Best of the Galápagos East - Galápagos Explorer
An unparalleled 7-night journey discovering the enchanting eastern islands of this magnificent archipelago.
SPECIAL OFFER
9.0*
ECO SCORE
13
PASSENGERS
8
DAYS
3/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Galápagos: Drink It In
Welcome Aboard the
Galápagos Explorer
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Galápagos Islands, where nature reigns supreme. Spot the blue-footed boobies of North Seymour, navigate the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of San Cristóbal, and marvel at the waved albatross courtship rituals on Española. Hike alongside land iguanas on Floreana, witness the giant tortoises of Santa Cruz, and snorkel amongst playful sea lions and penguins off the coast of Bartolomé. This island-hopping adventure will unveil the unique ecosystems and captivating wildlife that make the Galápagos a true treasure trove of biodiversity.
- • Snorkel or swim around an iconic volcanic rock formation, encountering sea lions and tropical fish.
• Observe giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat and explore the lush forests home to various bird species.
• Enjoy a multitude of ocean adventures on this luxury yacht with all the necessary equipment provided alongside an expert crew and guides.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
SPECIAL OFFER:
Rates:
From $10,950 per person
Departs every other Monday, year-round.
The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. From December to May, the warm season offers calmer seas, sunny skies, and excellent snorkeling with vibrant marine life. From June to November, cooler waters bring nutrient-rich currents, attracting diverse wildlife and making this the prime time for birdwatching and observing unique animal behaviors.
Inquire with your preferred dates.
Year-round departures;
Hover here for more information.
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
Waste
740,000 plastic water bottles saved from use per year.
Conservation
Has won multiple awards for conservation efforts, and partners with 7+ organizations globally.
Community
Partnership with local foundations to facilitate positive empowerment and development of local inhabitants.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival | North Seymour
PM: Upon arrival at Seymour Airport on Baltra Island, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to the Galápagos 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
AM - 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 lions.
PM - 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
AM - 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 Galápagos grunts. This is one of the rare beaches in the Galápagos 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.
PM - Suarez Point: This rocky land offers one of the most beautiful walks in the Galápagos, 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
AM - Cormorant Point: Located between two volcanic giants lies one of the largest lagoons in the Galápagos, a haven for the American flamingo. With only 350 known pairs left in the Galápagos, 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 Galápagos, 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, Galápagos grunts, whitetip sharks, eagle rays and stingrays.
PM - 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 postcard, 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
AM - 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.
PM - 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 center. 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 Galápagos Explorer, enjoying the hot tub and al fresco sundeck.
Day 6: Santa Cruz | Bartolomé
AM - Dragon Hill: This rocky, low-lying hill, aptly named after the iguanas, is home to an impressive population of Galápagos 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 Galápagos cotton. Along the way, keep an eye out for finches, yellow warblers and flycatchers.
PM - Pinnacle Rock: Exactly 375 steps lead you to the summit of an extinct volcano, boasting some of the best views in the Galápagos. Definitely worth all the hard work! Afterwards, take a panga boat ride along the coast in search of the Galápagos 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 Galápagos 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 Galápagos.
AM - 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.
PM - 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
AM: Today is your last day exploring the Galápagos
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 Galápagos Explorer as you head to Seymour Airport on Baltra Island for your flight onward.
Galápagos Explorer
Setting course June 2024, our all-new 124 ft expedition yacht seeks to exclusively explore the Galápagos’ diverse islands uncovering all its wild creatures. With only 12 guests on board, our elevated guest-to-staff ratio makes the Galápagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht operating in the islands. From tailored dining experiences to curated water and land experiences, our dedicated team continuously goes beyond the expected, offering a level of personalized service and attention to detail like no other.
On board the Galápagos Explorer, natural materials and rich textures celebrating local culture harmonize to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden accents and neutral colors 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 Galápagos. 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.
Guest Capacity: 13
Cabins: 6
Expert Naturalist Guides & Crew
ACHIEVEMENTS
2024 Best Marine Safari Experience, The Safari Awards
2021 Africa's Leading Conservation Company, World Travel Awards
2021 Africa's Leading Game Reserve Brand, World Travel Awards
2019 Silver in Best for Transparent Reporting, WTM World Responsible Tourism
"The Galápagos Explorer offers a stunning, intimate way to see these extraordinary islands. Onboard the luxury yacht, passengers can relax on the al fresco sundeck with a soak in the hot tub, indulge in gourmet meals, or retreat to their air-conditioned cabins and suites featuring lavish bathrooms. Ashore, this dedicated, eco-passionate crew offers specially curated water and land experiences, guided by top-notch experts. For travelers looking to explore the volcanic archipelago in supreme style, the Galápagos Explorer delivers."
Wild Nectar
Life On Board
Deck Plan
Click to enlarge
Questions?
Rates
We welcome the addition of the stunningly refurbished Galápagos Explorer to the fleet of new luxury ships in the region. This operator has a powerful passion for sustainability. The cuisine, decor, expert guiding and attention to detail will combine beautifully with their above and beyond commitment to conservation and minimizing impact. Highly recommended!
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
Accommodation; Three meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers and tea and coffee; Daily excursions; VIP Lounge at Seymour Airport; Road transfers to and from Seymour Airport; Internet (via Starlink); Limited laundry; Activities included: All excursions including panga boat rides, hikes, island visits, beach walks, visit to Charles Darwin Research Station, kayaking and snorkeling (snorkeling gear included: short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins).
NOT INCLUDED:
Administration fee; Champagne, cognac, fine wines, premium brand spirits and cigars; Flights to and from the Galápagos; Migratory Card (per entry); Park Fees (per stay); Items of personal nature; Gratuities; Visas; Travel insurance.
