Non-Discounted Departures- will Include Free Return Economy Flights to/from Quito (or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos Islands
Discounted Departures- Receive 2 Free Hotel Nights in Quito (or Guayaquil)
Valid for all available 2025 & 2026 departures (excluding peak Christmas/New Year season)
For new bookings until 31 Oct 2025.
See additional T&Cs below*
STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise
Trip Code: ECACT5DA
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Finish: Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
SHIP: Archipel Catamaran
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, South America
Selected Thursdays
All Meals, Water, Tea & Coffee Onboard Your Galapagos Cruise
Group Transfers In The Galapagos To & From Your Vessel
Cabin onboard a ship
Daily Excursions, Panga Rides, Shore Landings And Expert Briefings While Onboard
*Itinerary Is Subject To Change Depending On Weather Conditions And Government Regulations
Explore the incredible sights of the Galapagos Islands on this 5 day cruise. The Galapagos is teeming with experiences and sights unlike anywhere else in the world. You be left in awe of the sheer diversity of wildlife and natural sights that encompasses this small archipelago. Keep an eye out for a range of endemic animals such as Giant Tortoises and Blue Footed Boobies. Wildlife here is not scared of humans due to the strict regulations in the National Park region and will generally stay still while you take some happy snaps.
Check out the 8 Day West & South Islands Cruise Itinerary onboard the Archipel I
Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be met by a representative who will transfer you to your accommodation. Please note that you will have to pay your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and have your luggage inspected before proceeding.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, where you will have the opportunity to see the tortoises of Española Island up close. This breeding center is dedicated to the conservation of giant tortoises and plays an important role in the preservation of the species. Your tour will end in the tortoise exhibit corral, where you can take photographs with the tortoises. These tortoises are accustomed to humans, so it is an excellent spot for some great pictures!
After breakfast, you will head out to Moreno Point, located on the southwestern coast of Isabela Island. This unique site offers a striking contrast between the fresh, promising greens of pioneer vegetation and the dead, pitch-black lava flow that once reached the ocean. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through this rugged terrain, where you can observe the various species that have adapted to this harsh environment, such as marine iguanas, lava lizards, and Sally Lightfoot crabs.
In the afternoon, you will visit Urbina Bay, which is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the western coast of Isabela Island. This coastal plain is exceptional, attracting prehistoric giants in the wild, such as the largest land iguanas. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through the unique vegetation, where you can spot these impressive creatures in their natural habitat. You may also see Galapagos tortoises, Darwin's finches, and other species that call this area home.
After breakfast, you will head out to Espinoza Point, located on Fernandina Island, which is one of the most pristine and untouched islands in the Galapagos archipelago. Here, you will find some of the most bizarre animal species, products of natural selection. Among them is the flightless cormorant, which after thousands of years isolated here lost the ability to fly and turned its wings into fins. You will also be able to observe marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and Galapagos hawks. This is a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty and diversity of the Galapagos Islands.
In the afternoon, you will visit Vicente Roca Point, located on the northwest coast of Isabela Island. This site is known for its stunning geological formations and unique wildlife. You will enter a dark cave below a spectacular arch, accompanied by the roaring echoes of the waves. The calmer waters inside are well-protected and are a great place for snorkeling amongst various species of sharks, penguins, seahorses and the giant mola-mola. You may also see blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, and fur seals along the shore.
This morning you will visit Puerto Egas, located on the western coast of Santiago Island. This site is historical, and a favorite for wildlife lovers in the Galapagos. It's even considered the best place in the archipelago to observe Galapagos fur seals. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a walk through the coastal trails, where you can observe a variety of species such as marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, Galapagos hawks, and the elusive Galapagos fur seals. You can also enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools formed by the volcanic rocks.
In the afternoon, you will visit Rabida Island, known for its remarkable red beach. Upon landing, you will usually be greeted by a large bachelor colony of Galapagos sea lions. Your naturalist guide will lead you on a hike through the red sand beach, where you can observe the unique flora and fauna of the island, such as brown pelicans, Galapagos hawks, and Darwin's finches. You can also snorkel along the rocky cliffs and spot various species of fish, rays, and sea turtles.
Today is your last day in the Galapagos Islands, and you will start with a visit to Black Turtle Cove. After breakfast, you will board a dinghy and explore this peaceful lagoon, surrounded by mangrove forests. The calm waters make it a perfect place to observe sea turtles, rays, and sharks. Your naturalist guide will explain the importance of the mangrove ecosystem and its role in preserving the biodiversity of the islands.
After, you will disembark at Baltra airport, where you will say goodbye to the crew of your cruise ship before checking in for your flight back to the mainland.
Experience the vast plethora of wildlife within the Galapagos, from blue footed boobies, to flightless cormorants, marine iguanas and the famous Galapagos tortoise.
Cruise through some of the most pristine waters in all of South America if not the world.
A Galapagos itinerary is easily combined with other land based tour in Latin America, such the wonderful colonial city of Quito or even exploring the mysteries of the Ecuadorian Amazon.
Embark on an exceptional Galapagos Island cruise aboard the Archipel catamaran. The ship offers comfortable accommodation for up to 16 passengers in 9 cabins, each featuring private bathrooms and captivating outside views. The catamaran also boasts amenities like a dining room, bar, lounge, library, TV, safety deposit box, and first aid for your convenience and entertainment. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery from the observation deck and spacious sundeck, complete with comfortable chairs for relaxation. Unforgettable adventures await!
Ice Class:
Length: 26.80 m
Breadth: 10.80 mMax
Draft: Cruising
Speed: 10 knots
Electricity: 110V / 220V Passenger
Capacity:16 pax
View Ship Details
Western Islands Cruise A | Archipel I from AUD 6,136 | ||
Selected Thursdays |
*Free Flights to the Galapagos Islands OR 2 Free Hotel Nights Offer
Valid for new bookings made until 31 October 2025 across all available cabins.
High-Season surcharges may apply depending on departure date.
Offer dependent on departure date being Non-Discounted Regular Rate OR Discounted Rate
Non-Discounted Departures- will Include Free Return Economy Flights to/from Quito (or Guayaquil) to the Galapagos Islands
Already Discounted Departures- Receive 2 Complimentary Hotel Nights in Quito (or Guayaquil)
Valid for all available 2025 & 2026 departures (excluding peak Christmas/New Year season)
Flights & Hotel must be booked with cruise operator to qualify for either promotion
Flights can be booked to/from Quito or Guayaquil and will be in economy class
Not combinable with other promotions or discounts
Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Galapagos cruising Experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Galapagos expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure! We can also add pre and post arrangements throughout Latin America to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Please note kayaking and water based activities are subject to weather conditions.
Prices are based on per person, twin share* (unless otherwise stated).
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
*Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions and government regulations.
Accommodation onboard the Archipel I
Transfers in the Galapagos and airport assistance
All meals whilst on-board including snacks
All shore excursions
Guiding and lectures by Galapagos Naturalist Guide
Snorkelling equipment (mask, snorkel & fins)
Use of kayaks
Exclusions
International flights
Return airfares from mainland Ecuador
Visa & reciprocity fees (if applicable)
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee (US$ 200 per person subject to change)
Galapagos Transit Control Card (US$ 20 per person subject to change)
Travel insurance
Beverages other than tea & coffee
Personal expenses such as laundry & onboard communication
Gratuities for the crew
Available upon request. Contact us for more details.
Departure date, currency fluctuation, seasonality & availability