“Days of unforgettable adventure in Galapagos”
5 Day Wonderful Adventure and Wildlife Tour in Galapagos, Ecuador Aboard The Seaman Journey
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador
Ecuador Wildlife Tour in The Galapagos
Experience the wonders of the Galapagos Islands on a five-day, four-night journey aboard the Seaman Journey catamaran. This carefully designed itinerary offers a deep dive into the unique ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes of the archipelago.
Key information
- Group wildlife tour
- Maximum group size of 16 participants
- Starts in San Cristóbal Island and ends in Baltra
- Naturalist bilingual guide - level II or III (English and Spanish)
- Children from 4 to 18 years old can join under the supervision of a parent or guardian
- Park fee and local taxes not included
Highlights
- 4 days of activities
- Chance to see sea lions, frigate birds, pelicans, herons, and seagulls
- Visit Gianni Arismendy Environmental Interpretation Center
- 4 nights accommodation
- Daily meals
- Transfers to and from the airport
Styles
5 activity days in English
The organizer also speaks: Spanish
Group size: Maximum of 16 participants
Airport transfer included:
San Cristóbal Airport
Accommodation
Facilities
- Air-conditioned public areas
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Dining area
- Multilingual staff
- Restaurant
- Meeting room
- Wireless internet
The Galapagos Seaman Journey is a first-class catamaran that offers a luxurious and adventurous experience in the Galapagos Islands. With a capacity for 16 passengers, it combines comfort, elegance, and stability. Guests can enjoy encounters with endemic species and relax in well-furnished, spacious areas and expansive decks while taking in breathtaking ocean views. With a bar and lounge area staffed by dedicated personnel, this catamaran is the perfect choice for an unforgettable experience in the Galapagos.
First-class or superior expedition cruise
With a capacity of 16 passengers, this cruise is perfect for families and friends looking for a niche boutique experience in the Galapagos.
Activities for everyone
On board, there will be plenty of activities to choose from, like snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and more.
Spacious suites and cabins
On the main deck, there are six standard suites, and on the upper deck, there are two matrimonial suites.
Cabins
- Panoramic windows to enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the islands
- Private bathroom, hot or cold water, hair dryer, toiletries
- Air conditioning with independent controls
- Twin beds in standard suites
- Queen beds in matrimonial cabins
- Sofa beds for converting the matrimonial cabin into a triple room
- Safe box in all cabins for personal belongings
Facilities
- Indoor dining and living room
- Al fresco dining room
- Tanning area
- Cocktail area
- Lounge area
Enjoy aboard
- Menus for special requirements (vegan, vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free)
- Organic toiletries and amenities by ECO TERRA
- Interactive cooking lessons
- Four sea kayaks
- Snorkeling equipment
- All sizes of wetsuits available for rent
Commitment to the environment
Galapagos Seaman Journey uses good quality fuel, as well as a manufacturer's certificate validating the boat's machinery as a minimum pollution component. It has one of the lowest fuel consumption rates per guest on any yacht in the Galapagos, being within the lower one percent consumption range. At the anchoring sites, the main machines are switched off and only one of the generators is allowed to work, its power (60 hp) ensures that it is a low noise source, and the machines are also lined on the inside with noise-insulating material.
The catamaran, when underway or when anchored in any permitted location on the islands, uses lights necessary only for the activity in all external sectors of the decks, so as not to affect the nocturnal marine life. Food waste that is discharged into the sea passes through a food grinder during navigation.
The same process is done with black water, which is filtered until it reaches the status of potable water. No liquid ballast is used for the operation of the catamaran and tank cleaning is done exclusively during dry dock. They also maintain a means of communication with the community to clarify doubts about the environmental management of the project. They support activities that contribute to the sustainability of community relations as well.
Used lubricating oils and similar are rigorously retained for delivery to the port and other waste is managed according to the procedures of the approved waste management plan. The paints used on the catamaran are lead-free and they prevent the attachment of sessile organisms such as mollusks or algae, which is also known as "antifouling." This reduces the catamaran's environmental impact when sailing.
Laundry
Most hotels on the mainland offer laundry service for a nominal fee, provided you stay long enough to get your clothes washed (usually at least one day). Some hotels will allow you to leave your dirty clothes to be washed while you are in the Galapagos and pick them up clean on your return, but make special arrangements with the hotel receptionist so that your clothes are not lost. They do not offer laundry service on yachts.
Smoking policy
Smoking is not permitted inside the yachts but is allowed in designated areas on the outside decks. Park regulations prohibit smoking on all Galapagos Islands.
Program
Itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Galapagos - Gianni Arismendy Environmental Interpretation Center
On this day, you will fly to the Galapagos Island. Due to the Galapagos Government, a fee of 20 USD must be paid for the migration control card. Once in San Cristobal, passengers must go through an inspection point at the airport to make sure that no foreign plants or animals are being introduced to the archipelago. Also, this inspection point is where passengers have to pay for the entrance to the Galapagos National Park at an additional cost of 200 USD for foreign passengers and 100 USD for children (under 12 years old). Later on, your guide will pick you up and carry your luggage to the bus.
You will arrive at the Catamaran Seaman Journey on a motorized boat called a panga. Travelers embark on a journey to San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. The day begins with a flight to this unique archipelago, where visitors must pay a fee for the migration control card and the entrance to the Galapagos National Park, ensuring that they contribute to the conservation efforts of this delicate ecosystem. Upon arrival, guests are greeted and taken to the Gianni Arismendy Environmental Interpretation Center, which offers stunning ocean views and lush gardens.
This is an interpretation center with exuberant gardens and stunning ocean views. Visitors at the interpretation center can learn a lot about the geological and human history of the islands, conservation facts, and natural history. This is the oldest museum of Natural History in the Galapagos Islands which attempts to preserve the archipelago. It is indeed inspiring and motivating to watch and learn about all of their research and attempts.
Day 2: San Cristobal Island, Punta Pitt - Lobos Island, San Cristobal Island
The adventure begins with a visit to Punta Pitt, located at the eastern end of the island. Punta Pitt is located at the eastern end of the island of San Cristobal, with a beach of approximately 90 meters and several natural viewpoints overhanging an eroded hill of volcanic tuff. A 1,400-meter trail leads from the beach called Oliviana to the top of the hill, which is colored by different types of lava. The strong winds present on the hill have caused a natural erosion that produces fantastic and memorable landscapes that look like something out of a science fiction movie.
A beautiful olive-yellow color with bright crystals from the erosion of lava and shells paints the sand of Oliviana Beach, where sea lions lie in the sun watching the flight of frigate birds, pelicans, herons, and seagulls. Pitt islet is one of the few places where the three species of boobies (blue-footed, red-footed, and masked) and the two species of frigate birds can be observed in the same area. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Isla Lobos, a small islet named for its resident sea lions that frolic on its white sandy beaches.
Just a 20-minute boat ride from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Isla Lobos is classified as a premier diving site with two piers for exploring the underwater world alongside playful sea lions. The protected channel offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, allowing visitors to observe diverse marine life. The name Isla Lobos is given to it as it is home to several sea lions, which frolic on the beach; their brown fur stands out against the white sand. Isla Lobos is approximately 20 minutes by boat (10 kilometers) from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal Island.
Classified as a tourist diving site, it has two piers from which tourists can explore the bottom of the ocean accompanied by sea lions. In its waters, a protected channel offers a fantastic place for snorkeling. An 850-meter-long trail runs along the island, connecting the two piers. The estimated time of the walk is one hour, during which you can observe coastal vegetation of saltwater-tolerant plants. Its name is due to the two species of sea lions that inhabit it. The sea lions are related to the California sea lions, while the two-furred sea lions, known as fur seals, have their origins in Antarctica.
Day 3: Española Island, Gardner Bay - Suarez Point
On this day, you will visit Gardner Bay on Española Island, known for its stunning beach that is perfect for swimming and kayaking. This area provides excellent opportunities to spot sea lions and even sharks in the crystal-clear waters. Birdwatchers will delight in observing three species of Darwin's finches as well as blue-footed boobies and albatrosses. A highlight of this location is the magnificent blowhole that spouts water high into the air.
Located on the northeastern coast of Hood Island, Gardner Bay offers an excellent beach for relaxing, swimming, and even kayaking, along with the opportunity to observe sea lions (Zalophus wollebaki). Here, you can also spot sharks in the crystal-clear ocean waters. At this location, you can observe three species of Darwin finches:
- A subspecies of the large-billed cactus finch (Geospiza fuliginosa), which resembles the large-billed terrestrial finch;
- The small-beaked ground finch (Geospiza fuliginosa); and
- The singing finch (Certhidea Olivacea), another endemic subspecies
Both resident and migratory birds can be observed in this area. This area is excellent for spotting blue-footed boobies, albatrosses, and Nazca boobies. Situated on the oceanfront, it is a beautiful site where the large waved albatrosses use the cliff as a launching pad. The famous attraction here is the magnificent blowhole, which spurts water high into the air, reaching heights of at least 50 to 75 meters. This site offers wonderful photography opportunities.
Day 4: Cormorant Point, Champion Islet - Post Office Bay
Explore Cormorant Point, home to one of the largest flamingo lagoons in the Galapagos Islands. Surrounded by tuff lava cones, this area is rich in biodiversity, featuring various shorebirds alongside flamingos. Visitors can enjoy two distinct beaches: the green beach with olivine crystals and the flour sand beach made of coral. After a scenic walk, the group will head to Champion Islet for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life such as sea turtles and colorful fish. This site probably offers the best flamingo lagoon in the Galapagos; it is also one of the largest in the islands.
It is situated between two tuff lava cones that give the area a special atmosphere. There are various species of shorebirds to observe besides flamingos; the most frequent are common stilts, white-cheeked pintail ducks, and other migratory birds. It is very interesting to see the two distinct beaches: “The Green Beach” (due to its high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand) and the “Flour Sand Beach” which is made up of coral. After the interesting walk, the group is taken to Champion Islet, a great place to enjoy snorkeling and underwater wildlife.
Some of the animals that can be seen are sea turtles, sea lions, and multiple fish thanks to the nearby coral reef. The adventure continues with a visit to Post Office Bay, historically significant as a wooden barrel post office established by whalers in the 18th century. This charming tradition allows visitors to hand-deliver letters or postcards to their intended recipients. Historically, this site is the location of a wooden barrel that was placed in the 18th century by the crew of a whaling ship.
It has been used since this time by mariners and tourists as a post office. The idea is to carry letters or postcards to their destination by hand. Besides, this site was the landing area for some of the first colonists. This day’s afternoon is thought to be a relaxing time for visitors to enjoy the beach and the beauty of the Galapagos.
Day 5: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center
You will visit the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, part of the Charles Darwin Foundation’s conservation efforts. Located within Galapagos National Park, this center provides insights into giant tortoise breeding programs aimed at preserving these iconic species. Visitors can walk along elevated paths to observe Lonesome George and other tortoises from Española Island. The Fausto Llerena Breeding Center is one kilometer from the Gus Angermeyer Tourist Pier. After a 40-minute walk, the attraction is part of the network of visitor sites of the Charles Darwin Foundation.
The visit starts at the information booth of the Galapagos National Park Service (SPNG). The trail leads to the Van Straelen Interpretation Center, then to the breeding center. From there, an elevated circular path begins, made of wood, from where you can observe Lonesome George and the tortoises of Española Island. It ends at the tortoise exhibition corral. After the visit, you will be transferred to the Baltra airport in time for your flight back to the mainland.
About the tour
The Seaman Journey offers a five-day adventure filled with exciting activities. On the first day, after arriving at San Cristobal Island, you will visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the history and ecology of the Galapagos. Day two includes exploring Punta Pitt, where you will hike, and birdwatch. On day three, you will visit Española Island's Gardner Bay and Suarez Point to encounter sea lions, Darwin finches, and albatrosses. Day four brings you to Cormorant Point and Champion Islet for birdwatching and snorkeling. The final day wraps up with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station.
From the moment you land in San Cristobal, you will explore world-renowned sites like the Interpretation Center, Punta Pitt, and Española Island, home to rare wildlife and pristine beaches. Whether you're hiking volcanic trails, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or observing iconic species like the Galapagos tortoises and blue-footed boobies, this adventure promises a rich blend of nature, discovery, and relaxation in one of the most extraordinary environments on Earth. Explore the oldest islands of the archipelago, the highlands of these areas boast tropical cloud forests and developed flora.
Espanola island is one of the gems of the archipelago, it is the only place in the world where the waved albatross nests and features colorful iguanas. The Post office bay is another highlight of this route. Embark on a remarkable journey through the Galapagos Islands, starting with your arrival at San Cristobal Island. After navigating through migration control and paying the necessary park fees, you will be greeted by your guide and taken to the Gianni Arismendy Environmental Interpretation Center.
This center offers stunning ocean views and lush gardens, providing insights into the islands' geological and human history. Your adventure continues at Punta Pitt, where you can hike a scenic trail adorned with unique lava formations and observe diverse wildlife, including sea lions and various bird species. As you explore further, Isla Lobos invites you to snorkel in its protected waters, swimming alongside playful sea lions and vibrant marine life. On Española Island, relax on the beautiful shores of Gardner Bay, where you can spot blue-footed boobies and enjoy kayaking in crystal-clear waters.
The trip also includes visits to Cormorant Point, known for its stunning flamingo lagoon, and the historical Post Office Bay, where you can engage in a unique tradition of hand-delivering letters. Finally, conclude your experience at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre, learning about conservation efforts for the iconic giant tortoises before heading back to Baltra for your return flight.
Galapagos National Park entrance fee
It costs 200 USD (or 100 USD for children under 12) is paid at Baltra or San Cristóbal airport. Please be sure to carry the above amounts in cash. No credit cards or traveler's checks are accepted. Please note that 100 USD bills are not accepted in Galapagos.
Location
The tour will take place in Ecuador.
Food
All meals on board the cruise are included. Latin Trails have their own hydroponic orchards on San Cristobal Island, where they harvest produce such as lettuce, tomatoes, lemons, oranges, and more in order to supply themselves with organic ingredients. This avoids the arrival of introduced species that come with sourcing from mainland Ecuador.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
Things to do (optional)
Once you arrive on the islands, you will have plenty of opportunities to participate in other activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and sea kayaking. For those who enjoy horses, horseback riding can be arranged while staying at haciendas on the mainland, which also offer excellent hiking. It is really up to you how much or how little you want to participate in activities versus relaxing. Latin Trails offers diving extension trips. Divers must be experienced and must meet certain diving requirements before the trip.
- Wetsuit rental - 15 USD per day (available on board)
What's included
- All visits and excursions according to the itinerary
- 4 nights accommodation
- All meals during the cruise
- Unlimited purified water, coffee, and tea
- Roundtrip airport transfers
- Snorkel gear (mask, tube, and fins)
- Kayaks
- Airport assistance in Galapagos
- Transfers in Galapagos
- Naturalist bilingual guide - level II or III
- Fuel surcharge
What's not included
- Airfare
- Galapagos National Park entrance fee
- Galapagos Ingala card
- Tips
- Local taxes
- Travel insurance
- Meals and services not mentioned above
- Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
- Extras and personal expenses
How to get there
Recommended Airports
SCY
San Cristóbal Airport
1 km
Transfer included
Arrival by airplane
Please book your flight to arrive at San Cristóbal Airport (SCY). Transfer from and to the airport is included. Latin Trails will pick you up from the airport. The Seaman Journey cruise staff will be there to welcome you and transfer you to the catamaran. At the end of the itinerary, they will also ensure you are taken back to the airport for your departure. Upon arrival, you will go through Immigration first and then customs. First, you will be asked to present your passport and an arrival form (usually handed out on board your flight before landing).
Be sure your entrance papers are officially stamped showing the number of days you are allowed to stay in the country. You will be given a copy of the arrival form. Keep it in a safe place with your passport, as you will need it to leave the country. If it is lost, you will need to fill out a new one at the airline counter when you check in for your departing flight. Next, you will proceed to pick up your luggage. If you require assistance some porters can help you. The standard gratuity is 2 USD per bag. If you or your group has arranged a private transfer, look for the transfer agent just outside customs.
They will have a sign with your name or the name of your group on it. Usually, if you are arriving by plane, late at night, and do not feel comfortable being alone in a foreign country, they recommend a private transfer, which they can arrange for you. If you take a taxi to your hotel, they recommend that you make sure the taxi has a running meter. You can book taxis at one of the reservation windows outside of customs.
Most hotels in Quito and Guayaquil are located in the city. Be sure to either get a quote or negotiate the fare before getting in the vehicle. They recommend that you plan to leave Quito or Guayaquil no earlier than the day after you return to Quito from your cruise. This will give you at least one more night in Quito to ensure that you do not miss your international flight in case of flight delays.
Airport: San Cristóbal Airport
Airport transfer included: San Cristóbal Airport
No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 60 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookAllSafaris.com. All major credit cards supported.
137170
Similar Safari Holidays you might like
Why choose BookAllSafaris.com
Largest Selection
Friendly Customer Service
Offers for every budget
Best Price