Origins of Species: Galápagos Islands Vacation

Location Galápagos Islands, Ecuador Adventure Level Easier Minimum age 8 From $9295
Call toll-free 1 (800) 346-6277

This multi-sport Galápagos Islands vacation is a chance to pamper yourself aboard a luxury yacht while experiencing the exotic wildlife and classic sites of a beloved UNESCO World Heritage Site—without the crowds

Island-hopping through the Galápagos is undeniably a dream trip. So what better way to experience the best this exotic archipelago has to offer than aboard a 16-passenger luxury yacht? The Integrity is a state-of-the-art, ultra-stable vessel equipped with spacious staterooms, a chef, full-service bar, hot tub, observation and sun decks, plus a fleet of tandem kayaks for exploring the islands.

During our time cruising on the Integrity, we’ll spend days hiking and kayaking through the volcanic paradise with our naturalist guide who holds an incomparable amount of knowledge about the fascinating flora, fauna, and human history of the Galápagos. As we explore each new island, we’ll frolic with sea turtles, swim with friendly sea lions, snorkel in Ecuador’s equatorial waters, and observe the myriad marine and bird species of the region. At night, our on-board chef will wow us with seasonal and local cuisine and we’ll have the chance to unwind on the rooftop sun deck as the sun dips below the horizon or soak in the spa under the stars.

In addition to a week-long stay aboard our comfortable and private yacht, this trip also includes two nights near Quito International Airport in Ecuador and a full day and night on the Island of Santa Cruz where we’ll see Galápagos tortoises in the wild and visit the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station. There’s no doubt about it, this small ship luxury cruise is the ultimate Galápagos Islands vacation.

Trip Highlights
  • Intimate Galápagos Islands vacation aboard a 141-foot luxury yacht with onboard chef
  • Enjoy unique access to areas of the islands where bigger ships can’t venture 
  • Explore a volcanic wonderland on kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling excursions
  • Observe the archipelago’s unique sights and exotic wildlife with an expert naturalist guide
  • Overnight at an exclusive resort on Santa Cruz Island & visit the famed Charles Darwin Research Station

What to Expect

Itinerary & Map

Itinerary at a Glance

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every Galápagos Islands vacation is different and some activities may be subject to change depending on other groups in the area, the weather, and participants’ ability. Additionally, daily distances and activities within the park are governed by our permit which allows us to visit these protected sites. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:

Our Eastern Galápagos itinerary visits the islands of Santa Cruz, Espanola, San Cristobal, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Genovesa, Santiago, Rabida, and Sombrero Chino.

Day 1 | Thursday

Arrive to Quito, Ecuador

Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and transfer to our hotel about 45 minutes outside of Quito city. If you’d like to explore the city of Quito or the surrounding region before or after your Galápagos cruise, OARS can arrange additional services, per request.

Day 2 | Friday

Flight to Baltra & the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

After an early breakfast, you’ll take a morning flight to the island of Baltra. Upon arrival, you’ll make your way to the VIP arrivals lounge where the staff will assist you with your Galápagos National Park Entry. Our islands-based guide will meet you here and accompany the group on a short ferry ride to the island of Santa Cruz.

In the afternoon, we’ll have the chance to search for giant tortoises at a local farm where wild tortoises roam freely and visit a lava formation—Los Tuneles (The Tunnels) and/or Los Gemelos (The Twins). Los Tuneles are lava tubes, remnants of underground lava channels where lava once flowed. Los Gemelos are two lava sinkholes that formed when great lava pools drained leaving empty, roofed caverns. The roofs subsequently collapsed and exposed these craters.

After our explorations, we’ll check into our luxurious accommodations for the evening. Once you have had a chance to settle in, we’ll reunite for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 3 | Saturday

Exploring Santa Cruz Island

After a leisurely breakfast, we offer an optional (yet highly recommended) snorkel practice in the hotel pool. After the snorkel lesson, we depart for the seaside town of Puerto Ayora, where we have lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you will learn about conservation issues as well as the tortoise hatching and rearing program. You may also see several species of resident giant tortoises up close as well as the Lonesome George exhibit. 

In the late afternoon, we’ll meet with our park Naturalist and board our yacht, the Integrity. Once aboard, everyone will participate in a safety and life jacket drill. Afterward, you have time to settle into your stateroom before dinner is served. 

During the night the yacht will get underway and you will awaken just as we anchor at the southernmost island of our cruise, Española. (B, L, D)

Day 4 | Sunday

Española Island: Gardner Bay and Punta Suárez

We begin our explorations at Gardner Bay, where we’ll stroll along a magnificent white sand beach among lounging sea lions, where marine turtles nest and the curious Española mockingbirds follow your every footstep. You can take a brief swim on the beach or wait for an amazing snorkel in the company of schools of colorful fish, turtles, sea lions, and possibly small sharks along the underwater cliffs of Gardener-by-Española, a small satellite islet.

The yacht will cruise while we enjoy lunch, arriving this afternoon at Punta Suárez, one of the Galápagos’ most famed visitor sites. You’ll be dazzled by spectacular cliff views of pounding surf and seemingly unlimited populations of an amazing variety of seabirds. Brightly colored marine iguanas and the largest lava lizards of the Galápagos frequent the coastline and rest on the trail. From the cliff top, you’ll watch a blowhole spray water 30 meters in the air. Española is the only island where you may see waved albatrosses and possibly observe their fascinating mating dance. (B, L, D)

Day 5 | Monday

San Cristobal Island: Punta Pitt, Cerro Brujo and Leon Dormido

The day begins with a short ride in the panga to Punta Pitt. Here visitors are confronted by the strong stench and cacophony of barking sea lions. This is a bachelor colony, and most are exhausted from fighting and mating. A steep gully leads up the cliff to a breeding ground for boobies of all three varieties: Red-footed, Blue-footed, and Nazca. It’s the only place in the Galápagos where you can see all three species of boobies nesting together. Two species of frigatebirds are also present, as are Swallow-tailed Gulls and Storm Petrels. 

This afternoon we’ll visit Cerro Brujo and Leon Dormido, or “Kicker Rock.” A short panga ride along the cliffs of Cerro Brujo will be followed by a visit to the lovely coral sand beach, frequented by waders and migrant birds. Snorkelers will see an amazing array of sea life at Kicker Rock, often including manta rays, sea turtles, and sharks. Non-snorkelers will enjoy a close cruise around the dramatic Kicker Rock, a 500-meter vertical tuff cone. The orange glow on the rock at sunset is one of the more dramatic sights in all of the Galápagos. (B, L, D)

Day 6 | Tuesday

Santa Fe Island and South Plaza

Our arrival on Santa Fe Island brings us to a white beach, usually covered with sea lions. We’ll walk into a giant Opuntia cactus grove where you’ll have the opportunity to see the endemic land iguanas. The land visit will be followed by snorkeling and/or kayaking in the turquoise waters of the bay, full of sea lions, rays, urchins, eels, and fish of all colors. After our exploration of Santa Fe, we’ll return to the yacht for lunch as we cruise to our next destination.

On South Plaza, we will see another species of Galápagos land iguana as well as cactus finches. Both North and South Plazas were formed by geological uplift and tilt to the north, with cliffs on their southern coasts. On small islands like this, terrestrial and marine species interact more than on the larger islands, and the occasional hybrid iguana (land and marine) with its “zebra-like” stripes can often be observed. The south-facing cliffs swarm with a myriad of bird species. Bachelor sea lions climb steep cliffs in the late afternoon to spend nights away from the larger dominant bulls.

Back on the yacht, we’ll revel in another delicious dinner created by our chef. Enjoy the night sky from the top observation deck as we cruise to our northernmost island. (B, L, D)

Day 7 | Wednesday

Darwin Bay and Prince Philip’s Steps of Genovesa Island

On the north side of Darwin Bay, Darwin Beach was formed by the rim of a sunken crater. Red mangroves along the hiking trail provide habitat for Yellow Warblers, Yellow-crowned night herons, and pintail ducks. The highlight of this site is the incredible abundance of Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and Yellow-crowned Night Herons. Although the most abundant booby on the islands, this is one of the few places visitors can observe Red-footed Boobies.

After lunch, our panga takes us along the base of the eastern cliffs of Darwin Bay, where we’ll scour the cliff crevices for all kinds of animal life. We arrive at a rockfall that forms a natural staircase up the cliffs, known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, or the “Stairway to Seabird Heaven.” You’ll walk through massive colonies of Red-footed and Nazca Boobies and an extraordinary Palo Santo forest on the way to a lava ridge where thousands of Wedge-rumped Storm Petrels dart about while Short-eared Owls stalk them for prey. (B, L, D)

Day 8 | Thursday

Sullivan Bay and Bartolomé

At Sullivan Bay, we’ll walk across a recent lava flow and view its beautiful structural characteristics. Formed in the second half of the 19th Century, the flow is too young for much plant or animal life. It is the lava itself and the contrasting black pahoehoe flow and the reddish-yellow tuff cones that are the stars of this visit. The colors and shapes of the lava are fantastic for photos.

Arguably the most recognized landmark in all the Galápagos, Pinnacle Rock juts straight out of Bartolomé’s northern bay. Snorkeling in the bay provides visitors with a chance to swim with Galápagos Penguins. Climbing up the 600-meter trail to the top of the island provides spectacular views of Pinnacle Rock, Santiago Island, and the Daphnes. (B, L, D)

Day 9 | Friday

Rábida Island and Sombrero Chino

Rábida is also known as The Red Island. Here we’ll arrive at Red Beach, where wading birds and ghost crabs dot the sand. Behind the beach is a saltwater lagoon where Pintail ducks and Common Stilts are frequently seen along with a group of bachelor sea lions. Brown pelicans nest in the nearby salt brush. A short trail inland provides a chance to observe finches, Galápagos Doves, Yellow Warblers, and mockingbirds, as well as the occasional snake.

The turquoise waters near Sombrero Chino provide one of our best opportunities to see Galápagos Penguins. A panga ride in search of wildlife is followed by a snorkel that often includes sharks, sea lions, penguins, and rays. We’ll land at a beautiful white sand beach for a short walk along a trail that meanders over varying types of lava.

This evening we cruise toward our final Galápagos destination, where our yacht will anchor for the night near the airport. We’ll enjoy one last dinner with our new friends and celebrate all we have experienced. (B, L, D)

Day 10 | Saturday

Baltra and Return to the Mainland

We’ll enjoy one last breakfast aboard Integrity, then disembark at Baltra Island for our flight back to the mainland. Depending on the flight schedule, you may either connect to your international departure, have an extended day-use room for your late-night departure, or spend the night if your departing flight is the following day. You’re free to enjoy dinner on your own at the hotel restaurant. (B)

Day 11 | Sunday

Departure

OARS will arrange transport to the Quito International Airport for departing flights. (B)

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport

Meeting time

The morning of Day 2 (time dependent upon our flight)

Return

The afternoon of Day 10 (you are free to depart this evening or anytime on Day 11)

Trip Map

Itinerary at a Glance

We pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every Galápagos Islands vacation is different and some activities may be subject to change depending on other groups in the area, the weather, and participants’ ability. Additionally, daily distances and activities within the park are governed by our permit which allows us to visit these protected sites. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:

Our Western itinerary visits the islands of Santa Cruz, Floreana, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, and North Seymour.

Day 1 | Thursday

Arrive to Quito, Ecuador

Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and transfer to our hotel about 45 minutes outside of Quito city. If you’d like to explore the city of Quito or the surrounding region before or after your Galápagos cruise, OARS can arrange additional services, per request.

Day 2 | Friday

Flight to Baltra & the Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

After an early breakfast, you’ll take a morning flight to the island of Baltra. Upon arrival, you’ll make your way to the VIP arrivals lounge where the staff will assist you with your Galápagos National Park Entry. Our islands-based guide will meet you here and accompany the group on a short ferry ride to the island of Santa Cruz.

In the afternoon, we’ll have the chance to search for giant tortoises at a local farm where wild tortoises roam freely and visit a lava formation—Los Tuneles (The Tunnels) and/or Los Gemelos (The Twins). Los Tuneles are lava tubes, remnants of underground lava channels where lava once flowed. Los Gemelos are two lava sinkholes that formed when great lava pools drained leaving empty, roofed caverns. The roofs subsequently collapsed and exposed these craters.

After our explorations, we’ll check into our luxurious accommodations for the evening. Once you have had a chance to settle in, we’ll reunite for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 3 | Saturday

Exploring Santa Cruz Island

After a leisurely breakfast, we offer an optional (yet highly recommended) snorkel practice in the hotel pool. After the snorkel lesson, we depart for the seaside town of Puerto Ayora, where we have lunch and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here, you will learn about conservation issues as well as the tortoise hatching and rearing program. You may also see several species of resident giant tortoises up close as well as the Lonesome George exhibit. 

In the late afternoon, we’ll meet with our park Naturalist and board our yacht, the Integrity. Once aboard, everyone will participate in a safety and life jacket drill. Afterward, you have time to settle into your stateroom before dinner is served. 

During the night the yacht will get underway and you will awaken just as we anchor at the southernmost island of our cruise, Floreana. (B, L, D)

Day 4 | Sunday

Floreana Island

This morning you’ll rise to the sounds of the sea and a view of Punta Cormorant and Champion Island. Following breakfast aboard Integrity, we’ll prepare for our first of many shore excursions. Our pangas will take us to a green, olivine sand beach next to a large lagoon usually adorned with feeding flamingos and other water birds. A short hike through one of the more varied plant communities leads to Flour Beach where sea turtles nest and small rays frolic in the surf. We’ll also hope to catch a glimpse of the rare Floreana Mockingbird.

Next up is snorkeling along the shores of nearby Champion Island with curious, playful sea lions and the array of fish that frequent these waters.

While we enjoy lunch, the yacht will motor to our next excursion, which takes us to several popular attractions – Post Office Bay, Asilo de la Paz, and Black Beach. Arriving ashore, our first stop is at the wooden barrel that has served as a mariner’s “post office” since the 18th Century. Here you’ll have the opportunity to continue the “postmaster” tradition of assisting with the delivery of a postcard or letter left by another traveler. From here we head into the Floreana Highlands to visit a collection of tortoises and learn about the island’s intriguing human history at Wittmer Caves. This is where one of Galápagos’ only freshwater springs is located. Our day ends with a walk on Black Beach before returning to the boat for a well-deserved dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 5 | Monday

Isabela Island

After motoring overnight, we awake at the largest of all the islands in the archipelago–Isabela. Home to five major volcanic cones, two of which erupt frequently, the island is relatively young and geologically very alive, making it a “hot spot.”

This morning’s excursion is at Punta Moreno. Here we’ll walk onto this young lava flow at the base of Cero Azul, past cacti, and other early colonizing plants. This flow is dotted with numerous “oases” of brackish lagoons containing a wide variety of life including flamingos, Paint-billed Crakes, White-cheeked Pintails, and Common Gallinules. Our Naturalist will lead us along the trail and provide a variety of interpretive information about the flora and fauna surrounding us.

As we enjoy lunch, the sights and sounds of the sea and coastline entertain us while we motor to Elizabeth Bay, a pristine mangrove lagoon. Once our pangas reach the entry to the enclosed lagoon, our guides will slowly navigate through the narrow channels while we watch for rays, Flightless Cormorants, penguins, pelicans, Lava herons, sea turtles, sea lions, Blue-footed Boobies and other species that inhabit this vital zone. Green sea turtles come here to mate before nesting. The tranquil scene sets the tone and reminds us how fortunate we are to experience this special place. (B, L, D)

Day 6 | Tuesday

Isabela Island and Fernandina Island

A short overnight cruise brings us to Urbina Bay, one of the most unique and rewarding sites we’ll visit. In 1954, volcanic activity caused a massive stretch of seafloor to be uplifted 15 feet in a matter of hours, stranding coral heads and all sea life that couldn’t escape. Here we get to walk among the skeletal coral garden, now home to marine iguanas, pelicans, and mockingbirds. Not far inland is a colony of large land iguanas. During certain times of the year, we may encounter the giant Alcedo tortoises, which come down from the highlands to nest in the warm sands of the bay. The vegetation is varied and several species of birds nest here.

Lunch aboard Integrity is served while we motor along neighboring Fernandina Island to our destination at Punta Espinosa. Fernandina is the most pristine and youngest island of the Galápagos and is volcanically active, the most recent eruption occurring in 2008. Upon landing ashore, we are met by an abundance of small, dark marine iguanas and brightly colored Sally Lightfoot Crabs. Here we’ll walk out on a pahoehoe lava flow—younger than the one at Punta Moreno—past a few pioneering plants. Along the sandy shore, you can see Flightless Cormorants, pelicans, and numerous lounging sea lions. Sunsets from here are often stunning. (B, L, D)

Day 7 | Wednesday

Isabela Island

This morning’s excursion takes us to Tagus Cove, a deep and secluded bay surrounded by high cliffs. Pirates and whalers in the 19th Century using Tagus Cove for anchorage left their marks on the cliffs of this sunken caldera, a tradition of graffiti that continues today. A short, steep hike passes Darwin Lake, which sits within a tuft cone and is filled with salt water. This site is an excellent place for viewing land birds, including Ground and Tree Finches, Galápagos Hawks, Yellow Warblers, Large-billed Flycatchers, and sometimes the Woodpecker Finch. A rare sighting of land iguanas is a treat. A panga ride or kayaking jaunt along the cliffs provides views of geologic features, as well as penguins and other bird species.

Our afternoon destination is Punta Vicente Roca, a huge collapsed tuft cone that foots the northwest corner of Isabela Island. The large cave, cleaved tuft cone, and caldera wall are impressive geological formations and provide a beautiful backdrop for nesting birds, including Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies, gulls, Storm Petrels, and Brown Noddy Terns. It also forms a calm gathering area for sea turtles. There is no landing at this site, so we explore the cliff faces by panga or by snorkeling. Along with sea turtles, snorkelers can see many species of colorful fish, penguins, sea lions, sea anemones, small jellyfish, and other sea life. As we depart this site in the late afternoon, we’ll enjoy refreshments aboard the yacht as we cross the equator. (B, L, D)

Day 8 | Thursday

Santiago Island

We wake up to the prominent island of Santiago, a large, varied, and dramatic island. Black lava flows and volcanic cinder cones, their gray slopes dotted with silvery Palo Santo trees, combine to create a stunning geologic panorama

Our pangas deliver us to Puerto Egas, where two separate trails are found. The first meanders along the coast to the fur seal grottoes, a safe haven for the shy Galápagos Fur Seal amongst the crags and swimming inlets. This area is also home to American Oystercatchers, marine iguanas, and ubiquitous sea lions.

The second, less-used trail heads inland to a lagoon at the Salt Mine Volcano where flamingos and other birds are found.

We return to the yacht for lunch and then cruise to Espumilla Beach and Buccaneer Cove. Espumilla is a red-sand beach and a sea turtle nesting site, with an inland trail that passes a small lagoon and into the arid zone where it is possible to view many land birds in a beautiful landscape, including Galápagos Hawks.

Buccaneer Cove is located on the north side of Santiago and is a legendary hideout for pirate ships preying on Spanish Galleons. At Buccaneer Cove we’re able to snorkel or kayak. Here you may see sea lions, fur seals, sea turtles, rays, sharks, pelagic fishes, and amazing underwater geologic formations. (B, L, D)

Day 9 | Friday

North Seymour Island and Santa Cruz Island

North Seymour is the flattest island of our Galápagos cruise. The trail at North Seymour heads inland where you will see the largest colony of Magnificent Frigatebirds in Galápagos, Blue-footed Boobies and occasionally bush-climbing land iguanas. We’ll then head along the coast where you will have ample opportunity to observe sea lions and marine iguanas. Snorkelers will enjoy their last underwater experience in the channel between North Seymour and Mosquera, which can be one of the most interesting sites.

This afternoon, we’ll come ashore at Bachas Beach. Here we’ll enjoy Bachas’ fine white sand beach. Two small lagoons just over the dunes sometimes host flamingos. The name “Bachas” comes from the remains of a barge that ran aground decades ago, leaving just a few rusty spines visible today.

Next, at Caleta Tortuga Negra, we are propelled silently in our pangas by our guides pushing us along with a pole. We may see Spotted Eagle and Golden Rays gracefully swimming in formation just below the surface of the water. You’ll also see sharks, egrets, and Lava Herons. Caleta Tortuga Negra is a shark nursery and we may see very small sharks in the shallows. Sea turtles hang out in this lagoon most of the year but are here by the hundreds during their mating season between December and March.

Afterward, we’ll gather for our final sunset and dinner aboard Integrity. (B, L, D)

Day 10 | Saturday

Baltra and Return to the Mainland

Bird life abounds as the morning sunrise lights up pink skies. You’ll have breakfast on board Integrity, then disembark at Baltra Island. The group will fly back to the mainland and, depending on your flights, either connect to your international departure, or have an extended day-use room for your late-night departure, or overnight if your flight is the following morning. (B)

Day 11 | Sunday

Departure

OARS will arrange transport to the Quito International Airport for departing flights. (B)

Meeting Time & Place

Location

Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport

Meeting time

The morning of Day 2 (time dependent upon our flight)

Return

The afternoon of Day 10 (you are free to depart this evening or anytime on Day 11)

Trip Map

Dates & Prices

2024 DeparturesPrice
March 7, 21$9,295
April 4, 18$9,295
May 2, 16, 30$9,295
June 13, 27$9,295
July 11, 25$9,295
August 8, 22$9,295
October 3, 17, 31$9,295
November 14, 28$9,295
December 12$9,295
2024 DeparturesPrice
February 29$9,295
March 14, 28$9,295
April 11, 25$9,295
May 9, 23$9,295
June 6, 20$9,295
July 4, 18$9,295
August 1, 15$9,295
October 10, 24$9,295
November 7, 21$9,295
December 5$9,295
2025 DeparturesPrice
January 9, 23$9,595
February 6, 20$9,595
March 6, 20$9,595
April 3, 17$9,595
May 1, 15, 29$9,595
June 12, 26$9,595
July 10, 24$9,595
August 7, 21$9,595
October 16, 30$9,595
November 13, 27$9,595
December 11$9,595
2025 DeparturesPrice
January 2, 16, 30$9,595
February 13, 27$9,595
March 13, 27$9,595
April 10, 24$9,595
May 8, 22$9,595
June 5, 19$9,595
July 3, 17, 31$9,595
August 14, 28$9,595
October 23$9,595
November 6, 20$9,595
December 4$9,595

Prices are per person based on double occupancy. 

Deposit

First deposit: $1200 per person (due at the time of booking)
Second deposit: (only for groups of 5 or more) $1200/person (due 165 days prior to the trip date)

Additional Costs & Upgrades

Ways to Save

To book with one of our special offers, call 1-800-346-6277 or contact us today.

The Need-to-Know Info

Trip Details

Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Fully-crewed luxury yacht with English-speaking park naturalist
  • 3 nights hotel lodging (based on double occupancy): 2 nights near Quito Int’l Airport and 1 night on Santa Cruz Island
  • 7 nights on a deluxe yacht (based on double occupancy)
  • Meals from breakfast on day 2 through breakfast on day 10 (outlined in the itinerary as B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner), plus some complimentary beverages
  • All activities and equipment as outlined in the itinerary, including snorkel gear
  • Airport transfer to hotel on Day 1 and & return transfer on itinerary day 10 or 11

Not Included in Your Trip Cost

  • Transportation to/from Quito, Ecuador
  • Roundtrip flight from Quito to Galápagos (arranged by OARS)
  • Excess baggage charges
  • Single supplement fee (by choice or circumstance) or any accommodation upgrades
  • Transfers to or from hotels other than the Holiday Inn Quito Airport Hotel
  • Galápagos Islands transit control card (arranged by OARS)
  • Galápagos Nat’l Park entrance fee (arranged by OARS)
  • Insurance of any kind, including a travel protection plan or mandatory emergency medical & evacuation coverage (must have a minimum $100,000 coverage value)
  • Alcoholic beverages from the boat’s inventory
  • Pre- or post-trip accommodation and/or day tours (can be arranged by OARS upon request)
  • Gratuities for the park naturalist, guides, and yacht crew

Additional Costs

  • Flight to/from Galápagos: $545/person
  • National Park Service Entrance Fee: $200/adult | $100/child 11 and under (prices subject to change)
  • $20 transit fee
  • Airport taxes and fees

Additional costs are subject to change

Upgrades

Owner’s Suite Upgrade
• Stateroom upgrade to the Owner’s Suite is $1,600 ($800 per person based on double occupancy)

Single Supplements for Staterooms on the Yacht

Single supplement rates for the yacht do not reflect the cost of a single occupancy room at the hotels.

• No single supplement for dedicated single staterooms
2024 single supplement for double occupancy staterooms: $7,595
2025 single supplement for double occupancy staterooms: $7,785

Single Supplement for Hotels (3 nights)

2024: $925
2025: $975

Integrity offers uncompromising comfort. This luxurious, stabilized, 141-foot yacht carries 16 guests, 10 crew members, and a superb naturalist on an intimate, rewarding adventure. From the swimming platform aft to the extended bow for whale and dolphin watching, every inch of the small craft was designed to enhance your Galápagos Islands vacation. You’ll find your home away from home in a spacious, well-appointed stateroom. You can relax and gather for refreshments and camaraderie in the Salon and Sun Deck lounges. And there’s no better way to unwind from an active day than a soak in the spa while cruising past volcanic shores. Up for some action? Integrity also carries snorkel gear and a fleet of sea kayaks, perfect for exploring shorelines, inlets, bays, and quiet coves. Two pangas (zodiacs) transport guests to and from the yacht for shore visits and snorkeling.

The only Galápagos yacht designed with integrated, active stabilizers, Integrity was built in the U.S. and completely refitted for Galápagos cruising. Continual maintenance, annual dry-dock, regular upgrades and frequent remodels keep the vessel in top shape. Integrity is the most environmentally conscious yacht in the Galápagos, earning the Galápagos Quality Gold Seal for its practices, including on-board treatment of all wastewater. Two electronically controlled, vibration-isolated Detroit/MTU 4-stroke diesel engines provide smooth cruising that’s environmentally friendly. Two generators provide sufficient electrical power to easily support the air conditioning, walk-in freezer and refrigerator, extensive electronic systems, water makers, and onboard wastewater treatment plant. Unparalleled commitment to conservation and quality are the hallmarks of Integrity’s operation.

Accommodation on the yacht consists of various options and price levels for you to choose from at the time of reservation, per your interest and availability.

The Owner’s Suite

The 350 ft² Owner’s Suite spans the Main Deck from port to starboard with picture windows on both sides for unobstructed views of the Islands. This luxurious suite offers a king bed, ample seating, a writing desk with chair, a spacious bathroom, and plenty of storage. You’ll enjoy individual climate controls, a large-screen entertainment center, satellite phone, and minibar.

The sofa offers a pull-out twin bed that can accommodate one child. The child will be allocated one bed in another stateroom (typically the Single Stateroom), therefore must pay the cost for one bed space aboard the yacht.

Standard King and Twin Staterooms

Integrity offers five 150 ft² convertible staterooms that can be configured with one spacious king bed or two full-sized twin beds. Each stateroom offers a table with chairs, plenty of storage, a mini-fridge, individual climate controls, and entertainment center. The en-suite bathroom facilities have a full-sized rain shower, sink, toilet, hairdryer, and storage cabinet.

Queen Stateroom

The 150 ft² Queen Stateroom offers a queen-size bed, ample storage, a table with chairs, ample storage, a mini-fridge, individual climate controls, and entertainment center.

Single Stateroom

The Single Stateroom accommodates a single guest in one twin bed. This 120 ft² stateroom features large picture windows and an en-suite bath with walk-in rain shower and full amenities. The Single Stateroom is ideal for solo travelers as well as a child traveling with parents, located adjacent to the Owner’s Suite and opposite one of the Standard King Staterooms.

We know food is an important part of any vacation and our talented chefs work magic in the galley creating new taste sensations and surprising twists on old favorites. Menus are varied and healthy. Special diets are accommodated to the best of our ability and children’s favorites are always available.

In the Main Deck entry, you’ll find snacks, refreshments, and chilled hand towels awaiting your return from shore visits, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Delicious, healthy meals await you each day at intimate tables of six. Start your morning with a lovely breakfast buffet of cereals, fresh fruit, baked goods, eggs cooked to order, and an array of hot and cold beverages. At lunch and dinner, indulge in tasteful multi-course meals of local specialties.

We need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we must consider in planning your trip. If you have food allergies or necessary restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

The Galápagos Islands have a surprisingly cool, subtropical climate regulated by the cold, north-flowing (Humboldt), and west-flowing (Peruvian) ocean currents, which originate in Antarctica. Generally, December to April are the warmest months (75-90°F) and coolest from May through November (60-75°F), with August and September being the coolest months. The islands only receive an average of 10 inches of rain per year, so it is rarely “rainy” though you can expect some precipitation year-round.

The temperature of the air and water varies depending on the strength of the trade winds. During periods of weak winds, December through March, the cooling currents subside and temperatures rise. The waters are warmest during this period (65-80°F). In April, the trend begins toward stronger winds and cooler temperatures (both air and water) with the strongest trade winds and coolest temperatures being customary in late September. In October, the trend reverses. And so the seasons cycle endlessly through time, with the occasional appearance of El Niño and La Niña phenomena.

The larger islands with volcanic peaks have a dramatic range of climatic zones. The coastal areas are quite arid, covered with plants adapted to desert conditions, and receive infrequent precipitation. The highland parts of these islands receive moisture almost year-round in the form of garúa (thick fog, mist or drizzle), which supports a lush rainforest where all of the tortoises live.

In the Quito area, which is about 9,000 feet above sea level, the elevation greatly moderates the climate. The temperature ranges from 45 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with lower temperatures from April to October. Daytime temperatures are generally warm and pleasant, while evenings are cool. Bring a warm layer for the evenings.

Average Air & Water Temperatures

Average Air Temp (F°)Average Water Temp (F°)
January75-80 (warm)70-75
February75-85 ( warm to hot)70-80
March80-90 (warmest)70-80
April75-80 (warm)70-75
May70-75 (cool)70-75
June70-75 (cool)65-70
July70 (cool)60-65
August68-70 (cool)60-65
September60-70 (coolest)60-65
October70-75 (cool)63-70
November70-75 (cool)65-72
December73-78 (warm)65-73

Before booking your trip with OARS, there are a few important considerations we’d like you to know about.

  • Purchase Travel Protection: In order to take part in this trip, each participant must have a minimum of $100,000 of Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage in place for the dates of the trip. This can be purchased as stand-alone coverage, independent of a comprehensive travel protection plan. Learn more about the plan we recommend.

  • Essential Travel Documents: A passport is required for travel to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands.
  • Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of any physical limitations you may have as soon as possible. If you exceed 260 pounds, please give us a call. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the months leading up to your trip and can meet our Essential Eligibility Criteria.
  • Trip Forms: Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks of making a booking. Refer to your confirmation email for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill out paper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 90 days of departure, your forms must be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.

Reservations and Deposits

A $1200/person deposit is required at the time of reservation. For groups of 5 or more people, a second deposit of $1200/person is due 165 days before departure. Deposits may be made by check, money order, or Visa/Mastercard (American Express and Discover incur a 3% processing fee). Prices are in US Dollars, and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Payment of the deposit establishes your acceptance of our complete Terms and Conditions. Individual departures and trip capacity are strictly limited by the managing agency.

Canceling your trip after your deposit is processed will incur cancellation fees because OARS has absorbed costs on your behalf and will turn others away who would like to book the spaces we’re holding for you. Final payment is due 105 days before departure. Accounts on which final payment has not been received 95 days before the departure date will be canceled without exception.

Cancellations and Refunds

Your deposit is fully refundable, less a 3% processing fee, for 7 days after you book when you submit a deposit 7 days or more before the final payment due date.
If you must cancel your reservation after the rescission period described above, your cancellation fee will be determined according to the schedule below. We regret we cannot make exceptions to the cancellation policy for any reason, including foul weather, poor air quality, wildfire activity, acts of terrorism, civil unrest, or personal emergencies. There is no refund for arriving late or leaving a trip early. For these reasons, we strongly urge you to consider purchasing a travel protection plan.

For Reservations of Up to 4 People:

Date of CancellationCancellation Fee
160 or more days before your trip$250/person cancellation fee, or payment may be transferred to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
159 – 106 days before your tripDeposit is non-refundable, or payment may be transferred to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
105 – 70 days before your tripFull payment is non-refundable, or payment may be transferred to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
69 – 0 days before your trip100% of trip price

For Reservations of 5 or More People:

Date of CancellationCancellation Fee
160 or more days before your trip$250/person cancellation fee, or payment may be transferred to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
159 – 106 days before your tripBoth deposits are non-refundable, or payment may be transferred to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
105 – 70 days before your trip50% of full payment is forfeited. Remaining balance is non-refundable but transferable to a new departure date within one year of original trip date
69 – 0 days before your trip100% of trip price

Transfers

If we receive notification canceling your reservation at least 181 days before your planned departure, a one-time transfer of the deposit may be made to another Galápagos Origins of Species trip that departs within one year from the original departure date.

A transfer to another departure date with less than 180 days notice before departure is considered a cancellation; thus, all payments to date will be subject to the cancellation penalties outlined above.

Canceled Trips

OARS International and the outfitter INCA/Inca Floats, Inc. reserve the right to cancel any trip due to insufficient registration or other factors that make the trip impractical to operate. Do not make nonrefundable travel arrangements unless you have spoken to your Adventure Consultant regarding the status of your trip.

If a trip must be canceled or postponed due to force majeure (factors outside the control of OARS), OARS will provide full credit for payments made toward future travel, or a refund less a 5% service fee plus any nonrefundable payments made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers. OARS will make good faith efforts to recover deposits made on your behalf to 3rd-party suppliers, however, we can’t guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made. OARS is not responsible for expenses incurred by participants in preparation for a canceled trip.

Our Origin of Species: Galápagos Islands vacation is run by an affiliate company and arranged through O.A.R.S. International, Inc.

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