Natural Paradise – Sample

Cruises

SUMMARY

5 Days

Ecuador, Galapagos Islands

The Natural Paradise Yacht is a mid-range vessel that can comfortably hold up to 16 passengers on 8, 5, and 4-day Galapagos tours. You can choose from 9 different spacious and comfortable cabins that include suites with balconies overlooking the ocean, junior suites, and staterooms, all featuring large bathrooms, air-conditioning, and luxury amenities. Throughout your trip, you will enjoy excellent service provided by the ship’s 10 crew members and cruise director. All excursions are conducted with a certified bilingual naturalist guide.

Please note that every Galapagos vessel operates several different itineraries of varying lengths. Sample itineraries on our website are only meant to give you an idea of the different vessels and voyages available. If you would like a more detailed list of cruise vessels and Galapagos voyages please contact our team of Galapagos Cruise Specialists.

About the vessel:

Natural Paradise is an elegant and comfortable yacht in the Galapagos. Four of her nine cabins feature private balconies and the main deck suite can be converted into a triple room. Her social areas include a beautiful teak sundeck with a Jacuzzi and a cosy al fresco dining. On the main deck, you will find a spacious lounge and dining room. Snorkelling equipment, wetsuits and sea kayaks are available on board.

HIGHLIGHTS

Excellent cruise itineraries that will give you a taste of the Galapagos Island’s stunning diversity
Kayaking, snorkelling and paddle-boarding opportunities included
Record your underwater experiences with the use of the ship’s underwater camera
Small ship, expedition cruising which provides an intimate experience
Your choice of a 4, 5 or 8 day cruise – talk to our specialists to work out what’s right for you

ITINERARY

Day 1 San Cristobal Isl./Galapagos Islands

On arrival into San Cristobal airport you will be met and transferred to the vessel You will be shown to your cabin where you will have some time to settle in before lunch and a welcome briefing.

PM: Kicker Rock- This striking rock formation is located a couple hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, kayaking and scuba diving allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Day 2 South Plaza Isl./Galapagos Islands

AM: North Seymour Island- Galapagos sea lions, blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigate birds are abundant on North Seymour Island. The island was formed by a series of submarine lava containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity. The island is characterised by its arid vegetation zone.

PM: South Plaza Island- In the morning, you will head to South Plaza Island. This small island with steep cliffs was formed by rising lava and is now covered by Opuntia cacti. It is also home to one of the largest sea lion colonies as well as colorful yellow and red land iguanas. The most characteristic plant is Sesuvium. During the rainy season its color is a greenish to yellowish tone and in the dry season (end of June through January) a bright red.

Day 3 Bartholomew Isl./Galapagos Islands

AM: Rabida Island- also known as Jervis, is one of the most colourful and volcanically varied islands in the archipelago and a great snorkelling site. Its famous maroon sandy beach and stunning lookouts provide wonderful landscapes. The island is a birdwatcher’s delight. Some of the rarest species are in abundance, such as nine varieties of finches, large-billed flycatchers, Galapagos hawks and brown pelicans.

PM: Bartholomew Island- Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartholomew consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one of the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkelling and possible sightings of the Galapagos penguin.

Day 4 Santa Cruz Isl./Galapagos Islands

AM: Sullivan Bay- A coral beach landing leads you towards a lava field as far as the eye can see. Hunt and peck over the two distinguished types of lava, pahoehoe and ‘a’a, for signs of plant life that have managed to emerge over the past 100 years since the most recent volcanic explosion. A truly amazing volcanic experience…up close and personal!

PM: Dragon Hill (Cerro Dragón)- Situated on Santa Cruz Island, Dragon Hill is one of the newest visitor sites accessible to tourists in the Galapagos Islands. One of the lengthier Galapagos walking trails will lead visitors along a beach and up a trail to the lagoon lookout where bright flamingos, pintail ducks, and land iguanas can be spotted.

Day 5 Depart Galapagos Islands

AM: Santa Cruz Highlands- Reached by bus from Puerto Ayora, the highlands of Santa Cruz are a deep green contrasting beautifully with much of the dry, lower islands. The dominant vegetation in the highlands is the forest of Scalesia trees creating the lush green colour. The lava tubes, over half a mile long, are underground and walking through them is a unique, surreal experience. After the morning excursion you will be transferred to Baltra Airport for your flight back to the mainland.