Explore One of the Galapagos Most Iconic Islands
Bartolome Island
Why Bartolome Island?
Bartolome Island offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Galapagos. The island is an extinct volcano and is known for the variety of colours in the land: red, orange, green, black, and shiny volcanic formations. Its bays are stunning with their crescent-shaped beaches and turquoise water.
It’s a two hour boat trip to Bartolome, and on arrival you must climb the long staircase towards the solar-powered lighthouse, to observe the spectacular scenery of lava and volcanic cones. The island is arid and is easily explored on foot, although the 300 steps make for a challenging if rewarding climb. The views from the top, of Daphne Major and Minor and Santiago Island are simply breathtaking.
Your trip will take you to the famous Pinnacle Rock, a huge black lava formation which has eroded over time and dominates the landscape. Gaze down on the beautiful beaches, and you will gain a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world.
From the beach, grab a snorkel and swim with sea turtle, shark, tropical fish, and sea lion. Come during the months of January to March and watch the green sea turtle coming in to the shore to nest; Bartolome is a major breeding ground for these endangered, beautiful creatures.
You will find that the beach is also the ideal spot from which to observe the Galapagos penguin and tiny red crab, keen to bask in the sun, which crawl along the rocks.
It’s a two hour boat trip to Bartolome, and on arrival you must climb the long staircase towards the solar-powered lighthouse, to observe the spectacular scenery of lava and volcanic cones. The island is arid and is easily explored on foot, although the 300 steps make for a challenging if rewarding climb. The views from the top, of Daphne Major and Minor and Santiago Island are simply breathtaking.
Your trip will take you to the famous Pinnacle Rock, a huge black lava formation which has eroded over time and dominates the landscape. Gaze down on the beautiful beaches, and you will gain a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world.
From the beach, grab a snorkel and swim with sea turtle, shark, tropical fish, and sea lion. Come during the months of January to March and watch the green sea turtle coming in to the shore to nest; Bartolome is a major breeding ground for these endangered, beautiful creatures.
You will find that the beach is also the ideal spot from which to observe the Galapagos penguin and tiny red crab, keen to bask in the sun, which crawl along the rocks.
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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