North Galapagos Islands 8 Day Cruise

Explore the unique wildlife, including islands, birds, sea lions, and intriguing flora that captivated Charles Darwin during the 8-Day Cruise of the Northern Galapagos Islands. This experience is designed for nature enthusiasts!

8-Day Cruise of the Northern Galapagos Islands

Day 1: Baltra & Santa Cruz Islands

Welcome to the Galapagos Islands! Your journey begins with a pickup at the Seymour Ecological Galapagos Airport on Baltra Island, where you will board a catamaran for an 8-day adventure across the northern islands. Enjoy a welcome drink as you set off, first stopping at Santa Cruz to visit Bachas Beach, home to blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. Discover insights regarding these species and their environment before returning to the vessel for a delightful onboard lunch.

In the afternoon, engage in a hiking expedition and go snorkeling at Bachas Beach. Following your activities, unwind with dinner onboard as we navigate towards Genovesa Island.

Day 2: Genovesa Island

Following breakfast, we will land at Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island and embark on a vigorous hike along the El Barranco Trail, where stunning views and red-footed boobies await. Explore a rich Palo Santo forest during this adventure. After a day filled with wildlife encounters, dinner will be served on the boat as we continue our journey towards Isabela Island.

Post-lunch, we will explore El Barranco further at the renowned Prince Phillip's Steps, a site named in honor of the 1964 visit by Prince Phillip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II.

The day culminates with a delightful dinner on board as we head towards Santiago Island.

Day 3: Santiago & Rábida Islands

Today, we will dock at Sullivan Bay for a panoramic boat tour showcasing distinct magmatic formations, including pahoehoe or rope lava flows, ideal for observing various types of lava. An opportunity to snorkel in this vibrant environment is also on the agenda.

After lunch, proceed to Rábida Island, known for its unique reddish hue attributed to oxidized iron in the lava. Here, we will search for nine varieties of finches, large-billed flycatchers, and brown pelicans, creating a perfect setting for bird-watching enthusiasts.

Finally, return to the vessel for dinner and cruise back to Santa Cruz.

Day 4: Santa Cruz Island

Upon arrival at Santa Cruz, delve into the fascinating world of the Galapagos tortoises and learn about their conservation efforts.

In the afternoon, a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and its Improvement Center will unveil insights into the islands' biology and geology. Have you heard of Jorge?

Following an informative day, enjoy dinner on board as we set sail towards Isabela Island.

Day 5: Isabela Island

Begin your day exploring Elizabeth Bay from the boat, where swimming in its inviting waters is encouraged before lunch.

Afterward, journey to Urbina Bay, an area formed by the uplift of molten materials that also unveiled fossils of sharks and lobsters unable to reach the ocean. Observations of flightless cormorants and brown pelicans, alongside Galapagos cotton, will enrich your experience.

Conclude with dinner onboard as we navigate to the opposite side of Isabela Island, arriving at Tagus Cove.

Day 6: Isabela & Fernandina Islands

After breakfast, explore Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, a haven surrounded by two volcanic craters rich in biodiversity.

Later, post-lunch, we will venture to Fernandina Island for a walk around Espinosa Point, where flat lava formations, cormorants, sea lions, and iguanas reside.

The day wraps up with dinner onboard as we sail towards Santiago Island.

Day 7: Santiago Island

Today, experience the stunning views of Espumilla Beach.

In the afternoon, set out on a boat trip to Buccaneer's Cove, a historical refuge for pirates and whalers, where towering cliffs enhance the landscape and a notable wild goat population can be seen.

Following, visit Egas Port, known for its picturesque qualities, before checking out the island's salt mines, which are sure to impress.

After this full day, return to the boat for dinner and sail towards Santa Cruz Island.

Day 8: Santa Cruz & Baltra Islands

As your journey concludes, embark on a sightseeing tour of Black Turtle Cove, a natural haven where you can once again marvel at the incredible marine life, such as manta rays, turtles, and young sharks.

Subsequently, we will depart from the Galapagos Islands Airport, concluding this unforgettable 8-day expedition around 8:30 am.

About the Boat

This 8-day cruise will take place on a luxurious catamaran, accommodating up to 14 guests plus the crew.

Your stay includes full board, featuring all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. When booking, you can select from the following room types:

Superior cabin (double bed)Standard cabin (double and single bed)Cabin with a bunk bed

All cabins are equipped with private bathrooms.

Snorkeling

Weather and sea conditions permitting, we will have the opportunity to go snorkeling in several key locations around the islands.

Pricing Information

The stated price is per person in a double cabin. Solo travelers may book a double cabin but might be paired with another individual of the opposite gender.

Explore More of the Galapagos Islands

If desired, you can also book other options such as the South Galapagos Islands 8 Day Cruise. If your schedule is shorter, consider reserving our South Galapagos Islands 4 Day Cruise or the North Galapagos Islands 4 Day Cruise.

Cancellation Policy

Should you need to cancel after making a reservation, a fee between 150USD and 250USD, depending on the season, will be retained. The remaining cruise cost will be refunded. Please refer to the cancellation policy section for more details.