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8-night Galapagos Islands - In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route)

Roundtrip Quito
8-night Galapagos Islands - In Darwin’s Footsteps (Eastern Route)
August 12, 2026
HX: MS Santa Cruz II
Roundtrip Quito
Vacation Offer ID 1625671
Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.
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Exclusive Offer
  • $200 per Couple Shipboard Credit
Overview
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Ship Info
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Activities & Services
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Deckplans
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

Hotel

  • Two nights at a hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on Day 2

Flights

  • Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, including all taxes

Transfers

  • Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Quito before the expedition cruise
  • Note: If your flights have not been booked with us, please provide us with your full flight details no later than 30 days prior to travel (applies to all transfers from the airport to your booked hotel via HX in Quito on the tour start date)
  • Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra

Extras

  • Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee 
  • Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands 
  • Access to the airport lounge at the Quito (or Guayaquil) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation

Expedition Cruise

  • A stay in a cabin of your choice
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Wine, beer, and spirits (excluding premium alcoholic drinks) available from the bar at any time (subject to Ecuadorean licensing laws)
  • All day coffee, tea, and soft drinks
  • A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
  • A backpack or another piece of HX gear
  • Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note that streaming is not supported.
  • Use of 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

Onboard Activities

  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
  • Full access to the ship’s Science Corner
  • The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
  • An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
  • Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

  • Escorted and guided landings with small panga boats
  • Loan of all equipment for activities
  • Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
  • Destination Guide
  • Suggested Shore Excursions
Destination Arrival Departure
Quito

Quito 08/12/2026

Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of QuitoYour journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town, which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colorful plazas, magnificent churches, and stately monuments. Settle into your hotel, then head out to explore.If you have time, we recommend coming a few days earlier and joining one of our optional Pre-Programs.
08/12/2026 08/12/2026
Quito

Quito 08/13/2026

Straddle the Equator in the Middle of the World CityToday, enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s remarkable Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way.Next, you’ll head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, you’ll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
08/13/2026 08/13/2026
Quito

Quito 08/14/2026

Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos IslandsAfter breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you.Get your first glimpse of the islands’ incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We’ll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look.As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.
08/14/2026 08/14/2026
Isla Baltra

Isla Baltra 08/14/2026

Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos IslandsAfter breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you.Get your first glimpse of the islands’ incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We’ll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look.As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.
08/14/2026 08/14/2026
Isla Mosquera

Isla Mosquera 08/14/2026

Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos IslandsAfter breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you.Get your first glimpse of the islands’ incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We’ll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look.As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.
08/14/2026 08/14/2026
Isla Mosquera

Isla Mosquera 08/15/2026

Meet the famous giant tortoisesYour first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It’s also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard.The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat.Up to August 2024 we’ll call at Cerro Brujo, on the island’s west coast. With its white coral beaches, you’ll literally be walking in Darwin’s footsteps as the naturalist visited here in 1835. There are plenty of sea and shore birds to look out for here, as well as sea lions.  After August 2024* we’ll instead likely explore Punta Pitt in our small panga boats. This is the only site in the Galápagos Islands where you might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.    *Note – this is dependent on local authority restrictions.
08/15/2026 08/15/2026
Isla San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno)

Isla San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) 08/15/2026

Meet the famous giant tortoisesYour first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It’s also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard.The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat.Up to August 2024 we’ll call at Cerro Brujo, on the island’s west coast. With its white coral beaches, you’ll literally be walking in Darwin’s footsteps as the naturalist visited here in 1835. There are plenty of sea and shore birds to look out for here, as well as sea lions.  After August 2024* we’ll instead likely explore Punta Pitt in our small panga boats. This is the only site in the Galápagos Islands where you might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.    *Note – this is dependent on local authority restrictions.
08/15/2026 08/15/2026
Punta Pitt

Punta Pitt 08/15/2026

Meet the famous giant tortoisesYour first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It’s also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard.The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat.Up to August 2024 we’ll call at Cerro Brujo, on the island’s west coast. With its white coral beaches, you’ll literally be walking in Darwin’s footsteps as the naturalist visited here in 1835. There are plenty of sea and shore birds to look out for here, as well as sea lions.  After August 2024* we’ll instead likely explore Punta Pitt in our small panga boats. This is the only site in the Galápagos Islands where you might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.    *Note – this is dependent on local authority restrictions.
08/15/2026 08/15/2026
Punta Pitt

Punta Pitt 08/16/2026

Spot wildlife against idyllic backdropsWe start the day with a scenic nature walk on the blissful beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a colony of sea lions.You can swim or snorkel from our small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in our glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below. After a delicious lunch prepared by our onboard chefs, we head to South Plaza Island.Keep an eye out for frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and Galápagos shearwaters gliding on the breeze. Here, among a dazzling array of flora, land iguanas laze by the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water.
08/16/2026 08/16/2026
Isla Santa Fe

Isla Santa Fe 08/16/2026

Spot wildlife against idyllic backdropsWe start the day with a scenic nature walk on the blissful beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a colony of sea lions.You can swim or snorkel from our small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in our glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below. After a delicious lunch prepared by our onboard chefs, we head to South Plaza Island.Keep an eye out for frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and Galápagos shearwaters gliding on the breeze. Here, among a dazzling array of flora, land iguanas laze by the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water.
08/16/2026 08/16/2026
South Plaza

South Plaza 08/16/2026

Spot wildlife against idyllic backdropsWe start the day with a scenic nature walk on the blissful beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a colony of sea lions.You can swim or snorkel from our small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in our glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below. After a delicious lunch prepared by our onboard chefs, we head to South Plaza Island.Keep an eye out for frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and Galápagos shearwaters gliding on the breeze. Here, among a dazzling array of flora, land iguanas laze by the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water.
08/16/2026 08/16/2026
South Plaza

South Plaza 08/17/2026

Learn about local conservation efforts on Santa Cruz IslandToday, we pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.At this giant tortoise breeding center, you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin’s famous finches – the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There’s also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that is home to many land birds.Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools.You’ll also have time for another activity, such as mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.
08/17/2026 08/17/2026
Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora 08/17/2026

Learn about local conservation efforts on Santa Cruz IslandToday, we pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora.At this giant tortoise breeding center, you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin’s famous finches – the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There’s also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that is home to many land birds.Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools.You’ll also have time for another activity, such as mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.
08/17/2026 08/17/2026
Puerto Ayora

Puerto Ayora 08/18/2026

Lava lizards and incredible birdlifeYour Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago’s southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross.This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air.After lunch on board the ship, we’ll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you’re feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.
08/18/2026 08/18/2026
Punta Suarez

Punta Suarez 08/18/2026

Lava lizards and incredible birdlifeYour Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago’s southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross.This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air.After lunch on board the ship, we’ll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you’re feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.
08/18/2026 08/18/2026
Gardner Bay

Gardner Bay 08/18/2026

Lava lizards and incredible birdlifeYour Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago’s southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross.This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air.After lunch on board the ship, we’ll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you’re feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.
08/18/2026 08/18/2026
Eden Islet

Eden Islet 08/19/2026

Green turtles, sharks, and rare bird coloniesThe abundant wildlife-watching opportunities continue at Eden Islet, where we hope to see Galápagos green turtles, rays, and friendly reef sharks. On shore, look for distinctive frigatebirds with their rubbery, red throats.You can swim or snorkel to explore the reefs. You can also see the reefs from our glass-bottomed boat or by kayak. After lunch, we’ll sail to North Seymour.The island is a great site for spotting colonies of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Sea lions and marine iguanas also congregate here, attracted by the bountiful sea life in its waters.
08/19/2026 08/19/2026
North Seymour

North Seymour 08/19/2026

Green turtles, sharks, and rare bird coloniesThe abundant wildlife-watching opportunities continue at Eden Islet, where we hope to see Galápagos green turtles, rays, and friendly reef sharks. On shore, look for distinctive frigatebirds with their rubbery, red throats.You can swim or snorkel to explore the reefs. You can also see the reefs from our glass-bottomed boat or by kayak. After lunch, we’ll sail to North Seymour.The island is a great site for spotting colonies of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Sea lions and marine iguanas also congregate here, attracted by the bountiful sea life in its waters.
08/19/2026 08/19/2026
Isla Baltra

Isla Baltra 08/20/2026

From the Galápagos Islands back to QuitoYour expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. Please contact us at the time of booking to continue on to Quito at the end of your tour. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, we recommend extending your stay and joining one of our optional Post-Programs.As you leave this fascinating region, you’ll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.
08/20/2026 08/20/2026
Quito

Quito 08/20/2026

From the Galápagos Islands back to QuitoYour expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. Please contact us at the time of booking to continue on to Quito at the end of your tour. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, we recommend extending your stay and joining one of our optional Post-Programs.As you leave this fascinating region, you’ll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.
08/20/2026 08/20/2026
HX: MS Santa Cruz II
When you are exploring the Galápagos islands onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home onboard.
Ship Highlights
  • Social Areas located across the the ship, offers a comfortable seating area and an immaculate view of the nearby islands
  • Enjoy delicious food in the nice restaurant and wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences
  • Guests can relish the Galápagos Islands landscapes at the rear terrace, which also doubles as an area
  • Take a tour at Science Corner, a perfect learning zone about science activities
Ship Statistics
Maiden Voyage
2002
Last Refurbished
2021
Gross Tonnage
2,664 T
Beam
44 ft (13.4 m)
Maximum Speed
10.5 knots
Ship Length
236 ft (71.8 m)
Passenger Capacity
90

Dining

Dining
The magnificent and large Beagle Restaurant – a space to pamper your senses and delight your palate with all of the exquisite culinary offerings.

Bar & Lounges

Expedition Lounge
Facing the front of the ship, the Expedition Lounge – complete with a refreshment station and a fantastic place to admire the beauty of the Galápagos’ Islands from inside.
Outdoor Lounge
A comfortable outdoor lounge seating on sun deck with a view.

Onboard Activities

Reception
Located at the main intersection on the ship, the reception is the place where you will find the central bulletin board with daily program and other valuable information on the expedition experience.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor Activities
Sun deck which is located at Sky deck offers spaces where guests can relax and enjoy their Galápagos expeditions basking in the sun at the very top of the ship.

Wellness

Hot Tub
For a nice relaxing time the two hot tubs with capacity for 5 guests each. Located on the Expedition deck are ideal.

Oceanview

Voyager Single Cabin (VH) Call for pricing
Voyager Single Cabin
  • Category: VH
  • Deck 2
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer a single bed and plenty of space for solo travelers. There are 2 Voyager cabins located on the Horizon deck. Bathroom. Size 12 sq.m.
(FH) Call for pricing
  • Category: FH
  • Deck 2
Explorer Cabin (EP) Call for pricing
Explorer Cabin
  • Category: EP
  • Deck 4
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 23 Explorer cabins located on the Horizon deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.
Explorer Cabin (EH) Call for pricing
Explorer Cabin
  • Category: EH
  • Deck 2
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 17 Explorer cabins located on the Expedition deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.
Explorer Cabin (EE) Call for pricing
Explorer Cabin
  • Category: EE
  • Deck 3
With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 3 Explorer cabins located on the Panorama deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.

Suite

(DS) Call for pricing
  • Category: DS
  • Deck 4

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy, valid for North American residents only and are subject to availability and change without notice and voyage only. The ship departure date determines the price of your voyage. Itinerary and port order subject to change.

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance 
  • Luggage handling

Extras 

  • Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
  • Transit Control Card for Galápagos Islands 
  • Access to airport lounge at Guayaquil or Quito airport upon return from Galápagos Islands 
Notes
  • All planned activities are subject to weather and conditions 
  • Excursions and activities are subject to change 
  • Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
  • No gratuities expected onboard 
  • Washers and dryers available onboard for guest use 
  • Please read our health & safety guidelines

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Deck 5

Stateroom Key

  • (DS)
  • Explorer Cabin (EP)
  • Explorer Cabin (EE)
  • (FH)
  • Explorer Cabin (EH)
  • Voyager Single Cabin (VH)
Deck 4

Stateroom Key

  • (DS)
  • Explorer Cabin (EP)
  • Explorer Cabin (EE)
  • (FH)
  • Explorer Cabin (EH)
  • Voyager Single Cabin (VH)
Deck 3

Stateroom Key

  • (DS)
  • Explorer Cabin (EP)
  • Explorer Cabin (EE)
  • (FH)
  • Explorer Cabin (EH)
  • Voyager Single Cabin (VH)
Deck 2

Stateroom Key

  • (DS)
  • Explorer Cabin (EP)
  • Explorer Cabin (EE)
  • (FH)
  • Explorer Cabin (EH)
  • Voyager Single Cabin (VH)
Deck 1

Stateroom Key

  • (DS)
  • Explorer Cabin (EP)
  • Explorer Cabin (EE)
  • (FH)
  • Explorer Cabin (EH)
  • Voyager Single Cabin (VH)
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