8-night Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise – In Darwin's Footsteps

September 24, 2025

Hurtigruten/HX: MS Santa Cruz II

Roundtrip Quito

Vacation Offer ID 1552376

Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.

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Overview

Ship Info

Activities & Services

Deckplans

The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

Flights

Roundtrip flights in economy class (from Quito to Baltra, and Baltra to Guayaquil. Or, you can continue from Guayaquil to Quito. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. Please contact us to continue on to Quito at the end of your tour.)

Hotel

Two nights at a hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on Day 2

Transfers

Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Quito before the expedition cruise
Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra

Excursion

Full-day excursion: Historic Quito and Middle of the World, including lunch, before the expedition cruise

Extras

Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit control card for the Galápagos Islands
Access to the airport lounge at the Guayaquil (or Quito) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation

Expedition Cruise

Stay in a cabin of your choice
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including beverages*
Complimentary tea and coffee
Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
Complimentary reusable water bottle
English-speaking Expedition Team who organize and guide activities, both on board and ashore
Range of included activities
Complimentary wetsuit rental
Welcome and farewell cocktails

Onboard activities

In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
Use of our Science Center, which features a small library and microscope
The Citizen Science Program allows guests to contribute to ongoing scientific research projects.
Our onboard professional photographer will give photography tips and teach techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife photos.
Use of the ship’s hot tubs and gym
Join informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings.

Landing activities

Escorted landings with small panga boats
Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for the activities
Expedition photographers will be on hand to assist you.

Destination Guide
Suggested Shore Excursions

Destination	Arrival	Departure
Quito Quito 09/24/2025 Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Quito. Your journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town, which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colorful plazas, magnificent churches, and stately monuments. Settle into your hotel, then head out to explore. If you have time, come a few days earlier and join one of the optional Pre-Programs.,	09/24/2025	09/24/2025
Quito Quito 09/25/2025 Straddle the Equator in the Middle of the World City. Today, enjoy a guided tour of Quito's remarkable Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way. Next, you'll head to the iconic 'Middle of the World City', located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, you'll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.,	09/25/2025	09/25/2025
Mitad del Mundo Mitad del Mundo 09/25/2025 Straddle the Equator in the Middle of the World City. Today, enjoy a guided tour of Quito's remarkable Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way. Next, you'll head to the iconic 'Middle of the World City', located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, you'll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.,	09/25/2025	09/25/2025
Quito Quito 09/26/2025 Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you. Get your first glimpse of the islands' incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We'll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look. As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.,	09/26/2025	09/26/2025
Air Travel Air Travel 09/26/2025 Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you. Get your first glimpse of the islands' incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We'll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look. As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.,	09/26/2025	09/26/2025
Cruise Starts (Embarkation) Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 09/26/2025 Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you. Get your first glimpse of the islands' incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We'll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look. As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.,	09/26/2025	09/26/2025
Isla Baltra Isla Baltra 09/26/2025 Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you. Get your first glimpse of the islands' incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We'll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look. As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.,	09/26/2025	09/26/2025
Isla Mosquera Isla Mosquera 09/26/2025 Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. A transfer will take you straight to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits you. Get your first glimpse of the islands' incredible wildlife on Mosquera Islet, home to one of the largest sea lion colonies in the archipelago. We'll take our small panga boats ashore for a closer look. As you stroll across the flat, sandy dunes, look out for blue-footed boobies and Sally Lightfoot crabs, and learn about the marine and terrestrial ecosystems from your naturalist guides.,	09/26/2025	09/26/2025
Isla San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) Isla San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) 09/27/2025 Meet the famous giant tortoises. Your first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It's also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard. The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat. Our small panga boats will then take us to Punta Pitt, the only site in the Galápagos Islands where we might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.,	09/27/2025	09/27/2025
Galapaguero Cerro Colorado Galapaguero Cerro Colorado 09/27/2025 Meet the famous giant tortoises. Your first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It's also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard. The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat. Our small panga boats will then take us to Punta Pitt, the only site in the Galápagos Islands where we might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.,	09/27/2025	09/27/2025
Punta Pitt Punta Pitt 09/27/2025 Meet the famous giant tortoises. Your first stop today is the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Reserve, a breeding center for the endangered giant tortoise. It's also home to other endemic species, including the San Cristóbal mockingbird and the lava lizard. The giant tortoise is probably the most iconic of all Galápagos wildlife, with a lifespan of over 100 years. They thrive here, ambling around forests similar to their natural habitat. Our small panga boats will then take us to Punta Pitt, the only site in the Galápagos Islands where we might see three species of boobies. Enjoy a nature walk, explore the coastline by boat, or snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear water.,	09/27/2025	09/27/2025
Isla Santa Fe Isla Santa Fe 09/28/2025 Spot wildlife against idyllic backdrops. We start the day with a scenic nature walk on the blissful beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a colony of sea lions. You can swim or snorkel from the small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in a glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below. After a delicious lunch prepared by our onboard chefs, we head to South Plaza Island. Keep an eye out for frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and Galápagos shearwaters gliding on the breeze. Here, among a dazzling array of flora, land iguanas laze by the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water.,	09/28/2025	09/28/2025
South Plaza South Plaza 09/28/2025 Spot wildlife against idyllic backdrops. We start the day with a scenic nature walk on the blissful beaches of Santa Fe, home to the endemic Barrington land iguana and a colony of sea lions. You can swim or snorkel from the small panga boats, take a kayak for a paddle around the island, or join a trip in a glass-bottomed boat to observe the marine life below. After a delicious lunch prepared by our onboard chefs, we head to South Plaza Island. Keep an eye out for frigatebirds, swallow-tailed gulls, and Galápagos shearwaters gliding on the breeze. Here, among a dazzling array of flora, land iguanas laze by the shore while marine iguanas slip in and out of the water.,	09/28/2025	09/28/2025
Puerto Ayora Puerto Ayora 09/29/2025 Learn about local conservation efforts on Santa Cruz Island. Today, we pay a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. At this giant tortoise breeding center, you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin's famous finches — the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There's also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that is home to many land birds. Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools. You'll also have time for another activity, such as mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.,	09/29/2025	09/29/2025
Punta Suarez Punta Suarez 09/30/2025 Lava lizards and incredible birdlife. Your Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago's southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross. This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air. After lunch onboard the ship, we'll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you're feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.,	09/30/2025	09/30/2025
Gardner Bay Gardner Bay 09/30/2025 Lava lizards and incredible birdlife. Your Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago's southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross. This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air. After lunch onboard the ship, we'll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you're feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.,	09/30/2025	09/30/2025
Osborn Islet Osborn Islet 09/30/2025 Lava lizards and incredible birdlife. Your Galápagos Islands cruise reaches Española, the archipelago's southernmost island. Birdlife here is truly extraordinary. On cruises from April through December, look for Nazca boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and the mighty waved albatross. This is also a great chance to spot red Española lava lizards and marine iguanas, as well as see El Soplador, the famous blowhole that blasts water 75 feet into the air. After lunch onboard the ship, we'll head to the picturesque coral beach of Gardner Bay and nearby Osborn Islet to seek out sea lions, mockingbirds, and finches. If you're feeling active, you can go snorkeling or kayaking.,	09/30/2025	09/30/2025
Eden Islet Eden Islet 10/01/2025 Green turtles, sharks, and rare bird colonies. The abundant wildlife-watching opportunities continue at Eden Islet, where we hope to see Galápagos green turtles, rays, and friendly reef sharks. On shore, look for distinctive frigatebirds with their rubbery, red throats. You can swim or snorkel to explore the reefs. You can also see the reefs from our glass-bottomed boat or by kayak. After lunch, we'll sail to North Seymour. The island is a great site for spotting colonies of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Sea lions and marine iguanas also congregate here, attracted by the bountiful sea life in its waters.,	10/01/2025	10/01/2025
North Seymour North Seymour 10/01/2025 Green turtles, sharks, and rare bird colonies. The abundant wildlife-watching opportunities continue at Eden Islet, where we hope to see Galápagos green turtles, rays, and friendly reef sharks. On shore, look for distinctive frigatebirds with their rubbery, red throats. You can swim or snorkel to explore the reefs. You can also see the reefs from our glass-bottomed boat or by kayak. After lunch, we'll sail to North Seymour. The island is a great site for spotting colonies of blue-footed boobies and swallow-tailed gulls. Sea lions and marine iguanas also congregate here, attracted by the bountiful sea life in its waters.,	10/01/2025	10/01/2025
Isla Baltra Isla Baltra 10/02/2025 From the Galápagos Islands back to Quito. Your expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, stay and join one of the optional Post-Programs. As you leave this fascinating region, you'll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.,	10/02/2025	10/02/2025
Cruise Ends (Debarkation) Cruise Ends (Debarkation) 10/02/2025 From the Galápagos Islands back to Quito. Your expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, stay and join one of the optional Post-Programs. As you leave this fascinating region, you'll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.,	10/02/2025	10/02/2025
Air Travel Air Travel 10/02/2025 From the Galápagos Islands back to Quito. Your expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, stay and join one of the optional Post-Programs. As you leave this fascinating region, you'll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.,	10/02/2025	10/02/2025
Quito Quito 10/02/2025 From the Galápagos Islands back to Quito. Your expedition cruise draws to a close as you disembark at Baltra Island. A transfer will take you to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito to connect to your international flight. Flight to Quito must be requested at the time of booking. If you prefer, you can continue to Guayaquil for another adventure. To explore more of Ecuador, stay and join one of the optional Post-Programs. As you leave this fascinating region, you'll take with you incredible memories of amazing wildlife and wonderful experiences few have the privilege of enjoying.,	10/02/2025	10/02/2025

When you are exploring the Galápagos islands onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home onboard.

Ship Highlights

Social Areas located across the the ship, offers a comfortable seating area and an immaculate view of the nearby islands
Enjoy delicious food in the nice restaurant and wide variety of culinary experiences that encompass all diets and preferences
Guests can relish the Galápagos Islands landscapes at the rear terrace, which also doubles as an area
Take a tour at Science Corner, a perfect learning zone about science activities

Ship Statistics

Maiden Voyage: 2002
Last Refurbished: 2021
Gross Tonnage: 2,664 T
Beam: 44 ft (13.4 m)

Maximum Speed: 10.5 knots
Ship Length: 236 ft (71.8 m)
Passenger Capacity: 90

Dining

Bar & Lounges

Onboard Activities

Outdoor Activities

Wellness

Oceanview

Voyager Single Cabin (VH) Call for pricing

Category: VH
Deck 2

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer a single bed and plenty of space for solo travelers. There are 2 Voyager cabins located on the Horizon deck. Bathroom. Size 12 sq.m.

Explorer Cabin (EP) Call for pricing

Category: EP
Deck 4

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 23 Explorer cabins located on the Horizon deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.

Explorer Cabin (EH) Call for pricing

Category: EH
Deck 2

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 17 Explorer cabins located on the Expedition deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.

Explorer Cabin (EE) Call for pricing

Category: EE
Deck 3

With comfortable spaces and large picture windows to illuminate the interior spaces and allow guests to take in the views, these cabins offer elegant areas to relax after a day of active exploring. There are 3 Explorer cabins located on the Panorama deck. Bathroom. Size 15 sq.m.

Suite

The fare includes taxes, fees, port expenses, and charges imposed by governmental or quasi-governmental authorities.

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy, valid for North American residents only and are subject to availability and change without notice and voyage only. The ship departure date determines the price of your voyage. Itinerary and port order subject to change.

Not Included

International flights
Travel insurance
Luggage handling

Extras

Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit Control Card for Galápagos Islands
Access to airport lounge at Guayaquil or Quito airport upon return from Galápagos Islands

Notes

All planned activities are subject to weather and conditions
Excursions and activities are subject to change
Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
No gratuities expected onboard
Washers and dryers available onboard for guest use
Please read our health & safety guidelines

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Deck 5

Stateroom Key

(DS)
Explorer Cabin (EP)
Explorer Cabin (EE)
(FH)
Explorer Cabin (EH)
Voyager Single Cabin (VH)

Deck 4

Stateroom Key

(DS)
Explorer Cabin (EP)
Explorer Cabin (EE)
(FH)
Explorer Cabin (EH)
Voyager Single Cabin (VH)

Deck 3

Stateroom Key

(DS)
Explorer Cabin (EP)
Explorer Cabin (EE)
(FH)
Explorer Cabin (EH)
Voyager Single Cabin (VH)

Deck 2

Stateroom Key

(DS)
Explorer Cabin (EP)
Explorer Cabin (EE)
(FH)
Explorer Cabin (EH)
Voyager Single Cabin (VH)

Deck 1

Stateroom Key

(DS)
Explorer Cabin (EP)
Explorer Cabin (EE)
(FH)
Explorer Cabin (EH)
Voyager Single Cabin (VH)

8-night Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise – In Darwin's Footsteps

Cruise Inclusions

Quito 09/24/2025

Quito 09/25/2025

Mitad del Mundo 09/25/2025

Quito 09/26/2025

Air Travel 09/26/2025

Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 09/26/2025

Isla Baltra 09/26/2025

Isla Mosquera 09/26/2025

Isla San Cristobal (Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) 09/27/2025

Galapaguero Cerro Colorado 09/27/2025

Punta Pitt 09/27/2025

Isla Santa Fe 09/28/2025

South Plaza 09/28/2025

Puerto Ayora 09/29/2025

Punta Suarez 09/30/2025

Gardner Bay 09/30/2025

Osborn Islet 09/30/2025

Eden Islet 10/01/2025

North Seymour 10/01/2025

Isla Baltra 10/02/2025

Cruise Ends (Debarkation) 10/02/2025

Air Travel 10/02/2025

Quito 10/02/2025

Dining

Bar & Lounges

Onboard Activities

Outdoor Activities

Wellness

Oceanview

Suite

Extras

Stateroom Key

Stateroom Key

Stateroom Key

Stateroom Key

Stateroom Key