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Quasar Grace Yacht

Embark on a royal adventure in Galapagos aboard Princess Grace Kelly’s honeymoon yacht

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Adventurer, meet Grace: the classiest yacht in the Galapagos Islands, meticulously restored to offer the bucket-list wildlife safari you’re seeking.

A gift to Grace Kelly for her honeymoon, the award-winning Grace Yacht has undergone a complete renovation, bringing a refined yet adventurous spirit to every voyage. With features ideally suited to Galapagos, the 16-Guest Grace is the ultimate home away from home for discerning travelers like you. From couples to families to honeymooners and private charters, the agile yacht provides an insider view of Darwin’s enchanting islands and incredible wildlife.

Step aboard the new Grace for the journey of a lifetime, and discover the beauty, wonder, and elegance that has made her a favorite of travelers for decades.

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Indulge in the glamor of Princess Grace Kelly and experience the Galapagos like never before. On a yacht crafted by the legendary Camper & Nicholsons, you’re sure to sail in style. Will you be the envy of other passengers in the famous Grace Kelly Suite?

Capacity: 16 Guests Crew Capacity: 11 Guest to Guide Ratio: 8 to 1 Number of Staterooms & Suites: 9 Cruise Director: 1 Length: 44 (145 ft) Beam: 7m (22.1 ft) Last Renovation: 2023 View Deck Plan    |    View Suites & Stateroom Sizes

Meet Grace, the timeless beauty that has captured the hearts of travelers since the 1950s. Grace is the epitome of youth and glamor, having lived a gallant life that includes serving as a submarine chaser during World War II and sophisticated host to Aristotle Onassis, John Issa, and Sir Winston Churchill.

Don't be fooled by her age—the completely renovated Grace is as young and chic as the princess who honeymooned aboard. Her elegance and refinement are unmatched, and her parties are legendary. Come experience the magic for yourself, as Grace takes you on a journey through the wonders of the Galapagos.

Once known as Monica and later as Rion, the M/Y Grace has a fascinating history. Commissioned by Argentinean Santiago Soulas, she originally weighed 298 tons and was 147 feet long with a 23-foot beam and a 12-foot draft.

Once enjoyed by Sir George Tilley in the late 1930s, she was conscripted by the British for the war effort in 1939. Stripped of her furnishings and paneling, she was used by the Royal Navy for coastal patrols during the War Years.

Grace played an important role during WWII as she patrolled the calm waters off the Isle of Wight. Later, she was dispatched to the beaches of Dunkirk for the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force during Operation Dynamo.

In a daring night operation, Rion and two other ships captured a German E-boat off the Isle of Wight. After engaging in a firefight, Rion delivered the final blow, securing the enemy vessel and escorting it to Portsmouth Harbour naval base.

Her heroics continued as she hunted a submarine on the night of March 23, 1941, making multiple depth charge runs. Refitted as a floating annex to the Royal Navy Hospital, she served until the end of the war, earning a new name, HMS Noir.

After being decommissioned in 1945, she was restored to her luxurious beginnings by her original builders, Camper & Nicholsons. She was then returned to Sir George Tilley on September 16, 1947, remaining with him until his death in 1951.

HMS Noir became the glamorous Arion under Aristotle Onassis' charter firm, hosting a stream of A-list celebrities and even welcoming Sir Winston Churchill aboard during her three-year reign as the queen of the seas.

Aristotle Onassis gave a royal gift to Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly: the luxurious yacht Arion. The prince spent weeks refurbishing the vessel, which would later welcome the Hollywood star to her new home in Monaco.

After the wedding, the royal couple began their honeymoon with a short stay in Mallorca, Spain, followed by a cruise aboard the yacht—which they christened Deo Juvente II—along the coasts of Corsica and Sardinia.

After being gifted to Monaco's royal couple, the yacht changed hands and was renamed Daska before becoming a popular charter in the Bahamas under Crest Shipping in the 1960s. She’s no stranger to crystalline waters.

Newly-named Angela continued her journey under the ownership of Valef Yachts in the Caribbean. After a heroic evacuation effort in the Lebanese Civil War and a stunning refurbishment, she remained a beloved luxury charter until 1982.

With a new identity as the M/Y Zein, named after one of John Issa’s daughters, she cruised along the East Coast. Zein remained a sought-after vessel, catching the attention of buyers such as Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft.

The M/Y Zein became the M/Y Grace in 2007, as Quasar Expeditions took her back to her most elegant times. With a complete refit and recent renovation, she continues to make headlines as the most elegant ship to cruise the Galapagos Islands.

From US$ 9,950 per person

Light or Moderate Activity Level Baltra Island, Galapagos Islands

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Light or Moderate Activity Level Baltra Island / Puerto Ayora Port, Galapagos Islands

From US$ 18,905 per person

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You’ll be happy to hear that you can’t go wrong.

Our Grace yacht itinerary options are not better or worse–they are simply different. Each guarantees authentic experiences and lifetime memories.

What is the right length of time for a yacht safari? One of the biggest mistakes travelers make when visiting the Galapagos is simply not leaving enough time to experience the islands to the fullest. We’ve crafted a just-right 8 day/7 night and 14 day/15 night itinerary options to maximize your time for exploration, breathtaking wildlife encounters, and optimal relaxation.

8 Days / 7 Nights Itineraries Over the course of 30+ years of Galapagos experience, Quasar has crafted two 7 night/ 8 day itineraries of equal quality in terms of site visitations, expedition activities, scenery, and wildlife encounters. Join us for a week of discovery through the lens of Darwin.

15 Days / 14 Nights Itinerary For those time-privileged travelers seeking deeper Galapagos immersion, we offer a 14 day/15 night itinerary. This expedition covers the entire archipelago, ensuring no experience is left a mystery. Guests enjoy a higher chance of encountering the rare species that inspired Darwin’s brilliant works.

In 2012, Galapagos National Park began requiring all cruise organizations to wait two weeks before visiting the same landing site. This regulation was introduced to disperse boats more evenly and lighten the environmental load for the Park’s 80+ visitor sites, and resulted in 2-3 cruise itineraries for every ship in Galapagos.

One of our Galapagos experts will happily offer itinerary guidance and answer questions about the journeys we offer.

• Walks & Hikes (WH) =
• Snorkeling (SN) =
• Kayaking (KY) =
• Panga Ride (PR) =

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Hear What Past Guests Are Saying About The Grace Yacht

Grace has been specially crafted to maximize wildlife encounters, with itineraries that ensure you experience the very best of the Galapagos. Enjoy playful sea lions, blue footed boobies, and majestic giant tortoises—every day is a new adventure.

Unforgettable meals are included in your authentic Galapagos experiences. Three meals a day are carefully prepared by master chefs who cater to every craving and dietary need. Plus, appetizers and snacks to rival your 5 o’clock favorites.

Our wine selection? A cut above. Reminisce about your adventurous days and take in the sunset from the yacht lounge. Mingle with other like-minded travelers for an even more memorable adventure—don’t be surprised if they become friends for life.

Quasar partners with chefs and service aficionados who are not only celebrated in the food industry, but who celebrate food itself. Taste their culinary passion and years of worldly experience in the subtle details of every memorable meal.

Local culture is the soul of our menus and culinary experiences. Our chefs collaborate with Ecuadorian producers and farmers to deliver unparalleled, nourishing meals. From coffee beans to saffron and honey, we seek out the best of Galapagos and beyond.

Real People. Insider Knowledge.

• ENGLISH & SPANISH SPEAKING
• FRIENDLY TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
• COMPLIMENTARY PLANNING CALLS AROUND YOUR SCHEDULE

Our Galapagos Expedition Designers have been in your shoes before. They know what it takes to plan the perfect Galapagos cruise. With a complimentary call, we'll answer your every question, suggest or arrange trip add-ons, and recommend the best bucket-list itinerary. Don’t sweat the details—that’s our job.

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Get in touch for a complimentary consultation

• Book a Call or Fill Out a Short Form
• We will book you in for a complimentary consultation
• This consultation can be as short or as long as needed
• We are available Monday - Friday from 9AM - 8PM EST

Work with a specialist to plan your perfect trip

• During your consultation will go through any questions you have
• We will discuss our Galapagos Itineraries in detail
• We will guide past common mistakes made by most travelers

Enjoy the trip of a lifetime

• Our dedicated team will be with you every step of the way
• We will make sure all your special requirements are taken care of
• You'll return home having experienced the most fulfilling adventure of your life

Quasar As Seen On:

Explore Top Cruise Suites - Grace Kelly Suite

Condé Nast Traveler: Best Expedition Cruise Line 2023

Travel+Leisure: The World's Best Awards 2023

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EXPLORE TRIP EXTENSIONS

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Availability for the departure dates shown below can change daily and even hourly. Please contact us for up to date availability, or to place a courtesy hold on your space. Click this link for ways to contact us .

Note on Dates: Grace’s 15 Day Darwin’s Muse itinerary is a back to back combination of the two 8 Day itineraries above. It can begin on any of the dates above and will run for two weeks, from Tuesday to Tuesday.

Availability aboard Grace yacht changes moment to moment. For the latest pricing and availability we invite you to call us, fill out a contact form or start a live chat session.

Because of her limited number of cabins and her high demand, we are happy to place a courtesy hold on available cabins for you as you gather additional information and sort out the details.

Quasar's 2024 Grace Cruise Rates include Galapagos National Park Fees, Transit Control Cards, Open Bar (excluding Premium brands), and Wi-Fi . Rates are per person in USD for 8 or 15-day cruises, valid from January 1 through December 31, 2024.

Quasar's 2025 Grace Cruise Rates include Galapagos National Park Fees, Transit Control Cards, Open Bar (excluding Premium brands), and Wi-Fi . Rates are per person in USD for 8 or 15-day cruises, valid from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

A complimentary Wi-Fi package is available for all Quasar Guests who travel aboard Grace Yacht.

This complimentary package limits the use of Wi-Fi & Internet Service to specific areas of the yacht and under a fixed schedule each day. There are also plans available for purchase that make Wi-Fi available 24 hours a day and offer higher download and upload speeds. Please inquire with our Galapagos Expedition Designers for details.

Important Notes : Internet connectivity in the Galapagos maybe intermittent at times during our itineraries mainly due to satellite coverage and climate issues, which affect all Galapagos vessels. Continuous connectivity to communication applications such as Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp, Google Meetings or others are affected by satellite coverage, climate, and network saturation.

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Celebrate the Galapagos Islands’ ecological paradise while also pampering yourself as you experience the small-ship exclusivity of a Grace cruise, a yacht nothing short of radiant and remarkable, just like Grace Kelly herself, the American actress and Princess of Monaco after whom the ship is named after and inextricably linked. This historic, 145-foot luxury yacht steeped in tales of love and war, invitingly welcomes up to 16 guests in 9 impressively-sized staterooms and numerous well-appointed social spaces to explore Galapagos’ enchanted isles on immersive 8-day itineraries which can be combined to created an epic 15-day itinerary.

Life Aboard The Grace Cruise

Recently renovated by renowned South American design firm, her capacity was thoughtfully reduced from 20 t0 16 to provide a more balanced distribution of larger staterooms and social areas to give a more spacious feel, and also means her guest-to-guide ratio is an incredible 10:1 maximum, but often less! As part of the remodel, her now 9 staterooms and bathrooms have been designed to match practicality with the contemporary decor now found throughout the ship, and feature modern adjustable lighting allowing you to set the mood, as well as USB ports for your gadgets.

Elsewhere, the revamp enhances the guest experience even further, with tasteful, contemporary decor creates a refined look that sets the tone for your time aboard, elevated bar and lounge areas fitted with tailored furniture for extra comfort, a new coffee lounge where guests can enjoy the finest Ecuadorian coffee experience, a brand new onboard boutique for travel essentials and souvenirs, and a newly equipped kitchen for an improved culinary journey on board.

Grace elegantly mixes the timeless style of her former celebrity owner with all the modern amenities you could desire. An outdoor bar, Jacuzzi, alfresco lounge and dining areas provide ample seating and inviting settings to settle in, relax and enjoy moments of wildlife spotting, whilst her indoor bar and lounge area perfect for getting out of the sun, watching a film on the large television, and chatting with your fellow travelers. For a quiet moment or a romantic interlude, escape to the private resting area at the stern of the ship, which is home to the Grace’s original wheel dating from 1927. Sun worshipers and stargazers alike will feel at home on the uppermost deck, which is open to the sky.

You will enjoy the locally-sourced, and thoughtfully prepared cuisine served aboard the ship. Lunch and dinner are both served as indoor buffets. Dinner takes things up a notch and features local Ecuadorian flavors and international cuisine, all perfectly accompanied with a glass of wine from the onboard climatized cellar.

Excursions From Your Grace Galapagos Cruise

The Grace offers two eight-day cruises, each designed to maximize wildlife encounters on various islands. Intrepid travelers with more time to spend in the islands may choose the 15-day Darwin’s Muse itinerary, which combines both of the shorter plans. During the Following Darwin’s Trail cruise, you will spend your days exploring some of the same islands the scientist traveled through on his famed voyage, accompanied by expert naturalist guides eager to impart their 15+ years of experience.

Look for fur seals and sea birds on Buccaneer’s Cove’s rugged shore on Santiago Island and visit the breeding center of the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. During the Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps cruise, you will discover islands the explorer was never privileged to see. You will be able to snorkel in Gardner Bay and Inlet on Espanola Island in hopes of seeing parrotfish, damselfish, and even the occasional white-tipped reef shark. On North Seymour Island, take a hike in search of marine and land iguanas and frigate birds. No matter which itinerary you choose, you will have opportunities to hike, snorkel, kayak, and take dingy rides.

A Ship Steeped In History

Though she has all the style and amenities of a modern ship, the Grace is what the French gracefully call “une femme d’un certain age.” This woman of a certain age started life in 1927 as a luxury yacht before she was conscripted in 1939 by the British Navy to join the war efforts.

The Grace, under another name, spent the early years of WWII patrolling along the Isle of Wight. In 1940, the ship was part of Operation Dynamo and made three runs between Dover and Dunkirk, rescuing roughly 900 British Expeditionary Forces from French beaches. On the return of the third trip, a bomb narrowly missed her starboard bow, killing 14 soldiers plus one sailor and leaving the ship sidelined for a short time.

The Grace finished WWII as a hospital ship before hosting Sir Winston Churchill for a post-war cruise. But, history wasn’t finished with this ship yet. In 1951, the vessel was acquired by Aristotle Onassis and given to Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco as a wedding present. After Grace Kelly arrived from America on the ship, the couple spent their honeymoon aboard the Grace, leisurely cruising along Corsica and Sardinia.

Not only will you sail on a royal yacht, but you will also be treated like royalty by ten crew members, plus a dedicated cruise director. Honeymooners, families of all ages, and anyone looking for an upscale way to cruise the Galapagos will delight in the combination of refined elegance and wildlife adventures the Grace provides.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

8 Day - Beyond Darwin's Footsteps

Embarkation

AM : You’ll need to rise early this morning to catch your flight to the Galapagos. All our flights to the Galapagos originate in Quito and stop briefly in the port city of Guayaquil to take on passengers before heading on to the islands. For this itinerary, you will be landing on the island of Baltra. After passing through Galapagos National Park inspection your National Park Guide will be there to greet you holding a sign with the name of your yacht on it and will accompany you on the short bus ride to the Itabaca channel. Once we cross the Itabaca Channel, we will visit Los Gemelos. The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins). These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and the verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and you can easily encounter rain even when the sun is shining half an hour away at the coast.

Los Gemelos is surrounded by a Scalesia forest. Scalesia is endemic to Galapagos and many endemic and native species call the forest home. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher. A highlight of any trip to the archipelago is a visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where the sparse, dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Our afternoon destination is the Wild Tortoise Reserve where we will have chances to track and view these friendly ancient creatures in their natural setting. This extends to the adjacent pasturelands, where farmers give tortoise safe quarter in exchange for allowing paying visitors to see them. We will then board your home while in Galapagos, the Grace Yacht.

PM : In the late afternoon, we can visit Puerto Ayora, home to both the Galapagos National Park Service Headquarters and Charles Darwin Research Station, the center of the great restorative efforts taking place in the park, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here we visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding & Rearing Program run by the research station, which began by rescuing the remaining 14 tortoises on the island of Española in 1970. This program has restored the population of animals there to over 1,000 today. You will see many of these animals, with their sweet ET necks and faces; from hatchlings to juveniles to large, distinguished individuals. This is where famed tortoise, Lonesome George, lived out his last days as the last of his particular race of tortoise.

We’ll enjoy our first Pacific sunset aboard the Grace yacht by celebrating happy hour atop her sky lounge where drinks are available daily along with hors d’oeuvres. A little later we gather in the main salon for a presentation by our guide on the next day’s activates and visitor sites, before sitting down to dinner. We spend a bit more time in port this evening before setting sail for the island of Floreana.

Peace Asylum, Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

AM : Floreana has had a colorful history: Pirates, whalers, convicts and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a self proclaimed Baroness among them—who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in death and mystery. Today roughly a hundred Ecuadorians inhabit the island. In 1793 British whalers set up a barrel as the island’s post office, to send letters home on passing ships. The tradition continues to this day, simply by dropping a post card into the barrel without a stamp. The catch is you must take a post card from the barrel and see that it gets to the right place. That is how the system began and continues to this day. Some claim it works better than the 

official Ecuadorian post office. You’ll have a chance to continue the traditions by sending your own card and picking up others.

Continuing a bit farther inland at Post Office Bay you will have the opportunity to enter the underworld of Floreana in the form of a lava tube. The lava tube descends fairly deep into the earth back toward the ocean, where you can swim in a subterranean grotto beneath the tide. Bring a good waterproof flashlight. Snorkeling in Post Office Bay offers choice encounters with waiting sea turtles and tropical fish. 

We return to the Grace for lunch and a siesta. Our next landing is further along the shore to the northeast. On route we pass within view of Baroness Point in an area of mangrove lined lagoons. Eloise Wehrborn de WagnerBosquet, the self proclaimed Baroness (of Floreana) frequented this overlook, but we will leave the rest of her intriguing story to your Galapagos guide

PM : Punta Cormorant offers two highly contrasting beaches; the strand where we land is composed of volcanic olivine crystals, giving it a greenish tint that glitters in the sun. From here you’ll notice the small cinder cone that forms the point. Our landing is just to the west of the cinder cone where a trail crosses the neck of an isthmus to a beach of very fine white sand known as Flour Beach. Flour Beach was formed by the erosion of coral skeletons. Between the two beaches, in a basin formed by the surrounding volcanic cones, is a ypersaline lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. We stop at the lagoon and then continue on the trail to Four Beach. Be careful not to wade into the tide with bare feet! If you stand at the edge of the water and look into the tidal area you will soon notice that the silty surf is rife with rays. Sea turtles also surf the waves off the beach. We return to our yacht and set out to our snorkeling destination as we don wetsuits while making our way around Punta Cormorant. Not far from the north shore of Floreana is the tiny islet known as Champion. Champion is considered one of the top snorkeling sites the Galapagos offering prime underwater sea lion interactions. Dolphins are frequently seen near the shore along with humpback whales who like the bay off Flour Beach. As you swim with the sea lions you will be surrounded by an assortment of tropical fish including yellowtail grunts, amberjacks and schools of king angel. You may spot sleepy white-tipped reef sharks hugging the bottom. Sea turtles glide by, while torpedo-like Galapagos penguins can also be encountered in the waters off Champion.

Alternatively we may snorkel at Devil’s Crown which is located some 250 meters (700 ft) north of Punta Cormorant. The crown is an old submerged volcanic cone that has been worn down by waves. Devil’s Crown is home to a myriad of marine species including several species of corals, sea urchins, and many other creatures including a great number of fish species, making this place one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos. The eroded crater walls form a popular roosting site for seabirds including boobies and pelicans. The 

snorkeling begins outside the crater to the southeast, where a swift current will take you for a ride along the north side of the crown and right into the middle. Relax, enjoy the ride and let the current do the work. After the ride keep your eyes open for spotted eagle rays and golden rays that like to swim near the crown. Once back aboard the Grace you’ll want to soak in the warm Jacuzzi after peeling off your wetsuit and then retire for hors d’ouevres and drinks to enjoy the sunset.

Punta Suarez, Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet

AM : The quantity and variety of wildlife at Punta Suarez is remarkable. Sea lions surf the waves beyond the breakwater landing, and tiny pups are known to greet your toes upon arrival. A few steps inland is a colorful variety of marine iguana in the Galapagos. They bear distinctive red and black markings, some with a flash of turquoise running down their spine. They nap in communal piles or cling to the rocks for warmth. The trail then takes us beside the western edge of the island where masked boobies (also known as Nazca boobies) nest along the cliff’s edge. The trail descends to a rocky beach before rising to an open area where you may see a large gathering of nesting blue-foot boobies. Galapagos doves, cactus finch, and mocking birds forage nearby, unconcerned by human presence. Both lava and swallow-tailed gulls, with their red-ringed eyes, sit atop the cliffs in company with marine iguanas.

The trail continues to the high cliff edge of the southern shore; below, a shelf of black lava reaches out into the surf where a blowhole shoots a periodic geyser of saltwater into the air. Further east along the cliff is the Albatross Airport where waved albatross line up to launch their great winged bodies from the cliffs, soaring out over the dramatic shoreline of crashing waves and driven spray. These are the largest birds you will see in the Galapagos with wingspans up to 2.25 m or 7.4 ft. They are the only species of albatross exclusive to the tropics. In the trees set back from the cliff is one of only two places in the world where the waved albatross nests. The 12,000 pairs that inhabit Hood Island comprise all but a tiny fraction of the world’s population of this species. Lucky visitors can watch courtship ‘fencing’ done with great yellow beaks. Large, fluffy, perfectly camouflaged chicks adorn nests on the ground nearby. The Albatross lay their eggs from April through June though they can be seen fencing long after that. Eggs take two months to hatch. Hungry chicks can eat up to 2 kg (4.4 lb) a day which keeps their parents busy. By December the chicks are fully grown and ready to set out on their own in January. Pairs mate for life.

PM : On the northeastern shore of Hood, Gardner Bay offers a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals. You will be lured from the powdery white sand into the turquoise water for a swim, but just a little further off-shore the snorkeling by Gardner Island offers peak encounters with playful young sea lions and schools of surprisingly large tropical fish, including yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump- head parrotfish. The young sea lions like to snack and play along Gardner Island’s sea cliff. They dart up from the depths, playfully show off their skills, and then disappear. Sleepy white-tipped reef sharks can also be seen napping on the bottom. Gardner Bay and Islet also offer inviting waters for those interested in kayaking. For all who visit here, Española is a highlight of the Galapagos.

Punta Pitt, Lobos Island & Kicker Rock

AM : Punta Pitt is located at the east end of San Cristóbal Island. The trail includes an olivine beach approximately 90 meters and a trail that ascends to the top of a volcanic tuff hill passing through several natural viewpoints. Punta Pitt is composed of a volcanic tuff substrate. This is the only site in the Galapagos Islands, where you can watch the three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting in the same area. This is due to its geographic location, an abundance of food so there is hardly any competition between them. The blue-footed boobies nest in the interior of Punta Pitt, red-footed boobies nest on bushes, and masked boobies nest in the cliffs. Sealions can also be found in the area. San Cristobal was the first island Darwin visited when he arrived in 1835. He reported encountering a pair of giant tortoises feeding on cactus during that outing.

PM : To the southeast of Kicker Rock lies Isla Lobos. The tiny island is separated from much larger San Cristobal by a narrow channel and little bay. This basalt island outcropping lives up to its name of Sea Lion Island and is home to a noisy population of frolicking and barking beasts. It is also a nesting place for blue-footed boobies and an excellent spot for snorkeling with sea lions. After walking the trail for some baby sea lion and booby watching amidst the sands beneath the salt bushes we have a real treat in store. We change into our snorkeling gear for some swimming with sea lions! The sea lions like to dart past and then swim up to you to blow bubbles at your mask. On occasion, they have been known to leap over, and then dive in front of unsuspecting snorkelers. Following our snorkeling outing, you will discover that the best place to warm up from your dip is in Grace’s Jacuzzi.

Heading up the coast from Isla Lobos we will have a chance to visit Leon Dormido, also known as Kicker Rock, a spectacular formation that rises 152 meters (500 feet) out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion, hence its Spanish name. From another angle one can see that the rock is split forming a colossal tablet and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching. We will circumnavigate the rock formation which is an ancient and eroded volcanic lava tuff cone in search of birds, and possibly, hammerhead sharks.

Santa Fe Island & South Plaza

AM : Santa Fe offers one of the more beautiful and sheltered coves on the islands. Its turquoise lagoon is protected by a peninsula of tiny islets forming an ideal anchorage. The island lies southeast of Santa Cruz Island within sight of Puerto Ayora. Geologically it is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago and for many years was thought to be a product of an uplift event. Through satellite imagery, it has been possible to determine the island’s volcanic origins.

A wet landing on a sandy white beach brings us into contact with one of many sea lion colonies. Bulls contend for the right of being beach master, while smaller males mask as females to make stealthy mating moves. Galapagos hawks are sometimes easily approached, perched atop salt bushes. An ascending trail leads toward the cliffs, where a dense thicket stands to the inland side of the island. The cliffside provides an expansive view of the ocean. You will be struck by the forest of giant prickly pear cactus found here that live up to their name, with tree-sized trunks! These are the largest of their kind in the Galapagos. At the top of the trail, our goal is to spot one of the large species of land iguana endemic to Santa Fe. Beige to chocolate brown with dragon-like spines, these big iguanas truly resemble dinosaurs. An indigenous species of rice rat also inhabits the thicket, and lucky hikers may spot harmless Galapagos snakes. After the hike, there is nothing more inviting than snorkeling in the calm waters of the bay where sea lions play, sea turtles swim, and tropical fish hide amidst the islets that form the natural reef. Santa Fe offers a more advanced kayaking route along its northern shore that ends at sea caves and is subject to conditions.

PM : South Plaza Island lies just a few hundred meters off the east coast of Santa Cruz Island. South Plaza is one of the smallest yet richest islands in the archipelago. Just over 400 feet wide, it was formed by lava upwelling from the bottom of the ocean. Our landing is in the channel between North and South Plaza, where the island tilts toward the water. South Plaza is known for its lush and diverse flora. A grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cacti, a ground cover of red sesuvium, the turquoise waters of the channel, and fiery sally lightfoot crabs combine to create a colorful palate of an island to explore. One of the big attractions here is the friendly yellow land iguanas waiting for lunch to drop from a cactus in the form of a prickly pear. We follow a trail up the tilt of the island to cliffs that look out over the ocean. Swallow-tailed gulls with red-banded eyes nest atop the overlook where you may spot marine life such as manta rays. South Plaza has a very healthy population of sea lions including a colony of bachelors that sit atop the cliff. They unintentionally polish the surrounding rocks with the oil from their fur. We may see red-billed tropicbirds, Nazca, and blue-footed boobies catching rides on the wind currents.

North Seymour Island & Bartolome Island

AM : North Seymour Island was lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. Cliffs only a few meters high form much of the shoreline, where swallow-tailed gulls sit perched in ledges. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stands just above the landing, usually without leaves, waiting for the rain to bring them into bloom. This island is teeming with life! You might have to give way to a passing sea lion or marine iguana. Blue-footed boobies nest on either side of the trail where mating pairs perform their courtship dance. You are likely to see fluffy white chicks peeking out from beneath their protective mothers. The trail follows the eastern shore along the beach. You may be fortunate to witness flocks of brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies hunting schools of fish. The boobies, which look so comical on land, are ideally adapted as dive bombers and easily pierce the water, zeroing in on their targeted prey. Frigate birds with wingspans of up to 5 feet soar overhead and all around. They have named for the way that the trim of their wings in flight is reminiscent of the square-rigged sailing warship. Not coincidentally frigate birds are also called Man O’ War birds and they live up to that name in a literal way when they target boobies, pelicans, and other birds to steal their catch. Because the frigates are pelagic, they cannot take off from the water, so they do better at snatching fish from the surface or simply stealing them. They also target marine iguanas and young baby sea turtles. The trail turns east and inland to reveal the nesting stronghold of the frigates. Here you can see males with large, bright red, inflamed throat sacks known as gular pouches, all done to attract females. Your guide will point out the difference between the Magnificent, or Man O’ War frigates, and their Great frigate bird cousins. Large puff-ball frigate bird chicks inhabit nests, waiting for their parents to return with a meal. Even at this young age they possess long hooked beaks and act defiant when they feel threatened. You will also get a closer look at the feathers of the proud parents and notice their iridescent quality and deep green tinge.

Another inhabitant along the trail is the yellow land iguana. The species was originally introduced to the North Seymour in 1932 by Captain Alan Hancock and his crew from Baltra to rescue the creatures from the poor conditions left by goats and other feral animals. The iguanas colonized the island without a problem. The original colony disappeared from Baltra when it became a US military base in WWII. In 1980 Charles Darwin Station began a breeding program using some of the animals found on Seymour and successfully reintroduced their prodigy to both islands. Today the population on Seymour is roughly 600 and on Baltra 1,500.

Our snorkeling site at North Seymour also attracts scuba divers. You have a chance to see many types of rays here including marble rays, golden eagle rays, spotted eagle rays, stingrays, and even manta rays. Dormitories of white-tipped reef sharks sleep on the bottom while schools of king angelfish and yellow-tailed surgeonfish swarm the rocky shoreline passing the occasional parrot and damselfish. Some of the rocks are well-disguised scorpionfish. Large schools of tightly packed blue and gold snappers, grunts, and jacks are usually found plying these waters. Sea lions pay visits from both Seymour and nearby Mosquera Island as sea turtles and the occasional hammerhead shark can been seen down in the depths. Creole fish, the color of red salsa, hieroglyphic hawkfish, with neon-like etchings on their flanks, and burrfish.

PM : Bartolomé is famous for Pinnacle Rock, a towering spearheaded obelisk that rises from the ocean’s edge and is the best-known landmark in the Galapagos, which served as a backdrop in the film Master & Commander. Galapagos penguins the only species of penguin found north of the equator walk precariously along narrow volcanic ledges at their base. Sea lions snooze on rocky platforms, ready to slide into the water to play with passing snorkelers. Below the surface, shoals of tropical fish dodge in and out of the rocks past urchins, sea stars, and anemones. A perfectly crescent sandy beach lies just to the east of the pinnacle and across a narrow isthmus another beach mirrors this one to the south. Sea turtles use both beaches and another to the west of the Pinnacle as nesting sites and can sometimes be seen wading back out into the shallow water near the shore or resting in the sand recovering from the arduous task of digging nests, laying eggs, and covering them over.

Penguins like to rest atop the nearby rocks by our next landing site, about a quarter-mile east along the shore. Here the submerged walls of a tiny volcanic crater give the impression of a large fountain pool. This dry landing no wet feet! is the entrance to a 600-meter (2000-foot) pathway complete with stairs and boardwalks leading to Bartolome’s summit. The route is not difficult and presents an open textbook of the islands’ volcanic origins; a site left untouched after its last eruption, where small cones stand in various stages of erosion and lava tubes form bobsled-like runs down from the summit. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Santiago Island and Sullivan Bay to the west, and far below, Pinnacle Rock and our beach, where the crystal turquoise waters of the bay cradle your yacht. Our next landing site is a short distance away to the southeast. This evening will be especially relaxed and you can have a long lingering soak in the Jacuzzi. The Grace yacht can stay anchored where she is tonight as we are already within sight of our morning’s landing site across the channel just to the south. The view east toward the tiny twin table mountain islands of Daphne Major and Daphne Minor is particularly inviting with the sun setting behind them.

Chinese Hat Islet & Dragon Hill

AM : Tiny Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat) Island is named for the resemblance its shape has to a traditional Chinese Coolie’s hat. Today’s visitor site is off-limits to larger groups and day boats, making Sombrero Chino, along with Daphne Major, one of the least visited sites in the central islands. The island lies just off the southeastern tip of the large nearby island of Santiago; separated by a narrow channel that makes for very calm, protected waters. Our landing site is a tiny crescent-shaped cove with a sandy white beach cradled between black lava rocks and the crystal turquoise waters of the channel. A sea lion colony likes to rest on the warm white sands, while the rockier sections of the coast are alive with fiery colored sally lightfoot crabs. Marine iguanas sun themselves atop the rocks after foraging for algae in the channel. American oystercatchers stalk the tide pools stabbing at shellfish with their bright orange beaks. A quarter-mile (400 meters) trail sets off into the island’s volcanic interior to explore its rock formations, including excellent examples of pahoehoe lava resembling black rock ropes. The area is inhabited by ground-hugging red sesuvim plants and curious lava lizards.

Back at the cove, you will not only have another opportunity to snorkel with sea lions, but rockier sections of the coastline are inhabited by Galapagos penguins that dart past unsuspecting snorkelers. You’ll also have a chance to see the penguins during a panga ride. Galapagos penguins are the only species of penguin you’ll find living north of the nearby equator. Paddlers will have the opportunity to kayak here in the areas that are not off-limits (indicated by National Park Signs).

PM : In the early afternoon we set out to Dragon Hill. There be dragons in the Galapagos in the form of bright yellow land iguanas that inhabit the northeastern shore of Santa Cruz Island. The large spines on their backs make them look even more like their legendary cousins. All they lack are wings. In the 1900s their ancestors were once moved to nearby Venezia islet to protect them from the feral dogs that once roamed Santa Cruz. When the dogs were removed the colony was returned and today they thrive around the hill that is named in their honor, Cerro Dragon. The lava flows that reach out from the shore from Cerro Dragon form black reefs that make for excellent snorkeling at high tide. As we make our dry landing keep your eyes open for yellow warblers that stand out against the black lava. We head up the beach to a trail that takes us to a hypersaline lagoon. This is a seasonal haunt for pink flamingos. As we make our way from the coast toward the top of Dragon Hill you’ll notice the transition from intertidal vegetation like mangroves to dry zone vegetation including Palo Santo cactus and the silvery leafed Palo Santo trees. Keep your eyes open for the famous Darwin’s Finches. Also known as Galapagos finches, they were first collected by Charles Darwin and make a group of about 15 species that are found nowhere else. Ironically they are not related to true finches.

While we walk through the Scalesia forests that ring the hill, keep your eyes open for the dragons. Endemic cactus finch and woodpecker finch perch overhead. The loop trail heads inland and up the hill. The rough terrain makes this hike a bit challenging, but the view back toward the bay is rewarding. The real reward, of course, is the dragons hiding in the thicket which you are sure to spot. Back at the beach, you may be lucky enough to see one of Santa Cruz Island’s fearless Galapagos hawks perched atop the lava surveying the surroundings.

Disembarkation

AM : This last morning of our voyage through the Galapagos we visit Black Turtle Cove. Located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz, the cove is a living illustration of how mangroves alter the marine environment to create a rich and unique habitat. Four species of mangrove crowd from the shore out into the lagoon, which stretches almost a mile inland. As we drift through the quiet waters in our dinghy, we are likely to see spotted eagle rays and cow nosed or golden rays, which swim in a diamond formation. White-tipped reef sharks can be seen beneath the boat and Pacific green sea turtles come to the surface for air and to mate. Sea birds, including brown pelicans, blue herons and lava herons, come to feed in the cove which has also been declared a “Turtle Sanctuary”.

It’s time to begin your journey home as we set sail for nearby Baltra Island. During WWII the island was a US Air Force base and one can still see the remnants of the old foundations left behind from that era once ashore. It doesn’t take long for the Grace to navigate north along Baltra’s western shore to the island’s port. Don’t worry about your bags, your guide will instruct you on how to prepare your luggage and have it ready for pick up in your cabin. Our crew will see to transporting your luggage ashore where you will reunite with it at the airport. All you need to do is take along your carry-on luggage in the panga for the short crossing to shore. Once there a bus will pick us up for the 5-minute drive to the airport. Your guide will be there to make sure you are checked in on the proper flight. This is your last chance to purchase souvenirs in the Galapagos and the airport offers an assortment of shops where you can purchase everything from baseball caps and t-shirts to animal figurines, jewelry, and much more; all with a Galapagos theme. There is one final checkpoint before you enter the waiting area from which you will board your flight. Almost all flights to the mainland stop in Guayaquil and continue on to Quito so make sure you know where to get off the plane. We say farewell to the Galapagos as you begin your journey home, or on to other destinations like the Ecuadorian highlands, Amazon, or nearby Peru.

8 Day - Following Darwin's Trail

AM : You’ll need to rise early this morning to catch your flight to the Galapagos. All our flights to the Galapagos originate in Quito and stop briefly in the port city of Guayaquil to take on passengers before heading on to the islands. For this itinerary, you will be landing on the island of Baltra. After passing through Galapagos National Park inspection your National Park Guide will be there to greet you, holding a sign with the name of your yacht. Your guide will accompany you on the short bus ride to the waterfront. During WWII the island of Baltra was a US Air Force base and one can still see the remnants of the old foundations left behind from that era. We transfer via panga dinghy to the waiting Grace. The crew will see that your luggage is transferred to your cabin.

At the dock, we board a dinghy (panga) to make the short crossing to Grace. You only need to bring your carry-on luggage on the panga as our crew will transfer your luggage to your cabin. You’ll have time to settle into your new home for the week before assembling to review safety procedures and coming events with your Galapagos National Park Guide. While this is taking place the Grace will start her engines and set off into the archipelago.

PM : At the north end of Santa Cruz Island is Las Bachas, comprised of two sandy white-coral beaches that are are major egg-laying sites for sea turtles. The official story of how Las Bachas got its name comes from the Galapagos National Park. During WWII the US military discarded two barges on the beaches. When the first settlers to the area following the war arrived they mispronounced barges as bachas, resulting in the name. There are other explanations of how the location got its name having to do with indentations left in the sand by both eggs laying sea turtles and their departing hatchlings, but we will go with the Park’s.

We go ashore the white sandy beach and are greeted by patrolling blue-footed boobies. A brief walk inland takes us to a lagoon where pink flamingos are often found along with great blue herons, common stilts, brown noddies, white-cheek pintail ducks, and migratory birds. Snorkeling today is from the beach and you can also enjoy a swim in these waters, which are typically warmer than in other places in the Galapagos.

Prince Phillip’s Steps & Darwin Bay

AM : Our first landing is Prince Phillip’s Steps, named for a visit by the British Monarch in 1964. The dry landing begins at the base of this 25-meter (81-foot) stairway leading up to a narrow stretch of land that opens out onto a small plateau. This is a small peninsula that forms the southeastern section of the island. Red-footed boobies wrap their webbed feet around branches to precariously perch in the bushes where they nest. In contrast, their masked-booby cousins dot the surface of the scrublands beyond. Crossing through the sparse vegetation, you will come to a broad lava field that extends toward sea cliffs that form the island’s southern edge. The cavities and holes that have been eroded into the fragile lava are an ideal nesting ground for storm petrels. There are two species, the Galapagos petrel, which is active by day, and the wooden petrel, which feeds at night. The petrels flutter out over the ocean in swarms, then return to nest in the cracks and tunnels of the lava field but not without hazard. Short-eared owls lay in camouflaged wait here and make their living feeding off the returning petrels. After completing the two-hour hike we return to the vessel to change into our wetsuits for some snorkeling at one of the best sites on the islands.

By Phillip’s Steps, along the cliffs that form the protected southern bay of the Tower’s caldera, we enter the water into another world. The first thing you will notice when snorkeling here is very large tropical fish. These are warm water fish feeding off cold water nutrients. You’ll find the full assortment here including an oversize parrot, unicorn, angel, and hogfish along with schools of perch, surgeonfish, and various types of butterflyfish. Hiding in and around the rocky shoreline that drops off into the caldera you will also see a rainbow assortment of wrasse, basslet, anthias, and tang. This is the place to bring your underwater tropical fish identification chart. There are some special treats to be found here including occasional visits by fur sea lions. This area of the bay is also excellent for some kayaking in the calm waters close to the shore to observe nesting birds and you might like to go out for a spin after lunch, before our next landing across the bay to the north.

PM : Landing on the white coral sands of Darwin Bay and walking up the beach, you find yourself surrounded by the bustling activity of great frigate birds. Puffball chicks and their proud papas - who sport bulging scarlet throat-sacks - crowd the surrounding branches, while yellow-crowned herons and lava herons feed by the shore. Farther along you will discover a stunning series of sheltered pools set into a rocky outcrop. Watch your step for marine iguanas, lava lizards, and Galapagos doves that blend with the trail. The trail beside the pools leads up to a cliff overlooking the ocean filled caldera, where pairs of swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls in the world, can be seen nesting at the cliff’s edge. Lava gulls and pintail ducks ride the sea breezes nearby.

A brief panga ride brings us to the base of those same cliffs to reveal the full variety of bird species sheltering in the ledges and crevices created by the weathered basalt. Among them, red-billed tropicbirds enter and leave their nests trailing exotic kite-like tails. This is also an intriguing place to go deep-water snorkeling. The center of the caldera is very deep and attracts hammerheads and large manta rays which sometimes patrol the western edge of the caldera that is more open to the sea. You can snorkel here gazing down into the depths where you just may spot these large animals if you are fortunate. But don’t worry, if you don’t want to see them there is the equally amazing and far more sheltered snorkeling experience across the bay. Right around sunset, we will leave Tower to set out across the archipelago to the far western islands. Remember to watch the inner bay at sunset as you might spot a giant manta ray.

James Bay & Espumilla Beach

AM : In the morning we make our way along the northwestern shore of Santiago Island to South James Bay (Puerto Egas), which offers access to three unique sites. One landing is on a black beach with intriguing eroded rock formations inland. A trail crosses the dry interior eastward and rises to the rim of an extinct volcanic crater; cracks within it allow seawater to seep in, which then dries to form salt deposits that have been mined in the past. Darwin describes his visit to South James Bay in Voyage of the Beagle. Another path leads south, where hikers are treated to a series of crystal-clear grottos formed of broken lava tubes. These are home to sea lions and tropical fish. This is the best place in the islands to see fur sea lions lazing on the rocks by the grottos. Further to the north, another landing and path lead to a series of inland lagoons, home to flamingos. Birders coming to James Bay will have the opportunity to spot vermillion flycatchers, Galapagos hawks, and the tool-wielding woodpecker finch. Puerto Egas is a good spot for taking pictures - the light for photography is perfect at either dawn or sunset. The lava and the black sand seem to catch fire and the animals acquire a surreal and lovely quality. The marine iguanas that inhabit the area resemble Samurai warriors and can easily be seen grazing on seaweed in the more shallow pools of the grotto.

James Bay is a snorkeling site that is accessed from the shore instead of a dinghy. The sandy beach slopes off into a rocky bottom where a multitude of sea turtles like to hide by blending in with the rocks. But these rocks move and will swim right up to you. At certain times of the year, large schools of golden rays and spotted eagle rays also glide by. Both fur sea lions and California sea lions occasionally pass through as well.

PM : In the afternoon visitors to Espumilla Beach come in search of birds rather than freshwater. The short walk up the beach leads inland to a mangrove typically inhabited by the Common stilts. Beyond the mangroves is a brackish lagoon where flocks of pink flamingos and white-cheeked pintails wade in search of mollusks. The trail makes a passes over a tiny hilltop through a sparse Palo Santo forest before looping back to the beach. Galapagos finches and Vermilion flycatchers inhabit the area. The tuff formations that form the cliffs that surround the cove have created a natural sculptor gallery rising from the sea with formations including the Monk and Elephant Rock. An audience of hundreds of seabirds looks down upon the gallery from surrounding cliffs. Buccaneer Cove and Espumilla Beach offer one of the more dramatic kayaking routes in the Galapagos for paddlers looking for a challenge.

Punta Vicente Roca & Tagus Cove

AM : Located at the ‘mouth’ of the head of the sea horse, which forms the northern part of the Isabela is Punta Vicente Roca. Here the remnants of an ancient volcano form two turquoise coves with a bay well protected from the ocean swells. The spot is a popular anchorage from which to take panga rides along the cliff where a partially sunken cave beckons explorers. Masked and blue-footed boobies sit perched along with the point and the sheer cliffs, while flightless cormorants inhabit the shoreline. The upwelling of coldwater currents in combination with the protection of the coves makes Punta Vicente Roca one of the archipelago’s most sought after dive spots. One cove is only accessible from the sea by way of an underwater passage. The passage opens to calm waters of the hidden cove where sea lions laze on the beach having traveled along the underwater route. The entire area of Punta Vicente Roca lies on the flank of 2,600 foot Volcano Ecuador. This is the island’s sixth largest volcano. Half of Volcano Ecuador slid into the ocean leaving a spectacular cutaway view of its caldera. The site offers deep water snorkeling where sea lions turtles, spotted eagle rays, and even manta rays are the attraction. After our visit here we set off south and west across the Bolivar channel. Keep your eyes open in this best place in the islands for spotting whales.

PM : We head north along the western coast of Isabela Island, to Tagus Cove, named for a British warship that moored here in 1814. Historically the cove was used as an anchorage for pirates and whalers. One can still find the names of their ships carved into the rock above our landing, a practice now prohibited. The cove’s quiet waters make for an ideal panga ride beneath its sheltered cliffs, where blue-footed boobies, brown noddies, pelicans, and noddy terns make their nests, and flightless cormorants and penguins inhabit the lava ledges. From our landing, a wooden stairway rises to the trail entrance for a view of Darwin Lake; a perfectly round saltwater crater, barely separated from the ocean but above sea level! From the air one can see that both Tagus Cove and Darwin Lake are formed from one, partially flooded, tuff cone on the eastern edge of the giant Darwin volcano. The cove is formed by a breached and flooded section of the crater with Darwin Lake forming the very center of the same cone. The trail continues around the lake through a dry vegetation zone and then climbs inland to a promontory formed by spatter cones. The site provides spectacular views back toward our anchorage, as well as to Darwin Volcano and Wolf Volcano to the north.

While one does not normally think of greener pastures when planning to go snorkeling, that is exactly what you will find at Tagus Cove. The carpet of green algae that covers the floor of the cove gives the impression of a submerged pasture, and that is just what it is. You can find marine iguanas grazing the algae along with numerous sea turtles gliding and munching their way along. Because the cove opens to the rich waters of the Bolivar Channel this is one of the best snorkeling sites on the island. You also have a good chance of snorkeling with underwater feathered friends including Galapagos penguins and rare flightless cormorants. For those who want to dive deeper, special rewards are waiting for you at 3 meters where camouflaged creatures await, including scorpionfish nestled against the outcrops and sea horses masquerading as twigs of the seaweed waving in the currents. The rare Port Jackson shark can also be found here. Kayakers can enjoy a paddle around the cove, offering excellent views of nesting birds on the cliff walls above.

Espinosa Point & Urbina Bay

AM : Fernandina is the youngest and westernmost island in the Galapagos. It sits across the Bolivar Channel opposite Isabela. Our destination is Punta Espinosa, a narrow spit of land in the northeast corner of the island, where several unique Galapagos species can be seen nearby. As our panga driver skillfully navigates the reef, penguins show off by throwing themselves from the rocks into the water. Red and turquoise-blue crabs disperse across the lava shoreline, while great blue and lava herons forage through the mangrove roots. The landing is a dry one, set in a quiet inlet beneath the branches of a small mangrove forest. A short walk through the vegetation leads to a large colony of marine iguanas—a schoolyard of Godzilla’s children— resting atop one another in friendly heaps along the rocky shoreline, spitting water to clear their bodies of salt. Nearby, sea lions frolic in a sheltered lagoon.

Dominating this landscape from high overhead looms the summit of La Cumbre, 1,495 meters (4,858 feet), one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Farther down this stretch of shore, the world’s only species of flightless cormorants have established a colony near an inviting inlet frequented by sea turtles. Because these birds evolved without land predators - it was easier to feed on the squid, octopus, eel, and fish found in the ocean - the cormorants progressively took to the sea. They developed heavier, more powerful legs and feet for kicking, serpent-like necks, and fur-like plumage. Their wings are now mere vestiges. Back toward the landing and farther inland, the island’s black lava flows become more evident, forming a quiet, inner mangrove lagoon where you will spot rays and sea turtles gliding just below the surface. Galapagos hawks survey the entire scene from overhead.

The snorkeling off Punta Espinoza offers some real treats, as many of the creatures you just saw on land, including the Godzilla-like marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins, and sea lions await you in the waters off of the point (which incidentally was used as a set during the making of Master & Commander). A key feature of the ocean bottom here are the troughs formed by volcanic rock and ocean currents. Because these waters reach out into the Bolivar Channel they can be quite cold. Sea turtles like to hang out in the warm water of the troughs. You’ll also see marine iguanas ferrying back and forth between underwater grazing areas and their colonies onshore. This is an excellent place to see underwater iguanas munching on algae. If you are fortunate you may catch a glimpse of a flightless cormorant demonstrating their swimming abilities or watch a Galapagos penguin zip by. You will feel the difference in ocean temperature and watch the water get clearer as you move from the more protected shallow areas out into the cold rich waters of the channel. The Bolivar Channel is the very best place in the Galapagos to see dolphins and whales. On rare occasions, our groups have been able to swim with dolphins, kayak with melon-headed whales, and even spot the elusive sperm whale.

PM : Urbina Bay is directly west of Isabela’s Volcano Alcedo, where we will make an easy, wet landing (a hop into a few inches of water) onto a gently sloping beach. In 1954, a Disney film crew caught sight of this gleaming white strip and went to investigate. To their astonishment, three miles (5 km) of the marine reef had been uplifted by as much as 13 feet (4 meters) prior to their arrival. They discovered schools of stranded fish and other creatures in newly formed tidal pools along with the skeletons of sea turtles and sharks unable to make it to the ocean as a result of the uplift event. Alcedo erupted a few weeks later.

Now visitors can walk amongst the boulder-sized dried coral heads, mollusks, and other organisms that once formed the ocean floor. A highlight of this excursion is the giant land iguanas, whose vivid and gaudy yellow skin suggests that dinosaurs may have been very colorful indeed. Giant tortoises inhabit this coastal plain during the wet season, before migrating to the highlands when it turns dry. Our landing beach provides a nesting site for sea turtles and will also provide you with opportunities to snorkel amongst marine creatures, or just relax onshore. Here we must take care not to step on the sea turtle nests dug carefully into the sand. For those looking for snorkeling from a beach, this is the place, with tropical fish hiding amongst the rocks to the north side of the bay. This evening you have a real treat as the Grace sits at anchor in the Bolivar Channel where you will be spectacularly surrounded by the towering shield volcanoes that form Fernandina and Isabela. Sunset in the channel is also an excellent time to spot whales and dolphins that feed in these productive waters created by the upwelling of the Cromwell Current, while you enjoy a happy hour at the Sky lounge on the upper rear deck.

Elizabeth Bay & Punta Moreno

AM : Continuing our voyage south along the west coast of Isabela we enter the outer part of Elizabeth Bay where we come upon a tall rocky islet that is home to a colony of Galapagos Penguins. Looming to the south is the Sierra Negra volcano that forms the southern part of Isabela Island. In 2018 glowing rivers of lava lit up the night as they flowed down the flank of Sierra Negra toward Elizabeth Bay, where some of our lucky passengers had a front-row seat on one of the archipelago's most spectacular performances.

In contrast to the rugged lava fields of Sierra Negra, Elizabeth Bay is one of the most sensitive habitats in the Galapagos. This outing is entire aboard our pangas. The tangle of mangroves roots that line the Bay, as it narrows to a channel before widening out to the back bay, tend to still the waters making it seem like a giant aquarium while giving the area a green forested look. Spotted eagle rays, golden rays, and sea turtle glide just below the surface with the latter coming up occasionally to breathe. You may see a Galapagos hawk circling high overhead as we drift the calm waters. Approaching the back of the Bay, we bring our panga closer into a cluster of mangroves for a surprise. Sealions use the horizontal trunks of the mangroves as resting areas earning them the nickname tree lions.

PM : We return to the Grace for lunch as she makes her way a bit farther along the coast of Isabela to our next visitors’ site, Punta Moreno. You’ll likely be surprised at just how much life you can find in and around a pahoehoe lava field. In 2018 Sierra Negra Volcano, which looms over the entire southern part of the island (and really is the southern part of the island) gave the area a fresh coat of glowing lava that reached within 3 miles of our landing site. This is one of the least visited sites in the Galapagos.

Along the shore, you’ll have chances to see Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, and a colony of marine iguanas with a reddish tinge that sport the usual mohawk from head to tail. Sally Light-footed crabs dot the coast reminding us of the color of molten lava. This is one of those landing sites where you are best off with sneakers or hiking shoes due to time spent hiking over fields of broken lava (not because of hot lava) and there’s more here than lava lizards and cactus. As we cross the broken fields that sometimes sound like clinking glass, you’ll come upon a little oasis formed by natural pools surrounded by green grasses. These have become home and resting places for a variety of birds including gallinules, pink flamingos, pintail ducks, and more. As we continue along, the trail brings us to series of coastal lagoons, that again provides a surprising oasis of green including mangrove forests where pelicans nest. Look toward the bottom of the lagoons for resting white-tipped reef sharks, while green sea turtles ply the surface and great blue herons wade the shoreline. The snorkeling off Punta Moreno above a rocky bottom offers a similar assortment including sea turtles, stingrays, and sea lions mixed in with bumped head parrotfish, king angelfish, and schools of yellow-tailed and surgeon Pacific creole fish, and much more.

Darwin Station/Puerto Ayora & Highlands

AM : Puerto Villamil has a feeling of standing on the edge of the earth. The tiny fishing village, founded in 1897 by Don Antonio Gíl, is something of a forgotten gem in the islands. It has a population of roughly 2,000 people and is set amidst miles of white sandy beaches that rest at the outer edge of Sierra Negra Volcano. Buried pirates treasures has been unearthed here some years ago in the shadow of a tall coconut palm, thereby giving credence to all the legends of hidden treasure buried beneath palm trees. 

We visit Las Tintoreras which showcase colonies of sea lions, Galapagos turtles and iguanas; skates, sharks, penguins, sea cucumbers, urchins and a myriad members of the native flora and fauna whose peaceful interactions make you question exactly who’s really watching who. We continue to cuevas del Sucre which are fascinating lava formations, caves and tunnels located at an endemic forest.

Before finishing up the morning and navigating in the afternoon, we visit a breeding station for the endemic giant tortoise lead by the National Park Service as well as a hyper-saline lagoon frequented by flamingos and other waders and shore birds.

PM : Navigation to Santa Cruz Island

AM : We say goodbye to the Grace to take a 40 min. bus ride early in the morning to visit Los Gemelos. The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins). These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and you can easily encounter rain even when sun is shining a half an hour away at the coast.

Los Gemelos are surrounded by a Scalesia forest. Scalesia is endemic to Galapagos and many endemic and native species call the forest home. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher. After visiting Los Gemelos, we continue our bus ride for another 20 mins to the Itabaca channel. We will cross the channel and take a short bus ride to Baltra’s airport to bid you farewell.

Accommodations

Social areas.

Suites & Cabins

Premium stateroom.

The four Premium Staterooms are located on the lower Carolina C-Deck and as such have ocean-view portholes. Two have twin beds and two a queen bed. They also have features like a digital air-conditioner, a hairdryer, a safety box, and a closet to fit all your luggage. Guests can enjoy the private bathrooms that come with a body wash, a solid soap, shampoo, and conditioner to keep you refreshed.

There are two twin suites on the upper Albert A-Deck, both well designed and air-conditioned to ensure your utmost comfort. They have an ocean view window for you to take in the scenery of Galapagos Island, a safety box, a closet, and a hairdryer. The bathrooms are equipped with hot water.

Master Suite

The Grace's Master Suites are also located on the upper Albert A-Deck, and feature ocean-view windows, a sitting area, a digital air conditioner, a spacious closet to fit all your belongings, a safety box, and multiple electrical outlets. The beautifully designed bathrooms have hot showers, a hairdryer, and amenities to keep you feeling fresh.

Grace Kelly Suite

The Grace Kelly Suite is uniquely located on the middle Monaco M-Deck, in prime proximity to the Interior Lounge and Jacuzzi, and is spacious with ocean-view windows giving guests a tasteful view of the Galapagos Islands. The suite features a desk, a closet, a safety deposit box, and multiple electrical outlets. The gorgeous hot water bathroom has all the amenities to ensure the guest stays refreshed.

Technical Information

• Air conditioning
• Deck shower
• Pool / Jacuzzi
• Lecture room
• WIFI available
• Kosher Meals
• Satellite phone
• Snorkeling gear
• Kayaks / Canoes

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Home » Galapagos Cruises and Tours » Grace Galapagos Cruise

Grace Galapagos Cruise

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Grace Galapagos Yacht offers two different itineraries

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The 16-passenger Galapagos Grace was a wedding gift from Aristotle Onassis to Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco, and it was on board this vessel where they spent their honeymoon getaway. Cruise back in time and lay back in luxury, enjoying one of the finest Galapagos luxury cruises available in the Galapagos Islands. The Grace boasts a high crew-to-passenger ratio, spacious cabins and stylish lines. The carefully selected professional and friendly naturalists aboard are the most knowledgeable in the region, with an average of 15 years of experience guiding on the islands. Travelers comment that the service on board this ship, coupled with the true feeling of a safari experience, is unlike anything that is currently offered in Galapagos. 

Grace operates two unique 8-day Galapagos cruise itineraries, which can be combined into an all-encompassing 15-day cruise. We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Call today to inquire about a specific Galapagos Grace itinerary or to learn more about Galapagos Grace cruises.

Experience the full spectrum of Galapagos wildlife that made the islands famous and inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Follow Darwin’s Trail along a West Galapagos Islands route, or go Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps along an East Galapagos Islands route; each itinerary has a bit of it all to visit a varied selection of islands. Both itineraries begin and end in Baltra. While landing sites are different, both trips also visit Santa Cruz, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, kayak, hike and enjoy panga rides. 

Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps itinerary highlights include: Take in views of Kicker Rock. Leave (and take) a postcard from the barrel at Post Office Bay before hiking into a lava tube that leads to a swimming opportunity in a subterranean grotto. Spend a morning at the Charles Darwin Research Station to view giant tortoises and an endemic scalesia forest before free time in the port city of Puerto Ayora. Experience Floreana Island’s Peace Asylum and Devil’s Crown; San Cristobal’s Punta Pitt, Lobos Island and Kicker Rock; Santa Cruz’s Dragon Hill and stops at the islands of Santa Fe and South Plaza. Cap this Galapagos small ship cruise with a visit to Black Turtle Cove.

Following Darwin’s Trail itinerary highlights include: Be surrounded by the bustle of great frigatebirds and their puffball chicks, yellow-crowned herons and lava herons at Genovesa, known as “Bird Island.” Snorkel the nutrient-rich waters of Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island. Take in the green algae of Tagus Cove and hike around Darwin Lake for spectacular views. See the Monk and Elephant Rock tuff formations of Espumilla Beach. Spend time in the capital port town of Puerto Ayora and visit the giant tortoises and lava caves nearby. Search for the tropics-exclusive waved albatross. Immerse in Bachas Beach and Los Gemelos on Santa Cruz Island, and Elizabeth Bay and Punta Moreno on Isabela Island. End the trip with a visit to Los Gemelos with their surrounding scalesia forest, an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher.

Choose between two excellent 8-day itineraries, combine them for the complete 15-day tour, or consider making your own itinerary. Live like Princess Grace and charter the whole boat; at only 16 guests, she’s one of our favorites for private  Galapagos yacht charters .

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

Beyond Darwin's Footsteps Itinerary

The 8-day, Tuesday-Tuesday, Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps Cruise begins and end in Baltra. Delve deep into the history and evolution of the Galapagos eastern and southern islands with additional stops at Santa Cruz, Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, Santa Fe, South Plaza, North Seymour, Bartolome and Chinese Hat.

Arrive to Baltra, take a short bus ride to the Itabaca channel and immediately visit Los Gemelos. The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins), two large sinkholes craters formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and it may rain even when the sun is shining a half an hour away at the coast. Los Gemelos are surrounded by a Scalesia forest, endemic to Galapagos and home to many endemic and native species. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher.

A highlight of any trip to the archipelago is a visit to the Santa Cruz Highlands, where the sparse, dry coastal vegetation transitions to lush wet fields and forests overgrown with moss and lichens. Visit the Wild Tortoise Reserve for a chance to track and view these friendly ancient creatures in their natural setting. This extends to the adjacent pasturelands, where farmers give tortoise safe quarter in exchange for allowing paying visitors to see them.

This afternoon, board the M/Y Grace and visit Puerto Ayora, home to both the Galapagos National Park Service Headquarters and Charles Darwin Research Station, the center of the great restorative efforts taking place in the park and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Giant Tortoise Breeding & Rearing Program run by the research station, which began by rescuing the remaining 14 tortoises on the island of Española in 1970. This program has restored the population of animals there to over 1,000 today. This is where famed tortoise, Lonesome George, lived out his last days as the last of his particular race of tortoise.

Celebrate being aboard the M/Y Grace with a happy hour atop her sky lounge, where drinks are available daily along with hors d’oeuvres. Later, gather in the main salon for a presentation by the naturalist guide before sitting down to dinner. Spend a bit more time in port this evening before setting sail for the island of Floreana.

lunch, dinner

Floreana has a colorful history: pirates, whalers, convicts, and a small band of somewhat peculiar colonists—a self-proclaimed Baroness among them—who chose a Robinson Crusoe existence that ended in death and mystery. Today, roughly a hundred Ecuadorians inhabit the island. In 1793, British whalers set up a barrel as the island’s post office, to send letters home on passing ships. The tradition continues to this day. Simply drop a post card into the barrel without a stamp. And if you do, you must take a post card from the barrel and see that it gets to the right place. That is how the system began and continues to this day.

Continuing a bit farther inland at Post Office Bay, enter the underworld of Floreana in the form of a lava tube. The lava tube descends fairly deep into the earth back toward the ocean, where you can swim in a subterranean grotto beneath the tide. Bring a good waterproof flashlight. Snorkeling in Post Office Bay offers choice encounters with waiting sea turtles and tropical fish.

Visit a tortoise reserve and watch many of the giant tortoises up close and personal. All the while, the naturalist guides points out the wildlife and explains colorful history of Floreana’s first inhabitants like the Baroness and re-telling the legend of the “Floreana Mystery.” Return to the Grace for lunch and a siesta. Land farther along the shore to the northeast and pass within view of Baroness Point in an area of mangrove lined lagoons. Eloise Wehrborn de Wagner-Bosquet, the self-proclaimed Baroness (of Floreana) frequented this overlook.

Punta Cormorant offers two highly contrasting beaches: one composed of volcanic olivine crystals, giving it a greenish tint that glitters in the sun, the other is a very fine white sand known as Flour Beach, formed by the erosion of coral skeletons. Between the two beaches in a basin formed by the surrounding volcanic cones is a hyper-saline lagoon frequented by flamingoes, pintails, stilts and other wading birds. Stop at the lagoon and then continue on the trail to Four Beach. Be careful not to wade into the tide with bare feet, as the silty surf is rife with rays. Look for sea turtles surfing the waves off the beach. Return to the Grace, don your wetsuit and make your way around Punta Cormorant.

Not far from the north shore of Floreana is the tiny islet known as Champion. Champion is considered one of the top snorkeling sites the Galapagos offering prime underwater sea lion interactions. Dolphins are frequently seen near the shore along with humpback whales who like the bay off Flour Beach. Swim with the sea lions and be surrounded by an assortment of tropical fish including yellowtail grunts, amberjacks and schools of king angel. Possibly spot sleepy white-tipped reef sharks hugging the bottom. Sea turtles glide by, while torpedo-like Galapagos penguins can also be encountered in the waters off Champion.

Alternatively, perhaps snorkel at Devil’s Crown which is located some 700 feet north of Punta Cormorant. Devil’s Crown is an old submerged volcanic cone that has been worn down by waves and is home to a myriad of marine species including several species of corals, sea urchins, and a great number of fish species, making this place one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos. The eroded crater walls form a popular roosting site for seabirds including boobies and pelicans. The snorkeling begins outside the crater to the southeast, where a swift current will take you for a ride along the north side of the crown and right into the middle. Relax, enjoy the ride and let the current do the work. After the ride keep your eyes open for spotted eagle rays and golden rays that like to swim near the crown. Once back aboard the Grace, soak in the warm Jacuzzi and then retire for hors d’ouevres and drinks to enjoy the sunset.

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Hood (also called Espanola) is the southernmost island of the archipelago and is one of the most popular due to the breathtaking variation and sheer number of fauna and Gardner Bay. The giant tortoise was reintroduced to Hood in the 1970s and counts as one of the park’s great success stories. They reside in an off-limits area, but don’t worry—the famous giant tortoise awaits you on other islands! The quantity and variety of wildlife at Punta Suarez is remarkable. Sea lions surf the waves beyond the breakwater landing, and tiny pups are known to greet your toes upon arrival. A few steps inland is a colorful variety of marine iguana in the Galapagos. They bear distinctive red and black markings, some with a flash of turquoise running down their spine. They nap in communal piles or cling to the rocks for warmth.

The trail leads beside the western edge of the island where masked boobies (also known as Nazca boobies) nest along the cliff’s edge. The trail descends to a rocky beach before rising to an open area where there is often a large gathering of nesting blue-foot boobies. Galapagos doves, cactus finch and mockingbirds forage nearby, unconcerned by human presence. Both lava and swallow-tailed gulls, with their red ringed eyes, sit atop the cliffs in company with marine iguanas. The trail continues to the high cliff edge of the southern shore. Below, a shelf of black lava reaches out into the surf where a blowhole shoots a periodic geyser of saltwater into the air.

Farther east along the cliff is the Albatross Airport where waved albatross line up to launch their great winged bodies from the cliffs, soaring out over the dramatic shoreline of crashing waves and driven spray. These are the largest birds in the Galapagos with wingspans up to 7.4 feet. They are the only species of albatross exclusive to the tropics. In the trees set back from the cliff is one of only two places in the world where the waved albatross nests. The 12,000 pairs that inhabit Hood Island comprise all but a tiny fraction of the world’s population of this species. Lucky visitors can watch courtship ‘fencing’ done with great yellow beaks. Large, fluffy, perfectly camouflaged chicks adorn nests on the ground nearby. The albatross lay their eggs from April through June though they can be seen fencing long after that. Eggs take two months to hatch. Hungry chicks can eat up to 4.4 pounds a day, which keeps their parents busy. By December the chicks are fully grown and ready to set out on their own in January. Pairs mate for life.

On the northeastern shore of Hood, Gardner Bay offers a magnificent long white sandy beach, where colonies of sea lions laze in the sun, sea turtles swim offshore and inquisitive mockingbirds boldly investigate new arrivals. Step off the powdery white sand into the turquoise water for a swim, but just a little further off-shore the snorkeling by Gardner Island offers peak encounters with playful young sea lions and schools of surprisingly large tropical fish, including yellow tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump-head parrot fish. The young sea lions like to snack and play along Gardner Island’s sea cliff. They dart up from the depths, playfully show off their skills and then disappear. Sleepy white-tipped reef sharks can also be seen napping on the bottom. Gardner Bay and Islet also offer inviting waters for those interested.

Punta Pitt is located at the east end of San Cristobal Island. The trail includes an olivine beach approximately 300 feet and a trail that ascends to the top of a volcanic tuff hill passing through several natural viewpoints. Punta Pitt is composed of volcanic tuff substrate. This is the only site in the Galapagos Islands to watch all three species of boobies and two species of frigates nesting in the same area. Due to its geographic location and abundance of food, there is hardly any competition between them. The blue footed boobies nest in the interior of Punta Pitt, red-footed boobies nest on bushes and masked boobies nest in the cliffs.  Sealions can also be found in the area. San Cristobal was the first island Darwin visited when he arrived in 1835. He reported encountering a pair of giant tortoises feeding on cactus during that outing.

To the southeast of Kicker Rock lies Isla Lobos. The tiny island is separated from much larger San Cristobal by a narrow channel and little bay. This basalt island outcropping lives up to its name of Sea Lion Island and is home to a noisy population of frolicking and barking beasts. It is also a nesting place for blue-footed boobies and an excellent spot for snorkeling with sea lions. After walking the trail for some baby sea lion and booby watching amidst the sands beneath the salt bushes, have a real treat: change into snorkeling gear for some swimming with sea lions! They may dart past, then swim up and blow bubbles at your mask. On occasion they have been known to leap over and then dive in front of unsuspecting snorkelers.

Warm up from your dip in Grace’s Jacuzzi, while the ship heads up the coast from Isla Lobos to Leon Dormido, also known as Kicker Rock, a spectacular formation that rises 500 feet out of the Pacific. It takes the form of a sleeping lion, hence it’s Spanish name. From another angle one can see that the rock is split forming a colossal table and, piercing the sea, a great chisel ready for etching. Circumnavigate the rock formation and, depending on weather, go snorkeling again for a chance to see hammerhead sharks.

Santa Fe features one of the more beautiful and sheltered coves in the islands. Its turquoise lagoon is protected by a peninsula of tiny islets forming an ideal anchorage. The island lies southeast of Santa Cruz Island within sight of Puerto Ayora. Geologically, it is one of the oldest islands in the archipelago and for many years was thought to be a product of an uplift event. Through satellite imagery it has been possible to determine the island’s volcanic origins. A wet landing on a sandy white beach brings offers contact with one of many sea lion colonies. Bulls contend for the right of being beach master, while smaller males mask as females to make stealthy mating moves. Galapagos hawks are sometimes easily approached, perched atop salt bushes.

Ascend a trail leading toward the cliffs, where a dense inland thicket stand, and the cliff side provides an expansive view of the ocean. The forest of giant prickly pear cactus live up to their name with tree-sized trunks—the largest of their kind in the Galapagos. At the top of the trail, hope to spot one of the large species of land iguana endemic to Santa Fe. Beige to chocolate brown in color with dragon-like spines, these big iguanas truly resemble dinosaurs. An indigenous species of rice rat also inhabits the thicket, and lucky hikers may spot harmless Galapagos snakes. After the hike, there is nothing more inviting than snorkeling in the calm waters of the bay where sea lions play, sea turtles swim and tropical fish hide amidst the islets that form the natural reef. Santa Fe offers a more advanced kayaking route along its northern shore that ends at sea caves and is subject to conditions.

South Plaza Island lies just a few hundred meters off the east coast of Santa Cruz Island. South Plaza is one of the smallest yet richest islands in the archipelago. Just over 400 feet wide, it was formed by lava upwelling from the bottom of the ocean and is known for its lush and diverse flora. A grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cacti, a ground cover of red sesuvium, the turquoise waters of the channel and fiery Sally Lightfoot crabs combine to create a colorful palate of an island to explore. One of the big attractions here are the friendly yellow land iguanas waiting for lunch to drop from a cactus in the form of a prickly pear. Follow a trail up the tilt of the island to cliffs that look out over the ocean. Swallow-tailed gulls with red banded eyes nest atop the overlook, where its possible to spot marine life such as manta rays. South Plaza has a very healthy population of sea lions including a colony of bachelors that sit atop the cliff. They unintentionally polish the surrounding rocks with the oil from their fur. Look for red-billed tropic birds, Nazca and blue-footed boobies catching rides on the wind currents.

North Seymour Island was lifted from the ocean floor by a seismic event, and its origins as a seabed give the island its low, flat profile. Cliffs only a few meters high form much of the shoreline, where swallow-tailed gulls sit perched in ledges. A tiny forest of silver-grey Palo Santo trees stand just above the landing, usually without leaves, waiting for the rain to bring them into bloom. This island is teeming with life.

Give way to a passing sea lion or marine iguana. Blue-footed boobies nest on either side of the trail where mating pairs perform their courtship dance or fluffy white chicks peel out from beneath their protective mothers. The trail follows the eastern shore along the beach, where flocks of brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies hunt schools of fish. The boobies are ideally adapted as dive bombers and easily pierce the water, zeroing in on their targeted prey. Frigatebirds with wingspans of up to 5 feet soar overhead and all around. They were named for the way that the trim of their wings in flight are reminiscent of the square rigged sailing warship. Not coincidentally frigatebirds are also called Man O’ War birds and they live up to that name when they target boobies, pelicans and other birds to steal their catch. Because the frigates are pelagic, they lack the ability to take off from the water, so they do better at snatching fish from the surface or simply stealing them. They also target marine iguanas and young baby sea turtles.

The trail turns east and inland to reveal the nesting stronghold of the frigates. Watch males with large, bright red, inflated throat sacks known as gular pouches, all done in an effort to attract females. The guide points out the difference between the magnificent, or Man O’ War frigates, and their great frigate bird cousins. Large puff-ball frigate bird chicks inhabit nests, waiting for their parents to return with a meal. Even at this young age they possess long hooked beaks and act defiant when they feel threatened. Take a closer look at the feathers of the proud parents and notice their iridescent quality and deep green tinge.

Another inhabitant along the trail is the yellow land iguana. The species was originally introduced to the North Seymour in 1932 by Captain Alan Hancock and his crew from Baltra with the aim of rescuing the creatures from the poor conditions left by goats and other feral animals. The iguanas colonized the island without problem. The original colony disappeared from Baltra when it became a US military base in WWII. In 1980, the Charles Darwin Station began a breeding program using some of the animals found on Seymour and successfully reintroduced their prodigy to both islands. Today the population on Seymour is roughly 600 and on Baltra 1,500.

The snorkeling site at North Seymour also attracts scuba divers, with a chance to see many types of rays including marble rays, golden eagle rays, spotted eagle rays, sting rays and even manta rays. Dormitories of white-tipped reef sharks sleep on the bottom while schools of king angelfish and yellow tailed surgeonfish swarm the rocky shoreline passing the occasional parrot and damselfish. Some of the rocks are actually well disguised scorpion fish. Large schools of tightly packed blue and gold snappers, grunts and jacks are usually found plying these waters. Sea lions pay visits from both Seymour and nearby Mosquera Island as sea turtles and the occasional hammerhead shark can been seen down in the depths. Creole fish, the color of red salsa; hieroglyphic hawkfish, with neon-like etchings on their flanks; and spotfin burrfish, which look a bit like a swimming shoe box with a cartoon face, also inhabit the region.

Bartolomé is famous for Pinnacle Rock, a towering spearheaded obelisk that rises from the ocean’s edge and is the best known landmark in the Galapagos, which served as a back drop in the film Master & Commander. Galapagos penguins the only species of penguin found north of the equator walk precariously along narrow volcanic ledges at its base. Sea lions snooze on rocky platforms, ready to slide into the water to play with passing snorkelers. Below the surface, shoals of tropical fish dodge in and out of the rocks past urchins, sea stars and anemones.

A perfectly crescent sandy beach lies just to the east of the pinnacle and across a narrow isthmus another beach mirrors this one to the south. Sea turtles use both beaches and another to the west of the Pinnacle as nesting sites and can sometimes be seen wading back out into the shallow water near the shore or resting in the sand recovering from the arduous task of digging nests, laying eggs and covering them over. Penguins like to rest atop the nearby rocks by our next landing site, about a quarter mile east along the shore. The submerged walls of a tiny volcanic crater give the impression of a large fountain pool.

The entrance to a 2,000-foot pathway complete with stairs and boardwalks leads to Bartolome’s summit. The route is not difficult and presents an open textbook of the islands’ volcanic origins: a site left untouched after its last eruption, where small cones stand in various stages of erosion and lava tubes form bobsled-like runs down from the summit. At the top, be rewarded with spectacular views of Santiago Island and Sullivan Bay to the west, and far below, Pinnacle Rock and the crystal turquoise waters of the bay cradling the Grace. The next landing site is a short distance away to the southeast.

This evening will be especially relaxed; consider enjoying a long, lingering soak in the Jacuzzi. The Grace yacht can stay anchored where she is tonight as you are already within sight of the next morning’s landing site across the channel just to the south. The view east toward the tiny twin table mountain islands of Daphne Major and Daphne Minor is particularly inviting with the sun setting behind them.

Tiny Sombrero Chino (Chinese Hat) Island is named for the resemblance its shape has to a traditional Chinese Coolie’s hat. Today’s visitor site is off limits to larger groups and day boats, making Sombrero Chino, along with Daphne Major, one of the least visited sites in the central islands. The island lies just off the southeastern tip of the large nearby island of Santiago, separated by a narrow channel which makes for very calm, protected waters. Step ashore on a tiny crescent shaped cove with sandy white beach cradled between black lava rocks and the crystal turquoise waters of the channel. A sea lion colony likes to rest on the warm white sands, while the rockier sections of the coast are alive with colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs. Marine iguanas sun themselves atop the rocks after foraging for algae in the channel. American oyster catchers stalk the tide pools stabbing at shellfish with their bright orange beaks.

Take a quarter-mile trail into the island’s volcanic interior to explore its rock formations, including excellent examples of pahoehoe lava resembling black rock ropes. The area is inhabited by ground-hugging red sesuvim plants and curious lava lizards. Back at the cove, enjoy another opportunity to snorkel with sea lions as well as rockier sections of the coastline inhabited by Galapagos penguins that dart past unsuspecting snorkelers. Galapagos penguins are the only species of penguin you’ll find living north of the nearby equator. Paddlers will have the opportunity to kayak in areas not indicated as off limited by national park signs.

In the early afternoon, set out to Dragon Hill. Bright yellow land iguanas inhabit the northeastern shore of Santa Cruz Island, with large spines on their backs that make them look even more like their legendary cousins. All they lack are wings. In the 1900s their ancestors were once moved to nearby Venezia islet to protect them from the feral dogs that once roamed Santa Cruz. When the dogs were removed, the colony was returned and today they thrive around the hill that is named in their honor, Cerro Dragon. The lava flows that reach out from the shore from Cerro Dragon form black reefs that make for excellent snorkeling at high tide.

Make a dry landing and spot yellow warblers that stand out against the black lava. Walk up the beach to a trail that leads to a hyper saline lagoon, which is a seasonal haunt for pink flamingos. At the top of Dragon Hill, notice the transition from intertidal vegetation like mangroves to dry zone vegetation including palo santo cactus and the silvery leafed palo santo trees. Keep a look out for the famous Darwin’s finches. Also known as Galapagos finches, they were first collected by Charles Darwin and make a group of about 15 species that are found nowhere else. Ironically, they are not related to true finches.

While walking through the scalesia forests, look for dragons below and endemic cactus finch and woodpecker finch perched overhead. The loop trail heads inland and up the hill. The rough terrain makes this hike a bit challenging, but the view back toward the bay is rewarding. The real reward, of course, is the dragons hiding in the thicket.  Back at the beach, lucky observers may see one of Santa Cruz Island’s fearless Galapagos hawks perched atop the lava, surveying the surroundings.

This last morning in the Galapagos includes a visit to Black Turtle Cove. Located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz, the cove is a living illustration of how mangroves alter the marine environment to create a rich and unique habitat. Four species of mangrove crowd the shore and lagoon, which stretches almost a mile inland. Drift through the quiet waters in the dinghy in search of spotted eagle rays and cow-nosed or golden rays, which swim in a diamond formation. White-tipped reef sharks can be seen beneath the boat and Pacific green sea turtles come to the surface for air and to mate. Sea birds, including brown pelicans, blue herons and lava herons, come to feed in the cove which has also been declared a “Turtle Sanctuary.”

Set sail for nearby Baltra Island, which was a US Air Force base during WWII and still has remnants of the old foundations from that era ashore. It doesn’t take long for the Grace to navigate north along Baltra’s western shore to the island’s port. The crew will see to transporting your luggage ashore. All you need to do is take along your carry-on luggage for the short crossing to shore, where a bus will drive the five minutes to the airport. This is one last chance to purchase souvenirs in the airport. Almost all flights to the mainland stop in Guayaquil and continue on to Quito so make sure you know where to get off the plane. Say farewell the to Galapagos and begin your journey home or to some other destination like the Ecuadorian Highlands, Amazon or nearby Peru.

Comprehensive pre- and post-cruise information material; accommodations aboard Evolution; all meals and snacks; all transfers in Galapagos; guides and activities throughout the cruise;  limited use of Wi-Fi; select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise; use of snorkeling equipment, 3mm long wetsuits and sea kayaks, Galapagos National Park fee; Transit Control Card.

Round-trip Galapagos airfare; hotel accommodations in mainland Ecuador; airport transfers in Ecuador; gratuities and tips to guides, crew and staff; premium brands of wines, beer or spirits; additional wi-fi minutes; other personal expenses.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a non-refundable deposit of $900 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special group (4+ staterooms) and holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply, inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure: Up to 65 days – 100% of deposit 64 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’  Terms and Conditions . Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

Most flights to the Galapagos will depart Quito or Guayaquil between 6:00am and 11:00am on Day 1 and return between 2:00pm and 6:00pm on the final day. We highly recommend travelers arrive to Ecuador two days prior to their Galapagos cruise. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our  Booking Flights  resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip concludes.

Internal Flights

Flights from mainland Ecuador (Quito or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.

There are numerous opportunities to swim and snorkel. The underwater experience is an integral part of any Galapagos cruise. We encourage all travelers to try snorkeling. Snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins, floating vest and net bag) are provided. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December.

Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (inflatable skiffs). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at a 50% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Staterooms, and a 75% supplement of the per-person listed rate in Suites. A 100% supplement of the per-person listed rate applies on holiday departures (Christmas and New Year dates).

Families & Children

Children 15 years and younger receive a 15% discount off the cruise fare (not available for holiday departures). A maximum of three children discounts are allowed per family per booking. There is a minimum age of 5 years, but exceptions may be made for designated family departures and/or private charters.

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for this trip, with a minimum recommended coverage of $50,000 per person. In addition to the emergency evacuation insurance, we highly recommend our travelers protect their travel investment with insurance. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details.  Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote .

We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Following Darwin's Trail Itinerary

The 8-day, Tuesday-Tuesday, Following Darwin’s Trail Cruise begins and end in Baltra. Become enchanted by the history and lessons of the Galapagos’s additional western islands: Santa Cruz, Genovesa, Santiago, Isabela and Fernandina.

Arrive to the island of Baltra and be met by the guide, who will accompany you on the short bus ride to the waterfront. During WWII the island of Baltra was a US Air Force base and one can still see the remnants of the old foundations left behind from that era. Transfer via dinghy to the M/Y Grace and settle into your new home for the week before assembling to review safety procedures and the coming events.

Cruise to the north end of Santa Cruz Island to Las Bachas, comprised of two sandy white-coral beaches that are major egg-laying sites for sea turtles. The island got its name during WWII when the US military discarded two barges on the beaches. Following the war, when the first settlers arrived, they mispronounced barges as bachas, resulting in the name. There are other explanations of how the location got its name having to do with indentations left in the sand by both egg laying sea turtles and their departing hatchlings.

Go ashore the white sandy beach and be greeted by patrolling blue-footed boobies. A brief walk inland leads to a lagoon where pink flamingos are often found along with great blue herons, common stilts, brown noddys, white-cheek pintail ducks and migratory birds. Snorkel from the beach and enjoy a swim in waters that are typically warmer than in other places in the Galapagos.

Tower Island (Genovesa) could serve as a film set for a remote secret submarine base. The southwestern part of the island is an ocean-filled caldera ringed by the outer edges of a sizeable and mostly submerged volcano. The island sits to the northwest, slightly removed from the rest of the archipelago. It is also known as Bird Island, a name it lives up to in a spectacular way.

First land on Prince Phillip’s Steps, named for a visit by the British Monarch in 1964. The dry landing begins at the base of an 81-foot stairway leading up to a narrow stretch of land that opens out onto a small plateau. This is actually a small peninsula that forms the southeastern section of the island. Red-footed boobies wrap their webbed feet around branches to precariously perch in the bushes where they nest. In contrast, their masked-booby cousins dot the surface of the scrublands beyond. Crossing through the sparse vegetation, come to a broad lava field that extends toward sea cliffs that form the island’s southern edge. The cavities and holes that have been eroded into the fragile lava are an ideal nesting ground for storm petrels. There are two species, the Galapagos petrel, who is active by day, and the wooden petrel, who feeds at night. The petrels flutter out over the ocean in swarms then return to nest in the cracks and tunnels of the lava field but not without hazard. Short-eared owls lay in camouflaged wait and make their living feeding off the returning petrels. After completing the two-hour hike, return to the vessel to change into wetsuits for some snorkeling at one of the best sites in the islands.

Near Phillip’s Steps, along the cliffs that form the protected southern bay of the Tower’s caldera, enter the water and into another world. Notice the warm-water fish feeding off cold water nutrients. There’s a full assortment here, including oversized parrot, unicorn, angel and hogfish along with schools of perch, surgeon fish and various types of butterfly fish. Hiding in and around the rocky shoreline that drops off into the caldera are a rainbow assortment of wrasse, basslet, anthias and tang. This is the place to bring your underwater tropical fish identification chart. There are some special treats to be found here including occasional visits by fur sea lions. This area of the bay is also excellent for kayaking in the calm waters close to the shore to observe nesting birds. Take a paddle after lunch, before the next landing across the bay to the north.

This afternoon, land on the white coral sands of Darwin Bay and walk up the beach to be surrounded by the bustling activity of great frigate birds. Puffball chicks and their proud papas—who sport bulging scarlet throat-sacks—crowd the surrounding branches, while yellow-crowned herons and lava herons feed by the shore. Farther along, discover a stunning series of sheltered pools set into a rocky outcrop. Watch out for marine iguanas, lava lizards and Galapagos doves underfoot, as they blend well with the trail. The trail beside the pools leads up to a cliff overlooking the ocean-filled caldera, where pairs of swallow-tailed gulls, the only nocturnal gulls in the world, can be seen nesting at the cliff’s edge. Lava gulls and pintail ducks ride the sea breezes nearby.

Take brief panga ride to the base of those same cliffs to reveal the full variety of bird species sheltering in the ledges and crevices created by the weathered basalt. Among them, red–billed tropic birds enter and leave their nests trailing exotic kite-like tails. This is also an intriguing place to go deep-water snorkeling. The center of the caldera is very deep and attracts hammerheads and large manta rays which sometimes patrol the western edge of the caldera that is more open to the sea. While snorkeling, gaze down into the depths to spot these large animals if you are fortunate. But don’t worry, if you don’t really want to see them there is the equally amazing and far more sheltered snorkeling experience across the bay. At sunset, leave Tower Islands to set out across the archipelago to the far western islands. Remember to watch the inner bay at sunset to spot a giant manta ray.

In the morning, sail along the northwestern shore of Santiago Island to South James Bay (Puerto Egas), which offers access to three unique sites. One landing is on a black beach with intriguing eroded rock formations inland. A trail crosses the dry interior eastward and rises to the rim of an extinct volcanic crater; cracks within it allow sea water to seep in, which then dries to form salt deposits that have been mined in the past. Darwin describes his visit to South James Bay in Voyage of the Beagle.

Another path leads south, where hikers are treated to a series of crystal-clear grottos formed of broken lava tubes. These are home to sea lions and tropical fish and is the best place in the islands to see fur sea lions lazing on the rocks by the grottos. Farther to the north, another landing and path lead to a series of inland lagoons, home to flamingos. Birders coming to James Bay will be excited to spot vermillion flycatchers, Galapagos hawks and the tool-wielding woodpecker finch. Puerto Egas is a good spot for taking pictures—the light for photography is perfect at either dawn or sunset. The lava and the black sand seem to catch fire and the animals acquire a surreal and lovely quality. The marine iguanas that inhabit the area resemble Samurai warriors and can easily be seen grazing on seaweed in the shallower pools of the grotto.

James Bay is a snorkeling site that is accessed from the shore instead of a dinghy. The sandy beach slopes off into a rocky bottom where a multitude of sea turtles like to hide by blending in with the rocks. But these rocks move and swim right up to you. At certain times of the year large schools of golden rays and spotted eagle rays also glide by. Both fur sea lions and California sea lions occasionally pass through as well.

In the afternoon, visit Espumilla Beach in search of birds rather than fresh water. The short walk up the beach leads inland to a mangrove typically inhabited by the common stilts. Beyond the mangroves is a brackish lagoon where flocks of pink clamingos and white cheeked pintails wade in search of mollusks. The trail passes over a tiny hilltop through a sparse Palo Santo forest before looping back to beach. Galapagos finches and Vermilion fly catchers inhabit the area.

The tuff formations that form the cliffs that surround the cove have created a natural sculptor gallery rising from the sea with formations including the Monk and Elephant Rock. An audience of hundreds of seabirds looks down upon the gallery from surrounding cliffs. Buccaneer Cove and Espumilla Beach offer one of the more dramatic kayaking routes in the Galapagos for paddlers looking for a challenge.

Located at the mouth of the sea horse, which forms the northern part of the Isabela Island, is Punta Vicente Roca. Here the remnants of an ancient volcano forms two turquoise coves with a bay well protected from the ocean swells. The spot is a popular anchorage from which to take panga rides along the cliff where a partially sunken cave beckons explorers. Masked and blue-footed boobies sit perched along the point and the sheer cliffs, while flightless cormorants inhabit the shoreline. The upwelling of coldwater currents in combination with the protection of the coves make Punta Vicente Roca one of the archipelago’s most sought after dive spots.

One cove is only accessible from the sea by way of an underwater passage. The passage opens to calm waters of the hidden cove where sea lions laze on the beach having traveled along the underwater route. The entire area of Punta Vicente Roca lies on the flank of 2,600-foot Volcano Ecuador. This is the island’s sixth largest volcano. Half of Volcano Ecuador slid into the ocean leaving a spectacular cutaway view of its caldera. The site offers deep water snorkeling where sea lions turtles, spotted eagle rays and even manta rays are the attraction. Next, set off south and west across the Bolivar channel, with eyes open in this best place in the islands for spotting whales.

Isabela is the largest island in the archipelago, accounting for half of the total landmass of the Galapagos at 4,588 square kilometers. Though narrow in places, the island runs 132 km from north to south, or 82 miles. Isabella is formed from six shield volcanoes that merged into a single landmass. It is also home to the highest point in the Galápagos, Wolf Volcano at 5,547 feet, and calderas of up to 12.5 miles across.

Head north along the western coast of Isabela Island to Tagus Cove, named for a British warship that moored here in 1814. Historically the cove was used as an anchorage for pirates and whalers. The names of their ships are still carved into the rock above our landing, a practice now prohibited. The cove’s quiet waters make for an ideal panga ride beneath its sheltered cliffs, where blue-footed boobies, brown noddies, pelicans and noddy terns make their nests, and flightless cormorants and penguins inhabit the lava ledges.

From the landing site, a wooden stairway rises to the trail entrance for a view of Darwin Lake, a perfectly round saltwater crater barely separated from the ocean but above sea level. Tagus Cove and Darwin Lake were formed from one, partially flooded tuff cone on the eastern edge of giant Darwin volcano.

The cove is formed by a breached and flooded section of the crater with Darwin Lake forming the very center of the same cone. The trail continues around the lake through a dry vegetation zone, and then climbs inland to a promontory formed by spatter cones. The site provides spectacular views back toward our anchorage, as well as to Darwin Volcano and Wolf Volcano to the north.

In Tagus Cove, the carpet of green algae that covers the floor gives the impression of a submerged pasture, and really that is just what it is. Marine iguanas graze the algae along with numerous sea turtles gliding and munching their way along. Because the cove opens to the rich waters of the Bolivar Channel, it is one of the best snorkeling sites in the island. There’s a good chance of snorkeling with underwater feathered friends including Galapagos penguins and rare flightless cormorants.  For those who want to dive deeper, there are special rewards waiting under 3 meters, where camouflaged creatures await, including scorpion fish nestled against the outcrops and sea horses masquerading as twigs of the seaweed waving in the currents. The rare Port Jackson shark can also be found here. Kayakers enjoy a paddle around the cove, offering excellent views of nesting birds on the cliff walls above.

Fernandina is the youngest and westernmost island in the Galapagos. It sits across the Bolivar Channel opposite Isabela. Today’s destination is Punta Espinosa, a narrow spit of land in the northeast corner of the island, where a number of unique Galapagos species can be seen in close proximity. As the panga skillfully navigates the reef, penguins show off by throwing themselves from the rocks into the water. Red and turquoise-blue zayapas crabs disperse across the lava shoreline, while great blue and lava herons forage through the mangrove roots. The landing is a dry one, set in a quiet inlet beneath the branches of a small mangrove forest. A short walk through the vegetation leads to a large colony of marine iguanas—a schoolyard of Godzilla’s children—resting atop one another in friendly heaps along the rocky shoreline, spitting water to clear their bodies of salt. Nearby, sea lions frolic in a sheltered lagoon.

Dominating this landscape from high overhead looms the summit of La Cumbre at 4,858 feet, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Farther down this stretch of shore, the world’s only species of flightless cormorants have established a colony near an inviting inlet frequented by sea turtles. Because these birds evolved without land predators—it was easier to feed on the squid, octopus, eel and fish found in the ocean—the cormorants progressively took to the sea. They developed heavier, more powerful legs and feet for kicking, serpent-like necks and fur-like plumage. Their wings are now mere vestiges. Back toward the landing and farther inland, the island’s black lava flows become more evident, forming a quiet, inner mangrove lagoon where rays and sea turtles glide just below the surface. Galapagos hawks survey the entire scene from overhead.

The snorkeling off Punta Espinoza offers some real treats, as many of the creatures on land, including the Godzilla-like marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins and sea lions bask the waters off the point (which was used as a set during the making of Master & Commander). A key feature of the ocean bottom here are the troughs formed by volcanic rock and ocean currents. Because these waters reach out into the Bolivar Channel they can be quite cold. Sea turtles like to hang out in the warm water of the troughs. Marine iguanas ferry back and forth between underwater grazing areas and their colonies on shore. This is an excellent place to see underwater iguanas munching on algae. The fortunate may catch a glimpse of a flightless cormorant demonstrating their swimming abilities or Galapagos penguin zipping by. Feel the difference in ocean temperature and watch the water get clearer as you move from the more protected shallow areas out into the cold rich waters of the channel. The Bolivar Channel is the very best place in the Galapagos to see dolphins and whales. On rare occasion, some may even swim with dolphins, kayak with melon headed whales and even spot the elusive sperm whale.

Make an easy wet landing at Urbina Bay, directly west of Isabela’s Volcano Alcedo. In 1954, a Disney film crew caught sight of this gleaming white strip, and went to investigate. To their astonishment, three miles of the marine reef had been uplifted by as much as 13 feet prior to their arrival. They discovered schools of stranded fish and other creatures in newly formed tidal pools along with the skeletons of sea turtles and sharks unable to make it to the ocean as a result of the uplift event. Alcedo erupted a few weeks later.

Now visitors walk amongst the boulder sized dried coral heads, mollusks and other organisms that once formed the ocean floor. A highlight of this excursion is the giant land iguanas, whose vivid and gaudy yellow skin suggests that dinosaurs may have been very colorful indeed. Giant tortoises inhabit this coastal plain during the wet season, before migrating to the highlands when it turns dry. The landing beach provides a nesting site for sea turtles and also provides opportunities to snorkel amongst marine creatures, or just relax on shore. Take care not to step on the sea turtle nests dug carefully into the sand. For those looking for snorkeling from a beach this is the place, with tropical fish hiding amongst the rocks to the north side of the bay.

This evening the Grace sits at anchor in the Bolivar Channel, spectacularly surrounded by the towering shield volcanoes that form Fernandina and Isabela. Sunset in the channel is also an excellent time to spot whales and dolphins that feed in these productive waters created by the upwelling of the Cromwell Current, while you enjoy a happy hour at the Sky lounge on the upper rear deck.

Continue south along the west coast of Isabela and enter the outer part of Elizabeth Bay, a tall rocky islet is home to a colony of Galapagos penguins. Looming to the south is Sierra Negra volcano that forms the southern part of Isabela Island. In 2018, glowing rivers of lava lit up the night as they flowed down the flank of Sierra Negra toward Elizabeth Bay, where some of lucky passengers had a front row seat on one of the archipelagos most spectacular performances.

In contrast to the rugged lava fields of Sierra Negra, Elizabeth Bay is one of the most sensitive habitats in the Galapagos. This outing is entirely aboard pangas through the tangle of mangroves roots that line the Bay, which tend to still the waters and give the area a green forested look. Spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea turtle glide just below the surface with the latter coming up occasionally to breath. Search for a Galapagos hawk circling high overhead while approaching the back of the Bay. Sealions use the horizontal trunks of the mangroves as resting areas earning them the nickname tree lions.

Return to the Grace for lunch as she cruises farther along the coast of Isabela to Punta Moreno. Don’t be surprised at just how much life is found in and around a pahoehoe lava field. In 2018, Sierra Negra Volcano, which looms over the entire southern part of the island (and really is the southern part of the island) gave the area a fresh coat of glowing lava that reached within 3 miles of this landing site. This is one of the least visited sites in the Galapagos.

Along the shore, look for Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants and a colony of marine iguanas with a reddish tinge that sport the usual mohawk from head to tail. Sally Lightfooted crabs dot the coast and are the color of molten lava. Wear sneakers or hiking shoes today because the trail leads over fields of broken lava (not because of hot lava) and there’s more here than lava lizards and cactus. Crossing the lava sometimes sounds like clinking glass, then come upon little oasis formed by natural pools surrounded by green grasses. These have become home and resting place for a variety of birds including gallinules, pink flamingos, pintail ducks and more.

Continue along the trail to a series of coastal lagoons that provide a surprising oasis of green, including mangrove forests where pelicans nest. Look toward the bottom of the lagoons for resting white-tipped reef sharks, while green sea turtles ply the surface and great blue herons wade the shoreline. The snorkeling off Punta Moreno above a rocky bottom offers a similar assortment including sea turtles, sting ray and sea lions mixed in with bumped head parrot fish, king angel fish and schools of yellow tailed and surgeon Pacific creole fish and much more.

Puerto Villamil has a feeling of standing on the edge of the earth. The tiny fishing village, founded in 1897 by Don Antonio Gíl, is something of a forgotten gem in the islands. It has a population of roughly 2,000 people and is set amidst miles of white sandy beaches that rest at the outer edge of the Sierra Negra Volcano. Buried pirate’s treasure has been unearthed here some years ago in the shadow of a tall coconut palm, thereby giving credence to all the legends of hidden treasure buried beneath palm trees.

Visit Las Tintoreras which showcase colonies of sea lions, Galapagos turtles and iguanas; skates, sharks, penguins, sea cucumbers, urchins and myriad members of the native flora and fauna whose peaceful interactions make one question exactly who’s really watching who. Continue to cuevas del Sucre which are fascinating lava formations, caves and tunnels located at an endemic forest. Before finishing up the morning and navigating in the afternoon, visit a breeding station for the endemic giant tortoise lead by the National Park Service as well as a hyper-saline lagoon frequented by flamingos and other waders and shore birds.

Say goodbye to the Grace and take a 40-minute bus ride early in the morning to visit Los Gemelos. The terrestrial world of the tortoise and underworld of the lava tubes meet at Los Gemelos (the twins).  These two large sinkholes craters were formed by collapsed lava tubes. The contrast between the marine desert coast and verdant Lost World look of the highlands is most striking here and it’s likely to rain even when sun is shining a half an hour away at the coast. Los Gemelos are surrounded by a scalesia forest, endemic to Galapagos and home to many endemic and native species. This is an excellent place to view some of Darwin’s famous finches along with the elusive and dazzling vermillion flycatcher.

After visiting Los Gemelos, continue by bus for another 20 minutes to the Itabaca channel. Cross the channel and take a short bus ride to Baltra’s airport. Almost all flights to the mainland stop in Guayaquil and continue on to Quito so make sure you know where to get off the plane. Say farewell the to Galapagos and begin your journey home or to some other destination like the Ecuadorian Highlands, Amazon or nearby Peru.

Galapagos Cruise Rates & Dates

In addition to the rates and dates listed below, a 15-day Galapagos Grace itinerary is available by combining the ship’s 8-day itineraries. Receive a 10% discount on the second week of cruising. If the 15-day cruise is taken during Christmas, New Year or Easter, full cruise prices will apply. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for more information.

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

Learn About the Galapagos Small Ship on Your Itinerary

The 16-guest motor yacht Grace's stellar past includes ownership by royalty, millionaire tycoons and a stint in the British Navy. She now cruises the Galapagos Islands in luxury.

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

Everything on the Grace was wonderful - guide, staff & crew, food, outings, etc.

The Grace and her crew were everything one could hope for. Both the Grace and Napo Wildlife Center were wonderfully comfortable.

Note that this review also includes comments on the traveler’s pre-cruise trip to  Ecuador  with AdventureSmith Explorations.

Everything on the Grace was wonderful - guide, staff & crew, food, outings, etc.  Mashpi Lodge was also a great experience and very unique place.  For the transfers and city tour in Quito Metropolitan Touring did an excellent job. Only disappointment was that the Grace makes a big deal of marketing the fact that there would be one guide for every 9 guests.  We had 16 people on our trip but only one guide so that did not meet our expectation even though our guide was exceptional. 

The Grace and her crew were everything one could hope for. Only suggestion, a door stop for exterior door of each cabin and hiking sticks with pointed ends for the elderly among us.

Accommodations Review

Both the Grace and Napo Wildlife Center were wonderfully comfortable.

Crew & Guides Review

Our Galapagos guide, Rafael, was incredibly knowledgeable and informative.  He always went the extra mile to insure that each guest had the best possible experience and  I required more attention than most being older and having mobility issues.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Ecuador Amazon Adventure - Napo Wildlife Center
• Napo Wildlife Center

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise

Most Galapagos cruises require travelers to find pre- and post-cruise Guayaquil or Quito hotels. This travel package offers an easy, cost-effective way to get to the Galapagos with a comprehensive land package.

Travel to Peru's most spectacular archaeological monument in South America: the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu. This 5- or 6-day Machu Picchu Explorer adventure includes Cusco, the Urubamba Valley and upscale accommodations.

Spend 4, 5 or 8 days at the Napo Wildlife Center, a luxury eco-hotel and ecotourism project that includes the conservation of approximately over 82 square miles of Ecuador's most pristine Amazon rainforest within Yasunì National Park.

Planning Your Trip to the Galapagos Islands

Book your Galapagos small ship cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations for our broad knowledge of this famed archipelago. Our Adventure Specialists are Galapagos travel experts, savvy on Galapagos travel news and planning tips, and our travelers are extensions of this team, providing further insight to enhance our guests’ experience.

This series of travel guides and journals will help you learn more about the Galapagos Islands and get inspired. We travel to the Galapagos several times each year and update our guides frequently, so consult these posts regularly for the most up-to-date information.

Built in 1928 the Motor Yacht Grace's stellar past includes ownership of royalty, millionaire tycoons and stint in the British Navy. Read her detailed history.

When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Consult this month by month guide for help planning your Galapagos travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, water temperature and the benefits of each month.

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

Trips You Might Also Like

A trip aboard the 32-guest Evolution offers one of the finest Galapagos cruise experiences available. A roomy yacht with a high crew-to-passenger ratio, she has modern amenities, including adventure gear, yet retains the charm of a Roaring Twenties small ship.

The perfect blend of activity and education the 48-guest National Geographic Islander II offers snorkeling, hiking and expert guides and naturalists on this 7- to 12-day Wild Galapagos Escape Cruise.

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

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• Yachts + Ships

The Grace is a luxury yacht with capacity for 18 guests in nine spacious staterooms, five of which have twin beds and four of which have double beds. This intimate and luxurious yacht has a stabilizer system for smooth sailing, a main salon with plush sofas and an entertainment system, and a front sun deck with a hot tub and ample space for sunbathing. Delicious, high-quality cuisine can be enjoyed inside or outside. The Grace is also ideal for private charters for a special shared adventure with family or close friends.

SERVED THE BRITISH ROYAL NAVY DURING WWII

Built in 1928 in Southampton, England, the Grace has been owned by millionaire tycoons and royalty, and even was selected to serve in the British Royal Navy during WWII.

BETTER ACCESS TO HARD TO GET TO COASTAL SPOTS

Due to her smaller size, the Grace is able to visit certain sites in the Galapagos that larger ships are banned from.

IDEAL FOR couples and families – this is the most elegant yacht in the Galapagos with a rich aristocratic history

discover all of our

Day to Day Itinerary

• 8 days Cruise Itinerary 'Darwin's Trail'
• 8 days Cruise Itinerary 'Darwin's Footsteps'
• 15 Days Cruise Itinerary 'Darwin's Muse'

Itinerary Details

Baltra Island Arrival in Baltra airport and transfer to the boat. Briefing onboard about the boat and the island.

Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach A swimming beach and one of the few remnants of the U.S. World War II presence in the Galápagos.

Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip´s Steps An extraordinary, steep path leads through a seabird colony full of life, up to cliffs that are 25m high.

Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay A coral beach where a 750 mt. trail takes you through more seabird colonies.

Santiago Island: James Bay There are many lava pools found here as well as caves and inlets home to an amazing variety of wildlife.

Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach Espumilla Beach is a popular place for marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot Crabs.

Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove Buccaneer Cove is a testament to the fact that Santiago was once a refuge for British buccaneers.

Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point The remnants of an ancient volcano form two turquoise coves with a bay protected from ocean swells.

Isabela Island: Tagus Cove An opportunity to see penguins as well as marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs and sea lions.

Fernandina Island: Espinosa Point A narrow stretch of land where hundreds of marine iguanas gather largely on black lava rocks.

Isabela Island: Urbina Bay Its waters are a good place to see turtles and rays. Ashore you´ll find a short trail leading to a coral reef.

Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay As enter you the bay, hawks can soar overhear and schools of fish can be seen swimming underneath.

Isabela Island: Moreno Point Beautiful rocky shores where penguins and shore birds, including blue herons, are usually spotted.

Isabela Island: Las Tintoreras A short distance from Puerto Villamil is the small island known as Las Tintoreras.

Sucre's Cave

Isabela Island: Tortoise Breeding Station Created to protect animals in their first years of life from the threats of foreign species.

Isabela Island: Wetlands They consist of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves and are home to a variety of unique bird species.

Afternoon Navigation to Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island: Los Gemelos Spanish for The Twins, they are two volcanic depressions on the highest part of Santa Cruz.

Baltra. Transfer to the Airport.

Santa Cruz Island: Highlands The highlands are located in the northern part of the island and can reach elevations up to 1500 mt.

Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Station An organisation that provides scientific assistance to ensure the proper preservation of the Galapagos.

Floreana Island: Asilo de la Paz A hill in the agricultural area of the island. The main attractions are of an historic type.

Floreana Island: Cormorant Point Cormorant Point offers a trail overlooking a saltwater lagoon that is a favourite of flamingos.

Floreana Island: Devil´s Crown Arguably the best snorkeling site in the islands, Devil´s Crown boasts an amazing variety of fish.

Española Island: Suárez Point Suarez Point is one of the most outstanding wildlife areas of the archipelago.

Española Island: Gardner Bay Gardner Bay has a magnificent beach with turquoise waters. The bay is home of a large colony of sea lions.

San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point Here there are endemic species such as lava lizards and red-footed boobies.

San Cristobal Island: Isla Lobos This small island is named after the sea lions that rest and play on its rocky shores.

San Cristobal Island: Leon Dormido This island comprises two rocks which jut out of the ocean and is home to a large colony of sea birds.

Santa Fe Island A volcanic uplift that hosts a forest of Opuntia and palo santo. Endemic land iguanas are often seen.

South Plaza Island South Plaza has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galapagos.

North Seymour Island Explore the rocky coast, passing colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds.

Bartholomew Island Bartholomew is home of the Pinnacle Rock, the most famous view in the Galapagos, and a beautiful white-sanded beach.

Sombrero Chino Island The landing is on a beautiful crescent-shaped beach, home to sea lions and Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill A hypersalinic lagoon frequented by flamingos, stilts, pintail ducks and other species of birds.

Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove This shallow inlet is surrounded by mangroves and provides natural protection for a variety of marine life.

Sucre’s Cave

Afternoon Navigation to Santa Cruz Island.

Ship Details

Technical specifications:.

• Capacity: 18
• Contruction Year: 1928
• Width: 7mts /22.1ft
• Max speed: 12 Knots
• Crew: 10 crew members plus 2 naturalist guides & 1 cruise director.
• Electricity: 110 volts AC / 60 Hz: 2 flat prongs

Facilities:

• Mini library:
• TV in social areas:
• DVD in social areas:
• Satellite phone:

What's included

From our gallery.

Ocean Diamond

Ocean Adventurer

Celebrity Flora

Celebrity Xpedition

Galapagos Evolution

M/Y Passion

Ocean Spray

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Grace: A deluxe luxury motor yacht, one of the finest in the Islands

Days: 8 | From: $9,950/per person

The Grace yacht offers the chance to cruise through the Galapagos on a magnificent and historic vessel that was once a wedding present for Princess Grace of Monaco. With a maximum of 16 passengers, she provides one of the best guide-to-guest ratios in the islands. The guides and cuisine are of the highest quality, and the decks and social areas are spacious and well-appointed. Excursion options include hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking.

• Regular departures throughout the year
• Available for private charter

We tailor itineraries to your dates and interests, adjusting ships, excursions and length as desired.

We consistently receive 5 star reviews from our discerning clients.

Vessel Information

Accommodations.

On the Albert Deck there are 2 full beam master suites (A1 & A4) both with 1 queen bed and 2 suites (A2 & A3) with 2 twin beds that can convert to 1 queen bed. Both of these cabins have windows.

On the Carolina Deck there are 2 premium staterooms (C1 & C2) both with 1 queen bed, 1 premium twin/queen staterooms (C3) with 2 twin beds that can convert to 1 queen bed, and 1 premium full beam stateroom (C5) with a twin bed and a queen bed. All of these cabins have portholes.

On the Monaco Deck there is the Grace Kelly Suite.

All cabins have private bathrooms, individual climate controls, and ample storage space for clothing and luggage. Amenities in the private bathroom include a walk-in shower, vanity, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and hairdryers available.

Yacht Specifications

Construction: completed in 1928, retrofitted in 2007, last renovation in 2018 Type: Motor Yacht / Expeditions Vessel Length: 145 ft. / 44 mts. Beam: 22 ft. / 7 mts. Engines: 8 cylinder - Twin Deutz - 500 bhp ea. Cruising speed: 12 knots Accommodations: 9 cabins Crew: 9 crew members plus 2 naturalist guides (on a full ship) & 1 cruise director Electricity: 110 volts AC / 60 Hz: 2 flat prongs Amenities: Air Renewal System, Air conditioning throughout, TV/CD/VHS/DVD , boutique, Jacuzzi Communications Equipment: UHF, VHF radio, Satellite Phones

Itineraries & Pricing

Beyond darwin's footsteps (8 days).

Tuesday Arrive to Baltra / Santa Cruz Highlands

Wednesday Floreana: Post Office Bay / Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

Thursday Española: Punta Suarez / Gardner Bay

Friday San Cristobal: Punta Pitt / Lobos Island / Kicker Rock

Saturday Santa Fe / South Plaza

Sunday North Seymour / Bartolome

Monday Chines Hat / Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz)

Tuesday Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) / Return to Mainland

Following in Darwin's Footsteps (8 days)

Tuesday Arrive to Baltra / Bachas Beach (Santa Cruz)

Wednesday Genovesa: Prince Philips Steps / Darwin Bay

Thursday Santiago: James Bay / Espumilla Beach / Buccaneer’s Cove

Friday Isabela: Punta Vicente Roca / Tagus Cove

Saturday Espinosa Point (Fernandina) / Urbina Bay (Isabela)

Sunday Isabela: Elizabeth Bay / Punta Moreno

Monday Las Tintoreras, Sucre’s Cave, Breeding Center & Wetlands (Isabela) / cruise to Santa Cruz

Tuesday Los Gemelos (Santa Cruz) / Return to Mainland

(800) 342-1796

Displayed itineraries are just summaries. Our travel specialists will help you select the best cruise based on your interests, timing and budget.

Trip length: 8 days, every Saturday to Saturday

Max number of passengers: 16, 9 cabins

Prices 2024:

Included: All meals, guides & activities, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks, water, coffee, tea, and select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate

Not included: Park fees (about $220 per person), Galapagos airfare (about $600 per person), holiday surcharge, gratuities, and premium brands of wines, beer, or spirits

Grace Kelly Suite: $12,650 – $15,350 per person

Master Suites A1 & A4: $11,350 – $13,800 per person

Suites A2 & A3: $10,450 – $12,700 per person

Premium Staterooms C1, C2, C3, & C5: $9,950 – $12,100

Children 15 years and under receive a 15% discount (maximum of 3 children discounts per family, not available during Christmas and New Year departures)

Single Supplement 75% (suites, normal departure), 50% (staterooms, normal departure), 100% (Christmas and New Year departures)

Charters: from $172,200

Reviews from this trip

Our week-long cruise on board the Grace in the Galapagos was the trip of a lifetime. From the moment we landed in San Cristobal until the moment we were dropped off at Baltra, our trip was comfortable, exciting, and magical.

We loved our guides, the trip on the Grace exceeded expectations.

The crew was extraordinary -- the rooms were spotless and comfortable, the food was excellent (I am a vegetarian, and the cook provided me with tasty and healthy meals each day), and the service was impeccable. We were literally treated like family.

One of the best trips we've ever experienced. We feel we had the best ship in the islands: The Grace. Her crew was very personable and provided excellent service. The Grace is a beautiful ship and well maintained. The food was not exceptional but good. We highly recommended this trip for anyone with a specific interest in the uniqueness of The Galapagos Islands.

Call us to start planning your journey today:

1 (510) 548-8487

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Quasar Grace Yacht Deck Plans & Reviews

Quasar Grace Yacht

Activities & entertainment

• Interior Lounge
• Al Fresco Lounge
• Stern Resting Area
• Deck Parties
• Scuba Diving *
• Animal Watching
• Live Entertainment
• Enrichment Lectures
• Wi-Fi Internet Access
• Al Fresco Dining - Al Fresco
• Al Fresco Bar - Al Fresco Bar
• Inside Bar - Inside Bar
• Coffee Station - Coffee and Snack Bar
• Excellent 9
• Very Good 0
• All languages ( 9 )
• English ( 9 )

Galapagos Grace Circumnavigation

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• View Kicker Rock, a formation rising 152 meters out of the Pacific
• Enjoy snorkeling with sea lions off Gardner Island
• Drop off a card in Post Office Bay and grab another to mail back at home
• Walk up the beach of Darwin Bay and see great frigate birds
• Wildlife Viewing
• Small Ship Cruises
• Whale Watching
• South America
• Charles Darwin Center
• North Seymour
• San Cristobal
• South Plaza Island
• Bachas Beach
• Black Turtle Cove

Full Itinerary

Day 1: baltra | embark | highlands | puerto ayora and darwin station, day 2: peace asylum | cormorant point & devil’s crown.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Punta Suarez | Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet

Day 4: punta pitt | lobos island & kicker rock, day 5: santa fe island | south plazas, day 6: north seymour island | bartolomé island, day 7: chinese hat islet | dragon hill, day 8: black turtle cove | bachas beach, day 9: prince phillip’s steps | darwin bay beach, day 10: james bay | espumilla beach & buccaneer’s cove, day 11: punta vicente roca | tagus cove, day 12: espinosa point | urbina bay, day 13: elizabeth bay | punta moreno, day 14: las tintoreras, sucre’s cave, breeding center & wetlands, day 15: los gemelos | disembark | baltra.

• 1 Breakfast

Dates & Prices

My preferred start date, child discount.

Initial deposit is $900, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 75 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Quasar - General Terms & Conditions - Ecuador & Galapagos Tripplanners (EGT)

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 14 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 14 Dinners
• 14 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Bilingual Naturalist Guide 
•  Snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and kayaks are all included in the cruise cost and are available for you use on board.
• Adventure Life Pre-departure Services and In-Country Assistance (Quito Representative)
• Shore Excursions, Swimming and Snorkeling 
• Transfers and Baggage Handling in the Galapagos
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Galapagos Park Entrance Fee: $ 200 per adult, $ 100 per child under 12 (fees of $ 100 per adult and $ 50 per child valid on  arrivals through   Aug 1, 2024) . Payable upon arrival to the Galapagos, only in cash dollars. Subject to increase by Galapagos Park Service.
• Internal Flights: Mainland Ecuador - Galapagos - Mainland Ecuador: $ 475 -675
• Fuel Surcharge - to be invoiced separately
• Fuel Surcharge

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Grace Cruise Ship, Galapagos

• 9.6 Exceptional 2 Verified Reviews
• from ₽ 79,767 / day

Excellent boat comfort “Great snorkeling and seeing all the animals up close, great explanations and info sharing by the enthusiastic naturalists, ” Arnold Alexander V, Netherlands

• Follow Darwin's path
• Grace Kelly's honeymoon yacht
• Jacuzzi on board

Set sail around the spectacular Galapagos in style aboard the exquisite M.Y. Grace, with two different seven-night cruises to choose between. Join the “Following in Darwin’s Footsteps” trip from Baltra Island, visiting Santa Fe Island, Tower Island, Darwin Bay, Isabela Island, Santiago Island, and Santa Cruz, before finishing on the island of San Cristobal. Alternatively, sail from San Cristobal to Baltra Island on the “Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps” voyage. Highlights include Española Island, Santa Cruz, Floreana Island, Rabida Island, North Seymour Island, and Black Turtle Cove. Activities on each adventure include snorkeling, kayaking, riding in Zodiac boats, and hiking, and you can be fascinated by an abundance of wildlife in one of the world’s most unique places.

Originally built in the late 1920s in Southampton, England, the M/Y Grace has a long and interesting heritage. She has had several names since being built, was used by the British during the war, and has undergone many changes since her early years. Offering luxury Galapagos small ship cruises today, visitors can enjoy timeless elegance and excellent onboard comfort and safety features. Indeed, the yacht hosted Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer of Monaco on their honeymoon! The original wheel from 1927 takes pride of place on the stern. There are nine stylish en suite cabins, each with air conditioning and a window or port hole. Enjoy a tasty buffet for breakfast and lunch, with dinner served indoors or outdoors. A well-stocked wine cellar ensures you never need to feel thirsty! Common areas include a beautiful sun deck, an attractive stern rest area, a Jacuzzi, an outdoor lounge and bar, and an indoor lounge. Onboard naturalists help you fully appreciate your surroundings and the wildlife you will see, and daily briefings are ideal for learning more about the wonders of the Galapagos.

The helpful crew members and experienced naturalists are waiting to welcome you aboard the MY Grace warmly. Book online to guarantee your departure dates on the trip of a lifetime around the magical Galapagos.

Choose your departure date adventure cruise | snorkelling only

Included: VAT, National Park Fees, Port Fees, Airport Transfer, Alcoholic Beverages, Alcoholic Drinks at Dinner, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Wine with Dinner, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear, Snorkeling Guide, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels, WiFi internet.

Optional Extras: Travel Insurance, Gratuities, Hotel Transfer, Local Flights.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

Pay by bank transfer or online with Best Price Guaranteed

Boat features

• Daily housekeeping
• Audio & video entertainment
• Air Conditioned saloon
• Aircon Cabins
• Indoor Saloon
• Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly
• Warm Water Showers
• Outdoor Dining
• En-Suite bathrooms
• Non-Smoking Rooms
• Seaview Cabins
• Kayaks On-Board
• Snorkeling Equipment
• Separate Rinse for u/w Camera
• Dedicated Local & International Crew
• Naturalist Guide
• Leisure Deck
• Observation Deck
• Family Friendly Cruise
• Jacuzzi / Hot Tub

Food & Drinks

• Western Food
• Vegetarian Options
• Buffet style
• Beer available
• Snacks All Day
• Vegan Options
• Fine Wines Selection
• Free Soft Drinks
• Fine Cuisine
• Welcome Cocktails
• Full-board Option
• Al Fresco Dining

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English and Spanish.

Gear Rental

There is equipment available to rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. You will need to pay for the rental gear on board of the boat. Show prices .

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Accommodation.

Master Suite (A1 & A4)

Suite (A2 & A3)

Premium Stateroom (C1, C2, C5)

Premium Stateroom (C3)

Grace Kelly Suite

Boat specifications.

• Length 44m/145ft
• Beam 7m/22ft
• Cruising speed 10-12 Knots
• Engines 8 cylinder - Twin Deutz - 500 bhp ea.
• Max guests 16
• Number of cabins 9
• Number of bathrooms 9
• Tenders 2 dingies (pangas/zodiacs) for 12 pax each

Boat Navigation and Safety

• Depth Sounder
• Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
• E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
• Emergency Rafts
• Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
• First Aid Kits
• Satellite & mobile phones
• Bilge pump alarm
• Search light
• Crew trained in first aid
• Emergency flares

Grace Reviews

• 9.6 Exceptional
• 2 Verified Reviews
• Vessel 10.0
• Activities 10.0
• Arnold Alexander V

No better way to see the Galapagos

Great snorkeling and seeing all the animals up close, great explanations and info sharing by the enthusiastic naturalists,

Gran experiencia

El contacto con la fauna

We’re here to help, 24/7.

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There is equipment available to rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. You will need to pay for the rental gear on board of the boat.

• Snorkel Gear Included
• Wetsuit Included

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• 1 double bed
• Aircon with control
• Ensuite Bathroom
• Max 2 guests

There are 2 full beam master suites (A1 & A4) on the Albert Deck, both with 1 queen bed, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have windows.

• 1 double or 2 single beds (amenable twin)

There are 2 suites (A2 & A3) on the Albert Deck, both with 2 twin beds that can convert to 1 queen bed, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have windows.

• 13 - 18 sq/m

There are 2 premium staterooms (C1 & C2), both with 1 queen bed, and one premium stateroom (C5) with a twin bed and a queen bed all located on the Carolina Deck. Each cabin has private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. These cabins have portholes.

Premium twin/queen stateroom (C3) located on the Carolina Deck. Features 2 twin beds that can convert to 1 queen bed, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. Telephones are also available for internal communications only. This cabin has portholes.

• Shared Bathroom

Located on the main deck the Grace Kelly Suite with 1 king bed, private bathrooms, individual AC controls, safe boxes, and plenty of storage space for clothing and luggage. These cabins have windows.

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Southern Explorations

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This trip is rated: moderate, how we rate our trips.

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Most Popular Galapagos Islands Trips & Tours

The great weather of the Galapagos Islands makes them a fantastic destination for travel year-round. Every month of the year is a good time to enjoy a tour of the region. The Galapagos Islands have a subtropical climate that is almost completely determined by sea currents. Although most believe the Galapagos to be a very hot destination, the cool water currents in the area keep the climate more temperate year-round. The islands’ equatorial location ensures twelve hours of sunlight daily, all year long. The mild variations in weather from month to month result in an overall climate of warm days, cool nights and low humidity. Anytime is a great time to travel to the Galapagos; while visiting one can expect to see plenty of sunshine, blue skies and a possible chance of light rain. There are two seasons in the Galapagos:

• The hot or rainy season arrives with the coming of the warm Panama current. The warmest months are December through June with temperatures ranging from 72-90°F (22-32°C), with February and March being the hottest and sunniest. The sea is at its warmest (in the 70°F range) and tends to be calmer during this time. Although the islands receive slightly more rainfall during these months, most of the lower elevations remain quite arid. Expect blue skies and sunshine and with a chance of short afternoon showers.
• July through November is the dry or garua season, which begins with the arrival of cold ocean currents. One can expect cooler temperatures and a light mist in the morning during these months. The skies are also a bit cloudier and air temperatures a bit cooler, in the range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). The garua is a mist that forms in the highlands, providing moisture and usually tapering off by midday, leaving skies slightly overcast or sunny for the afternoon. The air temperature can be slightly lower, but the Equator is still a warm place to visit. During this time of year a cold ocean current from the south, called the Antarctic Humboldt current, causes the water temperature to drop slightly, ranging from 60°F- 72°F (15-22°C).

Within both seasons, there are other variants, like altitude, that affect the weather. The lowest point of elevation is sea level and the highest is Wolf Volcano, Isabela Island (5,600ft or 1,710m). There are seven vegetation zones ranging from arid coastal zones to evergreen cloud forests to treeless shrubless pampa zones, all of which are affected by moisture levels, temperature and sunlight. During the garua season, the coast is very dry while the highlands are much wetter. The hot season may or may not have a rainy period which normally lasts four to six weeks, or in the event of El Nino, a longer period. During the hot season, the coastal zones remain arid. Prevailing winds from the southeast keep the southern sides of the major islands much moister then the northern sides, which fall into a rain shadow resulting in the arid zones reaching a much higher elevation. The months of May and December are changeover periods and weather and sea temperatures in these months tend to vary from year to year depending on the change in the water currents. Occasionally, one will feel humidity, predominantly on the south side of major islands. Compared to the humidity levels in the Amazon or the US South, the humidity in the Galapagos is very low and will not disturb activities. Snorkeling is an activity offered on all Galapagos trips. Wetsuits, available onboard most cruises and for all land tours, are recommended June through November. Though sea temperatures vary significantly from island to island, generally all travelers will use a wetsuit during this time. Snorkeling in shallow waters offshore or in protective coves tends to be warmer. Waters to the north, near Genovesa are warmed by the Panama Current, whereas snorkeling off the western island of Isabela is always chilly due to the cold Cromwell undercurrent. The Humboldt Current, or the South Equatorial Current, brings cold sub-Antarctic water that flows through the archipelago eight or nine months a year keeping sea temperatures low. One will experience a variance in sea temperatures while snorkeling on any trip during any time of the year. During the hot season, travelers tend to spend more time in the water, especially at midday when the temperatures are the hottest and wildlife is less active. Snorkeling is an optional activity and those who are not interested in snorkeling have other options. Sea Conditions are a concern of many cruise travelers. All Galapagos vessels are small; the largest accommodates only 100 passengers. Naturally, some movement will be felt on all vessels regardless of the time of year or the size of the vessel. The seas around the Galapagos are generally shallow and despite being the crossroads of several currents, the waters are not terribly rough. The seas are at their calmest January through April. December, May and June are transitional months during which one will experience relatively calm seas, though it varies year to year depending on the shift in the currents. July through November, one will find choppier seas, with August through October being the roughest. Certain vessels are more stable than others and cabin location can also help avoid seasickness. Most travel is done at night while passengers are sleeping with the only exception being the short midday transit (two hours or less). During the day, vessels dock in calm waters near shore. Passengers spend most of the day on land or snorkeling. These factors lessen the risk of seasickness. We recommend that you bring over-the-counter or prescription motion sickness medication, though many cruisers discover that the seas are much calmer than anticipated. If you are concerned about motion sickness, please contact us for more details on how to select the right vessel for you.  

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches  

10 Day 1 (Fri - Sun)

This vessel's pricing varies depending on travel dates. Please contact us for the most uo-to-date pricing. Galapagos Airfare:$560 Entrance to Galapagos to National Park ($100 Adult / $50 Child) Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20) A single supplement applies to single travelers in a private cabin. Surcharge applies for holiday departures.

• 2 nights' accommodations in Quito or Guayaquil
• All meals on Galapagos cruise
• Galapagos cruise
• Local Quito or Guayaquil representative
• Naturalist guide while on cruise
• Paddling gear
• Snorkeling gear
• All airport/hotel transfers
• English-speaking certified guides
• Southern Explorations pre-departure services
• International airfare to and from Central & South America
• Tips and gratuities
• Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Domestic airfare to and from Galapagos Islands
• Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100 Adult/$50 Child)
• Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20)
• Bar tab on cruise
• Hiking boots and other necessary sports gear

10 Day 2 (Fri - Sun)

This vessel's pricing varies depending on travel dates. Please contact us for the most uo-to-date pricing. Galapagos Airfare:$560 Entrance to Galapagos to National Park ($100 Adult / $50 Child) Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20) A single supplement applies to single travelers in a private cabin. Surcharge applies for holiday departures

Albert Deck: All cabins have picture windows Master Suites (A1, A4): Matrimonial bed, average size: 180 sq ft. Twin Suites (A2, A3): Convertible beds, average size: 138 sq ft. Monaco Deck: Picture windows Grace Kelly Suite: Matrimonial bed, average size: 183 sq ft. Carolina Deck: All cabins have portholes Queen Premium Staterooms (C1, C2): Matrimonial bed, average size 152 sq ft. Twin/Queen Premium Staterooms (C3): Convertible bed, average size 140 st ft. Premium Stateroom (C5): One twin bed and one matrimonial bed, size 148 sq ft.

• Public Spaces: Inside and al fresco dining areas, sun deck, library, bar-salon
• Special Features: kayaks, Jacuzzi
• Builder: Camper & Nicholson
• Place of Origin: Southampton, England
• Refitted: Guayaquil, Ecuador 2007-2008
• Type: Motor Yacht
• Length Overall: 44 meters (145 feet)
• Beam: 7 meters (23 feet)
• Draft: 2.5 meters (8.2 feet)
• Gross Tonnage: 298
• Speed: 12 knots
• Engines: Twin Deutz (650 BHP each)
• Generators: 2 x 35 KVA New Age / Cummins
• Electricity: 110 volts AC / 60 Hz
• Crew: 10 plus up to 2 naturalist guides & 1 cruise director.
• Navigation Equipment: 24 mile Furuno radar. 24 mile Si-tex radar, GPS Satellite Navigator, depthfinders, speed and distance log, compasses, barometer, forward looking echo sounder.
• Safety Equipment: EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), 2 x 12 person Vicking open sea life rafts, life jackets, flares and signals, fire extinguishing system. In short, safety equipment on board either meets or exceeds USA Coast Guard Regulations.
• Comfort Equipment: 800 gal/day watermaker, air-conditioning throughout, icemaker, stereo, TV, VCR, DVD
• Communication Equipment:  VHF radio, SSB radio, Satellite Phone

The overall holiday was excellent. The Southern Explorations element was fantastic and the Eclipse could not be faulted, except I ate far too much!  - Natasha Rowlands, UK (Galapagos Island Cruise)

I was very impressed with the organization of our trip.  Everything Southern Explorations was responsible for went smoothly and everything was on schedule.  The Manatee on the Amazon had some initial trouble but it could not have been known or anticipated by SE.  Once again I would like to compliment Jorge on his work.  He made our comings and goings to and from Quito very easy.  If I go to South America again my first call will be to Southern Explorations. Thank you. - Peter Tuck, CA (Corals & Manatee)

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From: US$9,950 (8D/7N)

GRACE MOTOR YACHT

M/Y Grace abides under all international standards of safety for a Galapagos cruise ship of its type. It is ISM (International Safety Management) certified and is equipped with an emergency alarm system, 3 emergency life rafts for 26 pax each, emergency life vests, fog horns, a PA system, smoke detectors, a sprinkler system and fire extinguishers. All emergency equipment is SOLAS certified. The yacht also carries 2 dingies (pangas/zodiacs) for 12 pax each for day to day activities.

Key Features:

• Spacious Sundeck
• Large Suites
• main saloon

Gallery | Prices | Itineraries | Other Motor Yachts

Overall Rating 4.2      

What is this?

• Accom.: 4.0
• Itinerary: 4.2
• Service: 4.5

Prices from: US$ 9,950 (8D/7N)

Grace promotions & last minute deals.

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GRACE RATES

• For the latest promotions on this boat and others, please click here .
• Prices are per person in United States Dollars.
• Prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Additional Information

• 15% discount off the above rates (cruise only) for children 15 years and younger. Maximum of 3 children discounts per family, per booking. (Discounts do not apply for Christmas and New Year's cruises.)
• 75% Supplement surcharge for Single travelers on suites. 50% Single Supplement surcharge applies to all other staterooms.
• 100% Single Supplement applies to all staterooms for Christmas and New Year’s cruises.

Rates Include

• Expert guidance and service from your own personal Expedition Designer
• Comprehensive pre-and post-cruise information material
• Daily served meals or buffet offering a wide choice of dishes
• Naturalist guides & activities throughout the cruise
• All transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos
• Select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise
• Lectures and entertainment onboard
• Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels & fins) and wetsuits (3mm long wetsuit)
• Kayaks and equipment
• Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($100 USD adults / $50 USD children) *
• Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20 USD per person) *
• Internet / Wi-Fi connection throughout the cruise (within limited schedule) **

Not Included

• Flights, accommodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary
• International air tickets to either Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador
• Gratuities to guides, crew and staff
• Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
• Trip insurance and medical evacuation insurance
• Personal travel insurance
• Premium brands of wines, beer or spirits
• Mainland Ecuador arrangements (we’d be delighted to arrange these for you)
• Galapagos flights for your requested dates (Guayaquil-Galapagos-Guayaquil $473 USD adults/ $360 USD children or Quito-Galapagos-Quito $530 USD adults/children $404 USD)

GRACE DECK PLANS

GRACE ITINERARIES

Please note: Itineraries are unlikely to change significantly but are subject to change. Weather, wildlife breeding, instructions from the Galapagos National Park, specific abilities and interests of passengers as well as operational matters may cause your guide or captain to change the time or nature of visits. Your guide will always endeavor to select the best itinerary within these limits....

GRACE CRUISE REVIEWS

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GalapagosIslands.com - Visitor Point

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Grace Galapagos Cruise

Tour Summary

Grace Galapagos Cruise is a classic, historic yacht that has been completely rebuilt with features ideally suited to the Galapagos Islands.

Since her royal beginnings, our award-winning Grace Galapagos Cruise has been renewed from bow to stern. It continues to be updated with features that make her the perfect home away from home in the Galapagos. Refined, yet adventurous and agile, it’s no wonder Princess Grace Kelly selected this ship for her honeymoon.

Guests who cruise aboard the new yacht will experience the Islands the way Darwin did in the past: personally and privately, but with the added distinction, comfort, and elegance of today. This luxurious 16-Guest yacht offers expanded deck space, stabilizers for smooth cruising, naturalist guides with 15+ years of experience, and itineraries crafted for maximum wildlife encounters. Welcome aboard Grace for the journey of a lifetime, enjoying the Galapagos luxury experience .

A cruise is the best way to discover the  Galapagos Islands . Explore the islands aboard these beautiful  Galapagos cruises . And don’t forget to check out our  Galapagos Last Minute Cruise Deals !

General information

Baltra is one of the gateways to the Galapagos Islands where Seymour Airport is located, also known as Baltra Airport. This small island is also known by the local name of South Seymour. Highlands. Reached by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green contrasting beautifully with much of the dry, lower islands. The dominant vegetation in the highlands is the forest of Scalesia trees creating the lush green color.

Post Office Bay Galapagos is a place where old-school communications rules and age-old traditions still mean something. For Galapagos visitors, Post Office Bay is a wonderful glimpse into the human history of the Galapagos islands, and a chance to join in the fun for yourselves. Devil’s Crown is an old eroded, semi-submerged, volcanic cone where you can spot penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, dolphins, and colorful fish. It`s one of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos because of the coral reef in the middle which is a perfect attraction for marine life.

Punta Suarez can easily count as one of the most coveted visitor sites of the Galapagos. This visitor site is located on the western point of Española Island (hence the name) and consists of a trail of about 4 km (2 miles) in length. Gardner Bay is located on the east coast of the Spanish Island in the Galapagos Archipelago. It is a white coral beach full of sea lions, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, as well as can be seen several marine species in the Galapagos. The white sand and calm of its clear waters invite relaxation.

Located on the easternmost side of San Cristobal Island and forming the northeast point of the island, Punta Pitt is a tuff formation that serves as a nesting site for many sea birds. Thanks to its geographical location Punta Pitt is one of the few places in the Galapagos Islands where you can find all three species of booby and the two species of the frigate. One of the most sought-after sites in Galapagos, Kicker Rock, also known as León Dormido, is the remains of a volcanic cone, eroded by the sea across hundredths of years. It is the eroded cone of an extinct volcano in the shape of a sleeping lion that earned it the name, Leon Dormido.

Santa Fe Island is one of the oldest in the Galapagos Islands archipelago. It is thought to be at least four million years old. The island is also sometimes known as Barrington Island and it was named after an admiral called Samuel Barrington. Plazas Sur is a small uplifted island close to the east coast of Santa Cruz. It can be gloriously colorful from May to December with leaves of the endemic Succulent Sesuvium Edmonstonei, or Galapagos carpetweed as it´s commonly known, turning bright red.

This small island is one of the most important fishing sites for Marine Birds. This place is the reason for many travelers and ornithologists to observe the spectacular and diverse amount of birds of the Galapagos. The visit site is located next to the nesting area of Frigate Birds, both Magnificent and Common, that rest on the trees throughout the whole year. The most iconic place in the Galapagos. Located at the center of the archipelago, Bartolome is one of the most frequently visited sites of all the islands. The highest point is only 374 ft (114 m) above sea level and it is separated from the island of Santiago by Sullivan Bay.

Like most of the Galapagos, Sombrero Chino is volcanic in origin. Ages ago, the volcano on nearby Santiago Island erupted, spewing rocks and forming what is known as a “spatter cone.” It’s essentially a mountain made of lava and rocks from an erupting volcano. There is more to Dragon Hill than dragons. The trail, one of the longest in Galapagos, wends its way through a desert-like landscape, passing through forests of cacti and fragrant Palo Santo trees. The hill itself is an impressive sight, a rugged spire that dominates the landscape around it.

Found on the northern shores of Santa Cruz, Black Turtle Cove is a mangrove-lined inlet accessible only by panga or dinghy. It’s a popular destination site for sea turtles, golden and spotted eagle rays, and black-tip and white-tip reef sharks—in particular the young marine life. Baltra is one of the gateways to the Galapagos Islands where Seymour Airport is located, also known as Baltra Airport. This small island is also known by the local name of South Seymour.

Baltra is one of the gateways to the Galapagos Islands where Seymour Airport is located, also known as Baltra Airport. This small island is also known by the local name of South Seymour. This beach is covered in white coral sand, and it’s a major nesting site for Galápagos green turtles. There’s also a lagoon just behind the sand which often hosts flamingos, ducks, and migratory birds. You can also often find marine iguanas feeding on the rocky outcrops near the tide line.

Prince Philip’s Steps is an extraordinary steep path that leads through a seabird colony full of life, up to cliffs that are 25 meters (82 feet) high. At the top, the trail continues inland, passing more seabird colonies in a thin palo santo forest. The trail also provides overviews of a rocky plain. Darwin Bay is formed by a crater, is almost a perfect circle. Located on Genovesa Island, north of the Galapagos Archipelago. Darwin Bay, a place of anchorage, was once a crater that collapsed.

This is a pretty beach that is fringed with lush green forests. The beach itself is home to marine iguanas who feed among the rocks at either end of the beach, and it is a good place to snorkel, with visitors often reporting sightings of sharks, rays, and octopuses. Espumilla beach is a white-sandy front located in James Bay very popular among visitors. Espumilla is a typical Ecuadorian dessert made of fruit and eggs whose consistency is very similar to a foamy dessert which can also describe the foamy waves of this site.

Vicente Roca Point has great deep-water snorkeling at one of the richest marine havens on Earth (Bolivar Channel). We take a dinghy ride along the coast to observe a great diversity of sea and coastal birds; Nazca and blue-footed boobies, noddies, brown pelicans, penguins, flightless cormorants. Tagus Cove is a sheltered deep-water bay on the western coast of Isabela Island, overlooking Fernandina Island. This natural anchorage has been a popular destination for ships since the 1800s, and when you come ashore you can see ancient graffiti left by whalers and buccaneers.

The flat jet-black lava of Espinosa Point is a defining feature of its stark and barren landscape. It is also home to the largest colony of endemic and lovely marine iguanas. Other features are lava cacti, black, white, and red mangrove, Sally light-footed crabs, Galapagos hawks, and sea turtles. West of Isabela Island, Urbina Bay is located; it is a fascinating area that shows a large coral reef that sticks up above sea level. Urbina Bay has a wide variety of gorgeous plant life which changes depending on the season.

Elizabeth Bay Galapagos is a site that is found on the east coast of the island. It is comprised of the bay itself, as well as various islets. The site is interesting to look at, as its shore mangrove vegetation gives way to lava fields behind it. Punta Moreno is located on the north coast of Isabela Island between the volcano Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul volcano. The distance of the trail is about 2100 meters and runs along with an imponent lava flow Pahohoe (solidified lava in the form of corrugated or an accordion) into a complex of coastal lagoons.

The Cove of Sucre is one natural lava tunnel that leads us to know the depths of a volcanic island, the same is accessed through an amazing ecotourism trail built entirely of volcanic materials. Santa Cruz has the longest paved road in Galapagos, which runs north-south across the island, taking people from the airport ferry at Itabaca Canal on the north coast into the highlands and through a few smaller towns on its way down to Puerto Ayora, the island’s largest city located on the southern coast of the island in Academy Bay.

Often mistaken for volcanic craters, Los Gemelos – or “The Twins” in English – are actually sinkholes. When the volcanoes on the islands were still active, lava flows would roll down the hills to get to the sea. Lava, being a liquid, behaves like one as well. Baltra is one of the gateways to the Galapagos Islands where Seymour Airport is located, also known as Baltra Airport. This small island is also known by the local name of South Seymour. During World War II, it was a US Airforce base positioned to patrol the Eastern Pacific and to protect the Panama Channel.

LIVE GRACE GALAPAGOS CRUISES AVAILABILITY

+ Flights from/to Galapagos (we can also arrange the flights for you) + Galapagos National Park entrance fee: $100 p.p. + Migratory Control Card: $20 p.p. + Isabela dock fee $10 p.p. (if the itinerary includes Isabela island) + Transportation between Baltra Airport – cruise terminal fee ($5 p.p.) each way + Water taxis (from and to the shore) + Alcoholic drinks + Personal expenses + Optional tips for the guide + Personal travel insurance  

Additional information

• It is suggested to have current travel insurance including personal medical insurance and Covid-19 Coverage. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
• Rebecca Adventure Travel and the respective cruise operator reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions,  availabilities, National Park regulations or notifications, and unforeseeable circumstances.
• It is recommended to arrive at the cities of Quito or Guayaquil, at least 24 hours before the flight to the Galapagos Islands, to avoid inconveniences with flight delays. Cruise departures have fixed schedules and extra fees may occur for reaching the cruise on another day.
• All cruises are subject to availability. Cruises have fixed departures so, before booking the cruise and flight tickets, please check dates and itineraries with us. Since The Galapagos is a destination in high demand, the availability changes every day. Rebecca Adventure Travel will try to fix your dates with the options we have available during the time of booking.
• Keep in mind that some cruises are required to arrange the flight tickets directly with them, otherwise they will charge an extra fee. Please check with us and we will share the complete information before proceeding with your flight tickets arrangement.

ADVANTAGES OF BOOKING WITH REBECCA ADVENTURE TRAVEL

• Authenticity: An important focus of the tours is that Rebecca Adventure Travel offers unique and authentic experiences. All tours are personally selected by Rebecca , which will be the guarantee for authentic (preferably family-owned) hotels, high-quality tours, great service, and last but not least, value for money.
• Tailor-made design : Whether travelers like to do a Galapagos Island Hopping, a cruise, or a tailor-made tour through Ecuador, the local and international destination experts use their own travel experiences to create the right travel plan for every traveler.
• Safety & 24/7 assistance: Rebecca Adventure Travel possesses all official tour operating insurances up to 3 million EUR. The team can be reached 24/7 for emergencies, by phone, e-mail, Skype, and Whatsapp. This service is available in English, Spanish, and Dutch!
• Face-to-face assistance throughout the travel journey : Although online contact is essential, personal service is very important too. Travelers can get face-to-face travel advice in the Travel Concept Store in Zutphen (The Netherlands). During the trip, there will be local personal hostesses on the different destinations e.g. on the Galapagos Islands.
• 0% Credit card fee:  For guests who book a cruise with Rebecca Adventure Travel, there is no extra charge for the credit card payment.

When you book a tour with Rebecca Adventure Travel you agree to our  terms and conditions

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Grace Galápagos Cruise

A small piece of history on this beautiful cruise ship, a galápagos cruise on board the grace.

• A vintage ship steeped in history
• Walk the same decks as Grace Kelly once did!
• Wonderful food and service
• Superb wildlife itineraries

Built as a luxury plaything for the super-rich in the 1920s, used by the British as part of the war effort in the 1940s, bought by the world's most famous shipping magnate in the 1950s, host to Winston Churchill twice, then given as a wedding gift to the most glamorous couple of the century who honeymooned on board. This boat truly is a remarkable slice of history. Acquired by the current owners in 2007, they then spent 2 years completely refurbishing her into what is now the most beautiful and elegant way to see the wonders of Galápagos.

Timeless luxury As befits the boat that was owned and honeymooned on by Prince Rainier and Princess Grace (Kelly) of Monaco, Motor Yacht Grace is simply stunning.

For the ultimate Galápagos experience of a lifetime for that special occasion, why not book the Grace Kelly Suite? Featuring decor by award-winning designer Adriana Hoyos, the suite is the exact same location where Grace Kelly's suite was located in the 1950's. This is the most spacious accommodation in the yacht and features sumptuous fitting and the latest mood lighting to enable you to set your perfect ambiance.

Two further master suites are available, each with queen bed, gorgeous teak decking, and wonderful panoramic windows. There are also twin suites, and premium twin staterooms available. All accommodation is decorated and furnished to the highest standards, with plenty of storage, luxury cosmetics, and individual air conditioning for your comfort.

Relax in oppulance With a maximum of only 18 guests on board at any time, the Grace delivers a truly boutique experience. Her public areas are just as stunning as her staterooms, and feature original features restored to the highest standards. On the stern resting deck you will even see the original brass ship's wheel from 1927, inscribed with the yacht's original name.

The main saloon features period-style luxury leather seating and hand-crafted wooden fittings, delivering perfectly that bygone feeling and offering a cozy and snug place to relax, and to listen to the briefings delivered by your bilingual naturalist guides.

The outside saloon is the perfect place to enjoy the sea breeze and sip cocktails from its bar at the end of a busy day exploring all that Galápagos has to offer. If you need to soak up some of the equatorial sun then the upper sun lounge is the perfect place to unwind.

Fine dining Al Fresco Grace features an Al Fresco dining room at the stern of the vessel which offers simply the best view with dinner in the Galápagos! Reviews of a cruise on Grace consistently rate the dining experience as one of the best in the fleet. Her chefs are among the best in the islands, and the variety and quality of the cuisine is astonishing.

For guests with specific dietary restrictions, allergies or any other requirements, just make sure to advise your Galápagos expert when you call us and we will make sure that the Grace caters to your every need, ensuring you of a true luxury experience that meets your requirements perfectly.

An intimate view of the Galápagos wildlife Because the Grace accommodates 18 passenger, and the National Park limits groups to 16 per guide, you are able to enjoy a truly intimate naturalist experience as you will be in small groups of only 9 people per guide - one of the best ratios in the Galápagos cruise fleet.

The Grace's operators believe in showing you the best of the Galápagos, including some of the more remote islands. They don't believe that avoiding these longer trips to save fuel will give you the most of your experience in the archipelago. To this end, Grace offers two remarkable itineraries to choose from - one focusing on the western islands departing from Baltra, and one for the eastern islands, departing from San Cristobal.

These itineraries have been designed to get you up close and personal with the most iconic species and habitats that the islands have to offer. Your naturalist guides are experts in all aspects of the islands' fauna, flora and geology, and they will bring the Galápagos to life for you. If you have particular islands or species that you simply must see, talk to one of our Galápagos experts today and we can advise you on the best Grace itinerary to fit your goals.

Our comments What more can we say? A truly historic yacht, award-winning interior designer, stunning food, choice of two wonderful itineraries… If you are planning your Galápagos adventure as part of a special celebration, or as your "trip of a lifetime", we really can't think of any better ship to book than the honeymoon yacht of Grace Kelly. Captain Jacinto and his crew are consistently rated amongst the best in the Galápagos fleet. If you can find any space on this popular ship then we really recommend a voyage on Grace. You won't be disappointed!

Dates & Prices on board the Grace

When do you want to travel.

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Amenities on board the Grace

Transfers to and from ship

Snorkel gear (free of charge)

Travel for good: Your Each booking contributes to Ventura’s Conservation Project.

Kayaks on board

Air conditioning & private bathroom

Single travellers can share cabin

Water, Coffee, Tea & fresh juices

-15% for children ≤ 15

English guide

Sundeck with jacuzzi

Food & Drinks on board the Grace

The food on our Galapágos Cruises is among the very best you will find in South America. Most of the on-board chefs are internationally trained and have prior experience working in the best hotels and restaurants in Ecuador and indeed around the world.

You can expect a first-class selection of food, including a good variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, locally sourced poultry and fish/seafood, rice and pasta dishes. Most boats will always include some typical Ecuadorian dishes on the menu during your cruise. If you have specific dietary requirements then these can usually be accommodated by the chef providing you have given advance notice. Please make sure you tell us about any allergies or dietary requirements you have at the time you book with us. If you leave it until you arrive at the dockside, then it may well be impossible to accommodate your needs.

Most boats serve a range of options at meal times in a relaxed buffet-style. At the first class and luxury end of the market, some boats have more formal dining where you will be served at your seat. However the atmosphere is always relaxed on board our cruises, and never stuffy or formal.

At Galapatours we love and respect the pristine ecosystems and fascinating wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, and we insist that our cruise partners do too. To protect the archipelago all our cruise vessels must have sophisticated water filtration systems, modern efficient engines, and strict maintenance schedules to minimize pollution.

The Galápagos National Park authority also defines exact cruising routes that dictate which ships can visit highlights at specific times, as well as limiting passenger numbers. These measures ensure that animals and habitats are not disturbed by too many visitors.

But at Galapatours we like to go even further. We voluntarily offset all the CO2 emissions of every cruise we sell - at no cost to you. And you can also play your part by traveling responsibly and following our Eco Guidelines during your stay. Click here to find out more about these guidelines, our commitment to sustainable tourism, and the Galápagos National Park rules.

Cabins categories on board the Grace

Grace Kelly Suite

Matrimonial

Max. occupancy :

More about this cabin

Master Suite

Deluxe Staterooms

Premium Stateroom

Technical details of Grace

Small yacht, main engines, 8 cylinder twin -500 bhp, 147 ft / 45m, gross tonnage, electricity, cruising speed, 22.1 feet / 7 m, 23 ft / 4 m, reviews of grace.

Cindy Wendel

Grace Galapagos Cruise

Just amazing! As I'm sitting here watching the snow fall, I am wishing it was Thursday night three weeks ago when we had finished the most delicious dinner and were laughing and frolicking onboard MY GRACE. It now feels like a dream! It was the most outstanding trip for many reasons. First, the beauty of the Galápagos Islands is indescribable as is the beauty of MY GRACE! My husband and I LOVED everything about our trip. Words cannot describe how we especially LOVED LOVED the crew! From our outstanding guides Rafa and Walter, Captain Jacinto, lovely Melissa and Nelly, fabulous chefs Vicente and Walter, charming Sau'l, the bartender, engineers Edgar, Luis Miguel and Pedro and panga drivers Miguel and Pablo...let me put it this way...I choked up as we departed at the thought of never seeing them again!! Thank you so much all of you for showing us all the time of our lives!!!! PS And wow! Everyone of them really knows how to "shake a tail feather!" Xoxoxo

Robert Munson

Unsere Galapagos Cruise auf der Grace Die Kreuzfahrt auf der M/Y Grace war erstklassig. Die Yacht war umwerfend, unsere Kabine war sehr gemütlich eingerichtet und alles war einfach perfekt. Jedes einzelne Crew-Mitglied war super freundlich und tat sein Bestes, um es allen Gästen gut ergehen zu lassen. Unsere Naturführer Raphael und Walter waren sehr gebildet und versorgten uns mit vielen Informationen. Unsere Abschiedsfeier dauerte die ganze Nacht und zeigt, was für eine enge Bindung die Passagiere und die Crew Mitglieder zueinander hatten. Diese Kreuzfahrt war wirklich etwas ganz Besonderes.

The Galapagos excursion on M/Y Grace…2/10 - 2/17/18 The Galapagos excursion on M/Y Grace was everything we could have hoped for. The yacht, complete with it's rich history, was delightful. Our cabin (C2) was extremely comfortable and well appointed. Every member of the crew was friendly and went out of their way to make sure every need or request was promptly addressed. Our guides, Raphael and Walter, were knowledgeable about every aspect of our daily snorkels, hikes and history of the Galapagos' world treasure. The 3 hour farewell celebration and dance party between the crew and our traveling friends speaks to the bond created during our week together.

Allison Warren

Best of the best: Grace Galapagos Best of the best: Outstanding activities Elegant vessel Luxury cabin Gourmet foot Skilled and passionate staff Brilliant guide Flawless service I would return in a heartbeat

Die Beste unter den Besten! Die Beste unter den Besten! Tolle Ausflüge, elegantes Schiff, luxuriöse Kabinen, Essen wie im Gourmet-Restaurant, geschultes und motiviertes Personal, brillianter Naturführer, hervorragender Service! Wenn ich könnte, würde ich sofort wieder an Bord der Grace sein.

Rachel Dapuzzo

Wir hatten einen wunderschönen Aufenthalt Wir hatten einen wunderschönen Aufnethalt auf der Grace. Die Besatzung war unglaublich eifrig, das Essen war wunderbar und auch der Küchenchef war eon toller Bursche! Er nahm auf jeden einzelnen Gast und auf Extrawünsche Rücksicht. Der Guide war wirklich außerordentlich, Raffael ist der beste Guide in ganz Galapagos! Das Schiff ist sehr hübsch. Diese Erfahrung auf den Galapagos Inseln gewesen zu sein gehört zu den magischsten Momenten. Diejenigen, die nch am Zweifeln sind, sollten es definitiv buchen!

Similar Ships

Natural Paradise

Completed in 2016, the Natural Paradise will delight you with her wonderful open communal areas, gorgeous sun deck, and light-filled rooms. Featuring every facility you can imagine, the Natural Paradise has also been fitted with stabilizers – this brings you one of the most comfortable cruising experiences in the Galápagos with even more stability than catamarans for your sailing comfort. The decor throughout Natural Paradise is modern and crisp and yet warm and welcoming. Beautiful artwork throughout the boat reflects some of the natural wonders you’ll see on your adventure, and furnishings and fittings are of the highest quality and are immaculately presented. A range of staterooms, junior suites and suites are available, giving you maximum choice. All feature en suite bathrooms with incredible showers and luxury L’Occitan cosmetics, hair dryers, and stunning sea views. For those who are looking for a little more luxury, two junior suites are available with California King beds and private balconies as well as splendid full suites with King beds, private terraces and over 3552 ft of private space. With a maximum of 16 passengers on board and yet a crew of 10, Natural Paradise offers unrivalled levels of service. As well as being chosen for their eye for detail and immaculate presentation, crew members are warm and welcoming and provide a real home-from-home feel – there are smiles everywhere on Natural Paradise! Food is freshly prepared on board and features a great range of dishes, including local specialities and fantastic seafood. The sun deck barbecue and dining table provides some memorable informal dining experiences. Coffee, teas, ice, and water are available 24 hours whenever you require and the crew always provide you with welcome snacks on returns from excursions. A wonderful, purpose-built vessel that makes for a breathtaking Galápagos cruising experience. A range of accommodation means there’s something for everyone, and the luxurious yet informal feel makes for remarkable, intimate communal experiences as well as decadent private time relaxing in your suite. Natural Paradise has raised the bar for new vessels in the area.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with the Tribute Yacht, a beacon of luxury cruising in the enchanting Galapagos Islands. As the epitome of sophistication, this yacht redefines the exploration experience, offering guests an exquisite blend of breathtaking ocean views, refined dining, and unparalleled comfort. With a guest capacity capped at 20, the Tribute Yacht ensures an intimate and exclusive voyage, allowing guests to indulge in the serenity of small-group luxury. The vessel boasts premium suites, meticulously designed to provide a sanctuary of comfort and style. From the Panorama Suites offering spacious elegance to the Premium Suites with added features like a convertible sofa and extra storage, and the expansive Owner’s Suite spanning 50m2, every accommodation option reflects opulence. Safety takes precedence aboard the Tribute Yacht, demonstrated by the acquisition of the International Safety Management Certificate. Rigorous inspections and scheduled maintenance ensure that the vessel operates in impeccable, secure condition, providing peace of mind for all esteemed guests. Luxury permeates every aspect of the Tribute Yacht, from the cocktail bar and wine vault to ocean-view dining and a delightful coffee and chocolate corner. The upper deck beckons with the serenity of the sunset lounge, a private massage area, and a workout zone, while the sun deck offers al fresco dining, BBQ feasts, and panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the refined elegance of the Tribute Yacht, where every moment is carefully crafted to make your Galapagos voyage an unforgettable synthesis of luxury and adventure.

The luxury yacht constructed in 2018 is a testament to the pinnacle of purpose-built vessels, with its modern design and luxurious features making it the epitome of sophistication. Infinity has been crafted to offer unparalleled luxury while being environmentally friendly, and to provide a safe and secure experience for guests throughout their journey. It has been designed to exceed international maritime safety standards and offer opulent accommodations that perfectly complement the stunning views from the private balconies. One of the unique aspects of Infinity is its impressive capacity, which can accommodate up to 20 passengers. This is unusual for Galápagos vessels, as most are limited to 16 guests due to the maximum number of people that can accompany a Galápagos naturalist guide inside the National Park. Infinity has redefined the rule book by offering two naturalist guides, resulting in a more intimate and personalized experience with a smaller group of only 10 guests. This allows for a closer encounter with the remarkable Galápagos creatures and ample time to learn about the fascinating islands from the bilingual guides. In addition to kayaks and snorkeling gear, Infinity also features pangas and other facilities to enhance your enjoyment on board. The yacht offers a range of itineraries, including 8-, 5-, and 4-day options that visit some of the more remote islands that other cruise vessels may not, such as the incredible [Genovesa](//galapatours.com/destinations/genovesa "Galápagos Genovesa Island") and [Fernandina](//galapatours.com/destinations/fernandina "Fernandina Galápagos Island"). The yacht has been designed to offer ample space for socializing, fine dining, and relaxing with a cocktail, making for a truly special and unforgettable experience. The vessel boasts inside and al fresco dining, an al fresco bar, and a sun deck with breathtaking views and a jacuzzi. The cabins on Infinity are designed to provide a truly luxurious experience, with panoramic windows leading to private balconies and private en suite bathrooms that are beautifully finished. All rooms feature flat screen TVs, and there are two suites available that offer a spacious living room area and floor-to-ceiling glass panels leading to large private balconies. Fine dining on Infinity is a true luxury experience, with some of the best South American and Old World wines, a wide range of premium drinks, and complimentary filtered water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee available at any time. Food on board is restaurant quality, and guests can enjoy sumptuous meals in the spacious dining area or a relaxed lunch or barbecue on the al fresco dining porch. Infinity is equipped with the latest technology and safety features, making it one of the most comfortable and luxurious vessels in the Galápagos. This remarkable ship is perfect for those seeking an intimate exploration of the wonders of the Galápagos Islands in unparalleled style and luxury, and it is certain to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be treasured forever.

- The most charming mega Yacht - Fantastic ambiance and luxury - Superb naturalist itineraries - Great extras like "glass bottom" kayaks! The Motor Vessel Evolution is, in our opinion, the most charming yacht in the Galápagos fleet. At almost 200 feet long, she is definitely a "mega yacht", and yet she has been designed to evoke the heyday of the luxury steamers - the 1920s and 1930s. Despite her vintage looks, she's actually a cutting edge vessel, designed and built in Japan in 2005 to the latest in marine safety and technology standards. Timeless elegance Your Evolution experience starts with her breathtaking decor. Sumptuous, vintage, and elegant are just of the ways we would describe it. Accommodation is across 9 premium staterooms, 4 deluxe staterooms, and 3 master suites. Cabins are simply wonderful, with stunning wood finishes and light and airy color schemes. Suites feature ocean-view windows, and other staterooms feature large traditional portholes - a truly nautical flavor! All cabins have wonderful en suite luxury bathrooms, independent air conditioning, internal telephones and plenty of storage (including personal safe). Communal areas on board are no less delightful. At the ships bow is a traditional teak-planked sundeck with a huge Jacuzzi pool - the perfect place to soak up the sun or to admire the stars. The Evolution features both internal and Al Fresco dining areas, with attention paid to every detail. For relaxing in the evening, you may choose to unwind with a drink in the inside saloon with its comfortable chairs and communal sofa, or perhaps make your way to the delightful Al Fresco lounge at the stern, with its extremely well stocked bar. Your barman has designed his own Evolution signature cocktail which we can highly recommend! Fine dining and fine service Food on board is a highlight of the Evolution experience. Breakfast and lunch are served as a relaxed buffet, with plentiful choice and a wide range of flavors to explore. Dinners are still relaxed, but are served fine dining style at tables either in the inside or Al Fresco dining areas. The chefs on board all have international hotel experience and benefit from a particularly well equipped galley, allowing them to prepare some amazing Ecuadorian and international specialties that will delight you. With only 32 guests and 18 crew to look after them, you will enjoy one of the best guest-to-staff ratios in the Galápagos fleet. Everything you need will be taken care of with skill and a warm smile. For guests who require specific assistance with disabilities or dietary requirements, just speak to one of our Galápagos experts and we will ensure that Evolution's team will give you the perfect adventure. An unrivalled wildlife experience Despite her size, the Evolution only caters for a maximum of 32 guests, and this means that she carries 2 naturalist guides. You will enjoy a decidedly intimate naturalist experience in groups of only 16. The Evolution recruits only the finest National Park approved bilingual guides, and they are a major part of the reason why your Evolution adventure will be so memorable. Two superb week-long itineraries are available. One departs from Baltra and discovers the western islands, the other leaves from San Cristobal and concentrates on the east. Both are superb and receive consistently high reviews from our travelers. They have been designed to give you the best flavor of Galápagos and the most intimate encounters with the iconic species. As well as a large variety of land excursions you will also enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking in the amazing "glass bottom" kayaks that Evolution carries. Masks, snorkels and fins are available free of charge to guests, and complimentary wetsuits are also available if required. Our comments This mega yacht is stunning. We love the "Roaring 20s" ambiance, mixed with the very latest in amenities and service, all wrapped up in a Japanese-built vessel that's less than 15 years old... the perfect combination! Our guests love the huge Jacuzzi on the sun deck, and we love the food on Evolution Galápagos - the chefs are remarkable. If you've never tried a glass-bottom kayak before you will be amazed (and don't worry, it's not actually glass, but acrylic!), and the guides on board really are among the best in the islands. A trip on the Evolution is a stunning way to see the Galápagos in fantastic style.

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Grace Galapagos Cruise

Galapagos Islands cruise

Cruise type

Motor Yacht

Itienraries

About grace galapagos cruise, discover the galapagos islands.

There are two different seven-night cruises to choose from when you set sail around the spectacular Galapagos in style aboard the exquisite M.Y. Grace . The first cruise is the “Following in Darwin’s Footsteps” trip which starts from Baltra Island and visits Santa Fe Island, Tower Island, including Darwin Bay, Isabela Island, Santiago Island, and Santa Cruz, before finishing on the island of San Cristobal. The second cruise is called the “Beyond Darwin’s Footsteps” voyage and it sets sail from San Cristobal to Baltra Island. Highlights of this cruise include Española Island, Santa Cruz, Floreana Island, Rabida Island, North Seymour Island, and Black Turtle Cove. Activities on each adventure include snorkelling, kayaking, riding in Zodiac boats, and hiking. You can be fascinated by an abundance of wildlife in one of the world’s most unique places.

Our crew, all professionally trained, will provide you with excellent care from the first to the last day of your trip on board. Relax during your vacation and connect closely with nature. Enjoy the Jacuzzi overlooking the sea, delight your palate with our local recipes and have a cocktail at the bar while sailing through the beautiful islands at sunset

Grace cruise itineraries

Prepare yourself to immerse in one of the most biodiverse locations in the world.

8 DAY ITINERARY FOOTSTEPS

• Day 1  – Tuesday (Baltra Island / Highlands – Puerto Ayora and Darwin Station)
• Day 2  – Wednesday (Floreana Island: Post Office Bay -Punta Cormorant & Champion Islet)
• Day 3  – Thursday (Española Island: Punta Suarez-Gardner Bay & Gardner Islet)
• Day 4  – Friday (San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt- Lobos Island & Kicker Rock)
• Day 5  – Saturday (Santa Fe Island – South Plaza Island)
• Day 6  – Sunday (North Seymour Island -Bartolomé Island)
• Day 7  – Chinese Hat Islet -Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill
• Day 8  – Black Turtle Cove / Baltra & Flight Home – Airport

8 DAY ITINERARY TRAIL

• Day 1  – Tuesday (Arrive to Baltra Island Airport-Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach)
• Day 2  – Wednesday (Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip’s Steps- Darwin Bay)
• Day 3  – Thursday (Santiago Island: James Bay – Espumilla Beach & Buccaneer’s Cove)
• Day 4  – Friday (Isabela Island: Punta Vicente Roca -Tagus Cove)
• Day 5  – Saturday (Fernandina Island: Punta Espinosa-Isabela Island: Urbina Bay)
• Day 6  – Sunday a.m. (Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay -Punta Moreno)
• Day 7  – Monday (Isabela Island: Las Tintoreras, Sucre’s Cave, Breeding Center & Wetlands -Navigation to Santa Cruz Island
• Day 8  – Tuesday (Santa Cruz Island: Los Gemelos / Flight Home) – Airport

Best price guaranteed!

Ask about our Last minute deals and Early bird discounts.

Grace cruise details

Learn everything about your favorite destination

• Transfers airport/yacht/airport in Galapagos
• Airport reception and assistance
• Double accommodation
• Guided expeditions according to the itinerary
• Top bilingual National Park guide (English / Spanish)
• Cruise Service Officer
• 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
• Kettlebells and dumbbells
• Stargazing laser pointer
• Round flight to Galapagos
• Galapagos National Park Entrance fee ($100 – subject to change)
• Transit Control Card ($20 – subject to change)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities for guide and crew
• Travel and health insurance
• Micro SD Card 4K
• Private bathroom
• Air conditioning
• Room towels
• Beach towels
• 110v Electricity point in cabin
• Safe deposit box (in each cabin)
• Lounge area
• Reading Material
• TV/DVD – Communal
• Emergency Satellite Phone
• Wetsuits for hire
• Kayaks and paddle on board (free)

This is one of the greatest and most abundant marine life snorkeling spots in the world!

By hiking in the islands, you will be a witness to land species in their Natural habitat.

Birdwatching

Meet up close thousands of endemic and exotic species on your bucket list.

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GRACE CRUISE ITINERARIES

Grace galapagos cruise 8 days itinerary san cristobal.

• Day 1: Saturday - San Cristobal Island: Lobos
• Day 2: Sunday - Espanola Island: Punta Suarez & Gardner Bay
• Day 3: Monday - Floreana Island: Post Office Bay & Cormorant Point
• Day 4: Tuesday - Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill & Highlands
• Day 5: Wednesday - Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach & Chinese Hat
• Day 6: Thursday - Rabida Island: Jervis & Santiago Island: Sullivan Bay
• Day 7: Friday - Bartolome Island: Pinnacle Rock & Overlook & North Seymour Island
• Day 8: Saturday - Black Turtle Cove

GRACE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS 8 DAYS ITINERARY BALTRA

• Day 1: Saturday - Daphne Major Islet
• Day 2: Sunday - Santa Fe Island & South Plaza Island
• Day 3: Monday - Genovesa Island: Prince Phillip’s Steps & Darwin Bay
• Day 4: Tuesday - Fernandina Island: Punta Espinosa & Isabela Island: Urbina Bay
• Day 5: Wednesday - Isabela Island: Tagus Cove & Punta Vicente Roca
• Day 6: Thursday - Santiago Island: Espumilla Beach & James Bay
• Day 7: Friday - Santa Cruz Island: Highlands and the Charles Darwin Research Station
• Day 8: Saturday - San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center

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Review: Golden Galapagos Cruises

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Experience the otherworldly landscapes of the Galapagos Islands with Golden Galapagos, a carbon-neutral cruise operator proud to set a new standard for luxury travel in this iconic archipelago. Golden Galapagos offers an elevated cruise experience with a fleet of cutting-edge luxury catamarans, redefining luxury in this unique natural paradise.

The custom-designed luxury catamarans prioritize stability while sailing the pristine Pacific waters around the Galapagos Islands. Impeccably crafted itineraries ensure maximum exposure to the archipelago’s fascinating endemic species and distinctive geographical features. Their use of environmentally friendly technologies underscores their commitment to preserving the Galapagos as a natural treasure.

Picture yourself cruising through azure waters on a luxurious yacht, surrounded by soaring frigate birds, lumbering tortoises, playful sea lions, and sleek sharks. The spacious suites, coupled with sweeping views from your balcony, create an intimate and inviting atmosphere. Dining onboard is something special in itself. The incredible chefs create culinary masterpieces for all their guests.

Golden Galapagos Cruises not only provides a luxurious cruise experience but also endeavors to maintain the pristine nature of the Enchanted Isles. With a courteous and professional staff and a knowledgeable naturalist guide, each moment on board becomes a discovery of the unique and captivating wonders of the Galapagos Islands. This immersive cruise promises a fresh perspective on our world and the awe-inspiring natural treasures hidden within the archipelago.

Golden Galapagos Cruises typically sail from the main ports of the Galapagos Islands, such as Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island or San Cristobal Island. These ports are strategically located within the Galapagos archipelago and serve as departure points for cruises exploring the various islands and visitor sites within the Galapagos National Park.

Depending on the specific itinerary and cruise package chosen, Golden Galapagos Cruises may also offer departures from other ports or airports in Ecuador, such as Baltra Island or the mainland city of Guayaquil or Quito. These departure points provide convenient access to the Galapagos Islands for travelers arriving from mainland Ecuador or other international destinations.

Style & Character

Golden Galapagos Cruises is a tour operator that offers the very best in luxury cruises and tours in the Galapagos Islands. They specialize in providing unique and unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking to explore the natural wonders of this iconic archipelago.

Golden Galapagos Cruises operates a fleet of modern, luxurious and comfortable catamarans, offering a range of cruise itineraries to suit different interests and preferences. Their cruises typically include visits to multiple islands within the Galapagos National Park, allowing guests to encounter the diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique ecosystems that make the Galapagos Islands such a renowned destination.

On board a Galapagos cruise, guests can expect a unique, immersive experience combining adventure, comfort, and exploration. Galapagos cruises offer comfortable and often luxurious accommodations. Cabins and suites are well-appointed with amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and sometimes even private balconies.

The most luxurious and newest next-generation catamaran is the Galapagos Endemic which offers travelers a luxurious and immersive experience exploring the pristine beauty of the Galapagos Islands. The Endemic is a state-of-the-art catamaran specifically designed for cruising the Galapagos Islands. With sleek lines and contemporary interiors, the vessel provides the most comfortable and stylish suites for guests to relax and unwind between island excursions.

The Endemic offers spacious and well-appointed cabins and suites, each featuring panoramic windows or private balconies to enjoy the stunning views of the Galapagos landscapes. Modern amenities such as air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and plush bedding ensure a comfortable stay throughout the journey.

The Golden Galapagos Cruises Elite Ship represents equally represents the epitome of luxury and sophistication in exploring the enchanting Galapagos Islands. It’s clever design allows for more space per guest on board, including integrated social areas that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces and experiences. All Suites on the Elite are spacious and comfortable with elegant interiors adorned with fine craftsmanship and modern furnishings.

Service & Facilities

Galapagos cruises include guided excursions led by experienced naturalist guides. These guides accompany guests on shore visits to the various islands of the archipelago, providing insight into the unique wildlife, ecosystems, and geological features of each location. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating natural history of the Galapagos while observing iconic species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.

In addition to guided shore excursions, Galapagos cruises offer a variety of activities to suit different interests and preferences. These may include snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography. Guests can explore the Galapagos Islands’ diverse landscapes and marine environments while engaging in hands-on experiences guided by knowledgeable experts.

Guests can expect the height of luxury in onboard suites and perfectly appointed cabins designed to provide a restful retreat after a day of exploration. Common areas are the place to relax and socialize between excursions. Spacious lounges, sun decks with panoramic views, and outdoor seating areas provide the perfect venues to meet fellow explorers.

Food & Drink

Dining on board a Galapagos cruise is a culinary treat in itself. Onboard professional cuisine specialists prepare delicious, nutritious meals each day: breakfast and lunch are often served buffet-style, with a more elegant sit-down dinner served in an alfresco dining area. Freshly prepared meals with locally sourced ingredients are typically served in a communal dining area, where guests can enjoy flavorful dishes that showcase the region’s culinary diversity, often with options to accommodate dietary preferences.

A Galapagos cruise offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of this unique archipelago. Comfortable accommodations, gourmet dining, and expert-led excursions ensure a memorable and enriching experience for all guests.

Golden Galapagos Cruises aims to provide exceptional and personalized experiences that showcase the beauty and biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands while ensuring a high level of comfort, luxury, and sustainability for their guests.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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Strange Glow Over Moscow Skies Triggers Panic as Explosions Reported

B right flashes lit up the night sky in southern Moscow in the early hours of Thursday morning, new footage appears to show, following reports of an explosion at an electrical substation on the outskirts of the city.

Video snippets circulating on Russian-language Telegram channels show a series of flashes on the horizon of a cloudy night sky, momentarily turning the sky a number of different colors. In a clip shared by Russian outlet MSK1.ru, smoke can be seen rising from a building during the flashes lighting up the scene.

Newsweek was unable to independently verify the details of the video clips, including when and where it was filmed. The Russian Ministry of Emergency situations has been contacted via email.

Several Russian Telegram accounts said early on Thursday that residents of southern Moscow reported an explosion and a fire breaking out at an electrical substation in the Leninsky district, southeast of central Moscow.

Local authorities in the Leninsky district told Russian outlet RBC that the explosion had happened in the village of Molokovo. "All vital facilities are operating as normal," Leninsky district officials told the outlet.

The incident at the substation in Molokovo took place just before 2 a.m. local time, MSK1.ru reported.

Messages published by the ASTRA Telegram account, run by independent Russian journalists, appear to show residents close to the substation panicking as they question the bright flashes in the sky. One local resident describes seeing the bright light before losing access to electricity, with another calling the incident a "nightmare."

More than 10 villages and towns in the southeast of Moscow lost access to electricity, the ASTRA Telegram account also reported. The town of Lytkarino to the southeast of Moscow, lost electricity, wrote the eastern European-based independent outlet, Meduza.

Outages were reported in the southern Domodedovo area of the city, according to another Russian outlet, as well as power failures in western Moscow. Electricity was then restored to the areas, the Strana.ua outlet reported.

The cause of the reported explosion is not known. A Telegram account aggregating news for the Lytkarino area described the incident as "an ordinary accident at a substation."

The MSK1.ru outlet quoted a local resident who speculated that a drone may have been responsible for the explosion, but no other Russian source reported this as a possible cause.

Ukraine has repeatedly targeted Moscow with long-range aerial drones in recent months, including a dramatic wave of strikes in late May.

On Sunday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the region's air defense systems had intercepted an aerial drone over the city of Elektrostal, to the east of Moscow. No damage or casualties were reported, he said.

The previous day, Russian air defenses detected and shot down another drone flying over the Bogorodsky district, northeast of central Moscow, Sobyanin said.

There is currently no evidence that an aerial drone was responsible for the reported overnight explosion at the electrical substation in southern Moscow.

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