$150 Onboard Credit per person*
*Terms and conditions apply
*Terms and conditions apply
*Terms and conditions apply
Follow in Darwin's footsteps on a journey through the UNESCO-protected Galápagos Islands, teeming with iconic wildlife like giant tortoises and Blue-footed Boobies.
Begin with a vibrant South American land adventure, exploring Lima, the Sacred Valley, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Then, embark on an unforgettable sea expedition, guided by HX's expert Expedition Team, to discover the unique flora, fauna, and landscapes of San Cristóbal, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, and Española. With intimate experiences by kayak, glass-bottom boats, and more, this adventure is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.
Highlights of this incredible expedition experience:
*Per person, twin share
INCLUDED WITH THIS CRUISE:
INCLUDED ON BOARD:
Day 1: Discover Vibrant Quito
Your journey begins in Quito, a lively city nestled in the lush Andean foothills. Sitting at 9,350 feet above sea level, Quito is the world’s second-highest capital and boasts a beautifully preserved Old Town, built on ancient Inca foundations.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito’s Old Town is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, featuring colourful plazas, grand churches, and historic monuments. After checking into your hotel, take some time to explore this charming city at your own pace.
Day 2: Step into History in Quito
Straddle the Equator at the Middle of the World
Today, you’ll embark on a guided tour through Quito’s fascinating Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial quarters in South America. Stroll along cobblestone streets, admire magnificent architecture, and sample exquisite Ecuadorian chocolate, made from the world’s finest cacao.
Next, you’ll visit the iconic Middle of the World City, located about 16 miles north of Quito. After a delightful lunch, you’ll arrive at the famous monument that marks the Equator, where you can capture the unique moment of standing with one foot in each hemisphere!
Day 3: Begin Your Galápagos Expedition
Welcome to the Enchanted Islands
After breakfast, take a short flight to Baltra Island, your gateway to the Galápagos archipelago. A quick transfer brings you to the port, where your expedition ship, MS Santa Cruz II, awaits.
Your first wildlife encounter happens on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the *argest sea lion colonies in the Galápagos. You’ll take a small panga boats ashore for an up-close look at this incredible ecosystem.
As you explore the sandy dunes, watch for Blue-footed Boobies, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and other unique species, while your naturalist guides share insights into the region’s diverse marine and terrestrial life.
Day 4: Encounter the Iconic Giant Tortoise
Visit San Cristóbal’s Tortoise Reserve
Start the day at the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding centre dedicated to preserving endangered giant tortoises. Wander through forests designed to mimic their natural habitat, and spot San Cristóbal Mockingbirds and lava lizards along the way.
Visit Punta Pitt, the only site in the Galápagos Islands where you might see all three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, a boat excursion, or go snorkelling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. *(Itinerary subject to local regulations.)*
Day 5: Santa Fe & South Plaza – A Wildlife Haven
Explore stunning landscapes teeming with unique species
Start your morning with a scenic nature walk on the pristine beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a vibrant sea lion colony.
Choose your adventure: snorkel from a panga boat, kayak along the coast, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to observe marine life without getting wet!
After a delicious onboard lunch, head to South Plaza Island, where you’ll see land iguanas basking along the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water. Keep your eyes on the sky for frigate birds, Swallow-tailed Gulls, and Galápagos Shearwaters.
Day 6: Conservation & Culture on Santa Cruz Island
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station
Today, you will visit the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, a breeding centre for giant tortoises. Witness recently hatched tortoises, observe Darwin’s finches, and walk through a unique prickly pear cactus forest that supports a range of land birds.
After lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely, you’ll have time for an optional adventure, such as mountain biking or visiting a traditional sugar plantation.
Day 7: Dramatic Landscapes of Española Island
Witness rare wildlife and stunning scenery
As you arrive at Española, the southernmost Galápagos island, prepare for extraordinary birdwatching. Spot Nazca Boobies, Blue-footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls, and from April to December, witness the majestic Waved Albatross nesting here.
Other highlights include the vibrant red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as El Soplador, a dramatic blowhole that sends water 75 feet into the air.
After lunch, visit Gardner Bay and Osborn Islet, where you can relax on pristine beaches or go snorkelling, kayaking, or simply enjoy the playful sea lions.
Day 8: Marine Marvels at Eden Islet & North Seymour
Discover reef life and rare bird colonies
Start the day exploring Eden Islet, a marine paradise where you might spot Galápagos green turtles, reef sharks, and stingrays.
For a closer look, choose between snorkelling, kayaking, or a glass-bottom boat tour.
After lunch, you’ll head to North Seymour Island, a wildlife hotspot home to Blue-footed Boobies, Swallow-tailed Gulls, sea lions, and marine iguanas. Watch frigate birds puff out their red throat pouches in an attempt to attract mates.
Day 9: Farewell to the Galápagos
Return to Quito or continue your Ecuadorian adventure
Your expedition comes to an end as you disembark at Baltra Island. From here, you’ll take a flight back to Quito to connect with your international flight, or you can choose to continue to Guayaquil for further exploration.
As you leave the Galápagos Islands, you’ll take with you a lifetime of unforgettable memories—of incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences in one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
This modern and spacious ship is designed to ensure a comfortable and immersive cruise experience from start to finish. Savour delicious cuisine in the elegant restaurant, deepen your understanding of the Galápagos Islands in the interactive Science Center, or unwind on the multiple outdoor decks while mingling with fellow travellers.
As you explore the Galápagos, you'll have countless opportunities to actively engage in excursions and wildlife encounters. After a day of following in Darwin’s footsteps, return to the ship’s welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, where exceptional service awaits.
The MS Santa Cruz II is designed for world explorers, offering top-tier amenities while prioritising sustainability. With carbon-neutral operations, it is committed to environmental responsibility and supporting the local community.
Applies to bookings made from 19 December 2024 to 31 March 2025 (inclusive) for selected HX departures from 23 March 2025 and 31 March 2027 (inclusive). Bookings outside of these periods do not qualify. Applies automatically to valid Tour Codes and only to Tour Code components (including voyage and local domestic flights). Offer does not apply to optional excursions, pre/post tours, insurance, additional hotel accommodation, transfers, international arrival and departure flights, arrival and departure packages and group bookings. Applies to new bookings only and will not be applied to any existing or held bookings. Single supplements and other restrictions may apply.
Wish List Onboard Credit Exclusive Offer Terms and Conditions:
Up to 25% off all-inclusive expeditions
Applies to bookings made from 19 December 2024 to 31 March 2025 (inclusive) for selected HX departures from 23 March 2025 and 31 March 2027 (inclusive). Bookings outside of these periods do not qualify.
Applies automatically to valid Tour Codes and only to Tour Code components (including voyage and local domestic flights). Offer does not apply to optional excursions, pre/post tours, insurance, additional hotel accommodation, transfers, international arrival and departure flights, arrival and departure packages and group bookings.
Applies to new bookings only and will not be applied to any existing or held bookings.
Bookings are subject to availability and may be limited, amended or withdrawn at any time without prior notice.
Combinable with the HX Explorers loyalty program.
Price Promise is valid for sailings between 1st April 2025 through 31st March 2027.
Represents a saving on the “From” price quoted in AUD, based per person and on full occupancy of cabin. Single supplements may apply. Other restrictions may apply.
Single supplements and other restrictions may apply.
The following pricing and promotions are excluded from and cannot be combined: Group Pricing, Tour Operator pricing and promotions (where an agent is packaging the HX cruise / components) and third-party Travel Agent brand promotions, special pricing or loyalty schemes.
For Trade partners discount applies to bookings made via the FIT System but excludes group bookings.
Otherwise, payment, cancellation, refund and other terms are as per our Booking Terms & Conditions.