Galápagos Expedition Aboard Ecoventura Evolve

 https://ecoventura.com

Embark on an Arlington Club exclusive 8-day luxury expedition cruise through the southern and central Galapagos Islands, one of the most biodiverse and awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. Traveling aboard one of Ecoventura’s Relais & Châteaux-designated yachts—Evolve—you’ll experience the Galapagos as few ever do. These floating five-star boutique hotels set a new standard with exceptional itineraries, gourmet cuisine, and thoughtfully curated experiences that elevate every moment.

Each day unveils a new ecological marvel: lounge alongside playful sea lions, hike among waved albatrosses on Española, or snorkel with penguins, rays, and marine iguanas. Enjoy guided nature walks, immersive cultural moments, and enriching conservation insights, all while indulging in refined comfort, gracious service, and world-class gastronomy. Whether you’re mailing a postcard the old-fashioned way at Post Office Bay or sipping a sundowner on deck after an unforgettable day, this journey connects you to the wild spirit and timeless magic of the Galapagos.

As this is a private charter planned exclusively for Arlington Club, we are currently in the pre-sale phase to secure the vessel well in advance. Due to the high demand and limited availability of luxury yachts in the Galápagos, a deposit is required upfront to hold the ship on our behalf.

While the trip is still some time away, your early commitment ensures we can confirm this experience for the group. Details on deposit amount, timing, and terms can be found below—and of course, we’re here to answer any questions as you consider joining us on this unforgettable journey.

Pre-Cruise Travel Note
Please be aware that all guests are required to overnight in either Quito or Guayaquil the evening prior to the cruise departure. While we’re happy to assist with hotel arrangements and domestic flights to San Cristóbal for embarkation, these services are not included in the cruise fare or deposit. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help coordinate accordingly.

- Snorkel with Penguins & Sea Lions at Bartolomé and Punta Pitt

- Up-close Encounters with Giant Tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz and at Cerro Colorado Breeding Center

- See All Three Booby Species (Blue-footed, Red-footed, and Nazca) in one place at Punta Pitt
- Hike to the Panoramic Summit of Bartolomé for sweeping volcanic views
- Visit the Iconic Kicker Rock & Devil’s Crown—top snorkeling spots teeming with marine life
- Spot Flamingos, Sea Turtles & Rays at Floreana’s lagoons and beaches

- Contribute to Conservation with native tree planting through Ecoventura’s Green Team initiative
- Evenings Onboard with themed parties, cocktails, stargazing, and Ecuadorian cuisine
- Cultural Immersion: Charles Darwin Research Station, Post Office Bay, and agrotourism experiences in San Cristobal 

To confirm your space aboard the Evolve yacht, a deposit is required as outlined below:
 

Payment Schedule

• July 15, 2026: Second payment of $3,000 per person
   

• October 15, 2026: Remaining balance due
   

Cancellation Policy

• Fully Refundable Until September 10, 2025: You may cancel for any reason and receive a full refund of your deposit, less the $150 per person administrative fee.
   

• Non-Refundable After September 10, 2025: Cancellations made on or after this date will result in forfeiture of the entire deposit. No exceptions unless covered by your travel insurance policy.
   

Important Note
Once additional payments are submitted, all funds become non-refundable. In the event of cancellation after these payments are made, the full cruise fare will be forfeited. We strongly encourage securing travel protection to safeguard your investment.

Pre-Cruise Travel & Flight Planning for Galápagos Embarkation

Guests will arrange their own international airfare to/from Ecuador.

To ensure a smooth embarkation, all guests must arrive in either Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) no later than the evening of January 23, 2027. An overnight stay on the mainland is required prior to the cruise departure on January 24, 2027.

On embarkation day, flights from mainland Ecuador to San Cristóbal Island (SCY) will be arranged directly through Ecoventura for our group. These flights are not included in the cruise fare, but will be coordinated as a group booking to ensure smooth transfers and timing alignment with the vessel.

Current estimated round-trip fares (subject to change) are:

• Quito / Galápagos / Quito: $500 per person

• Quito / Galápagos / Guayaquil: $476 per person

• Guayaquil / Galápagos / Quito: $468 per person

• Guayaquil / Galápagos / Guayaquil: $445 per person

Final flight assignments and exact timings will be confirmed closer to departure.

If departing to the US or elsewhere on the final day of the cruise:

• Guests flying internationally from Guayaquil (GYE) should schedule flights no earlier than 4:00 PM.
• Guests flying internationally from Quito (UIO) should schedule flights no earlier than 6:00 PM.

These timeframes align with the group flight schedule from San Cristóbal and allow adequate connection time upon arrival to the mainland.

Choosing Between Quito and Guayaquil
Both Quito and Guayaquil are international gateways to the Galápagos and offer different advantages depending on your preferences for accessibility, climate, and travel style.

If you would like assistance booking your international flights, contact Alyssa Willard at 503-636-5684 or at alyssa@travelcruisedesk.com.

 Ease of Access

Guayaquil is the more direct option for Galápagos travel. Located closer to the islands, it offers non-stop flights to San Cristóbal that are typically shorter (~1.5 hours) and more frequent. The airport is conveniently located just 15 minutes from downtown.

Quito sits further inland and at a higher elevation. Flights from Quito to the Galápagos typically connect through Guayaquil, making travel time longer. However, Quito's airport offers convenient late-night connections for those arriving from the U.S. The airport is approximately 50 minutes from downtown.
 

 Climate & Altitude Considerations

Guayaquil, at sea level, has a warm, tropical climate year-round. This coastal environment mirrors the Galápagos climate and offers a smoother transition to island life.

Quito, at an elevation of 9,350 feet, has a cooler, spring-like climate and may require a jacket or sweater. While it offers a charming Andean experience, travelers sensitive to altitude may prefer Guayaquil’s sea-level location.
 

If you have a strong preference for either destination—or are interested in adding a pre- or post-cruise experience in Quito or Guayaquil—let us know. We’re happy to help tailor your journey to your comfort and interests.

Because this is a private charter cruise, all payments are made well in advance and are non-refundable once submitted. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel protection to safeguard your investment. While we do not sell insurance directly, reputable providers such as TravelSafe or Faye offer excellent options, including “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage.

You are welcome to use any provider you feel comfortable with—just be sure the policy aligns with your personal risk tolerance and covers key areas such as medical emergencies, trip interruption, or unforeseen changes to your plans.

Guided Shore Excursions
1 – Easy: Walk on even terrain or beach
2 – Moderate: Trail with mostly firm terrain
3 – Rocky: Trail with moderate landing and climbing
4 – Difficult: Steep, rocky trail or natural stairs
5 – Challenging: Long, rocky trail with loose or slippery rocks

Snorkeling Excursions
1 – Easy: Enter water from the beach in shallow, calm conditions
2 – Advanced: Enter water from a Zodiac into deeper water; may include currents and requires prior snorkeling experience

Welcome to Ecuador!

Please be aware that all guests are required to overnight in either Quito or Guayaquil the evening prior to the cruise departure.

While we’re happy to assist with hotel arrangements and domestic flights to San Cristóbal for embarkation, these services are not included in the cruise fare or deposit. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll help coordinate accordingly.

Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (SCY) on San Cristóbal Island, where your guides will escort you to the Evolve. After boarding via Zodiac and settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome briefing, safety drill, and lunch.

Later, cruise to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), a dramatic tuff cone formation perfect for sunset photos and birdwatching—look for blue-footed and Nazca boobies and frigatebirds.

Guests may also visit La Galapaguera de Cerro Colorado, a giant tortoise breeding center. End the evening with a cocktail reception and elegant welcome dinner onboard.

Important Note:
Flights to SCY from either Quito or Guayaquil is not included in the cruise package and must be arranged separately. We are happy to assist with booking accommodations and airport transfers upon request. 

Morning: Zodiac along Cerro Brujo (Wizard Hill) to spot brown pelicans, noddy terns, blue-footed boobies, and colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs. Land on a white coral-sand beach to walk, swim with sea lions, and practice snorkeling in calm water.

Afternoon: Land at Punta Pitt for a moderate rocky hike—see all three boobies (blue-footed, red-footed, Nazca), plus frigates and more. Snorkel Pitt Rock with sea lions and tropical reef fish (King Angelfish, Surgeonfish).

Evening: Sail past distant Kicker Rock; enjoy snacks, local craft beer, and guided stargazing after dinner aboard Evolve.

Difficulty Levels 

 - Zodiac wildlife tour at Cerro Brujo (Easy – 1)
- Beach walk and snorkel from shore (Easy – 1)
- Hike at Punta Pitt (Difficult – 4)
- Snorkeling at Pitt Rock (Moderate – 2)

Morning – Punta Suarez, Española Island:
Explore Punta Suarez, one of the richest wildlife sites in the Galápagos. Look for marine iguanas in vivid mating colors, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and birds like Nazca boobies, Galápagos hawks, and swallow-tailed gulls. Walk to a dramatic blowhole for stunning coastal views.

Back onboard, enjoy a BBQ lunch on deck (weather permitting) and a hands-on Ecuadorian ceviche demonstration. 

Optional enrichment talk follows on Galápagos marine currents or island geology.

Afternoon – Gardner Islet & Gardner Bay:
Snorkel at Gardner Islet, known for marine caves teeming with invertebrates. Then land at Gardner Bay, a postcard-perfect beach with sea lion colonies. Choose from beach snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or a relaxing nature walk to spot Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and more.

Return to the yacht for a briefing and dinner onboard.

Difficulty Levels

- Hike at Punta Suarez (Very Difficult – 5)
- Wildlife viewing: albatross, iguanas, hawks (Very Difficult – 5)
- Snorkeling at Gardner Islet (Moderate – 2)

Morning – Punta Cormorant & Devil’s Crown:
Step ashore on the olive-hued sands of Punta Cormorant and follow a scenic trail to a lagoon frequented by flamingos and wading birds. Visit a nesting beach where sea turtles lay their eggs (in season), and spot rays gliding through the shallows. Then snorkel at Devil’s Crown or Champion Islet—top-rated sites teeming with reef fish, white-tipped sharks, sea stars, and colorful coral.

Afternoon – Post Office Bay & Baroness Point:
Experience a Galápagos tradition at Post Office Bay by dropping off a postcard - no postage required! Continue to Baroness Point for a Zodiac or paddleboard adventure along the coast, where you may spot sea turtles, rays, and sea lions.

Return to the yacht for an espresso martini toast and a relaxed dinner onboard.

Important Notes:

- Snorkeling available: Devil’s Crown or Champion Islet
- Wildlife sightings may include: sea lions, flamingos, turtles, rays, and reef sharks
- Optional activity: Participate in the Post Office Bay tradition
- Footwear: Wet landing; walking shoes or sandals recommended

- Fitness: Moderate activity level; uneven terrain and water entry

Difficulty Levels

- Beach walk and lagoon visit at Punta Cormorant (Moderate – 2)
- Snorkeling at Devil’s Crown or Champion Islet (Moderate – 2)
- Walk and postcard drop at Post Office Bay (Easy – 1)
- Paddleboard or Zodiac at Baroness Point (Easy – 1)

Morning – Santa Cruz Highlands:

Awaken in vibrant Academy Bay, then head inland by private bus to explore the lush highlands of Santa Cruz. Visit Rancho Primicias or El Chato, where you’ll walk among giant tortoises in their natural habitat and explore fascinating underground lava tunnels. Join the “Green Team” and plant a native tree—a meaningful contribution to Galápagos reforestation efforts. Next, visit Los Gemelos, two massive volcanic craters surrounded by scalesia forest.

Return to the yacht for lunch and a fascinating onboard lecture on island ecology, evolution, or endemic species.

Afternoon – Charles Darwin Research Station & Puerto Ayora:
In the afternoon, visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center and Charles Darwin Research Station, home to hatchlings, juvenile tortoises, and the preserved remains of Lonesome George, a symbol of conservation. Learn about the legacy of Super Diego, who fathered hundreds of offspring to save his species. Afterwards, enjoy free time in Puerto Ayora to browse local boutiques and artwork.

Guests may opt to remain in town for dinner at a local restaurant (on own), or return to the yacht for a gourmet multi-course meal onboard.

Optional dinner ashore tonight—Zodiac transfers provided, subject to sea conditions and captain’s discretion.

Difficulty Levels:

- Highlands visit: tortoise ranches and lava tunnels (Moderate – 2)
- Reforestation activity (tree planting) (Moderate – 2)
- Los Gemelos volcanic craters (Moderate – 2)
- Charles Darwin Research Station & Breeding Center (Moderate – 2)

Morning – Bartolomé Island:
Wake up surrounded by volcanic beauty. Choose between a challenging hike up 400 wooden steps to Bartolomé’s summit for a spectacular view of Pinnacle Rock, or a Zodiac ride around the island to spot Galápagos Penguins.

Difficulty Levels

- Hike to viewpoint (400 steps) on Bartolome (Difficult – 4)
- Zodiac ride alternative around Bartolome (Easy – 1)
- Snorkeling from the beach (Easy – 1)

Later, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters alongside tropical fish, reef sharks, and penguins. Return for a BBQ lunch on deck (weather permitting) and a fun cooking demo.

Afternoon – Island Exploration:
- Evolve: Enjoy a scenic Zodiac ride through Black Turtle Cove, gliding past mangroves while spotting turtles and rays.

Difficulty Levels

- Sombrero Chino (walk and snorkel) (Moderate – 3 / 2)
- Playa Las Bachas (walk and snorkel) (Easy – 1 / 1)
- Black Turtle Cove (Zodiac ride) (Easy – 1)
 

Wrap up the day with sunset Ecuadorian cocktails, a briefing, and a pirate-themed party (optional fun after dinner!).

Special Note: Don your best pirate flair tonight. Costumes encouraged but not required!

Morning – South Plaza Island:
Explore this uplifted islet featuring tall cliffs and a vibrant landscape dotted with Opuntia (prickly pear) cacti. Conservation efforts are visible, with young cacti protected by nets. Spot land iguanas, bachelor sea lions, and nesting sites for birds like swallow-tailed gulls, red-billed tropicbirds, and shearwaters. Your guide will highlight the differences between land and marine iguanas. Optional deep-water snorkeling offers a chance to see sea lions, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish.

Afternoon – North Seymour Island:
Arrive at one of the best spots to see Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds, especially during mating season when males inflate their iconic red throat sacs. Walk among colonies of blue-footed boobies and land iguanas. This is a prime location to observe courtship displays and unique island behaviors.

Evening Onboard:
Join your captain for a farewell champagne toast followed by an elegant, multi-course dinner. The day ends with a presentation of your week’s highlights — a memorable close to your Galápagos adventure.

Notes:

- Last deep-water snorkel opportunity today.
- Frigatebird mating displays peak seasonally but can be seen year-round.
- Final onboard celebration with a festive toast and slideshow recap of your trip.

Difficulty Levels:

- South Plaza hike and wildlife viewing (Moderate – 3)
- Walk among frigatebirds at North Seymour (Moderate – 3)
- Snorkeling in deeper water (Moderate – 2)

After breakfast, disembark in San Cristobal for a final stop at the Interpretation Center, offering insight into the human and natural history of the Galápagos. A short walk along a paved trail allows for reflection on the week’s journey. Before your flight, relax in Ecoventura’s private hospitality suite with light refreshments — your VIP lounge before transfer to the airport.

Difficulty Level:  Easy – 1

You’ll head home with unforgettable memories of your time in this extraordinary archipelago.

Special Notes:

- Flight back to the mainland is not included.
- Ecoventura provides a private lounge for your comfort before departure.
- Expect time to freshen up, reflect, and prepare for the journey home.