Galápagos Land & Sea — Central Islands aboard the Xavier III

Encounter the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first weighed anchor off its shores. Explore the incredible wildlife of the Galápagos archipelago in the company of an expert Naturalist Guide. Giant tortoises, sea lions, and island birds are in abundance here, and you’ll have the chance to spot them all in visits to Santiago Island, North Seymour, and Mosquera Islands, and many more fascinating locales. In the evenings, return to the Xavier III to reflect on the day’s adventure under a canopy of stars. To finish off enjoy a night on Santa Cruz island to explore beaches and visit giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Day 1 Quito
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Quito/Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Fly to San Cristóbal Island. Meet the guide and transfer to the boat. Visit Isla Lobos in the afternoon to spot blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and sea lions.

Day 3 North Seymour/Mosquera Islet
Explore two tiny islands that are big on wildlife. North Seymour offers great views of nesting seabirds, including frigatebirds and Mosquera is home to large colonies of sea lions.

Day 4 Santiago Island/Bartolomé Island
Visit Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island to witness the giant lava formations contrasting the white-coral sand beach. Continue to Bartolomé Island for a guided tour to see the dramatic volcanic features before hiking to a panoramic viewpoint.

Day 5 Puerto Ayora
Disembark in Puerto Ayora and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to see the giant Galápagos tortoises. In the afternoon, explore Academy Bay on a boat tour. Snorkel with sea lions and walk over a volcanic path to a crystal clear saltwater lagoon.

Day 6 Puerto Ayora/Quito
Visit the highlands of Santa Cruz to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Fly back to Quito for a final night in the city.

Day 7 Quito
Depart at any time.