Explore the unique landscapes and discover the abundant flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands on an exclusive 16 cabin adventure yacht, the M/Y Grace. Some 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, there are swathes of terracotta red sands, bottle green coloured beaches and volcanic coves.
Set sail in November, the optimum month for spotting sea turtles and marine life. Snorkel with playful sea lions, explore the habitats of penguins, spot waved albatross and track giant tortoises during this eight day expedition. Participate in conservation work and spend afternoons relaxing on the volcanic-sand beaches.
Dates: 27th November – 3rd December 2020
Maximum number of guests: 16
M/Y Grace Yacht
The voyage takes place on M/Y Grace, a classic adventure yacht. Historically a navy ship, then a wedding gift to Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco. Each of its spacious 16 cabins has an ensuite and overlooks the water. A jacuzzi is a welcome break after a morning spent swimming or snorkelling. Sunset cocktails are served at the topdeck’s sky lounge bar.
On board naturalists lead informative presentations in the evening. M/Y Grace always has a full and experienced crew while a knowlegable guide is on hand to lead guests to the lesser known spots in the archipelago.
Itinerary Highlights
Following in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, explore the sandy white-coral beaches of Las Bachas, where sea lions doze and blue footed booby birds patrol. Land on the volcanic black beaches of James Bay, and hike to a series of crystal clear grottos formed of broken lava tubes. Discover inland lagoons peppered with flamingos and iguanas. Birders can look out for vermillion flycatchers, Galapagos Hawks and the tool wielding woodpecker finch. A top snorkelling spot, sandy beaches slope off to a rocky bottom where sea turtles hide and blend in.
Hop on one of the yacht’s pangas and motor past the tangle of mangrove roots bordering Elizabeth Bay. Marvel as eagle rays, golden rays and sea turtles glide by. Further along the coast of Isabela, stop at Punta Moreno a pahoehoe lava field. Along the shore spot Galapagos penguins, flightless comorants, and a colony of mohawked marine iguanas.
Sail to Punta Vicente Roca where remnants from an ancient volcano form two turquoise bays, protected from ocean swells. Cold water currents and protection from the coves make it one of the archipelago’s best dive spots.
Stop at Santa Cruz Island, the second largest in the archipelago and see Giant Tortoises and their hatchlings up close. Hike the Santa Cruz highlands where dry coastal vegetation transitions into lush fields and forests filled with moss and lichen.
