Galapagos cruise on the MV Santa Cruz II

  • The MV Santa Cruz II offers comfortable cruising around the Galapagos Islands

    The MV Santa Cruz II offers comfortable cruising around the Galapagos Islands | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • The ship accommodates 90 guests and crew in spacious cabins

    The ship accommodates 90 guests and crew in spacious cabins | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • Swim and snorkel in the rich waters

    Swim and snorkel in the rich waters | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • You’ll have plenty of opportunity to visit some of the most famous islands in the archipelago

    You’ll have plenty of opportunity to visit some of the most famous islands in the archipelago | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • Enjoy some unforgettable encounters with their remarkable wildlife
  • The Santa Cruz II offers two 5 days itineraries

    The Santa Cruz II offers two 5 days itineraries | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • You'll be served some delicious food on board

    You'll be served some delicious food on board | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

  • The Galapagos archipelago is a place like no other on earth

    The Galapagos archipelago is a place like no other on earth | photo credit: Santa Cruz Galapagos Cruise

Trip ideas

Duration(in days): 5

From: Galapagos

To: Galapagos

From

£3,160

Exc. International flights (per person, based on 2 sharing)

Get a quote

or Call 01273 320580

See more ideas for: Ecuador

The MV Santa Cruz II offers comfortable cruising with a generous five deck craft accommodating spacious cabins for 90 guests and a crew. Luxury ratios of crew and guides to passengers guarantees quality individual attention from a knowledgeable team who have decades of experience working in the islands

The Galapagos archipelago is a place like no other on earth. Its islands emerged from the bottom of the sea in leviathan volcanic upheavals. Winds and competing ocean currents gave origin to life in these remote islands and since Darwin’s visit in 1835, they still inspire and dazzle scientists and visitors alike with their wealth of wildlife species, many endemic to these islands.

Refurbished in 2015, the Santa Cruz II is one of the newest expedition vessels in the Galapagos and was built with modern style and technology to preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem via the latest in sustainable sailing. She boasts five spacious decks with modern interiors and several beautifully designed communal areas and viewing platforms. These include two lounge bars, a library, two indulgent ocean view hot tubs and a gym. There are also separate lecture areas allowing for simultaneous presentations.  There are indoor and outdoor dining options serving creative Ecuadorian and international cuisine.

The Santa Cruz II offers two 5 days options: you can either choose from the Eastern or Northern Galapagos itineraries. Both will offer you the opportunity to visit several islands and encounter the famous wildlife inhabiting them.

Day 1: Arrive in the Galapagos Islands

Depending on which itinerary you choose, you will land at either Baltra or San Cristobal airport in the Galapagos Islands. You will be met by representatives of Santa Cruz II and accompanied to the boat where they will show you to your accommodation. After the introductory talk you will have lunch.

In the afternoon, get ready for your first landing and wildlife encounter!

Day 2 to 4: Galapagos Islands touring

Whether you choose the Eastern or Northern itinerary, over these days you’ll have plenty of opportunity to visit some of the most famous islands in the archipelago. You’ll have some unforgettable encounters with their remarkable wildlife accompanied by the Santa Cruz’s talented naturalist guides who will talk to you about what you see.

The Eastern itinerary will include Santa Fe, Espanola and Santa Cruz islands amongst others, whilst the Northern route will take you to on another route that will include Santiago, Bartolome and Genovesa.

Weather conditions permitting, you’ll have two guided landings per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon and you will spend time taking walks amid the unique natural landscapes and swim and snorkel in the Galapagos’ rich waters.

Day 5: Disembarkation and depart the Galapagos Islands

On your last day, you will disembark at either Baltra or San Cristobal Island and you’ll be taken back to the airport to board your onward flight.

 

The Galapagos Islands are an all year round destination thanks to their equatorial location. In general, June to December is generally called the ‘dry season’ which is known for its blue skies and mid-day showers. During this season, sea mammals and land birds are most active. December to May is considered the ‘warm season’, when the climate is more tropical with daily rain and cloudier skies and the water temperature is warmer for swimming and snorkelling. Island birds are especially active in this season. No matter what time of year you, great wildlife encounters are still guaranteed.

What's included
  • 4 nights in a private cabin on board the Santa Cruz II
  • All meals
  • Return transfers from and to Galapagos airports
  • Guided visits to sites of interest by naturalist guide
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Return transfers from main hotels in Quito and Guayaquil
  • Internet for guests staying in cabins on the Panorama Deck
Not included
  • Flights to/from Galapagos
  • Any service or meal not mentioned
  • Tips of gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park $100 per person (subject to change)
  • Transit card $20 per person (subject to change)
  • Alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks
  • Bottled beverages
  • Wetsuits (available to rent)

 

Private transfers and excursions are available – supplement available on request.

  • 4 nights aboard the MV Santa Cruz II.

The Santa Cruz sleeps 90 guests in 50 contemporary designed cabins split in three decks. Passengers can choose from different cabin layouts and categories. All are built to a high standard and no accommodation is located at sea level or near engines or generators, ensuring a relaxing cabin experience.