The Elite Galapagos Cruise Tour
The Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its maiden voyage in 2019 and provides unrivaled luxury in the magnificent Galapagos Islands.
The twin-hulled Galapagos Elite catamaran ensures a secure and serene voyage to maximize your comfort. Built for the Galapagos, the design harmoniously blends indoor and outdoor spaces, providing abundant room for each guest.
Crew was professional and personable, interested in our experience and very attentive. Panga drivers were skilled, and watched out for us in and out of boat, good smiles. Food was extraordinary, varied with attention to detail. Bar and food service host was so attentive and lovely. Guide was the best I have had in all my travels. He is clearly educated in multiple areas and could answer all nature questions. His love for nature is obvious. Love his sense of humor and positivity.
- Sharon
For: The Elite Galapagos CruiseThe Elite Galapagos Cruise Accommodation
You can fully relax in our sumptuous Suites before and after your exciting activities. Panoramic windows frame breathtaking ocean vistas and bathe your suite with natural light. Beds can be configured as twin or king-size for personalized comfort.
Savor a culinary odyssey orchestrated by our gastronomic specialists. Delight in three daily meals: buffet-style breakfasts, lavish lunches, and sophisticated al fresco dinners on the sky deck. We cater to special dietary needs and offer delightful kids’ meals. The Elite caters to guests of all ages, with spacious sky decks, al fresco dining areas, and inviting bar-salons. The passenger lounge also boasts 180-degree panoramic vistas.
The Elite Galapagos Cruise Tour Summary
Aboard the Elite, you will enjoy captivating itineraries, exploring the wonders of the Western, Central, and Eastern Galapagos Islands.
Embark on our exclusive itineraries to pristine islands and secluded visitor points abundant with extraordinary animals and scenery. Choose from short or long Elite cruises with daily Galapagos expeditions led by skilled Galapagos National Park guides.
Video Introduction
Tour Info
- Country: Ecuador
- Focus Area: Galapagos National Park
- Duration: 4, 5, 8 days
- Start Point: Baltra Airport (GPS)
- End Point: Baltra Airport (GPS)
The Elite Galapagos Cruise Itinerary
Other itinerary lengths may be available — send a request to check options and pricing.
Day 1
Day 1: Saturday
AM: Arrive at San Cristobal airport where you will be transferred to the vessel.
PM: David Rodriguez Breeding Center
A visit to the David Rodriguez Breeding Center provides information about the origin and evolution of the giant tortoise and explains why the center is so vital in safeguarding the future of these incredible creatures.
Walking through the trails of the reserve, you can see baby tortoises being reared in semi-natural conditions - a brilliant demonstration of the commitment the local people have to preserving the wildlife that makes the Galapagos so special.
Activities and Excursions: Walk
Difficulty: Soft ( -, L, D)
Day 2
Day 2: Sunday
AM: Española - Suarez Point
Suarez Point is packed with wildlife and is best explored by following the circular walking trail. This memorable walk will take you past nesting sites of large colonies of nazca and blue-footed boobies and mockingbirds.
Unique to Española island are also the beautiful waved albatross, that can be seen majestically launching themselves out across the ocean from the cliffs and the red and green marine iguanas.
A geological highlight are several blow holes, capable of shooting water 25m into the air, that make for a spectacular photo.
Activities and Excursions: Walk
Difficulty: Moderate
PM: Gardner Bay, Gardner and Osborn Islets
The pristine white sandy beach of Gardner Bay dotted with sea lions provides a perfect spot to relax and kayaking or paddle boarding is a fantastic way to observe the large number of waved albatross who use this beach as a breeding site.
A short zodiac ride will take you to the Gardner and Osborn Islets, which are superb locations for snorkeling with young sea lions and a variety of colourful tropical fish and corals.
Activities and Excursions: Walk, Snorkeling, Zodiac ride, Kayak/Paddle Boarding
Difficulty: Moderate ( B, L, D)
Day 3
Day 3: Monday
AM: Floreana - Cormorant Point / Devil's Crown
Cormorant Point features two contrasting beaches: one with olive-green sand due to the high content of olivine crystals, and another with pure white sand (commonly known as ‘Flour Beach') derived from pulverized coral.
The saltwater pond is a must-see as it is frequented by one of the archipelago's largest populations of Galapagos flamingos as well as other shorebirds such as stilts, white-cheeked pintails and large-billed flycatchers.
Afterwards, guests will take a zodiac ride to Devil's Crown, an underwater volcanic crater that is almost completely submerged - in fact, just a small portion of the rock formation can be seen from above, and it looks like a crown. Snorkelers will discover a vast underwater world full of coral reefs and a myriad of marine species. Birds are also part of this visitor point due to its location in open waters.
Activities and Excursions: Walk, Snorkeling, zodiac ride
Difficulty: Moderate
PM: Post Office Bay / The Baroness' Lookout
Post Office Bay is a man-made site that offers an insight into a remarkable mailing tradition developed by British whalers in the 18th century, that visitors can still take part in today. The beach here provides for good snorkeling and kayaking and it is also possible to descend into and walk through a lava tube.
Next, take a zodiac ride to the Baroness' Lookout, a volcanic rock formation named after an Australian baroness, who visited the island in the 1930's and is believed to have mysteriously disappeared.
A short trail leads to a brilliant vantage point with panoramic views of the surrounding mangroves and coastline.
Activities and Excursions: Walk, Snorkeling, Zodiac ride, Kayak/Paddle Boarding
Difficulty: Easy ( B, L, D)
Day 4
Day 4: Tuesday
AM: Mosquera Islet
Mosquera islet is a small, flat, sandy islet located between Baltra and North Seymour islands. With no fixed trail, you are free to explore the beautiful surroundings on foot, where you will encounter a large population of sea lions, shorebirds and the striking Sally Lightfoot crabs that cling to the dark rocks.
The numerous coral reefs also make it a fantastic site for snorkeling and catching sight of a range of marine life including sharks, turtles and rays.
Activities and Excursions: Walk, Snorkeling
Difficulty: Moderate
Baltra Airport
Transfer from the yacht to the airport. (B, -, - )
End of cruise
Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to weather conditions, National Park regulations, emergencies on board or any unforeseen situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Galapagos is a year-round destination with two distinct seasons. December to May is the warm season with occasional rain showers and warmer waters (perfect for snorkeling). June to November is the cool season with more marine life activity but choppier seas.
Peak tourist seasons are mid-June through early September and mid-December through mid-January. For the best combination of weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in April/May or November/December.
Note that migration patterns of wildlife and other guest favorites, such as seal pups on the beaches, does change, so please get in touch with the request form and let us know your interests and possible travel dates.
Yes! Children are more than welcome and the Elite can even provide children's meals. The recommended minimum age for children is 6 years old, but please get in touch for more details. The children's rates policy is as follows:
The 25% discount for children applies per child (#1) when traveling with two adults. Children must be under 12 years old when they board the cruise. Not applicable on New Years’ Eve and Christmas departures.
The Elite rate includes your transfers in the Galapagos (airport/catamaran/airport), airport reception and assistance, meals, guided services and accommodation. For other inclusions and information, you can click the rates tab (next tab).
Activities vary from easy to moderate. A typical day includes 1-2 shore excursions with walks on uneven terrain (1-2 hours each), and optional snorkeling. While you don't need to be an athlete, you should be able to walk for 2 hours, climb stairs, and get in/out of small boats (pangas).
If you would like more assistance, please let us know and remember you're free to skip some activities to relax aboard the vessel.
The Elite is one of the most stable vessels on the Galapagos due to to being a modern catamaran specifically designed for the Galapagos. However, note that June to November (the cooler season) are when you find choppier seas. Motion sickness tablets are recommended just in case.
For peak seasons (Christmas/New Year's, July/August), book 9-12 months in advance. For shoulder seasons, 6-9 months is recommended. The Elite is one of the premium vessels and books quickly, so please book as early as you can so you don't miss out.
Pack light, casual clothing: quick-dry shorts/pants, t-shirts, light long-sleeve shirts (sun protection), swimwear, water shoes, hiking shoes, sandals, sun hat, sunglasses, and rain jacket. Don't forget: sunscreen (reef-safe), insect repellent, motion sickness medication, and camera. Evening wear is casual - no formal nights. We can provide detailed packing lists after booking.
While wildlife viewing varies by season and island, you're likely to see: giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and Sally Lightfoot crabs year-round. Penguins are commonly seen in the western islands.Different species of birds breed at different times.
Marine life includes sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Each island offers unique wildlife opportunities, which is why we visit multiple locations. For more information, please get in touch as your choice of itinerary and month of travel will determine specific wildlife chances.
Yes! We also operate La Selva Lodge and Spa. We can help you enjoy a seamless combination experience to enjoy both the Amazon and Galapagos Islands. Send a request with your potential dates to learn more.
Rates & Inclusions
4 days / 3 nights
Golden Suite (Double Occupancy): $4,990
5 days / 4 nights
Golden Suite (Double Occupancy): $6,190
8 days / 7 nights
Golden Suite (Double Occupancy): $9,990
Notes
- Rates per person and based on double occupancy.
- Rates are subject to change in case of additional taxes, fuel price increases or any other unforeseen circumstances.
- Suites have king size beds or two twin size beds.
- Rates per person and based on double occupancy.
- New surcharges will be published in a timely manner.
- High Occupancy Dates: A 10% surcharge applies
- High Occupancy Dates: 100% Single Supplement applies
- Single Suite: 50% single supplement for suites
- Single Suite: 100% supplement applies for a second single suite / stateroom in the same booking
- Single Suite: Not applicable on high occupancy dates
- Children Policy: The 25% discount for children applies per child (#1) when traveling with two adults. Children must be under 12 years old when they board the cruise. Not applicable on New Years’ Eve and Christmas departures.
- Supplied Expedition Gear Sea kayaks, Ocean paddle boards, Wetsuits and fins, Water containers, Masks and snorkels, Expedition Binoculars, Action Cameras,
Included
- Transfers in the Galapagos: airport/catamaran/airport
- Airport reception and assistance
- Double or single accommodations
- Guided expeditions based on itineraries
- Top bilingual National Park guide (English / Spanish)
- Cruise Service Officer
- Daily briefings of activities
- All meals and snacks
- Soft drinks and juices
- Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktails
- Supplied expedition gear
- Use of yoga mats
Not Included
- Round trip to Galapagos
- Galapagos National Park Entrance fee ($100 – subject to change)
- Transit Control Card ($20 – subject to change)
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Gratuities for guide and crew
- Travel and health insurance
- Micro SD Card
Behind the Scenes
About the Official Operator of the Elite Galapagos Cruise
The award-winning operator own and operate a collection of premium experiences in Ecuador, including La Selva Eco-Lodge & Spa and the luxury-class Ocean Spray, Endemic, Elite, and Petrel cruises for the Galapagos Islands. These modern, spacious catamarans are comfortable, steady, and eminently seaworthy, setting a new standard for luxury yachts in the Galapagos.
The team is deeply committed to a sustainable relationship with the natural and social environment. High-quality service, trained and motivated staff, responsible management practices, and strong ties with local communities are at the heart of everything they do.
Operator Details
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