GALAXY ITINERARY

THURSDAY: DRAGON HILL – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: BLACK TURTLE COVE
Arrival to Baltra Island. This island is known known for being inhabited only by military members. This island is home to one of our main airports on the Galapagos. Your guide will be waiting for you upon arrival. Transfer to the boat.
➤ PM - BLACK TURTLE COVE: After lunch our first visit is to Black Turtle Cove, which is situated in the northern region of Santa Cruz. This bay is surrounded by mangroves and is accessible only by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe refuge for marine life. Black-tip reef sharks, marine turtles and a variety of rays are often spotted here. Dinner. (B/L/D)

FRIDAY: RABIDA ISLAND – CHINESE HAT
➤ AM - RABIDA ISLAND: The visitor site, located on the east coast of Rabida Island, consists of a red sand beach, a coastal lagoon behind the beach, and a loop trail approximately 1.1 km in length. The red color of the rocks and sand on the beach is due to the interaction of the very porous volcanic material with environmental factors. Rain, saltwater and the sea breeze, act as oxidizing agents, creating the red color. The scenery, arid zone vegetation and the presence of native and endemic species add to the beauty of this island. Lunch
➤ PM - CHINESE HAT: A small islet located near the southeast coast of Santiago. It’s shaped like a Chinese hat when seen from afar. It is an island consisting of a cone type “Splatter” (ejected lava drops and falls close to where it came from, which forms an inclined cone) that forms the summit and many lava tubes that run down to the coast. On the west side, you can see pillow-type lava formations, which are an indicator that the flows were formed under the sea and have raised upward, and therefore coral heads are found on the lava. This visit provides an excellent opportunity for the interpretation of geological features, such as lava tubes and lava flows. The trail is 700 m (round trip) and the minimum time it takes for this trek is 30 minutes. (B/L/D)

SATURDAY: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND – MOSQUERA ISLET
➤ AM - NORTH SEYMOUR: dry landing. Seymour was formed by the lifting of volcanic marine lava. Marine fossils dating back to the Pleistocene period are found on this island. In 1932, Captain Alan Hancock and his crew took 72 malnourished land iguanas from Baltra Island to North Seymour Island so that the iguanas could live in better conditions. In 1934, colonists verified that the iguanas were in good condition. The vegetation of North Seymour is bushy and is host to nesting Real Frigate birds of the Galapagos.
➤ PM - MOSQUERA ISLET: This islet is located between Baltra Island and North Seymour. Here, we find the largest sea lion colony; it is also possible to observe several species of birds. Enjoy the white sand beach. Hiking. Dinner. (-/L/D)

SUNDAY: SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY & BARTOLOME ISLAND
➤ AM - SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY: wet landing and hiking. Description of the place: all the road and the island is composed of lava flows that still they are virtually without eroding and they cover an extensive area, lava pahoehoe or of cords, hornitos, mollugo, this plant grows in the lava. Lava Colonizers. Snacks and refreshing beverages expect for you. Lunch.
➤ PM - BARTOLOME ISLAND: Dry landing, wet landing for the beach. Activities on this island include: walking, swimming, snorkeling and photography. We will follow a path to the top (114m) where we can observe pioneering plants, such as tiquilia, chamaesyce, and scalesia. The island has been formed by cones, and lava pipes where lava once flowed. Following the wet landing at the beach, we will take a path through mangrove swamps and sand dune vegetation, to the south beach. At the north beach, guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. From the top of Bartolome, we will be able to see the islands of Santiago, Rabida and Isabela. We will see penguins in the Rock Pinnacle. Dinner. (B/L/D)

MONDAY: GENOVESA ISLAND: BARRANCO & DARWIN BAY
* The Genovesa itinerary has been changed since September 20, 2023, due to a contingency conservation plan for the species on this island. As a replacement, visits will be made to the neighboring Marchena Island, known for its abundant flora and fauna. This itinerary will return to normal once the Galapagos National Park deems it optimal for the reception of guests again.

➤ AM - Espejo Point: Espejo (Mirror) Point is one of the most intriguing and spectacular sites in the Galapagos Islands. Its name, reminiscent of reflections and clarity, rings true: the waters are so clear that you can see the ocean floor in all its glory. It’s a prime spot for underwater enthusiasts due to its rich marine biodiversity. Visitors can admire a spectrum of tropical fish and corals of various shapes and colors.

➤ PM - Black Beach: Black Beach is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and least explored beaches in the Galapagos Islands. It’s dark sand, a result of the volcanic activity that formed the archipelago, contrasts beautifully with the clear turquoise waters, creating an unparalleled natural scene. Here, visitors will have the chance to learn about the biology of various endemic species, such as the marine iguanas sunbathing on nearby rocks.

TUESDAY: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND: INTERPRETATION CENTER
➤ AM - INTERPRETATION CENTER: Dry landing. This center is located in the main port. After breakfast, our first visit is to the Interpretation Center of San Cristobal. This modern and sophisticated architectural space was designed for the natural interpretation of the Galapagos. You will learn about the volcanic formation of the islands, evolution of species, the history of human settlement, and complex systems and management models.  Transfer to the airport. (B)

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

** This itinerary is subject to change without notice; due to seasonal changes, weather conditions or Galapagos National Park regulations. **

SATURDAY: BALTRA ISLAND – SANTA CRUZ: HIGHLANDS
Arrival to Baltra Island. This island is known known for being inhabited only by military members. This island is home to one of our main airports on the Galapagos. Your guide will be waiting for you upon arrival. Transfer to Santa Cruz Island, crossing the Itabaca Chanel (approximately 15 minutes from airport to this channel). Then, we take our private bus to Puerto Ayora. Once we arrive to Puerto Ayora, we will go directly to the Galaxy Yacht: cabin accommodation and lunch. After lunch, our first visit is to the HIGHLANDS OF SANTA CRUZ, where we will go trekking and will find giant tortoises in their natural habitat, which is an amazing natural spectacle. For this visit, we recommend good walking shoes, long pants, a raincoat, hat, and sunblock. Return to Puerto Ayora. In the evening, there will be a welcome cocktail and the formal presentation of the crew by the captain. There will also be a briefing for the following day. Dinner. (-/L/D)

SUNDAY: ISABELA ISLAND
➤ AM - MORENO POINT: Is located on the north coast of Isabela Island between Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul Volcanoes. The main attractions at Punta Moreno are coastal lagoons amid black lava  flows where there are several species of birds. It has a panoramic view of the three most active volcanoes in the Galapagos: The Sierra Negra, the Cerro Azul (Isabela Island) and La Cumbre (Fernandina Island).  Lunch.
➤ PM - ELIZABETH BAY: This is one of the island’s breeding sites for penguins. Located along the west coast of Isabela, Elizabeth Point is a marine visitor site. Visit Red Mangrove Cove: Brown pelicans, flightless cormorants, spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea lions are often seen. Dinner.

MONDAY: ISABELA ISLAND
➤ AM - URBINA BAY: This place is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano, between Elizabeth Bay and Tagus Cove. Wet landing. Trail length is around 3.20 Km; during this walk, we will observe land iguanas, hawks and tortoises. It is also possible to see red and blue lobsters. Lunch
➤ PM - ISABELA ISLAND: TAGUS COVE: Located to the west of Darwin Volcano on Isabela Island. While walking, we will find several inscriptions (names of pirates) dating back to the 1800s. From here, we can see Darwin Lake, a salt water lake with a depth of approximately 9 m. It contains no fish. It is very common to see a variety of bird species. Dinner.

TUESDAY: ISABELA ISLAND & FERNANDINA
➤ AM - FERNANDINA ISLAND – ESPINOZA POINT: Fernandina is the third largest island in the Galapagos and has only one visiting site: Espinoza Point, famous for the large colonies of marine iguanas and the home of the flightless cormorant, the Galapagos penguin, snakes, and more. From Espinoza Point, we can admire the beauty of Fernandina Island and its volcano, which last erupted in May of 2005. Fernandina is the only island that doesn’t have mammals, and the open areas are extremely fragile. January to June is the nesting period of the marine iguana, and as such we take great care while walking here. Return to Galaxy. Lunch. (B/L/D)
➤ PM – ISABELA ISLAND – ALBEMARLE POINT: Is located to the north of the Island, this visiting site is composed of two visiting areas: the first, a mangrove area between lava flows Pahohoe (lava solidified in a wavy or of accordion) and that form coves and channels. This place is ideal for a panga ride. The second point of visit is the old radar base left by Americans during World War II near the beach.
The marine iguanas (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) of Punta Albermarle and West Isabela are the largest in the Archipelago. It is an ideal place for panda ride, where you will find non-flying Cormorants (Nannopterum harrisi), marine iguanas (Amblyrhynchus cristatus), seabirds and various marine species. Dinner

WEDNESDAY: SANTIAGO ISLAND
➤ AM - EGAS PORT: Here we find a beautiful black sand beach; to the south of the beach is Pan de Azucar Volcano, whose volcanic deposits have contributed to the formation of the black sand beach. The crater of this volcano contains a saltwater lake that dries up during hot weather. Between 1928 and 1930, explorations to develop a salt mine were carried out, but it was decided that a mine was not feasible. The workers’ use of endemic woods also damaged the environment and the development was scrapped. Descent down into the salt mine is not allowed. Return to Galaxy. Lunch.
➤ PM - SANTIAGO ISLAND: ESPUMILLA BEACH & BOUCANIER COVE: The main attractions include Palo Santo wood, the beach, and the stunning landscape; the beach is a very important site for tortoises, as they use it for nesting. At one point, pigs were the main predators of tortoises’ eggs; thus, pigs were eradicated with the creation of Isabela Project. (B/L/D)

THURSDAY: DRAGON HILL – SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: BLACK TURTLE COVE
➤ AM - DRAGON HILL: Dragon Hill visitor site is located in the northwestern region of Santa Cruz Island. It consists of a 1,600 m long trail running through 3 different environments. In 1975, it was one of the only places on Santa Cruz Island where healthy land iguanas (Conolophus Subcristatus) could be found. That same year, the Galapagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Foundation initiated a program to conserve land iguanas. The lagoons found here contain shrimp (Artemia salina), the food of choice of the flamingos. During certain times of the year, shrimp are more abundant, and therefore the flamingo population increases. Lunch.
➤ PM - BLACK TURTLE COVE: After lunch our first visit is to Black Turtle Cove, which is situated in the northern region of Santa Cruz. This bay is surrounded by mangroves and is accessible only by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe refuge for marine life. Black-tip reef sharks, marine turtles and a variety of rays are often spotted here. Dinner. (B/L/D)

FRIDAY: RABIDA ISLAND – CHINESE HAT
➤ AM - RABIDA ISLAND: The visitor site, located on the east coast of Rabida Island, consists of a red sand beach, a coastal lagoon behind the beach, and a loop trail approximately 1.1 km in length. The red color of the rocks and sand on the beach is due to the interaction of the very porous volcanic material with environmental factors. Rain, saltwater and the sea breeze, act as oxidizing agents, creating the red color. The scenery, arid zone vegetation and the presence of native and endemic species add to the beauty of this island. Lunch
➤ PM - CHINESE HAT: A small islet located near the southeast coast of Santiago. It’s shaped like a Chinese hat when seen from afar. It is an island consisting of a cone type “Splatter” (ejected lava drops and falls close to where it came from, which forms an inclined cone) that forms the summit and many lava tubes that run down to the coast. On the west side, you can see pillow-type lava formations, which are an indicator that the flows were formed under the sea and have raised upward, and therefore coral heads are found on the lava. This visit provides an excellent opportunity for the interpretation of geological features, such as lava tubes and lava flows. The trail is 700 m (round trip) and the minimum time it takes for this trek is 30 minutes. (B/L/D)

SATURDAY: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND – MOSQUERA ISLET
➤ AM - NORTH SEYMOUR: dry landing. Seymour was formed by the lifting of volcanic marine lava. Marine fossils dating back to the Pleistocene period are found on this island. In 1932, Captain Alan Hancock and his crew took 72 malnourished land iguanas from Baltra Island to North Seymour Island so that the iguanas could live in better conditions. In 1934, colonists verified that the iguanas were in good condition. The vegetation of North Seymour is bushy and is host to nesting Real Frigate birds of the Galapagos. Transfer to the airport.  (B/-/-)

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

** This itinerary is subject to change without notice; due to seasonal changes, weather conditions or Galapagos National Park regulations. **

SATURDAY: BALTRA ISLAND– MOSQUERA ISLET
Arrive to Baltra Island. Reception at airport. Transfer in. Welcome on board Galaxy Cruise Welcome drink and lunch.
➤ PM - MOSQUERA ISLET: This islet is located between Baltra Island and North Seymour. Here, we find the largest sea lion colony; it is also possible to observe several species of birds. Enjoy the white sand beach. Hiking. Dinner. (-/L/D)

SUNDAY: SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY & BARTOLOME ISLAND
➤ AM - SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY: wet landing and hiking. Description of the place: all roads and the island are composed of lava flows that are still virtually without erosion, covering an extensive area, including lava pahoehoe or cords, hornitos, and mollugo, which grows in the lava. Lava Colonizers. Snacks and refreshing beverages await you. Lunch.
➤ PM - BARTOLOME ISLAND: Dry landing, wet landing for the beach. Activities on this island include: walking, swimming, snorkeling and photography. We will follow a path to the top (114m) where we can observe pioneering plants, such as tiquilia, chamaesyce, and scalesia. The island has been formed by cones, and lava pipes where lava once flowed. Following the wet landing at the beach, we will take a path through mangrove swamps and sand dune vegetation, to the south beach. At the north beach, guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. From the top of Bartolome, we will be able to see the islands of Santiago, Rabida and Isabela. We will see penguins in the Rock Pinnacle. Dinner (B/L/D)

MONDAY: GENOVESA ISLAND: BARRANCO & DARWIN BAY
* The Genovesa itinerary has been changed since September 20, 2023, due to a contingency conservation plan for the species on this island. As a replacement, visits will be made to the neighboring Marchena Island, known for its abundant flora and fauna. This itinerary will return to normal once the Galapagos National Park deems it optimal for the reception of guests again.

➤ AM - Espejo Point: Espejo (Mirror) Point is one of the most intriguing and spectacular sites in the Galapagos Islands. Its name, reminiscent of reflections and clarity, rings true: the waters are so clear that you can see the ocean floor in all its glory. It’s a prime spot for underwater enthusiasts due to its rich marine biodiversity. Visitors can admire a spectrum of tropical fish and corals of various shapes and colors.

➤ PM - Black Beach: Black Beach is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and least explored beaches in the Galapagos Islands. It’s dark sand, a result of the volcanic activity that formed the archipelago, contrasts beautifully with the clear turquoise waters, creating an unparalleled natural scene. Here, visitors will have the chance to learn about the biology of various endemic species, such as the marine iguanas sunbathing on nearby rocks.

TUESDAY: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND: INTERPRETATION CENTER – TRANSFER OUT
➤ AM - INTERPRETATION CENTER: Dry landing. This center is located in the main port. After breakfast, our first visit is to the Interpretation Center of San Cristobal. This modern and sophisticated architectural space was designed for the natural interpretation of the Galapagos. You will learn about the volcanic formation of the islands, evolution of species, the history of human settlement, and complex systems and management models. Transfer out.  (B/-/-)

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

** This itinerary is subject to change without notice; due to seasonal changes, weather conditions or Galapagos National Park regulations. **

SATURDAY: BALTRA ISLAND– MOSQUERA ISLET
Arrive to Baltra Island. Reception at airport. Transfer IN. Welcome on board Galaxy Cruise. Welcome drink and lunch.
➤ PM - MOSQUERA ISLET: This islet is located between Baltra Island and North Seymour. Here, we find the largest sea lion colony; it is also possible to observe several species of birds. Enjoy the white sand beach. Hiking. Dinner. (-/L/D)

SUNDAY: SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY & BARTOLOME ISLAND
➤ AM - SANTIAGO ISLAND: SULLIVAN BAY: wet landing and hiking. Description of the place: all the road and the island is composed of lava flows that still they are virtually without eroding and they cover an extensive area, lava pahoehoe or of cords, hornitos, mollugo, this plant grows in the lava. Lava Colonizers. Snacks and refreshing beverages expect for you. Lunch.
➤ PM - BARTOLOME ISLAND: Dry landing, wet landing for the beach. Activities on this island include: walking, swimming, snorkeling and photography. We will follow a path to the top (114m) where we can observe pioneering plants, such as tiquilia, chamaesyce, and scalesia. The island has been formed by cones, and lava pipes where lava once flowed. Following the wet landing at the beach, we will take a path through mangrove swamps and sand dune vegetation, to the south beach. At the north beach, guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling. From the top of Bartolome, we will be able to see the islands of Santiago, Rabida and Isabela. We will see penguins in the Rock Pinnacle. Dinner. (B/L/D)

MONDAY: GENOVESA ISLAND: BARRANCO & DARWIN BAY
➤ AM - BARRANCO: dry landing, activities: hiking. Also known as Prince Felipe’s stairs. Here, we will have a walk for the Barranco path. In our journey we will observe tropical birds, petrels, common frigate, red-foot boobies, mask boobies, dove, and finches. Return to Galaxy. Lunch
➤ PM - DARWIN BAY: wet landing, coral beach, activities for this day: short walks, photography, swimming, snorkeling. Genovesa is a small island in the northern part of the Galapagos. Our landing in Darwin Bay will be wet. Near the beach is a mangrove swamp where we will find a colony of frigate birds, marine iguanas, red-footed boobies and masked boobies, the great terrestrial finch, seagulls, herons and cactus finches. Following the land visit, our passengers can enjoy a swim in the bay. Snacks and refreshments are available. Dinner. (B/L/D)

TUESDAY: SAN CRISTOBAL ISLAND: INTERPRETATION CENTER & LOBOS ISLANDS
➤ AM - INTERPRETATION CENTER: Dry landing. This center is located in the main port. After breakfast, our first visit is to the Interpretation Center of San Cristobal. This modern and sophisticated architectural space was designed for the natural interpretation of the Galapagos. You will learn about the volcanic formation of the islands, evolution of species, the history of human settlement, and complex systems and management models.
➤ PM - LOBOS ISLAND: Panga Ride, swimming and snorkeling. Here, we can walk, swim and snorkel among the seals, frigate birds, marine iguanas, lava lizards, and the small endemic Galapagos snake. (B/L/D)

WEDNESDAY: ESPAÑOLA ISLAND
➤ AM - GARDNER BAY: wet landing. Activities during this visit: short walk, swimming, snorkeling and observation of seal colony. The sea lion is one of the animals that receives a lot of attention from visitors in the Galapagos: they are curious and playful, but at times aggressive; they are nice and loving, but also lazy. We are going to find many of them relaxing on the beach enjoying the sun in Gardner Bay.
In addition to observing these fascinating animals, we will be able to swim with sea lions, sea turtles, a diversity of tropical fish, marine iguanas, etc. while snorkeling. We will return to the ship and sail to Gardner and Osborn Islets. Lunch.
➤ PM - SUAREZ POINT: dry landing. Activities: Walking, sight-seeing. We recommend athletic shoes, hat or cap, and sunscreen. There is no color more amazing and outstanding in this tropical desert island than that of the blue-foot boobies. These birds have an impressive form of “greeting,” and it is a real thrill to see their mating dance. The blue-footed booby can be seen on several islands, as nesting grounds and food are located along several coastal locations. The albatross, an aristocratic bird weighing up to four kilograms, can be observed here. This is one of the largest birds of the islands, with approximately 12,000 couples nesting on Espanola Island and a smaller number nesting on Silver Island, near mainland Ecuador. This species is considered endemic to this island. During our walk, we will observe these fantastic birds while taking in the beautiful landscapes offered by this island. It is important to note that albatrosses will not be seen between January and March (non-breeding season). We will also see colonies of marine iguanas, zayapas, masked boobies, finches, Espanola mockingbirds, and seagulls endemic to the islands. Our walk will be along lava rock, where we will be able to see lava tubes. Red mangroves are found here. Delicious snacks and fresh beverages are waiting for you on the ship. Dinner. (B/L/D)

THURSDAY: FLOREANA ISLAND
Breakfast early in the morning. Our first visit will be:
➤ AM - POST OFFICE: (Mail Bay): Wet landing. Activities: short walk, swimming, snorkeling, explanation of the mail system. Description: Mail Bay is located on the north side of Floreana Island. Captain James Colnett installed an empty barrel to be used as a post office for the whaling fleets that stopped at the Galapagos Islands. You can leave postcards to your friends and relatives here and/or pick up mail to deliver. Back at the ship, delicious snacks and beverages await.
➤ PM - CORMORANT POINT: wet landing, snorkeling and short trek. This point is located on western Floreana Island, and it is famous for its dark green beach (due to the large quantity of olivine crystals).You can see many marine invertebrates here, as well as sea lions, sea iguanas, frigate birds and pelicans.
Second visit: DEVIL’S CROWN: Activities here include: panga ride and optional swimming. Enjoy a panga ride around a small island, a satellite islet of Floreana Island. Here, we will find a group of rocks that resemble a crown due to the constant erosion caused by the sea. It is one of the better places to snorkel (shallow diving) in and around the crown. Excellent visibility allows guests to admire a great variety of fish and sea animals. Dinner. (B/L/D)

FRIDAY: SANTA FE ISLAND & SOUTH PLAZAS ISLAND
➤ AM - SANTA FE: Wet landing, activities on this day: hiking, swimming and snorkeling. With 24 km2 and 60 m above sea level, this central island is a unique place to visit. It has an incredible bay with turquoise water, protected by a natural barrier of rocks. You will see colonies of seals, while hawks fly overhead. This island is home to one of two species of land iguanas found in the Galapagos. Their main food source is the leaves and fruit of the large, thick cacti found here. Crabs, nocturnal herons, marine iguanas, mockingbirds and land doves are frequently seen. The bay is an excellent place to swim and snorkel. Marine tortoises, rays, sea lions and tropical fish are an amazing attraction! Snacks and refreshing beverages are waiting for you aboard the ship. Lunch. Navigate to South Plazas Island.
➤ PM - SOUTH PLAZAS: two small islands created by uplifting of the land. The land iguanas are smaller here; nesting during the warm season. The hike runs along an extraordinary cliff where seabirds nest. There are approximately 1,000 sea lions (Zalophus Wollebaeki) located on the south side of Plazas Island. Dinner. (B/L/D)

SATURDAY: SANTA CRUZ ISLAND
Breakfast is very early in the morning. Luggage and belongings should be ready for checkout, our last visit: CHARLES DARWIN STATION.
➤ AM - Charles Darwin Station: located in the main port on Santa Cruz Island; we will take a private bus to the entrance of the breeding center where we will see tortoises and land iguanas in captivity. This center is the main breeding site on the islands. Animals that were in danger of extinction on various islands are maintained here in captivity. Thanks to the dedicated work of several institutions, some species are being saved. This is where Lonesome George lived, the famous last survivor of the species of giant tortoise found on Pinta Island. Transfer to the airport. (B/-/-)

B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner

** This itinerary is subject to change without notice; due to seasonal changes, weather conditions or Galapagos National Park regulations. **