Galapagos

Western Galapagos Wildlife And Volcanic Wonders (Itinerary B)

8 Days aboard Galaxy Stella. From AUD $12,537pp.
Small Ship Expeditions
Details

Overview

Prepare to be amazed by the stunning wildlife and breathtaking volcanic landscapes of the Western Galapagos. Explore the unique habitats of native species and witness the raw power of volcanic forces. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unparalleled destination.

Itinerary Highlights

  • Hike through the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island and encounter wild giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
  • Visit marine‑rich sites like Moreno Point and Espinoza Point, home to sea turtles, iguanas, and Galápagos penguins.
  • Explore diverse landscapes and coastal coves with opportunities for snorkeling and observing unique wildlife along the rugged western shores.

Itinerary in Brief

  • Day 1: Santa Cruz Island: Baltra - airport (arrival) - Highlands
  • Day 2: Isabela Island: Tintoreras - Isabela's Wetlands and Interpretation Center
  • Day 3: Isabela Island: Moreno Point - Fernandina Island: Mangle Point
  • Day 4: Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point - Isabela Island: Tagus Cove
  • Day 5: Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove - Egas Port
  • Day 6: Bartolome Island: Bartolome - Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay
  • Day 7: Chinese Hat Island: Chinese Hat - Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill
  • Day 8: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove - Baltra - airport (return)

Ship Information

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Travelling with Eclipse

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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.
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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: Santa Cruz Island: Baltra - airport (arrival) - Highlands

AM: BALTRA AIRPORT (ARRIVAL)
Welcome to Galapagos! Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, your naturalist guide will greet you and assist with the transfer to Itabaca Channel. This initial journey offers your first connection with the archipelago as you take a short ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island. Along the way, observe Baltra’s arid landscape and learn about its history as a former U.S. WWII airbase. This is just the beginning of the many fascinating stories awaiting you on your adventure.

PM: HIGHLANDS
Enjoy a scenic journey into the lush highlands of Santa Cruz. Walk through a reserve where you may spot giant tortoises—some weighing over 600 pounds—grazing peacefully. Observe endemic birds such as finches and flycatchers. If included in your itinerary, explore a lava tunnel, a fascinating remnant of the volcanic forces that shaped these islands.

Lava tunnels, Darwin finches, Galapagos flycatchers, Giant tortoises, Barn owls, White-cheeked pintails

Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 2: Isabela Island: Tintoreras - Isabela's Wetlands and Interpretation Center

AM: TINTORERAS
Located close to Puerto Villamil, Tintoreras is a small islet teeming with wildlife. Its shores are filled with sunbathing marine iguanas and resting sea lions. In its shallow channels, rays and sea turtles glide gracefully, while reef sharks, locally known as "Tintoreras" patrol the area. Herons and gulls are frequent visitors, and with some luck, you might spot a Galapagos penguin, as a few individuals inhabit the region. This site offers a perfect glimpse into Isabela's rich natural heritage.

Highlights: White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, Sea turtles, Manta rays

PM: ISABELA’S WETLANDS AND INTERPRETATION CENTER
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Isabela’s wetlands, a crucial ecosystem for Galapagos’ biodiversity. Walk along trails through mangroves and saline lagoons, where pink flamingos, blue-billed ducks, and other aquatic birds thrive. This natural sanctuary showcases the island’s remarkable wildlife. Conclude your day at the Interpretation Center, where you’ll gain insight into Galapagos’ natural and human history, its conservation challenges, and the ongoing efforts to protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights: Mangroves, Flamingoes, Ducks

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 3: Isabela Island: Moreno Point - Fernandina Island: Mangle Point

AM: MORENO POINT
Start your day exploring Moreno Point, a stunning volcanic landscape that appears barren but is brimming with life. Venture inland to discover brackish lagoons, home to flamingos, gallinules, ducks, and herons. Along the rugged coast, spot Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Sea lions and oystercatchers are also frequent visitors, making this site a remarkable showcase of how life thrives even in Galapagos’ harshest environments.

Snorkel Experience: Snorkel into the clear waters of Moreno Point and swim alongside sea turtles, cormorants, and tropical fish. If you look closely among the seaweed, you might even spot the elusive seahorse.

Highlights: Stunning Views, Galapagos mockingbirds, Darwin finches, American flamingoes, Flightless cormorants, Marine iguanas, Ducks, Gallinules

PM: MANGLE POINT
Start your day at Mangle Point, an ecological paradise on the untouched Fernandina Island. This site is a biodiversity haven where mangrove forests provide a crucial habitat for many marine species. As your boat glides through crystal-clear waters, observe sea turtles weaving through the mangrove roots and rays resting on the sandy bottom. This location offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature, experiencing firsthand the intricate symbiosis between the mangrove ecosystem and marine life.

Snorkel Experience: Immerse yourself in the calm waters of Mangle Point and swim among sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. This underwater sanctuary offers a unique experience, exploring the biodiversity thriving between the mangroves and coral reefs.

Highlights: Mangroves, Rays, Sea turtles

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 4: Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point - Isabela Island: Tagus Cove

AM: ESPINOZA POINT
Espinoza Point is a true natural wonder, set at the base of the most active volcano in Galapagos. As you step ashore, you’ll be greeted by the largest colony of marine iguanas basking on black volcanic rocks. Sea lions lounge on the beach while their pups explore tide pools. Flightless cormorants patrol the shoreline, and in the mangroves, Galapagos hawks scan for prey. Blessed with cold, plankton-rich waters, this area teems with life—herons, oystercatchers, pelicans, and sea turtles all thrive in this untouched habitat.

Snorkel Experience: The nutrient-rich waters of Espinoza Point attract fish, sea turtles, and foraging cormorants. Watch marine iguanas feeding on algae and follow a cormorant as it chases fish through the reef—an unforgettable snorkeling experience in Galapagos.

Highlights: Stunning Views, Herons, Galapagos penguins, Oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks, Marine iguanas, Sea turtles, Shorebirds

PM: TAGUS COVE
Tagus Cove is steeped in history, once visited by Charles Darwin during his Galapagos exploration. A scenic trail winds through dry Palo Santo forests, where Darwin’s finches and mockingbirds can be spotted. At the top, breathtaking views of Lake Darwin and Isabela’s towering volcanoes await. A boat tour along the shore provides a chance to observe Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, and the elusive Galapagos martin, one of the rarest and most endangered birds in the archipelago.

Snorkel Experience: The nutrient-rich waters of Tagus Cove attract sea turtles, tropical fish, and penguins feasting on anchovies. Flightless cormorants can often be seen chasing fish underwater, creating a truly unique snorkeling experience.

Highlights: Stunning Views, Herons, Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, Flightless cormorants, Marine iguanas, Sea turtles, Sea stars

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 5: Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove - Egas Port

AM: BUCCANEER COVE
Known as a hideout for pirates and buccaneers in the 17th and 18th centuries, Buccaneer Cove is a site steeped in history and natural beauty. Here, sailors hid their treasures and gathered fresh water and tortoises for long voyages. Today, this stunning landscape of cliffs and rock formations is home to diverse wildlife. While there is no trail, a dinghy ride allows you to explore the cove, admire its dramatic scenery, and observe seabirds and other species that inhabit this legendary Galapagos site.

Snorkel Experience: Snorkel in the sheltered waters of Buccaneer Cove, surrounded by vibrant marine life. Swim among schools of angelfish, parrotfish, and snappers, as well as reef sharks, sea turtles, and playful sea lions.

PM: EGAS PORT
Puerto Egas is a fascinating destination where history and wildlife intertwine. While there is no actual port, remnants of 1960s colonization attempts still stand. The coastal trail is teeming with marine iguanas basking in the sun and sea lions resting on the rocks. Herons, oystercatchers, and shorebirds complete this thriving ecosystem. Towards the end of the trail, the grottos are home to a small colony of the elusive Galapagos fur seal. Additionally, land iguanas were reintroduced to the island in 2019 after over a century of absence.

Snorkel Experience: A snorkeling session from the beach will lead you to an area of rocky bottoms, excellent for observing fish, turtles, and reef sharks. Sea lions often frequent this area and are typically open to interacting with divers.

Stunning Views, Herons, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos fur seals, Oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks, Darwin finches, Marine and land iguanas, Galapagos doves, Shorebirds

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 6: Bartolome Island: Bartolome - Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay

AM: BARTOLOME
Bartolome is one of the most iconic islands in Galapagos, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscape and the famous Pinnacle Rock. Nestled beside a peach-colored sand beach, this island is one of the few places where you can spot penguins without traveling to remote Isabela and Fernandina. The hike to the summit offers breathtaking views of a lunar-like terrain dotted with volcanic cones, with stunning panoramas of Sullivan Bay and Pinnacle Rock. From the top, the vast beauty of the archipelago unfolds before you, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Snorkel Experience: Enjoy an unforgettable snorkeling experience in Bartolome, one of Galapagos’ top spots. Swim in calm, clear waters alongside penguins, colorful fish, sea turtles, sea lions, rays, and reef sharks in a thriving marine ecosystem.

Highlights: Volcanic landscapes, Pinnacle rock, Herons, Bluefooted boobies, Galapagos penguins

PM: SULLIVAN BAY
Walking through Sullivan Bay is a fascinating journey into the volcanic origins of the Galapagos Islands. The trail crosses a vast Pahoehoe lava flow, showcasing unique textures that reveal the story of past eruptions. While the terrain may seem desolate at first, a closer look unveils pioneer plants, scurrying lava lizards, and small birds adapted to this extreme environment. Along the shore, the stark landscape is brightened by the presence of penguins, pelicans, and oystercatchers, adding a vibrant contrast to the stunning volcanic scenery.

Snorkel Experience: After the hike, unwind with a swim or snorkeling session from a coral-sand beach or a dinghy. The contrast with the barren land is striking—schools of fish, Galapagos penguins, reef sharks, sea turtles, and rays thrive in this vibrant marine ecosystem.

Highlights: Lava tubes, Galapagos penguins, Oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 7: Chinese Hat Island: Chinese Hat - Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill

AM: CHINESE HAT
Named for its distinctive cone shape, Chinese Hat is a small islet separated from Santiago by a narrow channel, forming one of Galapagos’ most picturesque bays. Its turquoise waters, coral-sand beaches, and volcanic rocks create a stunning landscape. A coastal trail leads you through a sea lion colony, while on the lava rocks, you may spot penguins resting. This site perfectly blends breathtaking scenery with Galapagos’ remarkable wildlife, making for an unforgettable experience.

Snorkel Experience: Snorkel into the crystal-clear waters of Chinese Hat and marvel at the vibrant colors of the fish. Spot sleek reef sharks and, if lucky, a penguin darting through the water like a swift underwater torpedo chasing anchovies.

Highlights: Lava tubes, Galapagos sea lions, Galapagos penguins, Oystercatchers, Galapagos hawks

PM: DRAGON HILL
Located on Santa Cruz’s northern coast, Dragon Hill is the only place on the island where land iguanas roam freely. Once near extinction in the 70s and 80s, their population has successfully rebounded. As you explore this unique ecosystem, you’ll also spot a saltwater lagoon where flamingos, ducks, and shorebirds often gather.

Snorkel Experience: After the hike, dive into calm, shallow waters for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Swim among schools of surgeonfish and parrotfish, and spot reef sharks, rays, and vibrant tropical fish.

Highlights: Herons, Darwin finches, Galapagos flycatchers, White-cheeked pintails, American flamingoes, Galapagos land iguanas

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.

Day 8: Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove - Baltra - airport (return)

AM: BLACK TURTLE COVE
Set off on a dinghy tour through Black Turtle Cove, a shallow-water haven surrounded by lush mangroves. This sanctuary is home to sea turtles, reef sharks, and various species of rays. It also serves as a crucial breeding ground for turtles and sharks. Watch herons, boobies, and pelicans hunt among schools of anchovies. Though there’s no landing, the incredible wildlife seen from the boat offers an up-close and unforgettable experience.

Mangroves, White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, Green sea turtles, Rays, Herons, Blue footed boobies, Reef sharks

PM: BALTRA AIRPORT (RETURN)
Your Galapagos adventure comes to an end. Today, you will be transferred to Baltra Airport, where your National Park naturalist guide will assist you with final details before your flight back to mainland Ecuador. As you bid farewell to this paradise, take with you the unforgettable memories of one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Breakfast included.

Next Departure Date: 05 Aug 2026
DatesCabinFromAdditional
05 Aug 2026 - 12 Aug 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
Matrimonial CabinAUD$12537pp testContact us
Twin CabinAUD$12537pp testContact us
Master CabinAUD$13104pp testContact us
19 Aug 2026 - 26 Aug 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
02 Sep 2026 - 09 Sep 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
16 Sep 2026 - 23 Sep 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
30 Sep 2026 - 07 Oct 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
14 Oct 2026 - 21 Oct 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
28 Oct 2026 - 04 Nov 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
11 Nov 2026 - 18 Nov 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
25 Nov 2026 - 02 Dec 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices
09 Dec 2026 - 16 Dec 2026 AUD$12537ppExpand to view prices

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

Cabin Details

Master Cabin

The Master cabin, located on the Maindeck, is the yacht’s main suite, designed for the owner and their family. Its design prioritizes spaciousness and privacy, with a precise layout that balances comfort and functionality in each area. It includes a double bed, a generously sized bathroom with double shower, and a separate study, creating a distinguished and private environment. Designed for those who appreciate large spaces and life on board with maximum comfort, this suite offers a superior level of livability, accompanied by the natural rhythm of the sea.

Master Cabin
Master Cabin
Matrimonial Cabin

The master cabins on the Lowerdeck feature a king-size bed, private bathroom, and integrated wardrobe. Their understated design promotes rest and relaxation, offering a tidy and comfortable environment after each day of exploration.

Matrimonial Cabin
Matrimonial Cabin
Twin Cabin

The twin cabins feature separate beds, a private bathroom, and carefully arranged furniture. Designed to be shared with friends, they combine flexibility and comfort with harmonious design.

Twin Cabin
Twin Cabin

Galaxy Stella Deckplan

Specifications

  • Guests: 12
  • Cabins: 6
  • Crew: 7
  • Starlink Wifi
  • Bilingual Guide: 1

What's included?

  • Airport assistance on the cruise departure dates
  • Transportation and fuel surcharge in the Marine reserve of Galapagos
  • Accommodation in single, double or triple cabin according to your booking (except M/C Galaxy Sirius, M/Y Galaxy Stella & M/C Alya)
  • Bilingual naturalist guide (English-Spanish)
  • Personalized crew service
  • All meals during the cruise, from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day.
  • One snack after each activity (except last day)
  • Welcome cocktail
  • Unlimited purified water, coffee and tea
  • All visits, excursions & activities according to the itinerary
  • Transportation Airport-Channel/ Channel-Airport (Lobitos Bus)
  • Private Transportation Airport-Channel/ Channel-Airport only on M/C Galaxy Sirius & M/Y Galaxy Stella
  • VIP Lounge at Baltra and San Cristobal airport on M/C Galaxy Sirius & Galaxy Stella
  • Docks use and ferries.
  • Snorkeling gear (Mask, tube, and fins)
  • Use of kayaks and paddle boards in authorized places. No paddle boards available on Galaxy Diver 2 and Galaxy Orion
  • Wetsuits
  • Shampoo, hair conditioner, and soap for daily use
  • Beach towels
  • Soft drinks (only onboard M/C Galaxy Sirius, M/Y Galaxy Stella & M/C Alya)
  • Hair dryer in the cabins (not available onboard M/Y Bonita)

What's not?

  • International flights to/from Ecuador
  • Galapagos Islands airfare from/to mainland (Quito or Guayaquil)
  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($200 per person)
  • Transit Control Card ($20 per person)
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance (Highly recommended)
  • Additional services not indicated

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

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Western Galapagos Wildlife And Volcanic Wonders (Itinerary B)

8 Days aboard Galaxy Stella. From AUD $12,537pp.