Galapagos Cruises
Witness evolution in action
As one of the world’s first operators of Galápagos expeditions, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions has been taking curious travellers on once-in-a-lifetime adventures here since 1969. With its almost mythic giant tortoises, endemic marine iguanas and over 150 species of bird, wildlife is one of the most compelling reasons to travel to Galagapos. Here you’ll observe animals and birds that are impossible to see elsewhere, both in carefully maintained environments and beautiful natural habitats. Rest assured, we keep a respectful distance from them, honouring conservation efforts and protecting the area’s biodiversity. It’s all part of our mission to be the world’s most sustainable expedition travel company.
The Galápagos archipelago is extraordinarily varied in terrain, featuring a range of habitats, from arid and dry to lush and green. As a result, bird and animal species have branched off into subspecies in order to adapt to natural conditions. The most well-known of these are the land and marine iguanas, the giant tortoises and the so-called Darwin’s Finches.
It was the Galápagos Giant Tortoise that gave the islands their name, and it continues to enchant nature lovers across the globe. Their leisurely existence – grazing, sunbathing and resting for 16 hours a day – belies a sad history of hunting, deforestation and near extinction. Fortunately, the Charles Darwin Foundation is working hard to protect all 12 species on the islands through research and breeding programmes.
The best way to explore the clear blue waters of Galápagos is to step off Santa Cruz II into one of our small expedition boats. These nimble vessels are designed for cruising around the archipelago without disturbing the wildlife, so they’re perfect for spotting land, shore and sea birds. They also give us access to up to 13 of the islands, so we can see towering cacti in arid landscapes one day, and revel in lush tropical highlands the next.
Galápagos Islands Cruise | Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise (Northern Route)
Experience the natural wonders of the incomparable Galápagos Islands. See the unique wildlife of Galápagos, from giant tortoises and marine iguanas to Nazca Boobies and Darwin’s Finches. Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert Expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides. Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialities and stroll through colourful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day, you’ll visit Quito’s historic centre on a guided tour. Next, you’ll journey to the uniquely inspiring isles of Galápagos and visit the islands of Santiago, Rábida and Bartolomé, Genovesa and Santa Cruz. Here you’ll experience an array of beautiful landscapes harbouring a variety of ecosystems and see iconic wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, Nazca Boobies and Darwin’s Finches. On this active cruise, and with an onboard Expedition Team of local guides, you’ll get closer to the many natural wonders in our small panga boats, kayaks and glass-bottom boat.
| Date | Cruise: | Nights | Explorer Cabins |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Jul, 26 Jul, 09 Aug, 23 Aug 25 *New* | Galápagos Islands Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise (Northern Route) Click here for more details | 5 | Standard $9886 Your Price $4280 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Santa Cruz, Santiago Islands, Buccaneer Cove, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
| 06 Sep, 20 Sep, 4 Oct, 18 Oct, 01 Nov, 15 Nov, 29 Nov, 13 Dec 25, 10 Jan, 24 Jan, 07 Feb, 21 Feb, 07 Mar, 21 Mar 26 *New* | Galápagos Islands Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise (Northern Route) Click here for more details | 5 | Standard $9703 Your Price $4218 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Santa Cruz, Santiago Islands, Buccaneer Cove, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
| 27 Dec 25, *New* | Galápagos Islands Nature and Wildlife Expedition Cruise (Northern Route) Click here for more details | 5 | Standard $11721 Your Price $4508 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Santa Cruz, Santiago Islands, Buccaneer Cove, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
Galápagos Islands – In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route)
Visit the UNESCO-protected Galápagos Islands, discovering their unique wildlife, flora, and fauna. Join us on a journey of ecological discovery as we travel in Charles Darwin’s footsteps, seeing the natural wonders that so inspired him. Explore the islands of San Cristóbal Sante Fe, Santa Cruz, and Española, and spend two nights in Quito, one of South America’s most charming cities. Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialities and stroll through colourful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day, you’ll visit Quito´s historic centre on a guided tour. After exploring Quito´s historic centre and visiting the Equator, we’ll head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable sea adventure. We’ll be on the lookout for iconic animals such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas and Blue-footed Boobies. On this active cruise, and with an onboard Expedition Team of local guides, you’ll get closer to the many natural wonders in our small panga boats, kayaks and glass-bottom boat.
| Date | Cruise: | Nights | Explorer Cabins |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02 Jul, 16 Jul, 30 Jul, 13 Aug, 27 Aug 25 *New* | Galápagos Islands In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 8 | Standard $12888 Your Price $5301 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Cruise Mosquera Islet, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, Cerro Brujo, Santa Fe, South Plaza Island, Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, Espanola, Eden Islet, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
| 10 Sep, 24 Sep, 08 Oct, 22 Oct, 05 Nov, 19 Nov, 03 Dec, 31 Dec 25, 14 Jan, 28 Jan, 11 Feb, 25 Feb, 11 Mar, 25 Mar 26 *New* | Galápagos Islands In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 8 | Standard $12546 Your Price $5185 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Cruise Mosquera Islet, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, Cerro Brujo, Santa Fe, South Plaza Island, Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, Espanola, Eden Islet, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
| 17 Dec 25 *New* | Galápagos Islands In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 8 | Standard $13740 Your Price $5591 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Cruise Mosquera Islet, Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, Cerro Brujo, Santa Fe, South Plaza Island, Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, Espanola, Eden Islet, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery (Western Route)
Experience the incredible natural wonders of the Galápagos Islands. See the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, such as giant tortoises and marine iguanas, as you visit the islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, and Floreana. Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides. Explore the GalápagosIslands by kayak, glass-bottom boat, and stand-up paddleboard, and enjoy nature walks, hikes, snorkeling and swimming. Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialities and stroll through colourful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day, you’ll visit Quito’s historic centre on a guided tour. Your expedition cruise begins after a flight from Quito to Baltra Island in Galápagos. In the Galápagos Islands, you’ll visit the isles of Isabela, Floreana, Fernandina and Santa Cruz islands, each a unique illustration of evolution in action. Experience an array of ecosystems within picturesque landscapes, and see famed wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, Nazca Boobies and Darwin’s iconic finches. Your ship, MS Santa Cruz II, is one of the few vessels operating in Galápagos that comes equipped with a full range of exploration tools, including panga boats, kayaks, snorkelling gear, stand-up paddleboards and even a glass-bottom boat.
| Date | Cruise: | Nights | Explorer Cabins |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08 Jul, 22 Jul, 05 Aug, 19 Aug 25 *New* | Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery (Western Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 6 | Standard $9886 Your Price $4280 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Santa Cruz, Cerro Dragon, Punta Vicente Roca, Isabela Island, Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Research Station, Baroness Cove, Cormorant Point, Baltra Island, Flight to Quito. | ||
| 02 Sep, 16 Sep, 30 Sep, 14 Oct, 28 Oct, 11 Nov, 25 Nov, 09 Dec 25, 06 Jan, 20 Jan, 03 Feb, 17 Feb, 03 Mar, 17 Mar 26 *New* | Galápagos Islands – Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery (Western Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 6 | Standard $9886 Your Price $4218 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Santa Cruz, Cerro Dragon, Punta Vicente Roca, Isabela Island, Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Research Station, Baroness Cove, Cormorant Point, Baltra Island, Flight to Quito. | ||
Galápagos Islands – Nine of the Best Isles (Western and Northern Route)
Visit nine of the most alluring Galápagos Islands. See the unique wildlife of Galápagos, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas as you visit the islands of Baltra, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, Santiago, Rábida, Bartolomé and Genovesa. Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert Expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides. Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialities and stroll through colourful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day, you’ll visit Quito’s historic centre on a guided tour. After your stay in Quito, we’ll head to the Galápagos Islands for an unforgettable sea adventure. This itinerary calls at nine incredible islands – Baltra, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, Santiago, Rábida, Bartolomé and Genovesa. Here, you’ll visit picturesque landscapes showcasing a range of ecosystems and see many of the species which made these islands so famous. On this active cruise, and with an onboard Expedition Team of local guides, you’ll get closer to the many natural wonders in our small panga boats, kayaks and glass-bottom boat.
| Date | Cruise: | Nights | Explorer Cabins |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08 Jul, 22 Jul, 05 Aug, 19 Aug 25 *New* | Galápagos Islands – Nine of the Best Isles (Western and Northern Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 10 | Standard $15787 Your Price $6286 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Sanat Cruz, Cerro Dragon, Punte Vicente Roca, Isabela Island, Fernandina, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Research Centre, Baroness Cove, Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point, Las Bachas Beach, Santiago Island, Buccaneer Cove, Puerto Egas, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, Darwin Bay, Santa Cruz Island, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
| 02 Sep, 16 Sep, 30 Sep, 14 Oct, 28 Oct, 11 Nov, 25 Nov, 09 Dec 25, 06 Jan, 20 Jan, 03 Feb, 17 Feb, 03 Mar, 17 Mar 26 *New* | Galápagos Islands – Nine of the Best Isles (Western and Northern Route) - Quito to Quito Click here for more details | 10 | Standard $15445 Your Price $6170 |
| Itinerary: | 2 Nights accommodation in Quito, Flight to Baltra Island, Sanat Cruz, Cerro Dragon, Punte Vicente Roca, Isabela Island, Fernandina, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Research Centre, Baroness Cove, Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point, Las Bachas Beach, Santiago Island, Buccaneer Cove, Puerto Egas, Rabida Island, Bartolome Island, Genovesa Island, Darwin Bay, Santa Cruz Island, Baltra Island, Flight back to Quito. | ||
What’s included
Expedition Cruise
- A stay in a cabin MS Santa Cruz II
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
- All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
- A complimentary Ocean Bottle water bottle to refill on board and take home
- A wind and waterproof expedition jacket
- Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
- Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
- Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
- Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
- Range of included activities
- Pre Cruise 2 Nights accommodation
Onboard Activities
- In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by our knowledgeable Expedition Team
- Use of our Science Centre, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment
- Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
- Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
- Daily briefing with the Expedition Team about the plans for the next day
Landing Activities
- Escorted landing with small expedition boats
- Loan of boots, trekking poles and other necessary equipment for activities. Your HX travel documents will have a recommended packing list.
- Expedition photographer on hand to assist you
- Gratuities included, Star link Wi-Fi
Bookings can be made inside 150 days of departure.
Eligibility: TIC members in Travel Industry.
Must be travel industry employee and provide proof of employment at time of booking. Business card, letter from employer, staff ID badge etc
One cabin can be booked on interline rates (unless travelling with their children who can book a 2nd cabin at interline rate)
Conditions: Cancellation, amendment fees will apply – Check with us for details.
Prices are based on dynamic pricing and change constantly. Prices are an indication only, subject to availability, eligibility and change without notice.
A non refundable booking fee of $100 per person applies.
Singles are an additional Supplement
