Nemo II Galapagos Cruise

AM: Upon arrival, you’ll take care of your Galapagos National Park entrance fee. To help preserve this incredible environment, a quick luggage inspection ensures we keep it free from any foreign substances.

PM: Enjoy a welcome cocktail and lunch before navigating to Las Bachas beach in Santa Cruz. The name is a nod to the World War II barges wrecked offshore. Experience a wet landing for snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, small waders like sanderlings, and semi-palmated plovers around the saltwater lagoon.

• Activity:Arrival. Hiking. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Darwin Bay, nestled within the caldera of a dormant volcano, welcomes visitors with a serene small coral beach. A leisurely stroll awaits those seeking a relaxed exploration. For the more adventurous, an optional, challenging walk across rugged lava rock terrain beckons, promising a thrilling experience.

PM: Today we visit Genovesa Island, also known as “Bird Island”. Prince Philip’s Steps, also known as El Barranco, is a popular visitor site where tropicbirds, red-footed boobies, and other nesting seabirds can be found. We walk up a cliff through a Palo Santo forest to a storm petrel colony, passing red-footed and Nazca boobies and great frigatebirds along the way.

• Activity:Hiking. Birdwatching.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: On Santiago Island, Sullivan Bay invites you into a world of mystique and grandeur. As you step onto the expansive lava fields, the hardened lava flows beneath your feet tell a story of volcanic might. Snorkeling amidst the vibrant marine species, you wander through a kaleidoscope of colors.

PM: With its distinctive red-sand beach, diverse wildlife, and dazzling terrains, Rábida Island offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Explore the crystal-clear waters through snorkeling, encounter sea lions and marine iguanas, hike along scenic trails, and lose yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Explore the lush vegetation in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to see unique zones. Your visit to Rancho Las Primicias provides an excellent opportunity to observe Galapagos giant tortoises up close in their natural habitat.

PM: Return to Puerto Ayora for a visit to the Fausto Llerena Interpretation Center, inside the Charles Darwin Research Station. The center is dedicated to educating visitors about ongoing scientific research and conservation initiatives. It highlights the importance of responsible tourism by illustrating the environmental challenges faced by the Islands. The day concludes with dinner and our nightly orientation back on the yacht.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Elizabeth Bay, a haven of serenity and natural beauty, invites travelers to awaken their senses with the verdant embrace of mangrove forests and the striking presence of volcanic formations. The bay unveils a mesmerizing display of marine life that includes graceful sea turtles, lively penguins, elegant rays, and singular marine iguanas. Snorkeling enthusiasts will enjoy vibrant coral reefs beneath the sun-kissed waves.

PM: Next we sail to Urbina Bay, known for its unique geological uplift. A wet landing introduces nature walks, wildlife observation, and shallow-water snorkeling. Nestled at the base of Alcedo Volcano, south of Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay showcases a recent uplift phenomenon from 1954, elevating the shoreline by nearly 15 ft (4 m). Witness the captivating impact of geological shifts in this remarkable Galapagos location.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Sail to Isabela Island and arrive at the historic Tagus Cove. With a dry landing, commence a nature walk that ascends through the dry vegetation zone, offering panoramic views of Darwin Lake, a saltwater crater lake, and a narrow inlet. A panga ride adds a scenic touch to the adventure. Conclude the day with deep water snorkeling, appreciating the diverse marine life of the cove.

PM: Start your exploration of Fernandina Island with a wet landing at Espinoza Point. The morning nature walk unveils the island’s unique volcanic terrain, where flightless cormorants build nests, sea lions bask on the beach, and marine iguanas create a captivating spectacle. Immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world through deep-water snorkeling.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Transition to Buccaneer Cove through scenic panga (dinghy) rides. This historic site, less than an hour from Puerto Egas, served as a refuge for pirates, sailors, and whalers during the 18th and 19th centuries. Immerse yourself in the tales of this haven, where ships found respite for repairs, and explorers stocked up on essential supplies. Deepwater snorkeling adds a marine dimension to this historical journey.

PM: Commence an exciting exploration with a wet landing at Puerto Egas. This unique site in Santiago Island promises a nature walk, a glimpse into salt mines, and a visit to the fur seal grotto. Dive into the vibrant underwater world with shallow-water snorkeling, complementing the rich experience on land. The dark sand beaches of this port, also known as James Bay, set the stage for an unforgettable morning.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM/PM: Explore the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, home to four mangrove species extending from the shore into the lagoon. Witness sea turtles swimming in the calm waters, and observe fish, rays, and small sharks below. Conclude your trip with a final snorkeling experience.

Later, a dinghy will transport you and your luggage to Baltra. From there, take the airport shuttle, accompanied by your guide, who will assist you at the check-in counters in the departure hall.

• Activity:Hiking. Departure.
• Meal:Breakfast.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Upon arrival, you’ll take care of your Galapagos National Park entrance fee. To help preserve this incredible environment, a quick luggage inspection ensures we keep it free from any foreign substances.

PM: Sail to North Seymour Island, situated north of Baltra. Expect a dry landing and engage in nature walks across the rocky coast. Along the 1.25 mi (about 2 km) trail, you’ll encounter colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds.

• Activity:Arrival. Hiking.
• Meal:Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Lobos Island was named after the two species of sea lions that inhabit it, those related to the California sea lions, and those related to the ones in Antarctica. Explore the island’s protected channel, offering fantastic snorkeling opportunities in its pristine waters.

PM: Located in the northwestern part of San Cristóbal Island, Witch Hill features a sprawling white-sand beach. The eroded tuff cone, locally known as Cerro Brujo, stands at the beach’s beginning near the landing point. The bay’s calm and shallow waters make this an ideal snorkeling site, especially for beginners. A couple of hours off the western shore of San Cristóbal, a striking rock juts out of the water vertically. Kicker Rock is also a great place to snorkel!

• Activity:Hiking. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: This day is for exploring Floreana Island. Champion Islet is a snorkeler’s paradise, home to sea lions, colorful fish, and even sea turtles. Cormorant Point offers a unique beach situated between two volcanic cones with olive-green sand, resulting from a high concentration of olivine crystals.

PM: Post Office Bay is renowned for its 18th-century barrel mail system, where visitors continue the tradition by leaving and delivering mail. The site also features a scenic beach for snorkeling. Baroness Viewpoint is named after the enigmatic Baroness Eloise von Wagner, who vanished in the 1930s, leaving behind tales of adventure and intrigue.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Embark on an adventure to the stunning Gardner Bay, which offers a picturesque white-sand beach where a bustling sea lion colony resides. Take a leisurely walk or dive into the crystal-clear waters for a swim with playful sea lion pups. Keep an eye out for inquisitive mockingbirds adding charm to the beach. This is the perfect spot for snorkeling!

PM: Explore the trail to Suárez Point, where sightings of blue-footed boobies, albatrosses, and Nazca boobies await. This island serves as the primary breeding ground for nearly all of the world’s 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses. Don’t miss the famous blowhole, spraying seawater into the air, adding excitement to this enchanting site!

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Explore the lush vegetation in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to see unique zones. Your visit to Rancho Las Primicias provides an excellent opportunity to observe Galapagos giant tortoises up close in their natural habitat.

PM: Return to Puerto Ayora for a visit to the Fausto Llerena Interpretation Center, inside the Charles Darwin Research Station. The center is dedicated to educating visitors about ongoing scientific research and conservation initiatives. It highlights the importance of responsible tourism by illustrating the environmental challenges faced by the Islands. The day concludes with dinner and our nightly orientation back on the yacht.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: South Plaza, though petite, boasts vibrant hues, becoming a canvas of colors depending on the season. Encounter lively sea lion colonies, marine and land iguanas, and a myriad of birds gracefully navigating the cliffs. Top off the excursion by strolling down the entire beach.

PM: Santa Fe, a perennial favorite among Galapagos enthusiasts, caters to diverse tastes. The island’s landscape is a vision: turquoise waters cradling giant prickly pear cactus forests. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Santa Fe hosts the largest variety of endemic wildlife in the Galapagos. Activities abound, with options ranging from hiking to snorkeling and diving, ensuring a fulfilling exploration for every tourist.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM: Experience deepwater snorkeling during a visit to Bartolomé Island, involving a dry landing and a nature walk. Despite its desolate landscape with sparse vegetation, Bartolomé is the most visited and photographed island in the Galapagos. The island features an extinct volcano and a stunning array of red, orange, green, and glistening black volcanic formations, with the iconic tuff cone known as Pinnacle Rock as its standout feature.

PM: Located near Santiago Island, Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat) islet boasts crystal-clear blue waters where boats anchor. Begin your exploration with a stroll along the stunning beach, where vibrant red Sally Lightfoot crabs and marine iguanas abound. Renowned for its snorkeling opportunities, Sombrero Chino invites you to discover the rich marine life beneath its waves.

• Activity:Hiking. Exploring. Snorkeling.
• Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
• Accommodation:Double or single cabins.

AM/PM: Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Mosquera Islet, a hidden gem nestled between Baltra and North Seymour islands. This extraordinary reef, born out of a powerful uprising, stretches across a mere 160 meters at its narrowest point. Prepare to be captivated by the delightful presence of diverse shorebirds and snorkel among its abundant sea lion population. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional sighting of Orcas.

Later, a dinghy will transport you and your luggage to Baltra. From there, take the airport shuttle, accompanied by your guide, who will assist you at the check-in counters in the departure hall.

• Activity:Hiking. Snorkeling. Departure.
• Meal:Breakfast.