5 days – Southern Islands Galapagos mega yacht tour - Isabella II - Isabela II Expedition Ship

5 days – Southern Islands Galapagos mega yacht tour - Isabella II - Isabela II Expedition Ship | Isabela II | Galapagos Tours 5 days – Southern Islands Galapagos mega yacht tour - Isabella II - Isabela II Expedition Ship | Isabela II | Galapagos Tours
This Galapagos tour will put you in front of the most interesting wildlife, in particular birds like the waved albatross, all 3 types of boobies (red footed, blue footed and masked or Nazca) and of course the iconic Galapagos tortoise. The activities are well balanced between nature hikes and opportunities to explore the turqoise waters of the marine reserve as you swim and snorkel with playful sea lions, marine iguanas, turtles, rays and reef fish. You will navigate the waters of the Southern islands of the archipelago on board the mega yacht M/V Isabela II. She only carries 48 guests and has all the necessary equipment to offer a comprehensive expedition with amazing wildlife encounters. Ideal for alumni groups or travel club charters, as well as individual guests who are looking for a high end on board experience as well as a premium wildlfie viewing program.

Day by day

Day 1: Santa Cruz Island: Puerto Ayora & the Charles Darwin Research Station

We arrive at Baltra airport and then we take you to the Itabaca Channel to take a ferry across to Santa Cruz Island. A 30 minutes bus ride takes us to a restaurant in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy lunch, and then continue to Puerto Ayora. Depending on local weather conditions up in the highlands, we may include a short hike which will be a great introduction to some Galapagos wildlife. Our Expedition Team will advise accordingly.

After driving down from the highlands, we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise pens within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest home to many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Late afternoon we stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora before embarking on Yacht Isabela II. We review the expeditions plan for next day, and enjoy the Captain’s welcome cocktail and dinner.

 
Day 2: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay & Baroness Lookout

After breakfast, we land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as an informal post office in the archipelago for over two centuries. Snorkelling off the beach.

Our visit to Punta Cormorant takes in an olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk by a brackish water lagoon where bird species like stilts and flamingos may be observed. On the other side of the island, we come to a white-sand beach where sea turtles come out at night to nest. Snorkeling will happen at lovely “Champion Islet” site, or ride in the panga or glass-bottom boat.

 
Day 3: Española Island: Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay

Our morning outing at Punta Suarez provides an exciting walk on lava/boulder terrain to visit its unique sea bird colonies including the waved albatrosses (April – January), boobies, swallow-tail gulls, mockingbirds, and the famous “blowhole”. Also, look for red-green-black marine iguanas. Back on board for lunch.

In the afternoon, we set down at this beautiful, white coral beach for a short walk to observe Galapagos sea lions, finches, maybe a hawk or just enjoy the beach. There is great snorkelling in this area, or else there’s time to kayak, or enjoy the glass-bottom boat. The turquoise colour of the waters at this location will be a favourite one to photograph.

 
Day 4: San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo

In the morning, we land on the eastern tip of the island to see Punta Pitt. The trail that ascends from the beach provides spectacular views of the shoreline and is the only site in the Galapagos where the three species of boobies can be found together, joined by the two frigatebird species plus a colony of bachelor sea lions. After the walk, if conditions are favourable, there is a chance to swim, kayak or snorkel from the beach or hop onto the panga for a ride along the coast.

In the afternoon, following lunch on board, we set out on a panga ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers which take us to Cerro Brujo’s expansive, white coraline beach, great for walking, with rewarding birdwatching including good views of both sea and shore birds. Also, keep your eyes open for Galapagos sea lions. These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked upon, back in September 1835.  After the walk, there is a chance to swim and snorkel.

 
Day 5: San Cristóbal Island & Departure
After breakfast, we depart to the pier and airport for our flight back to the mainland.

Itinerary Map

Click on the map to navigate the itinerary
5 days – Southern Islands Galapagos mega yacht tour - Isabella II - Isabela II Expedition Ship | Galapagos Map

Highlights

  • A learning and fulfilling visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station.
  • Visit Punta Pitt where you will find the 3 types of Sulidae birds - Blue Footed, Red Footed and Nazca Boobies
  • Fantastic wildlife on every step you take at Suarez Point and Gardner Bay.
  • Walk on olive colored sand at Punta Cormorant beach on Floreana Island

Meals Included

  • Breakfast Served Daily
  • 4 Dinners
  • 5 Lunches
Santa Cruz | Galapagos Islands
Punta Cormorant | Galapagos Islands
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Playa Negra | Galapagos Islands

Reviews

Mind-blowing experience
- Catherine Pyron
The entire experience was mind-blowing! The crew was knowledgeable, kind and friendly. The boat was charming and comfortable. The number of travelers was also just right for one to meet new, and interesting fellow travelers. I loved this ship
More information about the Galapagos Islands you visit in this itinerary:
5 days – Southern Islands Galapagos mega yacht tour - Isabella II - Isabela II Expedition Ship
5 Days (5W)
From $4,132.00 per person


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