Treasures of Galapagos: Western & Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Treasures of Galapagos: Western & Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

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13 Days From

$11015

$9396

Treasures of Galapagos: Western & Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

13 Days Starting and ending in Quito

Visiting: Quito, Isla Baltra/Punta Carrion, Isla Isabela/Las Tintoreras/Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, Isla Floreana/Post Office Bay/Devil's Crown/Punta Cormorant, Isla Santa Cruz/Charles Darwin Station/Santa Cruz Highlands, Isla Santa Fe/Isla Plaza Sur, Isla Espanola/Bahia Gardner/Punta Suarez, Isla San Cristobal/Leon Dormido/Isla Lobos/Punta Pitt, Isla San Cristobal, Bartolome/Bahia Sullivan, Isla Santiago/Espumilla Beach/Buccaneer Cove/Puerto Egas, Isla Santa Cruz/Puerto Ayora

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GMQJ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Expedition Cruising

From: $11015 $9396 Operator discount: -$1619 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an immersive 13-day Adventure Cruise through the Galapagos Islands and experience the natural world in all its glory. Encounter diverse wildlife, from lumbering giant tortoises and sunbathing sea lions to scuttling crabs and blue-footed boobies. Wander through lava flow on Las Tintoreras, snorkel in the waters of protected cove Punta Carrion, and stick your toes in the olivine-crystal sands of Punta Cormorant. This itinerary allows plenty of time to absorb the spoils of this unique, wildlife-rich archipelago. Cruise into another world for the trip of a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Encounter nature at its finest as you follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, spotting some of the strangest and most beautiful creatures on earth in their natural habitats.

  • Watch ponderous Galapagos tortoises at all stages of life and development in breeding centres, then search for these ancient creatures in the wild highlands of Isla Santa Cruz.

  • The sea lions of the Galapagos are famously inquisitive creatures. Don’t be surprised if they swim over to check you out while you’re in the water!

  • This tour combines active adventure with pure relaxation, including plenty of free time to unwind on the deck with a beer in hand in between hikes and snorkelling sessions.

  • Island-hopping has never been easier (or more environmentally friendly) than in our compact, custom-built ship the Grand Queen Beatriz.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, The Galapagos Conservancy. Donations support their Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing capital for sustainability initiatives and empowering female entrepreneurs in the Galapagos. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Welcome to Quito! On arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure until a welcome meeting this evening. The meeting will be held at either 5 pm or 6 pm, please check with hotel reception or the reception notice board for the exact time and location. After your welcome meeting, head out with your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional flavours and get to know you group as you settle into the coming adventure. Quito sits at high altitude under the towering Pichincha volcano. It is a beautiful city, arguably one of the most beautiful in South America, and there is plenty to occupy you should you arrive with time to spare. The Old Town, for example, has many museums and churches to explore, including the ornate La Compania de Jesus.

Day 2: Isla Baltra/Punta Carrion

Location: Isla Baltra/Punta Carrion

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Rise and shine for a very early airport transfer. The pick-up time can be as early as 4.30 am, which is necessary in order to guarantee timely arrival at the airport and make the most of your precious time in the Galapagos. Your leader will confirm the exact time of departure during the welcome meeting on Day 1, and a boxed breakfast will be provided on the 1-hour drive to the airport.

Board the plane and make the approximately 3.5-hour flight to the islands, stopping en route to pick up passengers in Guayaquil.

On arrival in the Galapagos you will be met in the arrivals hall and then transferred to your motor yacht, M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz, anchored a short distance away off Isla Baltra. Once on board you’ll be assigned your cabins, meet the crew members and have a welcome briefing and safety drill before getting to know your naturalist guide and fellow travellers over a delicious lunch.

Your first stop in the afternoon will be Punta Carrion, located on the eastern side of the Itabaca channel that separates the islands of Baltra and Santa Cruz. This is a shallow and protected cove, ideal for your first snorkel and swim in the Galapagos! From the vantage point of your boat, wildlife is plentiful, so keep your eyes peeled for occasional sights of blue-footed boobies, Galapagos herons and great blue herons, while under the surface swim rays and white-tipped reef sharks.

Tonight, enjoy a welcome cocktail and crew presentation on board.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Isla Baltra to Punta Carrion: 1.5 hours (10 nautical miles)
Punta Carrion to Isla Isabela (Puerto Villamil): 9 hours (64 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Punta Carrion - Snorkelling (1 hour)

Day 3: Isla Isabela/Las Tintoreras/Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

Location: Isla Isabela/Las Tintoreras/Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today you will wake up on the south Coast of Isla Isabela, the largest island of the Galapagos Archipelago. Isabela was formed by five giant volcanic craters, all of which are still considered active. The island is in one of the youngest geological areas in the world, formed less than 1 million years ago.

This southern coast has the largest area of beaches in the Galapagos. You will visit Las Tintoreras, where from the viewing walkway you can look down into this narrow channel to see a colony of white-tipped reef sharks swimming and sleeping, and the occasional playful sea lion among them!

Blue-footed boobies, penguins, and crabs also make their home here. Enjoy a nice long walk on a gravel path through aa (pronounced ah-ah) lava flow and see plenty of marine iguanas.

In the afternoon, take another leisurely walk through a coastal lagoon, where you might be able to catch sight of flamingos. The mangrove-lined path leads to Arnaldo Tupiza Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, where you'll observe giant tortoises at all stages of development. Here you can see the five sub-species of tortoises from Isla Isabela, some of which are bred in captivity.

You will then have the choice of optional swimming at the beach or heading out for some shopping in Puerto Villamil.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Isla Isabela (Puerto Villamil) to Post Office Bay: 6 hours (40 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla Isabela - Las Tintoreras visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Isabela - Arnolda Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center including Flamingo Lagoon (2 hours) - Dry Landing

Day 4: Isla Floreana/Post Office Bay/Devil's Crown/Punta Cormorant

Location: Isla Floreana/Post Office Bay/Devil's Crown/Punta Cormorant

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

The island of Floreana is a highlight of any Galapagos cruise, rich in natural wonders and wildlife even by the high standards set by the archipelago. Enjoy a panga ride around the loberia to observe marine iguanas, sea lions and crabs before taking a leisurely walk to Post Office Bay, where 18th-century whalers used a barrel as an unofficial mail drop. This custom continues to this day with visitors to the Galapagos – post one of your own or see if there are any you can deliver back home! You will also have the chance to go snorkelling with sea turtles.

Today is also one of your finest opportunities to see pink flamingos and other water birds wading in the lagoons, including pintails and stilts. Just offshore, the Devil’s Crown is an eroded volcanic cone and a popular roosting site for seabirds such as boobies, pelicans and frigates. Red-billed tropicbirds can also be seen nesting in the rocky crevices. The centre of the cone is an outstanding snorkelling spot, perhaps the most remarkable in the entire archipelago, full of sea lions and colourful fish.

Go ashore at Punta Cormorant where the sand is made up of fine olivine crystals, a glassy volcanic mineral, giving the beach an olive-green colour. It is the best place to see Galapagos sea lions, so get your camera ready.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Post Office Bay to Punta Cormorant: 0.5 hours (3 nautical miles)
Punta Cormorant to Puerto Ayora: 4 hours (32 nautical miles)



Included Activities:
-Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
-Isla Floreana - Punta Cormorant walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
-Isla Floreana - Devil's Crown snorkelling (1 hour)
-Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay snorkelling (45 mins)

Day 5: Isla Santa Cruz/Charles Darwin Station/Santa Cruz Highlands

Location: Isla Santa Cruz/Charles Darwin Station/Santa Cruz Highlands

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today you will visit Santa Cruz, the second-largest island in the Galapagos. The small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic centre of the archipelago, and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers the best opportunities for close encounters with giant tortoises. You will also observe baby tortoises and land iguanas.

Afterward you will head up into the highlands for a total change of scenery. Beginning at the coast you'll travel across Santa Cruz through the agricultural region and into the misty forests, with the journey taking about 45 mins. This is a lush humid zone containing miconia bushes, scalesia and inactive volcanic cones. Santa Cruz has more endemic plants than any of the other islands and you are likely to see Galapagos giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and perhaps even the bright red feathers of a vermillion flycatcher!

Today there will be some passengers leaving the tour and some new passengers joining.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Puerto Ayora to the Highlands: 45 mins by bus
Puerto Ayora to Santa Fe: 2 hours (16 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

Day 6: Isla Santa Fe/Isla Plaza Sur

Location: Isla Santa Fe/Isla Plaza Sur

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Isla Santa Fe is home to many sea lions and these ones are very eager for swimming partners! It’s a lovely place to take a dip, offers a dense concentration of wildlife, and is a fantastic place to see many of the stars of the Galapagos in one relatively small area. Expect to see Galapagos hawks, land iguanas, a variety of finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, sea lions, marine turtles, frigatebirds, Galapagos doves and lava lizards. It’s a naturally beautiful island as well with one of the most attractive coves in the archipelago and the jade-green waters are ideal for snorkelling. A trail follows the coast into the opuntia forest, where you see Santa Fe's trees – the largest in the Galapagos. The island is also home to a unique sub-species of land iguana. Hiking towards the cliffs on Santa Fe will lead you to a forest of prickly pears. A member of the cactus family, their name comes from the pear-shaped fruit the plant produces.

A small island, Plaza Sur is nonetheless a place of great beauty, where you will get close to sea lions and follow trails past one of the Galapagos’s largest land iguana populations, resting amid cacti and volcanic landscapes coloured bright red and green by sesuvium. The island’s rugged southern cliffs are an excellent place to spot tropicbirds and swallow-tailed gulls, as well as the 'Gentlemen’s Club’, a gathering of male sea lions either too young or too old to be beachmasters!

Estimated travel time/distance:
Isla Santa Fe to Isla Plaza Sur: 2 hours (16 nautical miles)
Isla Plaza Sur to Isla Espanola (Punta Suarez): 7 hours (60 nautical miles)

Included Activities:
-Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Santa Fe - Panga ride (45 mins)
-Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing

Day 7: Isla Espanola/Bahia Gardner/Punta Suarez

Location: Isla Espanola/Bahia Gardner/Punta Suarez

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

After an overnight sail, you will wake up on the island of Espanola – the southernmost island of the Galapagos and one of the most spectacular. Because of its remote location, this island has a large population of endemic fauna. It is the breeding site for nearly all of the 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses on Earth, and home to colonies of blue-footed and Nazca boobies.

Trails from the golden beaches, where sea lions bathe and marine iguanas make their way towards the water, will lead you right through the middle of booby colonies, and Galapagos doves and mockingbirds are also often seen.

Pay a visit to Punta Suarez, one of the most attractive locations in the Galapagos and home to a large and varied wildlife population – a walk along its trails will take you to a cliff-top viewpoint, where you'll gain a magical panorama. Boobies line the rocky shoreline beneath you, while frigate birds may be seen overhead; nearby enormous male sea lions can be seen lounging and albatross use the cliffs as their ‘runway’, helped into the air by the southeast winds that blow across this part of the island.

If you’re lucky, you’ll see the elaborate courtship rituals performed by albatross before the female chooses her lifelong mate!

You will also visit the beautiful white sandy beaches at Bahia Gardner, which are great places for swimming and relaxing. The rocks off the coast provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, with reef sharks, turtles, sea lions and many species of tropical fish – including surgeon and angelfish – often seen. The small white-tipped reef sharks are also commonly spotted resting under the rocks.


Estimated travel time/distance:
Punta Suarez to Bahia Gardener: 1 hour (7 nautical miles)
Bahia Gardener to Punta Pitt (Isla San Cristobal): 7 hours (50 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla Espanola - Punta Suarez - Walk (3 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Snorkel (1 hour)
-Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Walk (1 hours) - Wet Landing

Day 8: Isla San Cristobal/Leon Dormido/Isla Lobos/Punta Pitt

Location: Isla San Cristobal/Leon Dormido/Isla Lobos/Punta Pitt

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Make a morning visit to Punta Pitt on the eastern end of Isla San Cristobal. Walk to the top of the volcanic hill for expansive views of the sparsely vegetated area. A variety of seabirds nest here, including blue-footed boobies and frigates.

You will then navigate close by Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) the basalt remains of a crater in the middle of the sea, with the shape resembling a sleeping lion. The rock rises 150 meters above the surface and is divided into two parts by a narrow channel. Although there are no landing areas, you will circumnavigation the Rock where you will see tropic birds, marine iguanas in the water and many sea lions.

Later, visit Isla Lobos, a tiny island off the coast of San Cristobal. This is the perfect time to witness sea lions as they play in the shallow waters. Blue-footed boobies, frigate birds and marine iguanas can also be seen.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Punta Pitt to Kicker Rock (Isla San Cristobal): 2.5 hours (27 nautical miles)
Kicker Rock to Isla Lobos: 1 hour (7 nautical miles)
Isla Lobos to Puerto Baquerizo (Isla San Cristobal): 1 hour (5 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla San Cristobal - Punta Pitt - Walk (2 hours) - Wet Landing
-Isla San Cristobal - Isla Lobos - Walk (1 hour) - Dry Landing

Day 9: Isla San Cristobal

Location: Isla San Cristobal

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Visit San Cristobal Interpretation Center in the morning. This information hub brings the history and geography of the archipelago to life, from its volcanic origins to the present day. The human history exhibit offers an insight into the discovery and colonisation of the Galapagos, and the reality of the problems the islands face today is also explored.

Enjoy some free time for shopping before going on board for lunch and to meet the new travellers who will be joining you today.

This afternoon you will travel into the interior of the island (approximately 45-minute bus ride) to visit the highlands site of Galapaguera of Cerro Colorado (Red Hill) where the national park has established a breeding program and information centre for tortoises. Here, you will be able to see giant tortoises and learn all about their origin, evolution and their threatened future.

Today there will be some passengers leaving the tour and some new passengers joining you.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Puerto Baquerizo (Isla San Cristobal) to Bartolome: 8 hours (70 nautical miles)

Included Activities:
-Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

Day 10: Bartolome/Bahia Sullivan

Location: Bartolome/Bahia Sullivan

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Bartolome is one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the Galapagos, full of parasitic spatter cones, lava flows, Galapagos penguins and lava lizards.

It is a relatively new island in the archipelago and traces of its volcanic past can be seen everywhere across the amazing lunar-like landscape.

The Pinnacle Rock is one of the most photographed sites in the Galapagos – an abrupt jag of rock protruding from the earth like a tooth, close to two golden bays that back onto each other.

You can hike to the top of a once-active volcano here (360 wooden steps), and enjoy superb views across to Sullivan Bay, on nearby Santiago Island. If you’re in luck you might catch a glance of the Galapagos Hawk here. You also have the option to go snorkelling with plenty of tropical fish, starfish, white-tipped reef sharks, rays and, hopefully, penguins.

On Santiago's eastern coast sits Bahia Sullivan, also known as James Island. Here you walk on Pahoe-Hoe lava, from an eruption that occurred in 1897, and witness the colonisation of plant species since the last eruption. Your guide will explain the geological history of the islands as you walk, and with any luck you’ll see marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions, finches, turtles, sharks and penguins.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Bartolome to Isla Santiago (Bahia Sullivan): 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile)
Isla Santiago (Bahia Sullivan) to Espumilla Beach: 3 hours (25 nautical miles)


Included Activities:
-Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
-Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)

Day 11: Isla Santiago/Espumilla Beach/Buccaneer Cove/Puerto Egas

Location: Isla Santiago/Espumilla Beach/Buccaneer Cove/Puerto Egas

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Today you will visit some wonderful places. Espumilla Beach, on the northern coast of Isla Santiago in James Bay, is one of the most idyllic locations in the Galapagos Islands and an important nesting site for marine turtles. With large waves, it is also often a favourite amongst beach lovers.

Potentially you will see Galapagos hawks up close, ghost crabs, blue-footed boobies (often plunging for fish) and brown pelicans. The area is also well known for its palo santo forest and some extraordinary lava formations.

You will also visit Caleta Bucanero (Buccaneer Cove), a natural monument of rocks caused by sea erosion. This cove was used by pirates to careen their ships. It is a place of local legends and stories! It is also where Darwin camped for nine days while making his study of the islands and their wildlife. If conditions are favourable, you can enjoy some further snorkelling.

Puerto Egas is a black-sand beach located on the west side of James Bay and northwest of Santiago Island. South of the beach is Sugarloaf Volcano, which has deposits of volcanic tuff. This site is named Puerto Egas, after Hector Egas who last attempted to mine salt here. The walk along the beach offers hundreds of marine iguanas and Galapagos sea lions. You will also see amazing tidal pools formed from ancient lava flow and home to sponges, snails, hermit crabs, barnacles and fish. Snorkelling with the seals always offers the possibility of thrilling encounters.

Estimated travel time/distance:
Espumilla Beach to Buccaneer Cove: 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile)
Buccaneer Cove to Puerto Egas: 0.5 hours (1 nautical mile)
Puerto Egas to Puerto Ayora: 7 hours (60 nautical miles)

Included Activities:
-Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
-Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
-Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Panga ride or Snorkelling (45 mins)
-Isla Sanitago - Buccaneer's Cove - Panga Ride (45 mins)

Day 12: Isla Santa Cruz/Puerto Ayora

Location: Isla Santa Cruz/Puerto Ayora

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Flights to mainland Ecuador from the Galapagos Islands depart mid-morning, so an early start is necessary to make the most of today’s visit to the small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic centre of the archipelago, and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers the best opportunities for close encounters with giant tortoises. You may also see baby tortoises and land iguanas.

This will be your final excursion before you head to the airport.
Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, enjoy an included transfer to your hotel. Choose whether to join your fellow travellers for an optional dinner this evening.


NOTE; this trip we visits Charles Darwin Research twice, you have the option to have a free morning on day 5.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

Day 13: Quito

Location: Quito

Meals Included: breaksfast

There are no activities planned for today. If you plan on staying in Quito, why not book yourself an Urban Adventure tour that shows you a different side of Ecuador – a bustling city! A Legends and Culture tour will show you the secrets of the Old Town and stories of the city’s colonial streets, with plenty of food thrown in for good measure! Find out more at urbanadventures.com/destination/Quito-tours.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (2 nights), Overnight boat (10 nights)

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Punta Carrion - Snorkelling (1 hour)

  • Isla Isabela - Las Tintoreras visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Isabela - Arnolda Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center including Flamingo Lagoon (2 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing

  • Isla Floreana - Punta Cormorant walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing

  • Isla Floreana - Devil's Crown snorkelling (1 hour)

  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay snorkelling (45 mins)

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Punta Carrion - Snorkelling (1 hour)
  • Isla Isabela - Las Tintoreras visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Isabela - Arnolda Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center including Flamingo Lagoon (2 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Floreana - Punta Cormorant walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Floreana - Devil's Crown snorkelling (1 hour)
  • Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay snorkelling (45 mins)
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (3 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santa Fe - Panga ride (45 mins)
  • Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Espanola - Punta Suarez - Walk (3 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Snorkel (1 hour)
  • Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla San Cristobal - Punta Pitt - Walk (2 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla San Cristobal - Isla Lobos - Walk (1 hour) - Dry Landing
  • Isla San Cristobal - Kicker Rock - Snorkelling (45 minutes)
  • Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
  • Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
  • Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)
  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
  • Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Snorkelling (45 mins)
  • Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (3 hours) - Dry Landing

Transport

  • The Grand Queen Beatriz is a modern motor yacht. She has a comfortable lounge and dining area, a jacuzzi as well as a sun deck where you can view the wildlife or just kick back and relax. She has eight well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins and yet, at 41 metres, she is small enough for us to offer an individual level of service. She's just perfect for a more personal look at this great marine reserve.
  • Cabins:
  • 4xStandard twin cabins
  • 2xJunior Suite cabins
  • 2xDeluxe Balcony cabins
  • All cabins are fully air-conditioned with private facilities
  • Specifications:
  • Built: 2017
  • Length: 40.96 m
  • Beam: 9 m
  • Engines: 2
  • Speed: 12 knots
  • Passengers: 16
  • Crew: 8 + 1 English speaking naturalist guide
  • Zodiacs (locally known as pangas) are modest-sized, open, outboard-powered boats which are very common throughout Galapagos. The boats are used to get you to and from the Grand Queen Bea when you do activities. Depending on the type of activity, this could either be a wet or dry landing. The boat crew are there to assist you getting into and out of the zodiac.

Accommodation

  • The stylish modern design of the Grand Queen Beatriz features large en suite cabins all with individual air conditioning and ocean views. There are 4 Standard twin cabins on the main deck and on the upper deck there are 2 Junior Suite cabins  and 2 deluxe balcony cabins. The upper deck cabins all have private balconies. All cabins are equipped with a safety deposit box, hair dryers and toiletries.

Important Information

  • FELLOW TRAVELLERS:
  • This trip is a package tour and is therefore made up of a combination of shorter trips. This may mean you will travel with a different guide and passengers on each section.
  • GALAPAGOS PARK, TRANSIT CARD & ISABELA ISLANDS PORT FEES:
  • Before checking in for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos, there is a US$20 transit fee that needs to be paid. On arrival in the islands you must pay the US$200 national park fee to enter Galapagos National Park. This applies to everyone aged 13 years and above. For children aged 12 the fee will be USD100.
  • If your voyage visits Isabela Island, there is also a US$10 fee to be paid on arrival at the island.
  • ARRIVAL TRANSFER:
  • This tour includes a complimentary arrival transfer in Quito. Please advise flight details 30 days prior to travel so that the transfer can be organised.
  • PASSPORT DETAILS:
  • When booking, please make sure that your name is spelt correctly, and that you book using the name in your passport (particularly if you are recently married). If you are issued a new passport with a different number between the time that you book and the time you travel, please take both the old and new passports with you.
  • DIETARY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Should you have a special diet requirement (for example vegetarian, celiac, vegan, severe food allergies) it's essential that you inform us or your agent of the specific details at least 10 days prior to departure, in order to make sure the chef on board the boat or on the island can request the necessary food supplies.
  • May and June departures 2024 UPDATE.
  • On the 11th of May 2024, the Galapagos National Park authorities advised, the landing site of Punta Surez on Espanola Island will now reopen. This landing site was temporary closed as part of the biosecurity measures activated to prevent the spread of the Avian flu. All trip departures will now revert to the original itinerary which includes a landing at Punta Suraz, Espanola Island.

Mode of Transport

  • The Grand Queen Beatriz is a modern motor yacht. She has a comfortable lounge and dining area, a jacuzzi as well as a sun deck where you can view the wildlife or just kick back and relax. She has eight well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins and yet, at 41 metres, she is small enough for us to offer an individual level of service. She's just perfect for a more personal look at this great marine reserve.
  • Cabins:
  • 4xStandard twin cabins
  • 2xJunior Suite cabins
  • 2xDeluxe Balcony cabins
  • All cabins are fully air-conditioned with private facilities
  • Specifications:
  • Built: 2017
  • Length: 40.96 m
  • Beam: 9 m
  • Engines: 2
  • Speed: 12 knots
  • Passengers: 16
  • Crew: 8 + 1 English speaking naturalist guide
  • Zodiacs (locally known as pangas) are modest-sized, open, outboard-powered boats which are very common throughout Galapagos. The boats are used to get you to and from the Grand Queen Bea when you do activities. Depending on the type of activity, this could either be a wet or dry landing. The boat crew are there to assist you getting into and out of the zodiac.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The Galapagos Islands are a largely untouched natural paradise. In order to experience the splendour of the diverse landscapes and waters, the included activities on this trip often require a moderate level of fitness. We ask that you read the itinerary carefully to ensure that you will be able to participate fully. The cabins and communal areas of the boat are spread over three decks and the steps between the decks are steep.

    For getting to small islets, coves and prime snorkelling spots, it is sometimes necessary to use a Zodiac boat (panga). You will need to be comfortable climbing in and out of one during wet and dry landings.

    The waters of the Galapagos are generally calm and serene. However, there is always the possibility of choppy water at sea. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) will be needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.

    Please note that while there is an itinerary in place, some changes may occur due to the weather or because of direction from the local authorities. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for potential modifications to the route or activities. A sense of humour and flexibility will ensure you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world no matter what happens.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 16, 2024 - Nov 28, 2024
$11015 $9396

Operator discount: -$1619

Saturday - Thursday

Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 26, 2024
$11225 $9574

Operator discount: -$1651

Saturday - Thursday

Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 20, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 20, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

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Saturday - Thursday

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 26, 2025
$11710

Saturday - Thursday

Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Jul 12, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 30, 2025
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Saturday - Thursday

Nov 15, 2025 - Nov 27, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 29, 2025 - Dec 11, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Dec 13, 2025 - Dec 25, 2025
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 08, 2026
$10770

Saturday - Thursday

Jan 10, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Jan 24, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 19, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Feb 21, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 19, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Mar 21, 2026 - Apr 02, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 04, 2026 - Apr 16, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Apr 18, 2026 - Apr 30, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

May 02, 2026 - May 14, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

May 30, 2026 - Jun 11, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Jun 13, 2026 - Jun 25, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Jun 27, 2026 - Jul 09, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Jul 11, 2026 - Jul 23, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Jul 25, 2026 - Aug 06, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Aug 08, 2026 - Aug 20, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 03, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 05, 2026 - Sep 17, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 01, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Oct 03, 2026 - Oct 15, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Oct 17, 2026 - Oct 29, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Oct 31, 2026 - Nov 12, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 14, 2026 - Nov 26, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Nov 28, 2026 - Dec 10, 2026
$11295

Saturday - Thursday

Dec 12, 2026 - Dec 24, 2026
$11295

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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