Elite Catamaran Galapagos cruise Itinerary B Southern & Central Islands 8 days

David Rodriguez Breeding Center

Suarez Point

Unique to Española island are also the beautiful waved albatross, that can be seen majestically launching themselves out across the ocean from the cliffs and the red and green marine iguanas. 

Gardner Bay

Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Cormorant Point showcases two distinct beaches: one with olive-green sand rich in olivine crystals and another known as ‘Flour Beach,’ which features pristine white sand made from crushed coral. 

A highlight is the saltwater pond, home to one of the largest populations of Galapagos flamingos, along with other shorebirds like stilts, white-cheeked pintails, and large-billed flycatchers. 

Afterward, guests will board a zodiac for a trip to Devil’s Crown, an almost entirely submerged underwater volcanic crater. Only a small part of the rock formation is visible, resembling a crown from above. Snorkelers can explore a vibrant underwater landscape filled with coral reefs and a diverse range of marine life. This area is also a notable birdwatching spot due to its open-water location.

Post Office Bay

Long before the Galapagos Islands became a popular travel destination, they served as a stop for large wooden sailing ships, including whalers. Sailors left a barrel near a sheltered bay on Floreana Island to send and receive letters from home. 

Today, yachts in the Galapagos carry on this tradition: visitors can drop off letters and postcards in the barrel, which other travelers will deliver. After browsing the letters for any intended for your area, you can relax on the small beach where passengers board and disembark from the landing craft.

The Baroness’ Lookout

In the early 1930s, Floreana Island was the home of Eloise Wehrborn de Wagner-Bosquet, a striking young Austrian woman with two lovers, who dubbed herself “the Baroness of Galapagos.” She became an international sensation but mysteriously vanished in 1934, leaving her case unsolved.

The site visit includes a brief panga ride, where you may spot rays and turtles. The shore features red mangroves vital to the island's ecosystem. Upon landing, a dusty trail leads upward to the lookout point, which is a rocky volcanic hill offering stunning views as a reward for those who make the climb. Nearby, you can find the ruins of an old biological station used in 1934 when filmmakers came to create a short film starring the Baroness.

Mosquera Islet

Mosquera, a small islet nestled between Baltra and North Seymour, is characterized by its sandy and rocky terrain, offering limited vegetation. It is a haven for sea lions and various bird species, including gulls. Visitors can also spot marine iguanas basking on the rocks and vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs in the tidal pools. Shorebirds are often seen walking along the beach. The area is known for good snorkeling, with dive shops in Puerto Ayora offering day trips. After the morning visit, guests will prepare for departure to Baltra Airport, traveling across Santa Cruz Island's highlands. Airport staff will assist with check-in before saying farewell and boarding the flight back to mainland Ecuador.

Bachas Beach

Bachas Beach ranks among the most stunning beaches in the Galapagos, featuring a long stretch of pristine white sand where sea lions relax and crabs scurry about. The beach has historical significance, having been used by Americans during World War II; its name derives from "barges," which were once unloaded here. Sea turtles nest in the surrounding sand dunes, and guests are advised to avoid marked areas to protect the eggs. Nearby, two salt lagoons are frequented by flamingos. There's no formal hiking; instead, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the warm beach and take a refreshing dip, with some opting for easy snorkeling in the gentle waves.

Prince Philip's Steps, El Barranco

Darwin Bay

Espumilla Beach

This idyllic location is perfect for snorkeling or kayaking/paddle boarding amongst a raft of marine life, including species of octopus, eels and sharks.

Buccaneer Cove

Egas Port

Black Turtle Cove

The first stop of the day is Black Turtle Cove, located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz. This area exemplifies how mangroves transform the marine environment, creating a diverse and unique habitat. Three species of mangroves line the shore, extending into a shallow lake that stretches nearly a mile inland.

As you glide through the tranquil waters in a zodiac, expect to spot spotted eagle rays and diamond-shaped mustard rays swimming in formation. White-tipped reef sharks glide beneath the boat, while Pacific green sea turtles surface for air and mating. Various waterfowl, such as pelicans, herons, and egrets, feed in the cove. It’s a serene spot where visitors frequently enjoy close encounters with Galapagos wildlife, often making it a trip highlight!

Highlands and Charles Darwin Research Station

In the highlands of Santa Cruz, you’ll have the chance to see the famous giant tortoises in their natural habitat. These iconic endemic animals are so renowned they inspired the name of the archipelago. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here, with the area home to finches and other Galapagos birds.

After exploring the highlands, the journey continues to the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, guests can learn about essential efforts to preserve the archipelago’s ecosystems.

The station also hosts an important breeding program for Galapagos tortoises, which have been declining since the 1970s.

These fascinating reptiles are accustomed to human presence, so don’t forget your camera for some great close-up shots!

Isla Lobos, known as “Sea Lion Island,” is a narrow island located near San Cristobal Island. True to its name, it hosts a thriving population of sea lions. A trail runs through the island, offering visitors a chance to spot various bird species, including Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies. The island is also inhabited by marine iguanas and lava lizards.

Beyond the hiking trails, the tranquil waters between Lobos Island and San Cristobal provide excellent snorkeling opportunities, where visitors can enjoy close encounters with the playful sea lions.

After our morning excursion, passengers will prepare for departure and be transported to San Cristobal Airport. Our airport staff will assist with the check-in process before saying goodbye and boarding the flight back to mainland Ecuador.