Galapagos Encounter: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

Galapagos Encounter: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

310 Views
6 Days From

$4360

$3739

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

See the natural beauty of the Galapagos on a sailing voyage that takes in the very best of the central islands. Discover heaps of local wildlife like sea lions, iguanas, giant tortoises and exotic birds of all shapes and sizes. Go snorkelling in the presence of mighty manta rays, turtles and tropical fish. Experience the natural, rugged landscapes of the Galapagos firsthand and see what Charles Darwin saw when he arrived on the isles more than 180 years ago and began formulating the theory of evolution. With each day spent hiking, swimming and snorkelling, this active sailing adventure is one for the nature-lover! ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Wake up to a new view each day in the comfort of the mighty M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz – this comfortable and spacious motor yacht is your home for the adventure!

  • Encounter giant Galapagos tortoises, blue-footed and masked boobies, pelicans and frigate birds, as well as land and marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals and maybe even dolphins, whales and sea turtles.

  • Experience the contrasting landscapes of unique islands – from the sandy Espumilla Beach to the volcanic formation of Pinnacle Rock, you’ll see the diversity of the Galapagos that Charles Darwin once saw.

  • Hike on Bartolome for panoramic views across the island, so you can see the dramatic volcanic landscape from a bird’s eye view.

  • See sea lions and iguanas at Plaza Sur and Santa Fe, then in San Cristobal, meet the grand-daddy of the Galapagos – the giant tortoise.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Quito

Location: Quito

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Your adventure begins in Quito – Ecuador’s sprawling capital city. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 5 or 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and small group of fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe check out the city at your own pace – head to the Old Town and pick one (or more) of the 30 churches to explore. After your meeting, you’ll head to a small, local restaurant for dinner with your group. Take in the aromas and fresh flavours of the traditional Ecuadorian cuisine – think locroc (traditional potato soup) or quinoa, pork and vegetable dishes cooked with herbs, lemongrass and rich sauces, all sourced from local farms. ...more ...less

Day 2: Quito - Isla San Cristobal

Location: Quito - Isla San Cristobal

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Accommodation Name: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You have a very early start this morning (maybe as early as 4 am, depending on flight times) as you head into the Galapagos. Transfer to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito Airport), with a boxed breakfast on the way. When you arrive, you’ll meet your naturalist guide in the arrival hall. Transfer to your home for the next week – the M/Y Queen Beatriz. Once on board, settle in and then have lunch with your group. After, travel to the highlands of Isla San Cristobal to the site of Galapaguera of Cerro Colorado (Red Hill). This is where the national park has established a breeding program and information centre for tortoises. Here, you can see giant tortoises and learn all about their origin, evolution and their threatened future.

Included Activities:
-Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

Day 3: Bartolome - Bahia Sullivan

Location: Bartolome - Bahia Sullivan

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Accommodation Name: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Bartolome is one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the Galapagos, full of parasitic spatter cones, lava flows, Galapagos penguins and lava lizards. It’s a relatively new island in the archipelago and traces of its volcanic past can be seen everywhere across the lunar-like landscape. Visit Pinnacle Rock – one of the most photographed sites in the Galapagos, this abrupt jag of rock protrudes from the earth like a tooth, close to two golden bays that back onto each other. You can hike to the top of a once-active volcano here (360 wooden steps) for views across to Sullivan Bay, on nearby Santiago Island. If you’re in luck, you might catch a glance of the Galapagos hawk. You also have the option to go snorkelling with plenty of tropical fish, starfish, white-tipped reef sharks, rays and, hopefully, penguins. This afternoon, sail to Bahia Sullivan (also known as James Island). Walk on Pahoe-Hoe lava from an eruption that occurred in 1897 and listen as your guide explains the geological history of the islands. Look out for marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions, finches, turtles, sharks and penguins.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
-Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
-Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)

Day 4: Isla Santiago - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas

Location: Isla Santiago - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas

Accommodation: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Accommodation Name: M/Y Grand Queen Beatriz

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Espumilla Beach, on the northern coast of Isla Santiago, is an important nesting site for marine turtles. With large waves, it’s also often a favourite among beach lovers. Here, you might see Galapagos hawks up close as well as ghost crabs, blue-footed boobies (often plunging for fish) and brown pelicans. The area is also well known for its Palo Santo forest and lava formations. Visit Caleta Bucanero (Buccaneer Cove) – a natural monument of rocks caused by sea erosion. This cove was used by pirates to careen their ships and is a place of local legends and stories! It’s also where Darwin camped for nine days while making his study of the islands and their wildlife. If conditions are favourable, you can go snorkelling here. Later, sail to Puerto Egas – the black-sand beach on the west side of the bay near Sugarloaf Volcano. This site is named after Hector Egas who last attempted to mine salt here. The walk along the beach offers hundreds of marine iguanas and Galapagos sea lions. You’ll also see amazing tidal pools formed from ancient lava flow, home to sponges, snails, hermit crabs, barnacles and fish.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
-Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
-Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Panga ride or Snorkelling (45 mins)
-Isla Sanitago - Buccaneer's Cove - Panga Ride (45 mins)

Day 5: Isla Santa Cruz - Quito.

Location: Isla Santa Cruz - Quito.

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Flights to the mainland depart mid-morning, so an early start is necessary today to make the most of your last day on the islands. You’ll wake up in Isla Santa Cruz and heads to the small town of Puerto Ayora – the economic centre of the archipelago and home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. As well as undertaking vital conservation work, the station also makes for interesting exploration and offers an opportunity to see giant tortoises. You may also be able to observe the baby tortoises and land iguanas! After your visit, head to the airport for your flight back to Quito. Tonight, you may like to head out with your group for a farewell dinner and toast to an excellent adventure.

Included Activities:
-Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

Day 6: Quito

Location: Quito

Meals Included: Breakfast

There are no activities planned for today, and your adventure finishes after breakfast this morning. Of course, that doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! Why not stay on in Quito for a few days and discover the charms of the city. If you need help booking extra accommodation, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (2 nights), Overnight boat (3 nights)

  • Meals
    5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

  • Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing

  • Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)

  • Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)

  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing

  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)

  • Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Panga ride or Snorkelling (45 mins)

  • Isla Sanitago - Buccaneer's Cove - Panga Ride (45 mins)

  • Isla Santa Cruz - Charles Darwin Research Station (1 hour) - Dry Landing

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

Included Activities

  • Isla San Cristobal - Highlands Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Bartolome - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Bartolome - Snorkelling (1.5 hours)
  • Isla Bartolome - Panga ride (30 mins)
  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Walk (1.45 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santiago - Puerto Egas - Snorkelling (1 hour)
  • Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Snorkelling (45 mins)
  • Isla Sanitago - Espumilla Beach - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (3 hours) - Dry Landing

Transport

  • The Grand Queen Beatriz is a modern motor yacht. She has a comfortable lounge and dining area, a jacuzzi as well as a sun deck where you can view the wildlife or just kick back and relax. She has eight well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins and yet, at 41 metres, she is small enough for us to offer an individual level of service. She's just perfect for a more personal look at this great marine reserve.
  • Cabins:
  • 4xStandard twin cabins
  • 2xJunior Suite cabins
  • 2xDeluxe Balcony cabins
  • All cabins are fully air-conditioned with private facilities
  • Specifications:
  • Built: 2017
  • Length: 40.96 m
  • Beam: 9 m
  • Engines: 2
  • Speed: 12 knots
  • Passengers: 16
  • Crew: 8 + 1 English speaking naturalist guide
  • Zodiacs (locally known as pangas) are modest-sized, open, outboard-powered boats which are very common throughout Galapagos. The boats are used to get you to and from the Grand Queen Bea when you do activities. Depending on the type of activity, this could either be a wet or dry landing. The boat crew are there to assist you getting into and out of the zodiac.

Accommodation

  • The stylish modern design of the Grand Queen Beatriz features large en suite cabins all with individual air conditioning and ocean views. There are 4 Standard twin cabins on the main deck and on the upper deck there are 2 Junior Suite cabins  and 2 deluxe balcony cabins. The upper deck cabins all have private balconies. All cabins are equipped with a safety deposit box, hair dryers and toiletries.

Important Information

  • GALAPAGOS PARK, TRANSIT CARD & ISABELA ISLANDS PORT FEES:
  • Before checking in for the flight from Quito to the Galapagos, there is a US$20 transit fee that needs to be paid. On arrival in the islands you must pay the US$200 national park fee to enter Galapagos National Park. This applies to everyone aged 13 years and above. For children aged 12 the fee will be USD100.
  • If your voyage visits Isabela Island, there is also a US$10 fee to be paid on arrival at the island.
  • ARRIVAL TRANSFER:
  • This tour includes a complimentary arrival transfer in Quito. Please advise flight details 30 days prior to travel so that the transfer can be organised.
  • PASSPORT DETAILS:
  • When booking, please make sure that your name is spelt correctly, and that you book using the name in your passport (particularly if you are recently married). If you are issued a new passport with a different number between the time that you book and the time you travel, please take both the old and new passports with you.
  • DIETARY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Should you have a special diet requirement (for example vegetarian, celiac, vegan, severe food allergies) it's essential that you inform us or your agent of the specific details at least 10 days prior to departure, in order to make sure the chef on board the boat or on the island can request the necessary food supplies.

Mode of Transport

  • The Grand Queen Beatriz is a modern motor yacht. She has a comfortable lounge and dining area, a jacuzzi* as well as a sun deck where you can view the wildlife or just kick back and relax. She has eight well-appointed, air-conditioned cabins and yet, at 41 metres, she is small enough for us to offer an individual level of service. She's just perfect for a more personal look at this great marine reserve.
  • Cabins:
  • 2xStandard twin cabins
  • 2xstandard double cabins
  • 2xJunior Suite cabins (1 twin & 1 double)
  • 2xDeluxe Balcony cabins (1 twin & 1 double)
  • All cabins are fully air-conditioned with private facilities
  • Specifications:
  • Built: 2017
  • Length: 40.96 m
  • Beam: 9 m
  • Engines: 2
  • Speed: 12 knots
  • Passengers: 16
  • Crew: 8 + 1 English speaking naturalist guide
  • Zodiacs (locally known as pangas) are modest-sized, open, outboard-powered boats which are very common throughout Galapagos. The boats are used to get you to and from the Grand Queen Bea when you do activities. Depending on the type of activity, this could either be a wet or dry landing. The boat crew are there to assist you getting into and out of the zodiac.
  • *Please note the jacuzzi can only be used when the boat is stationary. This will be while you are doing an activity or excursion and pre and post some meals (if you’ve decided to sit out an activity or excursion you will also be able to use the jacuzzi). If you wish to use the jacuzzi please speak to the Guide or a crew member who will organise for it to be filled and switched on. At no time should a passenger use or fill the jacuzzi without notifying a crew member. Before the boat weighs anchor the jacuzzi will be emptied to prevent spillage once the boat is underway

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip involves lots of active adventure, and we ask that you read through the itinerary carefully to ensure that it is right for you. You’ll need to feel comfortable with the included activities and with moving about the boat. The cabins and communal areas of the boat are spread over three decks, and the steps between the decks are steep.

    You will enter and exit a Zodiac boat (panga) during wet and dry landings and when returning from snorkelling. Although the waters we sail are usually calm, there are times when the sea can get rough and choppy. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) are needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.

    While at sea and exploring the islands, you may be exposed to the sun for large parts of the day. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water.

    Please note that while there is an itinerary in place, some changes may occur due to the weather or because of directions from the local authorities. This can happen with little notice, so please be prepared for potential modifications to the route or activities. A sense of humour and flexibility will ensure you have a fun, relaxing trip through this beautiful part of the world, no matter what happens.
    ...more ...less

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍 ...more ...less

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon! ...more ...less

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic. ...more ...less

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong ...more ...less

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X ...more ...less

Nicole  

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12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure! ...more ...less

Declan Curry (Google Reviewer)  

I have recently completed the...

07-Feb-2025

I have recently completed the Premium India In Depth tour. A most wonderful introduction to this amazing continent. From the Taj Mahal to Tigers 🐅 in the wild , dining whe the locals eat and a couple of meals with families was a great way to embrace the people and their culture. Magnificent architecture,be it Forts or Shrines. The most informative and inspiring of guides was great to have with us. Mumbai to Delhi and 6 more cities plus A Safari included. Best trip to experience India 🇮🇳. Prepare to have all your senses assaulted . Go for it. ...more ...less

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best. ...more ...less

Lisa Hosking (Google Reviewer)  

Just got back from Southern...

06-Feb-2025

Just got back from Southern India and I have to say our guide was great! Greeted by Sebi’s lovely smile each morning. His knowledge was great and his interpersonal skills were amazing! Managed the group well and took great care of us all! Thank you!

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Thursday

Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 06, 2025
$4360 $3739 (USD)

Operator discount: -$621 (USD)

Saturday - Thursday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 03, 2025
$4360 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Galapagos Encounter: Central Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)

6 Days Starting and ending in Quito

Visiting: Quito, Quito - Isla San Cristobal, Bartolome - Bahia Sullivan, Isla Santiago - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas, Isla Santa Cruz - Quito. ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

GMQI

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

12-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Expedition Cruising

From: $4360 $3739 (USD) Operator discount: -$621 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 19-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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