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San Cristobal Istock 636740018
San Cristobal Istock 636740018
The Galapagos Island Where Darwin First Landed

San Cristobal Island

Why San Cristobal Island?
San Cristobal Island is the easternmost island in the Galapagos. It takes its name from St Christopher, Patron Saint of Seafarers, which is apt as it’s the first land mariners would have seen when they sailed west to the archipelago from the Americas.

San Cristobal Island is one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos, geologically speaking. Four volcanoes have fused together, creating its distinctive shape. A single lake, El Junco, provides the island with fresh water, and for this reason it became inhabited relatively early on. The lake is accessible on a relatively easy uphill hike.

When Darwin sailed to the Galapagos, San Cristobal was the first place he came ashore. Today, San Cristobal is one of the few islands in the Galapagos accessible by plane: you can fly here direct from Quito, which is significantly faster and more convenient than coming by boat.

On the island there are plenty of sites of interest to budding conservationists. La Galapaguera, just off the coast, is a sanctuary and breeding station for giant tortoise; and blue footed booby nest at Isla Lobos. In the waters around the island you can spot dolphin, shark, and ray, and there are also plenty of marine iguana, lobster, and sea lion.
Turtle And Tons Of Fish Galapagos Istock 599749232
Luxury experiences crafted just for you
Galapagos Awaits
Best Vessels in the Galapagos
Hero Image Exterior Of Catamaran Elite Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Of Catamaran Elite Bartolome Island
Elite

One of the few catamarans operating in the Galapagos, and specifically designed for these islands, Elite offers its 16 adventurers a high staff ratio, very spacious and well-proportioned living and communal spaces and an extremely stable ride. It’s a good option for those who worry about sea sickness.

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Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht Petrel Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht Petrel Bartolome Island
Petrel

The Petrel’s catamaran design creates the advantages of large, well proportioned spaces on board, along with excellent stability and speed. You will glide swiftly, silently and elegantly – just like a real petrel – between the islands of the Galapagos.

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View From Bartolome Island Istock 470028282
View From Bartolome Island Istock 470028282
The Galapagos Explorer

Lunched in 2024, The Galapagos Explorer offers guests an exclusive island adventure on board a refined and stylish yacht. The crew to guest ratio is larger than usual, promising excellent service, welcoming hospitality and a trip tailored to your interests. When you step off the boat to explore the islands, you can expect the highest standard of guiding too.

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Galapagos Istock Evolution Galapagos
Galapagos Istock Evolution Galapagos
Evolution

Evolution, possibly the most charming of the large yachts in the region, plies the waters of the fantastic Galapagos islands on 7 day itineraries from either Baltra or San Cristobal.

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Hero Image Pool Galapagos Safari Camp Santa Cruz Galapagos
Hero Image Pool Galapagos Safari Camp Santa Cruz Galapagos
Galapagos Safari Camp

A stay at the Galapagos Safari Camp is an authentic immersion into the wonderful landscape and ecology of this globally significant archipelago. You will find that the guests here are united in their desire to have a comfortable and active yet low-impact journey of discovery.

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Hero Image Lodge Exterior Pikaia Lodge Santa Cruz Galapagos
Hero Image Lodge Exterior Pikaia Lodge Santa Cruz Galapagos
Pikaia Lodge

The Galapagos Islands are strongly protected by the Ecuadorian Government, which limits the amount of development and foot-traffic on the islands. Pikaia Lodge therefore offers a rare opportunity to stay on dry land and explore the island of Santa Cruz in depth. An island stay is ideal for those who suffer from sea sickness.

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View Evolve Galapagos
View Evolve Galapagos
Evolve

MV Evolve, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Origin and Theory, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.

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Hero Image Exterior Theory Galapagos
Hero Image Exterior Theory Galapagos
Theory

MV Theory, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Origin and Evolve, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.

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Exterior Aerial Aqua Mare Galapagos
Exterior Aerial Aqua Mare Galapagos
Aqua Mare

Let Journeysmiths take you on a breathtaking voyage of discovery aboard this luxury superyacht in search of iguanas, whales and flamingos. Unique Aqua Mare will take you through the spectacular volcanic islands of the Galapagos in utmost luxury. Complete with sun deck, outdoor barbeque areas, jacuzzi and panoramic lounge area, this is the ultimate Galapagos experience.

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Hero Image Ship Silver Origin Galapagos
Hero Image Ship Silver Origin Galapagos
Silver Origin

With one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the Galapagos fleet, the Silver Origin provides its guests with “big ship” levels of luxury and service whilst also ensuring that they have an intimate and immersive experience of the wonders of the archipelago. This vessel, specifically designed for the waters of the Galapagos, sets the standards that others attempt to follow.

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Hero Image Ship Silver Galapagos Galapagos
Hero Image Ship Silver Galapagos Galapagos
Silver Galapagos

Combining small yacht charm with big ship facilities, a journey on Silver Galagos is an experience of personalised luxury whilst being introduced to this amazing landscape and ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands.

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Hero Image Ship Exterior Mv Origin Galapagos
Hero Image Ship Exterior Mv Origin Galapagos
MV Origin

MV Origin, along with its identical sister ships, MVs Theory and Evolve, are the only cruise yachts operating in the Galapagos under the affiliation of Relais & Chateaux. There is no doubt that these ships assure their guests the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine whilst experiencing this unique environment.

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Hero Image Exterior Of Ship Isabella Ii Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Of Ship Isabella Ii Bartolome Island
Isabella II

The unique size and scope of Isaballa II – 55m long but with just 40 guests – gives it an individual character that stands out in the Galapagos fleet. Combining the size and amenities of a ship with the relaxed intimacy of a yacht, you will have the best of both worlds as you journey through the teeming waters around the Galapagos Islands.

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Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht La Pinta Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht La Pinta Bartolome Island
La Pinta

La Pinta is a truly luxurious yacht; it is the ideal choice for travellers seeking to cruise the Galapagos in style. The yacht’s extensive crew are on hand to cater to your every need, and the facilities on board are exceptional.

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Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht Ocean Spray Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Of Yacht Ocean Spray Bartolome Island
Ocean Spray

We love the fact that Ocean Spray is unashamedly nautical in its styling; it’s a no-nonsense boat designed to help you see the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. That isn’t to say that you will compromise on comfort, particularly as its catamaran design inherently makes the cabins and communal areas spacious and well-proportioned.

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Hero Image Exterior Endemic Bartolome Island
Hero Image Exterior Endemic Bartolome Island
Endemic

The MC Endemic is one of the newest vessels operating in the Galapagos and certainly one of the most luxurious. You’ll enjoy the highest standard of hospitality, food, service and guidance delivered by a first-class crew.

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Private Journeys Unique to You

We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 25 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made holidays to megadiverse Latin America. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.

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Ecuador and Galapagos Family Holidays

Treat your family to an extraordinary wildlife adventure holiday in the Galapagos and Ecuador. It’s a place you’ll likely visit just once so be sure to do it well. We have access to the finest yachts, lodges and expert guides. This way your family can visit remote islands in comfort and privacy encountering amazing wildlife.

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