During golden hour a sea lion poses for a wildlife portrait on a sandy beach in the Galapagos.

A luxury yacht, the Passion motors over calm, blue waters with the sky and clouds in the background at the Galapagos islands

a group of guests from the Passion luxury cruise take an excursion to land to explore the Galapagos islands on lava rock

a dinghy full of passengers from the passion luxury cruise heads toward the Galapagos for a day's excursion

a yellow bird in the sand at santa fe island in the galapagos

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Passion Galapagos Cruises

1/10

$8000^USD

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Overview
Itinerary
Rates & Dates
Accommodations
Expert Reviews
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South America Galapagos Islands Cruise

Passion Galapagos Cruises

Originally built as a private yacht, the M/Y Passion has been refurbished to enhance her elegant features for small group Galapagos cruises. Rose-colored Italian marble bathrooms, teak wood decks and a panoramic sky lounge and bar lend a private-yacht feel to her sailings in the archipelago. Measuring 159 feet with four decks and private bathrooms in every cabin, the Passion has ample space for her 14 guests. Add her one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio and this Galapagos cruise will certainly be one to remember!

When combined, the two 8-day itineraries create a 15-day/14-night comprehensive itinerary with no repeated landing sites. There is also a 5-day Eastern Islands itinerary (Saturday to Wednesday) or a 4-day (Wednesday to Saturday); contact AdventureSmith for availability and pricing.

The Passion offers onboard kayak and snorkeling gear for your use, as well as professional Galapagos Islands guides to inform you about the islands’ beautiful and fragile ecosystems. Spend an afternoon whale and dolphin watching while heading out west and discover diverse flora and fauna while visiting the islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, Genovesa and more, all from the extreme comfort and refined atmosphere of the Passion.

On the 8-day Western Islands Galapagos Cruise aboard Passion, venture to the Galapagos’s far west, where astute dolphins, enormous whales, penguins and deep-sea creatures head to the wild seaward shores of these special islands, some of the archipelago’s youngest. Sail round-trip from Baltra and visit Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, North Seymour and Mosquera.

The 8-day Eastern Islands small ship cruise itinerary aboard the Passion takes you up to the northernmost Genovesa Island, down to Espanola and to Santa Cruz and Santa Fe Islands in between. There is a good chance of encountering giant tortoises in the wild with a visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, and a stop at the Charles Darwin Station gives you a glimpse at the islands’ diversity of tortoises in semi-enclosed pens for conservation efforts. In addition, the abundance of wildlife will keep you searching for pelicans, golden rays, green sea turtles, great frigatebirds, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, greater flamingos, marine and land iguanas, Galapagos hawks and waved albatross. Watch your step! For there are no natural predators in the Galapagos and wildlife is so tame you have to take care that your encounters are not too close.

While each itinerary on Passion is incredible, they’re even more magical when experienced with friends and family. At only 14 guests, Passion is an AdventureSmith favorite for private Galapagos yacht charters.

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

Itinerary

8-Day East Itinerary

Galapagos cruise route map showing visits to Genovesa, Espanola, Santa Cruz and Santa Fe Islands.

Day 1

SAT - Embark Baltra to Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your naturalist guide and escorted to your floating home for the next eight days, M/Y Passion. Once aboard, settle into your cabin and enjoy a delicious lunch as the yacht begins its journey toward its first destination, Black Turtle Cove, a peaceful estuary on Santa Cruz Island. Embark on a scenic dinghy ride through a tranquil red mangrove lagoon, where calm waters shelter an abundance of marine life such as sea turtles, rays, juvenile sharks and a variety of coastal birds. After exploring this thriving ecosystem, return to the yacht for a beautifully prepared dinner. Your guide will then provide a recap of the day’s highlights and a briefing on the adventures ahead.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

SUN - Darwin Bay & Prince Phillip’s Steps (Genovesa)

Awake inside the stunning caldera of Genovesa Island. Enjoy breakfast before heading to Darwin Bay by dinghy. Here, a short beach walk brings you into a vibrant nesting ground for red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, lava gulls, tropicbirds, doves, storm petrels, and yellow-crowned night herons. Take in the fascinating diversity of avian life. Return to the yacht and prepare for a snorkel or kayak in the caldera’s deep waters, where marine life is abundant. After lunch prepare for a snorkel, where you may have the opportunity to spot the shy scalloped hammerhead sharks. Return to the yacht to get ready for a hike at Prince Philip’s Steps. Upon arrival, fur seals may greet you at the landing site before you ascend up the steps to the island’s outer edge, passing through trails lined with fragrant palo santo trees. Here, keep an eye out for short-eared owls and nesting boobies. Enjoy a delicious dinner on board and a debriefing to reflect on the day’s sights as you cruise to your next destination.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

MON - Bartolome & Sombrero Chino

Wake up to the striking landscapes of Bartolomé Island, renowned for its iconic Pinnacle Rock and sweeping panoramic views. After breakfast, a dinghy ride brings you ashore, where a wooden staircase leads you to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Galápagos. Return to the yacht to prepare for a snorkel around Pinnacle Rock. Here, you may encounter Galápagos penguins darting through the water, along with rays, reef sharks, and schools of vibrant tropical fish. Following lunch onboard, the yacht continues to Sombrero Chino (China Hat), a small islet named for its hat-like shape. Enjoy a casual walk where your guide will share insights into the island’s fascinating volcanic geology. Later, set out for a second snorkel in the nearby bay, with another opportunity to observe penguins and a variety of marine life up close. Return to the yacht in the evening for dinner and a recap on the day and tomorrow’s adventures.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

TUE - Rabida & Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz)

Savor a delightful breakfast before boarding the dinghy to Rábida Island, renowned for its striking red-sand beaches. Here, set out on a 1.5-hour guided walk in search of flamingos, nesting pelicans, marine iguanas, and a bachelor colony of sea lions. Cap off the morning with an invigorating snorkel along Rábida’s vibrant coastline. Return to the yacht to relax over a delicious lunch as you cruise toward your next destination, Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill). Upon arrival, head ashore for a dry landing and begin a 1.5-hour walk along cactus-lined trails, passing a lagoon where flamingos and pintail ducks are often seen. Continue inland to discover a unique habitat for land iguanas, then ascend the hill for sweeping panoramic views. Return to the yacht to prepare for another snorkel nearby in the surrounding waters before coming back to the yacht for a delicious, nourishing dinner and an evening recap of the day’s adventures as well as what tomorrow will bring.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

WED - Highlands & Darwin Station (Santa Cruz)

Spend today visiting Santa Cruz Island´s most famous highlights. Make a dry landing at the dock of Puerto Ayora then head to the island’s highlands. This area, in contrast to the coastal region, has lush vegetation and forest due to the humidity in the higher regions. Visit one of the ranches of the area where it is possible to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. As these animals migrate from the coastal area to the highlands and back, the chosen ranch will depend on the presence of the tortoises since they roam free and change locations. This is also a good place to see the Galapagos hawk, barn owl and other birds such as the vermilion flycatcher or the yellow warbler that fill the surrounding forests. Enjoy lunch at the ranch then head back to Puerto Ayora for your second visit of the day: the Fausto Llerena Tortoise Breeding Center, where you will see tortoises from different islands. The animals are found in large semi‐natural pens for their protection but also to ensure an easy view for visitors. The pens are divided according to four different stages: eggs, neonates, juveniles (held here until they are mature enough to be repatriated) and adults.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

THU - Gardner Bay & Punta Suarez (Espanola)

After breakfast, journey to Punta Suárez, where you will board a dinghy to thelanding site and set out on a scenic hike along dramatic coastal cliffs. Marvel at the powerful blowhole and observe an abundance of wildlife, including Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, and striking marine iguanas. From April to December, you may also witness the graceful courtship displays the Waved Albatross. Return to the yacht for lunch before heading to Gardner Bay, where a wet landing brings you to pristine white-sand beaches. Here, sea lions lounge along the shore, hawks glide overhead, and curious mockingbirds may join your walk. Following this tranquil visit, enjoy a snorkel in the clear waters, where you may encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and playful sea lions. Return to the yacht for dinner and an evening debrief.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

FRI - South Plaza & Santa Fe

Awake to the stunning views of Santa Fe Island. After breakfast, take a dinghy ashore and step onto a pristine beach dotted with sea lions before beginning an uphill walk through a landscape of towering opuntia cacti, where vibrant yellow land iguanas thrive. Return to the yacht for lunch, followed by a refreshing snorkel in the surrounding waters. In the afternoon, continue to South Plazas, where a dinghy ride brings you ashore to an island bustling with sea lions. Set out on an approximately 1.5-hour walk along a scenic trail, where you may spot red-billed tropicbirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and land iguanas. The trail leads to a dramatic cliffside lookout, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and bachelor sea lion colonies below. Later, return to the yacht to enjoy a satisfying dinner, followed by a recap of the day’s highlights and a preview of tomorrow’s plans.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

SAT - Twin Craters (Santa Cruz) & Disembark Baltra

Return to Santa Cruz Island for your final day. After breakfast, take time to pack before being transferred to the canal dock, where you will board a bus to visitLos Gemelos, a natural wonder featuring two twin sunken craters filled with lush vegetation. Afterwards, return to the canal where you and your luggage will board the ferry to Baltra, to catch your flight home or continue on to your next adventure.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

All onboard accommodations; programmed visits to the islands with a certified English-speaking naturalist guide; snorkel gear including short wetsuit, mask, snorkel and fins; use of kayaks; tea, coffee, natural juices; all meals on board; and private van transport and ferry for all Galapagos travelers; Starlink WiFi.

Exclusions

International airfare; airfare on group flights between mainland Ecuador and Galapagos Islands (handling fee of $50 per person for tickets not issued in conjunction with this cruise); Galapagos National Park fee; TCT-Galapagos Transit Control Card (US $20); long wetsuit rental fee ($60 per guest, per week in 2026); alcoholic and bottled beverages on board; crew and guide tips; and insurance of any kind; $100 fuel surcharge (2026); Christmas and New Year’s holidays have an additional 10% per person surcharge.

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 91 days – $250 service fee
90 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 hiking, kayak, swim and snorkel. The underwater experience is an integral part of any Galapagos cruise. We encourage all travelers to try snorkeling. 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 80%(Dec 15-Aug 31) or 40%(Sep 01-Dec 14) supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Triple occupancy (2 adults and 1 child) can be arranged in the VIP Suite (1 king bed plus a sofa bed) or Staterooms #3 and #4 (1 full bed, 1 twin bed).

Families & Children

Children under 12 traveling in the same stateroom/suite in triple occupancy receive a 40% discount off the double occupancy rate.

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.

8-Day West Itinerary

On the 8-day Western Islands Galapagos Cruise aboard Passion, venture to the Galapagos’s far west, where astute dolphins, enormous whales, penguins and deep-sea creatures head to the wild seaward shores of these special islands, some of the archipelago’s youngest while sailing round-trip from Baltra, visit Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, North Seymour and Mosquera.

Route map of Passion Western itinerary small ship cruise, operating round-trip from Baltra with visits to the islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, North Seymour & Mosquera.

Day 1

SAT - Embark Baltra to Highlands & Darwin Station (Santa Cruz)

Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your naturalist guide and transferred to a tortoise reserve in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz, where you can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You will then be escorted to your floating home for the next eight days, M/Y Passion. Once aboard, settle into your cabin and enjoy a delicious lunch before heading out for your afternoon visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you’ll encounter Galápagos giant tortoises at various stages of life and learn about the vital conservation efforts helping to protect the archipelago. Return to the yacht for a beautifully prepared dinner, followed by a recap of the day’s highlights and a preview of the adventures ahead.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

lunch, dinner

Day 2

SUN - Punta Cormorant & Post Office Bay (Floreana)

Start your day on Floreana Island, known for its colorful history of pirates, whalers, convicts, and early settlers, and home to a small community of fewer than 200 residents. This morning, take a dinghy ride to Punta Cormorant, where you’ll follow a scenic trail connecting two contrasting beaches. Along the way, visit a lagoon often frequented by flamingos. Return to the yacht to prepare for your first snorkel at nearby Champion Island, known for its vibrant marine life. Afterward, enjoy a nourishing lunch as the yacht continues to its next destination, Post Office Bay, a site steeped in maritime history. Once ashore, take a short walk to the iconic wooden mail barrel, where visitors continue the centuries-old tradition of leaving letters and postcards to be hand-delivered by passing travelers. Then you will have the opportunity to snorkel or kayak. Return to the yacht for a beautifully prepared dinner and debrief.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

MON - Punta Moreno & Elizabeth Bay (Isabela)

Awaken to the striking landscapes of Punta Moreno. After breakfast, take a dinghy ashore for a dry landing on lava rock, then set out on a 1.5-hour guided walk across dramatic black lava fields. Along the way, take in sweeping views of surrounding volcanoes and the island’s remarkable geological formations. Return to M/Y Passion to prepare for your first snorkel of the day, where you may encounter sea turtles, seahorses, rays, reef sharks, and vibrant tropical fish. After lunch, continue to Elizabeth Bay and explore a serene estuary by dinghy, where life thrives, penguins dart through the water while rays, sea turtles, and reef sharks glide below the surface. Enjoy another snorkel before returning to the yacht for a beautifully prepared dinner and your evening briefing as your journey continues.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

TUE - Punta Espinoza (Fernandina) & Urbina Bay (Isabela)

After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to Punta Espinoza on Fernandina Island, known for its vast colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. After your visit, return to the yacht to prepare for your first snorkel, where you may encounter sea turtles, rays, and a variety of tropical fish along the island’s rugged coastline. After lunch, continue to Urbina Bay, a remarkable site uplifted from the ocean floor in 1954, where remnants of the seabed remain visible today. Set out on a guided walk along the coastal trail, with opportunities to observe giant tortoises and colorful land iguanas in their natural habitat. Enjoy a snorkel directly from the beach before returning to the yacht for a beautifully prepared dinner and your evening debrief as the journey continues.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

WED - Tagus Cove & Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela)

Arrive at Tagus Cove, a historic harbor once frequented by whalers and pirates, who left their mark by carving names into the surrounding cliffs. From here, set out on a scenic hike to Darwin’s Crater, a striking saltwater lagoon, offering sweeping views of the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes (~1 hour). Afterward, enjoy a dinghy ride, snorkel, or kayak in the calm waters of the cove. After lunch, continue to Punta Vicente Roca, located along the northwestern coast of Isabela Island. This spectacular site is known for its towering cliffs, secluded coves, and rich marine ecosystem nourished by the nutrient-filled Cromwell Current. Explore the coastline by dinghy, keeping an eye out for sea turtles, penguins, and flightless cormorants. Return to the yacht to prepare for an exciting snorkel in the bay, where you may encounter an abundance of marine life. Conclude the day with a thoughtfully prepared dinner and an evening debrief on the day’s discoveries.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

THU - Puerto Egas, Buccaneer Cove & Espumilla Beach (Santiago)

Wake up to the stunning landscapes of Santiago Island. After breakfast, take a dinghy ashore to Puerto Egas for a scenic coastal walk along rugged lava formations and vibrant tide pools. Spot Galápagos fur seals lounging in grottos, marine iguanas basking on volcanic rock, and oystercatchers along the shoreline, with views of Sugarloaf Volcano and the remnants of an old salt mine. Enjoy a refreshing snorkel from the beach before returning to the yacht for lunch. In the afternoon, continue to Buccaneer’s Cove, once a pirate hideout and later visited by Charles Darwin. This sheltered bay is rich in wildlife, and you may choose to snorkel, kayak, or explore by dinghy. Later, visit Espumilla Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline where marine iguanas and rays are often seen, and sea turtles nest in season. Return to the yacht for dinner, followed by a recap of the day’s adventures.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

FRI - Sullivan Bay (Santiago) & North Seymour

This morning, after breakfast, board a dinghy for your first land visit at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island. Here, set out on an awe-inspiring walk across rugged, 100-year-old pahoehoe lava flows, dotted with distinctive lava cacti. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing snorkel in the bay, where marine life thrives. If you’re lucky, you may spot a Galápagos penguin. Return to the yacht for lunch as you cruise toward North Seymour, a flat island uplifted thousands of years ago. Upon arrival, take a dinghy ashore for a dry landing and embark on a 1.5-hour guided walk among abundant wildlife, including colonies of blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, magnificent and great frigatebirds, and playful sea lions. Keep an eye out for Galápagos sharks cruising along the shoreline. Return to the yacht for a delicious dinner, followed by a recap of the day’s highlights and a preview of tomorrow’s adventures.

Accommodations

Passion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 8

SAT - Mosquera Islet & Disembark Baltra

Wake up to the small islet of Mosquera, known for its expansive sandy beach and large colony of sea lions. Before breakfast, take a dinghy ashore for a wet landing and enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, observing sea lions resting and playing along the coast. Return to the yacht for breakfast and time to pack as you cruise toward Baltra. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport for your departing flight or continue on to your next adventure.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Exclusions

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 91 days – $500 service fee
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

Arrival & Departure

Internal Flights

Activities

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 80% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select cabins upon availability. Triple occupancy (2 adults and 1 child) can be arranged in the VIP Suite (1 king bed plus a sofa bed) or Staterooms #3 and #4 (1 full bed, 1 twin bed).

Families & Children

Children under 12 traveling in the same stateroom/suite in triple occupancy receive a 40% discount off the double occupancy rate.

Travel Insurance

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

Rates & Dates

Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

This ship is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter. Contact us for charter pricing and details.

2026 2027 2028

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

May 30 - Jun 06, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jun 06 - Jun 13, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jun 13 - Jun 20, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jun 20 - Jun 27, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jun 27 - Jul 04, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jul 11 - Jul 18, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jul 18 - Jul 25, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jul 25 - Aug 01, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Aug 01 - Aug 08, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Aug 08 - Aug 15, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Aug 15 - Aug 22, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Aug 29 - Sep 05, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Sep 05 - Sep 12, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Sep 12 - Sep 19, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Sep 19 - Sep 26, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Sep 26 - Oct 03, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Oct 03 - Oct 10, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Oct 10 - Oct 17, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Oct 17 - Oct 24, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Oct 24 - Oct 31, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Oct 31 - Nov 07, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Nov 07 - Nov 14, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Nov 14 - Nov 21, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Nov 21 - Nov 28, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Nov 28 - Dec 05, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Dec 05 - Dec 12, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Dec 12 - Dec 19, 2026

Passion • 8 days

From $8880^USD

Per Person

Jan 02 - Jan 09, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jan 09 - Jan 16, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jan 16 - Jan 23, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jan 23 - Jan 30, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jan 30 - Feb 06, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Feb 06 - Feb 13, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Feb 13 - Feb 20, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Feb 20 - Feb 27, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Feb 27 - Mar 06, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Mar 06 - Mar 13, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Mar 13 - Mar 20, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Mar 20 - Mar 27, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Mar 27 - Apr 03, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Apr 03 - Apr 10, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Apr 10 - Apr 17, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Apr 24 - May 01, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

May 01 - May 08, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

May 08 - May 15, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

May 15 - May 22, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

May 22 - May 29, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

May 29 - Jun 05, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jun 05 - Jun 12, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jun 19 - Jun 26, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jun 26 - Jul 03, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jul 03 - Jul 10, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jul 10 - Jul 17, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jul 17 - Jul 24, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jul 24 - Jul 31, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jul 31 - Aug 07, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Aug 07 - Aug 14, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Aug 14 - Aug 21, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Aug 21 - Aug 28, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Aug 28 - Sep 04, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Sep 04 - Sep 11, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Sep 11 - Sep 18, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Sep 18 - Sep 25, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Sep 25 - Oct 02, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Oct 02 - Oct 09, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Oct 09 - Oct 16, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Oct 16 - Oct 23, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Oct 23 - Oct 30, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Oct 30 - Nov 06, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Nov 06 - Nov 13, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Nov 13 - Nov 20, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Nov 20 - Nov 27, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Nov 27 - Dec 04, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Dec 04 - Dec 11, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Dec 11 - Dec 18, 2027

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

Jan 01 - Jan 08, 2028

Passion • 8 days

From $8900^USD

Per Person

West Galapagos Islands

East Galapagos Islands

Accommodation

Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary

Yacht

Passion

The M/Y Passion is a yacht sailing in the Galapagos Islands, offering kayaking and snorkeling options plus various well-appointed social areas.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Kevin Marshall • September 28th, 2018

Expert Review: Passion Galapagos Cruise

Travel aboard the 14-guest Passion. A model of cruising the Galapagos in style, this classic yacht was the ideal base for our Adventure Specialist.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"I Loved Everything About This Trip"

Everywhere we went was breathtaking. I loved everything about this trip. The level of activity; two hikes and two snorkels per day!

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

"Totally Worth It!"

We did the 8-day West Itinerary on M/Y Passion and it exceeded our expectations. Having everything booked and taken care of was amazing and totally worth it! Galapagos has been a place we wanted to experience for a long time and I wanted to do it right.

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

"Definitely Recommend"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

Patti H. - East Falmouth, MA

"I Loved Everything About This Trip"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

Everywhere we went was breathtaking. I loved everything about this trip. The level of activity; two hikes and two snorkels per day! [The Galapagos] has been on my bucket list for years!!! I had no idea of the vastness of knowledge required, hard work and commitment involved in keeping these islands as pristine as they are today. I humbly thank you all for doing what you do.

Since this was my first solo trip out of the country I was a bit concerned about what I might expect. I thought I might be on a vessel with all 70-year-old couples but as it turned out I think I was the oldest one on the trip. The variety of guests was a breath of fresh air. Some were from the United States and some were Ecuadorian. We even had a couple with a little six-year-old boy who was quite the highlight of the trip. It was very interesting to listen to everyone’s stories regarding some of the things that they had done for work, etc.

Accommodations Review

All I could say is I was so pleased with the accommodations and everything. I took pictures and show them to my friends and they could not believe the yacht that I was on.

Meals Review

I enjoyed that I had the opportunity to experience some Ecuadorian cuisine and everything was very tasty and tender and delicious.

Traveler Advice

Just that they should be prepared for the best trip ever!!

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Taylor was like my private coordinator. I was always asking her questions and she was very quick and thorough with responses and would even anticipate what the next question might be. Her demeanor is very helpful, warm and welcoming. Sometimes I would think to myself I can’t believe all that she is doing for me. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Taylor C.

Crew & Guides Review

Luis, our naturalist, was so extremely knowledgeable, sweet and considerate. Since I was traveling solo and not very experienced at snorkeling he would take my hand and point sea life out to me. Luis gave a presentation every evening before dinner, complete with slides of explanations of what we were going to see and the schedule for the next day. I cannot compliment Luis enough. He was extremely knowledgeable and very kind, considerate and compassionate to everyone on the trip. He took his job/responsibility very seriously. Was always concerned for everyone's safety. Amazing!!!!!

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Featured in this Traveler Review

Passion Galapagos Cruises
Passion
Taylor Cranney - Adventure Specialist

Lisa V. - Spokane, WA

"Totally Worth It!"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

We did the 8-day West Itinerary on M/Y Passion and it exceeded our expectations. Everything from the ship, crew, our guide, and the places we visited were outstanding. The flexibility over everyone (including other passengers) allowed us to have the best experience. Having everything booked and taken care of was amazing and totally worth it! I feel we got lucky and all the other passengers were great. We all got along and had similar enjoyment of the activities. On such a small tour, this is important! Galapagos has been a place we wanted to experience for a long time and I wanted to do it right. To get the best experience, I knew we needed to do an 8-day live-aboard with the smallest amount of passengers. It was totally worth the money spent.

Accommodations Review

M/Y Passion is an older vessel but they take great pride and care in it. I'm glad we chose Stateroom 5 as it was above deck and we avoided engine noise and were able to regulate temperature in the room easily (the AC was COLD). Everything else was in tip-top shape!

Meals Review

I really can't say enough about the chef. No main dishes were repeated. The food was excellent and plentiful. Everything was tasty and presented beautifully. I loved the Ecuadorian dishes. I was very impressed with their creativity and being able to accommodate a passenger who could not have dairy or gluten, without making them feel like they missed out on something. There is nothing that could be improved from my experience with that chef.

Crew & Guides Review

If I could give something higher that excellent I would. We had Rafael, who grew up on islands and is an ornithologist (studies bird, specifically sea birds). His knowledge and experience about everything Galapagos is unmatched. His passion and enthusiasm is infectious. He was genuinely excited when spotting things for us and teaching about everything. His goal was to make us feel like we had the islands to ourselves for a trip of a lifetime and he delivered. Even though you can't avoid other tours, he worked the schedule to time visits to get the most personal experience possible. This sometimes meant our morning snorkel was before breakfast but totally worth it!

Transportation Review

The only arrangement made were our Galapagos flights to and from mainland Ecuador and it was all easy.

Itinerary Review

[We most enjoyed] The variety of snorkeling because we were able to see everything on the list! I loved to see specific species both on land and under the water. For example: snorkeling with marine iguanas feeding on algae and swimming, then visiting a place where there are hundreds of them sunning themselves in an island. [We least enjoyed] If I had to pick one it would probably be the visit to Floreana Island to see the tortoises in the highlands. After seeing the giant on Santa Cruz the day before it was a little underwhelming. The hike and learning about the original settlers was fascinating though. I'm glad we did the stop but it is not one I would need to repeat if I went again.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Lauren was amazing. Everything was so well prepared, I didn't worry about anything and whenever I had a specific question, she would contact the tour company and get it answered to me better prepare for the trip. For example, I knew things not included (alcohol, tips) were cash only on the boat. She was able to get me exact pricing for those things so we knew how much to bring. Were were way more prepared than some of fellow passengers! I also especially appreciate all of the ongoing communication, travel tips, and updates.

I normally make all of my travel arrangements and bookings because I enjoy researching and figuring it all out. Visiting the Galapagos is expensive and I wanted to do it right. Having Lauren do the work for this part of our trip was amazing and she is top notch! When the time comes to go to Antarctica, I will call on AdventureSmith Explorations again!

Traveler Advice

Spend the extra money and book a small vessel (no more than 16 people). You will get more time to see the sights. I also suggest an 8-day itinerary because it gets you to the outermost islands. Must have items: good sunscreen, sun hat, sun shirt, sea sickness medication, sense of adventure, and flexibility.

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Featured in this Traveler Review

Passion Galapagos Cruises
Passion
Lauren Pilholski - Adventure Specialist

Thomas C. - Lufkin, TX

"Definitely Recommend"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

This was the trip of a lifetime and it could not have been better. It greatly exceeded our expectations in every moment from start to finish. I definitely recommend to everyone to do a small boat Galapagos tour. Eight days was just the right amount of time, though we hated to leave! The rest of the travelers on our trip were wonderful. Everyone was pleasant and easygoing. We will no doubt stay in contact with several of the other couples. Everyone that likes a trip with a bit of adventure and a bit of luxury should do a tour of the Galapagos. Especially if you like science and nature. This was a trip we've dreamed of for several years. We decided in 2019 that we would do the Galapagos in May of 2022 to celebrate our son's college graduation. Our family are all nature and science lovers.

Accommodations Review

The Passion with 15 passengers was just the right size. It was neat, clean, comfortable, and had a nice layout. Our suites were a nice size. The boat is big enough to find a secluded spot to sit and read or watch the water. Some of the décor is outdated, but all is well maintained and functional.

Meals Review

We ate all the time! Everyone looked forward to the snacks and meals. The food and service were gourmet first class. A lot of local dishes made eating interested and tasty. The chef accommodated the picky eaters and those with food sensitivities.

Crew & Guides Review

Rafael was friendly, smart and informative. He was extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic in all areas of science and nature related to the Galapagos. He did a super job of timing our excursions so that we were rarely around other groups and saw so much wildlife. One of our fellow travelers has a PhD in geology, and she was amazed at how much Rafael knew about the geology. Rafa also kept a watchful eye on the ocean when we were voyaging to other places which led to several sightings of whales and dolphins.

Itinerary Review

[We most enjoyed] It's hard to say because everything was so amazing. Snorkeling with penguins, iguanas, turtles and a variety of fish was our favorite. [We least enjoyed] Nothing. The airport was a bit chaotic, but that's almost by definition!

Transportation Review

We made our own transportation arrangements to and from Quito and for our few days in Quito. Andrew at AdventureSmith made sure that the plans I made seamlessly led right in to the main part of the trip.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Everything was so carefully planned and laid out. We never felt unsure about the next step. All of the fees, and expenses were completely and accurately take care of. They gave us excellent advice on tipping the crew and guides, which can be awkward. They even arranged our return trip mandatory COVID test to be done at our hotel. I already have told several friends and acquaintances about our marvelous experience and how AdventureSmith took great care of us.

Traveler Advice

Definitely do the Galapagos on a small boat with 20 or less travelers and a top notch crew. We got to see and do so much on our excursions because we were able to quickly get into the small launches and get to the island or snorkeling spot. We became friends with all the staff and other passengers so that the trip was comfortable and relaxed.

Learn More

Featured in this Traveler Review

Passion Galapagos Cruises
Passion
Andrew Browning - Adventure Specialist

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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 $795^USD

Year Round

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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.

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5 - 6 Day Land Tour

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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.

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Travel Guides

Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands

View All Galapagos Travel Guides

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.

Travel Essential • September 13th, 2024

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.

Travel Essential • October 2nd, 2025

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.

Travel Essential • August 26th, 2020

How to Charter a Yacht in 7 Steps

Tips every savvy traveler should know when researching how to charter a yacht. This 7-step guide gives you insight from AdventureSmith's many years of arranging charter cruises to exotic destinations worldwide.

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6-8 Day Cruise

Beluga Galapagos Cruises

With panoramic windows in the salon, great deck space, excellent guides and eco-friendly Smart Voyager certification, the 16-guest Beluga is a fantastic way to cruise the Galapagos Islands in speed, style and conservation during your 6- or 8-day cruise.

Cachalote Explorer Galapagos Cruises

Stable and smooth, the 16-passenger Cachalote Explorer is well suited for exploring the best visitor sites in the Galapagos in a small group. Two 8-day itineraries (with shorter 6-day options) offer kayaking, snorkeling and daily shore hikes with naturalist guides.

Grand Majestic Galapagos Cruises

Galapagos cruises aboard the 16-guest Grand Majestic offer an upscale experience on a modern small ship. Enjoy action-packed days, attentive service and the onboard feel of a private yacht.

Special Offer

From $3145^USD

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View All Galapagos Cruises

Passion Galapagos Cruises

8-Day East Itinerary

8-Day West Itinerary

Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Traveler Advice

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Crew & Guides Review

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

Transportation Review

Itinerary Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

Itinerary Review

Transportation Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise

Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands

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Passion Galapagos Cruises

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8-Day East Itinerary

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Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

Learn About the Galapagos Ship on Your Itinerary

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Traveler Advice

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Crew & Guides Review

Featured in this Traveler Review

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

Transportation Review

Itinerary Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Featured in this Traveler Review

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

Itinerary Review

Transportation Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Featured in this Traveler Review

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise

Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands

Trips You Might Also Like

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