Itinerary:
DAY 1: MONDAY - Baltra Island
Arrival by plane to Baltra Island and immediate transfer by bus (5 minutes) to the dock to board the MV SANTA CRUZ. Cabin assignment and introductory welcome talk. Later, lunch, and ship’s boat drill.
DAY 2: TUESDAY - Bartholome Island
Disembark at Bartolomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. Great way to start the day. This is a steep climb aided by a wooden staircase; the view from the top is worth the effort. Panga ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and snorkeling. Chance to snorkel next to Galápagos Penguins. There is also the possibility to ride on the glass bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board.
DAY 3: WEDNESDAY - Darwin Bay (Tower Island)
Before breakfast, early morning entrance into Darwin Bay. Wet landing at a small white-coralline beach for an easy stroll observing hundreds of birds, mainly Great frigate birds, red footed and Nazca (masked) boobies, lava gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. The trail also includes an area of sharp lava and uneven terrain, but you may return to the beach for swimming and snorkeling at this beautiful natural harbor. Those more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs and look for Hammerhead Sharks. Lunch on board. During navigation, spend some time on deck looking for dolphins or possibly whales.
DAY 4: THURSDAY - Santa Fe (Barrington) Island
Early morning disembarkation to visit Santa Fe (Barrington) Island. This island, according to the latest geological studies, shows the islands’ oldest rocks. The small bay on Santa Fe's northern coast provides one of the most picturesque anchorages within the archipelago. Follow the trail among a very tall forest of opuntia cacti, where large land iguanas, that are endemic to Barrington, can be seen. A variety of finches and the Galápagos mockingbird abound. Back to the ship and sail to Santa Cruz Island.
DAY 5: FRIDAY
Visiting the famous Charles Darwin Research Station will be certainly a rewarding adventure for this morning's program. It will just require a different approach, in order to accomplish all our travel plans. This outing is an optional program and an early one.
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