Galapagos

Western and Central Galapagos Islands (A)

8 Days aboard M/C Galapagos Eminence. Contact for pricing.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

An unforgettable 8-day journey through the Galápagos Islands, exploring Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, and North Seymour, where volcanic landscapes meet crystal-clear waters teeming with unique wildlife. Each day brings immersive encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, seabirds, penguins, and sea lions, blending conservation, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty across this extraordinary archipelago.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Arrive in Santa Cruz and visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center to learn about giant tortoise conservation.
  • Explore Isabela and nearby islands through volcano hikes, snorkeling, and wildlife-rich coastal sites.
  • Visit Fernandina, Santiago, and North Seymour for close encounters with marine iguanas, seabirds, and dramatic lava landscapes before departure.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: BALTRA AIRPORT - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center
  • Day 2: ISABELA ISLAND: Tintoreras - Sierra Negra Volcano / Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center
  • Day 3: ISABELA ISLAND: Moreno Point - Elizabeth Bay
  • Day 4: FERNANDINA ISLAND: Espinoza Point - ISABELA ISLAND: Vicente Roca Point
  • Day 5: SANTIAGO ISLAND: Egas Port - Buccaneer Cove / Espumilla Beach
  • Day 6: BARTHOLOMEW ISLAND - SANTIAGO ISLAND: Sullivan Bay
  • Day 7: SANTIAGO ISLAND: Chinese Hat - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Dragon Hill
  • Day 8: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND - BALTRA AIRPORT

Ship Information

For more information on the M/C Galapagos Eminence please view the ship page.

View M/C Galapagos Eminence

Travelling with Eclipse

Peace of Mind
  • Eclipse Travel is Australian owned and run, and an ATAS accredited travel agent.
  • 24/7 emergency numbers and local contacts provided for support while you’re abroad.
  • We provide all the information you need to organise your visas and vaccinations, making travel preparation stress-free.
  • No currency surcharges. Once your deposit is paid, your price is guaranteed.
Specialists
  • Our consultants are true destination experts, with firsthand experience and extensive travel in the regions we offer.
  • Expect quick, professional responses and dedicated service from our knowledgeable team.
  • We conduct regular checks on destinations, hotels, and services to ensure quality for every trip.
Authentic Travel
  • Tailor-made itineraries designed around your unique requirements.
  • Freedom to select your preferred style and standard of accommodation.
  • Unique itineraries that take you beyond the major highlights, immersing you in each location.
  • Committed to responsible travel: we reinvest in the environment and local communities across our destinations.

Day 1: BALTRA AIRPORT - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center

Upon arrival, reception and assistance at the airport, followed by transfer to M/C Eminence. In the afternoon, visit to the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, located at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. This important conservation site offers a close look at the work being done to protect the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise. During the visit, guests can observe tortoises at different stages of development, from young hatchlings to fully grown adults, while learning about breeding and repopulation efforts across the archipelago. It is also an excellent introduction to the fragile ecosystems of the islands and the long-term commitment required to preserve them.

Activities: Walking
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 2: ISABELA ISLAND: Tintoreras - Sierra Negra Volcano / Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center

In the morning, guests arrive at Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos. The first excursion takes place at Tintoreras, a group of small lava islets just off the coast. This site is known for its calm waters, volcanic scenery, and remarkable wildlife. Along the trail, marine iguanas often rest on the black rocks, while sea lions and Galapagos penguins are frequently seen nearby. Snorkeling here may reveal white tipped reef sharks resting in shallow channels, which gave this site its name. The morning continues with a visit to Sierra Negra Volcano, whose immense caldera opens onto one of the most impressive volcanic landscapes in the archipelago.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

In the afternoon, visit to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, where conservation programs support several giant tortoise populations native to Isabela Island. During the visit, guests can observe tortoises in different stages of growth and learn more about the protection efforts that help preserve these emblematic reptiles. This stop offers valuable insight into the ecological importance of Isabela and the ongoing work carried out to protect its endemic species.

Activities: Walking
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: ISABELA ISLAND: Moreno Point - Elizabeth Bay

In the morning, visit to Moreno Point, located on the western side of Isabela Island. This visitor site is defined by expansive lava fields created by past volcanic activity. A walk across the dark terrain leads to a series of inland lagoons where flamingos, gallinules, and pintail ducks may be seen. The contrast between the dry lava landscape and the life that gathers around the water makes this visit especially striking. Marine iguanas are commonly found warming themselves on the rocks, and the nearby shoreline may also reveal turtles and rays.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

In the afternoon, discover Elizabeth Bay by dinghy ride. There is no landing at this visitor site, allowing the experience to unfold entirely from the water. Surrounded by red mangroves and quiet channels, the bay offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in a serene setting. Guests may spot Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, rays, pelicans, and flightless cormorants as the dinghy moves through one of the most peaceful marine habitats in the western islands.

Activities: Dinghy ride, kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
Type of landing: No landing
Difficulty: Easy

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: FERNANDINA ISLAND: Espinoza Point - ISABELA ISLAND: Vicente Roca Point

In the morning, visit to Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, one of the most untouched ecosystems in the Galapagos. The lava shoreline is home to one of the largest colonies of marine iguanas in the archipelago, often seen gathered in large numbers across the rocks. Sea lions rest near the coast, Sally Lightfoot crabs add bright color to the black lava, and flightless cormorants can often be observed along the shore. The surrounding scenery is raw and
dramatic, offering one of the most distinctive landscapes of the voyage.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

In the afternoon, continue to Vicente Roca Point, on the northwestern coast of Isabela Island. This spectacular area is known for its cliffs, deep blue waters, and abundant marine life. The nutrient rich waters make this one of the most rewarding places for snorkeling, with chances to see sea turtles, rays, penguins, and other species moving through the bay. The towering rock formations complete a setting that feels both remote and extraordinary.

Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride
Type of landing: No landing
Difficulty: Moderate

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: SANTIAGO ISLAND: Egas Port - Buccaneer Cove / Espumilla Beach

In the morning, guests visit Egas Port on Santiago Island. This historic site combines a rugged coastline with rich wildlife activity. A coastal walk passes lava formations, tide pools, and shorelines where marine iguanas, sea lions, and several bird species can be seen. At the end of the trail lies the well-known fur seal grotto, where Galapagos fur seals often rest in shaded lava crevices close to the sea. The area offers a memorable blend of geology, wildlife, and coastal scenery.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling
Type of landing: Wet Landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

In the afternoon, exploration continues at Buccaneer Cove and Espumilla Beach, located along the northern coast of Santiago. Buccaneer Cove was once used as a refuge by pirates and sailors, and today it stands out for its cliffs and rock formations shaped by the ocean. The nearby beach at Espumilla offers a softer landscape of sand, mangroves, and coastal vegetation, where sea turtles may nest seasonally. Depending on conditions, this visit may
include snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, or a dinghy ride along the coast.

Activities: Walking, Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking/stand-up paddleboarding
Type of landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: BARTHOLOMEW ISLAND - SANTIAGO ISLAND: Sullivan Bay

In the morning, visit to Bartholomew Island, one of the most iconic landscapes in the Galapagos. A wooden stairway leads to a viewpoint with sweeping views over Pinnacle Rock, surrounding bays, and lava formations shaped by volcanic activity. From the summit, guests can appreciate the striking colors and textures of the islands from above. The beach below also offers the chance for snorkeling in clear waters, where tropical fish and, on occasion, Galapagos penguins may be seen.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

In the afternoon, visit to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island. This site is known for its extensive lava field, formed during a relatively recent volcanic eruption. A walk across the hardened surface reveals textures, patterns, and formations that show the volcanic origin of the archipelago in a vivid way. Even in this stark environment, pioneering plants have started to grow, creating a fascinating contrast between fresh lava and new life.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7: SANTIAGO ISLAND: Chinese Hat - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Dragon Hill

In the morning, explore Chinese Hat, a small islet off the coast of Santiago Island. Its name comes from its distinctive cone shape, and the area is known for its beautiful volcanic scenery and rich marine life. A short walk leads across lava formations and along the shoreline, where marine iguanas and sea lions are often present. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkeling, with good chances to see colorful fish, penguins, and other marine species.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, kayaking/stand-up paddleboarding, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Wet landing
Difficulty: Easy

In the afternoon, the yacht sails to Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island. This visitor site features a trail that passes through a dry landscape of cacti and palo santo trees, then continues inland toward lagoons where flamingos and other birds may be seen. Dragon Hill is also one of the key places to observe Galapagos land iguanas, which have been successfully reintroduced to the area through conservation efforts. The walk ends with beautiful views over the coastline and nearby islands.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8: NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND - BALTRA AIRPORT

In the morning, visit to North Seymour, one of the most important nesting sites for seabirds in the Galapagos. The trail crosses a low, flat landscape where blue footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds can often be seen at close range. During the breeding season, male frigatebirds inflate their red throat pouches in a striking courtship display. Sea lions rest along the coast, while marine iguanas and shorebirds can also be spotted throughout the walk. This final excursion offers a memorable closing to the journey.

Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
Type of landing: Dry landing
Difficulty: Moderate

After this last visit, transfer to Baltra Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador. Assistance and farewell at the airport.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 03 Apr 2027
DatesCabinFromAdditional
03 Apr 2027 - 10 Apr 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
Golden SuiteContact us
Loft SuiteContact us
View SuiteContact us
17 Apr 2027 - 24 Apr 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
01 May 2027 - 08 May 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
15 May 2027 - 22 May 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
29 May 2027 - 05 Jun 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
12 Jun 2027 - 19 Jun 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
26 Jun 2027 - 03 Jul 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
10 Jul 2027 - 17 Jul 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
24 Jul 2027 - 31 Jul 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
07 Aug 2027 - 14 Aug 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
21 Aug 2027 - 28 Aug 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
04 Sep 2027 - 11 Sep 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
18 Sep 2027 - 25 Sep 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
02 Oct 2027 - 09 Oct 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
16 Oct 2027 - 23 Oct 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
30 Oct 2027 - 06 Nov 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
13 Nov 2027 - 20 Nov 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
27 Nov 2027 - 04 Dec 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
11 Dec 2027 - 18 Dec 2027 Contact usExpand to view prices
25 Dec 2027 - 01 Jan 2028 Contact usExpand to view prices

**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply

Cabin Details

Golden Suite

54 m²
Among the most spacious standard suites in Galapagos.
Private terrace, Central air conditioning with individual control, Elegant contemporary interiors, Exceptional indoor-outdoor living space.

Golden Suite
Golden Suite
View Suite

65 m²
Panoramic 90° views with private jacuzzi.
Private terrace, Central air conditioning with individual control, Elegant contemporary interiors, Exceptional indoor-outdoor living space.

View Suite
View Suite
Loft Suite

80 m²
Two-story suites with private jacuzzi.
Private terrace, Central air conditioning with individual control, Elegant contemporary interiors, Exceptional indoor-outdoor living space.

Loft Suite
Loft Suite

M/C Galapagos Eminence Deckplan

Specifications

  • Operations Start: April 2027
  • Type: Motor Catamaran
  • Category: Luxury
  • Construction: Aluminum, steel and fiberglass
  • Length Overall: 60.55 m
  • Hull Length: 56.55 m
  • Beam Overall: 15.40 m
  • Beam at Waterline: 14.95 m
  • Draft: 2.20 m
  • Depth: 4.50 m
  • Displacement: 660 tons
  • Total Height: 19.48 m
  • Capacity: 16 Passengers
  • Suites: 9 Suites
  • Guides: 2 naturalist guides from 12 passengers
  • Propulsion: Conventional shaft, 5-blade propeller
  • Main Engines: Hyundai 4V222CASH-II
  • Power: 2 x 736 kW / 1000 PS
  • Rotation Speed: 1800 r.p.m.
  • Generators: Caterpillar C7.1
  • Output: 3 x 150 KWe
  • Voltage: 220 V / 60 Hz
  • Power: 2 x 736 kW / 1000 PS
  • Bow Thrusters: DH700/412TC
  • Power: 2 x 77 kW

What's included?

  • Transfers airport/yacht/airportin Galapagos
  • Airport reception and assistance
  • Guided expeditions accordingto the itinerary
  • Top bilingual National Park guide(English / Spanish)
  • Double accommodation
  • Cruise Service Officer
  • Wifi Onboard
  • Activity daily briefing
  • All meals and snacks
  • Soft drinks and juices
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail
  • Use of sea kayaks and paddle-boards
  • Expedition gear
  • Yoga mats
  • Kettlebells and dumbbells
  • Stargazing laser pointer
  • One glass of wine or local beer(per guest/per night)

What's not?

  • Round flight to Galapagos
  • Galapagos National Park Entrancefee (US$200 - subject to change)
  • Transit Control Card (US$20 - subject to change)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities for guide and crew
  • Travel and health insurance

Important notes and additional information

  • Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to weather conditions,National Park regulations, emergencies on board or any unforeseen situation.

Price Assurance

At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.

Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.

Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.

Take advantage of our team’s expertise and let us help you plan the perfect holiday—hassle-free!

Destination: Galapagos

This once in a lifetime destination is a nature lovers dream. Watch the famous Galapagos tortoises and blue footed boobies in the morning and snorkel with sea lions in the afternoon, then relax on your cruise to the next destination tomorrow!

Downloadable travel guide

Planning your next adventure has never been easier with our free downloadable travel guides. Get in-depth insights into local attractions, dining options, and hidden gems, all curated by our team of travel specialists with decades of experience.

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Western and Central Galapagos Islands (A)

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