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Eminence Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary A (Saturday to Saturday)

8 Days (7 Nights)
Eminence Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary A (Saturday to Saturday)

Overview

This 7-night Itinerary A sails Saturday to Saturday aboard the M/C Eminence and visits Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, Bartolome, Chinese Hat and North Seymour. Fares start at US$12,990 per person in a double cabin, with departures listed below through 2028. The pick for guests who want the newest hardware in the islands: elevator, spa, gym and the only private-jacuzzi suites in the fleet.

The M/C Eminence is the newest and largest catamaran in this fleet, taking its first guests in April 2027. It carries 16 guests in nine suites: five Golden Suites with enlarged private balconies, two Panorama Suites with their own lounge, terrace and personal jacuzzi, and two Lofts on the upper level. A panoramic elevator links the main deck to the sky deck, which is rare on a yacht of this size and makes the boat a sensible choice for guests with limited mobility.

Four decks give plenty of room to spread out: suites and a briefing lounge on the main deck, the Panorama Suites and a spa on the upper deck, an al-fresco bar, dining area and outdoor jacuzzi on the sky deck, and a gym with an infrared sauna on the top moon deck. Solar panels, water-reuse systems and full wastewater treatment are built in, and the vessel is committed to certified carbon neutrality within its first year.

Excursions are led by licensed Galapagos National Park naturalist guides in groups of no more than eight. Snorkelling equipment, wetsuits, kayaks and paddle boards are included.

Islands you will visit

  • Santa Cruz
  • Isabela
  • Fernandina
  • Santiago
  • Bartolome
  • Chinese Hat
  • North Seymour

Itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Day 1 - Saturday: Santa Cruz

  • BALTRA AIRPORT - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Fausto Llerena Breeding Center Upon arrival, reception and assistance at the airport, followed by transfer to M/C Eminence. In the afternoon, visit to the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center, located at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. This important conservation site offers a close look at the work being done to protect the iconic Galapagos giant tortoise. During the visit, guests can observe tortoises at different stages of development, from young hatchlings to fully grown adults, while learning about breeding and repopulation efforts across the archipelago. It is also an excellent introduction to the fragile ecosystems of the islands and the long-term commitment required to preserve them.
  • Activities: Walking
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: lunch, dinner
DAY 2
ISABELA ISLAND

Day 2 - Sunday: Isabela

  • ISABELA ISLAND: Tintoreras - Sierra Negra Volcano / Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center In the morning, guests arrive at Isabela Island, the largest island in the Galapagos. The first excursion takes place at Tintoreras, a group of small lava islets just off the coast. This site is known for its calm waters, volcanic scenery, and remarkable wildlife. Along the trail, marine iguanas often rest on the black rocks, while sea lions and Galapagos penguins are frequently seen nearby. Snorkeling here may reveal white tipped reef sharks resting in shallow channels, which gave this site its name. The morning continues with a visit to Sierra Negra Volcano, whose immense caldera opens onto one of the most impressive volcanic landscapes in the archipelago.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • In the afternoon, visit to the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center, where conservation programs support several giant tortoise populations native to Isabela Island. During the visit, guests can observe tortoises in different stages of growth and learn more about the protection efforts that help preserve these emblematic reptiles. This stop offers valuable insight into the ecological importance of Isabela and the ongoing work carried out to protect its endemic species.
  • Activities: Walking
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 3
ISABELA ISLAND

Day 3 - Monday: Isabela

  • ISABELA ISLAND: Moreno Point - Elizabeth Bay In the morning, visit to Moreno Point, located on the western side of Isabela Island. This visitor site is defined by expansive lava fields created by past volcanic activity. A walk across the dark terrain leads to a series of inland lagoons where flamingos, gallinules, and pintail ducks may be seen. The contrast between the dry lava landscape and the life that gathers around the water makes this visit especially striking. Marine iguanas are commonly found warming themselves on the rocks, and the nearby shoreline may also reveal turtles and rays.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • In the afternoon, discover Elizabeth Bay by dinghy ride. There is no landing at this visitor site, allowing the experience to unfold entirely from the water. Surrounded by red mangroves and quiet channels, the bay offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in a serene setting. Guests may spot Galapagos penguins, sea turtles, rays, pelicans, and flightless cormorants as the dinghy moves through one of the most peaceful marine habitats in the western islands.
  • Activities: Dinghy ride, kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Type of landing: No landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 4
ISABELA ISLAND

Day 4 - Tuesday: Isabela

  • FERNANDINA ISLAND: Espinoza Point - ISABELA ISLAND: Vicente Roca Point In the morning, visit to Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, one of the most untouched ecosystems in the Galapagos. The lava shoreline is home to one of the largest colonies of marine iguanas in the archipelago, often seen gathered in large numbers across the rocks. Sea lions rest near the coast, Sally Lightfoot crabs add bright color to the black lava, and flightless cormorants can often be observed along the shore. The surrounding scenery is raw and dramatic, offering one of the most distinctive landscapes of the voyage.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • In the afternoon, continue to Vicente Roca Point, on the northwestern coast of Isabela Island. This spectacular area is known for its cliffs, deep blue waters, and abundant marine life. The nutrient rich waters make this one of the most rewarding places for snorkeling, with chances to see sea turtles, rays, penguins, and other species moving through the bay. The towering rock formations complete a setting that feels both remote and extraordinary.
  • Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: No landing
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 5
SANTIAGO ISLAND

Day 5 - Wednesday: Santiago

  • SANTIAGO ISLAND: Egas Port - Buccaneer Cove / Espumilla Beach In the morning, guests visit Egas Port on Santiago Island. This historic site combines a rugged coastline with rich wildlife activity. A coastal walk passes lava formations, tide pools, and shorelines where marine iguanas, sea lions, and several bird species can be seen. At the end of the trail lies the well-known fur seal grotto, where Galapagos fur seals often rest in shaded lava crevices close to the sea. The area offers a memorable blend of geology, wildlife, and coastal scenery.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling
  • Type of landing: Wet Landing
  • Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
  • In the afternoon, exploration continues at Buccaneer Cove and Espumilla Beach, located along the northern coast of Santiago. Buccaneer Cove was once used as a refuge by pirates and sailors, and today it stands out for its cliffs and rock formations shaped by the ocean. The nearby beach at Espumilla offers a softer landscape of sand, mangroves, and coastal vegetation, where sea turtles may nest seasonally. Depending on conditions, this visit may include snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, or a dinghy ride along the coast.
  • Activities: Walking, Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking/stand-up paddleboarding
  • Type of landing: Wet landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 6
BARTOLOMé ISLAND

Day 6 - Thursday: Bartolome

  • BARTHOLOMEW ISLAND - SANTIAGO ISLAND: Sullivan Bay In the morning, visit to Bartholomew Island, one of the most iconic landscapes in the Galapagos. A wooden stairway leads to a viewpoint with sweeping views over Pinnacle Rock, surrounding bays, and lava formations shaped by volcanic activity. From the summit, guests can appreciate the striking colors and textures of the islands from above. The beach below also offers the chance for snorkeling in clear waters, where tropical fish and, on occasion, Galapagos penguins may be seen.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Wet landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • In the afternoon, visit to Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island. This site is known for its extensive lava field, formed during a relatively recent volcanic eruption. A walk across the hardened surface reveals textures, patterns, and formations that show the volcanic origin of the archipelago in a vivid way. Even in this stark environment, pioneering plants have started to grow, creating a fascinating contrast between fresh lava and new life.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 7
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Day 7 - Friday: Santa Cruz

  • SANTIAGO ISLAND: Chinese Hat - SANTA CRUZ ISLAND: Dragon Hill In the morning, explore Chinese Hat, a small islet off the coast of Santiago Island. Its name comes from its distinctive cone shape, and the area is known for its beautiful volcanic scenery and rich marine life. A short walk leads across lava formations and along the shoreline, where marine iguanas and sea lions are often present. The surrounding waters are ideal for snorkeling, with good chances to see colorful fish, penguins, and other marine species.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, kayaking/stand-up paddleboarding, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Wet landing
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • In the afternoon, the yacht sails to Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island. This visitor site features a trail that passes through a dry landscape of cacti and palo santo trees, then continues inland toward lagoons where flamingos and other birds may be seen. Dragon Hill is also one of the key places to observe Galapagos land iguanas, which have been successfully reintroduced to the area through conservation efforts. The walk ends with beautiful views over the coastline and nearby islands.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 8
NORTH SEYMOUR ISLAND

Day 8 - Saturday: North Seymour Island - Baltra Airport

  • North Seymour Island - Baltra Airport
  • In the morning, visit to North Seymour, one of the most important nesting sites for seabirds in the Galapagos. The trail crosses a low, flat landscape where blue footed boobies and magnificent frigatebirds can often be seen at close range. During the breeding season, male frigatebirds inflate their red throat pouches in a striking courtship display. Sea lions rest along the coast, while marine iguanas and shorebirds can also be spotted throughout the walk. This final excursion offers a memorable closing to the journey.
  • Activities: Walking, snorkeling, Dinghy ride
  • Type of landing: Dry landing
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • After this last visit, transfer to Baltra Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador. Assistance and farewell at the airport.
  • Meals on board: breakfast
  • End of cruise Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to weather conditions, National Park regulations, emergencies on board or any unforeseen situation.

Book This Tour

Eminence Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary A (Saturday to Saturday)
Choose Departure and Occupancy
Prices per person
Date
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
2027 Departures
Sat
1May
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
15May
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
29May
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
26Jun
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
10Jul
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
24Jul
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
21Aug
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
4Sep
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
18Sep
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
2Oct
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
16Oct
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
13Nov
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
27Nov
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
11Dec
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,458.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
25Dec
2027
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 12,990.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 19,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
2028 Departures
Sat
8Jan
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
5Feb
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
19Feb
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
4Mar
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
18Mar
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
1Apr
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
15Apr
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
29Apr
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
13May
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
27May
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft
Sat
24Jun
2028
Golden Suite
Per person
US$ 13,650.00
Golden Suite
Panorama Suite / Loft
Per person
US$ 20,490.00
Panorama Suite / Loft

Terms & Conditions

Payment Policy*:

  • At the time of booking a deposit of 20% of the total tour price
  • The remaining balance is due a minimum of 65 calendar days prior to departure date

To issue final confirmation Palace tours requires 60 days prior to departure (or at time of reservation for last minute bookings) the following information for all passengers:

  • Complete passenger names
  • Passport numbers (& passport copy in case of children)
  • Nationality
  • Date of birth
  • Marital Status
  • Dietary or medical restrictions

Failure to provide the above information on time may result in delays and possibly passengers missing the tour completely. Palace tours will not accept responsibility or provide refunds if the above information is not provided in its entirety and on time.

Cancellation Policy*

All cancellations must be done in writing. If a cancellation is received more than 125 days prior to tour departure date a Cancellation fee of 10% of the total price will be retained as cancellation fee.  

If a cancellation is received between 124 days and 65 days prior to tour departure date, 20% of the total price will be forfeited. 

In the case of a cancellation received less than 65 days prior to the boat departure the full amount will be retained.

 

*Specific Payment and Cancellation/Reschedule policies for Christmas and New Years´ Eve cruise dates

Inclusions & Exclusions

Rates Include:

  • Transfers airport/yacht/airport in Galapagos
  • Airport reception and assistance
  • Double or single accommodation
  • Guided expeditions according to the itinerary
  • Top bilingual National Park guide (English / Spanish)
  • Cruise Service Officer
  • Activity daily briefing
  • All meals and snacks
  • Soft drinks and juices
  • Captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail
  • Use of sea kayaks and paddle-boards
  • Expedition Gear

Not Included:

  • Round trip to Galapagos
  • Galapagos National Park Entrance fee ($100 - subject to change)
  • Transit Control Card ($20 - subject to change)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Gratuities for guide and crew
  • Travel and health insurance
  • Micro SD Card Mask and snorkel (personal use)

Frequently Asked Questions & Tips

1 When is the best time to visit Galapagos?

Galapagos is a place that can be visited at any time. There are two season, and the warmest is between December and May. It is the time of year when the sky is always clear, and the sun shines strongly. If you love to dive in amazing places, the best time to visit Galapagos is from June to November. During this season the weather is a little cooler, but it gives you the chance to enjoy the best from Galapagos' famous marine reserve.

2 What should we bring?

Since the islands are situated very near the Equator, we recommend that you bring lightweight clothing and of course, don't forget your swimsuits, sun lotion, and good footwear.

3 How long is the flight from Ecuador to the Galapagos?

It depends from where you depart. Flights to the Galapagos leave from Quito and Guayaquil. It takes about half an hour to get from Quito to Guayaquil and roughly one and a half hours from Guayaquil to the islands.

4 Are there any immunizations required/recommended?

For the Galapagos Islands there are no required or recommended immunizations. If you, however, intend to spend more time in Ecuador, especially in the jungle, immunization is highly recommended. As this changes from time to time please check with your local health office (or the Institute for Tropical Diseases) a few weeks in advance of your trip.

5 Are single or triple suites available?

Most of our cruises will assign double cabins to all passengers unless you want to pay the single supplement if traveling alone. Triple cabins can also be arranged on request, depending on availability and the vessel you choose.

6 What is the time zone of the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are 6 hours behind GMT (equivalent to USA Central Standard Time)

7 Does the equatorial line cross the Galapagos Islands?

The equatorial line does pass through the Galapagos, just north of Isla Santiago. Please refer to our Itinerary page to see which itinerary passes through the equatorial line.

8 What are marine currents like the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands waters have the Humboldt Current's influence that brings cold waters especially during the mist rainy season (cool weather) from July to December. The warm season is during the months of January to June. The southeast trade winds become weaker and the water from the Panama Basin remains warm. During this season there is more of a tropical climate with some occasional rains. "El Niño" current may cause a much greater flow of warm waters, making the surface warmer and rainfall increase.

9 What is the water temperature in the Islands?

Average water temperatures in Galapagos:
January - June: 70°F - 80°F (20°C - 26°C)
July - December: 65°F - 75°F (18°C- 23°C)

10 Can you snorkel in the Galapagos?

Snorkeling equipment is available on-board  and is an activity on all of our Galapagos Cruises. All water sports convey a certain risk. Passengers participating in these activities do so under their own responsibility.

*Restrictions and fees might apply, please contact us for more information.

11 Special Diets:

Passengers with special dietary needs are asked to request the latest menu offered  and in such cases that stated menu does not meet their needs to clearly convey their specific dietary needs. It is the responsibility of passengers with specific dietary needs to addressed additional requirements at least 30 days prior to the start of the cruise. Those general and specific needs not clearly conveyed cannot be met. Every reasonable effort will be made to cater to such requests within reason, subject to availability of products in Ecuador  retains the right to refuse to cater such special needs.

12 Which islands does the Eminence Itinerary A visit?

The 7-night Itinerary A visits Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Santiago, Bartolome, Chinese Hat and North Seymour, sailing Saturday to Saturday. See the day-by-day tab for the landing sites and activities on each day.

13 What is included in the M/C Eminence fare?

Accommodation in your suite, all meals and snacks on board, soft drinks, guided excursions with licensed National Park naturalists, snorkelling equipment and wetsuits, kayaks and paddle boards, Galapagos airport transfers and a welcome and farewell cocktail. Flights to the islands, the Galapagos National Park fee and transit card, alcoholic drinks and gratuities are extra.

14 Are the Eminence rates shown the current published rates?

Yes. The dates and per-person double-occupancy fares on this page are refreshed from the vessel's live inventory. Seasonal promotions on individual departures are applied when you enquire, so ask us for the best current fare on your preferred date.

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