Aqua Mare Liveaboard, Galapagos Islands
Luxurious super-yacht offering premium comfort, service, and exceptional Galapagos naturalist safaris
per person
per person
Overview
- Stay on board the first super-yacht to sail the Galapagos
- Sumptuous social spaces with wrap-around seating and flatscreen TVs
- Outdoor Jacuzzi, workout zone, and a water-level ‘Beach Club’ lounge
- Make use of snorkeling gear, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and more
The first true super-yacht offering scheduled itineraries in the Galapagos Islands, Aqua Mare takes an iconic once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the next level - out-performing other yachts in the region when it comes to speed, range, space, and style. An extravagant suite of world-class watersports facilities, including snorkling gear and unique tenders, are on hand to help guests experience the island's renowned wildlife and nature through tailor-made, expert-led excursions. After a day spent exploring, this vessel’s expansive size, personalised service, and indulgent luxuries, such as an outdoor Jacuzzi and delectable cuisine, provide the perfect respite.
- Number of cabins:7
- Internet:YES
- Nitrox:NO
- Equipment rental:YES
- Guest / Guide:7:1
- Group booking discounts
Choose your trip
- 1Nov 20248D / 7N
Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island (East Galapagos) 7N
0 divesfrom $10,500Overview
8 days / 7 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
01 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
Return
08 Nov 2024
08:00 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
Day 1: Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to Aqua Mare. After lunch, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches, and small ground finches. For those who prefer to snorkel, you will likely encounter sea turtles at the beach. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.Day 2: This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahia Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkelling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco where you’ll be able to view fur seals. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After lunch and a lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available. Enjoy a tasty lunch as the boat sails to Santa Cruz for an afternoon excursion to Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill. Back onboard, enjoying the best of the region’s flavours through seafood specialties.Day 5: This morning you will explore a giant tortoise reserve to see these interesting creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and possibly Galapagos rails.After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands. There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. For divers, there is the option of a full day of diving instead of joining the day’s excursions.Day 6: This morning’s excursion is to Punta Suárez, one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island for your penultimate day. Here we will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to take advantage of the last full day in the Galapagos Islands by snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at Plaza Sur Island and head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide. Back on board, toast farewell under the amazing starlit skies of the archipelago over a glass of wine.Day 8: You begin your last day with a luxurious breakfast before bidding farewell to the Aqua Mare crew. Your last visit before leaving paradise is a final short excursion to drive up the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to the twin craters of Los Gemelos enroute to the airport. It is a remarkable location surrounded by lush vegetation. Memories of this last adventure will accompany you as you are escorted to Baltra Island for the departing flight back to the mainland and onward journey home.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.4 spaces left - 1Nov 202415D / 14N
Baltra Island - Baltra Island (East and West Galapagos) 14N
0 divesfrom $19,950Overview
15 days / 14 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
01 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
Return
15 Nov 2024
08:00 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
- Visit a flamingo lagoon, Post Office Bay, Baroness Lookout, and more
Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to Aqua Mare. After lunch, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches, and small ground finches. For those who prefer to snorkel, you will likely encounter sea turtles at the beach. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.Day 2: This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahia Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkelling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco where you’ll be able to view fur seals. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After lunch and a lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available. Enjoy a tasty lunch as the boat sails to Santa Cruz for an afternoon excursion to Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill. Back onboard, enjoying the best of the region’s flavours through seafood specialties.Day 5: This morning you will explore a giant tortoise reserve to see these interesting creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and possibly Galapagos rails.After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands. There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. For divers, there is the option of a full day of diving instead of joining the day’s excursions.Day 6: This morning’s excursion is to Punta Suárez, one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island where you will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to go snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at Plaza Sur Island and head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide.Day 8: Build your own adventure today from a selection of activities such as a morning run to Academy Bay for a beach morning, an introductory scuba dive with a local certified dive operator, hike to the Las Grietas fissure canyon for a cool snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or even choose to bicycle around and outside of Puerto Ayora town.You will be able to meet new companions joining you onward for the next seven nights over another delicious lunch aboard. As they explore the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center in the afternoon, yours is free to spend at your leisure - just let our Cruise Director know and all the arrangements will be made. If you prefer to slow down the pace, our tenders can take you out for a short snorkelling excursion, or stay onboard Aqua Mare to sunbathe on our upper deck sun loungers. Regroup at the end of the day over dinner where our chefs will presentyou with a dazzling array of native ingredients.Day 9: This morning we will be anchored in the southern part of the Archipelago at Floreana Island. After breakfast, the morning’s wet landing excursion will take you to a big brackish water lagoon to observe greater flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts, and other shore birds at Punta Cormorant. You will be able to observe where sea turtles nest at night, and spot stingrays and sharks swimming very close to the shore. For those wishing to dive, a morning rendezvous diving option is available.After lunch on board, head back out to Floreana to pay tribute to an old island tradition at Bahia Post Office. The visit will follow another quick tour of what once was a fishing enterprise in the 1920s before continuing onboard the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa.Day 10: After a night of sailing, we will arrive on the western side of Isabela Island. For the morning excursion, a hike at Punta Moreno takes us among mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks. You will also embark on a dinghy ride to observe marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins among other species.In the afternoon, the Aqua Mare will sail north to Bahía Urbina, where you can see land iguanas, some of the biggest marine iguanas roaming free in the Archipelago, and on occasion, tortoises as well. We’ll end the day with an unforgettable view of Isabela’s five volcanoes.Day 11: Our next anchorage is Punta Espinoza. The region is famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and lizards. We might come across Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, and snakes as well. You will spend the morning on shore with the option to snorkel before returning to the yacht for lunch.Crossing the Bolivar Channel back towards Isabela Island, you will visit Caleta Tagus - once a favourite anchorage spot for pirates and whalers. Here we will hike to see Darwin Lake, a saltwater lake trapped inside a tuff cone. If you would rather not hike, you can go kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, or take a ride on our elegant black tenders.Day 12: This morning, we’ll take a tender ride to Caleta Bucanero, a 17th century pirate rest stop where pirates used to stock up on fresh tortoise meat and fresh water. In case ocean conditions are unfavourable, we’ll visit Playa Espumilla instead, a golden sandy beach which is a well-known breeding ground for sea turtles.We head back to the yacht for lunch, before exploring the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas, northwest of Santiago Island. You will be able to walk the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or snorkel to watch sea turtles, sea lions, and whitetip reef sharks.Day 13: Depart by tender to Rábida Island, also known as the red island. You will be able to hike, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or snorkel, as well as observe hundreds of sea lions who have made their home on the beach. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available.After a delicious lunch, listen to an afternoon lecture presented by our expert guides. The Aqua Mare will sail towards the north of Santa Cruz Island, to Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary that is home to sea turtles. This is a tender ride excursion as there is no landing site, but you will be able to spot green sea turtles, as well as blacktip and Galapagos sharks.Day 14: Your penultimate day in the Archipelago begins with refreshing breakfast before heading out to Seymour Norte Island - known for its healthy population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigate birds. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available. After a morning full of fun activities, you will head back to the yacht for a delicious lunch aboard Aqua Mare.For the afternoon excursion, hop on to one of our tenders for a wet landing onto Mosquera Island - one of the hotspots for spotting sea lions. Around sunset you will return to the sleek comfort of Aqua Mare for your last evening aboard.Day 15: Enjoy the views from Aqua Mare as we circumnavigate Daphne Island before making our way to Baltra Island for disembarkation. You will be escorted to the airport for your flight back to the mainland.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.Sold out - 8Nov 20248D / 7N
Santa Cruz Island - Baltra Island (West Galapagos) 7N
0 divesfrom $10,500Overview
8 days / 7 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
08 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
Return
15 Nov 2024
08:00 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
- Visit a flamingo lagoon, Post Office Bay, Baroness Lookout, and more
Day 1: Once you arrive at the airport, you will be met by our team and escorted to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. On the way, enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch at a Giant Tortoise Reserve, followed by your first excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz. Once you arrive at the vessel, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.In the evening, you will have some leisure time to explore the main town of Puerto Ayora. We recommend strolling along the main waterfront where you can stop by the many boutiques and jewellery shops before heading back to the ship for an evening of presentations.Day 2: On your second morning in the Galapagos, we will be anchored in the southern part of the Archipelago at Floreana Island. After breakfast, the morning’s wet landing excursion will take you to a big brackish water lagoon to observe greater flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts, and other shore birds at Punta Cormorant. You will be able to observe where sea turtles nest at night, and spot stingrays and sharks swimming very close to the shore. For those wishing to dive, a morning rendezvous diving option is available.After lunch on board, head back out to Floreana to pay tribute to an old island tradition at Bahia Post Office. The visit will follow another quick tour of what once was a fishing enterprise in the 1920s before continuing onboard the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa.Day 3: After a night of sailing, we will arrive on the western side of Isabela Island. For the morning excursion, a hike at Punta Moreno takes us among mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks. You will also embark on a dinghy ride to observe marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins among other species.In the afternoon, the Aqua Mare will sail north to Bahía Urbina, where you can see land iguanas, some of the biggest marine iguanas roaming free in the Archipelago, and on occasion, tortoises as well. We’ll end the day with an unforgettable view of Isabela’s five volcanoes.Day 4: Our next anchorage is Punta Espinoza. The region is famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and lizards. We might come across Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, and snakes as well. You will spend the morning on shore with the option to snorkel before returning to the yacht for lunch.Crossing the Bolivar Channel back towards Isabela Island, you will visit Caleta Tagus - once a favourite anchorage spot for pirates and whalers. Here we will hike to see Darwin Lake, a saltwater lake trapped inside a tuff cone. If you would rather not hike, you can go kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, or take a ride on our elegant black tenders.Day 5: This morning, we’ll take a tender ride to Caleta Bucanero, a 17th century pirate rest stop where pirates used to stock up on fresh tortoise meat and fresh water. In case ocean conditions are unfavourable, we’ll visit Playa Espumilla instead, a golden sandy beach which is a well-known breeding ground for sea turtles.We head back to the yacht for lunch, before exploring the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas, northwest of Santiago Island. You will be able to walk the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or snorkel to watch sea turtles, sea lions, and whitetip reef sharks.Day 6: Depart by tender to Rábida Island, also known as the red island. You will be able to hike, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or snorkel, as well as observe hundreds of sea lions who have made their home on the beach. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available.After a delicious lunch, listen to an afternoon lecture presented by our expert guides. The Aqua Mare will sail towards the north of Santa Cruz Island, to Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary that is home to sea turtles. This is a tender ride excursion as there is no landing site, but you will be able to spot green sea turtles, as well as blacktip and Galapagos sharks.Day 7: Your penultimate day in the Archipelago begins with refreshing breakfast before heading out to Seymour Norte Island - known for its healthy population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigate birds. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available. After a morning full of fun activities, you will head back to the yacht for a delicious lunch aboard Aqua Mare.For the afternoon excursion, hop on to one of our tenders for a wet landing onto Mosquera Island - one of the hotspots for spotting sea lions. Around sunset you will return to the sleek comfort of Aqua Mare for your last evening aboard.Day 8: Enjoy the views from Aqua Mare as we circumnavigate Daphne Island before making our way to Baltra Island for disembarkation. You will be escorted to the airport for your flight back to the mainland.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.Sold out - 8Nov 202415D / 14N
Santa Cruz Island - Santa Cruz Island (West and East Galapagos) 14N
0 divesfrom $19,950Overview
15 days / 14 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
08 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
Return
22 Nov 2024
08:00 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
- Visit a flamingo lagoon, Post Office Bay, Baroness Lookout, and more
Day 1: Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to the jetty. Receive a warm welcome aboard Aqua Mare where a delicious Nikkei-inspired lunch crafted by consultant chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino will be served. At your leisure, pick out your snorkelling kit complete with mask, fins, snorkel, and an optional shorty wetsuit for your personal use during the trip. You will also receive a waterproof bag and water bottle.The afternoon will see you head out onto your first excursion to the beautiful white beachof Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. It is possible to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches or the small ground finch among the coastal vegetation. For those who prefer to snorkel, the beach is one of the main nesting sites of sea turtles. Head home to the yacht for the evening to indulge in your first sumptuous dinner in the Archipelago, making it the perfect start to your Galapagos Islands adventure.Day 2: This morning explore Genovesa Island, where you will take a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco to view the fur seals resting inside rock crevices. A 1.5 km hike inland takes us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels. After the visit we will return to the yacht to get suited up for your snorkelling session to view bottlenose dolphins, schools of hammerhead sharks, colourful fish and pristine corals. The afternoon sees us at Bahía Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to the northeast of Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After a sumptuous lunch and lecture on the geology of the Galapagos Islands from one of our expert scientist guides on board Aqua Mare, we head towards Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. The surrounding crystal-clear waters provide a great opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. Return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a barbecue dinner on the upper deck, with the volcanic island serving as a stunning backdrop to your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht for lunch as we sail towards Santa Cruz Island. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.Our afternoon excursion takes us to Cerro Dragón or Dragon Hill, so named because in 1975 it was one of the only places in the Santa Cruz Island where scientists could still find a healthy population of land iguanas. The hiking trail begins with a wet landing and continues inland to a flamingo lagoon, ending with the option to swim and snorkel from the beach or walk along the mangroves and sand dunes of the south beach.Back onboard, swap tales of your magnificent excursion over an al fresco dinner encompassing flavours from the South American Pacific coast and Peruvian Nikkei style crafted by consultant chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino.Day 5: This morning you will explore the El Chato Giant Tortoise Reserve to see these wildGalapagos Islands creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great placeto observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flightcatchers, cattle egrets, and if luckyGalapagos Rails.After a mouth-watering lunch and afternoon lecture on the evolution of Darwin’s finchespresented by our expert guides in the panoramic lounge, you will take a tender ride toDarwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the FaustoLlerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands.There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship.Refreshing superfruit juices await at our Beach Club, which is located at water level at theaft of the ship or enjoy the scenic sunset views from the upper deck. For divers there is theoption of a full day of diving instead of joining the day excursions.Day 6: Rise and shine to disembark in Punta Suárez for this morning’s excursion. This visitor site is one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna such as Española mockingbirds, lava lizards, Galapagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and the unique waved albatross.In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will beable to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, rays and many different species of reef fishes. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos Islands.Back at the yacht, head over to our bar to socialise over Happy Hour with a glass of our special Aqua Bloody Mary as the crew prepares for departure to our next anchorage.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island for your seventh day. It is one of the oldest in the Galapagos Islands, characterised to some degree by its vegetation of palo santo trees, pear cactus, and many other native bushes. Here we will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, swallow-tailed gulls, shearwater petrels, red-billed tropicbirds, mockingbirds, Darwin’s finches, and Galapagos hawks. After the visit, we will be able to head out for more activities, so take your pick of snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at this small, but diverse little islet to head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide to discover its unique landforms. Swap notes on everything you’ve seen today at your final recap briefing once back aboard and toast farewell under the Archipelago’s amazing starlit skies to your new found friends over a glass of wine.Day 8: Build your own adventure today from a selection of activities such as a morning run to Academy Bay for a beach morning, an introductory scuba dive with a local certified dive operator, hike to the Las Grietas fissure canyon for a cool snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or even choose to bicycle around and outside of Puerto Ayora town.You will be able to meet new companions joining you onward for the next seven nights over another delicious lunch aboard. As they explore the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center in the afternoon, yours is free to spend at your leisure - just let our Cruise Director know and all the arrangements will be made. If you prefer to slow down the pace, our tenders can take you out for a short snorkelling excursion, or stay onboard Aqua Mare to sunbathe on our upper deck sun loungers. Regroup at the end of the day over dinner where our chefs will presentyou with a dazzling array of native ingredients.Day 9: For your ninth morning in the Galapagos Islands, we will be anchored in the southern part of the Archipelago at Floreana Island. After breakfast, the morning wet landing excursion will take you to a big brackish water lagoon to observe Greater Flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts and other shore birds at Punta Cormorant. You will be able to observe where sea turtles nest at night, and spot stingrays and sharks swimming very close to the shore. Later you will return to the boat to prepare for kayaking or take a short tender ride to Devil’s Crown for snorkelling. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.Enjoy a splendid lunch consisting of fresh Ecuadorian recipes with an Andean twist before heading back out to Floreana to pay tribute to an old island tradition at Bahía Post Office. The visit will follow another quick tour of what once was a fishing enterprise in the 1920sbefore continuing onboard the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa. A delicious feast showcasing Japanese technique combined with Peruvian seasoning using only the freshest local fish and seafood awaits when you return onboard Aqua Mare. Stay out on the upper deck with a cocktail if you would like to admire the northern and southern hemispheres’ starlit skies tonight.Day 10: After a night of sailing, the morning sees our beautiful superyacht anchored on thewestern side of Isabela Island. As the biggest and youngest island in the Archipelago,Isabela was formed by five relatively young volcanoes and is characterised by gianttortoises and marine iguanas. For the morning excursion, a hike at Punta Moreno takes usto the mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks resulting from a large basaltic lava flowwhich came from the Cerro Azul volcano on Isabela hundreds of years ago. There aremangrove lagoons along the shore and small saltwater lagoons inland, where you willobserve ducks, shore birds, stilts, blue-winged teals, flamingos, and gallinules. After the visityou will have the opportunity to go snorkelling near the shore or return to the yacht to restand enjoy the majestic landscapes Isabela has to offer.In the afternoon, the yacht will sail north to Bahía Urbina. Here you can see tortoises, land iguanas and the biggest marine iguanas roaming free in the Archipelago. We end the day with an unforgettable view of Isabela’s five volcanoes as we dine beneath the stars.Day 11: Our next anchorage point is Punta Espinoza, part of a huge lava flow formed from one of the many eruptions of the La Cumbre volcano, known to be one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, lizards and snakes. You will spend the morning on shore with the option to snorkel before returning to the yacht for a sumptuous lunch and lecture on the geology of the Galapagos Islands from one of our expert scientist guides.As Aqua Mare crosses the Bolivar Channel back towards Isabela Island, prepare to channel your inner pirate for the afternoon excursion visiting Caleta Tagus, once a favourite anchorage spot for pirates and whalers. Here we will hike to see Darwin Lake, a saltwaterlake trapped inside a tuff cone. If you would rather not hike, you can take your pick fromour eight double kayaks, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, or a ride on our elegantblack tenders to explore the cove and its surroundings.Return to the yacht for evening sundowners and head to the bridge after dinner for a chat with our captain as we cross the equatorial line twice while rounding the top of Isabela Island sailing to our next anchorage point.Day 12: This morning sees us disembark on the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas, northwest of Santiago Island. Once the location of a salt mine (1967), today you can take a two and a half-hour hike to find the abandoned mine turned into a shallow saltwater lake. For those who prefer to stay by the beach, you will be able to walk the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or snorkel to watch sea turtles, sea lions and white-tipped sharks.We head back to the yacht for lunch encompassing flavours of the South American Pacificcoast and Peruvian Nikkei style crafted by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Then our tenders willcontinue their adventure to Playa Espumilla, where a wet landing will set us upon a goldensandy beach, a well-known breeding ground for sea turtles. You will also visit CaletaBucanero, a 17th century pirate rest stop where pirates used to stock up on fresh tortoisemeat and fresh water. The day will end with a choice of snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-uppaddleboarding before winding down back on board with Happy Hour over a glass of oursignature cocktails as the crew prepares for departure to our next adventure.Day 13: Awake to the sounds of nature and a fresh breakfast before departing by tender toRábida Island, also known as the Red Island. The colour is the result of oxidation of very oldporous lava. You will be able to hike, take out one of our eight double kayaks, stand-uppaddleboards, or snorkel, as well as observe hundreds of sea lions who have made theirhome on the beach. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After a delicious lunch, you can listen to an afternoon lecture on the evolution of Darwin’sfinches presented by our expert guides in the panoramic lounge. The Aqua Mare will sailtowards the north of Santa Cruz Island, to Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary thatis home to sea turtles. This is a tender ride excursion as there is no landing site, but you willbe able to spot green sea turtles, as well as three different types of sharks - the black tip, theGalapagos, and the famous blue shark. End this glorious day discovering more of ChefPedro Miguel Schiaffino’s masterful and innovative farm-to-table creations at dinner.Day 14: Your penultimate day in the Archipelago begins with refreshing breakfast before heading out to Seymour Norte Island, formed by uprisings of underwater volcanic lavas some 3.1 million years ago. The island is mostly known for its healthy population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigatebirds. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After a morning full of fun activities, you will head back to the yacht for a delicious lunch aboard Aqua Mare. For the afternoon excursion, hop on to one of our tenders for a wet landing onto Mosquera Island. While the rock pile is one of the smallest in the Archipelago, it is home to one of the largest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos Islands, and if you’re lucky you may even spot migratory orcas. Around sunset you will return to the sleek comfort of Aqua Mare for your last evening aboard. Swap notes on everything you’ve experienced during this most incredible adventure with your friends onboard and toast farewell with something special from our curated wine list.Day 15: The last day begins with a luxurious breakfast set against the morning sunrise before setting out for one final excursion by tender. You will enjoy the views of the fragile visitor site of Daphne Island, a scientific use zone for scientists studying Darwin’s finches. You will observe Nazca boobies, red-billed tropicbirds, and blue-footed boobies nesting atDaphne Major terraces, which is also the site of a 40-year study on the evolution in Darwin’s finches, demonstrating evolution occurring over short periods of time.We return to the ship for a refreshing juice and to pack up the last of your belongings aswe set sail to Baltra Island, bidding farewell to our crew and beautiful home for the pastweek. You will be escorted to the airport for your flight back to the mainland and onwardjourney home.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.Sold out - 15Nov 20248D / 7N
Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island (East Galapagos) 7N
0 divesfrom $10,500Overview
8 days / 7 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
15 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
Return
22 Nov 2024
08:00 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
Day 1: Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to Aqua Mare. After lunch, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches, and small ground finches. For those who prefer to snorkel, you will likely encounter sea turtles at the beach. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.Day 2: This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahia Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkelling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco where you’ll be able to view fur seals. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After lunch and a lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available. Enjoy a tasty lunch as the boat sails to Santa Cruz for an afternoon excursion to Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill. Back onboard, enjoying the best of the region’s flavours through seafood specialties.Day 5: This morning you will explore a giant tortoise reserve to see these interesting creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and possibly Galapagos rails.After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands. There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. For divers, there is the option of a full day of diving instead of joining the day’s excursions.Day 6: This morning’s excursion is to Punta Suárez, one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island for your penultimate day. Here we will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to take advantage of the last full day in the Galapagos Islands by snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at Plaza Sur Island and head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide. Back on board, toast farewell under the amazing starlit skies of the archipelago over a glass of wine.Day 8: You begin your last day with a luxurious breakfast before bidding farewell to the Aqua Mare crew. Your last visit before leaving paradise is a final short excursion to drive up the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to the twin craters of Los Gemelos enroute to the airport. It is a remarkable location surrounded by lush vegetation. Memories of this last adventure will accompany you as you are escorted to Baltra Island for the departing flight back to the mainland and onward journey home.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.Limited availability - 29Nov 20248D / 7N
Baltra Island - Santa Cruz Island (East Galapagos) 7N
0 divesfrom $10,500Overview
8 days / 7 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
29 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
Return
06 Dec 2024
08:00 AM
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz: SZN
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
Day 1: Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to Aqua Mare. After lunch, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches, and small ground finches. For those who prefer to snorkel, you will likely encounter sea turtles at the beach. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.Day 2: This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahia Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkelling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco where you’ll be able to view fur seals. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After lunch and a lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available. Enjoy a tasty lunch as the boat sails to Santa Cruz for an afternoon excursion to Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill. Back onboard, enjoying the best of the region’s flavours through seafood specialties.Day 5: This morning you will explore a giant tortoise reserve to see these interesting creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and possibly Galapagos rails.After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands. There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. For divers, there is the option of a full day of diving instead of joining the day’s excursions.Day 6: This morning’s excursion is to Punta Suárez, one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island for your penultimate day. Here we will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to take advantage of the last full day in the Galapagos Islands by snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at Plaza Sur Island and head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide. Back on board, toast farewell under the amazing starlit skies of the archipelago over a glass of wine.Day 8: You begin your last day with a luxurious breakfast before bidding farewell to the Aqua Mare crew. Your last visit before leaving paradise is a final short excursion to drive up the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to the twin craters of Los Gemelos enroute to the airport. It is a remarkable location surrounded by lush vegetation. Memories of this last adventure will accompany you as you are escorted to Baltra Island for the departing flight back to the mainland and onward journey home.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.4 spaces left - 29Nov 202415D / 14N
Baltra Island - Baltra Island (East and West Galapagos) 14N
0 divesfrom $19,950Overview
15 days / 14 nights0No experience requiredTravel insurance requiredTransfer details
Departure
29 Nov 2024
11:30 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
Return
13 Dec 2024
08:00 AM
Baltra
Baltra Airport: GPS
What's included
- Meals and snacks
- Water, tea and coffee
- Beer and wine with dinner
- Snorkeling gear
- Towels and toiletries
- Transfers
- Land excursions
- National park fee
- Kayaks or SUPS
- Internet
- Laundry service
What's not included
- Travel and health insurance
To be paid in advance or onboardOptional Extras
- Single supplement - 75%
- Alcoholic drinks
- Gratuities
- Private guide
- Private transfers
- Domestic flights
To be booked in advance or paid onboardHighlights
- Witness the unparalleled biodiversity that inspired Charles Darwin
- Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
- See endemic penguins, fur seals, marine iguanas and giant tortoises
- Hike the highlands of Santa Cruz to a Galapagos tortoise sanctuary
- Gaze out over Bartolomé Island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock
- Dive with up to 30 different species of shark during one incredible trip!
- Large marine life including manta rays, dolphins and sea lions
- Indulge in delectable cuisine and five-star service
- Visit a flamingo lagoon, Post Office Bay, Baroness Lookout, and more
Once you arrive at Baltra airport, you will be met by our team and escorted on a short cross island transfer to Aqua Mare. After lunch, pick out a snorkelling kit and wetsuit for your personal use during the week. You will also receive a special waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle as a welcome gift.The afternoon will see you head out for your first excursion to the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero on the northern part of Santa Cruz. You might be able to spot Darwin’s finches, cactus finches, and small ground finches. For those who prefer to snorkel, you will likely encounter sea turtles at the beach. Afterwards, head back to the yacht and indulge in a sumptuous dinner.Day 2: This morning, you’ll wake up on the other side of the equator and head over to Bahia Darwin’s coralline beach for hiking and snorkelling. Following a sumptuous lunch, explore Genovesa Island with a tender ride along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco where you’ll be able to view fur seals. A 1.5 km hike inland will then take us to the lava fields to view red-footed boobies as well as great frigatebirds and Galapagos storm petrels.Day 3: Our first excursion of the day will take us to Santiago Island with a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan to discover recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available.After lunch and a lecture from one of our expert naturalist guides, we leave for Sombrero Chino Island, so named after the small crater that forms the islet. In the surrounding crystal-clear waters, you might have the opportunity to observe sea lions and penguins from above. There will be time for snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience.Day 4: With an early morning anchor at Bartolomé Island, you will embark upon a mild climb up to the summit of a spatter cone for a spectacular view of the island’s iconic Pinnacle Rock. Cool down afterwards with a snorkel where you may encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before heading back to the yacht. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous diving option is also available. Enjoy a tasty lunch as the boat sails to Santa Cruz for an afternoon excursion to Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill. Back onboard, enjoying the best of the region’s flavours through seafood specialties.Day 5: This morning you will explore a giant tortoise reserve to see these interesting creatures up close in their natural habitat. The area is also a great place to observe Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and possibly Galapagos rails.After a delicious lunch, you will visit Darwin Station and National Park headquarters to observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, as well as the different age hatchlings categorised by islands. There will be free time to enjoy the town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. For divers, there is the option of a full day of diving instead of joining the day’s excursions.Day 6: This morning’s excursion is to Punta Suárez, one of the most interesting landing sites in Galapagos Islands, due to the high percentage of unique endemism in its fauna. In the afternoon, we will take a tender ride to the beautiful array of islets where you will be able to snorkel alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, and rays. The last visit of the day will be Bahía Gardner, an outstanding coralline sand beach that boasts one of the biggest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos.Day 7: After a night of sailing, you will visit Santa Fé Island where you will spot land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. After the visit, we will be able to go snorkelling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. A morning rendezvous diving option is also available.As you enjoy lunch onboard, the boat will sail to Plaza Sur Island, located off the eastern shore of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon you disembark at Plaza Sur Island and head out on a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide.Day 8: Build your own adventure today from a selection of activities such as a morning run to Academy Bay for a beach morning, an introductory scuba dive with a local certified dive operator, hike to the Las Grietas fissure canyon for a cool snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, or even choose to bicycle around and outside of Puerto Ayora town.You will be able to meet new companions joining you onward for the next seven nights over another delicious lunch aboard. As they explore the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center in the afternoon, yours is free to spend at your leisure - just let our Cruise Director know and all the arrangements will be made. If you prefer to slow down the pace, our tenders can take you out for a short snorkelling excursion, or stay onboard Aqua Mare to sunbathe on our upper deck sun loungers. Regroup at the end of the day over dinner where our chefs will presentyou with a dazzling array of native ingredients.Day 9: This morning we will be anchored in the southern part of the Archipelago at Floreana Island. After breakfast, the morning’s wet landing excursion will take you to a big brackish water lagoon to observe greater flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts, and other shore birds at Punta Cormorant. You will be able to observe where sea turtles nest at night, and spot stingrays and sharks swimming very close to the shore. For those wishing to dive, a morning rendezvous diving option is available.After lunch on board, head back out to Floreana to pay tribute to an old island tradition at Bahia Post Office. The visit will follow another quick tour of what once was a fishing enterprise in the 1920s before continuing onboard the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa.Day 10: After a night of sailing, we will arrive on the western side of Isabela Island. For the morning excursion, a hike at Punta Moreno takes us among mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks. You will also embark on a dinghy ride to observe marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins among other species.In the afternoon, the Aqua Mare will sail north to Bahía Urbina, where you can see land iguanas, some of the biggest marine iguanas roaming free in the Archipelago, and on occasion, tortoises as well. We’ll end the day with an unforgettable view of Isabela’s five volcanoes.Day 11: Our next anchorage is Punta Espinoza. The region is famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and lizards. We might come across Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, and snakes as well. You will spend the morning on shore with the option to snorkel before returning to the yacht for lunch.Crossing the Bolivar Channel back towards Isabela Island, you will visit Caleta Tagus - once a favourite anchorage spot for pirates and whalers. Here we will hike to see Darwin Lake, a saltwater lake trapped inside a tuff cone. If you would rather not hike, you can go kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, or take a ride on our elegant black tenders.Day 12: This morning, we’ll take a tender ride to Caleta Bucanero, a 17th century pirate rest stop where pirates used to stock up on fresh tortoise meat and fresh water. In case ocean conditions are unfavourable, we’ll visit Playa Espumilla instead, a golden sandy beach which is a well-known breeding ground for sea turtles.We head back to the yacht for lunch, before exploring the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas, northwest of Santiago Island. You will be able to walk the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or snorkel to watch sea turtles, sea lions, and whitetip reef sharks.Day 13: Depart by tender to Rábida Island, also known as the red island. You will be able to hike, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or snorkel, as well as observe hundreds of sea lions who have made their home on the beach. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available.After a delicious lunch, listen to an afternoon lecture presented by our expert guides. The Aqua Mare will sail towards the north of Santa Cruz Island, to Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary that is home to sea turtles. This is a tender ride excursion as there is no landing site, but you will be able to spot green sea turtles, as well as blacktip and Galapagos sharks.Day 14: Your penultimate day in the Archipelago begins with refreshing breakfast before heading out to Seymour Norte Island - known for its healthy population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigate birds. Alternatively, a morning rendezvous dive is also available. After a morning full of fun activities, you will head back to the yacht for a delicious lunch aboard Aqua Mare.For the afternoon excursion, hop on to one of our tenders for a wet landing onto Mosquera Island - one of the hotspots for spotting sea lions. Around sunset you will return to the sleek comfort of Aqua Mare for your last evening aboard.Day 15: Enjoy the views from Aqua Mare as we circumnavigate Daphne Island before making our way to Baltra Island for disembarkation. You will be escorted to the airport for your flight back to the mainland.Sample itineraries are for guidance only. Actual itineraries may differ slightly due to factors such as weather, wildlife, logistics and local regulations.Payment & cancellation terms
- 121 days or more prior to departure: The deposit will be refunded, less a US $500 service charge per person.
- 120 to 91 days prior to departure: All deposits are non-refundable.
- 90 days or less prior to departure: Full payment will be applied as the cancelation penalty.
Payment policyUSD1000 deposit - required to secure reservation.
Balance - due 90 days prior to departure.
Bookings received less than 90 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.Cancellation policySpecial offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.Sold out
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Cabins
Cat V - Upper deck
Queen size bed2 peopleNon shareableCat IV - Lower deck
Twin or double bed2 peopleShareableCat III - Lower deck
Queen size bed2 peopleNon shareableCat II - Above deck
Queen size bed2 peopleNon shareableOwner's suite
King size bed2 peopleNon shareable
- If you are a solo traveller, we aim to allocate shared cabins on a same-sex basis.
- Non-shareable cabins can not be shared with another single traveler outside your party. A single occupancy surcharge will be applied.