2027 Galapagos Adventure Cruise
Adventure

2027 Galápagos Adventure Cruise

Nov 26, 2027  -  Dec 05, 2027
  • Guayaquil
  • Baltra/North Seymor
  • South Plaza
  • Santa Fe
  • San Cristóbal
  • Floreana
  • Santa Cruz
  • Española
  • Baltra
  • Guayaquil
Explore the unmatched nature and wildlife of the Galápagos IslandsBOOK ONLINE OR CALL AN OLIVIA TRAVEL™ CONSULTANTBook Your Perfect Trip

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  • Activity Level: Moderate-Difficult

    Activity Level: Moderate-Difficult

    This trip requires a moderate level of mobility with activities that include walking on uneven terrain, sometimes slippery, rocky, sandy beaches, gentle hiking uphill, sometimes boulders, and getting in and out of zodiacs (smaller boats) from the ship and from the beaches on shore.

    We do our best to assist and look after each other. It’s the nature of who we are. We do offer different levels of hikes at most stops if feasible, from easy/moderate to more strenuous. If hiking is too much, a zodiac ride to look for birds and water mammal life might be offered as a choice.  

    Wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this ship or on shore as there are no elevators on board, and each deck is accessible by stairs only. If you have limited mobility and require assistance to move about the ship or go on any of the excursions you decide to take, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you. Please contact us with any concerns. 

What's Included

  • Hotel accommodations at the Hotel Oro Verde Guayaquil on the nights of Nov. 26 and Dec. 4
  • Accommodation aboard the National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions ms Islander II
  • All meals on board the ship and breakfast at hotel
  • House drinks and wine (premium brands are additional)
  • Complimentary internet for emailing/texting (Other Sky Link plans available for purchase)
  • All Excursions from the ship
  • Transfer to hotel on program start date and ship upon arrival and to hotel and airport upon departure
  • Services of Olivia Cruise Director, Lindblad Expedition Leader, Naturalist Staff, National Geographic Trained
  •  Internal Ecuador flights (Guayaquil – Baltra – Guayaquil)
  • Personalized Team Olivia assistance throughout and more!

What's Included
  • More Inclusions
    • Photography Instructor, and ship doctor
    • Use of kayaks, snorkeling gear, and wetsuits
    • Gratuities to naturalists and ship’s crew
    • Galápagos National Park entrance fee, port charges, and service taxes (subject to increase)
  • What's Not Included
    • International airfare to and from Guayaquil, Ecuador
    • Meals not indicated
    • Premium brand alcoholic beverages
    • LEX Spa services
    • Laundry Services
    • Travel insurance & personal incidentals

Itinerary

  • Day 1Guayaquil, EcuadorFriday, Nov 26, 2027

    Most flights will depart U.S./Canada and arrive in Guayaquil by late evening.

    You will then stay overnight at the Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil . (B/L/D) 

  • Day 2Guayaquil / Baltra, Galápagos / Embark / Daphne MajorEmbark ShipSaturday, Nov 27, 2027

    Fly to Baltra in the center of the famed Galápagos archipelago, a world unto itself in the Tropical Pacific. Take a short bus ride to the dock with our naturalists and embark the ship, waiting at anchor in the bay. After lunch and a chance to settle in, disembark to visit North Seymour, where you’ll be welcomed by sea lions at the dry landing and explore the endemic Palo Santo Forest. This is where colonies of seabirds such as frigates and blue-footed boobies nest. As you make your way along the trail, look for the endemic land iguanas. Alternatively, you may opt to take a Zodiac cruise along the coastline. Welcome to Galápagos! (B/L/D) 

  • Day 3South Plaza / Santa FeSunday, Nov 28, 2027

    This morning, walk through a forest of Opuntia cactus and a colorful carpet of succulents, among sea lions and iguanas, then admire soaring seabirds from the cliffs at Plaza Sur. After lunch visit Santa Fe, home to its own endemic species of land iguana, the largest giant prickly pears in Galápagos, and beaches with bustling sea lion colonies. You’ll have your first opportunity to snorkel in a calm bay, often accompanied by young sea lions and colorful tropical fish, followed by a hike inland or a more leisurely stroll. (B/L/D) 

  • Day 4San Cristobal - Punta Pitt & Cerro BrujoMonday, Nov 29, 2027

    This morning visit Punta Pitt with its fascinating geology; it is also the only site where all three booby species in the Galápagos nest together. You will hike up to the plateau or take Zodiac cruises along the base of the cliffs, for wonderful views and to look for red-footed, Nazca, and blue-footed boobies. You can then enjoy some paddleboarding and swimming or snorkeling off the sparkling beach, often accompanied by curious young sea lions.     

    Back on board, sail south along the coast to Cerro Brujo, where you’ll take Zodiac cruises or kayaks along the base of the impressive tuff stone formations. You will then land on the lovely white sandy beach for nature strolls among sea lions, iguanas, land birds, and lizards endemic to this island, followed by a swimming opportunity from the beach. Later, enjoy a sunset cruise along the spectacular Kicker Rock formation. (B/L/D) 

  • Day 5Floreana - Post Office Bay, Champion Islet & Punta CormorantTuesday, Nov 30, 2027

    You have the option of visiting Post Office Bay on this most mysterious of the Galápagos islands, known for its tales of pirates, buccaneers and early settlers. Our ship will anchor in the same bay that the HMS Beagle, carrying Charles Darwin, stopped at nearly 200 years ago. Follow in a centuries-long tradition of dropping and collecting mail at a barrel system set up by 18th century whalers. Explore the mangrove-lined lagoon of the Baroness’ Lookout by kayak or paddleboard, or enjoy some swimming and snorkeling from the small beach. 

     Over lunch, navigate to Champion Islet, where you will snorkel in clear waters among sea lions and schools of tropical fish, or take Zodiac cruises to look for the endangered Charles Mockingbird. Later, land at Punta Cormorant on a green-tinted beach for late afternoon nature and photo walks; observe flamingos and shore birds on the way to a powdery white sand beach known for its turtle nests. (B/L/D) 

  • Day 6Isabela – Elizabeth Bay & Punta MorenoWednesday, Dec 1, 2027

    Today we explore Isabela, the largest island of the archipelago, formed by the fusion of six great, still active, volcanoes. Take Zodiac cruises and kayak through the mangrove systems of Elizabeth Bay, home to the tallest red mangroves in Galápagos. This is the habitat of turtles, rays, sharks, and several species of shore and seabirds.   

    After lunch, snorkel along the volcanic shoreline at Punta Moreno, bathed by the cool waters of the upwelling Cromwell undercurrent, where we might encounter Galápagos penguins, marine iguanas, and flightless cormorants. Later, take a walk along the stark landscape of pahoehoe lava flows, punctured by green oases in saltwater pools, home to flamingos and other shorebirds.(B/L/D) 

  • Day 7Santa Cruz – Puerto AyoraThursday, Dec 2, 2027

    Call at Puerto Ayora, the largest human settlement in the archipelago and headquarters of the two most important conservation entities in Galápagos: the Galápagos National Park Directorate and the Charles Darwin Research Station, both of which are long-term grantees of the Lindblad-National Geographic Fund. Learn about the conservation efforts run by these organizations, then tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals, a successful pioneering effort to return wild populations to a natural state. 

    After this visit, spend some free time in town and meet at a waterfront restaurant for a special Galápagos lunch. Continue into the highlands of Santa Cruz to explore the cultural and natural attractions of the area, where much of our produce is grown on local farms. This will include a stop at a small ranch located on the traditional migratory route of the Santa Cruz species of giant tortoise, where we’ll spend time enjoying these iconic creatures as they go about their lives, unconcerned by our presence. (B/L/D) 

  • Day 8Española – Gardner Bay/Punta SuarezFriday, Dec 3, 2027

    Today we explore the oldest island of the archipelago, home to species found only here. Land this morning at Gardner Bay, a wide expanse of beach and a beautiful site for early morning nature and photo walks. You’ll walk among colorful red and black marine iguanas and sea lions on a pristine white sand beach. You can also choose to take a last snorkeling outing from our Zodiacs, or a kayaking trip along the coastline. 

    In the afternoon, visit Punta Suarez for spectacular hikes among Darwin’s finches, Galápagos hawks, and large colonies of Nazca boobies. Keep a lookout for the occasional blue-footed booby pair and several species endemic to this island, such as waved albatrosses (seasonally), Hood mockingbirds, and Hood lava lizards. (B/L/D) 

  • Day 9Baltra, Galápagos Islands–Disembark - GuayaquilDisembarkSaturday, Dec 4, 2027

    This morning you will disembark the National Geographic Islands II and transfer to the Baltra Airport. Here you will have access to the V.I.P Lounge until your flight to Guayaquil.  

    You will be met upon arrival in Guayaquil and transferred to the  Hotel Oro Verde hotel. (B/-/-) 

    PLEASE NOTE: You can depart from Guayaquil on a late-night flight tonight after 8 pm (12/4) if you choose. A day room will be provided until your departure to the airport. An airport transfer is included. 

  • Day 10Guayaquil/HomeSunday, Dec 5, 2027

    Hotel check-out is 11 am. Enjoy a complimentary transfer from the hotel to the airport for flights home or on to other adventures. (B/-/-)   

Your Ship: National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions ms Islander II

Olivia has done over 22 Galápagos trips with Lindblad and National Geographic, and we are thrilled about this new vessel!

Lindblad's expedition ship, the ms Islander II (on which we sailed in 2023, 2024 and 2025 and all fell in love with!) is equipped with everything you need to explore the Galápagos archipelago, including a Zodiac landing craft to access those hard-to-reach places, and snorkeling gear and wetsuits to let you explore the amazing underwater world and its inhabitants.

An undersea specialist will be on board to answer all your questions. And, a video chronicler will be on hand to capture every moment of the journey.

Total Occupancy: 48

Your Ship: National Geographic/Lindblad Expeditions ms Islander II
  • All-Suite Accommodations

    18 Suites, 4 Solo suites, and 4 Islander Suites accommodating just 47 guests plus your Olivia Expedition Leader.

    Suites and Solo Suites are 280 sq. ft.—all with large windows, convertible king/twin beds with 600-thread count bedding, ample closets, sofa, shower and marble double-sink bathrooms with a collection of organic amenities crafted exclusively for Lindblad Expeditions. In addition, a stocked mini-bar, and there’s in-room coffee and tea, wifi, and a flat-screen TV. The TV will have a lot of National Geographic content, 26 channels of live TV and more than 200 movies on demand.

    SOLO SUITES! We have spacious solo suites for a very special solo-occupancy rate! Normally to have a room to self is double the per-person rate.

    The top suites, the Islander Suites, are a notable 515 sq. ft. and include all of the above! They have a separate living area, table and chairs, four large windows, walk-in closets, a larger bathroom with both a bathtub and glassed-in rain shower, and commissioned art inspired by the island in each suite’s name. Though there are no outdoor balconies, but there are plenty of spaces to enjoy the outdoors around the ship.

  • Indoor-Outdoor Dining

    Fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable farm-to-table cuisine representing all the regions of the country is developed in partnership with Ecuadorian chefs. Plant-based options are available as well and cocktails and mocktails are crafted with ingredients from the islands.

    Enjoy meals in the expanded al fresco Patio Café, sophisticated Yacht Club Restaurant on the Promenade Deck, or Grill on the Observation Deck, where there’s also a bar and ample seating to host events. Here, guests gather for wine tastings, chocolate tastings, and Bubble-Qs—BBQs made extra celebratory with Champagne. The convenient 24-hour beverage and snack stations in the Bar and Library are other welcome amenities.

  • Public Spaces

    The ship’s public spaces enhance the connection to the islands. Guests will find an open Bridge, surrounding teak decks, and a forward-viewing area. Two dining areas accommodate all guests in a single seating. The Cove, which has a bar, is the setting for daily Recaps. Other ship features include a reception area with glass doors that lead to an open teak Viewing Deck, a Plunge Pool, a Chart Room, the Global Gallery, Library, Marina, Swim Platform, and Zodiac boarding area.

  • The Cove

    The newly reimagined Cove is a gathering spot for pre-dinner Recaps, camaraderie with like-minded travelers, and craft cocktails. Four flat-screen TVs are part of a state-of-the-art communications system for engaging and informative audiovisual presentations. A forward-facing viewing platform invites you to step outside to take in the beauty of the islands.​​​​​​​

  • Expedition Tools

    National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom Zodiac, an expanded flotilla of versatile Zodiac boats, complete snorkel gear, video microscope, Science Hub, and remote ocean view cameras.

    The newly refitted teak-appointed marina is spacious and climate-controlled, designed for guests to comfortably get in and out of expedition gear.

  • Science Hub

    Outfitted with scientific equipment, the exciting new Science Hub continues the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic legacy of supporting conservation and research. Equipped for underway oceanography, interactive video presentations, and an enhanced photo experience.

  • ms Islander II
  • The Cove
  • Patio Cafe
  • Guest Suite
  • Guest Suite Living Room
  • Glass Bottom Boat

Payment Plans

Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:

1. Olivia 6-Month Interest-Free Payment Plan: Olivia's No-Interest Payment Plan gives you the ability to pay for your vacation, without interest, over 6 monthly payments. This option is available for trips departing 12 months or more after the booking date.

2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!

Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance

Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions. Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.

Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page at olivia.com/travel-insurance for more information. For a travel insurance quote, more information or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a Travel Consultant. You may also purchase insurance online after your checkout.

Cancellation Fees

  • 365 days or more prior to trip date: On or Before 11/26/2026

    Cancellation Penalty: 50% of trip cost

  • 0-364 days prior to trip date: 11/27/2026 - 11/26/2027

    Cancellation Penalty: 100% of trip cost (no refund)

Traveler Information

  • About Our Destination

    Climate

    October/November is the dry season on the Galápagos Islands, as it transitions to a warmer wet season in November. The air starts getting warmer, with temperatures rising to 78°F, and the water begins to get warmer, with temperatures around 70-73°F. It is a great month to visit the islands as the Guarúa season is beginning to come to an end and the nights become warmer as well. You can expect barely any rain and not too much heat and humidity. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.

    Currency

    U.S. Dollars are widely accepted. Be sure there are no tears or writing on the bills

    Languages

    Spanish is the main language, but English is widely spoken.

  • Before Your Trip

    Celebrations: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Honeymoons, and More

    If you will have a birthday or celebration during your vacation and have not already informed your Olivia Travel Consultant, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.

    You can register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.

    If you are celebrating a special birthday that does not “officially” fall on the trip dates, please let us know and allow us to choose an appropriate date for the celebration with others who may also be celebrating outside of the trip dates.

    Connect with Other Guests : Join the Facebook Group

    If you'd like to chat with fellow travelers, joinour Facebook Group for this trip.

    Passport and Visa

    You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a US citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

    US citizens do NOT need to get a visa ahead of time. If you are not from the US, please check with your consulate for proper visa requirements.

    Specific Needs: Dietary, Medical, Mobility, and Other

    If you have special medical or dietary needs, please advise us at the time of booking. Complex food allergies and/or needs must be submitted to the cruise line 90 days prior to the cruise. Guests with diabetic, lean/light, low cholesterol, low sodium, vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free, lactose-free can be accommodated with enough advance notice. Please contact Olivia Guest Services at [email protected] if you have not notified us of your dietary needs.

    Vacation Stretchers

    We will offer additional hotel nights in Guayaquil at the Hotel Oro Verde before or after the trip. Please check back for more information, available approximately 6-9 months prior to sailing.

    Vaccinations

    Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” followed by “Vaccinations.”

  • Travel and Arrival

    Air Travel

    Airport: You will need to fly into and out of Guayaquil, Ecuador (GYE). Most flights arrive in the evening. We encourage all guests to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.

    Flight Arrival and Departure Times

    Arrival: Flights into Guayaquil can arrive any time on November 26 and hotel check-in begins at 3 pm.  We always recommend arriving on earlier flights or a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. Olivia will offer additional hotel nights at the hotel approximately 6–9 months prior to the trip. Please call for pricing. 

    Departure:Your flight can leave any time after 8 pm on December 4, or anytime in the morning or early afternoon of December 5, 2027. A day room will be provided and is included up until the time of departure for your late-night flight on December 4. An overnight room will be provided and is included if your flight departs on December 5. The check-out time at the hotel is 11 am. 
     
    Please note if your flight departs on the evening of December 5, you will need to check out of your hotel room by 11:00 am that day. In this case, you may want to consider booking an additional night with us so you can keep your room up until your departure to the airport.  

    Luggage Allowances: While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.

    For the included flight from Guayaquil to the Galápagos, Olivians can check one bag. If you are traveling prior to or after our trip and have an extra bag, you can leave it at the hotel in Guayaquil.

    Transfers and Meeting up with Olivia

    The transfer time is approximately 10 minutes (3 miles) from the airport to the hotel in Guayaquil, depending on traffic. We will provide transfers from the airport to Hotel Oro Verde for Olivians arriving in Guayaquil on November 26. We will be collecting your flight arrival itineraries to organize these transfers. We do not recommend using taxis unless arranged for by hotels.  

    Check-in at the Hotel Oro Verde: Our host hotel in Guayaquil is the beautiful Hotel Oro Verde. This is a newer luxury hotel that offers a variety of amenities and services, with 3 restaurants that include a fondue restaurant and “Le Gourmet”; one of the best rated restaurants in Ecuador. It also has a more casual cafeteria and bar, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and spa, room service and much more.  This is a perfect place to begin and end our trip. 

    We encourage all Olivians to arrive a day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays and to enjoy all the amenities this hotel offers. Should you wish to arrive a day or two early or extend your stay, please contact us for reservations and pricing, which will include your airport transfer approximately 6–9 months prior to the trip. 

    Getting to Your Ship: On November 27, you will be transferred in the morning after breakfast from the hotel to the airport for your flight to the Galápagos. Once we arrive in Galápagos, a bus will transfer you a short distance to the dock. Zodiacs will be waiting to transport us to the ship. 

  • During Your Trip

    Electricity

    Ecuador and the Galápagos operate on US electrical current, 110 volts, 60 cycles.

    Elevator

    There is no elevator on this ship.

    Gratuities

    Gratuities are included in the cost of your trip. Gratuities go to the cabin stewards, dining room staff, kitchen and ship’s crew members. Naturalists and Expedition Leaders are not included in this tip pool. Should you wish to tip additionally, this is up to you.

    Internet

    Internet access is available on board.

    Laundry Services

    The ship offers laundry service and pressing. A price sheet is in your cabin. There is no self-service laundry or ironing.

    Medical Services

    There is a doctor with a minimal medical center on board. Your first visit is complimentary.

    Money: On-Board Purchases

    Upon embarkation, you will register a credit card to your shipboard account to charge premium drinks, services, etc. You will not be able to get cash advances through your credit card.

    Phone

    Cell phone coverage is minimal, but it is available in the more populated areas of Santa Cruz, Baltra, San Cristobal and Puerto Arroyo. Check with your cell phone provider for international rates. Most offer the ability to use this service for $12-$15/day. 

    Satellite phones are available on board at costs of up to $12/minute. 

    Smoking Policy

    The ship is completely non-smoking except for a designated area outdoors. Smoking is not permitted on the uninhabited islands. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation to stay within the designated area for everyone’s health and comfort.

    Spa Services

    Standard spa treatments such as massage are available in the LEX Spa. Pricing will be available on board.

  • After Your Trip

    Disembarkation

    We disembark at approximately 9 am for our transfer to the local Galápagos Airport. Exact flight times from Galápagos to Guayaquil will be in your final documents to be sent 30 days prior to the trip. 

    Hotel

    We will utilize the Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil for our return hotel. Hotel check-in is 3 pm, and check-out is 11 am.  

    Transfers to the Airport

    Transfers to the Guayaquil airport will be provided for those departing the evening of December 4 after 8 pm or the following day, December 5.

    Vacation Stretchers

    We will offer additional hotel nights in Guayaquil at the Hotel Oro Verde after the trip.  Please check back for more information, available approximately 6–9 months prior to sailing.