La Pinta Galapagos Cruise travelers walk over hardened black lava field near brown mountains on a cloudy day.
Two people admire and photograph sea lions that are sunbathing on the Galapagos Islands
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South America Galapagos Islands Cruise

La Pinta Galapagos Cruises

The gorgeous 209-foot expedition yacht La Pinta is home away from home during 5- and 7-day La Pinta Galapagos Cruises. Enjoy a sophisticated, upscale travel experience aboard the 48-guest expedition yacht, with 24 cabins known to be some of the largest in the Galapagos. Spacious and family friendly for Galapagos family cruises, La Pinta is the result of generations of experience and thoughtfulness by captains, expedition leaders, hotel managers and guests combined.

She is suited for environmentally friendly operation in the Galapagos National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve and offers an expedition experience that bonds nature and discovery. Enjoy intimate contact with the natural world; a vast ocean to navigate; activities like snorkeling, swimming, whale and dolphin watching; riding in a glass-bottom boat; and full days of wildlife viewing, led by naturalist field experts. In the quiet evenings enjoy being pampered aboard La Pinta, with dinner followed by naturalist lectures, stargazing on the sky deck, reading a book from the library, emailing loved ones with free WiFi or enjoying a cocktail in the lounge. 

The 7-day La Pinta Western Galapagos Islands Cruise aboard La Pinta is the perfect balance of iconic Galapagos highlights. Visit Baltra, North Seymour, Fernandina, Isabela, Rabida, Santa Cruz and Floreana Islands. Highlights include the young western islands with their volcanic landscapes and special wildlife including hawks, penguins and flightless cormorants. Seek out whales in the Bolivar Channel and various species of Darwin’s finches on the red-sand-beach of Rabida. And send a postcard home via the barrel on Floreana’s Post Office Bay.

The 5-day La Pinta Eastern Galapagos Islands Cruise begins in Baltra, visits South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Espanola and Santa Cruz islands. Highlights include swimming from the idyllic white-sand beach of Santa Fe, visiting giant tortoises in the forests of San Cristobal and walking over the lava/boulder terrain of Punta Suarez (where waved albatross can be seen April through January).

The 5-day La Pinta Northern Galapagos Islands itinerary sails round-trip from Baltra and focuses on the islands of Santa Cruz, Santiago, Bartolome and Genovesa with highlights like Pinnacle Rock, Prince Philip’s Steps, Darwin Bay and the Santa Cruz Highlands. Explore the rarely visited Eden Islet with its volcanic debris and blue-footed boobies. Hike the often-photographed Bartolome Island for sweeping views of its Pinnacle Rock. And birders can delight in Genovesa’s abundance of avian species.

La Pinta’s three Galapagos cruise itineraries can be combined in various ways to create longer 9-, 11- or 15-day cruises. View the Itinerary for more details, and contact our Galapagos small ship cruise experts for the inside scoop on which route is best for you. AdventureSmith Explorations’ award-winning crew has personal experience sailing in the Galapagos Islands and can recommend the best options to suit your travel interests and timeline.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises and Galapagos trips.



Itinerary

7-Day West Itinerary

The 7-day La Pinta Western Galapagos Islands Cruise operates round-trip from Baltra and visits North Seymour, Fernandina, Isabela, Rabida, Santa Cruz and Floreana Islands.

Route map for La Pinta 7-Day West Galapagos Cruise with visits to Baltra, North Seymour, Fernandina, Isabela, Rabida, Santa Cruz and Floreana Islands.
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Day 1
FRI - Embark Baltra to North Seymour

This Galapagos adventure begins with a morning flight to Baltra Island and immediate transfer to the dock to board the yacht La Pinta for an introductory welcome briefing, boat drill, cabin assignment and lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk along the coast of North Seymour Island, then to the interior of this beautiful flat island, observing numerous bird colonies as well as sea lions and land iguanas. There are also opportunities for coastal exploration by dinghy. In the evening, enjoy a briefing, welcome cocktail and dinner.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
SAT - Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela) & Punta Espinoza (Fernandina)

Begin today at Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. Since there is no landing site at this location, the coastal exploration is by dinghy, while a naturalist guide explains the dramatic geology of the area, remains of lava flows and tuff stone layers. There is abundant wildlife and, depending on the conditions of the ocean, possible snorkeling along the cliffs, hopefully in the company of green sea turtles.

In the afternoon, visit the youngest and most pristine island of the archipelago, Fernandina, an all-time favorite. Explore Punta Espinoza with its amazing combination of barren terrain and abundant wildlife. Highlights include seeing hawks, penguins, flightless cormorants and astounding views of the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
SUN - Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove (Isabela)

After breakfast, disembark at Urbina Bay, on the western side of Isabela Island, the result of an uplifting of the ocean floor. Observe corals, shells and colorful Galapagos land iguanas, as well as (occasionally) giant tortoises. While the yacht navigates the Bolivar Channel, there are good chances of spotting several species of whales.

This afternoon, enjoy the secluded Tagus Cove on the northwest of Isabela, a favorite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries and now a great visitor site. Snorkel or ride kayaks amid the dramatic landscape then hike uphill to the back of Darwin Crater, which is filled with salt water.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
MON - Rabida & Cerro Dragón (Santa Cruz)

In the morning, disembark at Rabida Island’s red-colored beach. Stroll along the beach and observe marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s finches. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, while non-snorkelers can ride the glass-bottom boat for an exploration of life underneath the waves.

After lunch, explore the north shore of Santa Cruz, which hosts the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). The walk includes circling a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, while farther inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as the chance to observe land iguanas.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
TUE - Darwin Research Station & Highlands (Santa Cruz)

This morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise pens within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest. These are the Galapagos’s headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. A delicious lunch is served poolside at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel.

After lunch, head up to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island by vehicle, a great place to look for the emblematic Darwin’s finches and the endemic scalesia trees. The highlands are also great for exploring the exuberant vegetation where giant tortoises roam in the wild – surely one of the most remembered visits of the whole voyage.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
WED - Post Office Bay, Champion Islet & Punta Cormorant (Floreana)

After breakfast, land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries. Enjoy a dinghy ride along the maze of channels on Floreana’s north shore. Take in the views from La Lobería and the Baroness Viewpoint and enjoy great kayaking and swimming from the beach as well.

This afternoon, snorkel or ride in the glass-bottom boat along the coast of an extinct cone called Champion Islet. Later, visit Punta Cormorant, an olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk by a brackish water lagoon where bird species like greater flamingos may be observed. On the other side of the island, enjoy a white-sand beach where sea turtles come out at night to nest.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
THU - Disembark Baltra

End at Baltra Island, where you will be transferred to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals; soft drinks (juices and carbonated drinks, not “virgin” cocktails); island sightseeing; naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish only; wetsuit rental; snorkeling gear; internet (internet connections onboard consist of 2 computer stations in the library and Wi-Fi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos Islands’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth); luggage handling; medical care on board (excluding cost of medication); taxes and transfers in the islands; shared transfers from main hotels in Quito (Casa Gangotena, Hilton Colon, Mercure, Sheraton, JW Marriott, Dann Carlton; for Casa Gangotena, a further feeder service is provided to/from Hilton Colón, this service does not have additional cost) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Sheraton, Wyndham) to airport for flights to/from Galapagos.

Exclusions

Air transportation to/from Galapagos and airport taxes (subject to change without previous notice); Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US $200 cash per adult and $100 for children under 12 years old); TCT-Galapagos Transit Control Card (US $20 subject to change without previous notice); fuel surcharge ($20 per person, per day in 2024 or $25 per person, per day in 2025); insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages (guests who wish to bring bottles of wine and/or spirits aboard incur a corkage fee of US $28(2024) or $29(2025)+taxes); gratuities; laundry; valet service; gifts and items of a personal nature.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

Most flights to the Galapagos will depart Quito or Guayaquil between 6:00am and 11:00am on Day 1 and return between 2:00pm and 6:00pm on the final day. We highly recommend travelers arrive to Ecuador two days prior to their Galapagos cruise. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip concludes.

Internal Flights

Flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.

Activities

There are numerous opportunities to hike, kayak, swim and snorkel. The underwater experience is an integral part of any Galapagos cruise. We encourage all travelers to try snorkeling. Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, floating vest and net bag) are provided. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December.

Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (inflatable skiffs). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. 3 Luxury Cabins are available for single use at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate, based upon availability. Luxury Plus Triple Cabins for double occupancy incur a 50% supplement per person (100% per person during peak season).

Families & Children

Kids 6 years and older are welcomed aboard the yacht La Pinta. Kids under 12 years old at the time of sailing receive 10% off when sharing the cabin with 2 adults (applies only to one child per adult paying full fare). No child discounts apply on Peak Season dates, when an additional fee of $175 (2024) per child is incurred.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered.  The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

5-Day East Itinerary

The 5-day La Pinta Eastern Galapagos Islands Cruise operates round-trip from Baltra and visits South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Espanola and Santa Cruz islands.

Route map for La Pinta 5-Day East Galapagos Cruise with visits to Baltra,, South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, Espanola and Santa Cruz islands.
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Day 1
THU- Embark Baltra to South Plaza

Arrive to Baltra Island on a morning flight and immediate transfer to the dock to board the yacht La Pinta. There is a welcome introductory briefing, boat drill, cabin assignment and then lunch. In the afternoon, sail to South Plaza Island, where the turquoise waters of the channel contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline. A carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus beyond, populated by yellow-grey land iguanas. Along the coastline, look for sea lion colonies lounging and seabirds playing with the thermals that form along the cliffs of this small but spectacular island.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
FRI - Santa Fe & Cerro Colorado Tortoise Habitat (San Cristobal)

This morning, take a dinghy to the idyllic sandy-white beach of Santa Fe Island, populated by colonies of sea lions. Galapagos hawks are often observed, perched atop salt bushes. The Santa Fe land iguana, unique to just this island, may be spotted during this morning’s walk. Snorkel and swim along a natural wave barrier or ride the glass-bottom boat.

After lunch, disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island’s capital, and drive 40 minutes to the island’s southern shore. At Cerro Colorado, visit the breeding center for highly endangered giant tortoises in the midst of a fantastic deciduous forest, home to dozens of bird species, including the San Cristobal mockingbird and the San Cristobal lava lizard, both island endemics.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
SAT - Punta Pitt & Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal)

Begin today on the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island at Punta Pitt, taking a trail that ascends from the beach to spectacular views above the shoreline. Observe frigatebirds and a colony of bachelor sea lions. If conditions are favorable, there is a chance to swim from the beach and snorkel. Following lunch on board, enjoy a dinghy ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers to Cerro Brujo’s expansive, white coral beach. Enjoy a walk with rewarding bird-watching, featuring seabirds and shore birds. Also, look out for Galapagos sea lions lounging on the same shores Charles Darwin walked in September 1835.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
SUN - Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay (Espanola)

This morning’s outing at Punta Suarez on Espanola Island is an exciting walk on lava/boulder terrain to visit its unique seabird colonies, including the waved albatross (April-January), boobies and swallow-tail gulls, as well as the famous “blowhole” lava formation. Keep an eye out for red-green-black marine iguanas. Many regard this site as the best in the Galapagos!

After lunch on board, enjoy a short walk along Gardner Bay, a beautiful, white coral beach, and observe sea lions, mockingbirds and finches, and swim at the beach. There is great snorkeling in this area, or else there’s time to kayak or ride the glass-bottom boat.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
MON - Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) to Baltra

In the morning, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the captive rearing program for the giant tortoises. Witness the efforts and results of Galapagos fieldwork and studies done in the name of science. Transfer via bus across Santa Cruz Island and take a short ferry ride to Baltra. The journey ends at Baltra Island, where you will be transferred to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals; soft drinks (juices and carbonated drinks, not “virgin” cocktails); island sightseeing; naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish only; wetsuit rental; snorkeling gear; internet (internet connections onboard consist of 2 computer stations in the library and Wi-Fi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos Islands’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth); luggage handling; medical care on board (excluding cost of medication); taxes and transfers in the islands; shared transfers from main hotels in Quito (Casa Gangotena, Hilton Colon, Mercure, Sheraton, Marriott, Dann Carlton; for Casa Gangotena, a further feeder service is provided to/from Hilton Colón, this service does not have additional cost) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Sheraton, Wyndham) to airport for flights to/from Galapagos.

Exclusions

Air transportation to/from Galapagos and airport taxes (subject to change without previous notice); Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US $200 cash per adult and $100 for children under 12 years old) TCT-Galapagos Transit Control Card (US $20 subject to change without previous notice); fuel surcharge ($20 per person, per day in 2024 or $25 per person, per day in 2025); insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages (guests who wish to bring bottles of wine and/or spirits aboard incur a corkage fee of US $28(2024) or $29(2025)+taxes); gratuities; laundry; valet service; gifts and items of a personal nature.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

Most flights to the Galapagos will depart Quito or Guayaquil between 6:00am and 11:00am on Day 1 and return between 2:00pm and 6:00pm on the final day. We highly recommend travelers arrive to Ecuador two days prior to their Galapagos cruise. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip concludes.

Internal Flights

Flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.

Activities

There are numerous opportunities to hike, kayak, swim and snorkel. The underwater experience is an integral part of any Galapagos cruise. We encourage all travelers to try snorkeling. Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, floating vest and net bag) are provided. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December.

Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (inflatable skiffs). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. 3 Luxury Cabins are available for single use at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate, based upon availability. Luxury Plus Triple Cabins for double occupancy incur a 50% supplement per person (100% per person during peak season).

Families & Children

Kids 6 years and older are welcomed aboard the yacht La Pinta. Kids under 12 years old at the time of sailing receive 10% off when sharing the cabin with 2 adults (applies only to one child per adult paying full fare). No child discounts apply on Peak Season dates, when an additional fee of $175 (2024) per child is incurred.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered.  The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

5-Day North Itinerary

The 5-day La Pinta Northern Galapagos Islands itinerary operates round-trip from Baltra and visits Santa Cruz, Santiago, Bartolome and Genovesa.

Route map for La Pinta 5-Day North Galapagos Cruise with visits to Baltra, Santa Cruz, Santiago, Bartolome and Genovesa Islands.
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Day 1
MON - Baltra to Tortoise Reserve & Highlands (Santa Cruz)

Following a morning arrival at Baltra airport, transfer to the Itabaca Channel for a small ferry ride across the channel to the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. Enjoy a bus ride to the highlands to learn about Santa Cruz’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Lunch is served at a local restaurant. Please dress comfortably upon arrival: wear walking shoes, bring sun protection and a small backpack with any essentials for the day. You will be reunited with your luggage in the evening upon embarkation.

After lunch, continue by bus to a reserve that is one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, too. A short bus ride takes you down to Puerto Ayora to board yacht La Pinta.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
TUE - Eden Islet & Chinese Hat (Santa Cruz)

After breakfast, take a panga ride to Eden Islet located off the coast of Santa Cruz to spot blue-footed boobies diving into the water, reef sharks and frigatebirds. There’s a chance to snorkel and, if weather conditions permit, to ride in the glass-bottom boat. The volcanic setting of this area is quite stunning due to its variety of volcanic debris, including cinder cones, tuff cones and semi-eroded lava flows.

This afternoon, visit Chinese Hat, the tiny island that gets its name from its appearance. This islet, formed fairly recently, boasts beautiful wildlife viewing along a trail approximately 0.2 miles long, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities amid white-tipped reef sharks and Galapagos penguins.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
WED - Bartolome & Sullivan Bay (Santiago)

This morning, a Galapagos icon awaits: Bartolome Island. A great way to start the day is with a steep climb up a wooden staircase—the view from the top is worth the effort! Next, take to the dinghies for a ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, followed by time to enjoy the beach and some snorkeling. You may also ride in the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world.

After lunch, board the dinghies to land at Sullivan Bay on the east coast of Santiago, a white coral sand beach great for swimming and snorkeling. A trail over a lava field that flowed here less than 100 years ago is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galapagos while observing its wildlife.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
THU - Darwin Bay & Prince Philip's Steps (Genovesa)

In the morning, begin to explore Genovesa Island with an easy stroll to observe marine and land birds. There is an optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkeling at this beautiful natural harbor. Those feeling more adventurous may snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks.

This afternoon, take an interesting dinghy ride along the cliffs before disembarking for a short but steep climb up a wooden staircase, known as Prince Philip’s Steps. At the top, the land is flat, allowing for a captivating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of Nazca boobies, frigatebirds, storm petrels and the elusive short-eared owl.

Accommodations

La Pinta

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
FRI - Disembark Baltra

Your journey ends at Baltra Island, where you will be transferred to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals; soft drinks (juices and carbonated drinks, not “virgin” cocktails); island sightseeing; naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish only; wetsuit rental; snorkeling gear; internet (internet connections onboard consist of 2 computer stations in the library and Wi-Fi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos Islands’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth); luggage handling; medical care on board (excluding cost of medication); taxes and transfers in the islands; shared transfers from main hotels in Quito (Casa Gangotena, Hilton Colon, Mercure, Sheraton, Marriott, Dann Carlton; for Casa Gangotena, a further feeder service is provided to/from Hilton Colón, this service does not have additional cost) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Sheraton, Wyndham) to airport for flights to/from Galapagos.

Exclusions

Air transportation to/from Galapagos and airport taxes (subject to change without previous notice); Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US $200 cash per adult and $100 for children under 12 years old); TCT-Galapagos Transit Control Card (US $20 subject to change without previous notice); fuel surcharge ($20 per person, per day in 2024 or $25 per person, per day in 2025); insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages (guests who wish to bring bottles of wine and/or spirits aboard incur a corkage fee of US $28(2024) or $29(2025)+taxes); gratuities; laundry; valet service; gifts and items of a personal nature.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a nonrefundable deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 61 days – 100% of deposit
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

Most flights to the Galapagos will depart Quito or Guayaquil between 6:00am and 11:00am on Day 1 and return between 2:00pm and 6:00pm on the final day. We highly recommend travelers arrive to Ecuador two days prior to their Galapagos cruise. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip concludes.

Internal Flights

Flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.

Activities

There are numerous opportunities to hike, kayak, swim and snorkel. The underwater experience is an integral part of any Galapagos cruise. We encourage all travelers to try snorkeling. Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, floating vest and net bag) are provided. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December.

Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (inflatable skiffs). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. 3 Luxury Cabins are available for single use at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate, based upon availability. Luxury Plus Triple Cabins for double occupancy incur a 50% supplement per person (100% per person during peak season).

Families & Children

Kids 6 years and older are welcomed aboard the yacht La Pinta. Kids under 12 years old at the time of sailing receive 10% off when sharing the cabin with 2 adults (applies only to one child per adult paying full fare). No child discounts apply on Peak Season dates, when an additional fee of $175 (2024) per child is incurred.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered.  The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

Nov 04 - Nov 08, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
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From $5812USD
Per Person
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Nov 08 - Nov 14, 2024
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7789USD
Per Person
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Nov 14 - Nov 18, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
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From $5812USD
Per Person
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Nov 18 - Nov 22, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2024
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7789USD
Per Person
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Nov 28 - Dec 02, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Dec 02 - Dec 06, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Dec 06 - Dec 12, 2024
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7789USD
Per Person
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Dec 12 - Dec 16, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Dec 16 - Dec 20, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Dec 20 - Dec 26, 2024
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8079USD
Per Person
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Dec 26 - Dec 30, 2024
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Dec 30 - Jan 03, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5812USD
Per Person
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Jan 31 - Feb 06, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Feb 06 - Feb 10, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Feb 10 - Feb 14, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Feb 14 - Feb 20, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Feb 20 - Feb 24, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Feb 24 - Feb 28, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Feb 28 - Mar 06, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Mar 06 - Mar 10, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Mar 10 - Mar 14, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Mar 20 - Mar 24, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Mar 24 - Mar 28, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Mar 28 - Apr 03, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Apr 03 - Apr 07, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Apr 07 - Apr 11, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Apr 11 - Apr 17, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Apr 17 - Apr 21, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Apr 21 - Apr 25, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Apr 25 - May 01, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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May 01 - May 05, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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May 05 - May 09, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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May 09 - May 15, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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May 15 - May 19, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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May 19 - May 23, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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May 23 - May 29, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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May 29 - Jun 02, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jun 02 - Jun 06, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jun 12 - Jun 16, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jun 16 - Jun 20, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jun 20 - Jun 26, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Jun 26 - Jun 30, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jun 30 - Jul 04, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jul 04 - Jul 10, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Jul 10 - Jul 14, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jul 14 - Jul 18, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jul 18 - Jul 24, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Jul 24 - Jul 28, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Jul 28 - Aug 01, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Aug 01 - Aug 07, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Aug 07 - Aug 11, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Aug 11 - Aug 15, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Aug 15 - Aug 21, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Aug 21 - Aug 25, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Aug 25 - Aug 29, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Aug 29 - Sep 04, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Sep 04 - Sep 08, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Sep 08 - Sep 12, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Sep 12 - Sep 18, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Sep 18 - Sep 22, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Sep 22 - Sep 26, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Sep 26 - Oct 02, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Oct 02 - Oct 06, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Oct 06 - Oct 10, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Oct 10 - Oct 16, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Oct 16 - Oct 20, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Oct 20 - Oct 24, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Oct 24 - Oct 30, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Oct 30 - Nov 03, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Nov 03 - Nov 07, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Nov 07 - Nov 13, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Nov 13 - Nov 17, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Nov 17 - Nov 21, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Nov 21 - Nov 27, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Nov 27 - Dec 03, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Dec 01 - Dec 05, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Dec 05 - Dec 11, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $7867USD
Per Person
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Dec 11 - Dec 15, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Dec 15 - Dec 19, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $5870USD
Per Person
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Dec 19 - Dec 25, 2025
La Pinta • 7 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8166USD
Per Person
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Dec 25 - Dec 29, 2025
La Pinta • 5 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $6169USD
Per Person
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Dec 29 - Jan 02, 2026
La Pinta • 5 days
green northern galapagos islands directional icon
From $6169USD
Per Person
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green northern galapagos islands directional icon North Galapagos Islands
green western galapagos islands directional icon West Galapagos Islands
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon East Galapagos Islands
Accommodation

Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary

Mid-Sized Cruiser
La Pinta

La Pinta is a gorgeous 209-foot expedition yacht, with capacity for 48 guests. She offers a relaxed yet lavish expedition atmosphere, with large outward-facing cabins and complimentary gear for snorkeling, kayaking and rides in a glass-bottom boat.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Peter Avedschmidt • December 9th, 2019
Expert Review: La Pinta Galapagos Cruise

This La Pinta Galapagos cruise review recaps an AdventureSmith expert’s time aboard the 48-guest La Pinta expedition ship and his numerous, incredible Galapagos wildlife encounters, from flying flamingos to algae-eating marine iguanas!

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"The Arrangements Were Perfect"

The arrangements were perfect. Not a glitch in the entire nearly two weeks. I am just very happy to have found AdventureSmith.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"More Than Met Expectations"

Everything more than met expectations - the boat was wonderful, the wildlife was abundant, the naturalists and crew were friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw penguins swimming, calling, and even mating!

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"Everything Was First Class"

Everything was first class, the crew, the guides, the itinerary, my spacious cabin and the help that I had from the ground staff just before my departure for my flights via Baltra.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise

Add to Wishlist
5 Day Land Tour
Quito & Guayaquil Galapagos Travel Package

Most Galapagos cruises require travelers to find pre- and post-cruise Guayaquil or Quito hotels. This travel package offers an easy, cost-effective way to get to the Galapagos with a comprehensive land package.

From $485USD
Year Round
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5 - 6 Day Land Tour
Machu Picchu Explorer

Travel to Peru's most spectacular archaeological monument in South America: the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu. This 5- or 6-day Machu Picchu Explorer adventure includes Cusco, the Urubamba Valley and upscale accommodations.

From $2335USD
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4 - 5 Day Land Tour
Ecuador Amazon Adventure - Napo Wildlife Center

Spend 4, 5 or 8 days at the Napo Wildlife Center, a luxury eco-hotel and ecotourism project that includes the conservation of approximately over 82 square miles of Ecuador's most pristine Amazon rainforest within Yasunì National Park.

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La Pinta Galapagos Cruises

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