5-Day Origin of Species: Northeastern Galapagos aboard La Pinta

5 day expedition
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    Class of Ship

    Small Expedition Yacht
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    Sustainability

    Low Impact
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    Berths

    48
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    Zodiacs

    3
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of Ship
Small Expedition Yacht
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
Low Impact
/media/dx3mvpdd/bed-icon.png
Berths
48
/media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png
Zodiacs
3

Expedition overview and highlights

  • Experience the ultimate expedition cruise, offering unmatched exploration of the stunning Galapagos Islands.
  • Combine two seamless itineraries for an enhanced adventure, giving you the chance to encounter most of the Big 15 endemic species.
  • Enjoy a deeply personalised journey, guided by expert naturalists.
  • Indulge in the luxury of our all-inclusive expedition, thoughtfully crafted to fulfil your every need.

Embark on an extraordinary voyage with our Origin of Species Adventure, inspired by the groundbreaking work of Charles Darwin. This expedition takes you far, far away, into the uncharted northeastern Galapagos, where pristine landscapes and diverse ecosystems await your discovery!

This region, less frequented by travelers, offers a unique glimpse into the untouched wilds of the archipelago. As you journey through the islands found here, you’ll experience the raw power of volcanic shores and the serene beauty of isolated beaches, each providing a different perspective on this remarkable ecosystem. The region also serves as a testament to nature’s adaptability and the evolutionary processes that captivated Darwin. Here, the rugged coastlines are teeming with marine iguanas, playful sea lions, and a myriad of bird species, including the majestic albatross. The vibrant underwater world, which is visible through snorkeling or glass-bottom boat explorations, reveals an array of marine life in crystal-clear waters.

Throughout this adventure, the islands of North Seymour, Santa Cruz, South Plaza, Santa Fe, San Cristobal, and Genovesa are ready to reveal their unique charms. From the bustling wildlife of Punta Suarez to the tranquil beauty of Gardner Bay, each location offers an immersive experience of the Galapagos’ natural wonders and their role in inspiring Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

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
  • Note: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; bring a small backpack with medications, sunblock, insect repellent, and essentials

Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)​

  • After lunch, bus ride to a giant tortoise reserve
  • Observe tortoises in their natural habitat
  • Explore lava tunnels in the area
  • Continue by bus to Puerto Ayora
  • Board Yacht La Pinta to begin the next journey

Eden Islet (Santa Cruz Island)​

  • Panga ride to Eden Islet, near Santa Cruz
  • Spot blue-footed boobies, reef sharks, and frigate birds
  • Snorkelling and glass-bottom boat (weather permitting)
  • Stunning volcanic scenery: cinder cones, tuff cones, lava flows

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

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 visit to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island

  • 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

Prince Philip's Steps

  • Cross the Equator en route to Prince Philip’s Steps

  • Climb 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

Baltra Island Airport

  • End the journey at Baltra Island

  • Transfer to the airport for return flight

  • Island’s flat terrain made it ideal for airport construction in the 1940s

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Luxury Cabin 

Cabin Luxury Twin Yacht La Pinta Galapagos Islands Ecuador
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
$5,987

An excellent cabin for guests traveling solo or in pairs.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Queen size
Rooms 1 room
Footage 177 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony No
View Ocean
Location Cabin Deck
Suitable for Couples, solo
Accessibility None
Amenities Private bathroom with shower, toiletries (soap/shampoo/conditioner), individually controlled air-conditioning, safe deposit box, hair dryer, closet.
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 Luxury Plus Cabin 

La Pinta Yacht Luxury Plus Cabin 1
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
$5,987

A wonderful option for small families, as these feature a comfortable sofa that can sleep an additional guest.

Capacity Up to 3
Beds Double and one single
Rooms 1 room
Footage 247 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony No
View Ocean
Location Cabin Deck
Suitable for Couples and families
Accessibility None
Amenities Private bathroom with shower, toiletries (soap/shampoo/conditioner), individually controlled air-conditioning, safe deposit box, hair dryer, closet.
More details

Show details

About the Ship

Yacht La Pinta

La Pinta is a stylish expedition yacht designed to offer an intimate and enriching way to explore the Galápagos. With just 48 guests, it combines modern comfort, generous public spaces and an excellent naturalist program to create an experience that feels both immersive and relaxed. Its small size allows for flexible itineraries, close-up wildlife encounters and smooth navigation between the islands.

La Pinta Sun Deck

An in-depth exploration of the Galapagos Islands

On board La Pinta, guests can enjoy a welcoming lounge, an observation deck and a hot tub perfect for unwinding after daily excursions. The yacht carries a fleet of Zodiacs and a glass-bottom boat for immersive exploration. Thoughtful service, well-prepared meals and comfortable social areas create a refined yet casual atmosphere throughout the voyage.

Cabin Luxury Twin

Cabins

Yacht La Pinta’s spotless and modern 24 cabins provide room for up to 48 guests. All of them have their own private bathroom and vertical-rectangle windows. Should folks traveling as part of a family or group wish to have connecting rooms, there are four pairs of cabins with this feature.

La Pinta Restaurant (1)

Dining aboard the Yacht La Pinta combines Ecuadorian and Continental flavours in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. Guests enjoy buffet-style breakfasts and lunches prepared with fresh local ingredients, along with seated, set-menu dinners crafted for a more formal experience. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are available throughout the day, while specialty cocktails can be purchased. Menus are designed by a Cordon Bleu–trained culinary director and highlight gourmet cuisine, with special dietary needs accommodated upon advance request.

La Pinta Yacht Al Fresco Lunch

Al-Fresco

When weather allows, meals may be served al fresco on the sun Deck.

La Pinta Yacht Experience Family Glass Bottom Boat

Connect and engage with the Galapagos in the most fulfilling way possible through our Expedition Cruise's Park-approved selection of exciting activities: hiking, kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboarding, coastal exploration, and glass-bottom boat rides!

La Pinta (1)

Exclusive Sites

Yacht La Pinta has the privilege of having numerous visitor sites in the Galapagos Islands all to itself. No other boats will be in sight when you set foot on many of the islands in the Galapagos. 

Deck Plan Yacht La Pinta Sun Deck

Sun Deck

  • Observation Decks
  • Outside Sky Bar
  • Restrooms
  • Open Decks
  • Natural History Library
  • Fitness Room
  • Hot Tub
  • Observation Lounge & Bar

Deck Plan Yacht La Pinta Cabin Deck

Cabin Deck

  • Luxury Cabins
  • Luxury Plus Cabins

Deck Plan Yacht La Pinta Main Deck

Main Deck

  • Reception Area
  • Gift Shop
  • Disembarkation Gangway
  • Infirmary
  • Restaurant
  • Restrooms
  • Disembarkation/Embarkation Gangway

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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
$5,987
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