Monique Galapagos Cruises
Monique Galapagos Cruises offer tailor-made itineraries aboard the 16-guest mega-catamaran Monique. Visit remote islands with top bilingual naturalist guides.
Monique Galapagos Cruises offer tailor-made itineraries aboard the 16-guest mega-catamaran Monique. Visit remote islands with top bilingual naturalist guides and upscale accommodations. The Monique offers excellent views, spacious common areas, and a Jacuzzi to ensure relaxation and satisfaction during the entire Galapagos Islands cruise.
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.
Monique operates two main 8-day Galapagos cruise itineraries, which can be combined into an all-encompassing 15-day cruise, as well as shorter 5- and 4-day routes. You may also opt for a variation of these main Monique itineraries, customizing your trip to be 11, 12, or a full 15 days. Gather 15 friends or family members to fill one of our favorite ships for private Galapagos yacht charters and experience the archipelago in your own unique way. The 16-guest Monique Catamaran is a top choice in Galapagos luxury cruises.
On the 8-Day Western Galapagos Islands itinerary, highlights include: visiting Isabela, the largest of the islands and one of the few populated by humans, experiencing the lava fields of Fernandina, and a visit to the Charles Darwin Station and highlands of Santa Cruz Island.
On the 8-Day Eastern Galapagos Islands itinerary, highlights include: visiting Baltra and Santa Cruz, sailing to the southern wonders of Floreana and Española, journeying north to the unique bird haven Genovesa, exploring the distinctive volcanic landscape of Chinese Hat.
On the 5-Day Northern Galapagos Islands itinerary, highlights include: commencing your small ship cruise in San Cristobal, exploring Santa Fe and South Plaza, venturing north to the unique bird haven of Genovesa and the distinctive volcanic landscape of Chinese Hat, and discovering Santa Cruz.
On the 4-Day Southern Galapagos Islands itinerary, highlights include: exploring the diverse landscapes of Santa Cruz, Floreana and Española.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises and Galapagos trips.
8-Day East Itinerary (B)
Visit nine Galapagos Islands, embarking in Baltra and visiting Santa Cruz, Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Genovesa, Chinese Hat and back to Santa Cruz before disembarking at Baltra Island.
Arrive at Baltra airport in the morning and be met by Monique’s guides and transferred to the yacht. Take some time to settle into your cabin before lunch and a welcome briefing.
In the afternoon, visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, also known as the Charles Darwin Research Station. The center hosts an interpretation center, museum, library, and tortoise breeding facility, home to various tortoise subspecies being prepared for reintroduction.
After the visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, we continue to the highlands of Santa Cruz, you’ll have the opportunity to see the famous giant tortoises in the wild. So renowned are these endemic animals that they gave the archipelago its name. Birdwatching is also one of the activities do to in the Santa Cruz highlands, since this area is home of finches and other Galapagos birds
In the morning, experience an island tradition that dates back to the 18th century when whalers used a wooden barrel to exchange mail—a custom you can still participate in today. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, or walking and swimming through a lava tunnel.
In the afternoon, visit two contrasting beaches—one with olivine-rich green sand, and the other a white coral “Flour Beach” created by parrot fish over thousands of years. A saltwater lagoon nearby is frequented by one of the archipelago’s largest populations of Galapagos flamingos, and is home to stilts, pintails, and flycatchers.
In the morning, visit Punta Suarez, one of the most biologically diverse sites in the Galapagos. As you follow a rugged trail along dramatic sea cliffs, you’ll pass by large colonies of Nazca and blue-footed boobies, boldly curious mockingbirds, vibrantly colored marine iguanas, and—during the right season—the world’s only population of waved albatrosses. Watch as these majestic birds court, nest, or launch themselves gracefully into the ocean air.
Later, spend the afternoon on the soft white sands of Gardner Bay, a pristine beach where sea lions lounge and the ocean invites you in. Whether you choose to swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard, the surrounding turquoise waters offer a perfect opportunity to observe marine life. Just offshore, Gardner and Osborn Islets are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, rays, and playful juvenile sea lions—ideal for a vibrant snorkeling adventure.
Start your morning with breathtaking views of Kicker Rock—a towering, twin-peaked volcanic formation rising from the sea. This iconic landmark is a haven for seabirds such as blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, often seen perched on its narrow ledges. Then head to Witch Hill, a secluded bay with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Its shallow saltwater lagoon offers a peaceful setting ideal for spotting marine life and enjoying views of Kicker Rock from a unique vantage point.
In the afternoon, broaden your understanding of the archipelago at the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. This modern facility offers engaging exhibits that trace the Galapagos’ geological beginnings, ecological richness, and complex human history over time. Learn about the unique species that call these islands home and the ongoing conservation initiatives working to protect their fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
Begin your morning by landing on Santa Fe, one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos, known for its towering forests of Opuntia cacti and distinctive pale-yellow land iguanas. Hike along scenic trails that lead you across the island’s arid landscape or into the highlands where these endemic iguanas bask under the sun. After your walk, cool off in the calm, crystal-clear waters of the bay—ideal for swimming or snorkeling alongside playful sea lions, rays, and colorful reef fish.
In the afternoon, explore the compact yet incredibly diverse South Plaza Island. Its vivid red and green Sesuvium ground cover contrasts dramatically with the island’s black lava and towering prickly pear cactus. Here, you can often see swallow-tailed gulls, tropicbirds, and other seabirds nesting or riding the thermals above the crashing waves.
This morning, disembark on the white coral beach of Darwin Bay, the only sandy landing site within Genovesa’s volcanic caldera. During breeding season, male frigatebirds inflate their striking red throat pouches in elaborate mating displays while red-footed boobies perch on the man grove branches.
In the afternoon, visit El Barranco, also known as Prince Philip’s Steps, a rocky stairway that leads past a colony of Nazca and red-footed boobies up to a plateau of dried lava. Continuing through the thin Palo Santo Forest and looking out over the plain, visitors are often treated to sites of storm petrels launching out over the ocean. A dinghy ride or kayaking along the edge of the cliffs provides a good chance to see the elusive Galapagos fur seals nestled on the rocks, and snorkeling is a great activity if you fancy a dip with a variety of shark species.
This morning, visit the scenic islet off the coast of Santiago Island is known for its striking lava formations. With a maximum elevation of just 160 feet (52 meters) and within easy reach of Santa Cruz, Chinese Hat is typically only visited by those aboard a Galapagos cruise. It is renowned as one of the best snorkeling spots in the archipelago.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Dragon Hill, located in the northwestern region of Santa Cruz Island. This visit offers guests the chance to explore the island on foot and observe the remarkable land iguanas—once nearly extinct, now thriving once again. You’ll also encounter a saltwater lagoon home to flamingos, pintail ducks, and a variety of endemic bird species such as flycatchers and warblers. A brief hike leads to a stunning viewpoint at the top of the hill. Before returning to the yacht, enjoy some offshore snorkeling in the surrounding waters
After breakfast, you’ll explore Black Turtle Cove, located along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. This site vividly demonstrates how mangroves shape the marine ecosystem, forming a vibrant and unique habitat. Three different species of mangroves extend from the shore deep into the water, stretching nearly a mile inland. While gliding silently through the calm waters aboard a dinghy, you may spot spotted eagle rays and mustard rays gracefully swimming in formation. Keep an eye out for white-tipped reef sharks gliding beneath the surface and Pacific green sea turtles surfacing to breathe or mate. The area is also a haven for waterfowl, such as pelicans, herons, and egrets, all drawn by the cove’s rich feeding grounds.
After this last visit, transfer to Baltra airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador. Assistance and farewell at the airport.
Included
Transfers between the airport and the yacht; airport reception and assistance; accommodation; guided expeditions according to the itinerary; bilingual national park guide; cruise service officer; daily activity briefing; all meals and snacks, soft drinks and juices, and one complimentary glass of local beer or house red wine per night, per adult; captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail; use of sea kayaks, paddleboards and expedition gear (including wetsuits); WiFi. Mask and snorkel are recommended to be brought with you for personal safety but disinfected ones on board are included for use at one’s own risk, or a new set can be pre-purchased and provided upon arrival.
Exclusions
Roundtrip airfare to/from mainland Ecuador and Galapagos; Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee; TCT-Galapagos Transit Control Card; peak season/holiday surcharges; gratuities; alcoholic beverages; plastic bottled beverages; insurance of any kind; possible fuel surcharge (to be confirmed upon booking).
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% 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 121 days – 50% of deposit
120 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 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. To reserve a second double-occupancy cabin for a single guest, a 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate is required, subject to availability. Triple occupancy for two adults and a child under 12 years of age may be available, with the child sleeping on a sofa bed. Contact AdventureSmith for info and availability.
Families & Children
Children under 12 years old at time of travel receive 25% off the double occupancy rate when traveling with two adults. For individual bookings, children must be at least 6 years old, however exceptions may be made. Child discount does not apply during holidays.
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. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. 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.
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The 16-guest mega-catamaran Monique offers premier performance and comfort in Galapagos cruising. The elegant, modern design includes a spacious sundeck with Jacuzzi, al fresco dining, ample social areas and spacious staterooms. Her speed, comfort, top guides, and culinary focus on board make Monique perfect for active Galapagos Island exploration.
The Monique catamaran, one of the newest vessels to sail the Galapagos, focuses on comfort and sustainability in the archipelago. Designed for smooth navigation, Monique features a sleek, twin-hulled structure that ensures a stable cruise, free from the rocking often found on older vessels.
Monique Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Monique review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class Galapagos cruise ship. Please read our Monique review below then contact our experts to compare the Monique with other Galapagos luxury yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises and private Galapagos yacht charters.
Choose Monique for her cutting-edge sustainability, panoramic views and spacious accommodations. As one of the newest catamarans in the Galapagos, the Monique embodies a modern approach to upscale exploration. Its design prioritizes ultimate comfort and safety across its three spacious decks.
Design & Sustainability
Her panoramic spaces are designed to allow guests to connect with the natural beauty of the Galapagos. With three spacious decks, Monique provides the ideal setting for just 16 guests to experience the surrounding landscapes in comfort.
Monique integrates cutting-edge sustainable technologies, being powered by 20 solar panels and 5 lithium battery systems. This minimizes her environmental impact while upholding the highest standards of upscale cruising. Guests benefit from premium logistics and smooth sailing, with every element designed for both efficiency and indulgence.
Onboard Facilities
Designed by Golden Galapagos Cruises, an Ecuadorian operator with over two decades in the Ecuador and Galapagos travel industry, the 2026-built M/C Monique in Galapagos features a stunning panoramic concept. Guests can spot wildlife from almost anywhere on board, ensuring a superior experience aboard this trendsetting mega yacht. Additional selling points include complimentary WiFi on board and an onboard swimsuit water extractor.
Dining & Bars
Culinary experiences aboard Monique include epicurean cuisine prepared by expert chefs using locally sourced ingredients. While breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, dinner is a sit-down affair enjoyed al fresco on the Sky Deck.
Indoor Common Areas
The Main Deck includes a front observation platform, four golden double staterooms, an indoor dining area, and a spacious lounge with panoramic views. The Upper Deck features a shaded terrace for landscape observation, a sun terrace at the bow, and four additional golden double staterooms offering stunning vistas. The Sky Deck is the perfect space for relaxation, complete with an outdoor lounge, al-fresco dining area, Whirlpool, leisure space, and a bar for enjoying drinks and light bites while soaking in the views.
Crew, Guide & Expedition Leaders
A nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio ensures tailored attention throughout the voyage, with two English-speaking guides aboard and a dedicated Cruise Service Officer available to assist with every detail of your experience.
Cabins & Monique Deck Plan
Aboard the Monique, the focus has been placed on maximizing the interior space and comfort of the cabins. This strategic decision was made to cater to guests who prioritize roominess and comfort over private balconies. All cabins on board are Golden Staterooms, with a total of 8 double suites: 4 located on the Main Deck and 4 on the Upper Deck. These rooms feature convertible beds, which can be set up as either one king-size or two twin beds. Monique accommodates a total of 16 guests, but also offers a single cabin on the Main Deck, available without a single supplement, for odd-numbered families or small groups.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary
The mega-catamaran Monique offers premier performance and comfort in Galapagos cruising. The elegant, modern design includes a spacious sundeck with Jacuzzi, al fresco dining, ample social areas and spacious staterooms.
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Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands
Book your Galapagos small ship cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations for our broad knowledge of this famed archipelago. Our Adventure Specialists are Galapagos travel experts, savvy on Galapagos travel news and planning tips, and our travelers are extensions of this team, providing further insight to enhance our guests’ experience.
This series of travel guides and journals will help you learn more about the Galapagos Islands and get inspired. We travel to the Galapagos several times each year and update our guides frequently, so consult these posts regularly for the most up-to-date information.
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Best Time to Visit Galapagos
When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Consult this month by month guide for help planning your Galapagos travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, water temperature and the benefits of each month.
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Galapagos Travel Tips
Collectively, our crew of experts has been to the Galapagos more than 20 times to travel with our partner small ships and island lodges. Take our insider advice to make the most of your journey.
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Galapagos Islands Animals: Where, When & How to Spot Them
Many Galapagos animals can’t be seen anywhere else on earth but not every animal can be seen on every island. Learn more about where, when and how you can find the top Galapagos Islands animals plus other fun facts and videos.
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