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Private Charter

Galaxy Orion

A charming yacht offering exhilarating naturalist expeditions around Galapagos' enchanted isles.

Overview

The M/Y Galaxy Orion, recently renovated, awaits to whisk you away on a choice of exhilarating 4, 5, and 8-day expedition cruises discovering the treasures of the Galapagos’ Enchanted Isles, accompanied by an expert bilingual, Galapagos National Park certified naturalist guide, who will provide captivating insights into the islands’ natural wonders.

Life On Board

Life on board is designed to indulge your senses. The shaded deck is perfect for relaxing between shore excursions or unwinding in the evening, and the charming lounge provides a comfortable space, while the beautiful dining room, with three tables accommodating four guests each, treats you to a gastronomic journey of national and international specialties.

Your exceptional chef, deeply knowledgeable about the magical flavors of Galapagos ingredients, creates exquisite culinary experiences that celebrate the vibrant local cuisine. The bar offers a selection of fine beverages, including local and international wines, ensuring the perfect drink for everyone. Additionally, the al fresco area invites you to connect with the natural surroundings, providing another idyllic space for relaxation and wildlife observation onboard.

The yacht accommodates just 14 guests in eight comfortable cabins spread across three decks. The cabins, available in both matrimonial and twin configurations (with one convertible to a triple), are equipped with private bathrooms, hot/cold water, air conditioning, hair dryers, internal phones, closets, and speakers.

Activities

Inflatable zodiac rides, also known as pangas, provide access to wildlife species in otherwise less accessible areas. These rides also serve as transportation between the yacht and the various landing sites. On shore, hiking is a frequent and rewarding activity upon disembarking, allowing you to engage intimately with the archipelago’s endemic wildlife.

But it’s in the water where the vast majority of the islands’ remarkable species await to bedazzle you. The wide variety of marine life in Galapagos makes it a paradise for snorkeling no matter your experience or age. Kayaking is also available during your voyage aboard the Galaxy Orion, adding an additional element of adventure to your experience.

Smart Planet Certified

Furthermore, the yacht holds the Smart Planet certification, actively promoting eco-friendly practices. By reducing fossil fuel consumption, optimizing energy use, minimizing waste, and selecting products with lower environmental impacts, the yacht invests in advanced technology and methods to reduce its environmental footprint and support the conservation of the Galapagos Islands’ delicate ecosystems.

Additionally, the yacht upholds social responsibility by supporting cultural preservation, providing employment opportunities for locals, and enhancing the living standards of Galapagos Islanders.

Indulge in the allure of the M/Y Galaxy Orion and embark on an extraordinary journey through the enchanting Galapagos Islands, where captivating encounters with nature await at every turn.

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 / 3
4-Day A
5-Day C
8-Day B

4 Day - Short Naturalist Cruise

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Unfurl the sails of adventure and embark on an unforgettable journey to the Galapagos Islands. You'll arrive at San Cristobal Airport, where a seasoned naturalist guide, the custodian of this ecological gem, will greet you. Feel the flutter of anticipation as your exploration of this astonishing world heritage site commences.

PM: Venture to Lobos Island, a tranquil islet secluded from San Cristobal by a slim channel. This nature's cradle, amidst a serene bay, is the playground for sea lion pups frolicking in tidal pools. The island might be modest but bursts with life, particularly with "lobos marinos" or sea lions. As you step ashore, welcoming committees of sea lions would greet you, only to be outraged by the male frigatebirds inland, presenting their inflamed red balloons amidst the verdant foliage. Stay vigilant for the blue-footed boobies nesting on the trails, ready to treat you to a display of their whimsical courtship dance.

Galaxy Diver - Short Naturalist Cruise
Location
San Cristobal
Day
1 / 4

Suarez Point & Gardner Bay

AM: Embrace the morning at Suarez Point. This rocky trail presents a natural gallery of the Galapagos islands, brimming with an awe-inspiring array of fauna. Upon landing, you'll be greeted by sea lions and marine iguanas, your first hosts in this nature carnival. As you venture further, you'll encounter a mosaic of seabird colonies - from the striking Nazca and blue-footed boobies to the elegant gulls and tropicbirds. The pinnacle of this journey brings you face-to-face with the waved albatross, the island's largest bird (present from April to January). This majestic creature, exclusive to Española, will captivate you with its powerful flight and intricate courtship display.

PM: Transition into the afternoon with a thrilling adventure to Gardner Bay, a pristine piece of paradise in the Galapagos archipelago. Sugar-white coral sands merge with crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a tropical oasis. Watch as the beach becomes a theatre, starring sun-basking sea lions in a playful performance. This idyllic setting invites you to stroll along the coast, immersing yourself in an enlightening experience as you delve into the biology of the endemic fauna - from the melodious Española mockingbird and the unique marine iguanas to the regal Galapagos hawks.

Galaxy Diver - Short Naturalist Cruise
Location
Española Island
Day
2 / 4

Post Office Bay & Cormorant Point

AM: Begin your day by stepping into the footprints of the past at Post Office Bay, located on the enigmatic Floreana Island. This locale is imbued with tales from the late 1920s and '30s involving German settlers, a baroness, unsolved mysteries, and captivating intrigue. The bay was a historic anchoring point for whalers, who journeyed to the highlands for freshwater and tortoises. A mail system over two centuries old was established as a hub for visiting vessels centered around a barrel near the beach. This system endures today, offering a unique opportunity to send postcards from this remote part of the world. Apart from its rich history, Post Office Bay presents natural attractions such as a scenic beach, a lava tunnel, and sea tours that can unveil sea lions, green sea turtles, shorebirds, small sharks, and, if luck permits, Galapagos penguins.

PM: Shift your expedition northwards to Cormorant Point, renowned for its expansive coastal lagoon teeming with American flamingos, white-cheeked pintails, black-necked stilts, and other shorebirds. This natural haven also features a pristine white sand beach, a crucial nesting ground for green sea turtles, and a newly established breeding ground for blue-footed boobies near the trail. Amidst this vibrant wildlife, also take the opportunity to admire the island's unique flora.

Galaxy Diver - Short Naturalist Cruise
Location
Floreana Island
Day
3 / 4

Disembarkation

AM: Kickstart your day with a profound encounter at the Charles Darwin Station, a dedicated non-profit working hand-in-hand with the Galapagos National Park to safeguard the archipelago's unique biodiversity. This visit provides insights into the collaborative efforts of these institutions to shield native species and combat the invasive ones threatening the delicate balance of the Galapagos ecosystem. One of their emblematic endeavors includes the captive breeding of giant tortoises, an integral part of the conservation strategy. Amidst the educational venture, enjoy the setting of an outdoor native dry forest adorned with towering cacti and a rich array of fascinating endemic flora. This is an ideal spot to discover various endemic Darwin finches, vivacious flycatchers, and melodious mockingbirds.

This concludes your unforgettable exploration of the Galapagos Islands, a journey filled with natural wonders and wildlife encounters that will leave a lasting impression and a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.

Following your visit to the Charles Darwin Station, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador, concluding your unforgettable Galapagos journey.

Galaxy Diver - Short Naturalist Cruise
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
4 / 4
1 / 4

5 Day - Naturalist Cruise

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Your voyage to the captivating Galapagos Islands commences! Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, you'll be greeted by our National Park-certified naturalist guide, ready to introduce you to the unique wonders of this pristine archipelago.

PM: Bachas, named after the mispronounced "barges" left by the Americans during WWII, begins your final day. At low tide, the iron skeletons of the barges can still be spotted buried in the white sand. This spot is one of the most crucial sea turtle nesting grounds in the Galapagos islands from November to May. Several small saltwater lagoons are often home to flamingoes, herons, and other aquatic birds.

Galaxy Diver - Naturalist Cruise
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 5

Bartolome & Sullivan Bay

AM: Stand atop Bartolome Island for unparalleled views of the lunar-like landscape, punctuated by scattered volcanic cones, Pinnacle Rock, and the bay of Sullivan. Bartolome is a jewel in the Galapagos crown and home to a vibrant population of penguins.

PM: Step back in time at Sullivan Bay, an open book to the volcanic birth of these islands. Traverse the well-preserved Pahoehoe lava field, studying its delicate, unique textures. The seemingly lifeless landscape gradually unveils a resilience of nature, with pioneer plants, lava lizards, and tiny birds emerging on careful observation. Keep your eyes on the shoreline for resident penguins, pelicans, and oystercatchers.

Galaxy Diver - Naturalist Cruise
Location
Bartolome - Santiago
Day
2 / 5

South Plazas & Santa Fe Island

AM: Begin your day with a visit to South Plazas Island, one of the smaller yet vibrant islands in the Galapagos. This island is renowned for its extraordinary flora, including towering cacti and the striking Sesuvium plant, which changes from green to bright red during the dry season. South Plazas is also home to a large colony of land iguanas, which are often seen lounging under the cacti or wandering around. The steep cliffs on the southern part of the island provide a haven for various seabirds, including swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds. Sea lions frequent the coastline and offers an excellent opportunity to observe their playful antics in the water.

PM: In the afternoon, set off to explore Santa Fe Island, known for its picturesque bay and turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The island hosts a healthy population of the larger species of land iguanas unique to Santa Fe. Watch for these magnificent creatures as you walk through the giant prickly pear cactus forest. The island's calm, clear waters are ideal for spotting an array of marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful schools of fish. Santa Fe also offers a chance to see the Galapagos hawk and various endemic finches.

This day offers a blend of terrestrial and marine exploration, showcasing the diverse landscapes and wildlife the Galapagos Islands are famous for.

Galaxy Diver - Naturalist Cruise
Location
Santa Fe Island
Day
3 / 5

Witch Hill & Pitt Point

AM: Start your day at Witch Hill, a breathtaking white sand beach on San Cristobal Island's northern coast. This beach is one of the first sites visited by Charles Darwin. It's an exquisite spot for walking and enjoying the scenery, with its powdery white sand and turquoise waters. The area is home to a large sea lion colony, and the nearby lagoon often hosts several bird species, including pelicans and blue-footed boobies. The clear waters also make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, where you can encounter rich marine life.

PM: In the afternoon, head to Pitt Point, located on the eastern end of San Cristobal Island. This unique site is the only place in the Galapagos where you can see all three species of boobies and two species of frigate birds. The trail here offers a challenging hike up a steep path but rewards with stunning views of the coastline. The beach area is also a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, offering a chance to see various marine life.

Galaxy Diver - Naturalist Cruise
Location
San Cristobal Island
Day
4 / 5

Disembarkation

AM: Your day begins with a journey to the highlands of San Cristobal Island, offering a different perspective of the Galapagos' unique ecosystem. This lush and verdant area contrasts sharply with the coastal zones. The highlands are home to a variety of bird species, giant tortoises in their natural habitat, and a rich array of plant life, including endemic trees and ferns. You'll have the opportunity to walk along paths that meander through this lush landscape, offering a chance to observe the giant tortoises up close and personal. The highlands also provide panoramic views of the island, showcasing its diverse topography.

After your morning exploration, it's time to say goodbye to the Galapagos Islands and transfer back to the Ecuador mainland. Reflect on the incredible experiences and the unique wildlife and landscapes you've encountered during your journey. The transfer to the airport is an opportunity to take in the last views of this enchanting archipelago.

This concludes your unforgettable exploration of the Galapagos Islands, a journey filled with natural wonders and wildlife encounters that will leave a lasting impression and a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.

Galaxy Diver - Naturalist Cruise
Location
San Cristobal Island
Day
5 / 5
1 / 5

8 Day - Long Naturalist Cruise

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM: Your voyage to the captivating Galapagos Islands commences! Upon your arrival at Baltra Airport, you'll be greeted by our National Park-certified naturalist guide, ready to introduce you to the unique wonders of this pristine archipelago.

PM: Embark on a highlands adventure, either from Baltra or Puerto Ayora. A bus journey brings you to the verdant highland forests, home to Galapagos Giant tortoises. You'll find these impressive creatures, weighing up to 300 kg/600 lbs, casually grazing or lounging in freshwater ponds. The highlands also host a variety of bird species seldom seen in the lowlands. Depending on your itinerary, explore a lava tunnel and delve into the geological history of these volcanic islands.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Santa Cruz
Day
1 / 8

Tintoreras, Wetlands & Interpretation Center

AM: Start your morning on Isabela Island, embarking on a unique adventure at Tintoreras, a cluster of small isles teeming with wildlife. Sail through crystal-clear waters and discover a vibrant underwater world inhabited by white-tipped sharks, colorful tropical fish, and starfish. 

PM: In the afternoon, explore the wetlands of Isabela Island, a vital ecosystem for the biodiversity of the Galapagos. These trails take you through mangroves, saline lagoons, and beaches, where you can spot flamingos, blue-billed ducks, and other aquatic birds. Conclude the day at the Interpretation Center, discovering the natural and human history of the islands, their conservation, and the ongoing efforts to protect this World Heritage Site.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Isabela Island
Day
2 / 8

Moreno Point & Elizabeth Bay

AM: Commence your day at the enchanted Moreno Point. The extensive lava fields may appear lifeless, but scattered brackish lagoons teeming with life, such as flamingos, gallinules, ducks, and herons lie within its borders. Along the coast, keep an eye out for penguins, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, oystercatchers, and other shore birds.

PM: Elizabeth Bay, your afternoon stop, is a sheltered bay encircled by towering mangroves and barren lava fields. There are no trails here, so you'll undertake a dinghy tour to explore the teeming channels, pools, and coves. This location is one of the finest to observe Galapagos penguins, flightless cormorants, blue-footed boobies, pelicans, rays, and sea turtles.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Isabela Island
Day
3 / 8

Mangle Point & Urbina Bay

AM: Begin your day at Mangle Point on the pristine Fernandina Island, one of the Galapagos's most untouched and ecologically pure islands. This location offers a spectacular mangrove ecosystem, a haven for wildlife. As your boat gently navigates through the clear waters, observe the intricate mangrove roots where marine turtles and rays often hide. The calm and shallow waters make this an ideal spot for snorkeling, offering a chance to swim alongside sea turtles, various species of rays, and abundant tropical fish.

Mangle Point presents a unique opportunity to witness the symbiosis between the mangrove forests and the marine environment, offering a serene and intimate experience with nature.

PM: Urbina Bay, known for its dramatic uplift during the 1950s, awaits your visit in the morning. As you traverse the trail, observe small shells and corals, indicators that this area was submerged just over sixty years ago. Here, you can encounter land iguanas and, during certain seasons, giant tortoises. Galapagos hawks nest in the area, often seen soaring or perched on trees.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Fernandina - Isabela
Day
4 / 8

Tagus Cove & Espinoza Point

AM: Tagus Cove, a location visited by Charles Darwin during his Galapagos exploration, offers a dry Palo Santo forest where Darwin finches and mockingbirds reside. Take in the marvelous views of Darwin's Lake and the grand volcanos of northern Isabela. A boat tour along the coast will reveal penguins, cormorants, marine iguanas, and the Galapagos martin, an endangered endemic species.

PM: Espinoza Point is a National Park gem located at the base of an imposing volcano (the most active in the Galapagos islands). Upon landing, be greeted by hundreds of marine iguanas in the largest colony for the species. Also present are sea lions, flightless cormorants, herons, pelicans, oystercatchers, sea turtles, shorebirds, and more. Look to the mangroves where Galapagos hawks often perch, on the lookout for prey.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Isabela - Fernandina
Day
5 / 8

Egas Point, Espumilla Beach & Bucaneer Cove

AM: Despite its name, there's no port at Puerto Egas, but remnants from the 60s colonization attempts still linger. The trail along the wildlife-rich coastline leads to "the grottos," home to a small colony of the endemic Galapagos fur seal. In 2019, land iguanas were reintroduced, so keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating reptiles.

PM: Start your morning at Espumilla Beach on Santiago Island, a location famous for its stunning, golden sandy beach and mangrove forest. The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles and is also known for its excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The calm waters and diverse marine life, including octopuses, moray eels, and reef sharks, make for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Following the beach, visit Buccaneer Cove, a historic area frequented by pirates and whalers in the past. This cove is surrounded by high cliffs and tuff formations, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheater. It's a great place for spotting seabirds like pelicans, boobies, and seagulls.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Santiago Island
Day
6 / 8

El Barranco & Darwin Bay

AM: Next stop, El Barranco. Known for its fractured lava cliffs serving as the perfect dwelling for storm petrel colonies, this unique ecosystem draws a significant population of short-eared owls. A trail alongside these cliffs reveals red-footed and Nazca boobies aplenty. Resting in the shadows at the cliffs' base, you may spot Galapagos fur seals and numerous seabirds.

PM: Start your day surrounded by the bustling avian life of Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island, a birdwatcher's paradise. As soon as your feet touch the sandy terrain, you're welcomed by a symphony of seabird calls, with frigatebirds, boobies, and gulls soaring overhead or nestled in the foliage. The trail meanders through colonies of sea lions, marine iguanas, night herons, Darwin finches, Galapagos doves, mockingbirds, and more.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Genovesa
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: Your journey continues with a morning visit to North Seymour Island, a spectacular showcase of the Galapagos Islands' diverse wildlife. This relatively flat island is home to a thriving population of blue-footed boobies and frigate birds. The trail winds its way through a forest of low, bushy vegetation, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the fascinating courtship dance of the blue-footed boobies. The island's coastline also allows one to observe sea lions and marine iguanas basking in the sun. The large frigate bird colonies are a sight, especially when the males inflate their bright red throat pouches to attract mates.

PM: As the day winds down, prepare for your return to the Ecuador mainland. Reflect on the extraordinary experiences and memories created as you journey back. The return trip is a time to relax and ponder the unique ecosystems and incredible wildlife you've encountered, leaving the enchanted islands behind but taking a piece of their magic.

This concludes your remarkable journey through the Galapagos, filled with awe-inspiring encounters with nature's wonders, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.

Galaxy Diver - Long Naturalist Cruise
Location
Seymour
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

Accommodations

Social Areas

Al Fresco Lounge
Indoor Lounge
Gangway
Dining Area
Bar
Buffet Station and Dining

Suites & Cabins

Galaxy Diver - Standard Galaxy Diver - Standard Galaxy Diver - Standard Galaxy Diver - Standard Galaxy Diver - Standard
8 Cabins

Standard

Guests
2
Size
6 -12 m² / 69-129 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

The 8 cabins are split over 3 decks, 3 matrimonial on the Upper Deck, 1 twin (convertible to double) on the main deck, and 4 twin on the lower deck (two of which can be converted to doubles). All cabins feature local decoration, functional closets, air conditioning with personal control, reading light and charging ports.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Air conditioning
  • Deck shower
  • WIFI available
  • All inclusive
  • Charging areas for electronic equipment

Equipment

  • Diving gear
  • Satellite phone
  • Diving platform
  • Nitrox
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Wetsuits
  • Stand up paddleboard
  • Kayaks / Canoes
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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