Yacht La Pinta
Origin of Species Northeast Cruise
5 Days
Monday to Friday
12 of 15
Galapagos Iconic Species known as the BIG 15
From
USD 6000
per guest
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Explore Galapagos Islands Aboard Yacht La Pinta
- 5 Days from USD 6000 per guest
Join us on the Origin of Species Adventure, inspired by Charles Darwin’s important work. This trip takes you to the remote northeastern Galapagos, where beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife await you.
This area is less visited by travelers, giving you a chance to see the Galapagos in its natural state. As you explore the islands, you’ll experience dramatic volcanic shores and quiet, beautiful beaches. Each location reveals a distinct aspect of this unique ecosystem. You will see how nature adapts and evolves, just like Darwin described. The rugged coastlines are home to marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and many birds, including the majestic albatross. You can also explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling or on a glass-bottom boat. The clear waters reveal a wide variety of marine life.
During this adventure, you will visit Santa Cruz, Baltra, Chinese Hat Islet, Bartolomé, Santiago, and Genovesa. Each destination offers its own unique highlights, from striking volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches to remarkable wildlife encounters. Together, these islands provide an unforgettable close-up view of the Galapagos’ natural wonders and the ecosystems that inspired Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.
- Baltra
- Santa Cruz
- Eden Islet
- Chinese Hat Islet
- Bartolome
- Santiago
- Genovesa
Day by Day
Day 1 - Santa Cruz & Baltra Islands
Baltra Island Airport
- Upon arriving at Baltra Airport
- We proceed to the Itabaca Channel
- A short ferry takes us to the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island
- Embarking on a bus journey to the highlands
- We delve into the intricacies of Santa Cruz’s unique ecosystems and rich biodiversity
- Enjoying a delightful lunch at a local restaurant
Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)
- Bus journey into the Santa Cruz highlands — the ecological heart of the archipelago’s central island.
- Walk among Galapagos giant tortoises moving freely through open pasture: animals that have outlasted every human civilization that has tried to describe them.
- Enter lava tunnels carved by volcanic flows thousands of years ago — a reminder that these islands are still being shaped.
- Continue by bus to Puerto Ayora
- Welcome to Yacht La Pinta — your 5-day expedition officially underway.
Wildlife: Galapagos Giant Tortoise · Darwin’s Finches · Galapagos Rail · Small Ground Finch
Day 2 - Santa Cruz & Chinese Hat Islet
Eden Islet (Santa Cruz Island)
- Panga ride to Eden Islet, near Santa Cruz
- Spot blue-footed boobies, reef sharks, and frigate birds
- Snorkel or take the glass-bottom boat through lava formations and coral gardens (weather permitting)
- Your naturalist explains the volcanic architecture — cinder cones, tuff cones, lava flows — that forms the backbone of every island you will visit.
Chinese Hat Islet
- Visit Chinese Hat Islet, named for its hat-like shape
- Explore a 400-meter trail from a white sandy beach
- Swim or snorkel with reef sharks and Galapagos penguins
- Learn about the evolution of Galapagos penguins from Humboldt penguins
Wildlife: Galapagos Penguin · Blue-footed Booby · Reef Shark · Galapagos Sea Lion · Marine Iguana · Magnificent Frigatebird
Day 3 - Bartolome & Santiago Islands
Bartolome Island
Hike up Bartolome Island’s staircase for stunning summit views
Dinghy ride around iconic Pinnacle Rock
Snorkel and relax on the beach
Spot Galapagos penguins and marine life
Optional glass-bottom boat ride for underwater views
Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)
- Afternoon at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island — one of the most otherworldly landscapes in the archipelago.
- Swim and snorkel at a white coral sand beach
- Walk across a young lava field (under 130 years old)
- Experience volcanic landscapes and local wildlife
Wildlife: Galapagos Penguin · Green Sea Turtle · Galapagos Sea Lion · Marine Iguana · Brown Pelican · Whimbrel
Day 4 - Genovesa Island
Prince Philip's Steps
Cross the Equator en route to Prince Philip’s Steps
Climb the wooden staircase to a scenic birdwatching trail
Spot Nazca and red-footed boobies, frigate birds, and short-eared owls
Observe fur seals along the cliffs
Optional kayaking for a peaceful exploration
Darwin Bay
- Relax on a white coral beach with aquatic activities
- Leisurely walk to observe marine and land birds
- Optional trek over lava terrain for panoramic views
- View the collapsed caldera from the anchorage
Wildlife: Red-Footed Booby · Nazca Booby · Short-eared Owl · Galapagos Fur Seal · Great Frigatebird · Storm-petrel · Hammerhead Shark
Itinerary Map
Santa Cruz & Baltra Islands
Santa Cruz & Sombrero Chino Island
Bartolome & Santiago Islands
Genovesa Island
Baltra Island
Prices
Prices in 2026
Starting at USD 6000 per guest
Prices in 2027
Starting at USD 6150 per guest
Sailing Dates
Please select the year first, then click on the date that suits you best.
The Big 15 Iconic Species of the Galapagos
Choosing where to visit and what to see in the expansive Galapagos Islands can be challenging. To create the most fulfilling itineraries for our guests, we consulted researchers, Naturalist Guides, and island aficionados to identify the archipelago’s most unique and fascinating animals. Their expertise inspired our Galapagos BIG15, showcasing the most iconic wildlife you won’t want to miss.
Why Book With Us
Unmatched Experiences & Expert Care
Choose expedition vessels for an authentic and intimate experience.
Consider the comfort level with the ideal space-to-guest ratio during your journey.
All our itineraries allow you to discover 11 to 12 of the Big 15 iconic species and the top 4 islands in just 5 to 7 days.
Take part in the multi-guided itineraries for a unique experience of the Galapagos Islands.
Our carefully designed itineraries guarantee exclusivity and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities during island visits.
Enjoy multiple activities around the islands at no extra cost during your Galapagos expedition.
Rest assured, our Galapagos cruise ships have onboard medical professionals to attend to any medical needs.
Ensure the Galapagos National Park authorizes your cruise for activities and island visits.
Gallery
Included
- Shared transfers between select Quito hotels and the airport for Galapagos flights
- 24/7 On-board Medical Officer
- Accomodation and all meals on board
- Informative lectures
- Luggage assistance
- Starlink Wi-Fi
- Soft drinks
- Snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and a glass-bottom boat
- Wetsuits
- Island expeditions with Park-certified Naturalist Guides
Reminder: We can assist with tickets and fees for entry to Galapagos.
Not Included
- International airfare
- Galapagos National Park fee (USD 200)
- INGALA migration card (USD 20)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses, gratuities & taxes
- Fuel surcharges*
- Non-alcoholic beverages are included on board only.
- Fees and surcharges are subject to change without prior notice.
