Evolution · Galapágy · 7 nights
Follow in the wake of legendary explorers and buccaneers on this comprehensive journey through the Galapagos archipelago. This route explores the volcanic landscapes of the western islands, including the geologically young Fernandina and the massive Isabela, before returning to the central and southern reaches. Guests can expect a rich tapestry of wildlife encounters from giant tortoises in the highlands to snorkeling alongside playful sea lions and penguins. The cruise offers a blend of panga rides, nature hikes, and aquatic exploration in one of the world's most pristine natural sanctuaries.
The southernmost island and a biodiversity hotspot. It is the exclusive nesting ground for the waved albatross and features dramatic cliffs where the ocean surges through volcanic blowholes.
The youngest and most volcanically active island in the archipelago. Punta Espinoza provides a stark landscape of black lava where massive colonies of marine iguanas and flightless cormorants reside.
Isabela is the largest island in the chain, formed by six shield volcanoes including the massive Wolf Volcano. It offers varied terrain from the mangroves of Tagus Cove to the uplifted seabed at Urbina Bay.
The first island visited by Darwin in 1835, this easternmost island serves as a primary hub. It is home to the provincial capital and the famous Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido), an eroded volcanic cone rising 500 feet from the sea.
As the second-largest island, Santa Cruz acts as the economic center of the Galapagos. It features diverse ecosystems, from the white-sand beaches of Las Bachas to the lush, high-altitude Scalesia forests and volcanic lava tubes.
Upon arrival at the airport, guests transfer to the Evolution to settle into their cabins and attend a safety briefing. The afternoon features a panga exploration of the mangrove inlets at Bahia Borrero or the volcanic tuff cone of Daphne Minor.
Morning exploration at Punta Vicente Roca involves navigating turquoise coves beneath ancient volcanic cliffs where flightless cormorants and boobies nest. The afternoon is spent at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, home to vast colonies of marine iguanas resting on dark lava flows. Snorkeling in these nutrient-rich waters often reveals Pacific green sea turtles and Galapagos penguins among the rocky shallows.
Potápěčské lokality: Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza
The day begins at Urbina Bay, where visitors walk among uplifted coral heads and search for giant land iguanas. Later, the vessel moves to Tagus Cove, a historic pirate anchorage, for a hike overlooking the saltwater-filled Darwin Lake. The surrounding waters are influenced by the Cromwell Current upwelling, which frequently attracts cetaceans and large schools of fish.
Potápěčské lokality: Urbina Bay, Tagus Cove
Iconic views of Pinnacle Rock await at Bartolome Island, where a boardwalk leads to a panoramic summit overlooking volcanic formations. The afternoon visit to Sullivan Bay features a hike across a field of pahoehoe lava, showcasing the archipelago's recent geological activity. Underwater, the area is known for clear waters where snorkelers often see white-tipped reef sharks and tropical fish schools.
Potápěčské lokality: Bartolome, Sullivan Bay
Las Bachas offers white-coral beaches famous for sea turtle nesting and pink flamingos in the nearby lagoons. The journey continues to Rabida Island, distinguished by its unique red sand beaches and towering cliffs. Kayaking along the shoreline provides opportunities to spot masked boobies, while the reefs often feature large schools of striped salemas and inquisitive sea lions.
Potápěčské lokality: Bachas Beach, Rabida Island
Today is dedicated to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, where giant tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Guests visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about breeding programs and see tortoises of various ages. The afternoon includes exploration of the seaside town of Puerto Ayora, offering a glimpse into local life and regional conservation efforts.
Potápěčské lokality: Pit Craters, Highlands Tortoise Reserve, Charles Darwin Research Station
At Punta Suarez, visitors witness a high concentration of endemic wildlife, including the world's only nesting site for waved albatrosses. The southern cliffs feature dramatic blowholes and colorful marine iguanas. The afternoon is spent at Gardner Bay, a pristine beach where sea lions bask and the snorkeling around Gardner Island is teeming with king angelfish and parrotfish.
Potápěčské lokality: Punta Suarez, Gardner Bay
The final morning includes a visit to the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal to review the islands' natural history. After a brief stroll through Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, guests transfer to the airport for their departure flights.
Potápěčské lokality: Interpretation Center, Kicker Rock
EvolutionGalapágy