The Islander Galapagos

The moment you step foot on your first island here you’ll see that freedom and fearlessness are a way of life. Whether strolling the islands’ pristine beaches, searching for the spectacular waved albatross, having a “chat” with a particularly friendly sea lion, or snorkeling with Galápagos penguins, a glorious feeling of uninhibitedness abounds. And, thanks to the legacy of Jacques Cousteau, we are able to keep that feeling alive as we make wide use of our fleet of nimble Zodiacs that can nose into landfalls and cruise along reefs, which afford us intimate views of “the action.” Meanwhile, our expert naturalists are always there to point out particularly unusual wildlife behaviors and characteristics so that you may observe, inquire and react as it unfolds before your eyes. Their specialized knowledge and interests — marine biology, zoology, botany, and geology — will transform your experience into a biology class in real-time. Here in Darwin’s natural laboratory, the animal world is your oyster.

Itinerary:

Day 1 - Miami/Guayaquil, Ecuador
Depart U.S. and arrive Guayaquil by late evening. We’ve found that Miami is a convenient gateway for most, but other air alternatives are available. Our air coordinators can help determine which airline and flights are best for you. If you choose to take the non-stop American Airlines group flight from Miami, we depart in the early evening with a flying time of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, it’s a short drive to the Hotel Hilton Colón.

Day 2 - Guayaquil/Baltra, Galápagos/Embark Polaris
Fly from Guayaquil to Baltra in the Galápagos Islands, where you embark M.S. Polaris.

Days 3 - 8 - Exploring the Galapagos Islands
While our exact routing depends on the National Park Service, we may visit the following islands: Santa Cruz, Española, Floreana, Genovesa, Fernandina, Isabela, Bartolomé and Santiago. Here is a brief description of what each island offers.

• Santa Cruz: This epicenter of Galápagos administration is home to the National Park headquarters, as well as the Charles Darwin Research Station where we’ll learn about their vital preservation work. Wild giant tortoises forage in the highlands.
• Española: Blue-footed boobies and sea lions galore. Española marine iguanas and waved albatross (mid-April through mid-December) are exclusive to this island. Snorkel and stroll one of Galápagos’ best beaches.
• Floreana: Flamingos sometimes feed in the island’s large lagoon and colonies of sea lions and blue-footed boobies reside here. Snorkel with playful sea lions.
• Genovesa: Genovesa, a collapsed caldera, allows picture-perfect anchorage. It’s home to the red-footed and Nazca booby, a significant population of frigate birds; and it’s a great place to snorkel.
• Fernandina: Explore Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island — the most pristine and youngest island in Galápagos — where marine iguanas warm themselves and sea lions bask by mangroves.
• Isabela: Visit the small town of Puerto Villamil and nearby saltwater lagoons, explore the island’s caves or simply stroll along a beautiful beach.
• Bartolomé: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and beautiful golden sand converge. Great walks, views and a good chance to snorkel with penguins — a tropical oxymoron.
• Santiago: Santiago provides a chance to see the Galápagos fur seal, along with the opportunity to enjoy the best “tide pooling.”

Day 9 - Galápagos/Disembark Ship/Quito
This morning disembark the ship and fly to Quito. The afternoon is free to rest or explore this colonial city and prepare for your journey home. Overnight at the Hotel Hilton Colón. (If you prefer to return via Guayaquil, please inquire.)

Day 10 - Quito/Home
This morning fly home — or anywhere else you might have decided to go.

What's Included:

Accommodations, all meals aboard ship.

What's Not Included:

Air fare Miami/Guayaquil/Galápagos/Guayaquil/Miami.

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