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Monique Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary B (Thursday to Thursday)

8 Days (7 Nights)
Monique Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary B (Thursday to Thursday)

Overview

This 7-night Itinerary B sails Thursday to Thursday aboard the M/C Monique and visits Santa Cruz, Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, South Plaza, Santa Fe, Bartolome, Santiago and Genovesa. Fares start at US$8,290 per person in a double cabin, with departures listed below through 2027. The right choice for solo travellers and for guests who want a quieter hybrid boat at a lower fare.

The M/C Monique is a 16-guest catamaran with eight Golden Double Staterooms, four on the main deck and four on the upper deck, plus dedicated single staterooms that let solo travellers cruise without a supplement. Staterooms are furnished with a king bed or two twins, a private bathroom and large picture windows.

The main deck has a forward observation platform, an indoor dining room and a panoramic lounge. The upper deck offers a shaded terrace and a bow sun terrace, and the sky deck brings an outdoor lounge, al-fresco dining, a bar and a whirlpool. Monique runs on hybrid engines with solar panels and lithium batteries, so the boat is quieter at anchor than most of its generation.

The crew-to-guest ratio is close to one to one, with a Cruise Service Officer assigned to each cabin. Licensed Galapagos National Park naturalist guides lead the excursions in groups of eight; snorkelling equipment, wetsuits and kayaks are included.

Islands you will visit

  • Santa Cruz
  • Floreana
  • Espanola
  • San Cristobal
  • South Plaza
  • Santa Fe
  • Bartolome
  • Santiago
  • Genovesa

Itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Day 1 - Thursday: Baltra Airport Arrival / Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)

  • Morning: Baltra Airport Arrival
  • Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and assisted at the airport, then transferred from Baltra Airport to the M/C Monique.
  • Afternoon: Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)
  • On the highlands of Santa Cruz, you'll have the opportunity to see the famous giant tortoises in the wild. So renowned are these endemic animals that they gave the archipelago its name. Birdwatching is also one of the activities to do in the Santa Cruz highlands, since this area is home of finches and other Galapagos birds.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals on board: lunch, dinner
DAY 2
FLOREANA ISLAND

Day 2 - Friday: Champion Islet / Post Office Bay and/or Baroness's Lookout (Flore

  • Morning: Champion Islet
  • In the morning, explore Champion Islet, a small sanctuary near Floreana Island known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. During a panga ride and snorkeling session, guests may encounter sea turtles, playful sea lions, and vibrant schools of fish. This islet also shelters one of the last populations of the Floreana mockingbird, a remarkable spot for wildlife and marine life preservation. Cormorant Point features two contrasting beaches: one with olive -green sand due to the high content of olivine crystals, and another with pure white sand (commonly known as 'Flour Beach') derived from pulverized coral. The saltwater pond is a must-see, as it is frequented by one of the archipelago's largest populations of Galapagos flamingos as well as other shorebirds such as stilts, white -cheeked pintails, and large-billed flycatchers. Afterwards, guests will take a dinghy ride to Devil's Crown, an underwater volcanic crater that is almost completely submerged - in fact, just a small portion of the rock formation can be seen from above, and it looks like a crown. Snorkelers will discover a vast underwater world full of coral reefs and a myriad o f marine species. Birds are also part of this visitor point due to its location in open waters.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walk, snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking / Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Afternoon: Post Office Bay and/or Baroness's Lookout (Flore
  • Post Office Bay is a man -made site that offers an insight into a remarkable mailing tradition developed by British whalers in the 18th century that visitors can still take part in today. The beach here provides for good snorkeling and kayaking and it is also possible to descend into and walk through a lava tube. Next, take a dinghy ride to the Baroness 's Lookout, a volcanic rock formation named after an Australian baroness, who visited the island in the 1930 and is believed to have mysteriously disappeared. A short trail leads to a brilliant vantage point with panoramic views of the surrounding mangroves and coastline.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking / Stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 3
ESPAñOLA ISLAND

Day 3 - Saturday: Suarez Point (Espanola Island) / Gardner Bay (Espanola Island)

  • Morning: Suarez Point (Espanola Island)
  • Suarez Point is packed with wildlife and is best explored by following the circular walking trail. This memorable walk will take you past nesting sites of large colonies of Nazca and blue-footed boobies and mockingbirds. Unique to Espanola Island is also the beautiful waved albatross, which can be seen majestically launching themselves out across the ocean from the cliffs, and the red and green marine iguanas. A geological highlight is several blow holes, capable of shooting water 25m into the air, that make for a spectacular photo.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Afternoon: Gardner Bay (Espanola Island)
  • Spend the afternoon on the soft white sands of Gardner Bay, a pristine beach where sea lions lounge and the ocean invites you in. Whether you choose to swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard, the surrounding turquoise waters offer a perfect opportunity to observe marine life. Just offshore, Gardner and Osborn Islets are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, rays, and playful juvenile sea lions - ideal for a vibrant snorkeling adventure.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 4
SAN CRISTOBAL

Day 4 - Sunday: Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island) / Witch Hill & Kicker Rock (San Cristobal Island)

  • Morning: Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island)
  • In the morning, broaden your understanding of the archipelago at the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. This modern facility offers engaging exhibits that trace the Galapagos' geological beginnings, ecological richness, and complex human history over time. Learn about the unique species that call these islands home and the ongoing conservation initiatives working to protect their fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Afternoon: Witch Hill & Kicker Rock (San Cristobal Island)
  • In the afternoon, head to Witch Hill, a secluded bay with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Its shallow saltwater lagoon offers a peaceful setting ideal for spotting marine life and enjoying views of Kicker Rock from a unique vantage point. During a circumnavigation, you will enjoy breathtaking views of Kicker Rock - a towering, twin- peaked volcanic formation rising from the sea. This iconic landmark is a haven for seabirds such as blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds, often seen perched on its narrow ledges.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy ride, Kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
  • (Kicker Rock circumnavigation)
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 5
SOUTH PLAZA ISLAND

Day 5 - Monday: Santa Fe Island / South Plaza Island

  • Morning: Santa Fe Island
  • Begin your morning by landing on Santa Fe, one of the oldest islands in the Galapagos, known for its towering forests of Opuntia cacti and distinctive pale-yellow land iguanas. Hike along scenic trails that lead you across the island's arid landscape or to elevated viewpoints where these endemic iguanas bask under the sun. After your walk, cool off in the calm, crystal-clear waters of the bay - ideal for swimming or snorkeling alongside playful sea lions, rays, and colorful reef fish.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy ride, Kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Afternoon: South Plaza Island
  • In the afternoon, explore the compact yet incredibly diverse South Plaza Island. Its vivid red and green Sesuvium ground cover contrasts dramatically with the island's black lava and towering prickly pear cacti. Here, you can often see swallow-tailed gulls, tropicbirds, and other seabirds nesting or riding the thermals above the crashing waves.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Dinghy ride, Kayaking/Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 6
BARTOLOMé ISLAND

Day 6 - Tuesday: Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island) / Bartholomew Island

  • Morning: Sullivan Bay (Santiago Island)
  • In the morning, you will visit Sullivan Bay, located on the east coast of Santiago Island. We land on a white coral sand beach and begin our walk over lava that flowed less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin o f Galapagos. Also, in this area you will admire flora that grows in lava fields.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy Ride
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Afternoon: Bartholomew Island
  • In the afternoon, you will discover Bartholomew Island. Once here, you will ascend to admire the spectacular panorama of the Sullivan Bay and the famous Pinnacle Rock. The beaches at the foot of the Pinnacle Rock are excellent for snorkeling from which you can discover the marvelous underwater world, and with a little luck, you'll get to snorkel alongside penguins.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy Ride
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 7
GENOVESA ISLAND

Day 7 - Wednesday: Prince Philip's Steps (Genovesa Island) / Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)

  • Morning: Prince Philip's Steps (Genovesa Island)
  • In the morning, you will go to El Barranco (Prince Philip's Steps), a staircase carved out of stone. This will lead you to a wide plateau, where you can observe large colonies of masked boobies, frigate birds, storm petrels, and tropicbirds. During this easy stroll you will cross a small Scalesia forest, habitat of the short-eared owl. The same path will lead you back to your boat.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy Ride, Kayaking / Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Afternoon: Darwin Bay (Genovesa Island)
  • In the visit to Darwin Bay, which is the only sandy beach found in the caldera on Genovesa. Colonies of the Great Frigates are found along the beach. Males exhibit their red balloon pouch to females in an effort to attract a mate. Red-footed boobies nest in the trees, in contrast to the other two booby species, which do so on the ground.
  • Activities and Excursions: Walking, Snorkeling, Dinghy Ride, Kayaking / Stand-up paddleboarding
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Meals on board: breakfast, lunch, dinner
DAY 8
SANTA CRUZ ISLAND

Day 8 - Thursday: Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island)

  • Morning: Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz Island)
  • In the morning, you'll explore Black Turtle Cove, located along the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island. This site vividly demonstrates how mangroves shape the marine ecosystem, forming a vibrant and unique habitat. Three different species of mangroves extend from the shore deep into the water, stretching nearly a mile inland. While gliding silently through the calm waters aboard a dinghy, you may spot spotted eagle rays and mustard rays gracefully swimming in formation. Keep an eye out for white-tipped reef sharks gliding beneath the surface and Pacific green sea turtles surfacing to breathe or mate. The area is also a haven for waterfowl, such as pelicans, herons, and egrets, all drawn by the cove's rich feeding grounds.
  • Activities and Excursions: Dinghy ride
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • 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

Book This Tour

Monique Galapagos Luxury Cruise - 7 Nights, Itinerary B (Thursday to Thursday)
Choose Departure and Occupancy
Prices per person
Date
Golden Stateroom
2026 Departures
Thu
1Oct
2026
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,290.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
29Oct
2026
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,290.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
12Nov
2026
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,290.00
Golden Stateroom
2027 Departures
Thu
21Jan
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
8Jul
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
22Jul
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
2Sep
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
30Sep
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
28Oct
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom
Thu
23Dec
2027
Golden Stateroom
Per person
US$ 8,690.00
Golden Stateroom

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 Monique Itinerary B visit?

The 7-night Itinerary B visits Santa Cruz, Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, South Plaza, Santa Fe, Bartolome, Santiago and Genovesa, sailing Thursday to Thursday. See the day-by-day tab for the landing sites and activities on each day.

13 What is included in the M/C Monique 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 Monique 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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