Why Santiago Island?
Two volcanoes overlap to form Santiago Island. Landing here is a delight for those with an interest in geology -- the lava formations really are quite special -- but also for those keen to see the bird nesting sites and fur seal.
At 585 sq km, Santiago Island is pretty large by Galapagos standards. It’s also relatively high: climbing to the top of the shield volcano will bring you to a height 907 m above sea level, with commanding views not only of Santiago but also of the nearby islands in the archipelago.
Puerto Egas, the bay on the western side of Santiago, has a long lava shoreline with numerous curious rock formations. Sally lightfoot crab swim in the rock pools, and sea lion and marine iguana bask on the rocks and sand. There’s some good snorkeling here, too, and you can see plenty of tropical fish in the clear bay waters.
Turtle come to Sullivan Bay to nest, and fur seal come ashore here, too. Scrambling over the rocks gives you a good vantage point, and you might well be able to see the dolphin and shark which come close to the island. In the skies, there are Galapagos hawk, plus flamingo and Darwin finch.
At 585 sq km, Santiago Island is pretty large by Galapagos standards. It’s also relatively high: climbing to the top of the shield volcano will bring you to a height 907 m above sea level, with commanding views not only of Santiago but also of the nearby islands in the archipelago.
Puerto Egas, the bay on the western side of Santiago, has a long lava shoreline with numerous curious rock formations. Sally lightfoot crab swim in the rock pools, and sea lion and marine iguana bask on the rocks and sand. There’s some good snorkeling here, too, and you can see plenty of tropical fish in the clear bay waters.
Turtle come to Sullivan Bay to nest, and fur seal come ashore here, too. Scrambling over the rocks gives you a good vantage point, and you might well be able to see the dolphin and shark which come close to the island. In the skies, there are Galapagos hawk, plus flamingo and Darwin finch.
Best Vessels in the Galapagos
Elite
One of the few catamarans operating in the Galapagos, and specifically designed for these islands, Elite offers its 16 adventurers a high staff ratio, very spacious and well-proportioned living and communal spaces and an extremely stable ride. It’s a good option for those who worry about sea sickness.
Petrel
The Petrel’s catamaran design creates the advantages of large, well proportioned spaces on board, along with excellent stability and speed. You will glide swiftly, silently and elegantly – just like a real petrel – between the islands of the Galapagos.
Evolution
Evolution, possibly the most charming of the large yachts in the region, plies the waters of the fantastic Galapagos islands on 7 day itineraries from either Baltra or San Cristobal.
Galapagos Safari Camp
A stay at the Galapagos Safari Camp is an authentic immersion into the wonderful landscape and ecology of this globally significant archipelago. You will find that the guests here are united in their desire to have a comfortable and active yet low-impact journey of discovery.
Pikaia Lodge
The Galapagos Islands are strongly protected by the Ecuadorian Government, which limits the amount of development and foot-traffic on the islands. Pikaia Lodge therefore offers a rare opportunity to stay on dry land and explore the island of Santa Cruz in depth. An island stay is ideal for those who suffer from sea sickness.
Evolve
MV Evolve, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Origin and Theory, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.
Theory
MV Theory, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Origin and Evolve, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.
Aqua Mare
Let Journeysmiths take you on a breathtaking voyage of discovery aboard this luxury superyacht in search of iguanas, whales and flamingos. Unique Aqua Mare will take you through the spectacular volcanic islands of the Galapagos in utmost luxury. Complete with sun deck, outdoor barbeque areas, jacuzzi and panoramic lounge area, this is the ultimate Galapagos experience.
Silver Origin
With one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the Galapagos fleet, the Silver Origin provides its guests with “big ship” levels of luxury and service whilst also ensuring that they have an intimate and immersive experience of the wonders of the archipelago. This vessel, specifically designed for the waters of the Galapagos, sets the standards that others attempt to follow.
Silver Galapagos
Combining small yacht charm with big ship facilities, a journey on Silver Galagos is an experience of personalised luxury whilst being introduced to this amazing landscape and ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands.
MV Origin
MV Origin, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Theory and Evolve, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.
Isabella II
The unique size and scope of Isaballa II – 55m long but with just 40 guests – gives it an individual character that stands out in the Galapagos fleet. Combining the size and amenities of a ship with the relaxed intimacy of a yacht, you will have the best of both worlds as you journey through the teeming waters around the Galapagos Islands.
La Pinta
La Pinta is a truly luxurious yacht; it is the ideal choice for travellers seeking to cruise the Galapagos in style. The yacht’s extensive crew are on hand to cater to your every need, and the facilities on board are exceptional.
Ocean Spray
We love the fact that Ocean Spray is unashamedly nautical in its styling; it’s a no-nonsense boat designed to help you see the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. That isn’t to say that you will compromise on comfort, particularly as its catamaran design inherently makes the cabins and communal areas spacious and well-proportioned.
Endemic
The MC Endemic is one of the newest vessels operating in the Galapagos and certainly one of the most luxurious. You’ll enjoy the highest standard of hospitality, food, service and guidance delivered by a first-class crew.
Private Journeys Unique to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
Who Are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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