Galapagos Islands Luxury Yacht Charter Itinerary

Española Island is known as one of the oldest islands in the Archipelago, with an estimated age of 3.3 million years. The Galapagos albatrosses and marine iguana are just two of the species considered endemic to this island. In addition to unique wildlife, located on a cliff is the amazing blowhole named El Soplador, capable of shooting water 20 to 25 feet high, depending on the intensity of the waves. Garner Bay features a wide open beach located on the north coast of Española Island, home to a large colony of sea lions and a great photo opportunity to catch these endearing animals at play.

Also called Barrington Island, is located in the central part of the Galapagos archipelago. The ascending trail takes visitors to the peak of a cliff where the Santa Fe species of land iguana can be seen. After a long hike, there is nothing better than a swim in the calm waters of the bay or snorkeling in the company of sea lions at the base of the rocks. South Plaza Island is off the east end of Santa Cruz Island. Here about 1,000 sea lions and land iguanas are everywhere. South Plaza Island features a breathtaking perimeter trail through that is easy to follow.

Located north of Baltra is a two-mile trail through low level bush that hosts the largest nesting colony of Great Frigate birds in Galapagos. Blue footed boobies nest along the trail and land iguanas can be viewed in their natural environment. This is also an excellent spot for snorkeling.

Probably the most emblematic visiting sites in The Galapagos are Bartolome Island and Pinnacle Rock due to the dazzling natural beauty and spectacular landscape. Majestic sea turtles and Galapagos penguins favor this location as a nesting site. Visitors can climb all the way to the highest point on the island by means of a wooden stairway that culminates in a breathtaking view. Here too, snorkeling in the bay is an awesome experience.

On the northeastern tip of Fernandina Island a narrow ledge of lava and sand dramatically stretches from the base of the volcano into the sea. Punta Espinoza is famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas. The teaming shoreline is also home to hawks, Galapagos snakes, and many other species. For botany enthusiasts, this is an ideal place to observe the lava cactus (Brachycerus nesioticus) overtaking the lava rocks.

Urbina Bay is located at the eastern base of the Alcedo volcano. The yacht will make a wet landing and guests will disembark to hike a fascinating trail that runs through sand substrates, pumice rock, lava, coral and exotic formations of vegetation including brightly colored cactus.

Located on Isabela Island`s west shore, the marine life found here is extremely interesting. The site is considered one of the best places to observe Galapagos penguins perched on rocky coastal formations. A small mangrove-lined canal emerges into a hidden cove where sea turtles, rays, sea lions, and small sharks are abundant.

Punta Moreno is located on the sensational north coast of Isabela Island with a panoramic view of three volcanoes, Sierra Negra and Cerro Azul on Isabela Island and La Cumbre on Fernandina Island is truly spectacular. There are many species that use the lagoons as a nursery site that often makes viewing especially charming.

This historic site recalls the days of the buccaneers, whalers, and the first human settlement in the Galapagos. Legend has it that in the 18th century a whaling boat captain placed a barrel for mail drop off and and delivery. Spelunkers will be interested in the cave reached via a lava tunnel.

Cormorant Point is located on the north Coast of Floreana Island. A trail leads up to a viewing site overlooking a lagoon that is home to a large colony of flamingos. Continue back down along the path to a white sand beach that is a nesting area for sea turtles and attracts many rays and sea turtles visible just offshore. Devils Crown is renowned for the plentiful varieties of marine life. Located off the coast of Floreana Island, this hollow crater offers amazing snorkeling around and inside the inner part of the crater.

The final day guests must bid farewell to their new friends, splendid yacht and attentive crew. For those guests who have extended their charter vacation with a land segment, the 40 minute drive to the highlands of Santa Cruz from Puerto Ayora offers an opportunity to view astonishing transitions in vegetation according to altitude. Guests may visit a private ranch where tortoises bask in this natural environment of peaceful, small lagoons. Or simply take a short stroll from the town center to capture final photos of iguanas, birds, crabs, whitetip reef sharks and gigantic turtles.