galapagos evolution cruise

Evolution | Galapagos Yacht

Our CEO Andre Robles visited the Guayaquil shipyard to inspect boats and enjoyed a private tour of his boat. In the company of Mrs. Dolores Diez, he was shown all details. Galapagos' cruise industry admires her strength and spirit at senior age. Watching the silver lady carry matresses, and work side by side with her crew and workers is a testament to the incredible amount of care and attention that went into maintaining this yacht. Each guest is treated with the same respect and care, ensuring they have a wonderful vacation.

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Quasar Evolution Yacht

Follow in Darwin’s footsteps through the Galapagos Islands aboard the ultimate expedition vessel

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You already have a vision for your Galapagos bucket-list trip, filled with crystal-clear waters, exotic creatures, delicious Ecuadorian bites, and the perfect balance of activity and relaxation. Imagine all of that—without the crowds.

Your dream trip doesn’t have to be a distant scene any longer. The Evolution Yacht gets you up close and personal to the wildlife you’re seeking, while delivering an unparalleled onboard experience of spacious privacy and luxury. When you explore the Galapagos Islands on a safari-style yacht, it’s everything you hope it will be—but better, because our small-group approach makes Darwin’s paradise your own.

Learn from Quasar’s top Naturalist Guides as you cruise the islands the way they were meant to be enjoyed: as a natural wonder, not just a sightseeing destination.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST

Leave your worries at home. On your Galapagos getaway, your every wish will be granted by a caring crew, master chef, and passionate Guides. It’s a team you’ll want to write home about.

Aboard the Evolution, you’ll never have to second guess your safety either. With a doctor and infirmary on board, every age and stage of adventurer is covered.

Capacity: 32 Guests Crew Capacity: 21 Doctor Onboard: 1 Guest to Guide Ratio: 10 to 1 Number of Staterooms & Suites: 16 Cruise Director: 1 Length: 58.5m (192 ft) Beam: 8.9m (29 ft) Last Renovation: 2017 View Deck Plan    |    View Suites & Stateroom Sizes

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Aboard the Evolution, you’ll find wonder-seekers and wildlife-lovers like you who want to travel the non-touristy way. (Don’t be surprised if they become lifetime friends.)

On the Evolution Yacht, you can expect more from sea to shore. Think: more space, more comfort, more friendship. Every aspect is designed to make sure your Galapagos journey exceeds expectations—even the nourishing cuisine is carefully crafted to fuel your adventure. Think of the Evolution luxury Yacht as a floating 5-star hotel, where every detail (down to the Ecuadorian coffee) helps you get the most out of Galapagos. With our family-style service, you’re free to sip, savor, and relax.

Snorkeling with a thousand dolphins. Tracking giant tortoises in the wild. Kayaking alongside Galapagos penguins. A typical day you can look forward to on a safari-style yacht adventure. It’s a trip you’ll want to take again and again.

Celebrate your freedom chapter! Strike the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure to make the most of your well-earned getaway.

Get more value out of your vacation days with expertly-planned island itineraries and add-ons to go deeper into South America while you’re at it.

Bond with every generation in this pristine paradise, while learning from the best Guides in Galapagos. Kayaking, snorkeling, stargazing—smiles are free.

Fit right in with fellow Guests who travel with more meaning. The Evolution is designed for the ultimate blend of privacy and new friends (including sea lions).

Make your getaway exclusive to your select Guests with a crewed yacht charter of the Evolution. Galapagos family reunion or destination wedding anyone?

From US$ 8,950 per person

view itinerary in brief REQUEST A DETAILED ITINERARY

From US$ 17,005 per person

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• 2024-2025 DATES
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• STARLINK WI-FI

You’ll be happy to hear that you can’t go wrong.

Our Evolution yacht itinerary options are not better or worse–they are simply different. Each guarantees authentic experiences and lifetime memories.

What is the right length of time for a yacht safari? One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when visiting the Galapagos is simply not leaving enough time to experience the islands to the fullest. We’ve crafted a just-right 8 day/7 night and 14 day/15 night itinerary options to maximize your time for exploration, breathtaking wildlife encounters, and optimal relaxation.

8 Days / 7 Nights Itineraries Over the course of 30+ years of Galapagos experience, Quasar has crafted two 7 night/ 8 day itineraries of equal quality in terms of site visitations, expedition activities, scenery, and wildlife encounters. Join us for a week of discovery through the lens of Darwin.

15 Days / 14 Nights Itinerary For those time-privileged travelers seeking deeper Galapagos immersion, we offer a 14 day/15 night itinerary. This expedition covers the entire archipelago, ensuring no experience is left a mystery. Guests enjoy a higher chance of encountering the rare species that inspired Darwin’s brilliant works.

In 2012, Galapagos National Park began requiring all cruise organizations to wait two weeks before visiting the same landing site. This regulation was introduced to disperse boats more evenly and lighten the environmental load for the Park’s 80+ visitor sites, and resulted in 2-3 cruise itineraries for every ship in Galapagos.

One of our Galapagos experts will happily offer itinerary guidance and answer questions about the journeys we offer.

• Walks & Hikes (WH) =
• Snorkeling (SN) =
• Kayaking (KY) =
• Panga Ride (PR) =
• Paddle Boarding (PB) =

• Paddle Boarding (PB)

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Hear What Past Guests Are Saying About The Evolution Yacht

Certain island visitor sites limit the number of Guests allowed at a time. Here's where the Evolution Yacht shines. As the maximum size allowed (32 Guests), we ensure your small group can explore these exclusive sites together, without the need to split up like the larger ships require. That means more time for activities, more time spent in Darwin’s paradise.

The Evolution’s ideal size offers more spacious cabins, added stability, and even an onboard infirmary. From unobstructed views to 360-degree deck space, you’ll have a front row seat to flightless cormorant courtship dances and dolphin races. Our secret lies in finding the sweet spot.

Unforgettable meals are included in your authentic Galapagos experiences. Three meals a day are carefully prepared by master chefs who cater to every craving and dietary need. Plus, appetizers and snacks to rival your 5 o’clock favorites.

Our wine selection? A cut above. Reminisce about your adventurous days and take in the sunset from the yacht lounge. Mingle with other like-minded travelers for an even more memorable adventure—don’t be surprised if they become friends for life.

Quasar partners with chefs and service aficionados who are not only celebrated in the food industry, but who celebrate food itself. Taste their culinary passion and years of worldly experience in the subtle details of every memorable meal.

Local culture is the soul of our menus and culinary experiences. Our chefs collaborate with Ecuadorian producers and farmers to deliver unparalleled, nourishing meals. From coffee beans to saffron and honey, we seek out the best of Galapagos and beyond.

Real People. Insider Knowledge.

• COMPLIMENTARY PLANNING CALLS AROUND YOUR SCHEDULE
• FRIENDLY TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
• ENGLISH & SPANISH SPEAKING

With expert end-to-end planning support, you can rest assured that your trip will be smooth as silk.

During a complimentary call, our Galapagos Expedition Designers will answer your every question, suggest or arrange trip add-ons, and recommend the best bucket-list itinerary. Don’t sweat the details—that’s our job.

BOOK A CALL WITH THEM

Get in touch for a complimentary consultation

• Book a Call or Fill Out a Short Form
• We will book you in for a complimentary consultation
• This consultation can be as short or as long as needed
• We are available Monday - Friday from 9AM - 8PM EST

Work with a specialist to plan your perfect trip

• During your consultation will go through any questions you have
• We will discuss our Galapagos Itineraries in detail
• We will guide past common mistakes made by most travelers

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime

• Our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way
• We will make sure all your special requirements are taken care of
• You'll return home having experienced the most fulfilling adventure of your life

Quasar As Seen On:

Explore Top Cruise Suites - Grace Kelly Suite

Condé Nast Traveler: Best Expedition Cruise Line 2023

Travel+Leisure: The World's Best Awards 2023

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EXPLORE TRIP EXTENSIONS

Availability for the departure dates shown below can change daily and even hourly. Please contact us for up to date availability, or to place a courtesy hold on your space. Click this link for ways to contact us .

Note on Dates: Evolution’s 15 Day Darwin’s Legacy itinerary is a back to back combination of the two 8 Day itineraries above. It can begin on any of the dates above and will run for two weeks, from Saturday to Saturday.

Availability aboard Evolution yacht changes moment to moment. For the latest pricing and availability we invite you to call us, fill out a contact form or start a live chat session.

Because of her limited number of cabins and her high demand, we are happy to place a courtesy hold on available Evolution cabins for you as you gather additional information and sort out the details.

Quasar's 2024 Evolution Cruise Rates include Galapagos National Park Fees, Open Bar (excluding Premium brand), and Wi-Fi . Rates are per person in USD for 8 or 15-day cruises, valid from January 1 through December 31, 2024.

Quasar's 2025 Evolution Cruise Rates include Galapagos National Park Fees, Open Bar (excluding Premium brand), and Wi-Fi . Rates are per person in USD for 8 or 15-day cruises, valid from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

A complimentary Wi-Fi package is available for all Quasar Guests who travel aboard Evolution Yacht.

This complimentary package limits the use of Wi-Fi & Internet Service to specific areas of the yacht and under a fixed schedule each day. There are also plans available for purchase that make Wi-Fi available 24 hours a day and offer higher download and upload speeds. Please inquire with our Galapagos Expedition Designers for details.

Important Notes: Internet connectivity in the Galapagos maybe intermittent at times during our itineraries mainly due to satellite coverage and climate issues, which affect all Galapagos vessels. Continuous connectivity to communication applications such as Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, Google Meetings or others are affected by satellite coverage, climate, and network saturation.

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Built in the style of the vessels from the golden age of travel, the Evolution Galapagos features the look of the roaring 1920s on the exterior mixed with contemporary interior décor and modern amenities. The roomy 200-foot ship is home to just 16 staterooms for 32 guests, ensuring that everyone has ample space to relax and enjoy the magnificent views offered from every deck and stateroom.

Life Aboard The Evolution Ship

As you board the Evolution, the pampering begins right away. An 18-member crew, plus a dedicated cruise director, will do everything possible to make your time on the ship a peaceful, joyful experience. The barman stands ready to serve you a signature cocktail, which you will undoubtedly want to enjoy on the sundeck.

At the top of the ship, this outdoor space features lounge chairs, a hot tub, and a bird’s eye view of the marine life below. For breakfast and lunch, enjoy buffet-style meals. When it is time for dinner, elegantly-prepared meals, served in either the interior dining room or the alfresco dining area, pay tribute to the area’s culinary traditions. Sustainably-sourced ingredients such as freshly-caught tuna, locally-grown coffee, and exotic fruits are the stars of the show, and children’s menus are available to please budding adventurers.

Before you, sadly, disembark at the end of your cruise, stop by the onboard boutique to choose a Panama hat or a beautiful scarf as a stylish souvenir of your cruise. This is also a convenient place to pick up sunscreen or insect repellent so that you do not need to make room for it in your luggage.

Excursions From Your Evolution Boat Galapagos Cruise

Thanks to itineraries designed to feature top-tier landing sites, such as Punta Espinoza on Fernandina and Prince Phillip’s Steps on Genovesa, unexpected animal encounters are always a moment away. Perhaps you will spot a Flightless Cormorant, snorkel with a sea lion, or photograph a giant tortoise.

The stargazing experiences offered on several nights throughout the cruise will have you looking at the night sky in a whole new way. Kayaking through secluded coves and mangrove estuaries is a highlight for many travelers. One of the two naturalist guides aboard the Evolution ship leads every activity. These guides each have over 15 years of experience, provide insider knowledge of the area, and hold Level III certifications, the highest available from the Galapagos National Park Authority.

Time For Exploration And Relaxation

With two itineraries of eight days and another of 15 days, cruises aboard the Evolution are longer than the trips offered by many other boats. Rather than overstuffing a short cruise with too many activities or skipping important locations, an Evolution cruise allows you to fall in love with everything that the Galapagos Islands offer at a leisurely pace while still leaving time for relaxation.

Whether you are a couple in love looking for a romantic getaway, a scuba diver wanting to experience the world-class diving available in the Galapagos, or a bird watcher hoping to spy a Darwin’s Finch, the Evolution offers something for everyone.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

8 Day - Footsteps Back in Time

Embarkation

AM : For this itinerary, you will be landing on the island of San Cristobal. After passing through Galapagos National Park inspection your National Park Guide will be there to greet you holding a sign with the name of your yacht on it and will accompany you on the short bus ride to the waterfront. San Cristobal was the first island Darwin visited when he arrived in the Galapagos in 1835 aboard HMS Beagle. He reported encountering a pair of giant tortoises feeding on cactus during that outing. Today the airport of this easternmost island in the chain is increasingly used as the arrival point for flights into and out of the Galapagos. The administrative capital for the province is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern shore. In 1998 the Galapagos National Park Visitor Centre opened for the benefit of islanders and travelers alike, presenting a comprehensive exhibit of the islands’ natural history, human interaction, ecosystems, flora, and fauna. It is also the place where cultural activities take place, including theatre, exhibitions, and workshops.

From the Interpretation Center, a short trail arrives at Frigate Bird Hill, where both “magnificent-frigates” and “great-frigates” can be seen in the same colony—ideal for learning to distinguish the two bird species. If your crew requires a bit more time to prepare the Evolution we may take in the Visitor Center before heading to the dock. At the dock, we board our dinghy (panga) to make the short crossing to the Evolution. You only need to bring your carry-on luggage aboard the panga as our crew will transfer the rest of your luggage to your cabin. You’ll have time to settle into your new home for the week before assembling on deck to review safety procedures and coming events with your Galapagos National Park Guide. While this is taking place the Evolution will start her engines and set out to the first landing site.

PM : Heading up the coast from Wreck Bay and Puerto Baquerizo we spot Leon Dormido to the north. Also known as Kicker Rock, the spectacular formation rises 152 meters (500 feet) out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion (hence its Spanish name), but from another angle you can see that the rock is split, forming a colossal tablet and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching. We set out along the coast of San Cristobal heading northeast toward our first landing at Cerro Brujo. This inviting powdery beach beside turquoise water is a great introduction to the islands offering your first opportunity to go snorkeling with sea turtles, rays, and the archipelago’s playful ‘wolves of the sea’ i.e. sea lions.

After walking the trail in search of baby sea lions and boobies beneath the salt bushes we have a real treat in store. We change into our snorkeling gear for some swimming with sea lions! The sea lions like to dart past and then swim up to you to blow bubbles at your mask. On occasion, they have been known to leap over, and then dive in front of unsuspecting snorkelers. In short, the sea lions are real show-offs and this is the first place where you will have the opportunity to go snorkeling with them. Following our outing, you will discover that the best place to warm up from your dip is in Evolution’s oversized Jacuzzi. Our afternoon comes to a close as we head south back to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. We’ll enjoy your first Pacific sunset aboard the Evolution by celebrating happy hour atop her sky lounge where drinks are available daily along with hors d’oeuvres. A little later we gather in the main salon for the daily presentation by our guide on the next day's activates and visitor sites, before sitting down to dinner. We spend a bit more time in port this evening before setting sail for our next destination to the northwest.

South Plaza Island, Carrion Point & Mosquera

AM : South Plaza Island lies just a few hundred meters off the east coast of Santa Cruz Island and is one of the smallest, yet richest islands in the archipelago. Just over 400 feet wide, it was formed by lava upwelling from the bottom of the ocean. Our landing is in the channel between North and South Plaza, where the island tilts toward the water. South Plaza is known for its lush and diverse flora. A grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cacti, a ground cover of red sesuvium, the turquoise waters of the channel, and fiery sally lightfoot crabs against the black lava rock combine to create a colorful palate of an island to explore. One of the big attractions here is the friendly yellow land iguanas waiting for lunch to drop from a cactus in the form of a prickly pear. We follow a trail up the tilt of the island to cliffs that look out over the ocean. Swallow-tailed gulls, with red-banded eyes, nest atop the overlook where you may spot marine life such as manta rays. South Plaza has a very healthy population of sea lions including a colony of bachelors that sit atop the cliff. They unintentionally polish the surrounding rocks with the oil from their fur. We may see red-billed tropicbirds, Nazca (masked), and blue-footed boobies catching rides on the wind currents.

Between the north end of Santa Cruz Island and the Galapagos’s other airport on Baltra Island lays the narrow Itabaca Channel. The channel takes less than 5 minutes to cross by ferry. Punta Carrion juts out from the north of Santa Cruz Island to mark the southeastern entrance to the channel and the snorkeling/dive site that it gives its name. It’s time to step up your snorkeling just a bit with some real rewards. The inviting green-turquoise cove close to shore will beckon you to enter the water. Friendly cousins of the sea lion welcoming committee from yesterday will of course be there to make you feel right at home and introduce you to large schools of yellow-tail surgeon fish interwoven with large parrotfish interlopers. Creole fish and blue striped sea slugs and moray eels inhabit the spaces in the rocks. You can stay in the shallow, protected cove or venture out toward the deeper waters where white tipped-reef sharks and the occasional hammerhead inhabit the channel and tuna and red-tailed snapper pass through. Ashore you will see blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans; Galapagos herons, and great blue herons.

PM : Located between North Seymour and Baltra is the small island of Mosquera. The island consists of a long narrow stretch of white sand, rocks, and tide pools. Created by geological uplift, the island has a flat look to it rather than the conical shape of the volcanically formed islands. A stroll down the beach offers views of the brown pelicans, boobies, and colonies of sea lions that like to laze here. The tiny spit of land has one of the largest populations of sea lions in the Galapagos. Along the rocks and in the tide pools are the now-familiar sally lightfoot crabs (red lava crabs). They follow the tide eating the algae and detritus left behind. Ever aware of movement around them, the sally lightfoot is quick to escape from approaching predators, in stark contrast to the unabashed way the crabs climb over the sedentary marine iguanas.

A short distance to the east of Mosquera you will notice a small table-like island and just to the south of this, an island comprised of a single volcanic cone (called a tuff cone). The larger island is known as Daphne Major and the smaller table island is Daphne Minor. We will be navigating close by the larger of the two islands, Daphne Major. Though Daphne is just a short distance from Baltra, with its airport, the Galapagos National Park restricts visits here. Because her shores are teeming with life, especially birds, we will cruise past her shores for a look. The island has been of central focus to scientific researchers and featured in The Beak of the Finch, the Pulitzer Prize-winning non-fiction book about the work done by biologists Paul & Rosemary Grant. We will not only see finches but short-eared owls, masked boobies, and Galapagos martins as we pass along her shores. Our day ends aboard the Evolution’s sky lounge as we raise our glasses to the Pacific sunset. Our next landing is just off the southeastern shore of Santiago Island looming to the northeast.

Chinese Hat Islet & James Bay

AM : Tiny Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat) Island is named for the resemblance its shape has to a traditional Chinese Coolie’s hat. Today’s visitor site is off-limits to larger groups and day boats, making Sombrero Chino, along with Daphne Major, one of the least visited sites in the central islands. The island lies just off the southeastern tip of the large nearby island of Santiago; separated by a narrow channel that makes for very calm, protected waters. Our landing site is a tiny crescent-shaped cove with a sandy white beach cradled between black lava rocks and the crystal turquoise waters of the channel. A sea lion colony likes to rest on the warm white sands, while the rockier sections of the coast are alive with fiery colored sally lightfoot crabs. Marine iguanas sun themselves atop the rocks after foraging for algae in the channel. American oystercatchers stalk the tide pools stabbing at shellfish with their bright orange beaks.

A quarter-mile (400 meters) trail sets off into the island’s volcanic interior to explore its rock formations, including excellent examples of pahoehoe lava resembling black rock ropes. The area is inhabited by ground-hugging red sesuvim plants and curious lava lizards. Back at the cove, you will not only have another opportunity to snorkel with sea lions, but rockier sections of the coastline are inhabited by Galapagos penguins that dart past unsuspecting snorkelers. You’ll also have a chance to see the penguins during a panga ride. Galapagos penguins are the only species of penguin you’ll find living north of the nearby equator. Paddlers will have the opportunity to kayak here in the areas that are not off-limits (indicated by National Park Signs).

PM : In the early afternoon, we set out west, making our way along the length of Santiago’s dramatic southern coastline before turning north up her western shore as we make for James Bay (Puerto Egas). This location offers access to three unique sites. One landing is on a black beach with intriguing eroded rock formations inland. A trail crosses the dry interior eastward and rises to the rim of an extinct volcanic crater; cracks within it allow seawater to seep in, which then dries to form salt deposits that have been mined in the past. Darwin describes his visit to South James Bay in Voyage of the Beagle. Another path leads south, where hikers are treated to a series of crystal- clear grottos formed of broken lava tubes. These are home to sea lions and tropical fish. This is the best place in the islands to see fur sea lions as they laze on the rocks by the grottos. Further to the north, another landing and path lead to a series of inland lagoons, home to flamingos.

Birders coming to James Bay will have the opportunity to spot vermillion flycatchers, Galapagos hawks, and the tool-wielding woodpecker finch. Puerto Egas is a good spot for taking pictures—the light for photography is perfect at sunset that lights up the distinct rock layers that form the shore. The lava and the black sand seem to catch fire and the animals acquire a surreal quality. The marine iguanas that inhabit the area resemble Samurai warriors and can easily be seen grazing on seaweed in the more shallow pools near the grottos. James Bay is a snorkeling site that is accessed from the shore instead of a dinghy. The sandy beach slopes off into a rocky bottom where a multitude of sea turtles like to hide by blending in with the rocks. But these rocks move and will swim right up to you. At certain times of the year, large schools of golden rays and spotted eagle rays also glide by. Both fur sea lions and California sea lions occasionally pass through as well. Tonight we set sail fairly early for our journey to Tower Island to the far northwest of the archipelago.

Darwin Bay & Prince Phillip’s Steps

AM : Tower Island could serve as a film set for a remote secret submarine base. The southwestern part of the island is an ocean-filled caldera ringed by the outer edges of a sizeable and mostly submerged volcano. The island sits to the northwest, slightly removed from the Galapagos archipelago. It is also known as Bird Island, a name it lives up to in a spectacular way. Landing on the white coral sands of Darwin Bay and walking up the beach, you will be surrounded by the bustling activity of great frigate birds. Puffball chicks and their proud papas crowd the surrounding branches, while yellow-crowned herons and lava herons feed by the shore. Farther along you will discover a stunning series of sheltered pools set into a rocky outcrop.

Watch your step for marine iguanas, lava lizards, and Galapagos doves that blend with the trail. The trail beside the pools leads up to a cliff overlooking the ocean filled caldera, where pairs of swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls in the world, can be seen nesting at the cliff’s edge. Lava gulls and pintail ducks ride the sea breezes nearby. A brief panga ride brings us to the base of those same cliffs to reveal the full variety of bird species sheltering in the ledges and crevices created by the weathered basalt. Among them, red-billed tropicbirds enter and leave their nests trailing exotic kite-like tails. This is also an intriguing place to go deep-water snorkeling. Tower offers two very different snorkeling experiencing along the cliffs that form the inner part of the caldera. The center of the caldera is very deep and attracts hammerheads and large manta rays which sometimes patrol the western edge of the caldera that is more open to the sea. You can snorkel here gazing down into the depths where you just may spot these large animals if you are fortunate. But don’t worry, if you don’t really want to see them there is an equally amazing and far more sheltered snorkeling experience for you across the bay.

PM : Across the bay is Prince Phillip’s Steps, named for a visit by the British Monarch in 1964. The shoreline here falls off less sharply into the depths and is far more protected. The first thing you will notice when snorkeling here is very large tropical fish. These are warm water fish feeding off cold water nutrients. You’ll find the full assortment here including an oversize parrot, unicorn, angel, and hogfish along with schools of perch, surgeonfish, and various types of butterflyfish. Hiding in and around the rocky shoreline that drops off into the caldera you will also see a rainbow assortment of wrasse, basslet, anthias, and tang. This is the place to bring your underwater tropical fish identification chart. There are some special treats to be found here including occasional visits by fur sea lions. This area of the bay is also excellent for some kayaking in the calm waters close to the shore to observe nesting birds.

Prince Phillip’s actual steps are a 25-meter (81-foot) stairway leading up to a narrow stretch of land that opens out onto the plateau surrounding Darwin Bay. It extends to form the north side of the island. Red-footed boobies wrap their webbed feet around branches to precariously perch in the bushes, and, in contrast, their masked-booby cousins dot the surface of the scrublands beyond. Crossing through the sparse vegetation, you will come to a broad lava field that extends toward the sea—this forms the north shore of the island. Storm petrels flutter out over the ocean in swarms, then return to nest in the cracks and tunnels of the lava field but not without hazard. Short-eared owls lay in camouflaged wait and make their living feeding off the returning petrels. Remember to watch Tower’s inner bay at sunset as you might spot a giant manta ray.

North Seymour Island & Santa Fe Island

AM : North Seymour Island was lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. Cliffs only a few meters high form much of the shoreline, where swallow-tailed gulls sit perched in ledges. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing, usually without leaves, waiting for the rain to bring them into bloom. This island is teeming with life! You might have to give way to a passing sea lion or marine iguana. Blue-footed boobies nest on either side of the trail where mating pairs perform their courtship dance. You are likely to see fluffy white chicks peeking out from beneath their protective mothers. The trail follows the eastern shore along the beach. You may be fortunate to witness flocks of brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies hunting schools of fish. The boobies, which look so comical on land, are ideally adapted as dive bombers and easily pierce the water, zeroing in on their targeted prey. Frigate birds with wingspans of up to 5 feet soar overhead and all around. They have named for the way that the trim of their wings in flight is reminiscent of the square-rigged sailing warship. Not coincidentally frigate birds are also called Man O’ War birds and they live up to that name in a literal way when they target boobies, pelicans, and other birds to steal their catch. Because the frigates are pelagic, they lack the ability to take off from the water, so they do better at snatching fish from the surface or simply stealing them. They also target marine iguanas and young baby sea turtles. The trail turns east and inland to reveal the nesting stronghold of the frigates. Here you can see males with large, bright red, inflamed throat sacks known as gular pouches, all done in an effort to attract females. Your guide will point out the difference between the Magnificent, or Man O’ War frigates, and their Great frigate bird cousins. Large puff-ball frigate bird chicks inhabit nests, waiting for their parents to return with a meal. Even at this young age they possess long hooked beaks and act defiant when they feel threatened. You will also get a closer look at the feathers of the proud parents and notice their iridescent quality and deep green tinge.

Another inhabitant along the trail is the yellow land iguana. The species was originally introduced to the North Seymour in 1932 by Captain Alan Hancock and his crew from Baltra with the aim of rescuing the creatures from the poor conditions left by goats and other feral animals. The iguanas colonized the island without a problem. The original colony disappeared from Baltra when it became a US military base in WWII. In 1980 Charles Darwin Station began a breeding program using some of the animals found on Seymour and successfully reintroduced their prodigy to both islands. Today the population on Seymour is roughly 600 and on Baltra 1,500. Our snorkeling site at North Seymour also attracts scuba divers. You have a chance to see many types of rays here including marble rays, golden eagle rays, spotted eagle rays, stingrays, and even manta rays. Dormitories of white-tipped reef sharks sleep on the bottom while schools of king angelfish and yellow-tailed surgeonfish swarm the rocky shoreline passing the occasional parrot and damselfish. Some of the rocks are actually well-disguised scorpionfish. Large schools of tightly packed blue and gold snappers, grunts, and jacks are usually found plying these waters. Sea lions pay visits from both Seymour and nearby Mosquera Island as sea turtles and the occasional hammerhead shark can been seen down in the depths. Creole fish, the color of red salsa, hieroglyphic hawkfish, with neon-like etchings on their flanks, and burrfish, which look a bit like a swimming shoebox with a cartoon face also inhabit the region.

PM : Santa Fe offers one of the more beautiful and sheltered coves on the islands. Its turquoise lagoon is protected by a peninsula of tiny islets forming an ideal anchorage. The island lies southeast of Santa Cruz Island within sight of Puerto Ayora. Geologically it is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago and for many years was thought to be a product of an uplift event. Through satellite imagery, it has been possible to determine the island’s volcanic origins. A wet landing on a sandy white beach brings us into contact with one of many sea lion colonies. Bulls contend for the right of being beach master, while smaller males mask as females to make stealthy mating moves. Galapagos hawks are sometimes easily approached, perched atop salt bushes. An ascending trail leads toward the cliffs, where a dense thicket stands to the inland side of the island. The cliffside provides an expansive view of the ocean. You will be struck by the forest of giant prickly pear cactus found here that live up to their name, with tree-sized trunks! These are the largest of their kind in the Galapagos.

At the top of the trail, our goal is to spot one of the large species of land iguana endemic to Santa Fe. Beige to chocolate brown in color with dragon-like spines, these big iguanas truly resemble dinosaurs. An indigenous species of rice rat also inhabits the thicket, and lucky hikers may spot harmless Galapagos snakes. After the hike, there is nothing more inviting than snorkeling in the calm waters of the bay where sea lions play, sea turtles swim, and tropical fish hide amidst the islets that form the natural reef. Santa Fe offers a more advanced kayaking route along its northern shore that ends at sea caves and is subject to conditions.

Post Office Bay, Punta Cormorant & Champion Islet

AM : Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a self-proclaimed Baroness among them - who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in death and mystery. Today roughly a hundred Ecuadorians inhabit the island. In 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island’s post office, to send letters home on passing ships. The tradition continues to this day, simply by dropping a postcard into the barrel without a stamp. The catch is you must take a postcard from the barrel and see that it gets to the right place. That is how the system began and continues to this day. Some claim it works better than the official Ecuadorian post office. You’ll have a chance to continue the traditions by sending your own card and picking up others. Continuing a bit farther inland at Post Office Bay you will have the opportunity to enter the underworld of Floreana in the form of a lava tube. The lava tube descends fairly deep into the earth back toward the ocean, where you can swim in a subterranean grotto beneath the tide. Bring a good waterproof flashlight. Snorkeling in Post Office Bay offers choice encounters with waiting sea turtles and tropical fish. We return to the Evolution for lunch and a siesta.

Our next landing is further along the shore to the northeast. On route, we pass within view of Baroness Point in an area of mangrove-lined lagoons. Eloise Wehrborn de Wagner-Bosquet, the self-proclaimed Baroness (of Floreana) frequented this overlook, but we will leave the rest of her intriguing story to your Galapagos guide. Punta Cormorant offers two highly contrasting beaches; the strand where we land is composed of volcanic olivine crystals, giving it a greenish tint that glitters in the sun. From here you’ll notice the small cinder cone that forms the point. Our landing is just to the west of the cinder cone where a trail crosses the neck of an isthmus to a beach of very fine white sand known as Flour Beach. Flour Beach was formed by the erosion of coral skeletons. Between the two beaches, in a basin formed by the surrounding volcanic cones, is a hyper-saline lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts, and other wading birds. We stop at the lagoon and then continue on the trail to Four Beach. Be careful not to wade into the tide with bare feet! If you stand at the edge of the water and look into the tidal area you will soon notice that the silty surf is rife with rays. Sea turtles also surf the waves off the beach. We return to our yacht and set out to our snorkeling destination as we don wetsuits while making our way around Punta Cormorant.

PM : Not far from the north shore of Floreana is the tiny islet known as Champion. Champion is considered one of the top snorkeling sites in the Galapagos offering prime underwater sea lion interactions. Dolphins are frequently seen near the shore along with humpback whales who like the bay off Flour Beach. As you swim with the sea lions you will be surrounded by an assortment of tropical fish including yellowtail grunts, amberjacks, and schools of king angel. You may spot sleepy white-tipped reef sharks hugging the bottom. Sea turtles glide by, while torpedo-like Galapagos penguins can also be encountered in the waters off Champion. Alternatively, we may snorkel at Devil’s Crown which is located some 250 meters (700 ft) north of Punta Cormorant. The crown is an old submerged volcanic cone that has been worn down by waves. Devil’s Crown is home to a myriad of marine species including several species of corals, sea urchins, and many other creatures including a great number of fish species, making this place one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos. The eroded crater walls form a popular roosting site for seabirds including boobies and pelicans. The snorkeling begins outside the crater to the southeast, where a swift current will take you for a ride along the north side of the crown and right into the middle. Relax, enjoy the ride, and let the current do the work. After the ride keeps your eyes open for spotted eagle rays and golden rays that like to swim near the crown. Once back aboard the Evolution, you’ll want to soak in the warm Jacuzzi after peeling off your wetsuit and then retire for hors d’ouevres and drinks to enjoy the sunset.

Darwin Station & Santa Cruz Highlands

AM : Santa Cruz, our next stop, is the second-largest island in the Galapagos and something of a hub for the archipelago. Baltra, where one of the archipelago’s two airports is found, is on the far north end of the island. Puerto Ayora, located in the south of this large, round volcanic island is the seaside economic center of the Galapagos, focused on fishing and tourism. The little port town offers restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, internet cafés, and a place to get your laundry done! This morning we visit Puerto Ayora, home to both the Galapagos National Park Service Headquarters and Charles Darwin Research Station, the center of the great restorative efforts taking place in the park, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here we visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding & Rearing Program run by the research station, which began by rescuing the remaining 14 tortoises on the island of Española in 1970. This program has restored the population of animals there to over 1,000 today. You will see many of these animals, with their sweet ET necks and faces; from hatchlings to juveniles to large, distinguished individuals. This is where famed tortoise, Lonesome George, lived out his last days as the last of his particular race of tortoise.

PM : A highlight of any trip to the archipelago is a visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where the sparse, dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our afternoon destination is the Wild Tortoise Reserve where we will have chances to track and view these friendly ancient creatures in their natural setting. This extends to the adjacent pasturelands, where farmers give tortoise safe quarter in exchange for allowing paying visitors to see them. When viewing the tortoise in their natural setting you are literally scratching the surface because there is another world awaiting you beneath the highlands. Lava tubes are formed when the outer surface of a lava flow cools, insulating the interior lava, which continues to flow on leaving a hollow tube as the result. The tubes become covered with earth over time and the result is a perfectly formed underground tunnel courtesy of Mother Nature. A wooden stairway descends to the mouth of the arched entrance to one of these underground passages and continues to the narrow opening that marks its exit. There are lights to show you the way but it’s also a good idea to bring a flashlight. The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins). These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes.

The contrast between the marine desert coast and the verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and you can easily encounter rain even when the sun is shining half an hour away at the coast. Los Gemelos is surrounded by a Scalesia forest. Scalesia is endemic to Galapagos and many endemic and native species call the forest home. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher. We return to Puerto Ayora with time for shopping, visiting an internet café, or simply enjoying this little port town near the edge of the world.

Disembarkation

AM : This last morning of our visit to the Galapagos we visit Black Turtle Cove. Located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz, the cove is a living illustration of how mangroves alter the marine environment to create a rich and unique habitat. Four species of mangrove crowd from the shore out into the lagoon, which stretches almost a mile inland. As we drift through the quiet waters in our dinghy, we are likely to see spotted eagle rays and cow nosed or golden rays, which swim in a diamond formation. White-tipped reef sharks can be seen beneath the boat and Pacific green sea turtles come to the surface for air and to mate. Sea birds, including brown pelicans, blue herons, and lava herons, come to feed in the cove which has also been declared a “Turtle Sanctuary”.

It’s time to begin your journey home as we set sail for nearby Baltra Island. During WWII the island was a US Air Force base and one can still see the remnants of the old foundations left behind from that era once ashore. It doesn’t take long for the Evolution to navigate north along Baltra’s western shore to the island’s port. Don’t worry about your bags, your guide will instruct you on how to prepare your luggage and have it ready for pick up in your cabin. Our crew will see to transporting your luggage ashore where you will reunite with it at the airport. All you need to do is take along your carry-on luggage in the panga for the short crossing to shore. Once there a bus will pick us up for the 5-minute drive to the airport. Your guide will be there to make sure you are checked in on the proper flight. This is your last chance to purchase souvenirs in the Galapagos and the airport offers an assortment of shops where you can purchase everything from baseball caps and t-shirts to animal figurines, jewelry, and much more; all with a Galapagos theme. There is one final checkpoint before you enter the waiting area from which you will board your flight. Almost all flights to the mainland stop in Guayaquil and continue on to Quito so make sure you know where to get off the plane. We say farewell to the Galapagos as you begin your journey home, or on to other destinations like the Ecuadorian highlands, Amazon, or nearby Peru.

8 Day - In the Steps of Pirates and Darwin

AM : For this itinerary, you will be landing on the island of Baltra. After passing through Galapagos National Park inspection your National Park Guide will be there to greet you, holding a sign with the name of your yacht. Your guide will accompany you on the short bus ride to the waterfront. During WWII the island of Baltra was a US Air Force base and one can still see the remnants of the old foundations left behind from that era. We transfer via panga (launch) to the waiting Evolution. The crew will see that your luggage is transferred to your cabin. At the dock, we board a dinghy (panga) to make the short crossing to Evolution. You only need to bring your carry-on luggage on the panga as our crew will transfer your luggage to your cabin. You’ll have time to settle into your new home for the week before assembling to review safety procedures and coming events with your Galapagos National Park Guide. While this is taking place the Evolution will start her engines and set off into the archipelago.

PM : Daphne Minor, a tuff cone (giant pile of compressed volcanic ash shaped like a cone), sits off the north coast of Santa Cruz Island, west of Baltra Island, and North Seymour Island. While off-limits to all but limited scientific parties going ashore, we’ve obtained permission from the National Park to navigate around the island, close by. You will have a front-row seat to witness bustling colonies of blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, magnificent frigate birds, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to observe short-eared owls and red-billed tropicbirds. This island has (natural) historic importance as a result of the husband-wife biology team of Peter and Rosemary Grant conducting a 20-year field study into the behavior and life cycles of finches as relates to Darwin’s theory of natural selection. Their work is chronicled in the Pulitzer Prize-winning book The Beak of the Finch. As the sun sets on your first day in the Enchanted Archipelago, you’ll toast to the voyage ahead with a welcome cocktail.

Punta Vicente Roca & Punta Espinoza

AM : Located at the ‘mouth’ of the head of the sea horse, which forms the northern part of the Isabela is Punta Vicente Roca. Here the remnants of an ancient volcano form two turquoise coves with a bay well protected from the ocean swells. The spot is a popular anchorage from which to take panga rides along the cliff where a partially sunken cave beckons explorers. Masked and blue-footed boobies sit perched along with the point and the sheer cliffs, while flightless cormorants inhabit the shoreline. The upwelling of coldwater currents in combination with the protection of the coves makes Punta Vicente Roca one of the archipelago’s most sought after dive spots. One cove is only accessible from the sea by way of an underwater passage. The passage opens to calm waters of the hidden cove where sea lions laze on the beach having traveled along the underwater route. The entire area of Punta Vicente Roca lies on the flank of 2,600 foot Volcano Ecuador. This is the island’s sixth largest volcano. Half of Volcano Ecuador slid into the ocean leaving a spectacular cutaway view of its caldera. The site offers deep water snorkeling where sea lions turtles, spotted eagle rays, and even manta rays are the attraction. After our visit here we set off south and west across the Bolivar channel. Keep your eyes open in this best place in the islands for spotting whales.

Fernandina is the youngest and westernmost island in the Galapagos. It sits across the Bolivar Channel opposite Isabela. Our destination is Punta Espinoza, a narrow spit of land in the northeastern corner of the island, where a number of unique Galapagos species can be seen in close proximity. As our panga driver skillfully navigates the reef, Galapagos penguins show off by throwing themselves from the rocks into the water. Red and turquoise-blue crabs disperse across the lava shoreline, while blue and lava herons forage through the mangrove roots. The landing is a dry one, set in a quiet inlet beneath the branches of a small mangrove forest. A short walk through the vegetation leads to a large colony of marine iguanas, resting atop one another in friendly heaps along the rocky shoreline, spitting water to clear their bodies of salt. Nearby, sea lions frolic in a sheltered lagoon. Dominating this landscape from high overhead looms the summit of La Cumbre, 1,495 meters (4,858 feet), one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Farther down this stretch of shore, the world’s only species of flightless cormorants have established a colony near an inviting inlet frequented by sea turtles. Because these birds evolved without land predators—it was easier to feed on the squid, octopus, eel, and fish found in the ocean—the cormorants progressively took to the sea. They developed heavier, more powerful legs and feet for kicking, serpent-like necks, and fur-like plumage. Their wings are now mere vestiges. Back toward the landing and farther inland, the island’s black lava flows become more evident, forming a quiet, inner mangrove lagoon where you will spot rays and sea turtles gliding just below the surface. Galapagos hawks survey the entire scene from overhead.

PM : The snorkeling off Punta Espinoza offers some real treats, as many of the creatures you just saw on land, including the Godzilla-like marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins, and sea lions await you in the waters of the point (which incidentally was used as a set during the making of Master & Commander). A key feature of the ocean bottom here are the troughs formed by volcanic rock and ocean currents. Because these waters reach out into the Bolivar Channel they can be quite cold. Sea turtles like to hang out in the warm water of the troughs. You’ll also see marine iguanas ferrying back and forth between underwater grazing areas and their colonies onshore. This is an excellent place to see underwater iguanas munching on algae. If you are fortunate you may catch a glimpse of a flightless cormorant demonstrating its swimming abilities or watch a Galapagos penguin zip by. You will feel the difference in ocean temperature and watch the water get clearer as you move from the more protected shallow areas out into the cold rich waters of the channel. The Bolivar Channel is the very best place in the Galapagos to see dolphins and whales. On rare occasions, our groups have been able to swim with dolphins, kayak with melon-headed whales, and even spot the elusive sperm whale.

Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove

AM : Isabela is the largest island in the archipelago, accounting for half of the total landmass of the Galapagos at 4,588 square kilometers. Though narrow in places, the island runs 132 km from north to south or 82 miles. Isabela is formed from six shield volcanoes that merged into a single landmass. It is also home to the highest point in the Galapagos, Wolf Volcano at 1,707 meters (5,547 feet), and calderas of up to 20 kilometers (121⁄2 miles) across. Urbina Bay is directly west of Isabela’s Volcano Alcedo, where we will make an easy, wet landing (a hop into a few inches of water) onto a gently sloping beach. In 1954, a Disney film crew caught sight of this gleaming white strip and went to investigate. To their astonishment, three miles (5 km) of the marine reef had been uplifted by as much as 13 feet (4 meters) prior to their arrival. They discovered schools of stranded fish and other creatures in newly formed tidal pools along with the skeletons of sea turtles and sharks unable to make it to the ocean as a result of the uplift event. Alcedo erupted a few weeks later. Now visitors can walk amongst the boulder-sized dried coral heads, mollusks, and other organisms that once formed the ocean floor.

A highlight of this excursion is the giant land iguanas, whose vivid and gaudy yellow skin suggests that dinosaurs may have been very colorful indeed. Giant tortoises inhabit this coastal plain during the wet season, before migrating to the highlands when it turns dry. Our landing beach provides a nesting site for sea turtles and will also provide you with opportunities to snorkel amongst marine creatures, or just relax onshore. Here we must take care not to step on the sea turtle nests dug carefully into the sand. For those looking for snorkeling from a beach, this is the place, with tropical fish hiding amongst the rocks to the north side of the bay.

PM : We head north along the western coast of Isabela Island, to Tagus Cove, named for a British warship that moored here in 1814. Historically the cove was used as an anchorage for pirates and whalers. One can still find the names of their ships carved into the rock above our landing, a practice now prohibited. The cove’s quiet waters make for an ideal panga ride beneath its sheltered cliffs, where blue-footed boobies, brown noddies, pelicans, and noddy terns make their nests, and flightless cormorants and penguins inhabit the lava ledges. From our landing, a wooden stairway rises to the trail entrance for a view of Darwin Lake; a perfectly round saltwater crater, barely separated from the ocean but above sea level! From the air one can see that both Tagus Cove and Darwin Lake are formed from one, partially flooded, tuff cone on the eastern edge of the giant Darwin volcano. The cove is formed by a breached and flooded section of the crater with Darwin Lake forming the very center of the same cone. The trail continues around the lake through a dry vegetation zone and then climbs inland to a promontory formed by spatter cones. The site provides spectacular views back toward our anchorage, as well as to Darwin Volcano and Wolf Volcano to the north. While one does not normally think of greener pastures when planning to snorkel, that is exactly what you will find at Tagus Cove. The carpet of green algae that covers the floor of the cove gives the impression of a submerged pasture, and really that is just what it is. You can find marine iguanas grazing the algae along with numerous sea turtles gliding and munching their way along. Because the cove opens to the rich waters of the Bolivar Channel this is one of the best snorkeling sites on the island. You also have a good chance of snorkeling with underwater feathered friends including Galapagos penguins and rare flightless cormorants.

For those who want to dive deeper, there are special rewards waiting for you at 3 meters where camouflaged creatures await, including scorpionfish nestled against the outcrops and sea horses masquerading as twigs of the seaweed waving in the currents. The rare Port Jackson shark can also be found here. Kayakers can enjoy a paddle around the cove, offering excellent views of nesting birds on the cliff walls above. As we set sail north to navigate out of the channel back towards the central islands keep your eyes peeled as this is one of the best places in the islands to spot whales and dolphins that feed in these productive waters created by the upwelling of the Cromwell Current. And while you watch you can enjoy a happy hour at the Sky lounge on the upper rear deck.

Pinnacle Rock & Sullivan Bay

AM : Bartolomé is famous for Pinnacle Rock, a towering spearheaded obelisk that rises from the ocean’s edge and is the best-known landmark in the Galapagos. It served as a backdrop in the film Master & Commander. Galapagos penguins - the only species of penguin found north of the equator - walk precariously along narrow volcanic ledges at their base. Sea lions snooze on rocky platforms, ready to slide into the water to play with passing snorkelers. Below the surface, shoals of tropical fish dodge in and out of the rocks past urchins, sea stars, and anemones. A perfectly crescent sandy beach lies just to the east of the pinnacle and across a narrow isthmus another beach mirrors this one to the south. Sea turtles use both beaches and another to the west of the Pinnacle as nesting sites and can sometimes be seen wading back out into the shallow water near the shore or resting in the sand recovering from the arduous task of digging nests, laying eggs, and covering them over. Penguins like to rest atop the nearby rocks by our next landing site, about a quarter-mile east along the shore. Here the submerged walls of a tiny volcanic crater give the impression of a large fountain pool.

This dry landing is the entrance to a 600-meter (2000-foot) pathway complete with stairs and boardwalks leading to Bartolome’s summit. The route is not difficult and presents an open textbook of the islands’ volcanic origins; a site left untouched after its last eruption, where small cones stand in various stages of erosion and lava tubes form bobsled-like runs down from the summit. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Santiago Island and Sullivan Bay to the west, and far below, Pinnacle Rock, where the crystal turquoise waters of the bay cradle your yacht.

PM : Our next landing site is a short distance away to the southeast. If you created a partnership between well know glass artist Dale Chihuly and mother nature the result would be Sullivan Bay. Back in 1897, the island fired up its own internal kiln giving birth to a field of pahoehoe (“rope-like” in Hawaiian) lava reaching out into the channel toward Bartolome. The results gleam in the sun like a gigantic, obsidian sculpture. It stirs the imagination to envision the once-molten lava lighting up the earth, flowing into the sea and sending plumes of superheated steam skyrocketing into the air as pockets of gas in the flow exploded when the lava hit the water. The flow gave birth to the new land as it engulfed vegetation, leaving some plants forever etched into the earth. Today the flow stands as a great walkway gallery of abstract shapes resembling braids, curtains, and swirling fans. Brightly colored painted locusts and lava lizards punctuate the black volcanic canvas, as does the occasional finger of lava cactus and spreading carpetweed. We hike south into the flow taking time to admire the Earth’s craftwork as we proceed.

Upon our return to the black rocky coast, you may spot Galapagos penguins that dot the shore. Unlike the penguins, which mimic the lava with their color, sally lightfoot crabs stand out against the black rocks as a reminder of their once molten state. Snorkeling along the edge of the lava flow is very good for swimming with penguins and sea lions. Squadrons of spotted eagle rays pass through the channel, and sea turtles that lay their eggs on nearby Bartolome swim past, while white-tipped reef sharks patrol the bottom.

Playas Las Bachas & Rabida Island

AM : At the north end of Santa Cruz Island is Las Bachas, comprised of two sandy white-coral beaches that are are major egg-laying sites for sea turtles. The official story of how Las Bachas got its name comes from the Galapagos National Park. During WWII the US military discarded two barges on the beaches. When the first settlers to the area following the war arrived they mispronounced barges as bachas, resulting in the name. There are other explanations of how the location got its name having to do with indentations left in the sand by both egg-laying sea turtles and their departing hatchlings, but we will go with the Park’s. We go ashore the white sandy beach and are greeted by patrolling blue-footed boobies. A brief walk inland takes us to a lagoon where pink flamingos are often found along with great blue herons, common stilts, brown noddies, white-cheek pintail ducks, and migratory birds. Snorkeling today is from the beach and you can also enjoy a swim in these waters, which are typically warmer than in other places in the Galapagos.

PM : At the geologic center of the archipelago, Jervis presents an island of a different color with its deep red sandy beach and equally red towering cliffs. Even the starfish are red. The flanks of a sloping volcanic cinder-cone rise sharply from the coast and looking up one can see where the vegetation transitions from the arid zone to the wetter Scaleisia zone. A hedgerow of green saltbush frames the beach between the clear teal waters of the Pacific making for one of the more colorful islands. A noisy colony of sea lions inhabits these scarlet shores. This is also the best place in the islands to get close to nesting brown pelicans raising their chicks in precariously positioned nests atop the saltbush. A short trail inland offers observations of land birds including Galapagos dove, cactus finch, and the large ground-finch. Hidden behind the narrow strip of green saltbush is a briny lagoon frequented by flamingos. These large pink birds feed for up to 12 hours a day on the pink shrimp larva and water boatman that give them their color. We follow the trail to the left and up from the beach to the top of the rocky peninsula that juts from the island towards the north.

As we climb higher we pass through groves of prickly pear cactus, some oddly reminiscent of Mickey Mouse. The top of the overlook reveals excellent views back toward the lagoon and red sea cliffs beyond. Rabida also offers a nice kayaking route starting on the eastern side of the peninsula, then around and along with it. The route continues west past the beach, then beneath the island’s towering red cliffs. This is a great place to spot sea turtles from your kayak. They sometimes swim right up without noticing you and then dart into the depths once they see you. Make sure you stop kayaking when you reach the red diamond-shaped sign where there is a large rock where both blue footed and masked boobies like to perch. Beneath the ocean surface, Rabida offers excellent snorkeling along the shore of the little peninsula. The sea turtles you just saw topside are easier to see once you are in the water. Large schools of yellowtail surgeonfish thread through passages between the rocks. You can look for chances to swim with sea lions and penguins as well and keep your eyes open for marine iguanas grazing the underwater greenery. We’ve also have had groups watch orca right off the shore on rare occasions but this pod can also be seen elsewhere as they patrol the islands.

Highlands & Charles Darwin Station

AM : Santa Cruz, our next stop, is the second-largest island in the Galapagos and something of a hub for the archipelago. Baltra, where one of the archipelago’s two airports is found, is on the far north end of the island. Puerto Ayora, located in the south of this large, round volcanic island is the seaside economic center of the Galapagos, focused on fishing and tourism.

The little port town offers restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, internet cafés, and a place to get your laundry done! This morning we visit Puerto Ayora, home to both the Galapagos National Park Service Headquarters and Charles Darwin Research Station, the center of the great restorative efforts taking place in the park, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here we visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding & Rearing Program run by the research station, which began by rescuing the remaining 14 tortoises on the island of Española in 1970. This program has restored the population of animals there to over 1,000 today. You will see many of these animals, with their sweet ET necks and faces; from hatchlings to juveniles to large, distinguished individuals. This is where famed tortoise, Lonesome George, lived out his last days as the last of his particular race of tortoise.

PM : A highlight of any trip to the archipelago is a visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where the sparse, dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our afternoon destination is the Wild Tortoise Reserve where we will have chances to track and view these friendly ancient creatures in their natural setting. This extends to the adjacent pasturelands, where farmers give tortoise safe quarter in exchange for allowing paying visitors to see them. When viewing the tortoise in their natural setting you are literally scratching the surface because there is another world awaiting you beneath the highlands.

Lava tubes are formed when the outer surface of a lava flow cools, insulating the interior lava, which continues to flow on leaving a hollow tube as the result. The tubes become covered with earth over time and the result is a perfectly formed underground tunnel courtesy of Mother Nature. A wooden stairway descends to the mouth of the arched entrance to one of these underground passages and continues to the narrow opening that marks its exit. There are lights to show you the way but it’s also a good idea to bring a flashlight.

The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins). These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and the verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and you can easily encounter rain even when the sun is shining half an hour away at the coast. Los Gemelos is surrounded by a Scalesia forest. Scalesia is endemic to Galapagos and many endemic and native species call the forest home. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher. We return to Puerto Ayora with time for shopping, visiting an internet café, or simply enjoying this little port town near the edge of the world.

Punta Suarez, Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet

AM : Hood is the southernmost island of the archipelago, and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variation and the sheer number of fauna that greet visitors along with well known Gardner Bay. The giant tortoise was reintroduced to Hood in the 1970s and counts as one of the park’s great success stories. They reside in an off-limits area.

The quantity and variety of wildlife at Punta Suarez is remarkable. Sea lions surf the waves beyond the breakwater landing, and tiny pups are known to greet your toes upon arrival. A few steps inland is a colorful variety of marine iguana in the Galapagos. They bear distinctive red and black markings, some with a flash of turquoise running down their spine. They nap in communal piles or cling to the rocks for warmth. The trail then takes us beside the western edge of the island where masked boobies (also known as Nazca boobies) nest along the cliff’s edge. The trail descends to a rocky beach before rising to an open area where you may see a large gathering of nesting blue-foot boobies. Galapagos doves, cactus finch, and mocking birds forage nearby, unconcerned by human presence. Both lava and swallow-tailed gulls, with their red-ringed eyes, sit atop the cliffs in company with marine iguanas.

PM : The trail continues to the high cliff edge of the southern shore; below, a shelf of black lava reaches out into the surf where a blowhole shoots a periodic geyser of saltwater into the air. Further east along the cliff is the Albatross Airport where waved albatross line up to launch their great winged bodies from the cliffs, soaring out over the dramatic shoreline of crashing waves and driven spray. These are the largest birds you will see in the Galapagos with wingspans up to 2.25 m or 7.4 ft. They are the only species of albatross exclusive to the tropics. In the trees set back from the cliff is one of only two places in the world where the waved albatross nests. The 12,000 pairs that inhabit Hood Island comprise all but a tiny fraction of the world’s population of this species. Lucky visitors can watch courtship ‘fencing’ done with great yellow beaks. Large, fluffy, perfectly camouflaged chicks adorn nests on the ground nearby. The Albatross lay their eggs from April through June though they can be seen fencing long after that. Eggs take two months to hatch. Hungry chicks can eat up to 2 kg (4.4 lb) a day which keeps their parents busy. By December the chicks are fully grown and ready to set out on their own in January. Pairs mate for life.

On the northeastern shore of Hood, Gardner Bay offers a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals. You will be lured from the powdery white sand into the turquoise water for a swim, but just a little further off-shore the snorkeling by Gardner Island offers peak encounters with playful young sea lions and schools of surprisingly large tropical fish, including yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump-head parrotfish. The young sea lions like to snack and play along Gardner Island’s sea cliff. They dart up from the depths, playfully show off their skills, and then disappear. Sleepy white-tipped reef sharks can also be seen napping on the bottom. Gardner Bay and Islet also offer inviting waters for those interested in kayaking. For all who visit here, Española is a highlight of the Galapagos.

AM : San Cristobal was the first island Darwin visited when he arrived in 1835. He reported encountering a pair of giant tortoises feeding on cactus during that outing. Today the airport of this easternmost island in the chain is increasingly used as the arrival point for flights into and out of the Galapagos. The administrative capital for the province is Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the southwestern shore. Your guide will give you clear instructions on the rest of the day’s events before we go ashore. Once we arrive in the port we board a dinghy (panga) to make the short crossing to dock. In recent years a great deal of effort has gone into sprucing up the waterfront including the building of the new municipal dock. You only need to bring your day pack as the crew will pick up your luggage at your cabin and ensure that it gets to the airport, which is less than a 5-minute drive from the waterfront. In 1998 the Galapagos National Park Visitor Center opened for the benefit of islanders and travelers alike, presenting a comprehensive exhibit of the islands’ natural history, human interaction, ecosystems, flora, and fauna. This is our last stop in the islands and it is also the place where cultural activities take place, including theatre, exhibitions, and workshops.

From the Interpretation Center, a short trail arrives at Frigate Bird Hill, where both “magnificent-frigates” and “great-frigates” can be seen in the same colony—ideal for learning to distinguish the two bird species. The interpretation center will be our final stop today before departing the islands. Along with your tour of the visitor center museum, there will be time to stroll the quaint tiny port town, with time to shop for last minute souvenirs before taking the bus to the airport where you will have your last chance to make purchases in the Galapagos. There is one final checkpoint before entering the waiting area from which you will board your flight. Almost all flights to the mainland stop in Guayaquil and continue on to Quito so make sure you know where to get off the plane. We say farewell to the Galapagos as you begin your journey home, or on to other destinations like the Ecuadorian highlands, Amazon, or nearby Peru.

Accommodations

Social areas.

Suites & Cabins

Deluxe stateroom.

The Deluxe Stateroom features a phone for internal communications, a spacious closet, and a safety deposit box for your items. The room has air conditioning for your comfort, and the private hot water bathroom comes with a hairdryer, an amenities kit, and a vanity kit.

Premium Stateroom

This ample-sized room comes with a telephone for internal communications. It features a closet, a safety deposit box, and multiple electrical outlets for your devices. The beautiful bathrooms have hot water and all the necessary amenities you will need to stay refreshed.

The Evolution suites come with a spacious wardrobe to fit all your clothes and luggage. They feature ocean-view windows, which let in adequate natural lighting. You will find all the amenities you need like a biodegradable shampoo, conditioner, and hairdryer in the gorgeous private bathrooms.

Master Suite

The incredibly spacious suite features ocean-view windows to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Galapagos Island. The rooms are air-conditioned with ample luggage and clothing space. The private bathrooms have a walk-in shower and an amenities kit for the guests' convenience.

Technical Information

• Air conditioning
• Deck shower
• Pool / Jacuzzi
• Massage room
• Lecture room
• WIFI available
• Kosher Meals
• Medical staff
• Satellite phone
• Diving platform
• Snorkeling gear
• Kayaks / Canoes

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• All non-charter prices displayed are PER PERSON and dynamic
• Children must be over 5 years old to cruise (on the departure date - not applicable to charters)
• Children under 15 years old receive 15% discount (maximum of three children per family - not valid during high season)
• Single supplement rises from 50% in Staterooms to 75% in Suites
• Single supplement rises to 100% in high season for both Staterooms and Suites
• Triple occupancy is available in selected Stateroom cabins
• Fuel Surcharge (+$150 per person, per cruise)

Mainland – Galapagos Islands – Mainland

It is necessary to fly to Guayaquil or Quito first. After the cruise, you can fly back to either city. Booking the domestic air to/from the Islands together with the Galapagos Cruise is highly recommended. Remember that all flight schedules are subject to change at the Airlines’ discretion without notice.

Flights commonly leave around 9 am to the islands, although this can vary by up to two hours. Return flights are around 2 pm, and can vary by 2 hours either way. Reach out to our reservation team for recommended flight arrival, departure timings, and airport details. Flight arrangements and timings are subject to change at the carrier’s discretion.

Evolution Cruise Ship, Galapagos

• 9.2 Superb 1 Verified Review
• from ₽ 62,398 / day

Excellent crew and service “O atendimento da equipe de bordo e dos guias naturalistas for excelente. Tudo funciona muito bem e a comida é muito boa com pratos…” CARLOS EDUARDO C, Brazil

• Signature cocktails in the bar
• Quiet lounge and onboard library
• Sun deck and Jacuzzi with views

M.V. Evolution has 16 comfortable cabins that accommodate up to 32 guests for an intimate and sociable Galapagos small ship cruise. Get to know the other guests over dinner in the indoor dining room or the outdoor dining area, and chat over a signature cocktail in the bar or outdoor lounge. The inside lounge is ideal for some quiet time, and you can grab a book from the library. Relax on the sun deck or in the Jacuzzi as you watch the sights unfold. Special dietary requests can be catered for with advance notice, with a hearty buffet breakfast and lunch served each day and a sit-down evening meal. Browse and buy a selection of items in the onboard boutique. The boarding deck makes accessing the water for activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and getting into dinghies easy. Retreat to your comfortable cabin at the end of each active day, ready to refresh for the next day. All cabins have a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries, air conditioning, and either a porthole or a window.

Join one of the M/V Evolution’s two cruise options for a marvelous adventure in the Galapagos. Different dates cater to different interests; active departures feature more water activities and longer walks, family departures are ideal for taking the kids, and photo safari departures are perfect for keen photographers. The seven-night “In the Steps of Pirates and Darwin” departs from Baltra Island and finishes in San Cristobal, while the seven-night “Footsteps Back in Time” sails from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz. Each adventure lets you get up close and personal with various local wildlife, join in with exciting activities, and admire stunning views.

The professional and friendly English- and Spanish-speaking staff members of the MV Evolution are waiting to greet you. Secure the dates you want and avoid missing out by booking online.

Choose your departure date adventure cruise | snorkelling only

Included: VAT, National Park Fees, Port Fees, Airport Transfer, Alcoholic Beverages, Alcoholic Drinks at Dinner, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Soft Drinks at Meal Times, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Wine with Dinner, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear, Snorkeling Guide, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, WiFi internet.

Optional Extras: Travel Insurance, Gratuities, Hotel Transfer, Local Flights, Laundry / Pressing Services.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

Pay by bank transfer or online with Best Price Guaranteed

Boat features

• Daily housekeeping
• Audio & video entertainment
• Air Conditioned saloon
• Aircon Cabins
• Indoor Saloon
• Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly
• Warm Water Showers
• Outdoor Dining
• En-Suite bathrooms
• Non-Smoking Rooms
• Seaview Cabins
• Kayaks On-Board
• Snorkeling Equipment
• Separate Rinse for u/w Camera
• Dedicated Local & International Crew
• Naturalist Guide
• Leisure Deck
• Observation Deck
• Family Friendly Cruise
• Jacuzzi / Hot Tub

Food & Drinks

• Western Food
• Vegetarian Options
• Buffet style
• Beer available
• Snacks All Day
• Vegan Options
• Fine Wines Selection
• Free Soft Drinks
• Fine Cuisine
• Welcome Cocktails
• Full-board Option
• Al Fresco Dining

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English and Spanish.

Gear Rental

There is equipment available to rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. You will need to pay for the rental gear on board of the boat. Show prices .

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Accommodation.

Master Suite (A1)

Suite (A2 & A3)

Premium Stateroom (C1-C3, C5-C9)

Premium Stateroom (C4)

Deluxe Staterooms (D1-D4)

Boat specifications.

• Length 60m/198ft
• Beam 8.9m/29ft
• Cruising speed 10-12knots
• Engines Caterpillar 3512 TITA 1300hp
• Max guests 32
• Number of cabins 16
• Number of bathrooms 16
• Tenders 3 dingies (pangas/zodiacs). 2 dingies are for 16 pax each / 1 for 12 pax

Boat Navigation and Safety

• Depth Sounder
• Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
• E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
• Emergency Rafts
• Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
• First Aid Kits
• Satellite & mobile phones
• Bilge pump alarm
• Search light
• Crew trained in first aid
• Emergency flares

Evolution Reviews

• 1 Verified Review
• Activities 10.0
• CARLOS EDUARDO C

Serviço incrível, barco ótimo, cabine barulhenta

O atendimento da equipe de bordo e dos guias naturalistas for excelente. Tudo funciona muito bem e a comida é muito boa com pratos variados e saborosos. Minha cabine ficava na frente do navio e eu acordava com o barulho da âncora porque navegamos sempre pela noite/madrugada. Quem pegou a cabine nos fundos do navio reclamou do barulho do motor.

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There is equipment available to rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. You will need to pay for the rental gear on board of the boat.

• Snorkel Gear Included
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• 1 double bed
• 24.4sq/m plus reading area
• Aircon with control
• Ensuite Bathroom
• Max 2 guests

Master Suite A1 is located on the Albatross Deck with queen bed and is full beam and our largest cabin onboard. Private bathroom, individual AC controls, safe boxes and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. This cabin has windows and a separate reading area

• 1 double or 2 single beds (amenable twin)

There is 1 twin suite (A2) and one Queen Suite (A3) on the Albatross-Deck, with 2 twin beds or one Queen, private bathroom, AC control, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. A telephone is also available for internal communications only. These cabins have windows.

• 13.5 - 18 sq/m

There are 8 premium twin staterooms on the Cormorant Deck, all with 2 twin beds or Queen beds, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have portholes.

Queen stateroom C4 on the Cormorant Deck, with 1 queen bed, private bathroom, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. This cabin has portholes.

There are 4 deluxe staterooms (D1-D4) on the Darwin Deck, 2 twins and 2 Queens each with private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have portholes which let light into the cabin.

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The 32-passenger motor yacht Evolution is a luxury expedition vessel featuring modern staterooms and suites as well as attentive service and up-close interaction with the environment. This small ship cruising in the Galapagos accommodates 32 passengers. Her artful combination of size and amenities results in a yacht that offers excellent service, accommodations and attention to detail, while causing minimal impact on the environment.

Evolution Ship Review

AdventureSmith Explorations’ Evolution review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class Galapagos cruise ship . Please read our Evolution review below then contact our experts to compare the Evolution with other small cruise ships , yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises .

Choose the Evolution if you are seeking an upscale Galapagos vessel with spacious accommodations that offers Galapagos luxury cruises . The food, service and guides aboard the Evolution receive especially high praise from the ship’s travelers. This unique small ship has all the modern amenities and loving attention to detail in its design yet retains the adventurous atmosphere of a smaller boat. A complete 2017 refurbishment renewed Evolution’s cabins, from floors to drapes, paint and walls, to furniture and bathrooms. A new noise insulation system was added to the engine and generator rooms as well.

Evolution is also an ideal ship for Galapagos family cruises , with special family departures that feature Kids Club activities like stargazing and movie nights, plus child-oriented guides.

Common Areas Aboard Evolution

Evolution features a lounge with a bar and facilities for lectures, slideshows and films. The lounge also contains a library with a wide range of books, movies and board games, including a Sony Playstation system and a 60″ TV. The yacht features both inside and al-fresco dining areas and a sky deck lounge on the Albatross Deck with a bar and nautical-themed furniture. The bow of the yacht features the hot tub with lounge chairs for sunbathing and wildlife viewing and ample outside deck space.

There is a boutique on board for purchasing amenities and souvenirs and a reception area where the cruise director can always be found. The yacht features a fully-equipped infirmary with a doctor on board at all times. 

Sustainability Aboard Evolution

The Evolution is plastic free thanks to her state-of-the-art water filtering system; no more plastic bottles. She boasts a complete wastewater treatment plant on board as well as an oil-filtering system geared towards making a positive difference regarding waste.

Dining Aboard Evolution

All meals are served in either the inside dining room or the equally elegant al-fresco dining area at the stern of the yacht. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet style, while dinner is served a-la-carte, all prepared by specially trained chefs. Meals are served in healthy quantities and in a variety of menus with tropical exotic fruits always available. Vegetarian, lacto-ovo-intolerant and other special menus are available upon request. On family-oriented departures, special children’s menus are also offered. Hors d’oeuvres are normally served along with local juices as a welcome treat twice a day upon return to Evolution following daily Galapagos Island visits and snorkeling outings.

Water (sparkling or still), soft drinks, juices, and non-premium wine, beer and signature cocktails are available free of charge. A self-service coffee and tea station is open between 6:30am and 11:00pm. Cookies, crackers, chocolates and instant coffee are available 24 hours a day. 

Activities Aboard Evolution

Sea kayaks, snorkeling gear and shortie wetsuits are available on board free of charge. A professional crew of 18 plus three naturalist guides, one doctor and one cruise director ensure attentive service. The three onboard dinghies can accommodate all 32 guests at once. The aft Boarding Deck enables easy loading and unloading for off-vessel adventures via the dinghies. 

For family cruises, the Evolution offers a Kids Club with activities like stargazing and movie nights. On these departures, child-oriented guides organize learning activities and provide children with a kids expedition journal for their entertainment.

Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Evolution

Evolution’s staterooms and suites all feature a private bathroom with walk-in shower, vanity kit, hair dryer and biodegradable shampoo, conditioner and soap; air conditioning; safe box; telephone for internal communications; ample space for clothing and luggage; 2-4 USB charging sockets; and 3-4 electrical outlets of 110 volts, 60 cycles (USA Standard 2- or 3-prong flat), plus 2 in every bathroom.

There are four Deluxe Staterooms D1-D4 with portholes on the Darwin Deck. D1 has twin beds and is 161 square feet. D2 has a queen bed and is 172 square feet. D3 has a king bed and is 200 square feet. D4 has twin beds and is 172 square feet.

Nine Premium Staterooms with portholes are on the Cormorant Deck. Two twin beds or one queen bed: C1 (194 sq ft), C2 (183 sq ft), C3 (188 sq ft), C6 (166 sq ft), C7 (188 sq ft), C8 (161 sq ft) & C9 (198 sq ft). One queen bed: C4 (140 sq ft) & C5 (145 sq ft). Triple accommodation available: C1-C2, C6-C7 & C9.

Suites A2 and A3 are located on the Albatross Deck and feature view windows. Suite A2 has twin beds that can be converted into a king bed and is 194 square feet. Suite A3 has a queen bed and is 202 square feet.

Master Suite A1 is located on the Albatross Deck and is 263 square feet. The Master Suite features a king bed, view windows and a reading area. Triple accommodation available.

Evolution Ship Reviews from Our Travelers

It was a wonderful trip, we enjoyed all aspects of it.

Fantastic trip, very well organized. Galapagos islands were incredible - beautiful and awe-inspiring. The Evolution was top-notch and I would recommend it without hesitation.

The trip was everything that I imagined it to be and more. There was plenty of excursion, both land and water everyday. The guides were very knowledgeable and it is definitely a trip I will remember for the rest of my life.

It was a wonderful trip, we enjoyed all aspects of it. We enjoyed all of our fellow travelers and hope to see many of them on future trips.

Accommodations Review

The MV Evolution was perfect.

Meals Review

The food was delicious. We were always offered several options and everything was fresh and well prepared.

Crew & Guides Review

Both of our naturalists, Walter and Carolina, were wonderful. They were enthusiastic and knowledgeable. 

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

We felt very well prepared. The pre-travel information was quite helpful and the packing lists were great.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Evolution Galapagos Cruises

Fantastic trip, very well organized. Galapagos islands were incredible - beautiful and awe-inspiring.

The Evolution was top-notch and I would recommend it without hesitation. The size of the vessel was perfect.

They were excellent - I would recommend to anyone traveling in South America. They did a fabulous job in all aspects.

This was a dream designation of mine since Junior High. The trip was everything that I imagined it to be and more. There was plenty of excursion, both land and water everyday. The guides were very knowledgeable and it is definitely a trip I will remember for the rest of my life.

Super minor item is the ship guide was slightly out of date. On both the Adventuresmith website and Quasar's own guide, it described that every room only had one two prong plug. When in fact there was twelve three prong outlets in the room along with 4 USB plugs. Not a big deal, but it did lead to us panic buying last minute travel chargers.

Well prepped, clean and delicious.

All 3 guides on the trip were excellent, if I were to pick my favorite I would definitely say Bolivar. He was knowledgeable and funny. On top of that, he went the extra mile to lend personal equipment to guests.

Itinerary Review

Enjoyed every bit of Galapagos. Simply due to the amazing wildlife that is not bothered by the human presence and the overall preservation of the islands. Honestly enjoyed everyday, if I were to pick one itinerary it would be the days that we went into town. The trip just feels too rushed and pales in comparison to the days that we spent in nature.

Transportation Review

Quasar did a fantastic job in meeting us at the airport, both going and returning.

COVID Logistics

Especially in the current pandemic, they [Quasar Expeditions] took quite a bit of uncertainty out of the trip.

Andrew communicated the requirements very well and honestly things went according to plan.

Traveler Advice

It's a beautiful location and deserve the 8-10 days that you get to stay there, do not go on the 3-4 day trips as the first and last days are travel, so it will not allow ample time to see what Galapagos have to offer. There are also plenty of wildlife, so don't worry about not being able to see them.

For the photographers or enthusiasts: 300mm was my best friend on this trip, although most animals will be so close to you, however the extra reach allowed me to better frame them, the 70-300mm was pretty much the lens that stayed on my camera 80% of the time.

• Andrew Browning
• Quasar Expeditions

Get Aboard the Evolution in Galapagos

A trip aboard the 32-guest Evolution offers one of the finest Galapagos cruise experiences available. A roomy yacht with a high crew-to-passenger ratio, she has modern amenities, including adventure gear, yet retains the charm of a Roaring Twenties small ship.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Learn More About the Galapagos Evolution, Her Sister Ship & Other Galapagos Yachts

What’s it like aboard the Galapagos Evolution ship? AdventureSmith’s experts have been aboard and can help you compare this ship with her sister ship, Grace. These two first-class ships will have similar amenities, cabin categories, meals and other services. Contact us to compare them, or learn about other comparable vessels sailing in the Galapagos Islands.

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Though built in the elegant style of a 1920s sailing vessel, yet possessing all the modern comforts for deluxe cruising through the Galapagos archipelago, the Galapagos Evolution Motor Vessel  is large enough to provide spacious staterooms, yet small and navigable enough for its guests to experience nature “up close and personal.”   A charming luxury-class expedition ship constructed in 2003 to accommodate only 32 guests in 16 elegantly designed suites and staterooms,  the Galapagos Evolution motor vessel  offers excellent service and gives plenty attention to detail while making a minimal impact on the archipelago’s fragile environment.   The ship’s social spaces include a sunbathing area and a bar on the main desk, as well as an alfresco lounge on the bridge deck – perfect for enjoying a drink while whale watching or socializing with fellow passengers. In addition, the vessel provides a main salon for lectures, slide shows and films about the islands that are to be visited.   The Galapagos Evolution Motor Vessel  features a Jacuzzi (great for your enjoyment after snorkeling) with lounge chairs for sunbathing. In addition, the cruise provides sea kayaks, snorkeling gear and wetsuits for exploring the underwater world. There is also a boutique onboard for purchasing amenities and souvenirs, and a reception area where your cruise director can always be found.   For meals, guests have the choice of the inside dining room or an alfresco dining area on the upper deck. The fine cuisine served onboard is varied and of the highest standard, catering also to the needs of vegetarians and those with other special dietary requirements, with all passengers served buffet style.   In addition to its 18 crew members, two (2) naturalist guides and one (1) cruise director, the ship features an onboard doctor who staffs the fully equipped infirmary. The naturalist guides will lead you on daily land tours to discover the amazing geography, the legendary wildlife and the diverse plant life that abounds across the archipelago.  The Evolution motor vessel  also has special departures for more active groups of kayakers, snorkelers and others wanting to experience the “enchanted”  Galapagos Islands .   For family cruises, the ship offers “Kids Club” activities such as stargazing and movie nights. The lounge also has a library with a wide range of books, movies and board games.

Galapagos Islands, San Cristobal (Kicker Rock), Floreana, North Seymour, Genovesa Islands & Charles Darwin Station

Boat Itineraries

• 8 days Cruise Itinerary 'Footsteps Back in Time'
• 8 days Cruise Itinerary 'In the steps of Pirates & Darwin'
• 15 Days Cruise Itinerary 'Darwin's Legacy'

Itinerary Details

San Cristobal Island Arrival in airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

San Cristobal Island: Cerro Brujo A beautiful white-sand beach full of pelicans, blue-footed boobies, sea lions and marine iguanas.

South Plaza Island South Plaza has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galapagos.

Santa Cruz Island: Carrion Point A lagoon with beautiful turquoise water where you can see a variety of fish, rays and white-tip reef sharks.

Mosquera Island The island consists is a long narrow stretch of white sand, rocks, and tide pools.

Sombrero Chino Island The landing is on a beautiful crescent-shaped beach, home to sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Santiago Island: James Bay There are many lava pools found here as well as caves and inlets home to an amazing variety of wildlife.

Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay A coral beach where a 750 mt. trail takes you through more seabird colonies.

Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip´s Steps An extraordinary, steep path leads through a seabird colony full of life, up to cliffs that are 25m high.

North Seymour Island Explore the rocky coast, passing colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds.

Santa Fe Island A volcanic uplift that hosts a forest of Opuntia and palo santo. Endemic land iguanas are often seen.

Floreana Island: Post Office Bay A white-sand beach where in the past sailors used to leave and receive their letters in a barrel.

Floreana Island: Cormorant Point Cormorant Point offers a trail overlooking a saltwater lagoon that is a favourite of flamingos.

Floreana Island: Champion Islet A small island located very near Floreana, snorkeling and diving around Champion can be excellent.

Floreana Island: Devil´s Crown Arguably the best snorkeling site in the islands, Devil´s Crown boasts an amazing variety of fish.

Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Station An organisation that provides scientific assistance to ensure the proper preservation of the Galapagos.

Pit Craters

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands The highlands are located in the northern part of the island and can reach elevations up to 1500 mt.

Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove This shallow inlet is surrounded by mangroves and provides natural protection for a variety of marine life.

Baltra. Transfer to the Airport.

Baltra Island Arrival in Baltra airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

Daphne Island A popular stop for scientists researching the unique qualities of the Galapagos finches.

San Cristobal Island: Puerto Baquerizo Moreno This relaxed town overlooking a harbour is the capital of the Galapagos Islands.

Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point The remnants of an ancient volcano form two turquoise coves with a bay protected from ocean swells.

Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point A narrow stretch of land where hundreds of marine iguanas gather largely on black lava rocks.

Isabela Island: Urbina Bay Its waters are a good place to see turtles and rays. Ashore you´ll find a short trail leading to a coral reef.

Isabela Island: Tagus Cove An opportunity to see penguins as well as marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions.

Bartholomew Island Bartholomew is home of the Pinnacle Rock, the most famous view in the Galapagos, and a beautiful white-sanded beach.

Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay The lava field has a variety of patterns made by the shapes and textures of trees that once existed there.

Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach A swimming beach and one of the few remnants of the U.S. World War II presence in the Galápagos.

Rábida Island A bird-watcher´s delight. Species includes Flycatchers, Galapagos Hawks and Brown Pelicans.

Española Island: Suárez Point Suarez Point is one of the most outstanding wildlife areas of the archipelago.

Española Island: Gardner Bay Gardner Bay has a magnificent beach with turquoise waters. The bay is home of a large colony of sea lions.

San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center A series of interactive exhibits providing information about the history and biodiversity of the Galapagos.

San Cristobal Island. Transfer to the Airport.

San Cristobal Island: Leon Dormido This island comprises two rocks which jut out of the ocean and is home to a large colony of sea birds.

Boat specifications

Technical specifications:.

• Length:  58.5 meters/192 feet
• Speed:  12 knots
• Crew and Staff:  18 staff; 2 naturalist guides; 1 cruise director; 1 doctor
• Languages:  English and Spanish
• Safety and Navigation:  Evolution meets all international standards of safety for a ship of its type. ONBOARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT: Safety equipment on board either meets or exceeds USA Coast Guard regulations, and all emergency equipment is SOLAS and ISM certified. The ship equipped with an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), three emergency open-sea life rafts for 26 people each, emergency life vests, flares, signals and fog horns, a PA system, smoke detectors, a sprinkler system throughout the vessel, and fire extinguishers. NAVIGATION EQUIPMENT: 72 mile Furuno Radar 19-53 CBB Navnet, Furuno GPS satellite navigator system, Furuno Depth Sounder, Simrad HS50 Electronic Girocompass, speed and distance log, compasses, barometers, forward looking echo sounder

Accommodations:

• Capacity:  32 passengers in 16 cabins
• Cabins:  2 master suites (A1 & A3) and 1 twin suite (A2) on the bridge, or the “Albatross Deck” / 4 premium queen staterooms (C1, C4, C5, & C9) and 5 premium twin staterooms (C2, C3, C6, C7 & C8) on the main “Cormorant” deck / 2 deluxe queen staterooms (D2 & D3) and 2 deluxe twin staterooms (D1 & D4) on the lower “Darwin” deck
• Features:  All cabins have air conditioning, private bathrooms with hairdryer, storage area, and safety deposit box.

Facilities:

• Restaurant; al fresco dining area; lounge; sun deck; library, video room (TV / CD / VHS / DVD / PlayStation 2); bar; Jacuzzi; air renewal system, air conditioning throughout, boutique, infirmary with MD on board, clear acrylic kayaks for “glass bottom” glimpses beneath the waves and a “snuba” (snorkey-scuba) for longer, deeper explorations of underwater life.

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Southern Explorations

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Physical Rating:

This trip is rated: moderate, how we rate our trips.

• Itinerary / Map
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• Trip Reviews

Most Popular Galapagos Islands Trips & Tours

The great weather of the Galapagos Islands makes them a fantastic destination for travel year-round. Every month of the year is a good time to enjoy a tour of the region. The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate that is almost completely determined by sea currents. Although most believe the Galapagos to be a very hot destination, the cool water currents in the area keep the climate more temperate year-round. The islands’ equatorial location ensures twelve hours of sunlight daily, all year long. The mild variations in weather from month to month result in an overall climate of warm days, cool nights and low humidity. Anytime is a great time to travel to the Galapagos; while visiting one can expect to see plenty of sunshine, blue skies and a possible chance of light rain. There are two seasons in the Galapagos:

• The hot or rainy season arrives with the coming of the warm Panama current. The warmest months are December through June with temperatures ranging from 72-90°F (22-32°C), with February and March being the hottest and sunniest. The sea is at its warmest (in the 70°F range) and tends to be calmer during this time. Although the islands receive slightly more rainfall during these months, most of the lower elevations remain quite arid. Expect blue skies and sunshine and with a chance of short afternoon showers.
• July through November is the dry or garua season, which begins with the arrival of cold ocean currents. One can expect cooler temperatures and a light mist in the morning during these months. The skies are also a bit cloudier and air temperatures a bit cooler, in the range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). The garua is a mist that forms in the highlands, providing moisture and usually tapering off by midday, leaving skies slightly overcast or sunny for the afternoon. The air temperature can be slightly lower, but the Equator is still a warm place to visit. During this time of year a cold ocean current from the south, called the Antarctic Humboldt current, causes the water temperature to drop slightly, ranging from 60°F- 72°F (15-22°C).

Within both seasons, there are other variants, like altitude, that affect the weather. The lowest point of elevation is sea level and the highest is Wolf Volcano, Isabela Island (5,600ft or 1,710m). There are seven vegetation zones ranging from arid coastal zones to evergreen cloud forests to treeless shrubless pampa zones, all of which are affected by moisture levels, temperature and sunlight. During the garua season, the coast is very dry while the highlands are much wetter. The hot season may or may not have a rainy period which normally lasts four to six weeks, or in the event of El Nino, a longer period. During the hot season, the coastal zones remain arid. Prevailing winds from the southeast keep the southern sides of the major islands much moister then the northern sides, which fall into a rain shadow resulting in the arid zones reaching a much higher elevation. The months of May and December are changeover periods and weather and sea temperatures in these months tend to vary from year to year depending on the change in the water currents. Occasionally, one will feel humidity, predominantly on the south side of major islands. Compared to the humidity levels in the Amazon or the US South, the humidity in the Galapagos is very low and will not disturb activities. Snorkeling is an activity offered on all Galapagos trips. Wetsuits, available onboard most cruises and for all land tours, are recommended June through November. Though sea temperatures vary significantly from island to island, generally all travelers will use a wetsuit during this time. Snorkeling in shallow waters offshore or in protective coves tends to be warmer. Waters to the north, near Genovesa are warmed by the Panama Current, whereas snorkeling off the western island of Isabela is always chilly due to the cold Cromwell undercurrent. The Humboldt Current, or the South Equatorial Current, brings cold sub-Antarctic water that flows through the archipelago eight or nine months a year keeping sea temperatures low. One will experience a variance in sea temperatures while snorkeling on any trip during any time of the year. During the hot season, travelers tend to spend more time in the water, especially at midday when the temperatures are the hottest and wildlife is less active. Snorkeling is an optional activity and those who are not interested in snorkeling have other options. Sea Conditions are a concern of many cruise travelers. All Galapagos vessels are small; the largest accommodates only 100 passengers. Naturally, some movement will be felt on all vessels regardless of the time of year or the size of the vessel. The seas around the Galapagos are generally shallow and despite being the crossroads of several currents, the waters are not terribly rough. The seas are at their calmest January through April. December, May and June are transitional months during which one will experience relatively calm seas, though it varies year to year depending on the shift in the currents. July through November, one will find choppier seas, with August through October being the roughest. Certain vessels are more stable than others and cabin location can also help avoid seasickness. Most travel is done at night while passengers are sleeping with the only exception being the short midday transit (two hours or less). During the day, vessels dock in calm waters near shore. Passengers spend most of the day on land or snorkeling. These factors lessen the risk of seasickness. We recommend that you bring over-the-counter or prescription motion sickness medication, though many cruisers discover that the seas are much calmer than anticipated. If you are concerned about motion sickness, please contact us for more details on how to select the right vessel for you.  

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches  

10 Day 1 (Fri - Sun)

This vessel's pricing varies depending on travel dates. Please contact us for the most uo-to-date pricing. Galapagos Airfare: $560 Entrance to Galapagos to National Park ($100 Adult / $50 Child) Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20) A single supplement applies to single travelers in a private cabin. Surcharge applies for holiday departures.

• 2 nights' accommodations in Quito or Guayaquil
• All meals on Galapagos cruise
• Galapagos cruise
• Local Quito or Guayaquil representative
• Naturalist guide while on cruise
• Paddling gear
• Snorkeling gear
• All airport/hotel transfers
• English-speaking certified guides
• Meals as indicated
• Southern Explorations pre-departure services
• Tips and gratuities
• Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Domestic airfare to and from Galapagos Islands
• Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100 Adult/$50 Child)
• Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20)
• Bar tab on cruise
• Hiking boots and other necessary sports gear

10 Day 2 (Fri - Sun)

This vessel's pricing varies depending on travel dates. Please contact us for the most uo-to-date pricing. Galapagos Airfare: $560 Entrance to Galapagos to National Park ($100 Adult / $50 Child) Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20) A single supplement applies to single travelers in a private cabin. Surcharge applies for holiday departures

• L.O.A.: 192 feet / 58.5 meters
• Beam: 29 feet / 8.9 meters
• Draft: 10.5 feet / 3.2 meters
• Engines: Caterpillar 3512 T1TA 1300hp
• Generators: Northern Lights 150 KVA
• Builder: Kanasashi Shipyard
• Speed: 10 / 12 knots
• Crew: 18 plus up to 2 naturalists guides & 1 tour leader

The overall holiday was excellent. The Southern Explorations element was fantastic and the Eclipse could not be faulted, except I ate far too much!  - Natasha Rowlands, UK (Galapagos Island Cruise)

I was very impressed with the organization of our trip.  Everything Southern Explorations was responsible for went smoothly and everything was on schedule.  The Manatee on the Amazon had some initial trouble but it could not have been known or anticipated by SE.  Once again I would like to compliment Jorge on his work.  He made our comings and goings to and from Quito very easy.  If I go to South America again my first call will be to Southern Explorations. Thank you. - Peter Tuck, CA (Corals & Manatee)

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Evolution yacht Galapagos

Evolution: the best of small yacht cruising and comfort in the galapagos.

Days: 8 | From: $8,950/per person

The Evolution yacht is a 32-passenger luxury vessel, 192 feet long. It has the atmosphere of one of the smaller yachts in the islands, while providing some additional space. The decks and social areas are spacious and well-appointed. Guides, food, and service are of top quality. An excellent way to see the Galapagos, combining the best of small yacht cruising and comfort.

• Regular departures throughout the year
• Available for private charter

We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting ships, excursions and length as desired.

We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.

Vessel Information

Accommodations.

The Evolution yacht has 16 cabins for up to 32 passengers with private facilities. There are 3 cabins on the Albatross (bridge) deck, no cabins on the Beagle (upper) deck, 9 cabins on the Cormorant (main) deck, and 4 cabins on the Darwin (lower) deck.

Albatross Deck: On this deck you will find 1 Master suite and 2 Standard suites with ocean-view windows. The captain's bridge, the al-fresco sky lounge and al-fresco bar are also located on this deck.

Beagle Deck: This is the main deck of the yacht where on the interior you will find the dining room, the reception area with our onboard boutique, and the main lounge . On the outside of this deck, you will find the al-fresco dining area at the stern, and the Jacuzzi with lounge chairs for sunbathing on the bow.

Cormorant Deck: On this deck you will find 9 premium staterooms (double and twin) with ocean-view port holes. The infirmary and the public bathroom of the yacht are also found on this deck.

Darwin Deck: On this deck you will find 4 ample deluxe staterooms (twin and double) with port-holes.

Yacht Specifications

Type: Motor Yacht / Expedition Vessel Length.: 192 feet / 58.5 meters Beam: 29 feet / 8.9 meters Engines: Caterpillar 3512 T1TA 1300hp Generators: Northern Lights 150 KVA Builder: Kanasashi Shipyard, Japan Cruising Speed: 10-12 knots Crew: 17 crew members plus up to 3 naturalist guides, 1 cruise director and 1 doctor Navigation Equipment: 72 mile Furuno Radar 19-53 CBB Navnet, Furuno GPS satellite navigator system, Furuno Depth Sounder, Simrad HS50 Electronic Girocompass, speed and distance log, compasses, barometers, forward looking echo sounder. Onboard Safety Equipment: EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), 4 x 25 person open sea life rafts, life jackets, flares and signals, fire extinguishing system, and sprinkler system throughout the vessel. Safety equipment on board either meets or exceeds USA Coast Guard regulations. Comfort Equipment: Air Renewal System, Air conditioning throughout, TV / CD / VHS/DVD/Playstation 2, boutique, infirmary with MD on board, small jacuzzi. Communications Equipment: UHF, VHF radio, Satellite Phones Electricity: 110 volts AC / 60 Hz: 2 flat prongs

Itineraries & Pricing

Itinerary a - in the steps of pirates and darwin (8 days).

Saturday Arrive to Baltra / Daphne Major Islet

Sunday Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela) / Punta Espinosa (Fernandina)

Monday Isabela: Urbina Bay / Tagus Cove

Tuesday Bartolome Island / Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)

Wednesday Santa Cruz: Bachas Beach / Rabida

Thursday Santa Cruz: Highlands / Charles Darwin Research Center

Friday Espanola: Punta Suarez / Gardner Bay

Saturday Interpretation Center (San Cristobal) / Return to Mainland

Itinerary B - Footsteps Back in Time (8 days)

Saturday Arrive to San Cristobal / Cerro Brujo

Sunday South Plaza / Punta Carrion (Santa Cruz) / Mosquera Islet

Monday Santiago: Chinese Hat / James Bay

Tuesday Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay / Prince Phillip’s Steps

Wednesday North Seymour / Santa Fe

Thursday Floreana: Post Office Bay / Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Friday Santa Cruz: Highlands / Charles Darwin Research Center

Saturday Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) / Return to Mainland

(800) 342-1796

Displayed itineraries are just summaries. Our travel specialists will help you select the best cruise based on your interests, timing and budget.

Trip length: 8 days, every Saturday to Saturday

Max number of passengers: 32, in 16 cabins

Prices 2024:

Included: All meals, guides & activities, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, water, coffee, tea, and select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate

Not included: Park fees (about $220 per person), Galapagos airfare (about $600 per person), holiday surcharge, gratuities, premium brands of wines, beer, or spirits

Master Suite A1: $10,750 – $13,050 per person

Suites A2 & A3: $10,350 – $12,550 per person

Staterooms C1 – C9: $9,550 – $11,550 per person

Staterooms D1-D4: $8,950 – $9,800 per person

Children 15 years and under receive a 15% discount (maximum of 3 discounts per family, not available for Christmas and New Year’s cruises)

Single supplement: 50% (staterooms), 75% (suites), 100% (Christmas and New Year’s cruises)

Charters: From $291,000

Reviews from this trip

The Evolution was excellent.

Outstanding trip. Guides were polite, flexible and knowledgeable and took us to more places than expected all interesting. Galapagos excursion on SS Evolution was really well done.

Call us to start planning your journey today:

1 (510) 548-8487

Why Travel with Vaya?

We're TRUE specialists

We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.

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From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.

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Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.

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Evolution Galápagos Cruise

Follow darwin's footsteps on these unforgettable cruises, a galápagos cruise on board the evolution.

• The most charming mega Yacht
• Fantastic ambiance and luxury
• Superb naturalist itineraries
• Great extras like "glass bottom" kayaks!

The Motor Vessel Evolution is, in our opinion, the most charming yacht in the Galápagos fleet. At almost 200 feet long, she is definitely a "mega yacht", and yet she has been designed to evoke the heyday of the luxury steamers - the 1920s and 1930s. Despite her vintage looks, she's actually a cutting edge vessel, designed and built in Japan in 2005 to the latest in marine safety and technology standards.

Timeless elegance Your Evolution experience starts with her breathtaking decor. Sumptuous, vintage, and elegant are just of the ways we would describe it.

Accommodation is across 9 premium staterooms, 4 deluxe staterooms, and 3 master suites. Cabins are simply wonderful, with stunning wood finishes and light and airy color schemes. Suites feature ocean-view windows, and other staterooms feature large traditional portholes - a truly nautical flavor! All cabins have wonderful en suite luxury bathrooms, independent air conditioning, internal telephones and plenty of storage (including personal safe).

Communal areas on board are no less delightful. At the ships bow is a traditional teak-planked sundeck with a huge Jacuzzi pool - the perfect place to soak up the sun or to admire the stars. The Evolution features both internal and Al Fresco dining areas, with attention paid to every detail.

For relaxing in the evening, you may choose to unwind with a drink in the inside saloon with its comfortable chairs and communal sofa, or perhaps make your way to the delightful Al Fresco lounge at the stern, with its extremely well stocked bar. Your barman has designed his own Evolution signature cocktail which we can highly recommend!

Fine dining and fine service Food on board is a highlight of the Evolution experience. Breakfast and lunch are served as a relaxed buffet, with plentiful choice and a wide range of flavors to explore. Dinners are still relaxed, but are served fine dining style at tables either in the inside or Al Fresco dining areas.

The chefs on board all have international hotel experience and benefit from a particularly well equipped galley, allowing them to prepare some amazing Ecuadorian and international specialties that will delight you.

With only 32 guests and 18 crew to look after them, you will enjoy one of the best guest-to-staff ratios in the Galápagos fleet. Everything you need will be taken care of with skill and a warm smile. For guests who require specific assistance with disabilities or dietary requirements, just speak to one of our Galápagos experts and we will ensure that Evolution's team will give you the perfect adventure.

An unrivalled wildlife experience Despite her size, the Evolution only caters for a maximum of 32 guests, and this means that she carries 2 naturalist guides. You will enjoy a decidedly intimate naturalist experience in groups of only 16. The Evolution recruits only the finest National Park approved bilingual guides, and they are a major part of the reason why your Evolution adventure will be so memorable.

Two superb week-long itineraries are available. One departs from Baltra and discovers the western islands, the other leaves from San Cristobal and concentrates on the east. Both are superb and receive consistently high reviews from our travelers. They have been designed to give you the best flavor of Galápagos and the most intimate encounters with the iconic species.

As well as a large variety of land excursions you will also enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking in the amazing "glass bottom" kayaks that Evolution carries. Masks, snorkels and fins are available free of charge to guests, and complimentary wetsuits are also available if required.

Our comments This mega yacht is stunning. We love the "Roaring 20s" ambiance, mixed with the very latest in amenities and service, all wrapped up in a Japanese-built vessel that's less than 15 years old… the perfect combination! Our guests love the huge Jacuzzi on the sun deck, and we love the food on Evolution Galápagos - the chefs are remarkable. If you've never tried a glass-bottom kayak before you will be amazed (and don't worry, it's not actually glass, but acrylic!), and the guides on board really are among the best in the islands. A trip on the Evolution is a stunning way to see the Galápagos in fantastic style.

Dates & Prices on board the Evolution

When do you want to travel.

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Amenities on board the Evolution

Internet/Wifi

100$ Galapagos NP Entrance Fee included

Alcoholic Beverages included

Transfers to and from ship

Snorkel gear (free of charge)

Travel for good: Your Each booking contributes to Ventura’s Conservation Project.

Kayaks on board

Air conditioning & private bathroom

Single travellers can share cabin

Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices

-15% for children ≤ 15

English guide

Food & Drinks on board the Evolution

The food on our Galapágos Cruises is among the very best you will find in South America. Most of the on-board chefs are internationally trained and have prior experience working in the best hotels and restaurants in Ecuador and indeed around the world.

You can expect a first-class selection of food, including a good variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, locally sourced poultry and fish/seafood, rice and pasta dishes. Most boats will always include some typical Ecuadorian dishes on the menu during your cruise. If you have specific dietary requirements then these can usually be accommodated by the chef providing you have given advance notice. Please make sure you tell us about any allergies or dietary requirements you have at the time you book with us. If you leave it until you arrive at the dockside, then it may well be impossible to accommodate your needs.

Most boats serve a range of options at meal times in a relaxed buffet-style. At the first class and luxury end of the market, some boats have more formal dining where you will be served at your seat. However the atmosphere is always relaxed on board our cruises, and never stuffy or formal.

At Galapatours we love and respect the pristine ecosystems and fascinating wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, and we insist that our cruise partners do too. To protect the archipelago all our cruise vessels must have sophisticated water filtration systems, modern efficient engines, and strict maintenance schedules to minimize pollution.

The Galápagos National Park authority also defines exact cruising routes that dictate which ships can visit highlights at specific times, as well as limiting passenger numbers. These measures ensure that animals and habitats are not disturbed by too many visitors.

Our commitment extends beyond the mandatory environmental standards for cruise vessels in the region: A portion of your trip price now contributes to our Conservation Project. This initiative empowers local communities to protect their territory, engage in reforestation, and prepare for long-term environmental stewardship. This way, your trip contributes to environmental protection and truly shows how travel can be a force for good! And you can also play your part by traveling responsibly and following our Eco Guidelines during your stay. Click here to find out more about these guidelines, our commitment to sustainable tourism, and the Galápagos National Park rules.

Cabins categories on board the Evolution

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy :

More about this cabin

Master Suite

Premium Stateroom

Deluxe Staterooms

Technical details of evolution, small yacht, main engines, 198 ft. / 60 m, electricity, cruising speed, 29 ft. / 9 m, reviews of evolution.

Francesc Xavier Corretger Ruhi

Evolution Galapagos Cruise

We visited the Galapagos Islands with the Evolution cruise. I made the reservation through Gapapatours and we had no problems. Everything went very well, the boat, the organization, the guides, the crew and the rest of the passengers have been fantastic. We have done many activities, both land and water, without ever having the feeling that we had to hurry. The best have been the landscapes and the encounters with marine fauna, mainly being able to swim and play with sea lions and turtles. I highly recommend this trip and would not hesitate to repeat it! Xavier Corretger (Girona)

Lional & Jackie Knight

An excellent experience in the Galapagos We enjoyed an excellent experience in the Galapagos, on the MV Evolution, in early March 2018. The boat was, we thought, perfect, with enough room for everyone, good rooms and facilities, and an expert, friendly crew. The vessel cruises around the Islands, so every day we had new places to explore on land, on and under the sea. The wildlife was spectacular, and the experience was heightened by the two experienced and very approachable wildlife experts who were always out with us. Both experts were local people who were clearly committed to the ecology of the Galapagos, very inspiring. Perhaps I should say that my wife and I aren’t regular wildlife tourists, and we found the experts very illuminating, as did several more committed wildlife guests on our trip. The bar area, and service on board was always welcoming; the food was a good standard, with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables; in fact all the food was tasty and reasonably healthy. The off vessel trips were all very well organized, with careful attention paid to safety, while giving guests the freedom to experience the delights of Galapagos’ nature. There were a couple of moderately steep hikes that taxed older guests, but the vast majority of off vessel experiences were very accessible to all; and of course no one had to go on very trip.

Lionel & Jackie Knight

Sehr zu empfehlen Wir waren im März 2018 auf der Evolution für eine Galapagos Kreuzfahrt und genossen jede Sekunde. In unseren Augen ist das Schiff perfekt mit genügend Raum für jedermann. Die freundliche Besatzung rundete das Paket ab. Da das Schiff ständig in Bewegung ist, gab es jeden Tag eine andere Insel zu entdecken. Die Tiere auf Galapagos sind spektakulär, das Beste ist, viele Arten gibt es nur hier! Die erfahrenen, hervorragend ausgebildeten Guides konnten uns alle Fragen mühelos beantworten. Beide waren Einheimische und zeigten ihre Heimat- und Naturverbundenheit während der ganzen Kreuzfahrt, wirklich beeindruckend. Über das Essen kann man nicht klagen, es war sehr gut. Viele Früchte und Gemüse, alles frisch zubereitet. Die Inselausflüge waren super organisiert. Einige Wanderungen waren für Älteres Klientel schwierig zu bewältigen aber alle haben es geschafft.

Andrew Brown

Jeden Cent wert! Es hätte nicht besser laufen können. Die Größe des Schiffes war optimal und wir kamen sehr gut mit den anderen Reisenden zurecht. Unsere Kabine war sehr komfortabel, das Essen war herrlich und die Crew einfach unschlagbar. Die Inseltouren zeigten uns das Maximum, was man hätte sehen können, die Guides waren 1a.

Priceless experience From the time of first booking the trip to the Galapagos to leaving the M/V Evolution, it could not have been a more efficient or thoughtful service. Their recommendation for the Wyndham Hotel in Guayaquil was solid. The size of the ship was optimal, I thought, especially as our fellow passengers were a genial bunch. It was comfortable, the crew were professional and the meals were enjoyable. The day tours were conceived to show the maximum amount of the wonderful islands, and our nature guides were superb.

Sharzad Sheibani

Amazing trip of a life time!!! Amazing trip of a life time!!! We have a daughter with severe anaphylaxis to dairy, nuts, and peanuts. The crew on the Evolution served us safe and delicious foods and even stocked the ship with dairy free snacks! Only complaint is that we were unable to take home a blue footed boobie. I think if we could just taken home the baby sea lion with whom we swam, it would have been a perfect trip :)

Similar Ships

Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Tribute Yacht, a beacon of luxury cruising in the enchanting Galapagos Islands. As the epitome of sophistication, this yacht redefines the exploration experience, offering guests an exquisite blend of breathtaking ocean views, refined dining, and unparalleled comfort. With a guest capacity capped at 20, the Tribute Yacht ensures an intimate and exclusive voyage, allowing guests to indulge in the serenity of small-group luxury. The vessel boasts premium suites, meticulously designed to provide a sanctuary of comfort and style. From the Panorama Suites offering spacious elegance to the Premium Suites with added features like a convertible sofa and extra storage, and the expansive Owner’s Suite spanning 50m2, every accommodation option reflects opulence. Safety takes precedence aboard the Tribute Yacht, demonstrated by the acquisition of the International Safety Management Certificate. Rigorous inspections and scheduled maintenance ensure that the vessel operates in impeccable, secure condition, providing peace of mind for all esteemed guests. Luxury permeates every aspect of the Tribute Yacht, from the cocktail bar and wine vault to ocean-view dining and a delightful coffee and chocolate corner. The upper deck beckons with the serenity of the sunset lounge, a private massage area, and a workout zone, while the sun deck offers al fresco dining, BBQ feasts, and panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the refined elegance of the Tribute Yacht, where every moment is carefully crafted to make your Galapagos voyage an unforgettable synthesis of luxury and adventure.

- A vintage ship steeped in history - Walk the same decks as Grace Kelly once did! - Wonderful food and service - Superb wildlife itineraries Built as a luxury plaything for the super-rich in the 1920s, used by the British as part of the war effort in the 1940s, bought by the world's most famous shipping magnate in the 1950s, host to Winston Churchill twice, then given as a wedding gift to the most glamorous couple of the century who honeymooned on board. This boat truly is a remarkable slice of history. Acquired by the current owners in 2007, they then spent 2 years completely refurbishing her into what is now the most beautiful and elegant way to see the wonders of Galápagos. Timeless luxury As befits the boat that was owned and honeymooned on by Prince Rainier and Princess Grace (Kelly) of Monaco, Motor Yacht Grace is simply stunning. For the ultimate Galápagos experience of a lifetime for that special occasion, why not book the Grace Kelly Suite? Featuring decor by award-winning designer Adriana Hoyos, the suite is the exact same location where Grace Kelly's suite was located in the 1950's. This is the most spacious accommodation in the yacht and features sumptuous fitting and the latest mood lighting to enable you to set your perfect ambiance. Two further master suites are available, each with queen bed, gorgeous teak decking, and wonderful panoramic windows. There are also twin suites, and premium twin staterooms available. All accommodation is decorated and furnished to the highest standards, with plenty of storage, luxury cosmetics, and individual air conditioning for your comfort. Relax in oppulance With a maximum of only 18 guests on board at any time, the Grace delivers a truly boutique experience. Her public areas are just as stunning as her staterooms, and feature original features restored to the highest standards. On the stern resting deck you will even see the original brass ship's wheel from 1927, inscribed with the yacht's original name. The main saloon features period-style luxury leather seating and hand-crafted wooden fittings, delivering perfectly that bygone feeling and offering a cozy and snug place to relax, and to listen to the briefings delivered by your bilingual naturalist guides. The outside saloon is the perfect place to enjoy the sea breeze and sip cocktails from its bar at the end of a busy day exploring all that Galápagos has to offer. If you need to soak up some of the equatorial sun then the upper sun lounge is the perfect place to unwind. Fine dining Al Fresco Grace features an Al Fresco dining room at the stern of the vessel which offers simply the best view with dinner in the Galápagos! Reviews of a cruise on Grace consistently rate the dining experience as one of the best in the fleet. Her chefs are among the best in the islands, and the variety and quality of the cuisine is astonishing. For guests with specific dietary restrictions, allergies or any other requirements, just make sure to advise your Galápagos expert when you call us and we will make sure that the Grace caters to your every need, ensuring you of a true luxury experience that meets your requirements perfectly. An intimate view of the Galápagos wildlife Because the Grace accommodates 18 passenger, and the National Park limits groups to 16 per guide, you are able to enjoy a truly intimate naturalist experience as you will be in small groups of only 9 people per guide - one of the best ratios in the Galápagos cruise fleet. The Grace's operators believe in showing you the best of the Galápagos, including some of the more remote islands. They don't believe that avoiding these longer trips to save fuel will give you the most of your experience in the archipelago. To this end, Grace offers two remarkable itineraries to choose from - one focusing on the western islands departing from Baltra, and one for the eastern islands, departing from San Cristobal. These itineraries have been designed to get you up close and personal with the most iconic species and habitats that the islands have to offer. Your naturalist guides are experts in all aspects of the islands' fauna, flora and geology, and they will bring the Galápagos to life for you. If you have particular islands or species that you simply must see, talk to one of our Galápagos experts today and we can advise you on the best Grace itinerary to fit your goals. Our comments What more can we say? A truly historic yacht, award-winning interior designer, stunning food, choice of two wonderful itineraries... If you are planning your Galápagos adventure as part of a special celebration, or as your "trip of a lifetime", we really can't think of any better ship to book than the honeymoon yacht of Grace Kelly. Captain Jacinto and his crew are consistently rated amongst the best in the Galápagos fleet. If you can find any space on this popular ship then we really recommend a voyage on Grace. You won't be disappointed!

Natural Paradise

Completed in 2016, the Natural Paradise will delight you with her wonderful open communal areas, gorgeous sun deck, and light-filled rooms. Featuring every facility you can imagine, the Natural Paradise has also been fitted with stabilizers – this brings you one of the most comfortable cruising experiences in the Galápagos with even more stability than catamarans for your sailing comfort. The decor throughout Natural Paradise is modern and crisp and yet warm and welcoming. Beautiful artwork throughout the boat reflects some of the natural wonders you’ll see on your adventure, and furnishings and fittings are of the highest quality and are immaculately presented. A range of staterooms, junior suites and suites are available, giving you maximum choice. All feature en suite bathrooms with incredible showers and luxury L’Occitan cosmetics, hair dryers, and stunning sea views. For those who are looking for a little more luxury, two junior suites are available with California King beds and private balconies as well as splendid full suites with King beds, private terraces and over 3552 ft of private space. With a maximum of 16 passengers on board and yet a crew of 10, Natural Paradise offers unrivalled levels of service. As well as being chosen for their eye for detail and immaculate presentation, crew members are warm and welcoming and provide a real home-from-home feel – there are smiles everywhere on Natural Paradise! Food is freshly prepared on board and features a great range of dishes, including local specialities and fantastic seafood. The sun deck barbecue and dining table provides some memorable informal dining experiences. Coffee, teas, ice, and water are available 24 hours whenever you require and the crew always provide you with welcome snacks on returns from excursions. A wonderful, purpose-built vessel that makes for a breathtaking Galápagos cruising experience. A range of accommodation means there’s something for everyone, and the luxurious yet informal feel makes for remarkable, intimate communal experiences as well as decadent private time relaxing in your suite. Natural Paradise has raised the bar for new vessels in the area.

Grand Majestic

Designed and built in the USA in 2018, Grand Majestic is being hailed as the first MegaYacht in the Galápagos fleet. Constructed to the same exacting specifications as the best private luxury yachts in the world, Grand Majestic also has another trick up her sleeve – at 25kts, she's the fastest vessel in the Galápagos cruise fleet. That means you can spend more time experiencing what the Galápagos has to offer and less time traveling between visitor sites. All this while enjoying the highest standards of luxury and service. With only 8 cabins in total, there are superb levels of space, light and luxury. Most cabins features panoramic windows for unparalleled views of the islands. Each has been luxuriously decorated with designer fabrics and the highest quality fittings. Stunning bathrooms, climate control, luxury linens and the finest toiletries are just a few of the amenities enjoyed by all cabins. The grand master suite boasts an enormous 400 square feet of space, and is the perfect choice for that very special "trip of a lifetime". Communal spaces onboard are no less spectacular. Our favorite is the luxurious al fresco dining area up on the sundeck, offering absolutely stunning views as you enjoy the finest Ecuadorian and international cuisine and wines. The main deck houses the indoor dining area, extensively stocked bar, and a wonderfully comfortable saloon area featuring a stunning communal leather sofa. This is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing drink before dinner after your day's adventures, or to listen to your naturalist guide brief you about the wonders in store for you on your next excursion. Another standout feature is the large jacuzzi hot tub on the sundeck. It's a remarkable place to enjoy the equatorial night sky as the stars come out on a warm evening. If you would like to charter Grand Majestic for your own private use, we are able to facilitate this. Please speak to one of our Galápagos experts, and we can arrange this VIP service on your behalf. Grand Majestic is operated by Galápagos veterans, and they have put all their skills and experience to use in designing superb itineraries that allow you to see almost everything the Galápagos has to offer. As well as standout 8-day cruises, Grand Majestic can also cater for those with less time available in the Galápagos but who still wish to see as much as possible. Special 4- and 5-day itineraries are available. Excursions include wet and dry landings at some of the most stunning spots in the islands, as well as plenty of opportunity for snorkeling with exotic creatures like marine iguanas, Galápagos sharks and the friendly Galápagos Sea Lions. Of course, top of the range snorkeling equipment is available for you on a complimentary basis. Her bilingual naturalist guides are the among the best in the Galápagos, and they will enhance your visit with their in-depth knowledge of the islands' flora and fauna, as well as their expertise in locating the iconic species that can't be found anywhere else. With her speed, Grand Majestic allows you to enjoy more "contact time" with the Galápagos than any other vessel in the fleet. The fact that this speed is accompanied by standards of luxury never before seen in a boat of this type means that a Galápagos cruise on the Grand Majestic is an experience you will always remember. We have been working with the operator of this ship for many years, and we know they have poured heart and soul into Grand Majestic to bring you the best Galápagos cruise you can experience.

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From: US$8,950 (8D/7N)

EVOLUTION CRUISE SHIP

M/V Evolution abides under all international standards of safety for a Galapagos cruise ship of its type. It is ISM (International Safety Management) certified and is equipped with an emergency alarm system, 3 emergency life rafts for 26 pax each, emergency life vests, fog horns, a PA system, smoke detectors, a sprinkler system and fire extinguishers. All emergency equipment is SOLAS certified. The yacht also carries 2 dingies (pangas/zodiacs) for 16 pax each and 1 dingy for 12 pax for day to day activities.

Key Features:

• Snorkeling equipment, kayak and scuba on board
• Air-conditioned
• Al fresco dining

Gallery | Prices | Itineraries | Other Cruise Ships

Overall Rating 4.2      

What is this?

• Accom.: 4.0
• Itinerary: 4.3
• Service: 4.5

Prices from: US$ 8,950 (8D/7N)

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EVOLUTION RATES

• For the latest promotions on this boat and others, please click here .
• Prices are per person in United States Dollars.
• Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Additional Information

• 15% discount off the above rates (cruise only) for children 15 years and younger. Maximum of 3 children discounts per family, per booking. (discounts do not apply for Christmas and New Year's cruises)
• 75% Supplement surcharge for Single travelers on suites. 50% Single Supplement surcharge applies to all other staterooms.
• 100% Single Supplement applies to all staterooms for Christmas and New Year’s cruises.

Rates Include

• Expert guidance and service from your own personal Expedition Designer
• Comprehensive pre-and post-cruise information material
• Galapagos National Park entrance fee*
• Internet / Wi-Fi Connection throughout the cruise
• Galapagos Transit Control Card
• Naturalist guides & activities throughout the cruise
• All transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos
• Select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise
• Lectures and entertainment onboard
• Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels & fins) and wetsuits (3mm long wetsuit)
• Kayaks, Paddle Boards & Equipment

Not Included

• Flights, accommodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary
• International air tickets to either Quitoor Guayaquil, Ecuador
• Gratuities to guides, crew and staff
• Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
• Trip insurance and medical evacuation insurance
• Premium brands of wines, beer or spirits
• Mainland Ecuador arrangements (we’d be delighted to arrange these for you)

EVOLUTION DECK PLANS

EVOLUTION ITINERARIES

Please note: Itineraries are unlikely to change significantly but are subject to change. Weather, wildlife breeding, instructions from the Galapagos National Park, specific abilities and interests of passengers as well as operational matters may cause your guide or captain to change the time or nature of visits. Your guide will always endeavor to select the best itinerary within these limits....

EVOLUTION CRUISE REVIEWS

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Evolution Cruise Ship

The Evolution Yacht comfortably accommodates up to 32 guests in its spacious and luxurious interiors. It boasts an attractive design with various social areas, including two large sundecks and bars.

• 13 staterooms + 3 suites
• Accommodate up to 32 passengers
• Air-conditioned
• 2 sundecks, 2 bars, library, saloon, boutique
• Infirmary with Doctor on board
• Alfresco dining
• Snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and scuba on board
• Luxurious and Spacious
• Offers exquisite gourmet meals
• Level III Galapagos Naturalist Guides
• Classic vessel for many years cruising the Galapagos
• Single supplement 75%
• Children´s discount 15%
• An additional US$700 per person holiday surcharge

The  Evolution Cruise Ship  has an intimate feel and is tastefully designed. Accommodating up to  32 passengers  with 14 cabins and 4 suites, all with air-conditioning and private facilities, this is an elegant ship for your Galapagos adventure.

This romantic ship has capabilities for sailing and features  two sundecks ,  two bars , a saloon, a boutique, a small pool , alfresco and inside dining, and an infirmary with an  MD on board .  Kayaks , snorkeling, and scuba equipment are available onboard.

Evolution Cruise Ship Itineraries & Prices

am: Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one of the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos penguin.

pm : Galapagos Sea Lions, Blue-footed Boobies, land iguanas and Magnificent Frigatebirds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity.

am: Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one of the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos penguin.

pm : Magnificent Frigatebirds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity.

Prices 2023 Valid from Jan 01, 2023 to Dec 31, 2023

Prices 2024 valid from jan 01, 2024 to dec 31, 2024.

am: Baltra Island Arrival in Baltra airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

pm : Daphne Island A popular stop for scientists researching the unique qualities of the Galapagos finches.

am: Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point The remnants of an ancient volcano form two turquoise coves with a bay protected from ocean swells.

pm : Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point A narrow stretch of land where hundreds of marine iguanas gather largely on black lava rocks.

am: Isabela Island: Urbina Bay Its waters are a good place to see turtles and rays. Ashore you´ll find a short trail leading to a coral reef.

pm : Isabela Island: Tagus Cove An opportunity to see penguins as well as marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions.

am: Bartholomew Island: Pinnacle Rock Bartholomew is home of the Pinnacle Rock: the most famous view in the Galapagos Islands.

pm : Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay The lava field has a variety of patterns made by the shapes and textures of trees that once existed there.

am: Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach A swimming beach and one of the few remnants of the U.S. World War II presence in the Galápagos.

pm : Rábida Island A bird-watcher´s delight. Species includes Flycatchers, Galapagos Hawks and Brown Pelicans.

am: Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Station An organisation that provides scientific assistance to ensure the proper preservation of the Galapagos.

pm : Santa Cruz Island: Highlands The highlands are located in the northern part of the island and can reach elevations up to 1500 mt.

am: Española Island: Suárez Point Suarez Point is one of the most outstanding wildlife areas of the archipelago.

pm : Española Island: Gardner Bay Gardner Bay has a magnificent beach with turquoise waters. The bay is home of a large colony of sea lions.

am: San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center A series of interactive exhibits providing information about the history and biodiversity of the Galapagos. San Cristobal Island. Transfer to the Airport.

am: San Cristobal Island Arrival in airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

pm : San Cristobal Island: Cerro Brujo A beautiful white-sand beach full of pelicans, blue-footed boobies, sea lions and marine iguanas.

am: South Plaza Island South Plaza has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galapagos.

pm : Santa Cruz Island: Carrion Point A lagoon with beautiful turquoise water where you can see a variety of fish, rays and white-tip reef sharks.

am: Sombrero Chino Island The landing is on a beautiful crescent-shaped beach, home to sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

pm : Santiago Island: James Bay There are many lava pools found here as well as caves and inlets home to an amazing variety of wildlife.

am: Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay A coral beach where a 750 mt. trail takes you through more seabird colonies.

pm : Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip´s Steps An extraordinary, steep path leads through a seabird colony full of life, up to cliffs that are 25m high.

am: North Seymour Island Explore the rocky coast, passing colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds.

pm : Santa Fe Island A volcanic uplift that hosts a forest of Opuntia and palo santo. Endemic land iguanas are often seen.

am: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay A white-sand beach where in the past sailors used to leave and receive their letters in a barrel.

pm : Floreana Island: Cormorant Point Cormorant Point offers a trail overlooking a saltwater lagoon that is a favourite of flamingos. or Floreana Island: Champion Islet A small island located very near Floreana, snorkeling and diving around Champion can be excellent. or Floreana Island: Devil´s Crown Arguably the best snorkeling site in the islands, Devil´s Crown boasts an amazing variety of fish.

am: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove This shallow inlet is surrounded by mangroves and provides natural protection for a variety of marine life. Baltra. Transfer to the Airport.

• All meals while on board
• All non-alcoholic beverages consumed onboard
• English speaking naturalist guide
• Islands excursions and activities according to the Itinerary
• Snorkel equipment (mask, tube, & fins)
• Kayaks on board

Not Included

• Flights to/from the Galapagos Islands
• Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
• Migratory Control Card
• Tips and personal expenses
• Travel, cancellation and medical insurance
• Capacity : 32
• Length : 59m / 192ft
• Refurbished : 2017
• Cruise Speed : 12 Knots
• Guest Capacity : 32 Guests
• Crew : 19 Crew members + 2 Naturalist Guide + 1 Doctor
• Type : Motor Yacht / Expedition Vessel
• Cabins : 13 Staterooms + 3 Suites
• Electric power : 110V and 220V

Albatross Deck

Beagle Deck

Cormorant Deck

Darwin Deck

Spaces aboard the evolution cruise ship.

As these young islands were cooling off some two million years later, certain species gradually began to arrive to the archipelago. It is speculated that these newcomers arrived in the Galapagos on large rafts of vegetation that broke off from the shores of Central and South America. Upon arriving in the archipelago, these species had to rapidly adapt to a radically new environment.

Cooking Classes

The Evolution Cruise Galapagos offers a unique culinary experience to its guests, including onboard cooking classes that are highly popular among its passengers. These classes allow guests to learn the preparation of local dishes, such as the Galapagos ceviche, under the guidance of internationally trained chefs. The food served on the cruise is among the finest in South America, reflecting the culinary sophistication that the Evolution Cruise is renowned for. These interactive and engaging cooking classes, combined with the exceptional dining experience, contribute to the distinctive and luxurious ambiance of the Evolution Cruise Galapagos.

Kids On Board

The Evolution Galapagos Vessel is a fantastic choice for young explorers. Its capacity to accommodate 32 passengers ensures an intimate and personalized experience. The vessel provides various adventurous activities like sea kayaking and snorkeling, perfect for satisfying youthful curiosity and energy. The onboard Level III Galapagos Naturalist Guides offer educational insights about the islands' unique ecosystem, sparking interest and promoting learning. This mix of adventure, education, and comfort makes the Evolution an excellent choice for young travelers.

Al Fresco Lounge

The outside lounge on the Evolution Galapagos Vessel is an exquisite feature that enhances guests' experience. This area maximizes outdoor living space, providing ample room for relaxation and wildlife viewing. Furnished with comfortable chaise lounge chairs, it is an ideal spot for sunbathing or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the Galapagos Islands. The upper deck solarium, another guest favorite, offers a serene environment to unwind. To top it off, the outside lounge area is conveniently close to a well-stocked cocktail bar, allowing guests to enjoy their favorite drinks while basking in the warm, salty sea breeze.

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More options.

Galaxy Sirius

Launching in March 2024, the Galapagos Galaxy Sirius is a luxurious catamaran cruise offering unique adventures in the Galapagos Islands. It accommodates up to 16 guests in eight plush suites and offers exceptional service and stunning views.

La Pinta is a luxurious cruise ship renowned for its exceptional service to a maximum of 48 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. This vessel delivers a unique blend of entertainment options for adults and children.

Isabella II

The Isabela II, a sumptuous 40-passenger yacht, promises an unforgettable cruising experience steeped in luxury. This vessel is meticulously outfitted with everything a discerning guest could desire.

The Aqua Mare provides the premier superyacht experience in the Galapagos. The yacht accommodates 16 passengers and ensures top-tier service with a unique one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio for personalized attention.

Stella Maris

A luxury mega yacht, Stella Maris is designed to provide an unforgettable charter experience. With the capacity to accommodate up to 14 guests in its 7 plush cabins, this yacht is a testament to sustainable and eco-friendly exploration.

Experience the ultimate luxury aboard Relais & Chateauxs Origin, Theory, and Evolve. These opulent ships offer spacious staterooms with private bathrooms and panoramic views, ensuring an unforgettable Galapagos journey of comfort and exploration.

Origin-Theory-Evolve

Galapagos horizon, ocean spray itineraries, space aboard the ocean spray, from our travellers, related cruises.

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Galapagos Cruise – Evolution from Baltra Island

From 885 / person / day.

Refreshingly elegant and well-equipped too, the 32-passenger Galapagos Evolution is a real standout cruise vessel, both for its nostalgic appearance and the quality of itineraries it offers, with this particular route beginning from Baltra Island being no different. The Evolution itself boasts two sundecks, a Jacuzzi, lounge bar and modern interiors in addition to its expert crew and guides; plus, throughout this Galapagos tour you’ll also be treated to some truly iconic sights. From Baltra Island and sunset around the Daphne Major Islet on day one, early Galapagos highlights then come in the form of Vicente Roca Point off Isabela Island and abundant wildlife on Fernandina Island. Both of these are known for their populations of Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, Pelicans and Penguins, then Iguanas and Flightless Cormorants once you reach Fernandina. Panoramic views, snorkeling and plenty of marine life come with voyages between Bartolome, Santiago and Santa Cruz Islands, finishing up on the pristine sandy shores of Gardner Bay on Espanola Island; a classic Galapagos itinerary.

Travel aboard the

Refreshingly elegant and well-equipped too, the 32-passenger Galapagos Evolution is a real standout cruise vessel, both for its nostalgic appearance and the quality of itineraries it offers, with this particular route beginning from Baltra Island being no different. The Evolution itself boasts two sundecks, a Jacuzzi, lounge bar and modern interiors in addition to its expert crew and guides; plus, throughout this Galapagos tour you’ll also be treated to some truly iconic sights. From Baltra Island and sunset around the Daphne Major Islet on day one, early Galapagos highlights then come in the form of Vicente Roca Point off Isabela Island and abundant wildlife on Fernandina Island. Both of these are known for their populations of Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, Pelicans and Penguins, then Iguanas and Flightless Cormorants once you reach Fernandina. Panoramic views, snorkeling and plenty of marine life come with voyages between Bartolome, Santiago and Santa Cruz Islands, finishing up on the pristine sandy shores of Gardner Bay on Espanola Island; a classic Galapagos itinerary.

VISIT OUR GALAPAGOS PAGE TO LEARN A BIT ABOUT GALAPAGOS

BALTRA ISLAND / DAPHNE MAJOR ISLET

Having flown in from either Quito or Guayaquil, touchdown on Baltra Island where your guide is waiting at the airport to assist with any belongings and whisk you off to the dock and awaiting Galapagos Evolution cruise vessel. Once aboard, settle into your cabin and prepare for an early introduction to this Galapagos adventure, as the Evolution makes way for the picturesque islets of Daphne Major and Minor. Among other things, these small islands are well-known for their abundance of native bird species including Galapagos Martins, Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, Short-eared Owls and Red-billed Tropic Birds.

Optional Activities:

ISABELA ISLAND / FERNANDINA ISLAND

Snorkeling these crystalline waters is a truly iconic experience, and some of the best in the Galapagos comes at Vicente Roca Point in the Bolivar Channel, Isabela Island. Day two of your Galapagos Evolution cruise begins by traversing the coastline on your way there, on the lookout for nesting seabirds, Nazca and Blue-footed Boobies, Pelicans and Penguins, before entering the ancient volcanic coves of Vicente Roca Point itself. Once here you can swim and snorkel admiring the colorful marine life, tropical fish and Sea Lions as you go. Next, think Iguanas, Iguanas, and more Iguanas–both of the Land and Marine variety–as you moor up at Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, a relatively recent volcanic outcrop to the Galapagos Archipelago’s far west, for this afternoon’s nature walk. Despite its barren and dramatic appearance, life does exist here, not only the native Iguana population but also Flightless Cormorants, Galapagos Penguins and Hawks, with a peppering of sturdy cacti and occasional mangroves too; Galapagos wilderness at its primitive best.

Visiting Isabela Island is often a highlight of any Galapagos tour, awash with varied species and its fair share of natural wonders, rich biodiversity and distinctive, dramatic scenery. This is characterized by its great craters such as Sierra Negra, Volcan Chico, and the charred shores of Urbina Bay which lie in the shadow of Alcedo Volcano, your first stop of the day. A dramatic stretch of dark sand coastline buffeted by volcanic rock and foliage, Urbina Bay is also heavily populated with Land Iguanas and, at certain times of the year, Giant Galapagos Tortoises, which all makes for quite a sight. From here, head to one of the most atmospheric and iconic Galapagos spots: Tagus Cove, a former pirate hangout which was visited by Charles Darwin, though for very different reasons. Today, Tagus Cove is a great location to hike and snorkel, thanks to an abundance of Flightless Cormorants, Penguins, Finches and Yellow Warblers above ground; Sea Turtles and innumerable tropical fish below it.

BARTOLOME ISLAND / SANTIAGO ISLAND / SULLIVAN BAY

Start today at Bartolome Island, navigating wooden walkways to ascend to one of the best lookout points in the Galapagos. From this angle you get a 360-degree panoramic view of the wider archipelago, offering a visual perspective on how these islands were originally formed–particularly Santiago Island, Sullivan Bay and Pinnacle Rock. This afternoon, the Evolution ventures north to Santiago Island and anchors in Sullivan Bay, an extraordinary place sheltering unusual wildlife and a distinctive Galapagos icon: Pinnacle Rock. Spend the afternoon exploring jet-black lava fields in search of kaleidoscopic Locusts and Lava Lizards, mollugo and cacti plants, before jumping aboard the pangas for a boat safari through waters where Penguins, Eagle Rays and Sea Turtles are commonly sighted. Finally, return to the Galapagos Evolution vessel for another evening under the stars.

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND / RABIDA ISLAND

Having enjoyed another memorable evening aboard the Galapagos Evolution, first up on day five is Santa Cruz Island and Las Bachas, a pair of impeccable beaches with white coral sands found to the north of the island. In this paradise-like backdrop, all manner of creatures thrive, from Blue-footed Boobies patrolling the shore to Pink Flamingos, Great Blue Herons and White-cheeked Pintails wading the waters of a nearby lagoon. The afternoon takes you to Rabida Island, awash as it is with flaming red sands populated by Blue-footed Boobies, Sea Lions and Starfish. Take a short walk inland to spot more Pink Flamingos gracing the shores of a yellow lagoon and Brown Pelicans nesting, as well as panoramas of the surrounding crimson cliffs. Afterwards, paddle around Rabida’s eastern peninsula by kayak, seeking Sea Turtles, Striped Salemas, Galapagos Sharks and Yellowtail Surgeon Fish.

SANTA CRUZ ISLAND / CHARLES DARWIN RESEARCH CENTRE

Your final full day on this versatile Galapagos itinerary begins, quite rightly, with a visit to the all-important Charles Darwin Research Center at Puerto Ayora. Here, exciting exhibits and interactive displays go together with real-life conservation projects, including Giant Tortoise breeding and rehabilitation programs, allowing you to witness the legacy of Charles Darwin first-hand. Learn more about these gentle creatures in the Wild Tortoise Reserve up in the highlands of Santa Cruz, a place of dense, green forests awash with moss and lichen. Then, after a nature hike through subterranean lava tunnels and a Scalesia forest frequented by Darwin’s Finches, spend the rest of the day at leisure. As one of the most diverse of all the Galapagos Islands there are many highlights of Santa Cruz to explore, so take stroll along the paradise-like Tortuga Bay, or maybe a bicycle tour in Puerto Ayora, if you’re feeling active.

Espanola Island

Your voyage on the Galapagos Evolution continues in fine fashion today, courtesy of the many nature and wildlife highlights that await you on Espanola Island, beginning at Punta Suarez. Look out for Sea Lions frolicking in the water, Marine Iguanas gripping the rocks, and intriguing bird species such as Masked and Nazca Boobies, Lava Herons, Waved Albatrosses and Swallow-tailed Gulls. The vast array of birdlife here gives Espanola a reputation for extraordinary biodiversity. This afternoon, the Espanola experience continues at Gardner Bay, a pristine stretch of ivory-white beach. Armed with a snorkel or kayak, swim or paddle through the bay’s blue waters to see tropical fish like Yellow-tailed Surgeon and King Angelfish; larger marine life such as White-tipped Reef Sharks, Turtles and Sea Lions are also known to inhabit the bay. This is one of the most enchanting days of Galapagos wildlife encounters during your Galapagos cruise tour.

SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND / FLIGHT HOME

Your last day in the Galapagos with Evolution involves a visit to San Cristobal Island and the informative Interpretation Center nearby. Then, a hike up Cerro Tijeretas, or ‘Frigate Bird Hill’; a popular nesting site for both the Great and Magnificent species of Frigate. Afterwards, it’s farewell to the Galapagos as your guides escort you to the airport and assist with any luggage, in plenty of time for your onward flight.

This morning, you are picked up for your half-day private guided tour of Quito, including a walking tour of its historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, the afternoon is at your leisure to spend relaxing or exploring the city further on your own.

Private tour of Quito’s colonial churches or insider’s look at the country’s finest Pre-Columbian art collection

Spectacular horseback ride in the high Andes near Quito

2-3 hour hike and birdwatching with Naturalist guide through nearby cloud forest to see hummingbirds and flora

Overnight Casa Gangotena, Plaza Grande, or similar

Finch Bay Eco Hotel

Galapagos Safari Camp Hotel

Pikaia Lodge Hotel

Villa Galapagos 1

9 AM – 6 PM EST

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When you’re ready, we’re here to choreograph and book an amazing journey for you and your group. Our craft shines when clients ask for the extraordinary.

Evolution Galapagos Cruise

Galapagos Islands cruise

Cruise type

Motor Vessel

Itienraries

About evolution galapagos cruise.

Discover the Galapagos islands

The M.V. Evolution has 16 comfortable cabins that can accommodate up to 32 guests, providing an intimate and sociable setting for a Galapagos small ship cruise. The indoor and outdoor dining areas are perfect for getting to know the other guests over dinner, and the bar and lounge areas are ideal for enjoying a signature cocktail and some conversation. If you’re looking for some quiet time, the inside lounge features a library with plenty of reading material. You can also relax on the sun deck or in the Jacuzzi as you watch the sights unfold. Special dietary requests can be catered for with advance notice, and a buffet breakfast and lunch are served each day, followed by a sit-down evening meal. There’s also an onboard boutique where you can browse and buy a selection of items. The boarding deck makes accessing the water, for activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and getting into dinghies, easy. Retreat to your comfortable cabin at the end of each active day, ready to refresh for the next day ahead. All cabins have a private bathroom, complete with complimentary toiletries, air conditioning, and either a porthole or a window.

Evolution cruise itineraries

Prepare yourself to immerse in one of the most biodiverse locations in the world.

8 DAY ITINERARY FOOTSTEPS

• Day 1  – Saturday (Arrive to San Cristobal Island Airport- Cerro Brujo)
• Day 2  – Sunday (South Plazas Island- Santa Cruz Island: Punta Carrion / Mosquera Island)
• Day 3  – Monday (Santiago Island: Chinese Hat – James Bay)
• Day 4  – Tuesday a.m. (Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay Beach-Prince Phillip’s Steps)
• Day 5  – Wednesday (North Seymour Island – Santa Fe Island)
• Day 6  – Thursday (Floreana Island: Post Office Bay – Punta Cormorant & Champion Islet)
• Day 7  – Friday (Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Research Station – Pit Craters & Highlands)
• Day 8  – Saturday (Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove-Baltra Island Airport)

8 DAY ITINERARY IN THE STEPS

• Day 1  – Saturday (Arrive to Baltra Island Airport- Daphne Island)
• Day 2  – Sunday- (Isabela Island: Punta Vicente Roca – Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza )
• Day 3  – Monday (Isabela Island: Urbina Bay – Tagus Cove)
• Day 4  – Tuesday (Santiago Island: Bartolome- Sullivan Bay)
• Day 5  – Wednesday (Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach- Rabida Island)
• Day 6  – Thursday (Santa Cruz Island: Pit Craters & Highlands – Charles Darwin Research Station)
• Day 7  – Friday (Española Island: Punta Suarez – Gardner Bay)
• Day 8  – Saturday (San Cristobal: Interpretation Center – Island Airport)

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Evolution cruise details

Learn everything about your favorite destination

• Comprehensive pre- and post-cruise information material
• Daily buffet breakfast and lunch offering a wide choice of dishes
• Daily served dinner offering a choice of two main courses cruise
• Guides & activities throughout the cruise
• All transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos
• Soft drinks, juice, coffee, chocolate, water and tea throughout the cruise
• Lectures and entertainment on board
• Snorkeling equipment & wetsuits (shorties)
• Kayaks and equipmen
• Flights, accomodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary
• Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee – $100 USD
• Ingala Transit Control Card – $20 USD
• Beverages purchased at the ship’s bar (all-inclusive packages available)
• Gratuities to guides, crew and staff|Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
• Personal travel insurance
• Private bathroom
• Air conditioning
• Room towels
• Beach towels
• 110v Electricity point in cabin
• Safe deposit box (in each cabin)
• Lounge area
• Reading Material
• TV/DVD – Communal
• Emergency Satellite Phone
• Wetsuits for hire
• Kayaks and paddle on board (free)

This is one of the greatest and most abundant marine life snorkeling spots in the world!

By hiking in the islands, you will be a witness to land species in their Natural habitat.

Birdwatching

Meet up close thousands of endemic and exotic species on your bucket list.

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San Cristobal Island

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Rábida Island

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Santa Fe Island

North Seymour Island

Mosquera Island

Genovesa Island

Fernandina Island

Floreana Island

Española Island

Daphne Major Island

Chinese Hat Island

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The Best Galápagos Island Cruises

A cruise is one of the best ways to see all that this remote Ecuadorian archipelago has to offer.

There's no better way to cover ground on your trip to the Galápagos Islands than to sail on a multiday cruise.

Galápagos National Park regulates the number and type of tourist boats that are allowed to operate in the famously biodiverse area. This helps with overcrowding, conserving the environment, and minimizing stress on the amazing wildlife of the Galápagos. Many tourist boats in the area offer five- to seven-day all-inclusive itineraries that are strictly monitored by the national park officials. There are also cruises operating illegally, so you have to take care when choosing a tour.

To help you find a cruise fit for your wildest dreams, we've rounded up 14 of the best options, whether you prefer a small ship or bigger vessel, an action-packed itinerary or a casual drift around this remote archipelago in the Pacific.

Small Galápagos Cruises

Most of the cruise ships in the Galápagos Islands carry fewer than 20 passengers. These vessels, typically motor yachts, can't provide some of the luxurious amenities available on larger ships, but they do ensure personalized service, a more intimate experience, and quicker trips on and off the boat.

Quasar Grace

The 18-passenger Grace was once owned by Grace Kelly. She and Prince Rainier spent part of their honeymoon on the motor yacht, and now you can sleep in their bedroom, the Grace Kelly Suite, which is one of nine rooms aboard. The ship sails three routes, taking eight to 15 days, and guests get plenty of snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and panga rides along the way.

Ecoventura Letty

The Letty is one of the best full-service motor yachts in the Galápagos for value. This 20-passenger boat is a solid option with great service and comfortable accommodations. A trip on the Letty promises a 10 guest-per-guide ratio, as well as dinner with the captain. You get a choice between two seven-day itineraries, each including opportunities to snorkel, hike, and learn about the local wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

Ecoventura Origin

The 20-passenger Origin is like a floating boutique hotel. All 10 cabins are on the same deck, there’s an open-bar policy, and Wi-Fi is available on board. A unique hull design means this ship is also one of the most fuel-efficient in the Galápagos. Like the Letty , Ecoventura's Origin sails two routes around the archipelago, each lasting eight days and providing plenty of chances to get up close to nature.

Medium Galápagos Ships

If you're stuck between whether to book your cruise on a small ship or a large vessel — both have their advantages — one of these medium-sized boats accommodating 20 to 50 passengers could be the best of both worlds. You'll enjoy more space, a larger group to mingle with, and sometimes a wider variety of activities and services to accommodate more people.

Quasar Evolution

The 32-passenger Evolution was designed by Adriana Hoyos, a furniture and interior designer renowned for her work on luxury hotels across the Americas. Its cabins have a contemporary boutique-hotel aesthetic. There are indoor and outdoor lounges, a bar, and a library. Passengers can choose between three itineraries, ranging from eight to 15 days and taking different routes around the Galápagos.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Islander II

All cabins on the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II have windows, and some even have private patios. The ship offers deck hammocks, Wi-Fi, and food made with ingredients sourced from farms in the Galápagos whenever possible. Itineraries range from seven to 12 days and include cultural experiences in addition to wildlife viewing and water sports.

Large Galápagos Ships

Galápagos National Park officials have set a maximum of 100 passengers per vessel, so these are some of the largest ships in the archipelago. Travelers may opt for a larger-capacity cruise ship for more space (such as bigger hallways and staircases for easier movement around the ship) and increased services like an onboard doctor. The downside of traveling on a large ship is the time it can take to complete transfers by zodiac from the boat to the islands. Also, some areas of the Galápagos may be off limits to larger ships.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Endeavour II

The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II has Wi-Fi, a doctor, SUP gear, a clear-bottom zodiac, a free digital photo kiosk with iMacs, and a spa. Like the Islander II, food brought from the mainland is carefully prepared and packaged to prevent the introduction of invasive species to the Galápagos Islands.

Celebrity Flora

The 100-passenger Celebrity Flora features all of the design elements, amenities, and services of its sibling ships and then some. It has two 1,288-square-foot penthouse suites (the largest in the Galápagos), naturalist-guided stargazing sessions, and outdoor cabanas that you can reserve for a unique glamping experience.

Silversea Silver Origin

The 100-passenger Silver Origin is an all-suite ship with accommodations up to 1,722 square feet, some with in-room espresso machines and mini-bars, private verandas, and butler service. Tips are included in the price. The ship also has a fitness center, a spa, a communal fire pit, and two restaurants. There are more than 100 cruise options, some lasting as long as 18 days.

Galápagos Catamarans

These small boats have a unique hull design, like the dual parallel runners of a sled, that many believe makes catamarans more stable in the water.

Celebrity Xploration

The 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration is arguably the most luxurious catamaran in the Galápagos. Its eight suites and junior suites feature extras like binoculars, personal refrigerators, a pillow menu, and room service. The catamaran cruises two routes, a northern route and a southern route, both lasting seven nights.

Anahi Yacht Catamaran

The Anahi has eight rooms accommodating up to 16 passengers, including two spacious suites. Travelers can expect traditional yacht design details, like polished wooden floors and portrait windows. There are multiple itineraries to choose from, each stopping off at different islands and exploring different parts of the Galápagos. The cruises range in duration from four to 15 days.

Royal Galapagos Cormorant II

The Cormorant II can carry 16 passengers in nine cabins, all with private balconies. Some of the suites even come with walk-in closets and their own Jacuzzi tubs. Travelers can opt for a four- to eight-day cruise with inclusive excursions such as snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Live-aboard Dive Boats

If you’re a certified scuba diver, a live-aboard dive boat might be for you. These boats are built to accommodate the specific needs (and gear) of divers, and they navigate special routes and itineraries that include top dive sites. The Galápagos is home to whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, spotted eagle rays, manta rays, sunfish, and many other marine creatures.

Explorer Ventures Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer

Explorer Ventures ' two live-aboard vessels, the Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer , accommodate 16 passengers each. The Humboldt has a large dive deck, which makes it easier to get into and out of your dive gear. The eight-day excursion includes up to 19 dives and the 11-day excursion includes up to 28.

Galápagos Nortada

The 84-foot Nortada has only four cabins and can sleep eight guests. Passengers can congregate on the bridge, the galley, or in the dining room and lounge. Dive trips last either seven or 14 nights, and itineraries include up to four dives a day.

Galápagos Aggressor III

The Aggressor ships have been cruising around the Galápagos Islands since 1993. The Galápagos Aggressor III accommodates 16 passengers. Charters last a week and include four dives a day plus two land excursions.

Galapagos Cruise on Quasar’s Evolution

If you like wildlife and the Galapagos Islands is not on your bucket list… it should be. These islands off the coast of Ecuador are a unique vacation. While more and more people who do visit opt for a land-based budget tour of the Galapagos , the best way to see the Galapagos is by boat. We recently spent one week and cruised  410 nautical miles in the Galapagos archipelago on Quasar Expeditions M/V Evolution. This guide will tell you what to expect on a small live-aboard cruise in the Galapagos.

Getting to the Galapagos

Airports in the galapagos, day one – saturday – quito to san cristobal island, day two – sunday – south plaza island, santa cruz island, mosquera island, day 3 – monday – sombrero chino, santiago island, day 4 – tuesday – genovesa island, day 5 – wednesday – isla seymour norte, santa fe, day 6 – thursday – floreana island, day 7 – friday – santa cruz island, day 8 – saturday – santa cruz island.

The Galapagos Islands are 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, so Galapagos cruises start in the islands. You can fly to the Galapagos from either of the two largest cities in Ecuador: Quito or Guayaquil. Quito is a beautiful colonial city and the capital of the country. It is at over 9,000 feet in the Andes. Guayaquil is the largest city in the country and is on the coast. People who are concerned about altitude should fly through Guayaquil. We flew through Quito but more on that later.

• Guayaquil’s airport is José Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (airport code: GYE)
• Quito’s airport is Mariscal Sucre International Airport (airport code: UIO)

As with any cruise, it is useful to arrive a day early as we did so that you won’t miss your cruise if you have any flight delays.

There are two different airports in the Galapagos. The largest one is Seymour airport on the island of Baltra. This island is just off the coast of  Santa Cruz island which is in the center of the archipelago and has the largest population. You can get to Seymor airport from Santa Cruz via a water taxi or bus.

The other airport is the San Cristóbal Airport on the island of the same name. San Cristóbal is the second-most populous island. 

• Island of Baltra – Seymour Airport (airport code: GPS)
• Island of San Cristóbal – San Cristóbal Airport (airport code: SCY)

The cruises from Quasar starts at one airport and end at the other. We started at San Cristóbal Airport and ended at Seymour Airport. The next cruise would do the airports in the opposite order.

Typical Galapagos Cruise Itinerary

There are two main itineraries for the Quasar cruises. Our cruise covered more of the eastern islands and the following week the cruise would cover more of the eastern islands. The rules in the national park are that a boat cannot return to the same spot until 2 weeks later. So if you had the funds and two week’s vacation you could book a cabin for two weeks and see different islands. The one stop that both cruises would have in common would be the trip to the highlands of the island of Santa Cruz to see the giant tortoises.

We woke up before dawn on Saturday and hopped on a shuttle from our hotel to the Quito airport. There we met up with the Quasar representative who handed us the paperwork we needed like our entry forms for the Galapagos National Park. He ushered us through the agriculture and check-in process and made sure we had what we needed before we passed through security. We flew from Quito to Guayaquil and then flew onto the airport on San Cristobal in the Galapagos.

When we got to San Cristobal, Quasar met up with us got us on a bus, and took us on a quick bus tour through the town. The town started as a small fishing village it has grown as Tourism has grown on the islands. Tourism is the number one source of income with about 75% of people working in tourism.

The local sea lions feel very much at home and will just come into town… and even go into the stores. They have a fence and a gate to try and keep the sea lions down at the water instead. The city also built platforms for the sea lions to try and keep the sea lions off the boats because the boat owners aren’t fond of these somewhat stinky animals.

We took pangas (a small boat, in this case, the pangas of the M/V Evolution are inflatable zodiacs) out to the Evolution and had an orientation with Bolo who is our chief naturalist. Loulou who is one of the other naturalists says that Bolo has been doing this since the days of Charles Darwin. Loulou was the least experienced of our guides… and she had been guiding for 16 years!

After lunch, we had some downtime while the boat cruised up the island to a secluded cove Cerra Brujo (Wizard’s Hill) where we seem to have the island to ourselves except for some rather friendly sea lions. We cruised past a weathered remnant of a volcano, mostly ash but with some lava dams (vertical stripes of black lava). There were Sally Lightfoot crabs and barnacles on the rocks. Barnacles, we were told, can pinch quite hard if you put a hand or some other body part on them. Frigatebirds soared overhead.

Before every excursion from the boat, we would be told if we would make a “wet landing” or a “dry landing”. A wet landing usually meant stepping from the boat into the surf at a sandy beach. A dry landing meant hopping off the panga onto rocks, concrete steps, or a pier. You needed to know that detail so you would know what the right footwear would be.

Our first landing was a wet landing. We saw the first set of what would become very familiar tracks over the course of the week. These were the signs that iguanas had been on the beach recently. 

We walked through a cut in an old lava flow to where some sea lions lounged. This was our first encounter with the wildlife in the Galapagos. Everyone tells you that the wildlife here is not afraid of people but when it actually happens to you, it still somehow takes you by surprise.

Some went walking down the beach and some took a dip in the ocean. There were a few fish in the water at this sandy beach and an occasional Booby would dive-bomb them. Probably the most memorable experience was when we were swimming in the ocean and a sea lion came right towards us very fast. He was almost nose to nose with one of our fellow travelers before veering off at the last minute. Welcome to the Galapagos.

We got back to the boat around sunset for drinks and snacks. We had an orientation for the next day’s activities, a toast with the captain, and dinner.

Our second excursion was a dry landing and a hike on a small island off the coast of Santa Cruz Island, South Plaza Island. We were greeted at the landing by young sea lions and one older female sea lion that had been injured with some sort of bite or cut. There were also more Sally Lightfoot crabs. The main vegetation on the island was tall cactus as short cactus falls victim to the yellow-headed land iguanas that the island has in abundance.  

We walked to the end of the island past a place where the national park is trying to grow new cactuses in wire mesh enclosures to protect them from the iguanas. At the Cliffs of the end of the island is a bachelor colony of sea lions and a plethora of seabirds. We saw Nasca boobies, frigatebirds, cactus finch, and ground finch.

After a cold drink and a snack, we were issued our wet suit, snorkel, and mask which would be our snorkeling equipment for the week. 

Before lunch, we spent about an hour snorkeling at Punta Carrion, a point on Santa Cruz island. At first, the snorkeling was not that great. The place we were at was fairly deep and the visibility wasn’t terrific. I would not have guessed at this point in the trip that some of our most memorable wildlife encounters would be while snorkeling.

We worked our way down the coast of this cove on Santa Cruz Island and then came across eventually a swirling mass of colorful fish that were all in one spot. We saw angelfish, parrotfish, and yellowtail surgeonfish. We also saw two or three sharks that were white-tipped reef sharks swimming next to us or under us. They were probably about 4 feet long.

Our evening activity was on tiny  Mosquera Island just north of the airport on Baltra Island. The island had a white coral beach, ice plant, volcanic rocks, a whale skeleton, and not much else. Not much else that is except for playful sea lions that were doing an acrobatic show in the surf. They were curious at times coming up to see who we were. Some of the males were territorial with at least one of our group getting a little bite. Joan had one of the females who startled her with a bark and seem to demand a little more respect.

Our naturalist presentation before dinner was plate tectonics and island formation. All the islands in the Galapagos are volcanic islands. There are a number of shield volcanoes that rose from the surface of the ocean from a hotspot below the earth’s crust. The Galapagos Islands are on the Nasca plate which is moving to the east and subducting under the South American plate. The Nasca plate is moving at about the same speed that your fingernails grow. This action is raising up the Andes mountains. As the plate moves the location the hotspot remains the same. This causes new islands to form the islands in the east of the Galapagos like San Cristóbal are the oldest and those in the west are the youngest and most volcanically active.

One of the most entertaining parts of the cruise was our other cruise passengers. At first, we seemed to be the last to leave every meal as we’ve gotten in some interesting discussion with someone who is starting angel investing or someone who is a designer for the GAP or someone who works for the company that makes Remdeziveer or someone who competes in ballroom dancing or someone who is a trauma surgeon or someone who has run the Antarctic marathon. Many of the people are well-traveled. All are adventurous. Everyone we’ve talked to was vaccinated. Two were on their delayed honeymoon. Some are retired.

We started the day with a panga ride to Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat). On the way, we looked for penguins along the shore of Santiago Island but only found one. Penguins in the Galapagos are Small and are the northernmost of all the penguin species, crossing over into the northern hemisphere. 

We made a wet landing at Sombrero Chino next to a few sea lions and a great heron.

In case you had not already figured that out, the Galapagos is a great place for birders. Not only do they have an interesting assortment of birds, but you can, in many cases, walk right up to them. All the photos on this article were shot with either my usual Canon SLR with a flexible 18-250mm zoom lens or with my iPhone 11 Pro . It was humorous at times to see some of the better-equipted photographers carrying a zoom lens long enough that they could literally touch the bird they were taking a picture of.

As we approach the shore we saw three eagle rays. Two males (smaller) were trying to mate with a female In the shallow water.

Sombrero Chino was largely lava rock and coral. There were quite a few lava tubes on the island, mostly small, small enough for a child to crawl through. If you aren’t familiar with lava tubes, they are formed when how flowing lava cools at the surface where it comes in contact with the air, then lava continues to flow underneath until it eventually drains and leaves a hollow tube. 

We hiked around to the other part of the island or we saw a number of marine iguanas. Marine iguanas are less colorful than the land iguanas and their coloring blends in with the lava rock of the islands.

We came back to the straight between Santiago and Sombrero Chino to snorkel for an hour. The clarity of The water was much better than the previous day at the beginning of the snorkel outing with lots of different colorful fish. We saw a school of 50+ surgeonfish, so many small red cardinal fish that it looked like an underwater ticker-tape parade, small silverfish that swam near the surface and looked like bubbles going sideways.

At least one penguin joined us in the water.

We also saw white-tipped reef sharks maybe 5 feet long. As we got further down the channel the current got stronger, and the clarity got worse. Just when I was about to give up snorkeling we saw a turtle swimming in the distance below us. This was our first but not our last turtle encounter.

We took a three-hour break to have lunch and reposition the boat to the other side of Santiago Island. In general, the mid-portion of the day is when the day cruisers get access to the central islands. The live-aboard ships have access before 10 am and after 4 pm. So during the heat of the day, we would often cruise, do water activities or take a break.

Our two-hour hike was interrupted when we spotted four different orcas from the pangas on the way to the beach. The orcas killed a turtle that we came across. The guides were very excited about seeing orcas as the last time they had was about a year and a half ago. There is a resident pod of orcas but their territory is quite large.

The highlight for Santiago Island was Galapagos Fur Seals which are actually a different type of sea lion and not a seal. Fur seals were nearly hunted to extinction for their beautiful fur. They are still endangered.

We saw a number of birds on the island. There were oystercatchers, plover, blue heron, pelicans, and Frigatebirds. We also saw a number of marine iguanas.

There used to be a large population of feral goats and pigs on the island but they have been eradicated. A U.S. sea captain introduced 4 goats to the island in 1812 while they were in the area preying on British whaling ships. The population grew to 100,000 goats.

We woke at Genovesa Island which is an ancient caldera. It has steep cliffs around most of the interior lagoon.

We did a pre-breakfast beach walk at 6:30 am to see the nesting area for Frigatebirds and Red-footed Boobies. The Nasca Boobies nest on the ground but the red-footed boobies have prehensile webbed feet the can grab branched so they nest in trees. The red-footed boobies were nesting in small mangrove trees.

We saw the swallowtail gulls which fly from Patagonia to nest in the Galapagos.

There were, of course, sea lions. Christina, one of our naturalists, said the day you don’t see sea lions… it means you are at home.

The Frigatebirds are the pirates of the air. Then can steal the Catch of another bird, especially the boobies. We were told to watch for them practicing the maneuver where they poke a movie in the back to get it to drop whatever is in its beak. The male frigatebird has a red pouch that it will blow out to impress the females. It will also make a warbling noise to try and attract females that are nearby. If a frigatebird gets its pouch damaged it will take months to repair and then will have scars and that may make it less attractive to the female.

Boobies will squabble over which stick to use to build a nest like an old married couple. The male will present a stick and the female will critique his choice. My wife and I don’t fare much better during home remodeling.

We returned to the ship for breakfast and then headed to one of two snorkeling trips. One group headed to deep water with strong currents where they had a 75% chance of seeing hammerhead sharks… which they did.

The walls of the crater near the beach are covered in old graffiti from before the area was a national park. Each ship used to mark when it visited the island on the walls.

I went with the other group that was supposed to have better visibility more fish and a chance of seeing fur seals in the water. It was a great snorkel spot but got deep quickly as the walls of the crater came down into the water. We saw schools of surgeonfish, angelfish, damselfish, and many others that I can’t identify. The type of damselfish that is black with just an iridescent blue or purple was the most stunning to me.

The highlight of the snorkeling though was to turn around and see a Galapagos fur seal just out of arms reach. The seal was floating upside down just sort of checking things out. Bubbles were cascading from its fur. It seemed content to just stay there watching us for a few minutes. We also saw a green sea turtle that was about 10 feet away.

Our third activity before lunch was a kayak trip. The ship has half a dozen different two-person kayaks which they towed over to near the lip of the caldera. They then brought the first batch of kayakers over and we boarded the kayaks from the zodiacs. We paddled our way along the cliff all the way back to our boat. Only one Kayak managed to flip over in the maneuver to get back out again at the boat.

After lunch, we had a movie about one of the early naturalits in the Galapagos which about half the passengers attended, and then took a break through the heat of the day until 4 o’clock when we headed over in pangas to Prince Philip steps. This is a rather rough set of steps that let you go up through the cliffs to the plateau of the island. They are named after the recently deceased Prince Philip of England who visited the island years ago.

We hiked on a trail that brought us to the exterior of the island through bird nesting grounds, especially frigatebirds and red-footed boobies. We were on the watch for the Galapagos Owl which hunts in the daytime. We had a little success until we got near the end of our hike when bolo our sharp-eyed naturalist spotted one in the distance. We signal to the other group where the owl was and, while they were watching it, it killed and ate one of the smaller birds that are its prey.

We awoke between Seymour Island and Isla Seymour Norte. Our first outing of the day was to go see the blue-footed boobies on Isla Seymour Norte. The boobies are ground-nesting birds and to court, they do this little dance where they show off their cute blue feet. The male will lift up one foot and then the other and make a whistling noise. The female will make a honking noise in return and do the same little dance. We did finally found a couple of pairs that showed us the mating dance. We saw several more with clutches of eggs.

They were also frigatebirds and land iguanas on the island.

We returned to the ship for only about 20 minutes before we came back out to snorkel the side of the island. I saw both a reef shark as well as a sea lion, although both briefly. We saw much of the same fish as before. A huge school of surgeonfish, parrotfish, etc. We also saw the long skinny coronet fish.

Just after we got on the boat we took off towards Santa Fe Island.

At Santa Fe Island the group is split into two groups. One group went and explored the island first while the other group kayaked a secluded bay.

We landed on a beach covered with sea lions which was no longer a surprise in the Galapagos. Some of the younger sea lions were definitely curious. One of the sea lions was going up to members of our group and untying their shoelaces to play with them just like a puppy. Another small sea lion seemed To be trying to find its mother as it went barking down the beach running into and crawling over different groups of females.

We hiked past the bachelor colony of sea lions who had lost the fight for dominance and into the scrub brush of the interior. We were looking for the Santa Fe Iguana which is only found on the island and is a slightly different version of the land iguana. It is less colorful than some of the other land iguanas as we have seen previously.

We took our pictures under the large cactus on a cliff overlooking the sea Before returning to the beach for kayaking. The shallow lagoon had a number of reef sharks, a couple of tortoises swimming under the water, and some mackerel swimming near the surface. It was an idyllic spot for kayaking as it was very protected and very calm. The kayakers needed to board from the panga as the national Park no longer allows the kayaks to land at the beach where they might disturb the sea lions.

We woke off the shore of Floreana Island. Last night we heard odd tales of people who settled Floreana Island from Ecuador including a German dentist/nudist/philosopher/vegetarian who came with his mistress. He was so nervous about having a tooth infection… even though he was a dentist… that he had a friend pull all his teeth before he left Germany. A number of the stories seem to end with… and they were never seen again.

After breakfast, we went to the “post office” which is an area where you can pick up postcards to hand-deliver them or drop off cards of your own. The practice goes back to the days of the wailing ships. When ships were heading back to the U.S., for instance, they would pick up the mail as they headed out. We picked up a letter to deliver in Virginia and others picked up letters for people in their area.

We then got back in the boats and went down the beach to an area where we swam with sea turtles. It was amazing!

We had a one-hour cruise before our next sparkling stop where we swam with sea lions. It was one of our best snorkeling experiences and the last of this trip. The water was a bit rougher because the sea lions don’t like playing in calm water.

That our final day of snorkeling was one of the most memorable experiences of the entire trip. First, the turtles and then sea lions of all sizes literally swimming circles around us. This was the second time I have snorkeled with sea lions but this experience was very different than when I did the same in the Sea of Cortez. In Mexico, small sea lions were curious about us and I expected the same in the Galapagos but did not expect larger sealions to also “play” with us.

Our final excursion of the day was a wet landing on another part of the island where we got to see flamingos.

We then hiked to the next beach over which was a white coral beach where the sea turtles hatch. They generally hatch at night so we didn’t expect to see when our group saw large sea turtle tracks and tiny sea turtle tracks but the other group did see a Frigatebird break into one of the nests and eat one of the tiny turtles. Only about one In 1000 sea turtles makes it to maturity. We also saw golden rays and small stingrays in the water.

Friday was the day to see the highlands and the giant tortoises. We awoke anchored off the north shore of Santa Cruz Island in the middle of the archipelago. We hopped in our pangas and headed to the port or you can also catch a ferry to the main airport. On the way in we saw a large group of blue-footed boobies feeding in the shallows just offshore. We diverted over to see them for a bit.

When we got to the port we put our masks back on as we walked through people we didn’t know to a bus that would take us in the Highlands. Along the way, we stopped at two sinkholes that were made when old lava chambers were exposed by erosion. The weather was cooler as we were higher up and the fauna changed significantly. We so large balsa trees and a number of trees that look like large broccoli but we’re actually related to dandelions.

Where we saw the giant tortoises was one of their mating grounds which was actually on a private farm instead of the national Park. 97% of the islands is national park. This farmer had changed his fencing to allow giant tortoises to pass in and out. This gives him another source of income and restored the tortoises to their traditional meeting grounds. We hiked around seeing the giant tortoises. As we got close to the fence that borders the national park we heard the sounds of grunting and crawled under the fence to track down a giant 600 pound or so male who was mating with the much smaller female, about a third of his size.

We took our obligatory pictures with non-meeting tortoises. The ship’s crew had brought in a barbecue lunch which we ate at the farm before checking out their small shop.

On the way back to the ship we stopped at a lava tube and explored this long cavern. The lava tubes started maybe three times my height but one point got so narrow that we had to get down and crawl for about 6 feet.

Normally the ship would then have a free day in town for people to do their tourist shopping, but with the Covid restrictions that part of the trip was canceled. Instead, the ship had special permission from the National Park to visit a quiet sandy beach on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island where we spent our last time in the water. We did see a Frigatebird find one of the small turtles from a nearby nest.

We returned for a final toast, a video that the naturalist had put together over the week of our trip, dinner, and packing.

We rose early to do a panga ride to a mangrove swamp on the shore. We saw baby reef sharks and a school of golden rays. A turtle would occasionally pop up its head and the usual assortment of boobies and pelicans were fishing the waters. We learnedly the red mangroves have some yellow leaves. Those are sacrificial leaves where the plant stores the salt. That allows it to live in saltwater.

Our cruise was in May of 2021. Quasar had only been running again for 14 cruises after being shut down for 8 months because of COVID-19. Unlike some of their first cruises of 2021, all the passengers (except for 2 children) on our trip were fully vaccinated and everyone on the crew had received at least one shot of their vaccinations.

At the time of this writing, you will need proof of vaccination or a recent COVID-19 PCR test to get to mainland Ecuador. You will need a recent COVID-19 PCR test within 4 days to get into the Galapagos whether or not you are vaccinated. The timing there was a bit of a challenge and some of our shipmates had as many as 3 different independent COVID-19 tests with the hope that they would receive the results for at least one before they needed them. 

To make the cruise safer, we were not allowed to visit the cities on either San Cristobal or Santa Cruz but that would be a normal part of the itinerary in non-COVID years. 

Quito was having curfews for COVID when we were there and so the people at Quasar didn’t really want us to go into the city before we went out onto the boat. So we will have to save that for another trip.

All the passengers wore masks when we arrived, but after about 3 days we (the passengers) did relax a bit with mask-wearing. The crew remained more consistent on wearing masks. All passengers were asked to continue to wear a mask at the buffet line in the dining room.

The tourism of the Galapagos is still restarting as of this writing. Many of the live-aboard ships were anchored empty off Santa Cruz Island. Where we should have seen 3 or 4 other boats we saw maybe one other boat. It turned out to be a pretty great place to socially distance.

Before our trip, we flew into Quito and stayed for two nights at the Hacienda Jimenita Wildlife Reserve about 20 minutes from the Quito airport. 

The people at the Hacienda were great. When we arrived at the hotel room they had a hot water bottle for each of us at the foot of the bed and a fire going in the fireplace to make the room toasty. We ate our meals at the Hacienda, hiked in the morning, and lazed around in the afternoon with naps and crossword puzzles because we had an early start the following morning.

On our way back out of the country, we spent the night again in Quito near the airport at the lovely EB Airport Quito Hotel Eurobuilding .  The EB is a new modern hotel. It was very nice and quite different in style from the Hacienda Jimenita.

Friends will tell you that the Galapagos is a singular destination. Many places claim to be the “Galapagos of …”, but one does not describe the Galapagos like anywhere else. 

I will write more about the M/V Evolution in more detail in the future, but in short, it provided a memorable experience in a memorable destination. The crew made our experience a wonderful experience. From the stewards who seemed to make our bed 4 times a day, to the boat drivers to the dining room crew, all were wonderful. The 3 naturalists spent much of the day unfolding the island’s wonders to us. They did so with great enthusiasm. I know that they have done this same trip many times over many years but they do so with enthusiasm as if they were discovering it for the first time.

If you love wildlife, then you need to get to the Galapagos. If you can, you would be well-served to do so on a live-aboard ship like Quasar’s M/V Evolution.

My trip was sponsored by Quasar Expeditions for which I will always be grateful. The opinions above are my own.

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by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

3 Responses to “Galapagos Cruise on Quasar’s Evolution”

Shelley Markowitz

Hi Chris, I enjoyed re-living our Galapagos experience as I listened to the podcast. All best wishes to you and Joan- Shelley

Chris Christensen

Thanks Shelley! You helped make it a great trip. 🙂

Great travel log. My small travel company CNH Tours has chartered the Evolution for the end of April / early May 2022 – on the same itinerary you describe above. We’ve been working in Galapagos for 20+ years and are very familiar with the ship owners – they run a very professional organization. I will share your travel log with the 30 other passengers that are joining my wife and I on this “Pearson College Alumni” trip. Thanks!

BTW, entry requirements to Galapagos are changing as of 1 September 2021: If over 16, you must be fully vaccinated AND have a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours prior to arrival. 2-16: Just a negative PCR test. Under 2: No requirements.

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Tags: adventure travel , article , cruise travel , ecuador , expedition cruise , galapagos islands , quasar

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M/V Evolution

• Itineraries

The M/V Evolution is a 198-foot expedition vessel with 16 cabins holding up to 32 passengers.

The ship features stylish staterooms and suites, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a library cabin, an observation deck, a sundeck with a small hot-tub, a canopied roof-deck bar, and a medically staffed infirmary..

A special Tour Leader will oversee your yacht, and depending on the size of your group, you may have up to two naturalist guides. Sea kayaks are available for some additional fun and they carry snorkeling gear for all.

All meals are included. Breakfast, lunch are served buffet style, dinner is served either in the interior dining room or in the al-fresco dining area. All meals are served in wholesome quantities and in a variety of menus with tropical exotic fruits always available.

Two 8 day/7 night itineraries run Saturday-to-Saturday and alternate each week. Through our complete itineraries, guests are able to see all of the Galapagos wildlife that made the Islands famous and inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. You can also combine these itineraries back-to-back to experience one, all encompassing two week long voyage.

• M/V Evolution Cruise Activities:
• Walks and hikes
• Panga rides
• Sea Kayaking
• Scuba Diving - offered as an additional activity on the day the yacht visits the port town of Puerto Ayora as a day diving trip instead of the visit planned for that day

Evolution Itinerary - Day by Day - From Baltra Island

In the steps of pirates and darwin.

Day 1: Saturday

Daphne Major Islet

AM - This morning we fly to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. Flight time is just under 2 hours from the mainland. Upon arrival we board M/V Evolution where you will have lunch and a quick briefing en route to our first visitor site: Daphne Major Islet.

PM - We will circumnavigate Daphne Major Islet which is home to a variety of birds including Galapagos martins, blue footed boobies, nazca boobies, short eared owls, red billed tropic birds amongst others.

  Day 2: Sunday

Isabela Island: Punta Vicente Roca & Fernandina Island: Punta Espinoza

AM - In the morning we visit Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. Snorkeling is incredible here as a result of the nutrient-rich waters of the Humboldt Current that bathe the western side of the archipelago. We will have a chance to see colorful fish, sea lions, penguins and sea turtles in the water.

PM - Afternoon visit to Fernandina Island, home to La Cumbre volcano, which erupts frequently (most recently in May 2005). We visit Punta Espinoza, a narrow spit of land, where a number of unique species, such as flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, sea turtles, Galapagos Penguins and Galapagos hawks can be seen in close proximity.

Day 3: Monday

Isabela Island: Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove

AM - Urbina Bay is directly west of Isabela's Volcano Alcedo, where we will make an easy, wet landing (a hop into a few inches of water). We walk on a stretch of three miles (5 km) of the marine reef that has been uplifted by as much as 13 feet (4 meters) out of the water. A highlight of this excursion are the giant land iguanas and giant tortoises, as well as the opportunity to go snorkeling amongst marine creatures, or just relaxing on shore.

PM - In the afternoon we visit Tagus Cove on Isabela Island. A wooden stairway rises to the trail entrance and continues around Darwin Lake through a dry vegetation zone, and ends in a promontory formed by spatter cones. The site provides spectacular views of our anchorage in the bay, as well as Darwin and Wolf Volcanoes. The green algae underwater pastures of the cove offer the chance to snorkel with marine iguanas, sea turtles, penguins and sea horses.

Day 4: Tuesday

Bartolome Island: Pinnacle Rock & overlook / Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay

AM - In the morning we visit Bartolome Island, famous for Pinnacle Rock, where we will see Galapagos Penguins and sea lions. We will also hike a trail to Bartolome's summit where you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock and our beach, where the crystal blue waters of the bay cradle your yacht.

PM - Afternoon visit to Sullivan Bay, one of the most outstanding volcanic sites in the Galapagos. In the nearly 100 years since the Sullivan Bay Flow, only a few plants like Mollugo and Lava cacti have managed to take root in this harsh environment. Oystercatchers can be seen fishing for crabs and mollusks in the tide pools of Sullivan Bay. After exploring the lava flow, there is swimming and snorkeling with playful sea lions off two small coraline beaches. relaxing on shore.

Day 5: Wednesday

Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach / Rabida Island: Jervis

AM - In the morning we visit Las Bachas, a sandy white-coral beach that is a major egg-laying site for sea turtles. The name Bachas refers to the remains of landing craft left here at the end of WWII. Ashore marine iguanas mingle with flamingos and other wading birds in another of the many super saline lagoons found in the Galapagos.

PM - Rabida Island, commonly known by its English name of Jervis, is unique for the very red color of the beach and cliffs, beneath which one can find gliding sea turtles and perched blue footed boobies. A thick forest of Palo Santo trees sits back from the beach sheltering a yellow saltwater lagoon. Pelicans next in the thickets and brightly colored pink flamingoes graze the lagoon. A sea lion colony likes to laze on the red sands of the beach. We hike up a tiny peninsula for a wonderful view of the beach and lagoon. Sea caves invite exploration further down the coast.

Day 6: Thursday

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands and the Charles Darwin Research Station

AM - Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos and its capital, Puerto Ayora, is the economic center of the Islands. In the morning we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to visit the Giant Tortoise and Land Iguana Breeding and Rearing Program. Here we used to find Lonesome George (now deceased), the last of his particular race of tortoise.

PM - Afternoon visit to the Highlands, where the dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our destination is the Tortoise Reserve, where we will have chances see these animals in the wild.

Day 7: Friday

Española Island: Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay

AM - Española, also known as Hood, is the southernmost island of the archipelago, and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variation and number of fauna that inhabit the island. In the morning we visit Punta Suarez where you will witness the largest variety of marine iguanas in the Galapagos, masked boobies and blue footed boobies nesting along the cliff's edge, as well as the nesting site of the famous waved albatross.

PM - In the afternoon we visit Gardner Bay, a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore, and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals.

Day 8: Saturday

San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center

AM - Today our Galapagos cruise comes to an end, but before we bid farewell to the Evolution and her crew we pay a visit to the Galapagos National Park Visitor Centre on San Cristobal Island. The Centre presents a comprehensive exhibit of the islands' natural history, human interaction, ecosystems, flora & fauna and your naturalist will use the exhibits to provide an illustrated overview of life on the Islands. A short trail arrives at Frigate Bird Hill, where both "magnificent-frigates" and "great-frigates" can be seen in the same colony. Next we return to the airport where we began our journey in the Galapagos for the flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland.

Evolution Itinerary - Day by Day - From San Cristobal Island

Footsteps back in time.

San Cristobal Island & Isla Lobos

AM - Today we fly to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos in the morning. Flight time is just under two hours from the mainland. Upon arrival we board M/V Evolution where you will have lunch and a quick briefing en route to our first visitor sites: Isla Lobos.

PM - Lobos, lives up to its name of -Sea Lion Island- with its noisy population of frolicking and barking beasts. It lies just a short navigation north, up the west coast of San Cristobal, separated by a channel that forms an inviting lagoon. This is where you'll have your first chance to share the water with a playful colony of the "wolves of the sea". From lobos we should have views of Kicker Rock, a spectacular formation that rises 152 meters (500 feet) out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion, but from another angle you can see that the rock is split, forming a colossal tablet and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching. After this visit you have time for a shower as we get ready for our welcome cocktail and our first formal briefing before dinner.

Day 2: Sunday

South Plaza Island & Santa Cruz Island: Punta Carrion & Mosquera Inset

AM - In the morning we visit South Plaza Island, one of the smallest yet most colorful islands in the Galapagos. Yellow land iguanas wander through bright red carpet weed, waiting from prickly pears to drop from green cactus. Orange sally lightfoot crabs dot the blackened lava above the landing site, all surrounded by turquoise waters. We'll see swallow tailed gulls nesting along the up-tilted end of the tiny island, while red-billed tropicbirds, frigatebirds and shearwaters fly in dancing displays. You''ll also have the chance to see blue footed boobies along the cliff's edge.

PM - Early afternoon snorkeling at Punta Carrion followed by a visit to Mosquera. While Mosquera is little more than a large sandbar, it is home to a playful colony of sea lions.

Chinese Hat & Santiago Island: James Bay

AM - Morning visit to Chinese Hat Islet, a fairly recent volcanic cone; it has the shape of a down-facing Chinese hat. On the rocky shoreline of nearby Santiago, Galapagos penguins are often seen. There is a small sea lion cove on the north shore, where boats anchor and land at the visitor site. Late morning snorkeling with sea lions and penguins and swimming opportunities in the cove.

PM - Afternoon visit to James Bay, where we land on a black beach with intriguing eroded rock formations. A trail leads to a series of crystal-clear grottos with a natural bridge formed of broken lava tubes. This is the best place in the Galapagos to see fur seals and equally best place to see samurai like marine iguanas feeding in tidal pools nearby. You will find a colony of sea lions here and Galapagos hawk frequent the area. Snorkeling offers encounters with Green Sea Turtles and tropical fish.

Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay & Prince Phillip's Steps

AM - Tower Island could serve as a film set for a secret submarine base! The southern part of the island is an ocean-filled caldera ringed by the throat of a sizeable and mostly submerged volcano. The island sits to the northwest, slightly removed from the Galapagos archipelago. It is also known as "Bird Island," and Darwin Bay, where we land first, lives up to that name in a spectacular way! A gorgeous tidal grotto forms the backdrop to the gaggle of nesting and soaring seabirds birds and path leads up to the rookery cliffs for views of the bay and colonies of gulls, tropic birds and frigates.

PM - Take time to kayak beside the walls of the sunken caldera before our afternoon visit to Prince Philips Steps. This is the best Galapagos landing site to see red footed boobies, comically perched by wrapping big red feet around tiny branches. We walk a short distance to seek out short eared owls preying on swarms of storm petrels. The snorkeling at the foot of thesteps is amazing with large, brightly colored tropical fish taking on a neon quality against the black lava background.

North Seymour Island & Santa Fe Island

AM - Morning visit to North Seymour Island which is teaming with wildlife! Cliffs only a few meters high form the shoreline are home to swallow-tailed gulls. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing, where a trail will take us to see sea lions, marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds and land iguanas.

PM - Afternoon visit to Santa Fe Island, home to one of the most beautiful and sheltered bays of the archipelago, and to some of the best snorkeling - with its crystal clear waters. Certainly one of the best locations to see sea turtles, swim with sea lions and glimpse of the Galapagos White-tipped Shark. After a wet landing you will walk up to a nearby cliff to see the land iguanas through an area of Opuntia Cactus.

Floreana Island: Post Office Bay & Cormorant Point

AM - Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a Baroness among them—who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in mystery and death. We visit Post Office Bay, where in 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island's Post Office, to send letters home on passing ships. A stairway leads down into a natural lava cave where you can literally swim in a grotto under the ocean!

PM - Afternoon visit to Punta Cormorant which offers two highly contrasting beaches; a green-olivine beach and an iron-red beach. Between the two beaches is a salt lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. Late afternoon snorkeling at Devil's Crown, which is home to a myriad of marine species including a variety of corals, pencil sea urchin, wrasses, angelfish and amberjacks - making for some of the best snorkeling in the Galapagos.

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & the Charles Darwin Research Station

AM - Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos and its capital, Puerto Ayora, is the economic center of the Islands. In the afternoon we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to visit the Giant Tortoise and Land Iguana Breeding and Rearing Program. Here we used to find Lonesome George (now deceased), the last of his particular race of tortoise.

PM - Afternoon visit to the Highlands, where the dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our destination is the Tortoise Reserve, where we will have chances see these animals in the wild and explore a lava tube.

Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove

AM - Today our Galapagos cruise comes to an end, but before we bid farewell to the Evolution and her crew we pay a visit to Black Turtle Cove, a beautiful mangrove estuary where we quietly drift in our panga to see spotted eagle rays, diamond shaped mustard rays, white-tipped reef sharks, pacific green sea turtles and a large variety of shore birds. Next we head to Baltra Island airport for the flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland.

All 16 cabins have private bathrooms, individual air-conditioning controls, safe boxes.

Albatross Deck Master Suite (1)

There is 1 master suite (A1) on the Albatross Deck, with a king bed. Master Suite A1 is full beam and the largest cabin onboard. Private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. This cabin has ocean-view windows.

Albatross Deck Suite (2)

There are 2 standard suites on Albatross-Deck: A2 which features 2 twin beds and A3 which features 1 queen bed. All suites feature private bathrooms, AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. A telephone is also available for internal communications only. These cabins have ocean-vew windows.

Cormorant Deck Queen Premium Staterooms (4)

There are 4 premium queen staterooms (C1, C4, C5 & C9) on Cormorant Deck, each with 1 queen bed, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have ocean-view portholes.

Cormorant Deck Twin Premium Staterooms (5)

There are 5 premium twin staterooms (C2, C3, C6, C7 & C8) on Cormorant Deck, all with 2 twin beds, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have ocean-view portholes.

Darwin Deck Queen Deluxe Staterooms (2)

There are 2 deluxe queen staterooms on Darwin Deck. D2 features 1 queen bed and D3 features 1 king bed. All have private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. A telephone is also available for internal communications only. These cabins feature portholes to allow natural light into the cabin.

Darwin Deck Twin Deluxe Staterooms (2)

There are 2 deluxe twin staterooms (D1 & D4) on Darwin Deck, which feature 2 twin beds, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. A telephone is also available for internal communications only. These cabins feature portholes to allow natural light into the cabin.

Some hotels will let you use their facilities (gym, spa, pool, beach, etc.) for a reduced day pass. This can be great for layovers!

M/Y Evolution – San Cristobal and Baltra

Luxury Cruise Galapagos

• Itineraries
• Inquire More
• Galapagos Cruises
• Galapagos Luxury Cruises

M/Y Evolution Cruise Description:

Set along the equator, some 600 miles off the South American coast of Ecuador is a crown jewel of the natural world. The Galapagos Islands live up to our  dreams of a sheltered place far removed from the usual concerns. The skies are typically sunny, and the sea breezes create that perfect air temperature that instantly relaxes the body. The ocean is an ever inviting blue, matched by long sandy beaches of coral white, terracotta red, volcanic black and looking-glass green. There are crystal coves and quite mangrove lagoons.

Accommodation & Distribution:

The Galapagos Evolution has a capacity for 32 passengers, featuring 16 spacious cabins. All cabins have private bathroom, hot/cold water, air conditioning with independent controls, mini-bar, TV. It is also designed with twin beds or one faux queen bed and connected suites for families.

INQUIRE MORE HERE

8 days / 7 nights - baltra island, click here to read.

Download Itinerary   

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS - SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND

  Download Itinerary

NOTE:  Cruise Itinerary is subject to change due to Galapagos National Park dispositions or to circumstances  beyond our control (force majeure).

Above prices include:

All meals and snacks throughout cruise. Guides & activities throughout the cruise. All transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos. Soft drinks, juice, coffee and tea throughout the cruise. Use of snorkeling equipment & wetsuits. Use of kayaks.

Above prices do not include:

Roundtrip Galapagos Airfare. Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee. Gratuities & Tips to Crew and Staff.  INGALA Transit Control Card.  Bar consumption onboard (all-inclusive packages available).  Personal expenses.

Please be aware that the prices vary consistently due to promotions and Galapagos last minute deals , so in order to GET THE BEST PRICE for the dates you desire please fill out the request form below. After doing so, we will send you the absolute best prices for the dates that you indicate.

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