There’s few things more spectacular than sailing the limpid blue waters of the Galapagos Islands, hopping from island to island—each island with its own habitat, wildlife and landscape. And there’s no better way to cruise than onboard Ecoventura’s MV Theory. The Theory embodies the soul of the Galapagos in many ways, incorporating environmental sustainability and fuel efficiency as well as the archipelago’s well-known ability to provide unequalled adventure.
Rather than finding your Galapagos explorations stymied by beaches, use them as a launching point as you explore more of the archipelago’s volcanic islands. Discover the islands’ secrets, otherworldly landscapes, breathtaking geologic formations and the world’s friendliest wildlife as you travel in comfort. Wake up to the sparkling waters of the Galapagos in your spacious room with its panoramic windows, and never miss the sight of a passing dolphin as you relax on the sundeck with a sundowner. Few things are as thrilling, unique and memorable as exploring the enchanted Galapagos Islands, and there’s no better way to explore more than onboard the Theory.
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Itinerary
Day 8 Day A Cruise
8 Day A Cruise (Southern/Central Route ) Overview
Spend eight days exploring the islands and their unique wildlife that inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution aboard a luxury yacht.
Cruise through some of the archipelago’s most stunning islands, including Española, Floreana, South Plaza, Sombrero Chino and several others. Each day brings new views and new island adventures as you explore lunar landscapes and glittering coastlines. Kayak, snorkel, standup paddle board and hike you way through this fascinating paradise where wildlife pay humans no mind and every landscape is photo-hungry. Our naturalist guides accompany you on every expedition, teaching you about the islands’ incredible array of biodiversity and enriching your experience. Exploring the Galapagos Islands onboard our yacht goes beyond a glossed showcase of nature—you truly experience all the wonders they have to offer both on deck and off.
- See departure dates below (dates and rates tab)
- Starting at $7.850 per person
Day 1 - Arrive in San Cristóbal, Welcome Dinner
Fly into San Cristóbal Island, where you’re met at the airport and transferred to the waiting Ecoventura yacht. After boarding, settle in and enjoy a brief safety orientation and a fresh buffet lunch. Your Galapagos Islands adventure begins with a visit to Cerro Tijeratas, or Frigatebird Hill, where you discover nesting colonies of Great and Magnificent frigatebirds, striking lava lizards, the San Cristóbal mockingbird and one of Darwin’s own ground finches. After you’ve explored the area, we walk to Punta Carola, where you can appreciate some of the Galapagos Island’s famous scenic views and possibly go for a snorkel to see what marine life lies under the waves. This evening, return to the yacht and enjoy a welcoming dinner and party.
Day 2 - Wildlife viewing Punta Pitt, Cerro Brujo
After a delicious breakfast onboard our yacht, venture ashore to one of the Galapagos Island’s best bird watching sites: Punta Pitt, a volcanic tuff formation where blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca boobies nest alongside storm petrals, brown pelicans, Magnificent and Great frigatebirds and more. Explore the unique geologic formation and enjoy the colorful birds around you as well as the frolicking colony of sea lions. After, we continue to Pitt Rock where we swim and snorkel alongside sea lions and colorful fish. You might even be lucky enough to spot an exotic Surgeon fish or King Angel fish.
This afternoon, relax at the white coral beach of Cerro Brujo, where you may soak in the sun, fit in some birdwatching, take another dip with sea lions, or take off on stand-up paddle board or in a kayak to see what lies further off the shoreline. Later, hop into a zodiac to explore The Cathedral, a unique cave, before returning to the yacht for another gourmet dinner.
Day 3 - Snorkel, Swim and Relax on Española’s Punta Suarez
Explore another one of the Galapagos archipelago’s stunning islands today as you disembark at Española’s Punta Suarez. More endemic species are found on Española island than anywhere else in the Galapagos, so keep on the lookout. Sea lions and blue-footed boobies greet you, and if you travel from April-December, you have a chance to witness the mating ritual of the waved Albatross—an exciting opportunity only seen on Española Island.
Beyond a wealth of birdlife, including the world’s only nocturnal gulls, you can find unique species of marine iguanas you can spot by their green and red coloring as well as sally lightfoot crabs leading the way to a ocean blow-hole.
This afternoon, continue to Gardner Bay, where colonies of sea lions bark in chorus as you stroll along the white sand beach. Take you pick of activities as you choose to swim with the sea lions, hop in a Zodiac to explore the surrounding caves and the invertebrates who live there or see what islets you can discover by kayak. Later, slip on a snorkel at Tortuga Rock, where a wide variety of marine life gather. This evening, relax on the deck with a sundowner before dinner back on the yacht.
Day 4 - Discover Floreana Island
We continue our island hopping with a stop to explore Floreana Island. Venture to Punta Cormorant, an olive-sand beach where Galapagos birds flock in droves. You can see lava herons, blue-footed penguins, and yellow-crowned night herons here hopping alongside the Galapagos penguins and the sea lions. Explore the rich landscape, dotted with mangroves, carpets of bright Scalesia, palo verde, cut-leaf daisies and morning glory.
For many, the highlight of the morning may be following a trail to a brackish lagoon, where flamingos, stilts and Galapagos flycatchers may be seen, before continuing to a secluded beach where sea turtles lay there eggs. Off the sun-warmed sand dunes where turtles come ashore, sting rays often swim in the shallower waters here. Later, snip on a snorkel or go for a dip at Devil’s Crown, a sunken crater where white-tipped sharks, spotted eagle rays and sea stars gather alongside coral and sea stars.
After returning to the yacht to enjoy a deckside lunch, we head to Floreana—one of the Galapagos Islands’ few populated islands as well as the one with the most mysterious history. Head ashore and visit some Galapagos top sites such as Post Office Bay, where 18th century whalers established a post office in a barrel. After viewing the sites, you may also stop for a swim on the beach. This afternoon takes you on a Zodiac excursion to Baroness Point in search of sting rays and sea turtles. Return to the yacht for another night of comfort and incredible Ecuadorian cuisine.
Day 5 - Tour Santa Cruz and Charles Darwin Research Station
Today takes you to the bustling social hub of the Galapagos Islands: Santa Cruz Island. Step ashore at Puerto Ayora, its biggest city, and then travel by bus to the lush green of the highlands. Here, you’ll discover the giant Galapagos tortoises during a visit to Rancho El Manzanillo, a hacienda where they freely roam in their natural habitat. The day’s adventures continue with a stop at some of the Galapagos Islands’ most stunning volcanic sites: the large pit craters known as Los Gemelos, or the twins, as well as the lava tunnels of El Mirador.
After lunch on board our yacht, we continue our day of wildlife with a visit to the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena, what was formerly the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you can explore the breeding center and giant tortoise corals where hatchlings and baby tortoises grow in safety before being repatriated into the wild. Next up, learn about the Islands’ culture as you stop at a local chocolate store, where you see how Ecuadorians produce the famed Arriba cacao, and stroll through Puerto Ayora’s lively streets. You may continue your adventures tonight and remain ashore for dinner at a local restaurant of your choosing or return to the yacht for dinner. Transportation from the main dock to our yacht are offered throughout the evening.
Day 6 - Chinese Hat and Bartolomé Island
Our yacht sails you to the small island of Sombrero Chino, or Chinese Hat, sitting off of Santiago today. Walk along the sea lion studded shore and continue on a trail leading through an otherwordly landscape of lava tubes, volcanic rubble and jagged lava formations. Oystercatchers and marine iguanas in particular love the sun-baked lava fields here. Our trail takes you to a secluded snorkel side where large colonies of Galapagos penguins hop along the rock and surf.
Our day’s adventures continue on the young island, Bartolomé, where the islands’ volcanic origins are beautifully evident. Take in the lunar landscape of splatter cones, lava bombs and cinder comes as you ascend a wooden staircase to the summit of Bartolomé’s dormant volcano. From the top, you can see panoramic views of the entire island as well as the iconic Pinnacle Rock. After returning to the shore, cool off with a Zodiac ride along the rocky shore, where tropical fish, penguins and white-tipped reef sharks roam. Your day concludes back at the yacht, where you can enjoy the sunset before sitting down to a delicious dinner.
Day 7 - Explore South Plaza, Farewell Cocktail Party
Our last full day of your Galapagos vacation takes you to South Plaza, whose tall cliffs are lined with red-billed tropicbirds, shearwaters and swallow-failed gulls. Hike through a desert landscape of Opuntia prickly pear trees and Sesuvium, where you can often spot land iguanas munching away on cactus leaves or enjoying the shade. You also come across a sprawling colony of bachelor sea lions, where you can find scars dotting the massive bodies of the dominant bulls who have battled over the best beach territory.
We take a break with lunch before cooling off with a snorkel in the deep water channels between North and South Seymour Islands. After, we explore North Seymour’s geological uplift where blue-footed boobies, land iguanas, and swallow-tailed gulls build their nests, marine iguanas lounge in the sun and sea lions surf the waves. You also come across the largest colony of Magnificent frigatebirds to be found throughout the Galapagos Islands. After your day in the sun, return to the yacht for a farewell cocktail party and dinner.
Day 8 - San Cristóbal’s Interpretation Center, return to Ecuador
Complete your Galapagos Island vacation with a trip to San Cristóbal’s interpretation center, where you can appreciate the archipelago’s impressive biodiversity and the depth of its human and natural history. You have some time to explore the port before meeting your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
7 DAY/6 NIGHT CRUISE (SUNDAY TO SATURDAY)
Guests may choose to depart on Saturday, one day early, in Baltra if they prefer a 6-night cruise.
Note: For guests who choose to depart on Saturday and require guide-accompanied private transfer services to the airport, there will be an additional charge of $50 per person or $200 maximum. The return flight from Baltra also incurs an additional fee of $27/person and is subject to availability. Confirmation is requested.
For guests who remain in Santa Cruz until departing Saturday, there are no additional fees. Guests have a 6 am drop off at Itabaca Canal and must arrange transportation to Puerto Ayora via their hotel.
TWO-CONSECUTIVE WEEK ITINERARY
Book two back-to-back trips to experience the Galapagos as few can—comprehensively. No two tours are the same!
Day 8 Day B Cruise
8 Day B Cruise (Western/ Northern Route) Overview
An 8-day cruise of the Galapagos Islands holds indescribable views and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to witness and interact with the world’s friendliest wildlife.
The secluded Galapagos Islands are home to one of the world’s most diversified ecosystems, with each island holding its own unique attractions. Cruise on our luxury yacht to some of the most stunning of the Galapagos Islands, including Genovesa, Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Rábida and more. Each day of our voyage brings its own wonders as you snorkel with playful sea lions, kayak alongside sea turtles, walk alongside giant Galapagos tortoises and see an otherworldly, volcanic world as few can. When you’re not off roaming the Galapagos Islands, relax upon a gleaming deck while you keep an eye out for passing whales or dolphins riding the waves off the bow. There’s truly no place in the world like the Galapagos Islands, and cruising along on our first-class yacht is the ultimate way to experience the archipelago.
- See departure dates below (dates and rates tab)
- Starting at $7.850 per person
Day 1 - Arrive in San Cristóbal, Welcome Dinner
Take off from mainland Ecuador and begin your Galapagos Island adventure when you land on San Cristóbal Island. Upon landing, you’re met by a guide and taken to your waiting luxury yacht. Settle into your room and gather for a brief orientation before relaxing with your first gourmet meal on board. This afternoon, set off for your first inland adventure with a visit to Centro de Crianza Jacinto Gordillo (La Galapaguera), where the Galapagos Islands National Park has founded a giant Galapagos tortoise breeding program. As you explore the visit center, learn about these unique creatures, their origin and evolution, as well as the hazards threatening their continued existence. Stretch your legs with a walk through the tortoises’ natural habitat, where you can look for the endemic San Cristóbal mockingbird and Calandrinia plant which grows here. Return to the yacht for the evening and enjoy a festive cocktail party and dinner before bed.
Day 2 - Kayak, Snorkel, Swim on Genovesa Island
Today takes you to Genovesa Island, known for its spectacular birding opportunities. Step ashore at Prince Philip’s Steps, where you can spot Nazca boobies in their nests, red-footed boobies perched I palo Santo trees and clouds of storm petrels gather on lava fields. If you’re lucky, you may even see an elusive short-eared owl.
After a BBQ lunch on deck, you may hop into a kayak for closer views of the towering cliffs or explore on a stand-up paddle board, where you can see red-billed tropic birds nestled in the crags. You may also snorkel in the deeper water from a Zodiac. This afternoon, continue to Darwin Bay, where lava gulls pad along tide pools. Walk through a forest like one you’ve never seen, comprised of mangroves and cactus, where great frigatebirds nest. Relax on the white sand beach or swim with acrobatic sea lions before returning to the yacht for a delicious dinner with great views.
Day 3 - Explore Santa Cruz
Our nautical explorations take us to Santa Cruz’s Las Bachas, where you can walk along a white sand beach toward secluded lagoons before cooling off with a snorkel. After lunch onboard, return to shore for an exploration of Cerro Dragon, known for its stunning panoramic views of the cacti forests. Hike along a trail dotted with Galapagos flycatchers, Darwin’s finches and yellow warblers to name a few as well as endemic land iguanas. The trail takes you to a saltwater lagoon where pink flamingos stand out against the mangroves. This evening, relax onboard the yacht with a cocktail as we sail toward the archipelago’s western islands and cross the equator once more.
Day 4 - Isabela Island and Explore Caves on Punta Vicente Roca
Wake up to new views and a delicious breakfast before setting off via Zodiac to Punta Vicente Roca, where you can explore a sea-sculpted cave and appreciate its unique tuff walls. You may also snorkel here and possibly spot the sea turtles and Galapagos penguins that favorite the area. During lunch on the yacht, we sail through the Bolivar Chanel. On deck, take in the change of scenery and the possible sightings of dolphins, whales and the giant Mola-Mola sun fish.
Our journey takes us to Isabela Island, where we disembark at Urbana Bay. Here, geologic uplift has exposed 4 miles of coastal seabed, leaving behind a unique coastal world where Galapagos marine and land iguanas scamper through a labyrinth of waist-high coral skeletons. Along with flightless cormorants and other birdlife, you may even spot a giant Galapagos tortoise. The end of the day finds you back at the yacht, where you can once again enjoy the views on deck and look out for more passing marine life.
Day 5 - Wildlife Viewing Fernandina and Tagus Cove
We continue our way around the archipelago with a onshore exploration of Fernandina, the Galapagos Island’s youngest and most unspoiled of the islands with no introduced wildlife. Step ashore at Punta Espinoza and explore a recently formed stretch of lava flows that ribbons its way around the island. Here, you can observe the Galapagos Islands’ largest colony of marine iguanas rippling under the sun or several sea lions harems lounging. Flightless cormorants build their nests on the point close to shore. After our walk, slip on a snorkel mask and look for the sea turtles that frequent these waters.
After lunch onboard our yacht, we once more step ashore at Tagus Cove, a favorite past hangout for whales and pirates who left graffiti on the walls as a testament to their presence. Then, set off on an uphill hike to an inland saltwater lagoon and an overlook where you can relax with scenic views of the lava fields, volcanic formations and the contrasting blue ocean waves. Off the coast, take to a kayak or a stand up paddle board in search of pelicans, boobies and Galapagos penguins. This evening, we cross the equator for a final time as we enjoy another gourmet dinner.
Day 6 - Rábida Island and Black Turtle Cove
Today, our island-hopping takes us to Rábida, often considered to be the geologic center of the archipelago due to its diversified volcanic rocks. Ashore, wonder at the dark red color of the beach in contrast to the blue waves crashing against it before heading out on a trail to an inland saltwater lagoon. Darwin’s finches, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and marine iguanas can be spotted along the way, and greater flamingos can be spotted wading through the lagoon’s shallow waters.
This afternoon, set off on a Zodiac expedition to Black Turtle Cove. Our marine trail takes you through mangrove-lined inlets and secluded coves where mating sea turtles can be spotted from September through February, golden cow-nosed rays flutter their wings, and white-tipped reef sharks swim under the waves. Finish off your full day with a farewell cocktail party and dinner onboard.
Day 7 - Santa Cruz Highlands, Charles Darwin Research Station
Step ashore on Santa Cruz Island. You first venture into Puerto Ayora, the Galapagos Islands’ bustling social hub, before driving into the lush highlands. Your journey takes you to Rancho El Manzanillo, a hacienda where giant Galapagos tortoises freely roam and munch on foliage amongst the mud and trees. After walking alongside these massive centenarian creatures, travel to Los Gemelos, or the Twins—a matching pair of large pit craters carpeted in overgrown forest.
After lunch onboard our yacht, the afternoon takes you to the Centro de Crianza Fausto Llerena, formerly the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you can explore the breeding center and tortoise corals where you can come across giant Galapagos tortoises in every stage of life and visit the new Lonesome George exhibit. Then, sweeten up your day with a stop at a local chocolate shop, where you learn how Ecuadorians produce their delicious Arriba cacao, before continuing on a stroll through the downtown area. You may remain ashore for a dinner of your choosing at a local restaurant or return to the ship. Zodiac shuttles will be offered to the yacht from the dock throughout the night.
Day 8 - Return to San Cristóbal, Return to Mainland Ecuador
Our final island of your grand Galapagos Islands’ tour is San Cristóbal, where you visit the Interpretation Center. Here, you can see a complete history of the islands’ natural and human history and learn more about the islands’ rich biodiversity. Then, explore the port before meeting your flight for mainland Ecuador.
Note: For guests who choose to depart on Saturday and require guide-accompanied private transfer services to the airport, there will be an additional charge of $50 per person or $200 maximum. Departing guests travel by private car, accompanied by one of our guides or a local guide to the Itabaca canal, where they will encounter a 10-minute ferry crossing followed by a15-minute bus ride to the Baltra airport for check in for your flight departing at either 10AM or 1PM. Only guests who book the later flight will you have time to visit the Las Primicias tortoise reserve. The return flight from Baltra also incurs an additional fee of $26/person and is subject to availability. Confirmation is requested.
For guests who remain in Santa Cruz until departing Saturday, there are no additional fees. Guests have a 6 am drop off at Itabaca Canal and must arrange transportation to Puerto Ayora via their hotel.
TWO-CONSECUTIVE WEEK ITINERARY
Book two back-to-back trips to experience the Galapagos as few can—comprehensively. No two tours are the same!
Day EXTENSIONS
Galapagos Cruise Extensions
We have amazing Ecuador mainland extensions! Or, while you are so close, think about visiting Machu Picchu! You'll save when packaging everything with us.
Here are some ideas:
2-3 Day Extensions
A few days in the Amazon Rainforest
Visit the Ecuadorian Andes & Cotopaxi
Stay at traditional Ecuadorian haciendas
4+ Day Extensions
Explore Machu Picchu in Peru
La Selva Jungle Lodge Experience (Galapagos cruise guest favorite)
Active Ecuador Multisport Mainland Tour
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
SINGLE cabins are limited and assigned by the ship. Single cabins with no supplement are offered on seasonal departure dates only excluding hosted departure dates and cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
Females willing to share (WSF) or Males Willing to share (WSM) request: the single rate will be confirmed, a share request can be placed on wait list and only if matched will the share rate apply. Otherwise, the single rate will apply.
TRIPLE cabins have two twin lower beds that can be converted to a king size bed and one additional pull down berth. The pull down berth is smaller than the other two beds and is intended for children or small adults.
A Holiday Supplement of $392.50 per person is applicable on holiday cruises.
Included:
- Cabin accommodation
- All meals and snacks
- All beverages including open bar policy
- Evening briefing and cocktail hour
- Guided shore excursions
- Concierge services
- Use of wet suits, snorkeling equipment and sea kayaks
- Transfers in the Islands between the airport and dock
Not Included:
- International Airfare
- Airfare to Galapagos
- Galapagos entrance fee (park tax)
- Transit control card
- Premium alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities to guides and crew
- Purchases on board
- Travel insurance
Galapagos Park Tax: The entrance fee to the National Park is $100 for adults and $50 for children 11 and younger and is not included in the cruise rate.
Transit Control Card: A TCT card or tarjeta de control de transito is $20 per person and is required by INGALA for all visitors to Galapagos to control migration to the Islands. The Park tax and TCT will be added to your invoice and prepaid for your convenience, unless you decline. For those who do prepay, we will register and pay your fees for you. Only those passengers flying to Galapagos on Sunday on Avianca can pre-pay the park tax and TCT. Rates are subject to change at any time until day of departure.
Family Departures:
On departures where Family is noted below, activities on board the ORIGIN will be geared toward families traveling with children age 7 to 17 – and up. We do not recommend these weeks for adult couples who are traveling without any children. Children age 7 to 11 get 25% discount off the cruise rate, teenagers age 12 to 17 get 15% discount off the cruise rate, and college students age 18 to 21 get 10% discount (excluding holiday weeks) and cannot be combined with other discounts.
Ship Details
L.O.A.: 142,16 feet / 43,33 meters
Beam: 27,43 feet / 8,36 meters
Cruising Speed: 12 knots
Fuel Capacity: 6,340 gallons
Engine: 454HP at 1800RPM
Water Capacity: 4,891 gallons / 18,514 liters
Desalinator Production: 4,500 gallons per day
Compressors: Two low pressure
Volatage:110 and 220 volts
Navigational Aids: VHF and HI-SUB radios, GMDSS, color radar, echo sounder, Furuno GPS
Safety Aids: EPIRB (emergency position indicator radio beacon)
Staterooms
Double Cabin
There are ten deluxe staterooms with large windows revealing the incredible landscapes of the islands and breathtaking ocean. Fine bed linens, climate controls and both memory foam and soft pillows ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Measuring 145 square feet, there are two twin beds that convert to a King size bed, while nightstands and an ample sectional closet provide plenty of space for storing personal items.
Each cabin has a private bathroom with a dual-flush toilet, a sink, and a modern rainfall shower with ocean views. Plush towels, waffle bathrobes, slippers, hair dryers, and biodegradable hand soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioner are provided.
Additional amenities include a vanity nook with a stool and lighted mirror, Apple TV with pre-loaded movies, a universal docking station, and a safe deposit box. Cabins are cleaned twice daily, and a light laundry service is available. There is a personal Espresso machine and tea kettle set up in every cabin.
Triple Cabin
There are ten deluxe staterooms with large windows revealing the incredible landscapes of the islands and breathtaking ocean. Fine bed linens, climate controls and both memory foam and soft pillows ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Measuring 145 square feet, there are two twin beds that convert to a King size bed, while nightstands and an ample sectional closet provide plenty of space for storing personal items.
Each cabin has a private bathroom with a dual-flush toilet, a sink, and a modern rainfall shower with ocean views. Plush towels, waffle bathrobes, slippers, hair dryers, and biodegradable hand soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioner are provided.
Additional amenities include a vanity nook with a stool and lighted mirror, Apple TV with pre-loaded movies, a universal docking station, and a safe deposit box. Cabins are cleaned twice daily, and a light laundry service is available. There is a personal Espresso machine and tea kettle set up in every cabin.
Twin Cabin
There are ten deluxe staterooms with large windows revealing the incredible landscapes of the islands and breathtaking ocean. Fine bed linens, climate controls and both memory foam and soft pillows ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Measuring 145 square feet, there are two twin beds that convert to a King size bed, while nightstands and an ample sectional closet provide plenty of space for storing personal items.
Each cabin has a private bathroom with a dual-flush toilet, a sink, and a modern rainfall shower with ocean views. Plush towels, waffle bathrobes, slippers, hair dryers, and biodegradable hand soap, body wash, shampoo and conditioner are provided.
Additional amenities include a vanity nook with a stool and lighted mirror, Apple TV with pre-loaded movies, a universal docking station, and a safe deposit box. Cabins are cleaned twice daily, and a light laundry service is available. There is a personal Espresso machine and tea kettle set up in every cabin.
Ship Photos
Deck Plans
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