Explore Darwin’s islands in one action-filled week aboard our new National Geographic Islander ll. Witness the iconic wildlife that sparked the theory of evolution by natural selection, snorkel pristine waters teeming with sea lions and sea turtles, and hike black-sand beaches and lush highlands. As with our classic, 10-day expeditions, honed over more than 50 years, each voyage is crafted to offer a diverse perspective of the archipelago with multiple adventures daily on land and undersea.
- Experience all Galápagos offers in just over one week, with departures on Saturday and Thursday
- Snorkel and kayak among colorful fish, sea turtles, penguins, and playful sea lions, and walk among colonies of wildlife and seabirds unfazed by your presence
- Maximize your time in the islands with options for exploration every day including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and more
- Add a three-night post-expedition extension in Quito, Ecuador
- Have more time? Take back-to-back voyages and see more of the archipelago—because no single site in Galápagos National Park can be visited by the same ship more than once in two weeks, consecutive voyages call on different islands.
- With National Geographic Global Explorers, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will learn about this fascinating part of the world—from “sneezing” iguanas to giant tortoises
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Upon arrival in Guayaquil, Ecuador, transfer to the 44-room Hotel del Parque, a tranquil haven surrounded by lush gardens set in a lovingly restored 19th-century building. Most flights arrive in the late evening. Choose to arrive early for an optional extra night to rest, relax, and prepare for your voyage. Or opt for the full-day excursion from Guayaquil to Hacienda La Danesa. Ask your expedition specialist about options, including flying into Quito, Ecuador's capital, instead of Guayaquil.
Arrival Time: Anytime.
Arrival City: Guayaquil or Quito, Ecuador
Fly to Baltra in the center of Galápagos, a little world unto itself in the Tropical Pacific. We are welcomed by our naturalist staff and start exploring the islands.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Listed below is a sample of islands we may visit during our expedition. Our expeditions begin and end at Baltra and include visits to Isla Santa Cruz and a careful selection of diverse islands. No two days are alike. Each of our itineraries offers an optimal balance of wildlife, landscapes, and experiences. All ship itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations.
North Seymour: Look for nesting frigatebirds, plus land and marine iguanas, and enjoy a beautiful coastal walk.
Santa Cruz: Head to the lush, green highlands to look for giant tortoises roaming in the wild.
Isabela: Toast crossing the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins as we ply these nutrient-rich waters, once the haunt of whalers and pirates.
Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant and the largest marine iguanas.
San Cristóbal: Search for red-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island.
Española: Located in the extreme southeast of the archipelago, this island is home to swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies, and seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatrosses at Punta Suárez.
Floreana: Follow a trail past a rose 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return by air to Guayaquil, where we transfer to the Hotel del Parque—or continue to Quito for an optional three-night extension. You may be able to take advantage of overnight flights. Ask your Expedition Specialist for details.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Stay and linger in Guayaquil or return home today.
Departure Time: Anytime on day 8, or after 7:00 p.m. local time on day 7.
Departure City: Guayaquil or Quito, Ecuador
Itineraries are subject to change.
National Geographic Islander
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 49 metres
Passenger Capacity: 48 guests (in 24 cabins)
Built: 1982
The National Geographic Islander is a versatile 164-foot twin-hulled vessel with 24 spacious cabins comfortably accommodating 48 guests. She is a sturdy expedition ship, designed for year-round discovery and active exploration of the Galápagos and can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to its small size. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours. Thanks to our sturdy fleet of Zodiacs and virtually untippable kayaks, you can be off the ship and out exploring within a moment’s notice. During your time with us, our expedition staff likes nothing better than to surprise and delight you by directing the ship toward alluring coves or bow-riding dolphins. Our seasoned crew consists of expert Zodiac drivers and considerate service providers. Their energy, enthusiasm and local field expertise are sure to enhance your experience. This is what expedition travel is all about: not just seeing wildness, but being out there, in it.
Public Areas: Ship is fully air-conditioned. Covered deck with hammocks, chairs and tables; Doctor's Office; Fitness Center; Global Market; LEXspa; Library; Lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slide shows and presentations; and Sky Deck. Our Ecuadorian Captain and Officers welcome guests to the Bridge in accordance with our "Open Bridge" policy.
Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with an Ecuadorian flair. Cabins: All cabins have a window with an outside view, private facilities, and climate controls. Expedition Equipment: Hydrophone, kayaks, snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, wet suits, and Zodiac landing craft. Special Features: Guest internet access, laundry service, LEXmarket, and Wellness Program. A ship's doctor, Undersea Specialist, and Video Chronicler are also onboard.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
