Luxury Galapagos Cruises
An unparalleled immersion into the natural world.
An unparalleled immersion into the natural world.
Why the Galapagos Islands?
Darwin may have been inspired by the Galapagos, but he was far from the first or last to be moved by the incredible life upon these wondrous islands.
Exploring the Galapagos Islands is not for the faint of heart. This incredible archipelago comprises 21 islands some 900 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador and is ideally viewed by boat. We favour the smaller luxury yachts for greater privacy and comfort with minimal impact to this special environment, where each of the main islands has a distinct identity and specific populations which live there. Baltra is known for its native iguana while Bartolomé Island is one of the few places to see Galapagos penguin. Remote Española has its own species of Galapagos tortoise, mockingbird and lava lizard.
At each stop, you’ll typically go ashore by Zodiac or kayak, and it’s on these shore excursions you’ll see the greatest concentration of wildlife: Galapagos marine and land iguana, flightless cormorant and blue-footed booby, sea lion, tortoise, and more. Between excursions you can snorkel among turtles and even dive the coral reefs.
Exploring the Galapagos Islands is not for the faint of heart. This incredible archipelago comprises 21 islands some 900 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador and is ideally viewed by boat. We favour the smaller luxury yachts for greater privacy and comfort with minimal impact to this special environment, where each of the main islands has a distinct identity and specific populations which live there. Baltra is known for its native iguana while Bartolomé Island is one of the few places to see Galapagos penguin. Remote Española has its own species of Galapagos tortoise, mockingbird and lava lizard.
At each stop, you’ll typically go ashore by Zodiac or kayak, and it’s on these shore excursions you’ll see the greatest concentration of wildlife: Galapagos marine and land iguana, flightless cormorant and blue-footed booby, sea lion, tortoise, and more. Between excursions you can snorkel among turtles and even dive the coral reefs.
- Incomparable beauty across 21 islands.
- Rare wildlife, some of which is only found among the Galapagos.
- See varieties of penguin, iguana, tortoise and countless species of birds.
- Luxury yachts provide privacy and a more personal experience.
- Opportunities for snorkelling and diving.
Galapagos Locations
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Fe Island
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.
Isabela Island
North Seymour Island
Espanola Island
Floreana Island
Bartolome Island
San Cristobal Island
Fernandina Island
Top Quality
T Allen
United Kingdom
"We have travelled with Journeysmiths all over the world something like 25 times and have always valued their pre-trip advice, their excellent journey planning and the top quality of their local partners for delivering wonderful trips."
Top 10 Galapagos Islands Experiences
Welcome to Eden! UNESCO built its first research station in the Galapagos in 1957, and the national park covering 97% of the archipelago is one of the most biologically significant sites on earth. The Galapagos Islands offer a unique safari across land and sea.
We’ve created an exciting list of the most memorable things to do in the Galapagos Islands.Welcome to Eden! UNESCO built its first research station in the Galapagos in 1957, and the national park covering 97% of the archipelago is one of the most biologically significant sites on earth. The Galapagos Islands offer a unique safari across land and sea.
We’ve created an exciting list of the most memorable things to do in the Galapagos Islands.
We’ve created an exciting list of the most memorable things to do in the Galapagos Islands.
1. Cruise the islands by boat
A journey aboard one of the opulent yachts cruising the Galapagos Islands is an indulgent experience as the expert crew guide you through this spectacular archipelago.
It’s all about balance, you can sit back and relax watching whales and dolphins from the comfort of your deck. Or, make like an albatross and dive right into the action. Swimming amongst tropical fish and fur seals. Whatever your choice, an exquisite meal and a tall glass will be waiting for you at the end of each day.
It’s all about balance, you can sit back and relax watching whales and dolphins from the comfort of your deck. Or, make like an albatross and dive right into the action. Swimming amongst tropical fish and fur seals. Whatever your choice, an exquisite meal and a tall glass will be waiting for you at the end of each day.
2. Paddle board at Tortuga Bay
The ‘Welcome to Tortuga Bay’ sign marks the beginning of this adventure. It points out the do’s and don’ts of the area, though your guide will have thoroughly briefed you.
Take a right at the infamous Playa Brava to a secluded gem and SUP through the shady mangroves of Playa Mansa. A feeding ground for marine turtles, eagle rays and white tipped sharks, make your way through an entanglement of roots and branches. This is the perfect spot to watch brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies and cranes.
Take a right at the infamous Playa Brava to a secluded gem and SUP through the shady mangroves of Playa Mansa. A feeding ground for marine turtles, eagle rays and white tipped sharks, make your way through an entanglement of roots and branches. This is the perfect spot to watch brown pelicans, blue-footed boobies and cranes.
3. Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano on Isabela Island
A 9-mile hike up Sierra Negra Volcano is your challenge, outstanding views across Isabela Island are your reward.
Passing diverse flora and fauna, including the brujo flycatcher and the galapagos martin, a fairly steep yet moderate climb will lead you to the summit. At the top, take a deep, centring breath whilst gazing out at the lava flows of one of the biggest craters in the world. The panoramic views across the Island from this height are simply awe-inspiring.
Passing diverse flora and fauna, including the brujo flycatcher and the galapagos martin, a fairly steep yet moderate climb will lead you to the summit. At the top, take a deep, centring breath whilst gazing out at the lava flows of one of the biggest craters in the world. The panoramic views across the Island from this height are simply awe-inspiring.
4. Visit The Galápagos Interpretation Centre and Charles Darwin Research Centre
A conservationist's dream, these centres will broaden your mind and touch your heart. The Galapagos Interpretation Centre on San Cristóbal teaches about the area's global importance, focussing on the human and natural history of the islands.
On Santa Cruz, be sure to visit the grand Exhibition Hall of the Charles Darwin Centre to learn about their almost 60 years of scientific research. Then, swoon over the baby turtles being safely raised in the centre before they are repatriated back to their islands.
On Santa Cruz, be sure to visit the grand Exhibition Hall of the Charles Darwin Centre to learn about their almost 60 years of scientific research. Then, swoon over the baby turtles being safely raised in the centre before they are repatriated back to their islands.
5. Snorkel at Kicker Rock with Galapagos sharks
A formation of jagged rocks tower above the northern coast of San Cristóbal Island. Kicker rock is waiting for you! In calm waters you can snorkel right into its narrow channel and beyond, above colourful corals and sponges where starfish cling to the rock walls.
Urchins and sea anemones peek through the cracks as stalking past the sea turtles and angelfish, an array of sharks. Galapagos, hammerhead and reef sharks patrol the area, uninterested in respectful humans they are an impressive sight to behold.
Urchins and sea anemones peek through the cracks as stalking past the sea turtles and angelfish, an array of sharks. Galapagos, hammerhead and reef sharks patrol the area, uninterested in respectful humans they are an impressive sight to behold.
6. Discover the Bellavista lava tunnels on Santa Cruz Island
On Santa Cruz Island are an underground labyrinth where molten rock once flowed. Bellavista’s “los túneles” are rich in history. Torch in hand, follow your experienced guide into the lava tubes past jagged walls, metres high and up to ½ a mile long.
It's hard not to imagine the velocity and heat of the magma that carved out these cave-like channels, a natural maze underneath the Earth's surface.
It's hard not to imagine the velocity and heat of the magma that carved out these cave-like channels, a natural maze underneath the Earth's surface.
7. Kayak at Las Tintoreras
Glide past black lava rocks laden with marine iguana, paddles silently pushing you forward as you spot manta rays and sea lions dancing in the clear waters below.
Blue footed boobies and penguins share the coast and the air fills with the chatter of happy wildlife, without fear of humans. For a moment you forget you're in a kayak, you feel so at one with nature as you discover secret coves, otherwise inaccessible with the help of your learned guide.
Blue footed boobies and penguins share the coast and the air fills with the chatter of happy wildlife, without fear of humans. For a moment you forget you're in a kayak, you feel so at one with nature as you discover secret coves, otherwise inaccessible with the help of your learned guide.
8. Get up close and personal with the sea lions on pristine white beaches
Setting foot on one of the Galapagos’ rich, volcanic islands, you may be surprised to find yourself walking barefoot along gorgeous sandy beaches. And, you’ll be even more surprised when a friendly sea lion comes to say hello!
In the absence of predators, local wildlife did not evolve a fight or flight mechanism to survive, giving you one of the most intimate animal experiences on Earth. You will share these paradise beaches with playful pups cuddled up along the shore, gazing out at the glistening turquoise waters. You can even take a snorkel and join them for a dip.
In the absence of predators, local wildlife did not evolve a fight or flight mechanism to survive, giving you one of the most intimate animal experiences on Earth. You will share these paradise beaches with playful pups cuddled up along the shore, gazing out at the glistening turquoise waters. You can even take a snorkel and join them for a dip.
9. Learn to surf on Isabela Island
Has learning to surf ever piqued your interest? The sea lions and marine iguanas invite you to start here. One foot in front of the other, lessons begin on the sandy white beach as you learn the basics with an expert instructor.
Once you feel ready, advance to the ocean. The waves off Isabela Island are perfect for beginners. Salt water in your hair, the warm sun on your skin you can expect a rush from your first successful stand.
Once you feel ready, advance to the ocean. The waves off Isabela Island are perfect for beginners. Salt water in your hair, the warm sun on your skin you can expect a rush from your first successful stand.
10. Walk the boardwalk at Laguna Salinas
It’s time to slow it right down on Isabela Island. Take a leisurely stroll along the Laguna Salinas boardwalk to the turtle breeding centre and indulge in a spot of birding.
Iguanas litter your path and play in the mud and a family of pink flamingos are close by. Take this moment to pause in quiet reflection as yellow warblers sing above. On a quiet day, it could be just you and nature.
Iguanas litter your path and play in the mud and a family of pink flamingos are close by. Take this moment to pause in quiet reflection as yellow warblers sing above. On a quiet day, it could be just you and nature.
Best Places to Stay in Galapagos
Galapagos Islands
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.
Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands
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.
Bartolome Island, 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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
Santa Cruz, Galapagos Islands
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.
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.
Accommodation
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 Islands
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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
Bartolome Island, Galapagos
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.
Galapagos Islands
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.
Galapagos Islands in Pictures
Rabida Island, Galapagos
Zodiac Cruise alongside an Orca, Galapagos Islands
Yellow land iguana, Galapagos Islands
Kicker Rock, Galapagos Islands
Turtle in the Galapagos Islands
Dinner aboard the Aqua Mare, Galapagos Islands
Red Rock Crab, Galapagos Islands
Darwin Lake, Galapagos Islands
Blue Footed Boobie, Galapagos Islands
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. 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 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. 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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