White and blue painted Galapagos small ship Evolution floats next to popular site Kicker Rock a tan volcanic cone that reaches up from the ocean.
A group of Galapagos travelers stand on an islands sandy beach with black lava rock against crystal blue and teal ocean water beyond them.
A blue footed bobby bird stands on black lava rock as an inflatable skiff holding cruise passengers dock on land behind it.
Tandem kayaking pair paddles an orange boat beside rocky cliffs in calm water on an Evolution Galapagos cruise.
Snorkeler on an Evolution Galapagos cruise swims along the water's surface beside a sea turtle in calm, clear conditions.
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South America Galapagos Islands Cruise

Evolution Galapagos Cruises

For most travelers, the Galapagos is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and a Galapagos cruise aboard the Evolution offers one of the finest cruise experiences available. At nearly 200 feet and only 32 guests, the Evolution is a spacious and luxurious yacht with a high crew-to-passenger ratio, qualifying her for our curated list of Galapagos luxury cruises. She has all the modern amenities and loving attention to detail in her design, yet retains the adventurous atmosphere and charm of a Roaring Twenties small boat. The carefully selected professional and friendly naturalists aboard Evolution are the most knowledgeable in the region, with an average of 15 years of experience guiding on the Islands. 

Evolution operates two 8-day Galapagos cruise itineraries, which can be combined to create an all-encompassing 15-day cruise. Look for special family departures with Kids Club activities like stargazing and movie nights, plus child-oriented guides, making Evolution a great choice among our Galapagos family cruises. We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Call today to inquire about a specific Galapagos Evolution itinerary or to learn more about Galapagos Evolution small ship cruises.

Experience the full spectrum of Galapagos wildlife that made the Islands famous and inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Many Galapagos cruises avoid the long navigations to save costs, but Evolution believes that a true Galapagos experience involves visiting the most remote islands as well. Amongst these is Genovesa Island, found far north on the archipelago. Visit this “Island of Birds” and be amazed at the variety of bird life that inhabits this partially submerged volcano. 

The 8-day Footsteps Back in Time itinerary highlights include: Stopping at all the important visitor sites that have shaped the Galapagos islands through history and evolution. Experience all the wonderful flora and fauna of the region while visiting nine islands of this enchanted archipelago, including San Cristobal, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Mosquera, Santiago, Genovesa, North Seymour, Santa Fe and Floreana.  

The 8-day In the Steps of Pirates itinerary highlights include: Visiting nine islands of this enchanted archipelago, including Baltra, Isabela, Fernandina, Bartolome, Santiago, Santa Cruz, Rabida, Espanola and San Cristobal. Regular opportunities to snorkel, kayak, swim, hike and enjoy panga rides mean interaction with endemic Galapagos species is accessible to travelers of various activity levels.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about an AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruise and all our Galapagos trips.



Itinerary

Footsteps Back In Time Itinerary

This 8-day San Cristobal to Baltra itinerary follows the “footsteps back in time” itinerary, stopping at all the important visitor sites that have shaped the Galapagos islands through history and evolution. Experience all the wonderful flora and fauna of the region while visiting nine islands of this enchanted archipelago, including San Cristobal, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Mosquera, Santiago, Genovesa, North Seymour, Santa Fe and Floreana.

Galapagos cruise route map showing visits to San Cristobal, Isla Lobos, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Mosquera, Santiago, Genovesa, North Seymour, Santa Fe and Floreana islands.
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Day 1
SAT - Embark San Cristobal to Cerro Brujo

Today fly to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos in the morning. Flight time is just under 2 hours from the mainland. Upon arrival board M/V Evolution to have lunch and a quick briefing en route to the first visitor site: Cerro Brujo. If the crew requires a bit more time to prepare the ship, then take in the Visitor Center before heading to the dock.  Once aboard, settle in and undergo a safety briefing as the ship heads up the coast from Wreck Bay and Puerto Baquerizo to spot Leon Dormido to the north. Also known as Kicker Rock, the spectacular formation rises 500 feet out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion (hence its Spanish name), but from another angle you can see that the rock is split, forming a colossal tablet and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching.

Set out along the coast of San Cristobal heading northeast toward the first landing at Cerro Brujo. This inviting powdery beach beside turquoise waters is a great introduction to the islands offering the first opportunity to go snorkeling with sea turtles, rays and the archipelago’s playful sea lions, or wolves of the sea. After walking the trail in search of baby sea lion and boobies beneath the salt bushes, change into snorkeling gear for some swimming with sea lions!

Following this outing, warm up in the Evolution’s oversized Jacuzzi as the ship heads south back to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Enjoy the first Pacific sunset aboard the Evolution by celebrating happy hour atop her sky lounge where drinks are available daily along with hors d’oeuvres. A little later, gather in the main salon for the daily presentation by the guide on the next day’s activates and visitor sites, before sitting down to dinner. Spend a bit more time in port this evening before setting sail for the next destination to the northwest.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
SUN - South Plaza, Punta Carrion (Santa Cruz) & Mosquera

In the morning visit South Plaza Island, one of the smallest yet most colorful islands in the Galapagos. Yellow land iguanas wander through bright red carpet weed, waiting from prickly pears to drop from green cactus. Orange sally lightfoot crabs dot the blackened lava above the landing site, all surrounded by turquoise waters. Look for swallow tailed gulls nesting along the up-tilted end of the tiny island, while red-billed tropicbirds, frigatebirds and shearwaters fly in dancing displays. You”ll also have the chance to search for blue footed boobies along the cliff’s edge. Early afternoon snorkeling at Punta Carrion is followed by a visit to Mosquera. While Mosquera is little more than a large sandbar, it is home to a playful colony of sea lions.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
MON - Chinese Hat & James Bay (Santiago)

In the morning visit Chinese Hat Islet, a fairly recent volcanic cone; it has the shape of a down-facing Chinese hat. On the rocky shoreline of nearby Santiago, Galapagos penguins are often seen. There is a small sea lion cove on the north shore, where boats anchor and land at the visitor site. Late morning snorkeling with sea lions and penguins and swimming opportunities in the cove.

In the afternoon visit James Bay and land on a black beach with intriguing eroded rock formations. A trail leads to a series of crystal-clear grottos with a natural bridge formed of broken lava tubes. This is the best place in the Galapagos to see fur seals and equally best place to see samurai like marine iguanas feeding in tidal pools nearby. You will find a colony of sea lions here and Galapagos hawks frequent the area. Snorkeling offers encounters with green sea turtles and tropical fish.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
TUE - Darwin Bay & Prince Phillip's Steps (Genovesa)

Genovesa Island could serve as a film set for a secret submarine base. The southern part of the island is an ocean-filled caldera ringed by the throat of a sizeable and mostly submerged volcano. The island sits to the northwest, slightly removed from the Galapagos archipelago. It is also known as “Bird Island,” and Darwin Bay, where we land first, lives up to that name in a spectacular way. A gorgeous tidal grotto forms the backdrop to the gaggle of nesting and soaring seabirds birds and path leads up to the rookery cliffs for views of the bay and colonies of gulls, tropic birds and frigates.

Take time to kayak beside the walls of the sunken caldera before the afternoon visit to Prince Philips Steps. This is the best Galapagos landing site to see red footed boobies, comically perched by wrapping big red feet around tiny branches. We walk a short distance to seek out short eared owls preying on swarms of storm petrels. The snorkeling at the foot of the steps is amazing with large, brightly colored tropical fish taking on a neon quality against the black lava background.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
WED - North Seymour & Santa Fe

A morning visit to North Seymour Island teems with wildlife. Cliffs only a few meters high form the shoreline are home to swallow-tailed gulls. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing, where a trail will take you to see sea lions, marine iguanas, blue footed boobies, pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds and land iguanas.

In the afternoon visit Santa Fe Island, home to one of the most beautiful and sheltered bays of the archipelago, and to some of the best snorkeling with its crystal clear waters. Certainly one of the best locations to see sea turtles, swim with sea lions and glimpse of the Galapagos white-tipped shark. After a wet landing you will walk up to a nearby cliff to see the land iguanas through an area of opuntia cactus.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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

Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a Baroness among them—who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in mystery and death. We visit Post Office Bay, where in 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island’s Post Office, to send letters home on passing ships. A stairway leads down into a natural lava cave where you can literally swim in a grotto under the ocean!

Visit Punta Cormorant which offers two highly contrasting beaches; a green-olivine beach and an iron-red beach. Between the two beaches is a salt lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. Late afternoon snorkeling at Devil’s Crown, which is home to a myriad of marine species including a variety of corals, pencil sea urchin, wrasses, angelfish and amberjacks – making for some of the best snorkeling in the Galapagos.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
FRI - Charles Darwin Research Station & Highlands (Santa Cruz)

Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos and its capital, Puerto Ayora, is the economic center of the Islands. In the afternoon we visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to visit the Giant Tortoise and Land Iguana Breeding and Rearing Program.

Visit the Highlands, where the dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. The destination is the Tortoise Reserve, where you will have chances see these animals in the wild and explore a lava tube.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
SAT - Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) & Disembark Baltra

Today the Galapagos cruise comes to an end, but before we bid farewell to the Evolution and her crew we pay a visit to Black Turtle Cove, a beautiful mangrove estuary to quietly drift in the panga to see spotted eagle rays, diamond shaped mustard rays, white-tipped reef sharks, pacific green sea turtles and a large variety of shore birds. Next head to Baltra Island airport for the flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Comprehensive pre- and post-cruise information material; accommodations aboard Evolution; all meals and snacks; all transfers in Galapagos; guides and activities throughout the cruise; limited use of Wi-Fi; select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise; use of snorkeling equipment, 3mm long wetsuits and sea kayaks, Galapagos National Park fee; Transit Control Card.

Exclusions

Round-trip Galapagos airfare; hotel accommodations in mainland Ecuador; airport transfers in Ecuador; gratuities and tips to guides, crew and staff; premium brands of wines, beer or spirits; additional wi-fi minutes; other personal expenses.

(For expeditions booked prior to March 9, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of $900 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special group (4+ staterooms) and holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply, inquire for details. 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 65 days – 100% of deposit
64 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 Islandsbaggage 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 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 (dinghies). 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 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Staterooms, and a 75% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Suites. A 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate applies on holiday departures (Christmas and New Year dates).

Families & Children

Children 15 years and younger receive a 15% discount off the cruise fare (not available for holiday departures). A maximum of three children discounts are allowed per family per booking. There is a minimum age of 5 years, but exceptions may be made for designated family departures and/or private charters.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $50,000 per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their 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.

In the Steps of Pirates & Darwin Itinerary

This 8-day Baltra to San Cristobal itinerary follows in the steps of pirates and famed naturalist Charles Darwin by visiting some historically rich islands and the home of the Darwin Research Station. View iconic Galapagos species and become educated about all of Darwin’s endeavors in the region while visiting nine islands of this enchanted archipelago, including Baltra, Isabela, Fernandina, Bartolome, Santiago, Santa Cruz, Rabida, Espanola and San Cristobal. Regular opportunities to snorkel, kayak, swim, hike and enjoy panga rides mean interaction with endemic Galapagos species is accessible to travelers of various activity levels.

Galapagos cruise route map showing visits to Baltra, Isabela, Fernandina, Bartolome, Santiago, Santa Cruz, Rabida, Espanola and San Cristobal islands.
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Day 1
SAT - Embark Baltra to Daphne Major

This morning fly to Baltra Island in the Galapagos. Flight time is just under 2 hours from the mainland. Upon arrival board M/V Evolution for lunch and a quick briefing en route to the first visitor site: Daphne Major Islet. Circumnavigate Daphne Major Islet which is home to a variety of birds including Galapagos martins, blue footed boobies, nazca boobies, short eared owls and red billed tropic birds amongst others.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

lunch, dinner

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

In the morning visit Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. Snorkeling is incredible here as a result of the nutrient-rich waters of the Humboldt Current that bathe the western side of the archipelago. Enjoy the chance to see colorful fish, sea lions, penguins and sea turtles in the water.

This afternoon visit Fernandina Island, home to La Cumbre volcano, which erupts frequently (most recently in May 2005). Visit Punta Espinoza, a narrow spit of land where a number of unique species such as flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, sea turtles, Galapagos Penguins and Galapagos hawks can often be seen in close proximity.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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

Urbina Bay is directly west of Isabela’s Volcano Alcedo, where there is an easy, wet landing (a hop into a few inches of water). Walk a stretch of three miles (5 km) of the marine reef that has been uplifted by as much as 13 feet (4 meters) out of the water. Highlights of this excursion are the giant land iguanas and giant tortoises, as well as the opportunity to go snorkeling amongst marine creatures, or just relaxing on shore.

In the afternoon visit Tagus Cove on Isabela Island. A wooden stairway rises to the trail entrance and continues around Darwin Lake through a dry vegetation zone, and ends in a promontory formed by spatter cones. The site provides spectacular views of the Evolution anchorage in the bay, as well as Darwin and Wolf Volcanoes. The green algae underwater pastures of the cove offer the chance to snorkel with marine iguanas, sea turtles, penguins and sea horses.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
TUE - Pinnacle Rock (Bartolome) & Sullivan Bay (Santiago)

In the morning visit Bartolome Island, famous for Pinnacle Rock, to aim to see Galapagos penguins and sea lions. Hike a trail to Bartolome’s summit to be rewarded with spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock and the beach, where the crystal blue waters of the bay cradle the yacht.

In the afternoon visit Sullivan Bay, one of the most outstanding volcanic sites in the Galapagos. In the nearly 100 years since the Sullivan Bay Flow, only a few plants like Mollugo and Lava cacti have managed to take root in this harsh environment. Oystercatchers can be seen fishing for crabs and mollusks in the tide pools of Sullivan Bay. After exploring the lava flow, swim and snorkel with playful sea lions off two small coraline beaches, or relax on shore.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
WED - Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz) & Rabida

In the morning visit Las Bachas, a sandy white-coral beach that is a major egg-laying site for sea turtles. The name Bachas refers to the remains of landing craft left here at the end of WWII. Ashore marine iguanas mingle with flamingos and other wading birds in another of the many super saline lagoons found in the Galapagos.

Rabida Island, commonly known by its English name of Jervis, is unique for the very red color of the beach and cliffs, beneath which one can often find gliding sea turtles and perched blue footed boobies. A thick forest of Palo Santo trees sits back from the beach sheltering a yellow saltwater lagoon. Pelicans nest in the thickets and brightly colored pink flamingoes graze the lagoon. A sea lion colony likes to lay on the red sands of the beach. Hike up a tiny peninsula for a wonderful view of the beach and lagoon and sea caves invite exploration farther down the coast.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
THU - Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz)

Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos and its capital, Puerto Ayora, is the economic center of the Islands. In the morning visit the Highlands, where the dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. The destination is the Tortoise Reserve, to have a chance see these animals in the wild. In the afternoon visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to visit the Giant Tortoise and Land Iguana Breeding and Rearing Program.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
FRI - Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay (Espanola)

Española, also known as Hood, is the southernmost island of the archipelago, and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variation and number of fauna that inhabit the island. In the morning visit Punta Suarez where you will witness the largest variety of marine iguanas in the Galapagos, masked boobies and blue footed boobies nesting along the cliff’s edge, as well as the nesting site of the famous waved albatross. In the afternoon visit Gardner Bay, a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals.

Accommodations

Evolution

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
SAT - Interpretation Center (San Cristobal) & Disembark

Today the Galapagos cruise comes to an end, but before bidding farewell to the Evolution and her crew, pay a visit to the Galapagos National Park Visitor Center on San Cristobal Island. The Center presents a comprehensive exhibit of the islands’ natural history, human interaction, ecosystems, flora & fauna and your naturalist will use the exhibits to provide an illustrated overview of life on the Islands. A short trail arrives at Frigate Bird Hill, where both magnificent-frigates and great-frigates can be seen in the same colony. Next return to the airport where the journey began, for the flight back to the Ecuadorian mainland.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Comprehensive pre- and post-cruise information material; accommodations aboard Evolution; all meals and snacks; all transfers in Galapagos; guides and activities throughout the cruise; limited use of Wi-Fi; select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise; use of snorkeling equipment, 3mm long wetsuits and sea kayaks, Galapagos National Park fee; Transit Control Card.

Exclusions

Round-trip Galapagos airfare; hotel accommodations in mainland Ecuador; airport transfers in Ecuador; gratuities and tips to guides, crew and staff; premium brands of wines, beer or spirits; additional wi-fi minutes; other personal expenses.

(For expeditions booked prior to March 9, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of $900 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special group (4+ staterooms) and holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply, inquire for details. 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 65 days – 100% of deposit
64 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 Islandsbaggage 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 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 (dinghies). 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 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Staterooms, and a 75% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Suites. A 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate applies on holiday departures (Christmas and New Year dates).

Families & Children

Children 15 years and younger receive a 15% discount off the cruise fare (not available for holiday departures). A maximum of three children discounts are allowed per family per booking. There is a minimum age of 5 years, but exceptions may be made for designated family departures and/or private charters.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $50,000 per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their 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

A 15-day Galapagos Evolution itinerary is available by combining the ship’s 8-day itineraries. Receive a 10% discount on the second week of cruising. If the 15-day cruise is taken during Christmas, Easter or New Year, full cruise prices will apply. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for more information.

Apr 20 - Apr 27, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
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From $8950USD
Per Person
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Apr 27 - May 04, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
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From $8950USD
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May 04 - May 11, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
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From $8950USD
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May 11 - May 18, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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May 18 - May 25, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
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From $8950USD
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May 25 - Jun 01, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jun 01 - Jun 08, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jun 08 - Jun 15, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jun 22 - Jun 29, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jun 29 - Jul 06, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jul 06 - Jul 13, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jul 13 - Jul 20, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jul 20 - Jul 27, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Jul 27 - Aug 03, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
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From $8950USD
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Aug 03 - Aug 10, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
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Aug 10 - Aug 17, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
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Aug 17 - Aug 24, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Aug 24 - Aug 31, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
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Aug 31 - Sep 07, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Sep 07 - Sep 14, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Sep 14 - Sep 21, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Sep 21 - Sep 28, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
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Sep 28 - Oct 05, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Oct 05 - Oct 12, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
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Oct 12 - Oct 19, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
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Oct 19 - Oct 26, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Oct 26 - Nov 02, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Nov 02 - Nov 09, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Nov 09 - Nov 16, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Nov 16 - Nov 23, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
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Nov 23 - Nov 30, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Nov 30 - Dec 07, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Dec 07 - Dec 14, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon
From $8950USD
Per Person
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Dec 14 - Dec 21, 2024
Evolution • 8 days
green western galapagos islands directional icon
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olive green eastern galapagos islands directional icon East Galapagos Islands
green western galapagos islands directional icon West Galapagos Islands
Accommodation

Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary

Yacht
Evolution

This luxurious small expedition ship accommodates 32 passengers for its Galapagos itineraries. A historic feel combined with modern amenities and a 1:10 guest-to-guide ratio give this yacht the adventurous atmosphere of a smaller boat.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"The MV Evolution Was Perfect"

It was a wonderful trip, we enjoyed all aspects of it.

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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"Beautiful & Awe-Inspiring"

Fantastic trip, very well organized. Galapagos islands were incredible - beautiful and awe-inspiring. The Evolution was top-notch and I would recommend it without hesitation.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"A Trip I Will Remember For The Rest of My Life"

The trip was everything that I imagined it to be and more. There was plenty of excursion, both land and water everyday. The guides were very knowledgeable and it is definitely a trip I will remember for the rest of my life.

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
Add to Wishlist
4 - 5 Day Land Tour
Ecuador Amazon Adventure - La Selva EcoLodge

Explore the incredible diversity of Ecuador's Amazon for 4 or 5 days from La Selva EcoLodge, an exceptional wilderness lodge deeply committed to sustainable ecotourism. Daily hikes and paddles are lead by expert resident guides to canopy platforms, parrot clay licks and rainforest wildlife.

From $1570USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
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 $1975USD
Year Round
More to Explore

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Evolution Galapagos Cruises

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