The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are the pinnacle of natural discovery, often heralded as the world’s ‘living museum’ for its spectacularly diverse and often unusual wildlife.
The Galapagos Islands were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, and you can uncover the same flora and fauna that inspired Darwin as you explore the islands on a luxury superyacht charter. At the confluence of three ocean currents, the Galapagos Islands boast one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the world, perfect for cruising on your yacht. Above the water, the unique moon-like landscapes of the Galapagos Islands have been formed by ongoing seismic and volcanic activity, creating a breath-taking scenery to immerse yourself in. The opportunities for a superyacht adventure in this archipelago are ceaseless, with thrilling experiences and natural encounters both above and below the water surface.
Wildlife
The Galapagos Islands are admired for the fascinating array of wildlife which inhabit the dramatic landscape, presenting a haven for nature enthusiasts and curious travellers. 1,000 kilometres off the west coast of Ecuador and isolated from the mainland, the Galapagos Islands have ensured that rare species of reptiles, bird and mammals have evolved across the islands.
These species were the basis for Charles Darwin’s 1839 publication “Voyage of the Beagle”, and still to today they provide a unique insight into how ecological, evolutionary and biogeographic processes influence flora and fauna. For superyachts, this means that there are enthralling natural experiences that simply cannot be found anywhere else in the world.
From marine iguanas and flightless cormorants, to pastel flamingos and fur seals, the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands will leave you in awe. A superyacht charter in the Galapagos Islands fully embraces the ethos of exploration, and treats guests to an exclusive natural splendour.
Cruising and Diving
Beyond the picturesque coastlines and enticing beaches, the Galapagos Marine Reserve offers an underwater wildlife spectacle to discover at some of the world’s best dive sites.
In a region with such abundant sea life, diving experiences are enhanced by spectacular encounters with a wide range of species. In total, there are over 2,900 marine species monitored in the surrounding waters, including whales, dolphins, albatrosses, sharks, sea lions and penguins.
The Galapagos Marine Reserve covers 133,000 square kilometres of azure blue waters, filled with unique treasures under the surface. This is one of the largest and most biologically diverse marine protected areas, but also boasts incredible naturally formed underwater mountains, known as seamounts.
Superyacht charters through the Galapagos Marine Reserve will take you through mesmerising coral reefs, lagoons and underwater cliffs amongst many other fascinating stops.
A Protected Paradise
With a strictly limited human footprint, the Galapagos Island fits in perfectly with the exclusivity and privacy of a luxury superyacht charter. Only 3% of the total emerged surface of the Galapagos Islands are rural or urban areas, with 97% protected by the National Park. Spending time in these islands, you will truly be able to detach from the outside world and immerse yourself in a majestic natural environment.
8 Days Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Island is a protected sanctuary where nature and wildlife flourish, perfect for a superyacht charter which embraces outdoor adventures. These remote islands draw in travellers for the incredible wildlife and diving experiences, providing plenty of inspiration both above and below the water level. Whether you are a nature lover or just in search of some blissful R&R, an itinerary cruising the Galapagos Islands is an excellent option.
Day 1: Santa Cruz – Hood Island
Your journey through the Galapagos Islands begins from the island of Santa Cruz. Boarding your luxury superyacht, your welcoming crew will soon have you feeling pampered as you settle in with a glass of champagne on the decks. After an exquisite first meal onboard your superyacht, prepared by your exclusive chef, you will enjoy an evening cruise towards Hood Island. Waking up in Hood Island, you will feel detached from the outside world as you revel in the natural beauty of the island and its Punta Suarez Bay.
Day 2: Hood Island – Gardner Bay
Anchoring in Punta Suarez Bay in the morning, you will have your first opportunity to delve into the waters for a refreshing swim to start your day right. After an indulgent breakfast and slow morning enjoying the luxuries of your superyacht, you will head to shore where adventurous trails await.
Relaxing on the beach, you will be able to soak up the sun while looking out for the sea lions who call these waters home. Returning to your superyacht, you will head to the nearby Gardner Bay, an ideal spot to launch some of your water toys. Tonight, you will stay overnight at Gardner Bay.
Day 3: Gardner Bay – Floreana Island – Punta Cormorant
Departing early in the morning, you will sail west to the Floreana Island. This small island is steeped in fascinating pirate history and diverse nature including blue footed boobies, Darwin finches and penguins. You can explore the island’s pirate caves and in the north eastern area enjoy amazing diving experiences. From Floreana Island you will head east to Punta Cormorant, where white sandy beaches and sea turtles will greet you. At Devil’s Crown, there is another fantastic site for diving or snorkelling, and you will anchor tonight in Punta Cormorant after a day of exciting activities.
Day 4: Punta Cormorant – Puerto Villamil
Leaving early in the morning, you will now head for the small port village of Puerto Villamil. Puerto Villamil is the main settlement on the south-eastern tip of the Galapagos’ largest island, Isla Isabela. This is one of the most volcanically active islands in the world, and hikes up to the Chico Volcano offer a unique experience as you witness smoking fumaroles. In Puerto Villamil, you will dine out in one of the local seafood restaurants, where you will savour the fresh local produce and enjoy a charming atmosphere.
Day 5: Puerto Villamil – Tagus Cove – Punta Vicente Roca
A longer sail this morning towards Tagus Cove is certainly worthwhile, as dolphins and whales can be spotted along the way.
Arriving at Tagus Cove, you will venture inland to discover a wonderful nature trail which leads onto some brilliant scenery and panoramic views. Look out for flightless cormorants, penguins and pelicans as you make your way along this brilliant trail. From Tagus Cove you will head north to Punta Vicente Roca for more colourful diving and snorkelling opportunities in the enchanting sunken caves.
Day 6: Punta Vincente Roca – Tower Island
The next stop along your superyacht charter in the Galapagos is Tower Island. The distance from Punta Vicente Roca to Tower Island is the longest to be covered yet, and gives you a great chance to enjoy all of the onboard luxuries and spend quality time with family and friends.
Tower Island is home to indigenous birds that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Hiking up the Prince Philip’s Steps you will be treated to an incredible view over Darwin Bay. You will again be able to satisfy your curiosity for the underwater delights of the Galapagos as you snorkel along the cliffs and off the beaches of Tower Island.
Day 7: Tower Island – Santiago Island – Bartolome
The penultimate day of your luxury superyacht charter is packed full of adventure. Heading northwest, you will arrive at the black sand beaches of South James Bay on Santiago Island. Jumping ashore to follow exciting walking trails through the island, you will discover Fur Seal Grottos and reach Sullivan Bay in the north east. Sullivan Bay is a unique landscape with volcanic origins, essentially being a huge lava field, and here you will explore this intriguing terrain and swim amongst local sea lions. From Santiago Island you will head to Bartolome, and see the most famous landmark of the Galapagos Islands, Pinnacle Rock. The smallest species of penguin in the world is also found here, while turtles nest on the southern beach. You will anchor in Bartolome Bay overnight.
Day 8: Bartolome – South Plaza – Santa Fe
The penultimate day of your luxury superyacht charter is packed full of adventure. Heading northwest, you will arrive at the black sand beaches of South James Bay on Santiago Island. Jumping ashore to follow excitinThe final stop included on your journey through the Galapagos is South Plaza, one of the smaller islands. In South Plaza you will encounter an impressive sea lion colony, as well as colourful flora that is especially breath-taking in the first half of the year. Returning to Santa Cruz after an awe-inspiring week in one of the world’s most protected natural environments, you will stop at the beautiful lagoon in Santa Fe. You can choose to take another adventurous hike around, swim in the tranquil bay or simply enjoy the exclusivity and luxury of your superyacht after a week of thrilling encounters.
