Galapagos Adventure Cruise on Galaxy/Integrity

Outstanding Wildlife Wonders, Expert Leaders & Luxury Yachts

Follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin on this inspirational small-group adventure through the enchanted islands of the Galapagos. Splash with sea turtles and fur sea lions, walk among giant tortoises, flamingos and iguanas, and spot flightless cormorants and endemic wildlife found nowhere else on earth - all under the guidance of your MT Sobek naturalist guide. Hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking offer you astonishing opportunities to get close to the wildlife underwater and on land. After each action-filled day, return to the luxury of your private yacht to rest and re-energize. This classic route takes in the natural wonders of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, Rábida and Sombrero Chino Islands. Please note that actual itinerary routes vary from departure to departure - for more information about the islands each departure will visit, call for details.

To learn more about the Galapagos Islands and what you can expect from MT Sobek boats and adventures, check out our Galapagos Islands portal.

Experience the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Isabela and Fernandina Island, home to endemic flightless cormorants

Anchor your deluxe yacht at nature's doorstep and take Zodiac cruises to remote coves and lagoons

Explore with the best naturalist guides, hand-selected for their experience, dedication, and expertise

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

MT Sobek was one of the first North American companies to bring visitors to the Galápagos Islands, with an inaugural charter for the Sierra Club in 1970.

Reason #02

Guests love our Galápagos adventures because we charter smaller, deluxe yachts for an exclusive experience with our own expert team of naturalist guides.

Reason #03

Our guides and crew work hard maximizing the amount of wildlife encounters both on land and sea, and guides will always be snorkeling with you.

Meet your guides

Luis Die

Luis was born in Seville, Spain, and graduated from the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid with a degree in Environmental Biology. He is fluent in Spanish, English, and French and has guided in Galapagos since 1999. In addition to being a professional nature photographer, Luis has a Master's Degree in Geographic Ecology and is active with conservation groups. A born teacher, he enthusiastically shares his knowledge of Galapagos with people of all ages. He lives in Quito with his wife, twin sons, and daughter and is MT Sobek's head naturalist guide.

Greg Estes

Greg arrived in Galapagos in 1982 leading the Cambridge Darwin Centenary Galapagos Expedition to conduct research on the feeding ecology of marine iguanas. After graduating from the University of London, with an honors degree in Biology, Greg's research in Galapagos has encompassed a wide range of ecological projects, including studies on sperm whales and the endangered Galapagos petrel. Greg and his wife have retraced Darwin's footsteps through Galapagos using information from his original notebooks and manuscripts of the famous voyage.

Fernando Ortiz

Fernando is an Ecuadorian marine biologist who has worked and lived in Galapagos for over 25 years. An accomplished diver, he has than 5,000 dives in the Galapagos, Ecuador, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Baja California, Palau, Malaysia, Caño Island in Costa Rica. He joined Conservation International in 2005 after working for the Galapagos National Park as Head of the Department of Control and Conservation of Marine Ecosystems. After a few years working in different government institutions and NGOs, Fernando returned to guiding to re-encounter the environment he is so passionate about.

Activities

Island cruising by deluxe yacht with daily Zodiac excursions to explore hidden coves. Hike, snorkel, kayak, and swim among unique endemic wildlife.

Lodging

Luxurious comfort aboard a sleek and modern yacht with a full crew to cater to your every need. Also includes an upscale hotel in Quito.

Climate

Mild climate year-round. Dec-May has daytime temperatures 76-86°F and water temperatures of 70-75°F. Jun-Nov has daytime temperatures of 67-77°F and water temperatures of 65-72°F.

FAQ

When and where should I arrive?

Arrive in Quito any time on Day 1. An MT Sobek representative will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Most flights from the US arrive late at night.

How qualified are your guides in the Galapagos?

Our Galapagos Naturalist Guides are all rated Level 3 by the Galapagos National Park, which is the highest level of qualification, and means each guide has passed the Naturalist Level II course certifying that he/she has expert knowledge of the Galapagos Islands. This level guide will also hold a university degree in biology, biology related fields, and/or tourism, and must be fluent in 3 languages.

What is the difference between Eastern and Western islands?

You might hear about Western and Eastern Islands in the Galapagos. Western islands are newer geologically-speaking with active volcanoes and lava landscapes. Here you are more likely to see flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, whales and dolphins. Eastern islands also have volcanic origin but they are older and have more vegetation growth. Here you are more likely to see waved albatross, red footed boobies, land iguanas, penguins and sharks.

When is the best time to go to the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands are a year-round destination, with something to see and do every month. The warmer season is the best time for warmer, calmer seas and good underwater visibility. The water is choppiest in September. Late spring brings the mating and nesting season for frigate birds and blue-footed boobies!

What is the difference between the ship types?

MT Sobek offers a variety of motorized yachts and catamarans ranging from deluxe to luxury. Each of the ships carry a maximum of 16-guests, ensuring a personalized experience and on-going small-group discussion with our Naturalist Guides. All of our ships come with a highly experienced and professional crew. Each of the ships are fully air-conditioned, come with the highest safety standards, and can boast excellent cuisine.

Am I able to extend my stay before or after my Galapagos cruise?

Absolutely! There are several ways to extend your stay in Ecuador and Peru before and after the trip. We recommend a 4 or 5 day excursion to the Sacha Jungle Lodge in the Upper Amazon Rainforest, where we see toucans and monkeys among many other creatures. Or visit the Hacienda Zuleta and Otavalo Market on our 2 or 3 day extension. Many people choose to explore Cusco and Machu Picchu on our 5-day extension in Peru, or explore the Mindo Cloud Forest on a 2 or 3 days extension.

How Does MT Sobek Support Conservation in the Galapagos?

MT Sobek is a proud supporting travel partner of the Galapagos Conservancy. All of our highly-experienced naturalist guides are also active in conservation and work closely with the Galapagos National Park.

Can I Charter a Yacht for a Private Adventure?

Yes, you can! Private charters are a great option for families and large groups. For more details, please call our Regional Galapagos Specialists at 1-888-831-7526.

Testimonials

"I've traveled around the world and always took pride in my ability to research and inform myself about my destination. No amount of research would have been able to give me the experience that travelling the Galapagos w MT Sobek did. As we finished this trip I looked back and wondered how much more incredible my previous trips would have been had I done them with MT Sobek."

Lindsay P.
MT Sobek Guest, Galapagos

"The entire trip was outstanding including the destination, the trip itinerary, MT Sobek's organization, the crew, and our guide. The Galápagos as a travel destination is truly majestic."

Patrick A.
MT Sobek Guest, Galapagos