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M/Y Yacht Solaris 1M/Y Yacht Solaris 2M/Y Yacht Solaris 3M/Y Yacht Solaris 4M/Y Yacht Solaris 5M/Y Yacht Solaris 6M/Y Yacht Solaris 7M/Y Yacht Solaris 8M/Y Yacht Solaris 9M/Y Yacht Solaris 10

M/Y Yacht Solaris

Ecuador · Liveaboard

from USD 4,150 / person

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Type
Liveaboard
Built / renovated
2019
Length × width
36 m × 9 m
Cabins
11
Capacity
16 guests
Nitrox
NO
Wi-Fi
NO
Rental gear
NO

Highlights

  • M/Y Yacht Solaris offers an incredible non-diving naturalist cruise on a first-class yacht, with all the luxuries of a floating hotel
  • The two routes are packed with unforgettable wildlife experiences from snorkeling with whitetip reef sharks, seals and sea turtles to visiting tortoise breeding sanctuaries
  • A more intimate experience. With a maximum of 16 passengers, the yacht offers personalized experiences in a relaxed environment
  • The expert naturalist guide brings to life the magic of nature even more: a real privilege for anyone interested in the natural world
  • Sail through the night and visit two sites each day to make the most of your precious time in the Galapagos!

About M/Y Yacht Solaris

Step aboard the M/Y Yacht Solaris, a luxurious liveaboard that offers an intimate glimpse into the breathtaking ecosystem of the Galapagos. With a maximum capacity of just 16 guests, this first-class yacht ensures a personalized experience, allowing you to explore the natural wonders of this unique archipelago in comfort and style.

Embark on one of three captivating itineraries, where each day brings the chance to snorkel with whitetip reef sharks, playful seals, and majestic sea turtles. Guided by an expert naturalist, you'll delve into the vibrant marine life, including eagle rays, marine iguanas, and octopuses. As you sail through the night, you’ll visit two stunning sites each day, maximizing your adventure in this unforgettable destination.

Onboard, enjoy full board amenities, including island tours and kayak usage, all while soaking in the beauty of your surroundings. The M/Y Yacht Solaris promises an exceptional journey through one of nature's most awe-inspiring playgrounds.

Routes & departures

Naturalist cruise: Itinerary B4 nights · 73 Departures
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Upon arrival at Seymour Ecological Airport, a check-up is carried out, to ensure that no foreign plant or animal species are introduced on the islands. Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist you with the luggage and accompany you on the short bus ride to the harbour of Puerto Ayora. Here you will climb aboard the yacht. After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch on-board. In the afternoon, Galapagos sea lions are true beach lovers and Mosquera offers beautiful white coral sand beaches, which contrast with the blue water and thus attract numerous sea lions. During a beach walk you can observe numerous species of waders and sanderlings. Between the rocks the red clip crabs wait to play hide and seek while you try to get the perfect photo. If you are lucky, you may even encounter yellow-crowned night-herons or even a red-footed booby.

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Inside the submerged caldera of Genovesa lies Darwin Bay. The small-scaled area will surprise you as find yourself walking along a coral sand beach, crossing barren lava formations and creeks, passing tidal pools, shrubs and further ahead following the top of some cliffs. Every single species has occupied its own ecological niche. Whimbrels and wandering tattlers forage actively along the surf, next to resting Galapagos sea lions. Impressive frigatebirds and red-footed boobies nest in the mangroves, where you can also see vocalists such as the yellow warbler, Darwin’s finches and the Galapagos mockingbird. Uniquely, two subpopulations of the same species of large cactus finch differ in their singing. We will sail to nearby Prince Philip’s Steps, close to the entrance of the broken caldera. Sometimes a Galapagos fur seal might be resting on one of the shaded ledges. Here you can snorkel once again, and then follow the guided trail through clifftop seabird colonies. At the seaside of the rim, the bushes open up and you can enjoy wide views and the strong sea breeze. Following the exposed rim you will first pass a colony of Nazca boobies and finally reach the extensive storm petrel nesting places, where if you are lucky you can see how the well-camouflaged short-eared owl hunts for them on foot!

  3. 3
    Day 3

    You will enjoy an unforgettable guided walk on South Plaza, the best place to encounter endemic Galapagos land iguanas, patient and photogenic models. You can also look out for some of the unique hybrids between the male marine iguana and female land iguana. Arriving at the upper rim, about 20m/75ft downwards impressively droning waves splash against the foot of soaring cliffs. You will land right in the middle of a Galapagos sea lion colony on the beach, where you will have time for a refreshing swim or excellent snorkelling among tropical reef fish in the crystal-clear azure waters of Barrington Bay. You will also encounter bizarre giant prickly pear cactus (opuntia) forests. These are the largest cacti on the islands, with extremely thick trunks, and can grow over 10m/33ft tall! We have a wet landing at the beach of Santa Fe where we have a guided nature walk. This extraordinary island is a remnant of probably the most ancient volcano on the Galapagos. Kicker Rock is a huge offshore block of rock with a sharp tower next to it. Reaching about 150m/500ft above sea level, from the side it has the form of a giant shoe (hence its name Kicker Rock), whilst from a longitudinal direction it resembles a sleeping lion (hence its Spanish name Leon Dormido). Before breakfast you will enjoy a dinghy-ride and optional snorkelling where you might encounter octopuses, different species of sharks and Pacific green turtles. On the north-eastern coast of the island of Española, Gardner Bay offers a wonderful place to refresh in the turquoise sea and to admire the large number of colourful reef fish. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel side by side with green sea turtles, or to enjoy the proximity of the playful Galapagos sea lion.

  4. 4
    Day 4

    This rocky area is home to the most impressive and diverse seabirds of the archipelago. The endangered Galapagos albatross returns to Española (March - December) annually. This allows visitors to admire the balances of pipes and bows (especially in October). Blue-fronted and nazcat oil pipes, black-tailed gulls and red-billed tropic birds are native to this island. Along the southern coast, high cliffs allow spectacular views of ascending birds and the sea water shot through air holes.While having lunch we will navigate back to Post Office Bay (about 1hr). Post your holiday greetings in the historical barrel, one of three nearby visitor’s sites on Floreana’s north coast (short displacement, wet landing) and relax. Besides Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles and golden cownose rays you might spot Galapagos penguins! This is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside. Explore by inflatable dinghy – or at your own pace by sea-kayak – another submerged crater rim around the bay of Baroness Lookout. Climb the miniature basaltic cone of Baroness Lookout and take in the paradisiacal coastal views. The arrival in Sullivan Bay is like a moon landing. The desolate, sprawling fields seem to be mostly lifeless, but this island, which is particularly popular among photographers, still offers a lot to see. There is even some life! Green sea turtles burrow in the small white sand beach, where you can also find crabs, blue herons and oystercatchers. The island of Bartolomé rises 114m above Sullivan Bay. Climb the steps of the Bartolomé Peak Trail and you will be rewarded with panoramic views over volcanic peaks, lunar craters and lava fields. Afterward you can refresh yourself at the foot of the famous "Pinnacle Rock" and explore the underwater world in the shallow water while snorkeling. Although there is little vegetation on this island, it has two breathtaking beaches, where sea turtles live. At the foot of the mountain, you can also discover a small colony of Galapagos penguins.

  5. 5
    Day 5

    This small bay is located on the north side of the island of Santa Cruz and offers a unique backdrop for unique adventures. The landscape makes you feel as if you're in the Amazon rainforest rather than near the sea. Explore the quiet emerald lagoon and surrounding shallow bays with the inflatable dinghy. The crystal clear water allows you to spot groups of whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, gold rays and spotted eagle rays. Unfortunately, our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

You must bring a certificate of health insurance to be allowed entry into Ecuador: it is your responsibility to ensure you are carrying this   Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions.

Getting there

At the arrival you will have to pay your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and your luggage will be inspected Transfers in Galapagos are included only if the flight has been booked through the operator The airport is close by the harbour Please note that if your directly booked flight arrives earlier to Galapagos than our scheduled flight, you will have to wait at Galapagos airport until arrival of the scheduled flight. If your Galapagos flight arrives later than our scheduled flight, additional transport costs may be applicable to reach the yacht. The same policy applies for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil. Please note that any missed excursions cannot be claimed when booking your own flights.

Departures · 73

DatenightsfromSpots
Oct 16, 2026 – Oct 20, 20264USD 4,15013 left
Oct 20, 2026 – Oct 26, 20266USD 6,1956 left
Oct 26, 2026 – Oct 30, 20264USD 4,150—
Oct 30, 2026 – Nov 3, 20264USD 4,1506 left
Nov 3, 2026 – Nov 9, 20266USD 6,19513 left
Nov 9, 2026 – Nov 13, 20264USD 4,150—
Nov 13, 2026 – Nov 17, 20264USD 4,150—
Nov 17, 2026 – Nov 23, 20266USD 6,1958 left
Nov 23, 2026 – Nov 27, 20264USD 4,150—
Nov 27, 2026 – Dec 1, 20264USD 4,15014 left
Dec 1, 2026 – Dec 7, 20266USD 6,19522 left
Dec 7, 2026 – Dec 11, 20264USD 4,15016 left
Dec 11, 2026 – Dec 15, 20264USD 4,15020 left
Dec 15, 2026 – Dec 21, 20266USD 6,19522 left
Dec 21, 2026 – Dec 25, 20264USD 4,7756 left
Dec 25, 2026 – Dec 29, 20264USD 4,775—
Dec 29, 2026 – Jan 4, 20276USD 7,12522 left
Jan 4, 2027 – Jan 8, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jan 8, 2027 – Jan 12, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jan 12, 2027 – Jan 18, 20276USD 6,49517 left
Jan 18, 2027 – Jan 22, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jan 22, 2027 – Jan 26, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jan 26, 2027 – Feb 1, 20276USD 6,49519 left
Feb 1, 2027 – Feb 5, 20274USD 4,350—
Feb 5, 2027 – Feb 9, 20274USD 4,35017 left
Feb 9, 2027 – Feb 15, 20276USD 6,49514 left
Feb 15, 2027 – Feb 19, 20274USD 4,35021 left
Feb 19, 2027 – Feb 23, 20274USD 4,35016 left
Feb 23, 2027 – Mar 1, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Mar 1, 2027 – Mar 5, 20274USD 4,35019 left
Mar 5, 2027 – Mar 9, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Mar 9, 2027 – Mar 15, 20276USD 6,49518 left
Mar 15, 2027 – Mar 19, 20274USD 4,350—
Mar 19, 2027 – Mar 23, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Mar 23, 2027 – Mar 29, 20276USD 7,46913 left
Mar 29, 2027 – Apr 2, 20274USD 5,00320 left
Apr 2, 2027 – Apr 6, 20274USD 5,00314 left
Apr 6, 2027 – Apr 12, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Apr 12, 2027 – Apr 16, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Apr 16, 2027 – Apr 20, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Apr 20, 2027 – Apr 26, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Apr 26, 2027 – Apr 30, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Apr 30, 2027 – May 4, 20274USD 4,35022 left
May 4, 2027 – May 10, 20276USD 6,49522 left
May 10, 2027 – May 14, 20274USD 4,35022 left
May 14, 2027 – May 18, 20274USD 4,35022 left
May 18, 2027 – May 24, 20276USD 6,49522 left
May 24, 2027 – May 28, 20274USD 4,35022 left
May 28, 2027 – Jun 1, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jul 13, 2027 – Jul 19, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Jul 19, 2027 – Jul 23, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jul 23, 2027 – Jul 27, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Jul 27, 2027 – Aug 2, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Aug 2, 2027 – Aug 6, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Aug 6, 2027 – Aug 10, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Aug 10, 2027 – Aug 16, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Aug 16, 2027 – Aug 20, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Aug 20, 2027 – Aug 24, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Aug 24, 2027 – Aug 30, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Aug 30, 2027 – Sep 3, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Sep 3, 2027 – Sep 7, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Sep 7, 2027 – Sep 13, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Sep 13, 2027 – Sep 17, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Sep 17, 2027 – Sep 21, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Sep 21, 2027 – Sep 27, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Sep 27, 2027 – Oct 1, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Oct 1, 2027 – Oct 5, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Oct 5, 2027 – Oct 11, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Oct 11, 2027 – Oct 15, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Oct 15, 2027 – Oct 19, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Oct 19, 2027 – Oct 25, 20276USD 6,49522 left
Oct 25, 2027 – Oct 29, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Oct 29, 2027 – Nov 2, 20274USD 4,35022 left
Naturalist cruise: Itinerary C4 nights
  1. 1
    Day 1
  2. 2
    Day 2
  3. 3
    Day 3
  4. 4
    Day 4
  5. 5
    Day 5

Good to know

You must bring a certificate of health insurance to be allowed entry into Ecuador: it is your responsibility to ensure you are carrying this   Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions.

Getting there

At the arrival you will have to pay your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and your luggage will be inspected  Transfers in Galapagos are included only if the flight has been booked through the operator The airport is close by the harbour Please note that if your directly booked flight arrives earlier to Galapagos than our scheduled flight, you will have to wait at Galapagos airport until arrival of the scheduled flight. If your Galapagos flight arrives later than our scheduled flight, additional transport costs may be applicable to reach the yacht. The same policy applies for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil. Please note that any missed excursions cannot be claimed when booking your own flights. DETAILED ITINERARY: DAY 1 - FRIDAY AM – Arrival at San Cristobal Airport Upon arrival at San Cristobal airport, you will pass through an airport inspection point to ensure that no foreign plants or animals are introduced to the islands, as well as to pay the park entrance fee of USD 100 (unless it has been prepaid). A guide will meet you, help you collect your luggage, and escort you on a short bus ride to the harbour. Here you will climb aboard the yacht Solaris. After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch aboard. PM - Colorado Hill (San Cristobal) Cerro Colorado Tortoises Protection and Growing Centre is located approximately 40 minutes by bus to the southeast of the island. This centre was built to improve the status of the population of the island tortoises. It includes a large corral, a visitor centre, a breeding centre and an interpretive trail. Along this trail, it is possible to see different species of native and endemic plants as well as birds including the San Cristobal mockingbird, yellow warblers, many species of finches and the Galapagos flycatcher. DAY 2 - SATURDAY AM - Gardner Bay (Española) On the north-eastern coast of the island of Española, Gardner Bay offers a wonderful place to refresh in the turquoise sea and to admire a large number of colourful reef fish. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel side by side with green sea turtles, or to enjoy the proximity of playful Galapagos sea lions. The white sand beach is also an important breeding ground for the green sea turtles. In the crystal-clear ocean, sometimes whales can be sighted under certain circumstances. PM – Suarez Point (Española) Huge ocean waves crash onto the southern basaltic cliffs of Suarez Point, forming a spectacular blowhole, where the water sprays metres high into the air (depending on the season, the tide and how strongly the sea breeze pushes the waves). Take your time for a meditative break in silence on this emblematic viewpoint, and convert this unforgettable moment into a lifetime experience. This rocky area is home to the most impressive and diverse seabirds of the archipelago. Depending on the season, you can admire the endangered Galapagos albatross, blue-footed and Nazca boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropicbirds, and more. Along the southern coast, high cliffs allow spectacular views of ascending birds and the seawater shot through blow holes. DAY 3 - SUNDAY AM - Cormorant Point and Champion Islet (Floreana) The peninsula of Cormorant Point forms the extreme north cape of Floreana, which exists out of smaller volcanic cones, covered by a tropical dry forest of palo santo. At the landing beach, you will be welcomed by a small Galapagos sea lion colony. The green sand on this beach contains a high percentage of glassy olivine crystals which have been blown out by the surrounding tuff cones. The “flour sand” beach on the southern side of the peninsula is made up of even finer white coral sand which feels very smooth on the feet. Parrotfish have pulverised it, grinding the calcareous skeletons of living coral. You can spot schools of stingrays who love the sandy bottom to hide. During the first months of the year, Pacific green turtles come ashore to bury their eggs. Devil’s Crown offers one of the best snorkelling spots in the Galapagos due to the coral reef in its centre, which attracts a lot of marine life. Here you can spot Galapagos penguins, sea lions, sea turtles, many different colourful fish and even some dolphins. The current can be a bit strong sometimes, so it should not be attempted by novice swimmers. PM - Post Office Bay and Baroness Viewpoint (Floreana) Historically, this site is the location of a wooden barrel that was placed there in the 18th century by the crew of a whaling ship. Letters found inside the barrel were collected and delivered by sailors returning home. There was no postage fee and, surprisingly, this mailbox and its honour system are still in use today. Although letters are no longer important messages from sailors to their loved ones, tourists leave thousands of them today and many still reach their destination. You can also relax on the beach, where in addition to Galapagos sea lions, Pacific green turtles and golden rays, you may see Galapagos penguins. This is the only place in the southeastern archipelago where penguins reside. You can also climb the small basaltic cone of the Baroness Lookout and enjoy the coastline’s paradisiacal views. This viewpoint was the favourite spot of one of Floreana's first settlers, the eccentric baroness and self-proclaimed “Empress of the Galapagos”, Eloisa von Wagner, who even built her house a few metres further back. There will be a long navigation waiting at the end of the day, so we recommend that you take medication for seasicknes DAY 4 – MONDAY AM - Sullivan Bay (Santiago) The arrival in Sullivan Bay is like a moon landing. The desolate, sprawling fields seem to be mostly lifeless, but this island, which is particularly popular among photographers, still offers a lot to see. There is even some life! Green sea turtles burrow in the small white sand beach, where you can also find crabs, blue herons and oystercatchers. PM - Bartolomé The beautiful volcanic islet of Bartholomew is among the youngest of the islands and, on a geological scale, was just recently born out of the fire. Although it looks lifeless at first sight, Bartholomew offers some of the wildest landscapes and best panoramas of the entire archipelago. To enjoy the postcard view of the idyllic “Pinnacle Bay” you will have to climb the stairs to the viewpoint on top of the island (114 m/375 ft). Enter a dramatic world of threatening (though extinguished) nearby spatter cones, craters, and lightweight lava droplets that have been spewed out by fiery fountains. The summit trail is also ideal for witnessing how scanty pioneer vegetation, such as lava cactus, struggles to take root in the bare virgin lava fields. DAY 5 - TUESDAY AM - Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) This small bay is located on the north side of the island of Santa Cruz and offers a unique backdrop for unique adventures. The landscape makes you feel as if you're in the Amazon rainforest rather than near the sea. Explore the quiet emerald lagoon and surrounding shallow bays with the inflatable dinghy. The crystal clear water allows you to spot groups of whitetip reef sharks, blacktip reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, gold rays and spotted eagle rays. After that, it is time to say goodbye to the Galapagos! It has been a pleasure accompanying you on this unique trip and we hope to see you again very soon. Assisted by the naturalist guide and some crew members, the dinghy will bring you and your luggage to Baltra airport. In case you have booked your trip for a longer stay with us, we would be welcoming any potential new fellow passengers to the yacht, and continue our trip to the next visiting site! - Transfer to Baltra Airport

Naturalist cruise: Itinerary A6 nights
  1. 1
    Day 1

    Upon arrival at Seymour Ecological Airport, a check-up is carried out, to ensure that no foreign plant or animal species are introduced on the islands. Your guide will meet you at the airport, assist you with the luggage and accompany you on the short bus ride to the harbour of Puerto Ayora. Here you will climb aboard the yacht. After greeting the crew and the captain, your cabins will be assigned to you and then you will enjoy your first lunch on-board. In the afternoon visit two small beaches located in the west of the Turtle Cove on Santa Cruz. Their sand consists of decomposed corals, which makes it white and soft. This makes it the favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Behind one of the beaches there are small water lagoons, where flamingos and other coastal birds, such as black-necked stilt birds and rainbows, can occasionally be spotted. On the second beach, which is the wider one, you can explore the remains of two abandoned warships. Please Note: This is a sample itinerary and nº of dives, dive sites, etc. may be subject to change due to weather conditions and other unforeseeable factors.

  2. 2
    Day 2

    Just outside the harbour of Puerto Villamil a group of islets protrude just above the ocean. The jagged black formations, dotted with mangrove and candelabra cactus, are the remnants of a lava stream that has ended up in the ocean. Marine life gets trapped, including spectacular whitetip reef sharks. This species of shark is fairly common in the archipelago, and generally spotted on the seabed when snorkelling, while they rest from their nocturnal hunts. At this unique location you can observe them comfortably from the bank in the crystal-clear turquoise waters. Sometimes turtles and elegant white-spotted eagle rays or golden rays glide back and forth through this calm channel, as well as smaller fish and Galapagos sea lions. Also, this is where the largest species of marine iguanas reproduce. The rocky shoreline with its intertidal life also attracts sally lightfoot crabs, lava herons and Galapagos penguins, which reside on the other (western) side of Isabela. After lunch aboard you will visit the local tortoise breeding centre, where you can see hundreds of giant Galapagos tortoises of all sizes. The vulnerable hatchlings are not gigantic at all, even smaller than the size of your hand! This project just outside Puerto Villamil was created to rescue the endangered populations of Isabela’s both southernmost volcanoes. In Puerto Villamil and the surrounding wetlands there is the historical ‘Wall of tears’ (national cultural heritage), where prisoners were punished and forced to build this long wall of lava clocks. Also, you might have the chance to see American flamingos. At the end of the afternoon you will have some free time to explore the village and/or its beach.

  3. 3
    Day 3

    Punta Moreno is located between the volcanoes Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul, on the north coast of Isabela Island. The trail leads along the lava river Pahoehoe to a complex of several coastal lagoons. The main attraction are various bird species which can be found in lakes and mangrove forests Enter the Bolivar Channel to Tagus Cove (navigation time: 3h). Meanwhile you can enjoy the delicious lunch buffet before snorkelling and visiting Tagus Cove. Explosive eruptions have blown out a part of the outer rims of both tuff cones, and created their characteristic horseshoe shapes and Tagus Cove. The inner crater rim contains Darwin Lake. Traditionally sailors started to write the names of their vessels on the eastern cliffs of Tagus cove. During the hike along the inner crater ridge of Darwin Lake you can continue to a great viewpoint on the outer caldera rim, with views to the outstretched lava slopes of Darwin Volcano. This arid inland zone is overgrown with characteristic tropical dry forest vegetation including a special variety of palo santo, Galapagos cotton and yellow cordia (muyuyu).

  4. 4
    Day 4

    Espinoza Point is Fernandina’s only terrestrial visitors site, and one of the few locations where you will find some bizarre outgrowths of natural selection. The figurehead is the emblematic cormorant that lives exclusively in the remote west of Galapagos, and could be considered as the ‘holy grail of evolution’. You will also love the almost unworldly views with the dominating cone of Volcán La Cumbre as a spectacular backdrop. The narrow headland that you walk along is the end of a lava tongue that has reached the coast and solidfied upon contact with the cold seawater Whilst having lunch we will cross the Bolivar Channel for the last time to Vicente Roca Point, just at the mouth of Isabela’s seahorse-shape. While entering a dark cave below a spectacular arch, roaring echoes of the waves will accompany you. Just around the corner the collapsed amphitheatre of Volcan Ecuador offers another impressive view. The calmer waters of the coves are well-protected against the ocean swell and are a fairly cold, but great place for snorkelling amongst various species of shark, penguins, pufferfish and even seahorses!

  5. 5
    Day 5

    Espumilla Beach is a visitor’s site at the northern end of James Bay, on the western coast of Santiago. This beach has been revived as an important breeding site for turtles, as it is no longer suffering from digging wild pigs. The turtles return year after year to bury their eggs into the cinnamon coloured sand dunes.The beach ridge hides a mangle with two picturesque lagoons. The colony of American flamingos and aquatic birds used to be its main attraction, but after the climate phenomenon of El Niño, strong sedimentation altered the brackish water environment, and it no longer contains their food. During the climb of a hill you will be rewarded with a beautiful overview of the transitions from sea into beach into mangrove into dry palo santo forest. At lunchtime you will navigate south to Puerto Egas with its famous fur seal grottos, where you will enjoy another, very different guided walk along the coastline. Its masterly sculptured coastline of black basalts and polished multi-coloured ash-layers forms a photogenic scene with collapsed lava tunnels, natural arches, caves and blowholes such as ‘Darwin’s toilet’. In a grotto directly below a spectacular rock arch at the end of the beach, a colony of sea lions occupies the shade. Hundreds of sally lightfoot crabs seem even brighter orange against the black rocks.

  6. 6
    Day 6

    After lunch and a ‘wet landing’ on the remarkable red beach of Rabida, there are two short guided hikes. Oxidised iron particles give the rocks and sand their rusty colour. The beach wall holds a shallow green-fringed lagoon; this oasis is the most fertile place on the otherwise arid islet, which is overgrown with leaf-dropping palo santo trees. The salty pool attracts all kind of aquatic birds, like pintails and sometimes American flamingos. Between the evergreen foliage of the surrounding mangrove bushes many species of songbirds hide and breed. One of the most outstanding attractions is the major breeding colony of brown pelicans, the only ones in the world that plunge-dive. On return you will be picked up by the inflatable dinghies, to get ready for snorkelling. Chinese Hat is a 52m/170ft high volcanic cone, forming another islet off the rocky coast of Santiago, where a small colony of Galapagos penguins has settled. Because its primordial fire has been extinguished recently, this is an excellent place to learn more about volcanism, lava bombs and lava tunnels. On the beach you can also find curious pillow-type lavas with coral heads on top! These spheres have a submarine origin before being lifted above sea level. Beaches of white coral sand grow, and holes in the eroding lava fields are filled up with lava sand, which enables rooting. Galapagos sea lions and countless marine iguanas contribute to fertilsation. This all together creates more favourable options for newcomers, like saltbush and the discolouring sesuvium carpet. Colonisation of Chinese Hat can occur in a much higher pace than elsewhere, hence Santiago is just a stone’s throw away. The dinghies will bring you to the touristic pier of Puerto Ayora, from where you will be brought to the Charles Darwin Research Station. This is where biological research and indispensable conservation management of this unique archipelago are carried out. The complex houses interpretation and information centres about the National Park and the Galapagos Marine Reserve. The most memorable part of your visit will probably be the successful breeding centre and the enclosures with Galapagos giant tortoises. Afterwards you usually can spend some free time in the cozy town, before having lunch aboard. Because wild Galapagos giant tortoises don’t stop at official National Park boundaries, dozens of them also roam on the adjacent woodlands in the populated agricultural zone of Santa Cruz. Thanks to their concentration around their favourite muddy pools, these semi-open pastures and moist scalesia-woodlands are the best place for a quick visit.

  7. 7
    Day 7

    The tabletop islet of North Seymour is an uplifted part of the seabed. Between the dry shrubs you might perceive a Galapagos land iguana. You can spot lots of seabirds, such as brown pelicans, red-billed tropicbirds, endemic swallow-tailed gulls and seasonally even Nazca boobies. But the main attraction are the archipelago’s most extensive breeding colonies of blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds. At the start of the breeding season, adult frigatebird males blow up their vivid red pouches to impressive football-sized balloons. After this tour, the dinghy will bring you and your luggage to Baltra, where we take the airport shuttle. Unfortunately, our trip has come to an end and we have to say goodbye, but we hope to see you again soon!

Good to know

You must bring a certificate of health insurance to be allowed entry into Ecuador: it is your responsibility to ensure you are carrying this   Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to return home from your trip It is your responsibility to review and meet the vaccination requirements and visa/immigration requirements for the countries you're visiting Dive accident insurance (to include medical evacuation) is mandatory for everyone who dives: it's your responsibility to have adequate cover in place and to bring your certificate as proof All diving passengers must provide their dive certification card and their logbook: you will be unable to dive unless you can prove you meet the boat's minimum certification level Dive computers are mandatory: please bring your own or arrange with us in advance to rent one Please remember it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to dive: some liveaboards require you to produce a medical certificate, often dated under two years or under a year, proving you can dive safely Itinerary and number of dives are indicative and subject to weather conditions and may change in advance, and during, your trip - safety will always come first. Itinerary changes do not give you the right to cancel your trip Taxes, levies, or surcharges, if applicable, are indicated in the Online Booking System during the checkout process for informational purposes. Supplements, government taxes, marine park fees, fuel surcharges, harbour fees, rental equipment and other upgrades or surcharges are subject to change at any time pre-booking or post-booking. These changes can be driven by local conditions, extreme weather, changes to government policy, operator decisions, oil prices, or other factors. Changes are outside PADI Travel's control and travelers are responsible to pay any increases. A change in these fees or surcharges does not grant travelers the right to cancel a reservation or dispute the surcharges. We recommend you buy travel and trip cancellation insurance (to include storm coverage where appropriate) Ensure you bring suitable electrical adaptors for the country or countries you are visiting In case of a rescheduled booking or a rebooking to a new dive operator, any payments made for the original booking are non-refundable. Beyond that the cancellation terms apply. Travelers are responsible to be aware of covid travel guidelines, local rules, and procedures for the country they are travelling to and to maintain up to date knowledge of any changes regarding entry requirements or local guidelines. Changes with regard to entry requirements to a country are outside of the control of PADI Travel. As such, customers do not have the right to cancel or seek reimbursement if unable to travel due to any updates to a country's entry requirement, airline flights, or other similar situations. PADI Travel Packages do not include travel insurance. PADI Travel strongly recommends that travelers purchase travel insurance. The Service Provider has the right to operate outside of the standard terms and conditions set out in the booking for rescheduled trips. Standard cancellation policies will not apply to rescheduled trips. The Service Provider reserves the right to make any amendments to booked packages prior to trip dates or during trip dates due to, but not limited to, covid related issues or changing restrictions.

Getting there

At the arrival you will have to pay your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and your luggage will be inspected Transfers in Galapagos are included only if the flight has been booked through the operator The airport is close by the harbour Please note that if your directly booked flight arrives earlier to Galapagos than our scheduled flight, you will have to wait at Galapagos airport until arrival of the scheduled flight. If your Galapagos flight arrives later than our scheduled flight, additional transport costs may be applicable to reach the yacht. The same policy applies for your return flight to Quito or Guayaquil. Please note that any missed excursions cannot be claimed when booking your own flights.

What's included

  • ✓ Fins, mask, snorkel (ABC)
  • ✓ Tea
  • ✓ Water
  • ✓ Island tours
  • ✓ Kayak usage
  • ✓ Coffee
  • ✓ Transfer from/to the airport (round-trip and only if flights are booked through operator)
  • ✓ Airport Meet & Greet (only if the flights are booked through the operator)
  • ✓ English-speaking naturalist guide
  • ✕ National park fees
  • ✕ Alcohol
  • ✕ Galapagos transit card
  • ✕ Soft drinks
  • ✕ Domestic flights
  • ✕ Tips for the crew
  • ✕ Service fee (mandatory if domestic flights are not booked through the boat)
  • ✕ Wetsuit

Marine life

Whitetip reef sharkEagle raySting raySea lionHawksbill turtleMarine iguanaOctopusTuna

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