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Coral I & II

Gorgeous, comfortable sister yachts with Jacuzzis, a cozy atmosphere and charming social areas.

Overview

The Coral I and the Coral II are a unique combination of two expedition yachts that cruise together through the Galapagos Islands. Though the ships are sisters and not twins, the 131-foot, 18-cabin Coral I and the 113-foot, 11-cabin Coral II are equally elegant and offer near-identical facilities. A delightful surprise awaits you in Galapagos when you find out which ship is destined to be your home during your dream vacation.

Once aboard, indulge in the one-of-a-kind experience that only a pair of vessels can provide. You will have all the personalized service of a small, boutique ship while also meeting a larger group of like-minded travelers during excursions.

Life Aboard The Coral I & II

As one of 36 guests on the Coral I or 20 on the Coral II, you will be welcomed aboard with a cocktail courtesy of the Captain. Such a warm greeting is sure to set the tone for the days ahead. Before you set sail, head to the Dolphin Observation Deck to catch your first glimpses of sea life as you start your adventure. Go to your comfortable, well-appointed stateroom to change into your swimwear before hopping into the Jacuzzi on the Earth Deck.

It’s the perfect way to unwind, beverage in hand, while watching as the boat approaches your first stop. There are plenty of spots to relax and explore back inside, including a lounge, library, and boutique. In the dining room, you’ll enjoy international and Ecuadorian cuisine created by the ship’s chef.

But, your favorite meal will likely be the BBQ served on the Moon Deck. Served at sunset with the Enchanted Islands as a backdrop, this casual meal will be a highlight of your Coral I and II Galapagos cruise. When you return to your stateroom, you will be delighted to find it tidied again, after thrice daily housekeeping service.

Excursions From Your Coral I And Coral II Galapagos Cruise

Select from four separate itineraries, two of which feature four-day routes and the others 5-day schedules. Each itinerary offers unique excursions and exploration opportunities, but they will all give you a front-row seat to some of the most exciting wildlife this planet has to offer. During a four-day cruise of the eastern islands, walk across layers of lava on North Seymour Island to see colonies of blue-footed boobies.

The four-day cruise along the north-central islands takes you to Rabida Island’s red-sand beaches, where you will see colonies of sea lions. Cruise the western islands on a five-day trip visit to see the principal nesting spot of sea turtles in the Galapagos on Santa Cruz Island. Opt for the five-day trip around the southern islands, and you will be treated to a hike near a mangrove forest to a black lagoon of flamingoes.

Add Scuba Diving To Your Adventure

Diving in the Galapagos Islands is a bucket-list item for most scuba enthusiasts. The exclusive two-boat cruising system of the Coral I and II allows you to add some time under the sea to your itinerary. Just swap a scheduled excursion for a scuba diving outing, and you will have the chance to swim in the realm of hammerheads, whale sharks, and turtles.

The Galapagos Islands are a magnet for animal lovers, and a cruise aboard the Coral I and II is a comfortable, stylish way to make the most of your time in the region.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 8
4-Day A
4-Day C
5-Day B
5-Day D
8-Day A+B
8-Day B+C
8-Day C+D
8-Day D+A

4 Day - North Central Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Upon arrival in Baltra, after a 2 ½-hour flight from the mainland, you will be picked up at the airport by your naturalist guides and will be transferred to the ship to have a nice lunch on board. Free time to freshen up and get ready for your first excursion in the archipielago.

PM: After lunch, visit Punta Carrion. Dinghy ride at the entry of the Itabaca Channel in a lagoon with turquoise water, where

we can observe sharks, blue-footed boobies, and different kinds of fish.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'A' Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Baltra - Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 4

Darwin Bay & Genovesa Island

AM: Be marveled at the variety of sea life that uses the crevices of the lava cliffs for shelter. Red-billed Tropicbirds fly overhead, switching between their nests and the bay, and a small colony of fur seals may be found near the landing site. You will be dropped off at a steep stairway that begins on rocks at the foot of a path that leads through a seabird colony full of Nazca and Red-footed Boobies. At the plateau, the trail continues inland allowing you to see more nesting booby colonies in the thin Palo Santo forest. Near the end of the trail, over a rocky lava plain, Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrels can be observed flying in all directions. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a Short-eared Owl.

PM: Disembark onto a small sand and coral beach. A short trail heads west along a tidal lagoon and then up a rocky hill that leads to a point overlooking the cliffs and Darwin Bay. Along the trail near the tidal lagoon, visitors will see pairs of Swallow-tailed Gulls, Lava Gulls, Yellow-crowned, and Lava Herons. The trail continues through Palo Santo trees, Opuntia cacti, and Saltbushes inhabited by Great Frigate birds and Red-footed Boobies. This is one of the few places on the islands where visitors are guaranteed to see Red-footed Boobies. It is estimated that more than 200,000 Red-footed Boobies live in the trees and bushes of Genovesa.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'A' Itinerary Day Two - Flamingo Sighting.
Location
Santa Cruz - Genovesa
Day
2 / 4

Rabida Island Snorkeling & Pinnacle Rock

AM: Dark-red sand covers the unique beaches of this island, home of sea lions colonies; Rabida is considered the epicenter of the Galapagos Islands due to the diversity of its volcanic geology. Nesting brown pelicans are found from July through September plus nine species of the famous Darwin’s finches. Here a dinghy ride along marine cliffs is done, to observe nesting seabirds. Snorkel off the coast, where marine life is particularly active.

PM: At the center of the archipelago, Bartolome (Bartolom) is one of the most frequently visited sites of all the islands. The highest point is only 374 feet (114 m) above sea level and it has a surface area of 0.74 mi (1.2 km). The island is separated from the island of Santiago by the Sullivan Bay. It is an excellent site for snorkeling, filled with the breathtaking volcanic landscapes that make this corner of the world so unique. The first landing possibility is by a dock, made out of lava and concrete, which soon turns into a wooden staircase built to avoid erosion and consists of 372 steps. It leads to the island’s summit, where you will find what probably constitutes the most photographed site in the Galapagos: the Pinnacle Rock. Due to its altitude, the lack of vegetation is immediately noticeable. Pioneer plants can be observed, which are called this way because they are the first to establish roots on new ground. They include Tiquilia nesiotica (which is endemic to the island) and Chamaesyce (known as sand mat or spurge in English), lava cactus, and Scalesia bushes. Behind the beach, there are dunes covered by mangroves. The second type of landing possibility is at coralline beach next to Pinnacle Rock which is a wet landing site. From this point, you will be able to snorkel among tropical fish, perhaps sea lions and penguins as they rest on the lava floors of the intertidal zone and sometimes decide to take a dip.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'A' Itinerary Day Three - Rabida Island.
Location
Rabida - Bartolome
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: On the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, accessible only by sea, four species of mangrove crowd and form an internal lagoon, turtles visit the calm waters, peaking their heads above the surface while fish, and rays circle below. White-tipped reef sharks can be seen beneath the boat, plus sea birds, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. This cove has been declared a “turtle sanctuary”.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'A' Itinerary Day Four - White-Tipped Reef Sharks.
Location
Santa Cruz - Baltra
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

4 Day - Eastern Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Departure from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra Island (2 ½-hour flight). Arriving in the Galapagos, passengers are picked up at the airport by our natural guides and taken to a ten-minute bus drive to the pier to board the M/Y Coral I or M/Y Coral II.

PM: This is perhaps one of the busiest tourist destinations on the archipelago. Off of Baltra Island (where the airport is located) and not far from Santa Cruz, North Seymour is the most accessible for day trips out of Santa Cruz’s main port, Puerto Ayora.

An approximately two-hour walk amidst large nesting colonies of blue-footed boobies*, magnificent and great frigatebirds,* and swallow-tailed gulls for an in depth encounter with sea bird breeding cycles and as well as sea lions. You will also encounter sea lions, land iguanas, and on a lucky day, you might even come across a Galapagos Snake.

Coral I & II - Eastern Islands
Location
Baltra - North Seymour
Day
1 / 4

Mosquera Islet & North Seymour Island

AM: We visit the Charles Darwin Station and Fausto Llerena Breeding Center where the Galapagos giant tortoise breeding program takes place as part of our efforts to preserve the fragile Galapagos environment and where the famous Lonesome George (the last surviving specimen of his species) lived for decades. Here you will be able to see tortoises through all their stages including hatchings, juveniles, and full-grown individuals. The breeding project began in the 1970s and has been an incredible success in helping repopulate the Galapagos Giant Tortoise population. Out of the eleven species that were once considered to be endangered species 10 subspecies of Galapagos Tortoise have been brought up to guarded levels. The most successful story is one of the Española Tortoises. When the program began, it consisted of a total population of 3 males and 11 females. As of 2008, these 13 tortoises are the parents of over 1000 young tortoises that now roam free on Espa ola. The Darwin Station also works to provide environmental education to communities and schools within the islands and tourists visiting the Galapagos Islands.

PM: Mosquera Islet is a tectonic uplift of sands, coral reefs, and rocks, located between North Seymour and Baltra Islands. This flat 0.022 mi (0.06 km ) white-sand island has one of the largest colonies of sea lions. Because of this, there are occasional reports of killer whales seen around this islet. It is also an excellent site for observing shorebirds such as herons and Lava Gulls. You can also spot marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sally lightfoot crabs. There is no trail on Mosquera Island, so any visitor can enjoy an open area. Most of the islet is covered with sand and barren lava rock. Very little sesuvium portulacastrum grows on the sand. It is a fun snorkeling site, just swimming off of the beach. There’s a good chance snorkelers will be joined by one or several of the numerous sea lions who live on this Island, especially the playful young ones. An easily accessed scuba diving site, Mosquera’s maximum depth for this dive site is 30 m and currents are generally mild. This site is famous for the sea lions that come and play during the dive. Sharks, turtles, rays, barracuda, and tropical fish are common in this area.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'C' Itinerary Day Two - Sea Lion Swimming.
Location
Santa Cruz - Mosquera Islet
Day
2 / 4

Santa Fe & South Plaza Islet

AM: Santa Fe shows white sand beaches surrounded by sea lion colonies; through the island path, an endemic cactus forest is passed, home the Santa Fe land iguanas (the largest in the islands). This island is the habitat for a number of species, including the Galapagos hawk, Galapagos snakes, rice rats (one of the few endemic Galapagos rodents), a variety of finches and one of the four mockingbird species of the archipelago.

PM: There are two Plaza Islets (north and south) located east of Santa Cruz Island. On the northern part of the Islet, visitors begin the journey along an impressive cactus forest were colorful yellow and red land iguanas live, the population number is around 300 animals; during the dry season they survive on fruits and flowers of the opuntia cacti. A peculiar thing to see in South Plaza is the hybrid iguana (sea and land). When reaching the highest point, tropicbirds can be seen. During the dry season (June – January) the usually greenish and yellowish vegetation change of color creating a bright red landscape (sesuviumedmonstonei plant).

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'C' Itinerary Day Three - Santa Fe.
Location
Santa Fe - South Plaza
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: Isla Lobos is approximately 20 minutes by boat from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The length of the trail is 850 meters, and the estimated travel time is one hour. There is a small population of blue-footed boobies and common frigatebirds nest at this site. You can see the two species of sea lions present in the Archipelago. During the boat ride, you can see brown pelicans and several species of shorebirds.

Coral I & II’s 4-Day Cruise 'C' Itinerary Day Four - Nazca Booby Sighting.
Location
Lobos Island - San Cristobal
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Western Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Arriving in Galapagos, passengers are picked up at the airport by our natural guides and taken to the pier to board the M/Y Coral I or M/Y Coral II.

PM: In the mountains of Galapagos is possible to admire different kinds of birds, such as tree and ground finches, vermillion flycatchers, paint-billed crakes, yellow warblers, and cattle egrets (usually standing on the tortoises’ shell). The journey to the reserve offers great opportunities to see the contrasts that the island offers about a variety of ecosystems. The road goes from the coast through the agricultural zone and straight up to the dense humid forests. Often, Galapagos Giant Tortoises are also seen on the way, wandering through pastures in the paddocks. This spot is a birdwatchers’ haven since almost every land bird present on the island lives or migrates here.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'B' Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Baltra - Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 5

Vicente Roca Point & Espinosa Point

AM: Vicente Roca Point is a promontory created to form the remains of a tuff cone, with two protected turquoise coves on either side, one of them, the Bolivar Channel (one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth). This place is only accessible by water, with great opportunities for deep-water snorkeling. In this part of the Galapagos, the upwelling of cold water currents from the West, offer an abundant plankton supply for marine species like red-lipped batfish, seahorses, frogfish, nudibranchs, octopus, and the mola mola (sunfish). It is common to observe dolphin pods, sea lions rafts, and tuna banks feeding. The sheer cliffs provide the perfect setting for dinghy rides along the coast, observing a great diversity of sea birds. Noddies, brown pelicans, Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, Nazca, and Blue-footed boobies are often seen feeding all at once in these waters. During the cold season (May – December). Whale watching is common while navigating.

PM: From Espinosa Point, it is possible to admire a wide view of Isabela Island across the Bolivar Channel. This area boasts some of the highest diversity of endemic sea fauna in the Galapagos. Here the largest, most primitive-looking marine iguanas are found mingling with sea lions and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. Fernandina displays a wonderful opportunity to encounter flightless cormorants at their nesting sites, Galapagos penguins, and the “King” of predators on the islands, the Galapagos hawk. Pa-hoe-hoe and AA lava formations cover the majority of Fernandina terrain. Vegetation is scarce inland, with few brachycereus cacti and mangroves around this area.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'B' Itinerary Day Two - Exploring Isabela Island.
Location
Isabela
Day
2 / 5

Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove

AM: Wet landing on a volcanic “black” beach. Depending on the season, we may find giant tortoises, land iguanas, and the unusual Flightless Cormorant. After a short walk inland, snorkeling time is allotted, giving you yet another chance to swim with sea turtles, sea lions, and countless tropical fish. Urbina Bay features a wide variety of plant life that changes depending on the season. We can observe the beautiful colors of plants that attract different insects, birds, and reptiles. We will explore the uplifted coral reef that resulted from 1954 volcanic activity, with a spectacular view of the Alcedo Volcano.

PM: Dry landing on the Galapagos’ largest island where we will learn about the eruption of the five volcanoes that form it. The trail leads to Darwin’s salt-water crater Lake and excellent views of lava fields and volcanic formations. We will return by the same path for a dinghy ride along a shoreline full of marine wildlife, where we will admire a variety of seabirds: Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Noddies, terns, Flightless Cormorants, and depending on the season, a large number of Galapagos Penguins. The only penguin species in the world to extend its range into the northern hemisphere along the equator. They are monogamous and lay their eggs in small cracks of lava, on the lower parts of the island near the shoreline not reached by the ocean waves. The population of penguins on the islands is about 2,000 individuals, most of which live on this western portion of Isabela; others are situated further south on the island. We will have an opportunity to snorkel in deep water. Graffiti believed to have been left by 19th-century pirates is a curious reminder of an intriguing past.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'B' Itinerary Day Three - Flightless Cormorant Cuddle.
Location
Isabela
Day
3 / 5

Salt Mines, Egas Port & Sullivan Bay

AM: On a black volcanic sand beach, the remains of salt mines still can be seen. This is a historically important site; in 1683 the British buccaneer William Ambrose Cowley named the bay as James. Since then, this location became an anchor base to recollect water, tortoises, and salt from the salt-lake that locates in a closer crater. Charles Darwin visited this place in 1835. The first part of the trail is comprised of volcanic ash and the other half is comprised of basaltic rock, creating the best tidal pool area in the Galapagos. Here the fur seal and sally lightfoot crabs populations are big. The unique, truly striking layered terrain of Santiago’s shores is home to a variety of resident and migrant birds, including the Galapagos hawk and the bizarre yellow-crowned night heron. Snorkeling in this place is a highlight; is frequent to see lobsters, starfish, octopus, squids, and marine iguanas on algae beds. Santiago is one of the few places where fur seals “actually a kind of sea lion” and Galapagos sea lions can be found.

PM: This site, located at the Southeastern portion of Santiago Island, is of important geologic interest. It features extensive relative young pahoehoe lava flows formed during the last quarter of the 19th century. In the middle of the lava flow, older reddish-yellow-colored tuff cones appear. Mollugo plants with their yellow-to-orange whorled leaves usually grow out of the fissures. Tree molds are found, indicating that in that position large size plants grew in small crevices, until the lava flow of past eruptions burned down the flora of the island.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'B' Itinerary Day Four - Exploring Santiago Island.
Location
Santiago
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: On the north side of Santa Cruz, behind the beach, lies two small flamingo ponds where iguanas sunbathe, see coastal birds, Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and gulls, as well as interesting native vegetation like red and black mangrove, salt bushes. This beach is one of the main sea turtles' nesting sites in the Galapagos. A turtle can lay eggs 3 or 4 times per season with an average of 70 eggs each time. At this paradisiacal site, we also find the remains of barges that sank a long time ago. Local people modified the word barges to “Bachas”.

After the morning excursion, you will be assisted to Baltra airport for your flight to the mainland.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'B' Itinerary Day Five - Santa Cruz Island.
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

5 Day - Southern Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Passengers are picked up at the airport by our naturalist guides and taken to the pier to board the Coral I or Coral II Galapagos cruise.

PM: Dry landing in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of the Galapagos Islands. Passengers visit the Interpretation Center, an excellent place to learn about the islands’ history. The Museum of Natural History displays information about the volcanic origins of the islands, their remoteness from the continent, ocean currents, climate, and the arrival of the different species. Human history is also showcased, narrating the most significant events related to the discovery and the island’s colonization.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'D' Itinerary Day One - Exploring San Cristobal Island.
Location
San Cristobal
Day
1 / 5

Cerro Brujo & Pitt Point

AM: Cerro Brujo is an eroding tuff cone that is composed of lava formations. It is close to a beautiful white sand beach which is great for snorkeling and sunbathing. Nearby a lagoon ideal for migratory bird species can be seen, including black-necked stilts, ruddy turnstones, whimbrels, sandpiper, and white-cheeked Pintails. Cerro Brujo offers beautiful views of Kicker Rock, an islet in the adjacent southern coast of San Cristobal Island.

PM: The trail goes through several magnificent viewpoints, including an olivine beach and a path climbing to the top of volcanic tuff. This is the only site where the three booby species of the Galapagos can be seen together: Nazca, blue-footed, and red-footed. This is an excellent place for dinghy rides and snorkeling, where a good range of sea birds can be observed.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'D' Itinerary Day Two - Red-Footed Booby Sighting.
Location
San Cristobal
Day
2 / 5

Suarez Point, Gardner Bay & Osborne/Gardner Islets

AM: An island of geological interest, being one of the oldest in the Galapagos, it has a high percentage of endemism due to its isolation from the rest of the islands. Due to the great variety of wildlife, this is one of the most attractive spots in the Galapagos. Here is possible to explore volcanic formations and see large colonies of sea lion and seabirds including the Española mockingbird, Nazca boobies, and the spectacular red-billed tropicbirds. Here the singular marine iguanas have a turquoise color with reddish parts during the breeding season, lava lizards, and the colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs. A somewhat lengthy hike brings visitors to nesting grounds that sometimes overlap the trail. Other birdwatchers favorites include Galapagos dove, Galapagos hawk, swallow-tailed gulls, and the world’s largest colony of waved albatross, an unequivocal highlight during mating season (April-December). Admire the island’s dramatic backdrop, featuring the famous “Soplador”, a seaward blowhole that shoots water up to 23 m. into the air.

PM: Gardner Bay is a beautiful white coral sand beach guarded by a colony of sea Lions. Here there are no trails, so visitors stay along the shore, spotting Galapagos hawks, American oystercatchers, Galapagos doves, hood mockingbirds, yellow warblers, lava lizards, marine iguanas, and finches. Swimming and snorkeling offer a great variety of Galapagos marine wildlife: king angelfish, creole fish, damselfish, and parrotfish.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'D' Itinerary Day Three - Espanola Island.
Location
Española
Day
3 / 5

Champion/Cormorant Point & Post Office Bay

AM: Champion is a small islet located just offshore Floreana Island, dinghy rides and snorkeling here is done along a nice marine wall, filled with a variety of wildlife, like schools the blue Lobster, long nose hawkfish, sea horses, coral hawkfish, sea lions, and the famous red-lipped batfish. Cormorant Point's first impression is of an olivine green sand beach. From here, a hike next to black mangroves takes to a brackish lagoon, which usually holds one of the largest flamingo populations in the Galapagos. This island features some endemic plants such as the Scalesiavillosa, white mangrove, and palo santo trees. The trail continues to a beautiful white-sand beach, one of the most important nesting sites of green Pacific sea turtles. It is important to avoid walking in the water due to the stingrays that may be hiding in the sand. From the beach is easy to spot sea turtles, blue-footed boobies plunging into the water, and small reef sharks searching for food along the shoreline. A small colony of Galapagos penguins resides on Floreana and can sometimes be spotted as well.

PM: On the north side of Floreana, locates Post Office Bay, named like this because, in 1793, Captain James Colnett installed a wooden barrel, which served as an informal post office for sailors passing through, who would take the letters with them to their destinations. Nowadays, our visitors continue this tradition by placing unstamped postcards inside the barrel, on the promise that other tourists will take that mail and send it for free. It can take weeks, months, or even years to arrive!. Here is possible to see Darwin finches, yellow warbler, and lava lizards. Great snorkeling opportunities with Green Pacific sea turtles and on the main beach be around playful sea lions. Moreover, this island is best known for its endemic vegetation: Scalesiavillosa, Lecocarpuspinnatifidus, and Galapagos milkwort.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'D' Itinerary Day Four - Blue-Footed Booby Sighting.
Location
Floreana
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Dry landing. In the mountains of Galapagos is possible to admire different kinds of birds, such as tree and ground finches, vermillion flycatchers, paint-billed crakes, yellow warblers, and cattle egrets (usually standing on the tortoises’ shell). The journey to the reserve offers great opportunities to see the contrasts that the island offers in reference to the variety of ecosystems. The road goes from the coast through the agricultural zone and straight up to the dense humid forests. Often, Galapagos Giant Tortoises are also seen on the way, wandering through pastures in the paddocks. This spot is a birdwatchers’ haven since almost every land bird present on the island lives or migrates here.

After the morning excursion, you will be assisted to Baltra airport for your flight to the mainland.

Coral I & II’s 5-Day Cruise 'D' Itinerary Day Five - Giant Tortoise Photography.
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

8 Day - Central & Western Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Departure from Quito or Guayaquil to Baltra Island (2 ½-hour flight). Arriving in the Galapagos, passengers are picked up at the airport by our natural guides and taken to a ten-minute bus drive to the pier to board the M/Y Coral I or M/Y Coral II.

PM: We visit the Station where the Galapagos giant tortoise breeding program takes place as part of our efforts to preserve the fragile Galapagos environment and where the famous Lonesome George (the last surviving specimen of his species) lived for decades. Admire a prickly-pear cactus forest and variety Darwin’s finches and other land birds. The Darwin Station also works to provide environmental education to the communities, schools, and tourists visiting the Galapagos Islands. You will also have some free time to visit the town and shop for souvenirs.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day One - Embarkation.
Location
Baltra - Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 8

Genovesa Island & Darwin Bay

AM: Be marveled at the variety of sea life that uses the crevices of the lava cliffs for shelter. Red-billed Tropicbirds fly overhead, switching between their nests and the bay, and a small colony of fur seals may be found near the landing site. You will be dropped off at a steep stairway that begins on rocks at the foot of a path that leads through a seabird colony full of Nazca and Red-footed Boobies. At the plateau, the trail continues inland allowing you to see more nesting booby colonies in the thin Palo Santo forest. Near the end of the trail, over a rocky lava plain, Wedge-rumped Storm-Petrels can be observed flying in all directions. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a Short-eared Owl.

PM: Disembark onto a small sand and coral beach. A short trail heads west along a tidal lagoon and then up a rocky hill that leads to a point overlooking the cliffs and Darwin Bay. Along the trail near the tidal lagoon, visitors will see pairs of Swallow-tailed Gulls, Lava Gulls, Yellow-crowned, and Lava Herons. The trail continues through Palo Santo trees, Opuntia cacti, and Saltbushes inhabited by Great Frigate birds and Red-footed Boobies. This is one of the few places on the islands where visitors are guaranteed to see Red-footed Boobies. It is estimated that more than 200,000 Red-footed Boobies live in the trees and bushes of Genovesa.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Two - Flamingo Sighting.
Location
Genovesa - Santa Cruz
Day
2 / 8

Rabida Island Snorkeling & Pinnacle Rock

AM: Dark-red sand covers the unique beaches of this island, home of sea lions colonies; Rabida is considered the epicenter of the Galapagos Islands due to the diversity of its volcanic geology. Nesting brown pelicans are found from July through September plus nine species of the famous Darwin’s finches. Here a dinghy ride along marine cliffs is done, to observe nesting seabirds. Snorkel off the coast, where marine life is particularly active.

PM: At the center of the archipelago, Bartolome (Bartolom) is one of the most frequently visited sites of all the islands. The highest point is only 374 feet (114 m) above sea level and it has a surface area of 0.74 mi (1.2 km). The island is separated from the island of Santiago by the Sullivan Bay. It is an excellent site for snorkeling, filled with the breathtaking volcanic landscapes that make this corner of the world so unique.

The first landing possibility is by a dock, made out of lava and concrete, which soon turns into a wooden staircase built to avoid erosion and consists of 372 steps. It leads to the island’s summit, where you will find what probably constitutes the most photographed site in the Galapagos: the Pinnacle Rock. Due to its altitude, the lack of vegetation is immediately noticeable. Pioneer plants can be observed, which are called this way because they are the first to establish roots on new ground.

They include Tiquilia nesiotica (which is endemic to the island) and Chamaesyce (known as sand mat or spurge in English), lava cactus, and Scalesia bushes. Behind the beach, there are dunes covered by mangroves. The second type of landing possibility is at coralline beach next to Pinnacle Rock which is a wet landing site. From this point, you will be able to snorkel among tropical fish, perhaps sea lions and penguins as they rest on the lava floors of the intertidal zone and sometimes decide to take a dip.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Three - Rabida Island.
Location
Rabida - Bartolome
Day
3 / 8

Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island)

AM: On the north shore of Santa Cruz Island, accessible only by sea, four species of mangrove crowd and form an internal lagoon, turtles visit the calm waters, peaking their heads above the surface while fish, and rays circle below. White-tipped reef sharks can be seen beneath the boat, plus sea birds, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. This cove has been declared a “turtle sanctuary”.

PM: In the mountains of Galapagos is possible to admire different kinds of birds, such as tree and ground finches, vermillion flycatchers, paint crakes, yellow warblers, and cattle egrets (usually standing on the "tortoise" shell). The journey to the reserve offers great opportunities to see the contrasts that the island offers in reference to the variety of ecosystems. The road goes from the coast through the agricultural zone and straight up to the dense humid forests. Often, Galapagos Giant Tortoises are also seen on the way, wandering through pastures in the paddocks. This spot is a bird watcher's haven since almost every land bird present on the island lives or migrates here.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Four - White-Tipped Reef Sharks.
Location
Santa Cruz - Baltra
Day
4 / 8

Vicente Roca Point & Espinosa Point,

AM: Great deep-water snorkeling at one of the richest marine havens on Earth, the Bolivar Channel. Accessible by water, we take a dinghy ride along the coast to observe a great diversity of sea and coastal birds; Nazca and blue-footed boobies, noddies, brown pelicans, penguins, and flightless cormorants. The upwelling of cold water currents in this part of the Galapagos gives rise to an abundance of marine life, a perfect place for deep snorkeling.

PM: From Espinosa Point, it is possible to admire a wide view of Isabela Island across the Bolivar Channel. This area boasts some of the highest diversity of endemic sea fauna in the Galapagos. Here the largest, most primitive-looking marine iguanas are found mingling with sea lions and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. Fernandina displays a wonderful opportunity to encounter flightless cormorants at their nesting sites, Galapagos penguins, and the “King” of predators on the islands, the Galapagos hawk. Pa-hoe-hoe and AA lava formations cover the majority of Fernandina terrain. Vegetation is scarce inland, with few brachycereus cacti. In the shore mangrove can be found.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Five - Exploring Isabela Island.
Location
Isabela
Day
5 / 8

Urbina Bay & Tagus Cove

AM: Wet landing (might be difficult due to the tide). Volcanic black beach, depending on the season, it is possible to find giant tortoises, land iguanas, and the unusual flightless cormorant. After a short walk inland it's snorkeling time, a chance to swim with sea turtles, sea lions, and countless tropical fish. Urbina Bay features a wide variety of plants with a different range of colors in flowers, attracting different insects, birds, and reptiles. One of the highlights of the island is the uplifted coral reed that resulted from the 1954 seismic activity: here the views of Alcedo are remarkable. When navigating from Urbina to Tagus Cove whale watching is usual from May to December.


PM: Dry landing on the Galapagos’ largest island where we will learn about the eruption of the five volcanoes that form it. The trail leads to Darwin’s salt-water crater Lake and excellent views of lava fields and volcanic formations. We will return by the same path for a dinghy ride along a shoreline full of marine wildlife, where we will admire a variety of seabirds: Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Noddies, terns, Flightless Cormorants, and depending on the season, a large number of Galapagos Penguins which are only 35 cm tall; the only penguin species in the world to live in the tropics.

The population of penguins on the islands is about 2,000 individuals, most of which live on this western portion of Isabela; others are situated further south on the island. We will have an opportunity to snorkel in deep water. Graffiti believed to have been left by 19th-century pirates is a curious reminder of an intriguing past.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Six - Flightless Cormorant Cuddle
Location
Isabela
Day
6 / 8

Egas Port & Sullivan Bay

AM: Egas Port is a black volcanic sand beach, visited by Darwin in 1835. The first section of the trail is formed of volcanic ash (eroded tuff) and the other half is an uneven terrain of volcanic basaltic rock. The unique, truly striking layered terrain of Santiago shore is home to a variety of animals including the bizarre yellow-crowned night heron and marine wildlife including lobster, starfish and marine iguanas grazing on algae beds alongside Sally light-foot crabs. It is easy to see colonies of endemic fur seals swimming in cool water volcanic rock pools.

PM: This site, located at the Southeastern portion of Santiago Island, is of important geologic interest. It features extensive relative young pahoehoe lava flows formed during the last quarter of the 19th century. In the middle of the lava flow, older reddish-yellow-colored tuff cones appear. Mollugo plants with their yellow-to-orange whorled leaves usually grow out of the fissures. Tree molds are found, indicating that in that position large size plants grew in small crevices, until the lava flow of past eruptions burned down the flora of the island.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Seven - Exploring Santiago Island.
Location
Santiago
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: On the north side of Santa Cruz, behind the beach, lies two small flamingo ponds where iguanas sunbathe, see coastal birds, Darwin finches, mockingbirds, and gulls, as well as interesting native vegetation like red and black mangrove, salt bushes. This beach is one of the main sea turtles' nesting sites in the Galapagos. A turtle can lay eggs 3 or 4 times per season with an average of 70 eggs each time. At this paradisiacal site, we also find the remains of barges that sank a long time ago. Local people modified the word barges to “Bachas”.

After the morning excursion, you will be assisted to Baltra airport for your flight to the mainland.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'A+B' Itinerary Day Eight - Santa Cruz Island Panga Ride.
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - Western & Eastern Islands

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Arriving in Galapagos, passengers are picked up at the airport by our natural guides and taken to the pier to board the M/Y Coral I or M/Y Coral II.

PM: In the mountains of Galapagos is possible to admire different kinds of birds, such as tree and ground finches, vermillion flycatchers, paint-billed crakes, yellow warblers, and cattle egrets (usually standing on the tortoises’ shell). The journey to the reserve offers great opportunities to see the contrasts that the island offers about a variety of ecosystems. The road goes from the coast through the agricultural zone and straight up to the dense humid forests. Often, Galapagos Giant Tortoises are also seen on the way, wandering through pastures in the paddocks. This spot is a birdwatchers’ haven since almost every land bird present on the island lives or migrates here.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'B+C' Itinerary Day One - Darwin Finch Sighting.
Location
Baltra - Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 8

Vicente Roca Point & Espinosa Point

AM: Great deep-water snorkeling at one of the richest marine havens on Earth, the Bolivar Channel. Accessible by water, we take a dinghy ride along the coast to observe a great diversity of sea and coastal birds; Nazca and blue-footed boobies, noddies, brown pelicans, penguins, flig tless cormorants. The upwelling of cold water currents in this part of the Galapagos gives rise to an abundance of marine-like, a perfect place for deep snorkeling.

PM: From Espinosa Point, it is possible to admire a wide view of Isabela Island across the Bolivar Channel. This area boasts some of the highest diversity of endemic sea fauna in the Galapagos, an area that boasts some of the highest diversity of endemic sea fauna in the Galapagos. Here the largest, most primitive-looking marine iguanas are found mingling with sea lions and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. Fernandina displays a wonderful opportunity to encounter flightless cormorants at their nesting sites, Galapagos penguins, and the “King” of predators on the islands, the Galapagos hawk. Pa-hoe-hoe and AA lava formations cover the majority of Fernandina terrain. Vegetation is scarce inland, with few brachycereus cacti. In the shore mangrove can be found.

Coral I & II’s 8-Day Cruise 'B+C' Itinerary Day Two - Exploring Isabela Island.
Location
Isabela