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Navigating the Diverse Southwestern Volcanic Archipelago
7 Days
Friday to Thursday
12 of 15
Galapagos Iconic Species
From
USD 7,867
per guest
Set forth on a transformative expedition with our Darwin’s Legacy expedition, where the spirit of Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking discoveries comes to life. This itinerary takes you into the heart of the southwestern Galapagos, a region forged by recent tectonic upheavals and rich with geological wonders that are teeming with life.
In the southwestern Galapagos, you’ll witness the true origins of the archipelago, a land where volcanic forces have sculpted a dramatic and otherworldly landscape, and also—a land where recent creation unfolds. Fernandina Island, our first destination, is renowned as one of the most untouched environments on the planet, where life continues to evolve in isolation, entirely immune from human influence. This region provides remarkable glimpses into the unique adaptations of the local wildlife, which is complemented by a visit to the Charles Darwin at the Research Station—a site where we’ll get to learn more about the intricate science that’s at play in the Galapagos. Ultimately, the pristine environments on this trip, many of which are untouched by human intervention, are guaranteed to reveal nature’s adaptability and resilience.
Each stop on our journey through the southwestern volcanic region of archipelago reveals a different aspect of the Galapagos’ dynamic ecosystem, making this expedition a comprehensive and awe-inspiring exploration of one of the world’s most unique and evolving natural environments!
Baltra Island
North Seymour Island
Afternoon visit to North Seymour Island
Walk along coast and inland to see birds, sea lions, and land iguanas
Optional dinghy ride for coastal exploration
Evening briefing, welcome cocktail, and dinner onboard
Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island)
Explore Punta Vicente Roca by panga, no landing site
Naturalists highlight lava flows and tuff stone formations
Spot diverse wildlife during the ride
Snorkel along cliffs if conditions allow, with chances to see green sea turtles
Punta Espinoza (Fernandina Island)
Afternoon visit to Fernandina Island, the youngest in the archipelago
Explore Punta Espinoza’s stark yet wildlife-rich landscapes
Spot Galapagos hawks, penguins, and flightless cormorants
Admire volcanic scenery and dramatic coastal views
Urbina Bay (Isabela Island)
Morning visit to Urbina Bay on Isabela Island
Explore uplifted seafloor with corals, shells, and land iguanas
Possible sightings of giant tortoises
Learn about geology and evolution, like Darwin did
Watch for whales while crossing the Bolívar Channel
Tagus Cove (Isabela Island)
Visit historic Tagus Cove, once used by pirates and whalers
Hike uphill to view Darwin Crater, a saltwater-filled formation
Snorkel or kayak in the bay’s clear waters
Enjoy scenic landscapes and a memorable trek
Rabida Island
Morning landing at Rabida Island’s red sand beach
Spot marine iguanas, mockingbirds, warblers, and Darwin’s finches
Snorkel directly from the beach
Glass-bottom boat option for non-snorkelers
Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island)
Visit Dragon Hill on northern Santa Cruz
Walk around a brackish lagoon with diverse birdlife
Inland trail offers panoramic bay and island views
Spot iconic Galapagos land iguanas
Puerto Ayora & Charles Darwin Research Station
Morning visit to Charles Darwin Research Station
Explore facilities and giant tortoise pens
Learn about conservation and scientific work in the Galapagos
Enjoy lunch on the island
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Afternoon visit to the lush highlands of Santa Cruz
Spot Darwin’s finches and unique Scalesia trees
Observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat
Visit a tortoise reserve for close encounters
Return to the yacht in the evening
Post Office Bay
Panga ride through Floreana’s north shore channels
Visit Baroness Cove for stunning coastal views
Stop at historic Post Office Bay with its two-century-old barrel
Learn about the 1835 Beagle expedition observation
Optional kayaking and snorkeling at Post Office Bay
Champion Islet & Punta Cormorant
Snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat ride near Champion Islet
Afternoon visit to Punta Cormorant’s olivine-crystal beach
Walk by a brackish lagoon with greater flamingos
Visit white-sand beach known for sea turtle nesting at night
Prices in 2025
Starting at USD 7,867 per guest
Prices in 2026
Starting at USD 7,946 per guest
Please select the year first, then click on the date that suits you best.
Because the Galapagos Islands are so extensive, picking where to visit and what to see can be difficult. To create our itineraries and enable guests to see the best balance of Galapagos species, we spoke with researchers, Naturalist Guides, and island aficionados to select the archipelago’s most unique and fascinating animals. Their choices inspired our Galapagos BIG15, which features the most iconic Galapagos wildlife.
Choose expedition vessels for an authentic and intimate experience.
Consider the comfort level with the ideal space-to-guest ratio during your journey.
All our itineraries allow you to discover 12 to 15 of the Big 15 iconic species and the top 4 islands in just 5 to 7 days.
Take part in the multi-guided itineraries for a unique experience of the Galapagos Islands.
Our carefully designed itineraries guarantee exclusivity and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities during island visits.
Enjoy multiple activities around the islands at no extra cost during your Galapagos expedition.
Rest assured, our Galapagos cruise ships have onboard medical professionals to attend to any medical needs.
Ensure the Galapagos National Park authorizes your cruise for activities and island visits.
Reminder: We can assist with tickets and fees for entry to Galapagos.
“Melissa has been fantastic! She answers all my questions, gets back to me quickly, and has mapped out a wonderful trip for us. I couldn’t be happier with the service I have received.”
– Mary Kabat
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