Since 1835 when Charles Darwin first set foot on these spectacular volcanic islands, the Galapagos has been inspiring travellers with its unique wildlife and ecology. I bet you can't visit without exclaiming YAY at every turn!
3 Reasons to Cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions
1. Incredible Wildlife: Known as the “Big 15,” the Galápagos Islands are home to some of the most unique species on the planet, including Darwin’s famous finches, iguanas, giant tortoises, and more. This will have any wildlife lover or photographer saying YAY!
2. Small-Ship Experience: With a maximum capacity of 90 guests, our state-of-the-art cruise ship takes travellers on an immersive, intimate journey to locations that larger ships simply cannot reach. Don't take my word for it! Check below for more information on the Santa Cruz II!
3. Explore With Experts: Our Expedition Team serves as invaluable hosts during your expedition, guiding you through a wide range of activities both ashore and onboard. And did you know that ALL staff must be citizens of Ecuador? So you know these experts have first-hand knowledge.
Galápagos Islands Expedition – In Darwin’s Footsteps
9 days
MS Santa Cruz II
LIMITED TIME: Save 22% on all 2022 Galápagos Islands Cruises*
Black volcanic rocks, white-sand beaches, sapphire-blue waters, and sherbet horizons. The amazing wildlife and rugged natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands await your discovery.
What's Included
Included in Your Expedition Hotel
Two nights of hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on day 2.
Flights
Roundtrip flights in economy class (from Quito to Baltra, and Baltra to Guayaquil. Or, you can continue from Guayaquil to Quito. Flight to Quito must be pre-booked. Please contact us to continue on to Quito at the end of your tour.)
Transfers
Transfer from the hotel in Quito to the Quito Airport before the expedition cruise, and transfers between the Baltra Airport and the ship
Excursion
Full-day nature tour to Cotopaxi National Park, including lunch
Extras
Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands
Access to the airport lounge at the Guayaquil or Quito airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands
Expedition Cruise
Expedition cruise in a cabin of your choice
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Aune restaurant, including beverages (house beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water)
Complimentary tea and coffee
Limited complimentary Wi-Fi for suite guests. Wi-Fi is available for purchase, but be aware that we sail in remote areas with very limited connections. Streaming is not supported.
Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
English-speaking Expedition Team to guide activities and provide educational information, onboard and ashore
Welcome and farewell cocktails
Onboard activities
Use of the ship’s Science Center, which has a library, microscopes, and samples
The Citizen Science program allows guests to contribute to current scientific research projects
An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
Use of the ship’s hot tubs and gym
Landing Activities
Landings, hikes, coastal exploration, and activities that include kayaking, snorkelling, and our glass-bottom boat
Complimentary wetsuit rental for suite guests. Wetsuit rental is available on request.
MS Santa Cruz II
When you are exploring the Galápagos Islands with us aboard the Santa Cruz II, you’ll enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in premium surroundings. The ship’s small size (with a maximum guest capacity of 90) offers a cozy yet sophisticated environment. It’s easy to feel at home on board.
About the Ship
Year built 2002
Year of refurbishment 2021
Shipyard ASENAV Shipyard (CHL)
Passenger capacity 90
Gross tonnage 2,664 T
Length 236 ft
Beam 44 ft
Speed 10.5 knots
Cabins and suites
Onboard the ship, there are fifty spacious cruise cabins. Each cabin has a private bathroom. There are options available for single travellers, couples, groups, and families.
LIMITED TIME: Save up to 30% on select 2022-24 cruises - Hurtigruten Expeditions*
Panama Canal & Colonial Highlights with Galápagos Islands
Transit the ingenious Panama Canal and see its system of locks up close
Discover wondrous wildlife in the biologically diverse Galápagos Islands
*Terms and Conditions
*This offer is valid for new, individual bookings created December 1, 2021, through March 31, 2022, for select 2022-2024 Hurtigruten Expeditions and 2022-2024 Hurtigruten Coastal Express cruises. Offer applies to the cruise portion of the package only and displayed ‘from’ prices are per person based on double occupancy, in USD ($) and include taxes, fees, and port expenses. Offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Onboard Credit applies to select 2022 season cruises, and is given in EUR, the currency used onboard Hurtigruten Expeditions' ships and USD on the MS Santa Cruz II. Approximately up to $200 USD per adult of onboard credit is given, depending on the exchange rate at the time of usage. Guests who do not use the full amount of the onboard credit during their purchased sailing will not be refunded the remaining credit. For full details, and combinable offers, please contact your travel advisor. Other restrictions may apply. Contact your travel advisor to book your expedition cruise.
Extend your stay
Get more out of your journey by adding a Pre- or Post-programme before or after your expedition cruise. These extensions can be added to your cruise after you have booked. I would recommend adding in Machu Picchu! Ask me how.
NOW IS YOUR TIME. CONTACT ME TODAY TO START PLANNING YOUR GALAPAGOS EXPERIENCE!
Want to know more about travelling to the Galapagos? Check out this post: Explore The Best Of The Galapagos Islands On A Luxury Expedition Cruise