Galápagos Islands - Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise
Beautiful Quito and volcano adventure Begin your adventure with two nights at a hotel in Quito, one of South America’s most charming capitals. This World Heritage city of graceful Spanish-era architecture is packed with cosy restaurants and small artisanal shops. From here we’ll journey to an active volcano and go on a nature walk in stunning surroundings, stopping to pay a visit to the Cotopaxi Interpretation Centre. Darwin’s islands of evolution The Galápagos Islands are famed for their association with the naturalist Charles Darwin. Our northern itinerary calls at Santiago, the adjacent islands of Rábida and Bartolomé, isolated Genovesa, and the centrally-located Santa Cruz. The landings take in a wide array of ecosystems, picturesque landscapes, and give great opportunities for seeing wildlife such as sea lions, turtles, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, flamingos, Nazca and Red-footed Boobies, and iconic Darwin’s Finches. Your expedition ship – MS Santa Cruz II MS Santa Cruz II’s crafted itineraries give you some of the best island coverage and wildlife viewing opportunities in the Galápagos. Many excursions take place at exclusive visitor sites, meaning we’ll often have entire areas to ourselves. Having multiple naturalist guides aboard Santa Cruz II also means you’ll be able to choose from a wider range of activities each day. Your ship is also one of the few vessels operating in Galápagos that comes equipped with a full range of exploration tools, including dinghies, kayaks, snorkelling gear and paddleboards. There's even a glass-bottom boat. Of course, safety and sustainability are paramount throughout your cruise, and there’s a 24-hour Medical Officer onboard at all times.
Your journey of discovery begins on the equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 ft, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colourful plazas, magnificent churches and handsome monuments. If you have enough time in the evening, make sure to visit the Calle La Ronda, an ancient pedestrianised street with links to the poets and artists who’ve lived here. It’s lined with shops and cafes, and there are many handicrafts available to buy. Pre-Programme Arrive in Quito a few days early and join us on a 4-day tour to Cloudforest Lodge in the Mashpi Reserve. The area is part of the Ecuadorian Choco rainforest, one of the world’s greatest biodiversity hotspots. This optional extension is also available as a Post-Programme.
Today you’ll visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of South America's most active volcanoes. But first, you’ll stop at Cotopaxi Interpretation Centre to learn about the history of its major eruptions as well as the local flora and fauna. Afterwards, we’ll walk to Limpiopungo Lagoon, tucked in a high valley within the Cotopaxi National Park at 12,800 ft above sea level. Spot herds of llamas on the slopes and keep your eyes open for birds such as the Andean Gull, several species of hummingbird and – with luck – the majestic Andean Condor. You’ll enjoy a tasty lunch prepared by some of the region’s best chefs before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.
After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island in the spectacular Galápagos archipelago. A transfer brings you straight to the port where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits. In the afternoon, we’ll land at Las Bachas beach located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. This glorious white beach with turquoise waters is a great first place to spot iconic Galápagos wildlife like flamingos and sea turtles, and it’s named after some sunken barges left after WWII. Enjoy some swimming or snorkelling before heading back to the ship for a welcome cocktail and an expedition briefing about the following day.
Today you’ll explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop.’ In the afternoon, we’ll head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of fur-sea lions and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or you could just swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically, in the company of marine turtles.
Your day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago. You can go for a thrilling dinghy ride along the coast or join an excursion exploring the island’s mesmerising, red-coloured beach. Soak up the sights and sounds made by a colony of sea lions, and spot marine iguanas, mockingbirds, Yellow Warblers and several species of Darwin’s Finches. In the afternoon, we’ll sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. You can swim or snorkel off the beach here or discover colourful marine life from our glass-bottom boat, and spot Galápagos Penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.
Today you’ll explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb – only 90 ft – up a flight of steps to reach a flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and check out large colonies of Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds and Storm Petrels. Afterwards or instead, hop into a kayak for some aquatic adventuring! In the afternoon, we’ll land at the beautiful beach that fringes Darwin Bay for a swim. Following this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds, or alternatively just take it easy on the beach, swimming, snorkelling or kayaking.
We start our last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. After breakfast, your luggage will be taken to the airport while you visit the Tortoise Reserve. A dry landing at a passenger’s wharf and a bus ride to the loftier region of the island will provide the last highlight of the cruise: giant tortoises in the wild. The windward slopes of the island are home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands include dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids and bromeliads, and several endemic land birds. After this visit we’ll transfer directly to Baltra Airport. Farewell to Galápagos. Post-Programmes Explore more of Ecuador with one of our optional Post-Programmes. Join us as we travel to Napo River, in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Fly to Coca and spend three nights in a lodge surrounded by the beautiful rainforest and observe and learn about the flora and fauna on selected activities. Or instead, travel from Quito to the Mashpi Reserve, a unique habitat and ecosystem. Here you’ll enjoy a 3-night stay in luxurious Cloudforest Lodge and discover this breathtaking area (also available as a Pre-Programme). Both post-programmes have two nights in Quito included.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Darwin Suite
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Darwin Suite
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Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Darwin Suite
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Darwin Suite
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Explorer cabin
Vessel Type: Expedition Vessel
Length: 71.8 meters
Passenger Capacity: 90
Built / Refurbished: 2002 / 2015 / 2018 / 2021
When you are exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home on board.
Gastronomic delights
Mouthwatering meals and creative cocktails await you aboard MS Santa Cruz II. With creativity and dedication, our cheerful staff draw inspiration from everything from the weather to the region’s flavours and local ingredients.
Beagle Restaurant - Incredible Dining Experience
The MS Santa Cruz II has a team of trained staff members that utilize locally-sourced organic food to prepare every dish. This ship provides a Le Cordon Bleu (a trained Gastronomy Director) and a wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences. Each and every meal served onboard is exquisite.
Panorama bar & lounge
This large and well-lit area is not only the main bar, but also the place where most ship events will take place (welcome and farewell cocktail), and doubles as an ideal place for lectures. It’s the ideal site to chill and relax with Wi-Fi hot spot and direct access to our al fresco terrace.
Luxury living
Your ship gives you everything you could wish for in a home away from home: places for stimulation, relaxation, and meetings with your fellow guests. With a Scandinavian-inspired décor and all modern conveniences, MS Santa Cruz II does it in comfort and style.
Expedition lounge & bar with Science Corner and library
Facing the front of the ship, the Expedition Lounge – complete with a refreshment station and library – is a fantastic place to admire the beauty of the Galápagos’ Islands from inside. The Science Corner includes a glass cabinet, a microscope and a whale vertebrae clone, a perfect learning zone about our science activities.
Sky deck
The Sky deck offers spaces where guests can relax and enjoy their Galápagos expeditions basking in the sun at the very top of the ship. The sun deck and fitness room are located here.
Wellness and workouts
Whenever you feel the need to get your body moving, exercise facilities are on hand to get your pulse up. And whether you’re relaxing after a day of fascinating lectures, or a long hike, there’ll be plenty of opportunities to relax your body and mind.
Fitness Room
Our fitness center is equipped with yoga mats, set of weights, 2 treadmills, 2 stationary bikes, and an elliptical trainer for those guests who do not want to let their routine slide.
Hot Tub
For a nice relaxing time our two hot tubs with capacity for 5 guests each. Located on the Expedition deck are ideal.
Inclusions
HX Expedition voyages include
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• On board lectures
• Daily expeditions and activities such as hikes, community visits, talks and more
• Full board dining, including breakfast, lunch and dinner with house wine and beer
• Wine, beer, spirits and cocktails available across the day and evening
• All-day coffee, tea & soft drinks
• Free Wi-Fi
• Gratuities
• Our interactive science programme, Science Centre and activities both on and off the ships
• Access to sauna, hot tubs, fitness room and more
• Professional photos from the onboard photographer
• Opportunities to engage with and support local communities and environmental initiatives through Hurtigruten Foundation.
• Take home expedition jacket and reusable water bottle
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
Coastal Express include
• Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen
• Norwegian- and English-speaking Coastal Experience Team on board
• Engaging onboard activities and lectures:
• Onboard lectures and presentations on Norway’s history, biology, geography, geology, and culture
• Introductory photo presentation, camera adjustment and tips and tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage
• A welcome event, and daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
• Presentations about the ports we visit
• Presentation of excursion programmes
• Point of interest presentations out on deck
• Captain’s dinner and a farewell event
• Return flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, andBaltra and Guayaquil
• Two hotel nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on day 2.
• Transfer from the hotel in Quito to Quito Airport before the expedition cruise, transfers between Baltra
• Full day Nature Tour to Cotopaxi National Park, including lunch
• Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
• Transit Control Card for Galápagos Islands
• Access to airport lounge at Guayaquil or Quito Airport upon return from Galápagos Islands
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers unless otherwise stated
• Optional Excursions
• Pre and Post voyage accommodation
• Beverages on board unless otherwise stated (Premium drinks (top shelf spirits, vintage wines, champagne, etc.)
• Meals while ashore
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
• Some specialist excursions and experiences with limited capacity
• Fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant
• For those who want to set sail in style for a little bit extra, our Expedition Suites offer a complimentary bottle of champagne, unlimited access to our Lindstrøm fine dining restaurant, laundry and turn-down service and more.
Notes
• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet your entry and boarding requirements
Yacht
Highlights
• Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we set out from Quito to explore the incomparable beauty and wildlife of the Galápagos Islands.• See the unique and diverse wildlife of the Galápagos.
• Learn about the islands and Darwin’s research from the onboard Expedition Team.
Our Associates Include
