Set Departure

Galapagos Explorer

With Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic

In the Footsteps of Darwin

National Geographic Endeavour II was originally built for expedition cruising in the waters of Tierra del Fuego but underwent a major refit in 2016 when sophisticated and energy efficient technical features were installed, readying her for year-round operation in the Galápagos. She has made the transition to Equatorial life smoothly and you’ll sense her heritage and world-class cruising character during your warm water adventure.

National Geographic Endeavour II accommodates 96 guests in 52 thoughtfully appointed cabins and suites. She is exceptionally nimble and manoeuvrable, with a shallow draft to get up close, great viewing from all public spaces, an expansive open-air observation deck, large windows in cabins and suites, and state-of-the-art tools for exploration.

The ship... 

You will love

  • Excellent guiding
  • Walk, kayak, snorkel & zodiac activities
  • Close up encounters with incredible wildlife
  • Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor
  • Small group excursions
  • Post-tour extensions – please enquire

10 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS

DAY 1 | GUAYAQUIL | 1 NIGHT

Upon arrival in Guayaquil, transfer to the Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil.

DAY 2 | GALAPAGOS | 1 NIGHT

After the 1 1⁄2-hour flight to the Galápagos, we’ll immediately board the ship. Over the course of the week, our exact routing depends on the National Park Service.

DAY 3-8 | GALAPAGOS ISLANDS | 6 NIGHTS

The following is a representative sample of the islands we may visit during your week on board: Bartolomé: This is an enchanting landscape where lava, mangroves and golden sand converge. Great walks and views abound, with a chance to snorkel with Galápagos penguins. Santiago: For close encounters with Galápagos fur seals along with an opportunity to study the inhabitants of the island’s countless tide pools. Santa Cruz: Home to the Charles Darwin Research station; learn about the science done here and visit the neighboring captive breeding program for endangered species of Galápagos giant tortoises, run by their partners in conservation, the Galápagos National Park Service.
Isabela: A small black sand beach offers wonderful morning swimming. Enjoy a more challenging hike over rugged shoreline and a shorter walk within an iguana colony. Kayaking and deep-water snorkeling opportunities are on offer. Fernandina: This is the youngest island in the Galápagos and one of the most pristine tropical islands left on earth. Look forward to hikes over relatively recent lava flows, and spot marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Floreana: Snorkel among sea lions in the clear waters off Champion Islet. We may also find flamingos, pintail ducks and various shorebirds. Hike to a pristine white-sand beach, a favorite nesting site for sea turtles. Española: The exclusive home to waved albatross (seasonal) and particularly colorful marine iguanas, Española is also a paradise for Darwin’s finches, sea lions galore, and the famous blue-footed boobies. Snorkel and stroll along the island’s lovely beaches.

DAY 9 | GUAYAQUIL | 1 NIGHT

Return this morning to Guayaquil, where we transfer to our hotel. The late afternoon and evening are free to explore the city. Overnight Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil

DAY 10 | END OF ITINERARY

This morning fly home.

NEED TO KNOW

7 nights / 8 days

7 nights / 8 days

From AUD $9,270 per person Twin Share

From AUD $9,270 per person Twin Share

START: Guayaquil, Ecuador     |     Finish: Guayaquil, Ecuador

Inclusions

  • 2 nights in Guayaquil staying at the Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil – 7 nights aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II
  • Transfers to and from group flights
  • All meals and drinks
  • All excursions
  • Zodiac & kayak explorations
  • Snorkeling, including wetsuits, masks, fins and snorkel
  • The expertise of expedition staff
  • Special access permits, park fees & port taxes

Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights
  • Any taxes and/or visas
  • Insurance
  • Any extra or additional accommodation or arrangements
  • Gratuities and any personal purchases

Expeditions take place all year round.
Guests travelling aboard National Geographic Endeavour II will fly to/from Guayaquil, Ecuador.
96 guests on board
Prices from AUD$9,270 to AUD$21,650
Options to extend to Peru are available.
Solo cabins which are designed and costed for solo travel are available. A ‘willing to share’ programme also operates – please enquire.
Flights and insurance on request.
Terms and conditions apply – please request a copy of our booking form for all details.
Please contact us for full pricing, dates and a detailed itinerary.

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip. The transfers went smoothly, the accommodation was excellent, the drivers were amazing as they manoeuvred through the traffic and every tour guide had a great deal of knowledge and information. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The contrast of poverty and riches of the country was striking, from the beggars in the street and struggles of the poor to the spectacular, impressive sights of the forts and monuments. There were so many highlights. A moment in time that will never happen again.

Jenny Kidd

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

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