17 days from

£11076.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview

Highlights

Dates & Prices

Itinerary

Map

Ships

HighlightsSail through the stunning Galapagos archipelago, with highlights including Kicker Rock, Isla Bartolome, and Buccaneer Cove, where you'll encounter diverse wildlife and remarkable landscapes.
Explore the unique ecosystems of Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza, and Tagus Cove, with opportunities to witness the Galapagos' famous marine life and volcanic formations.
Visit historical sites like Post Office Bay and Champion Islet, known for their rich history and intriguing post barrel, and discover the fascinating natural beauty of Punta Cormorant.
Experience the captivating wildlife and natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands in destinations like Prince Philip's Steps, Gardner Bay, and Punta Suarez, where you'll encounter iconic species such as blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises.

                    Highlights
                    Sail through the stunning Galapagos archipelago, with highlights including Kicker Rock, Isla Bartolome, and Buccaneer Cove, where you'll encounter diverse wildlife and remarkable landscapes.
Explore the unique ecosystems of Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza, and Tagus Cove, with opportunities to witness the Galapagos' famous marine life and volcanic formations.
Visit historical sites like Post Office Bay and Champion Islet, known for their rich history and intriguing post barrel, and discover the fascinating natural beauty of Punta Cormorant.
Experience the captivating wildlife and natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands in destinations like Prince Philip's Steps, Gardner Bay, and Punta Suarez, where you'll encounter iconic species such as blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises.

                  

Ship Silver Origin

Capacity: 100, Type: Luxury Small Ship Cruise

The Galápagos is legendary for being an exceptional bucket list place to visit. Whether you’ve been before or this is your first time we have designed this voyage so it’s extraordinary. You’ll sail aboard Silver Origin which has been crafted especially for exploring this region. Equipped with all you need to enjoy the archipelago and with a team of experts who know everything there is to learn about the history and the fascinating 9,000 flora and fauna.

Sail through the stunning Galapagos archipelago, with highlights including Kicker Rock, Isla Bartolome, and Buccaneer Cove, where you'll encounter diverse wildlife and remarkable landscapes.
Explore the unique ecosystems of Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza, and Tagus Cove, with opportunities to witness the Galapagos' famous marine life and volcanic formations.
Visit historical sites like Post Office Bay and Champion Islet, known for their rich history and intriguing post barrel, and discover the fascinating natural beauty of Punta Cormorant.
Experience the captivating wildlife and natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands in destinations like Prince Philip's Steps, Gardner Bay, and Punta Suarez, where you'll encounter iconic species such as blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises.

28 June, 2024 to 14 July, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 21112 GBP pp

The Medallion Suite wears its name well – as it truly the gold medal of comfort in the Galapagos Islands. Designed with the adventurous guest in mind, enlarge your suite at the touch of the button with our unique Horizon Balcony. The perfect hybrid of expedition and luxury, the Medallion Suite features rich furnishings for easy-going comfort. An ocean view walk in shower extends your adventure even further.

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 16276 GBP pp

An ocean view walk-in shower plus our unique Horizon Balcony makes this the people’s choice when it comes to sailing the Galapagos Islands. Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed, Deluxe Veranda Suites are warm, spacious and elegantly designed, so that you can make the most of your adventure, without missing the comforts of home.

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 15548 GBP pp

Our Superior Veranda Suite is designed to give you immersion far beyond excursion in the Galapagos. Silver Origin’s unique Horizon Balcony converts your suite at the touch of a button, transforming your balcony into inside seating area. A large bathroom with window into the suite makes this an enviable option when choosing your Galapagos cruise.

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 31876 GBP pp

The Royal Suite really is fit for a king! Among our largest on offer, not only does this suite have a private, spacious veranda, but the privileged back ship location means that you’re sure to get the best views there are! Expect all your favourite comforts inside: large ocean-view bathroom with whirlpool bath with walk-in shower, state-of-the-art entertainment system and plush bedding to ensure the best night sleep you’ve ever had.

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14144 GBP pp

Stylish and sophisticated, the Classic Veranda is a haven of peace at the end of a busy day of discovery. A private veranda brings your destination even closer to home. Full butler service completes this suite.

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 47528 GBP pp

The name says it all; truly the apex of luxury, the Owner’s Suite is for those who want to experience the islands in comfort. A separate bedroom, modern bathroom with whirlpool bath with ocean views and elegant seating area ensure privacy and cosiness are the name of the game, while the vast veranda means full island immersion is assured.

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 25844 GBP pp

There has never been a better time to get up close and personal with the Galapagos’ fabled marine life than with the Silver Suite. Enormous floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants. An ocean-view whirlpool bath allows you to experience the beauty of the islands, while enjoying the creature comforts of Silversea. Deluxe furnishings complete the experience.

12 July, 2024 to 28 July, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 20488 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 37960 GBP pp

Grand by name and grand by nature! A prefect compliment to your Galapagos Islands cruise, the Grand suite affords superb views from morning to night thanks to a glass-panelled wall in the living area. A large, private veranda and ocean-view bathroom makes the most of the destination. Beautifully furnished and appointed, the Grand Suite is the perfect answer for those who like to explore in luxury.

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14872 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 13520 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 46176 GBP pp

26 July, 2024 to 11 August, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 13468 GBP pp

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 30472 GBP pp

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 24648 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 37336 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 15548 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14820 GBP pp

09 August, 2024 to 25 August, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 24024 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 15288 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 13312 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14664 GBP pp

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 19656 GBP pp

23 August, 2024 to 08 September, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 27352 GBP pp

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 22204 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14196 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 13676 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 12376 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 40664 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 33436 GBP pp

06 September, 2024 to 22 September, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 26416 GBP pp

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 17888 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14196 GBP pp

20 September, 2024 to 06 October, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 23764 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 34996 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 11076 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 12116 GBP pp

04 October, 2024 to 20 October, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 12272 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 13364 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 31772 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14040 GBP pp

25 October, 2024 to 10 November, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 37856 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 16016 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 14716 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 16744 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 45708 GBP pp

29 November, 2024 to 15 December, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 46852 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 38740 GBP pp

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 21528 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 17108 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 16380 GBP pp

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 26104 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 15132 GBP pp

13 December, 2024 to 29 December, 2024 on Silver Origin

Prices

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 17108 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 15652 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 17836 GBP pp

17 October, 2025 to 02 November, 2025 on Silver Origin

Prices

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 46592 GBP pp

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 30992 GBP pp

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 25480 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 19240 GBP pp

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 38168 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 56472 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 17160 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 18616 GBP pp

31 October, 2025 to 16 November, 2025 on Silver Origin

Prices

MEDALLION SUITE. From

£ 25584 GBP pp

ROYAL SUITE. From

£ 38272 GBP pp

OWNER'S SUITE. From

£ 56680 GBP pp

DELUXE VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 19344 GBP pp

SILVER SUITE. From

£ 31200 GBP pp

GRAND SUITE. From

£ 46800 GBP pp

CLASSIC VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 17264 GBP pp

SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITE. From

£ 18720 GBP pp

show reverse itinerary

Day 1 Pre Cruise

Day 2 San Cristóbal, Galapagos & Kicker Rock

Like so many of the islands in the Galapagos, San Cristobal is formed by dormant volcanoes. It lies to the east of the archipelago and is one of the oldest islands in the group. Approximately 8,000 people live on the island, making their living from tourism, fishing, in government offices, or off the rich volcanic soils with some limited farming existing in the highlands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern tip of the island is the capital city of the Galapagos Islands. A statue of Charles Darwin graces the harbor, marking one of the first places he likely stepped ashore in the 1830s. Kicker Rock is the vertical remnant of a former tuff cone less than 5 kilometers to the west of San Cristobal. Both its Spanish name “Leon Dormido” (Sleeping Lion) and English name Kicker Rock imply that it is one rock only -when in fact it is a larger one 300 meters long by 100 meters wide with a maximum height of approximately 150 meters and next to it an obelisk-like rock separated by a narrow channel some 20 meters deep. When approaching Kicker Rock, Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies and frigatebirds can be observed in the air, while sea lions can be seen along the shore. Snorkelers and divers have reported manta rays, hammerhead sharks and turtles. The Spanish name implies that the geological formation seen from the south resembles a sleeping lion. An interesting explanation for the English name suggests that James Colnett in 1794 likened it to famous landmarks in Portsmouth.

Day 3 Isla Bartolome & Buccaneer Cove, Santiago

Our ship anchors in sight of the volcanic moonscape of Isla Bartolomé, at Sullivan Bay. Zodiacs bring guests ashore to ascend a boardwalk of 388 steps. Passing through the arid volcanic landscape provides a chance to watch for lava lizards, Galapagos Hawks, and Blue-footed Boobies. However, the climber’s ultimate reward is one of the most beautiful panoramas in all of the Galapagos Islands – the view towards Pinnacle Rock with black, volcanic cones of Baltra, Daphne Major and Daphne Minor in the distance. On the way down watch how the sunlight catches the green of pioneering plant species in stark contrast against dark volcanic rock, and look forward to time swimming and snorkeling from the golden beach. Buccaneer Cove is a colourful inlet on Santiago or James Island. It owes its name to some of the first visitors to the area: pirates. They came searching for water, tortoises, and some people say even places to hide their treasures. We don't know about any pirate's gold, but the area's landscape is a treasure. The geology combines some tuff red cones with impressive basalt lava dikes and sills. The erosion has carved caves and shaped some rocks into unique forms such as the Bishop's Rock. Palo Santo trees and some giant Prickly pear cactus cover the area, and at a distance, you can observe the impressive volcanos of Isabela Island. We will explore the area from our Zodiacs, searching for sea birds such as Nazca Boobies, Blue Footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls. We can often find sea turtles and even reef sharks in this place. Also, in Buccaneer Cove, we can observe the two sea lions species: the Galapagos sea lion basking on the beaches and the fur seal looking for shade on the collapsed rocks along the coast.

Day 4 Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela) & Punta Espinoza, Fernandina

Punta Vicente Roca is one of the marine sites Isabela Island has to offer. On the southern side of Ecuador Volcano, the tip of land on the western end of Isabela is named after Vicente Ramon Roca, President of Ecuador from 1845-49, who as Prefect of Guayas had proposed the Ecuadorian annexation of the Galapagos Islands in 1831. The geological formations, the underwater caves and lava tubes offer fascinating views of the coastline. The South Equatorial Countercurrent hits this part of the archipelago from the west and the water offers abundant food sources for different marine life and seabirds. It is normal to see Pacific green turtles, but sharks, rays, whales and dolphins can also be expected, apart from a small colony of fur seals. Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, Brown Noddies and other seabirds nest in the cliffs and both the endemic Galapagos Penguins and Flightless Cormorants have established small colonies nearby. Marine iguanas also like this area because of the rich variety of seaweeds growing underwater along the western coast of Isabela. As a marine site, deepwater snorkeling is also possible at Punta Vicente Roca. With the gentle slopes of La Cumbre volcano in the distance, the low, lava-forged coast of Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island is a spectacular sight. Hundreds of marine iguanas rest on the black rock of recent lava flows absorbing heat from the stone and defending their territories against one another. Galapagos sea lions and their pups also take shelter here, resting on the beach and playing in the shallow tide pools sprinkled along the coast. Walk past high sandy areas where marine iguanas lay their eggs and along low, shallow mangrove ponds ringed with bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs and Flightless Cormorants drying their stubby wings in the sunshine.

Day 5 Tagus Cove (Isabela) & Elizabeth Bay (Isabela)

Tagus Cove is bordered by a steep rocky coastline and has for centuries offered shelter for ships and yachts. The cove is named after the British frigate HMS Tagus visiting the Galapagos in 1814. Already by the 1830s other ships had their visits recorded by painting or scratching their nameonto the rocks. On approach Galapagos Penguins and Flightless Cormorants –both birds mainly found on Isabela’s west coast and neighboring Fernandina- are often seen. From the landing a trail through an incense tree forest leads past Darwin Lake to a viewpoint on top of a spatter cone. During the hike several land birds including Medium Ground-Finches, Galapagos Hawks, Yellow Warblers as well as Large-billed Flycatchers are often present. Brown Noddies and Blue-footed Boobies prefer the rocks along the shore. Elizabeth Bay is one of the marine sites on Isabela’s west coast. South of Alcedo Volcano and north of Sierra Negra, Elizabeth Bay is found at Isabela’s narrowest east-west extension where the lava flows of these two volcanoes have connected each other. Elizabeth Bay’s shores show mangroves and specifically the easternmost part, a cove which can only be entered via a narrow channel, has red, white and black mangroves. Different animals prefer different parts of Elizabeth Bay. Las Marielas, three rocks at the entrance to the bay, are favored by Blue-footed Boobies, Flightless Cormorants and Galapagos Penguins as a resting place, while the mangrove area is preferred by Great Blue Herons for hunting or the Magnificent Frigatebirds for perching. The bay is used by turtles, rays and even sharks for feeding or resting. The shallow water and the root system of the mangroves in the small inlet allow smaller fish to hide from bigger predators.

Day 6 Post Office Bay (Floreana) & Champion Islet (Floreana) & Punta Cormorant (Floreana)

Floreana’s Post Office Bay has received its name as the site was used to leave mail for retrieval by others who were thought to stop at the Galapagos Islands or might be heading for the addressee’s direction. First mentioned by Porter in 1813 as “Hathaway’s Postoffice”, HMS Beagle’s captain FitzRoy stated that it was not in use in 1835 as the island was already settled at that time. Floreana had been the first island to be settled by Ecuadorians in 1832. Today a barrel instead of the original box is used by visitors who leave their own postcards and retrieve mail for hand-delivery. Apart from the beach and mail barrel the bay offers good swimming and snorkeling. The area holds remains of a failed Norwegian fish canning plant and settlement dating back to the 1920s. Although Floreana is inhabited, the number of residents is reduced because of the difficult access to water. A track from Post Office Bay connects with the only road from Puerto Velazco Ibarra on the west coast to a spring in the highlands. Champion Islet is a small islet some 700 meters off the northeast coast of Floreana. It is one of four marine sites surrounding Floreana and offers excellent deepwater snorkeling opportunities. Curious sea lions approach the snorkelers while turtles slowly swim by and sharks, sting rays, and a high diversity of colorful fishes can usually be seen. During a Zodiac cruise around Champion Islet not only seabirds such as Nazca Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, or Red-billed Tropicbirds will be seen, it is also possible to spot the rare Floreana Mockingbird. Floreana Island’s northernmost point is called Punta Cormorant – named after the British naval vessel HMS Cormorant and dating back to the late 19th century. From the landing beach a short track leads to a shallow lagoon that is famous for its flamingos. The brilliantly pink birds skim the salty waters for shrimp and tend to chicks on the nest. The trail then scales a low hillside through scattered Palo Santo trees to reveal an idyllic white-sand beach on the other side of the point. Standing at the edge of the lapping waves, you might spot mammoth female sea turtles hauling themselves out of the sea to lay eggs in the sugar sand dunes that lay high above the tide line. Before returning to the landing site your guides may also point out White-cheeked Pintails, Blue-footed Boobies, Yellow Warblers, and Medium and Small Ground Finches.

Day 7 Santa Cruz Highlands & Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz)

Santa Cruz Island reaches a maximum altitude of 864 meters (2,835 ft) above sea level; at high altitudes, weather changes creating microclimates. The species of flora and fauna found near the shoreline are extremely different from those on the highlands. Life in the highlands is much easier due to the presence of fresh water, from the constant drizzle that happens during the dry season to heavy rains that occur during the wet season. Local people take advantage of this climate to cultivate a large number of crops and giant tortoises love this ideal weather to mate, feed and rest before their next long migration to the shorelines. Silver Origin will anchor in front of Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, where the prestigious Charles Darwin Research Station is located. The station also houses the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center for giant tortoises and land iguanas where guides interpret the centre’s captive breeding and reintroduction programs. In addition to these star species, throughout the station there are huge prickly pear cactus trees being fed upon by the pretty Galapagos Cactus Finch. To round out the stay in Puerto Ayora, enjoy free time in town where local artists have created charming art galleries and corner cafés.

Day 8 Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz) & Isla Guy Fawkes & Bahía Borrero, Santa Cruz

A dry landing onto volcanic rock covered by Sally light-footed crabs will welcome you as you disembark for this walk discovering Cerro Dragon. Enjoy this visit that mixes a brackish water lagoon inhabited by shorebirds, some elusive pink flamingos and a volcanic rock cover dry enough to be the perfect ecosystem for the Galapagos land iguana. Search for this iconic Galapagos inhabitant that populates this area of Santa Cruz. Your guide will be on the lookout too, helping you to recognise them whether they are resting in their burrows or next to the cacti looking for food. Guy Fawkes is a group of four islets situated on the northwestern side of Santa Cruz Island. They are satellite cones, surrounded by deep waters. As they rise from the deep, they intercept with the strong sea currents making the area a place full of life. These small islets have beautiful underwater cliffs covered with all sorts of marine invertebrates such as sponges, corals, sea stars, urchins — making it a very colourful place for deep water snorkelling. Due to the conditions mentioned above, it results in some immense aggregations of fish, and, due to the depth of the water, it is not unusual to find Sharks or Manta Rays. Guy Fawkes is one of the most exciting places to deep water snorkel. You never know what you will find. In the northern area of Santa Cruz Island, Bahía Borrero is a beautiful white coralline beach used as a nesting site by Green Sea turtles. Behind the dunes, we have a forest of typical vegetation from the arid zone: Palo Santo, Leather leaf, and Salty bushes. This vegetation welcomes Yellow Warblers, and some of the most characteristic species of Darwin Finches, such as the Common Cactus Finch or the Small Ground Finch. This extinct volcano, due to its altitude, shows all the different zones of vegetation, changing from the littoral to the arid, and then with more moisture into the humid zone, to end in the dry pampa zone. It is an impressive landscape to enjoy while you swim in the turquoise waters of the bay or have a nice relaxing walk along the beach.

Day 9 San Cristóbal, Galapagos

Day 10 Prince Philips Step's, Genovesa & Darwin Bay, Genovesa

Genovesa is one of the northernmost islands of the archipelago. Genovesa’s southern side of the shield volcano’s crater collapsed and a protected bay known as Darwin Bay was formed. The island is often referred to as the “Bird Island” as the numbers and species of land and seabirds on Genovesa are quite extraordinary. There are two visitor sites, and Prince Philip’s Steps give access to the flat plateau above the bay. Named after Prince Philip who visited the Galapagos on two occasions, the “steps” are mostly natural. The steep cliffs are home to Red-billed Tropicbirds, while Magnificent Frigatebirds, Nazca and Red-footed Boobies prefer the top. The plateau above Prince Philip’s Steps has a palo santo forest and an extensive lava field. This is an area where one of the Galapagos’ top predators, the Short-eared Owl, is hunting storm petrels. The Short-eared Owls are extremely well camouflaged and are not always easy to spot in between the rocks. At Genovesa Island the ship tucks into Darwin Bay, an ancient volcanic crater now flooded by the sea. Zodiacs land on a picturesque sandy beach where Galapagos sea lions often rest on the fine, white sand. Explorations along the shore may reveal marine iguanas looking like prehistoric dinosaurs in miniature. By heading inland a short distance visitors could encounter seabirds of all shapes and sizes nesting in the vegetation. Scores of immature Red-footed Boobies perch on branches within an arm’s reach of the path. In addition, watch for Great Frigatebirds and Yellow-crowned Night Herons along the walk. There is also fantastic snorkeling in the waters of Darwin Bay with the opportunity to see large schools of reef fish and brightly colored sea stars.

Day 11 North Seymour & Sullivan Bay (Santiago)

The landing at North Seymour Island is onto black lava rock. After a short climb, visitors arrive on the island’s flat plateau where a number of sea lions nurse pups and frigatebirds nest. The island is dry, and so the predominant tree is the prickly pear cactus favored by the Galapagos land iguanas that live here in number. The undulating terrain is littered with red-brown volcanic boulders and large male Magnificent Frigatebirds can be seen inflating their vivid red gular sacs in hopes of impressing females flying overhead. At certain times of the year, pairs of Blue-footed Boobies dance here in a ritualized mating dance that reinforces their pair bond and shows off their vivid blue feet. The snorkeling here is well-known for schools of colorful creole wrasses and parrot fish. The lava fields of Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island will inevitably remind visitors of the surface of the moon. As brilliant red Sally Lightfoot crabs scuttle along the black volcanic shores, learn about the formation of the islands through geological forces from your guides. The lava flows here are just over one hundred years old and date back to 1897. The lava took on a rope-like appearance and geologists have adopted a Hawaiian word, pahoehoe, as the technical name for this kind of volcanic rock.

Day 12 Punta Mangle, Fernandina & Punta Moreno, Isabela

Among the impressive new lava fields of Fernandina Island hides a cove surrounded by mangroves. A rewarding place for bird-watching as the bay is the point where the land meets the sea, joining the two environments, with sea birds, shorebirds and land birds all in the same place. The different species of mangroves: Red, White and Black, have formed a root system that serves as a nursery for many species of fish, including juveniles’ sharks and green sea turtles. Snorkeling is as rewarding with some unique sightings as Marine Iguanas feeding on algae, or flightless cormorants diving for their prey. This impressive and vast Pahoehoe black lava field is located on the south coast of Isabella Island and lies between two soaring active volcanoes, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, which you have a panoramic view of in the distance. Hike over huge other-worldly landscapes of corrugated lava which have been there for millennia. You can picture the lakes of hot lava as they poured from the mouth of the volcanoes now frozen in time. The rich blue waters of Cromwell Current wash the shores, and as a result, you can see the largest Marine Iguanas of the archipelago basking on the rocks. Watch Flightless Cormorants and Galapagos Penguins diving for food. Other wildlife to be found here includes Great blue Herons, White tipped Reef Sharks and look out for pelicans who nest in the emerald mangrove forest near the coastal lagoon.

Day 13 Santa Cruz Highlands & Isla Santa Fé

Santa Cruz Island reaches a maximum altitude of 864 meters (2,835 ft) above sea level; at high altitudes, weather changes creating microclimates. The species of flora and fauna found near the shoreline are extremely different from those on the highlands. Life in the highlands is much easier due to the presence of fresh water, from the constant drizzle that happens during the dry season to heavy rains that occur during the wet season. Local people take advantage of this climate to cultivate a large number of crops and giant tortoises love this ideal weather to mate, feed and rest before their next long migration to the shorelines. This island is home to a reptile that exists nowhere else in the world: The Santa Fe Land Iguana. A beach covered by sea lions is the beginning of our adventure where sea lions’ pups welcome the visitors with their naive curiosity. Then a rocky terrain will guide us to explore the island and the view from the cliff becomes a reward by itself. View some of the tallest and the widest prickly pear cactus of the islands. Also know for beautiful snorkelling and kayaking.

Day 14 Gardner Bay, Española & Punta Suarez, Española

Located on the northern coast of Española, the turquoise colour water and white sandy beach stand out from far away. This beach is made out of pulverised shells and corals offers a sandy patch of up to 1 kilometre in length. Española is considered one of the oldest in the Galapagos and has thus developed species that are endemic. Along the coast of Gardner a subspecies of colourful Marine iguanas are living among Hood Mockingbirds. The apex predators Galapagos Hawks commonly visit the coastline and a couple of times a Giant tortoise has been seen here. Punta Suárez lies at the western point of Española, the oldest island in the Galápagos. Sheer cliffs provide superb thermals for seabirds and you may spot Swallow-tailed Gulls, Nazca Boobies and Blue-footed Boobies on the breeze. The largest seabird to nest in the Galapagos Islands is the Waved Albatross. These ocean wanderers can be seen seasonally here from April through December, when pairs reunite on Española, going through an elaborate pair-bonding display. Mockingbirds, doves, and occasional Galápagos Hawks can also be seen on the point, along with sea lions and colorful marine iguanas.

Day 15 Rodriguez Breeding Centre, San Cristóbal & Cerro Brujo, San Cristóbal

Like so many of the islands in the Galapagos, San Cristobal is formed by dormant volcanoes. It lies to the east of the archipelago and is one of the oldest islands in the group. Approximately 8,000 people live on the island, making their living from tourism, fishing, in government offices, or off the rich volcanic soils with some limited farming existing in the highlands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern tip of the island is the capital city of the Galapagos Islands. A statue of Charles Darwin graces the harbor, marking one of the first places he likely stepped ashore in the 1830s. An impressive tuff cone has been carved by erosion into an outstanding natural sculpture, being a resting place for marine birds such as blue-footed bobbies and brown pelicans. One of the most beautiful white sand beaches of the Galapagos (swim or snorkel). View sea lions, sally light footed crabs, blue-footed bobbies. Behind the dunes, you find a coastal lagoon, which was visited in the past by the locals to extract salt, today it is home to some shorebirds such as stilts and plovers.

Day 16 San Cristóbal, Galapagos

Day 17 Post Cruise

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

show main itinerary

Itineraries are subject to change.

Like so many of the islands in the Galapagos, San Cristobal is formed by dormant volcanoes. It lies to the east of the archipelago and is one of the oldest islands in the group. Approximately 8,000 people live on the island, making their living from tourism, fishing, in government offices, or off the rich volcanic soils with some limited farming existing in the highlands. Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern tip of the island is the capital city of the Galapagos Islands. A statue of Charles Darwin graces the harbor, marking one of the first places he likely stepped ashore in the 1830s. An impressive tuff cone has been carved by erosion into an outstanding natural sculpture, being a resting place for marine birds such as blue-footed bobbies and brown pelicans. One of the most beautiful white sand beaches of the Galapagos (swim or snorkel). View sea lions, sally light footed crabs, blue-footed bobbies. Behind the dunes, you find a coastal lagoon, which was visited in the past by the locals to extract salt, today it is home to some shorebirds such as stilts and plovers.

Santa Cruz Island reaches a maximum altitude of 864 meters (2,835 ft) above sea level; at high altitudes, weather changes creating microclimates. The species of flora and fauna found near the shoreline are extremely different from those on the highlands. Life in the highlands is much easier due to the presence of fresh water, from the constant drizzle that happens during the dry season to heavy rains that occur during the wet season. Local people take advantage of this climate to cultivate a large number of crops and giant tortoises love this ideal weather to mate, feed and rest before their next long migration to the shorelines. This island is home to a reptile that exists nowhere else in the world: The Santa Fe Land Iguana. A beach covered by sea lions is the beginning of our adventure where sea lions’ pups welcome the visitors with their naive curiosity. Then a rocky terrain will guide us to explore the island and the view from the cliff becomes a reward by itself. View some of the tallest and the widest prickly pear cactus of the islands. Also know for beautiful snorkelling and kayaking.

* = Indicative

Silver Origin

Guests capacity:	100
Crew capacity:	90
Built:	2020
Tonnage:	5,800 Tons

The first destination specific vessel launched by Silversea, Silver Origin is the height of luxury experiential cruising in the Galapagos. The islands are superbly presented with the best people and views: a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides, the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the Galapagos, 8 Zodiacs, seamless viewing and relaxing spaces that offer an extraordinary voyage. All-suite accommodation, Horizon Balconies, butler service, sophisticated interiors, interactive basecamp, Ecuadorian inspired cuisine … no aspect of Silver Origin has been left to chance. The most environmentally conscious ship Silversea have ever built, take a vertical leap and transform your idea of travel with Silver Origin.

Overview

Highlights

Dates & Prices

Itinerary

Map

Ship

17 days from £11076.0

Trip Tags

Wildlife Cruises Luxury

Luxury Galapagos 17 Day Expedition from San Cristóbal

Find the perfect trip

£11076.0

Highlights

Highlights

Silver Origin

17 days from £11076.0

Trip Tags

Find your favorite region

Similar Trips