks, a climate-controlled marina, a dedicated Science Hub, and expansive observation areas provide comfort and connection to the surroundings at every turn.

Sailing year-round in the Galápagos, Islander II features a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, and a glass-bottom boat, alongside full snorkelling gear and scientific equipment including a video microscope. Ecuadorian staff, regionally inspired cuisine, and artisan spa elements ensure an authentic and culturally rich onboard experience. Public spaces like The Cove lounge, the Global Gallery, a plunge pool, and indoor-outdoor dining areas further enhance life at sea. Whether relaxing on the teak viewing deck or learning from naturalists during Recap, guests are immersed in the unique landscapes, wildlife, and culture of Ecuador’s enchanted isles.