Trip Code: ECTSP6D
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
SHIP: Petrel
Ecuador, Galapagos Islands
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Standard
You will arrive at Baltra Island in the morning. You will be shown to your cabin where you will have some time to settle in before lunch and a welcome briefing.
Afterwards continue to North Seymour Island. Galapagos Sea Lions, Blue-footed Boobies and Magnificent Frigate birds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity. The island is characterized by its arid vegetation zone.
The largest in the archipelago, this seahorse-shaped island is also one of the youngest and most volcanically active. The morning visit is to Vicente Roca Point. Comprised of two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange yet fascinating Mola-mola (sunfish).
Crossing the Bolivar Channel that divides Isabela and Fernandina Islands, we will land at Espinosa Point. After walking past a colony of marine iguanas and a group of sea lions, we'll reach the island's highlight: the Flightless cormorant nesting site. This area also provides a great opportunity to see the Galapagos Hawk.
Tagus Cove is located across from Fernandina Island, near the Bolivar Channel dividing the two islands. This spot has been frequented by ships since the 1800s, using the area as an anchorage site. Trails winding by Lake Darwin up to a ridge display wonderful views. Punta Tortuga, just north of Tagus Cove, is another lovely beach surrounded by mangroves.
Urbina Bay is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the west coast, between Tagus Cove and Elizabeth Bay. This area experienced a major uplift in 1954, causing the land to rise over 16 feet. The coast expanded half a mile out, leaving marine life stranded on the new shore. This area is also a great place for snorkeling.
Elizabeth Bay is located on the east coast of Isabela Island. The bay contains many islets, which can be visited by dinghy. Penguins and Blue-footed Boobies can be spotted on the rocky islets. With an abundance of marine life and clear water, the area is perfect for snorkeling and viewing schools of colorful fish, sea lions, and perhaps even sharks.
Moreno Point is located near Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island. The plethora of birds seen during a dinghy ride along the striking rocky shores or a hike along path through lava rock leading to tide pools and mangroves create a birdwatcher’s delight. In the tide pools green sea turtles or white-tip sharks can be spotted.
The Sierra Negra Volcano boasts the largest basaltic caldera in Galapagos at 9 x 10km. The site offers impressive views and the opportunity to observe up to 7 species of finch and a rich display of vegetation. The north side of the caldera provides evidence of its most recent volcanic activity in 2005.
The Wetlands of Isabela Island are located just outside of Puerto Villamil. The Wetlands consist of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves and are home to a variety of unique bird species such as Common Stilts, Whimbrels, White-Cheeked Pintails, and Gallinules. The Wetlands can be visited on foot via a path that winds through the swamps.
Here at the Highlands, you can walk along a path, observing the hills, ferns, volcanoes, and rich wildlife. This area is home to giant tortoises, forest, mockingbirds, Bahama ducklings, White-cheeked Pintail ducklings, Darwin finches, and many other species. After this final visit, you will be transferred to San Cristóbal’s airport in time to catch your flight back to the mainland.
The newest ship in Galapagos, the Petrel offers a first-class way to visit these magical islands. Named after a sea bird common to Galapagos, the Petrel is like its namesake: elegant, swift and silent at sea. As a motorized catamaran, the Petrel is designed for comfort and stability and is fitted with spacious cabins, a comfortable lounge, and Jacuzzi. On the Petrel, we emphasize the remarkable natural history of Galapagos, selecting guides who are knowledgeable about biology and ecology in addition to having excellent language skills and client reviews.
Ice Class:
Length: 33 m
Breadth: 12 mMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 14 knots
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:16
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We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
MC Petrel - 6 Day Cruise from AUD 8,225 | ||
Enquire for exact departure dates |
Shipboard accommodation
All meals whilst on board including snacks
All shore excursions
Guiding and lectures by Galapagos Naturalist Guide
Use of snorkelling gear and wetsuits
Use of Kayaks
Champagne reception
Welcome courtesy
Exclusions
Return airfares from mainland Ecuador
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee (US$100 per person subject to change)
Galapagos Transit Control Card (US$20 per person subject to change)
Visa fees (if applicable)
Gratuities for guide/crew
Personal expenses such as laundry, on board communication (telephone calls, faxes, email)
Optional activities whilst on board
Available upon request
Contact us for more details
Season and avaiability