A seven-day expedition aboard Yacht Isabela II that visits southeastern and western Galápagos islands — daily landings, snorkeling, and guided walks reveal giant tortoises, waved albatrosses, penguins, and dramatic lava landscapes. Practical, wildlife-focused cruising for travelers with moderate fitness.
A seven-day expedition aboard Yacht Isabela II that visits southeastern and western Galápagos islands — daily landings, snorkeling, and guided walks reveal giant tortoises, waved albatrosses, penguins, and dramatic lava landscapes. Practical, wildlife-focused cruising for travelers with moderate fitness.
The yacht slips away from Baltra as a warm, saline breeze pushes across the foredeck and the first black rocks of the archipelago recede into small, wind-scoured silhouettes. By morning you’re stepping from a panga onto coral sand with blue-footed boobies watching every move and frigatebirds sculpting the sky — this is a trip paced by tides, wildlife, and volcanic stone.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Metropolitan Touring · Puerto Ayora, Galápagos
The yacht slips away from Baltra as a warm, saline breeze pushes across the foredeck and the first black rocks of the archipelago recede into small, wind-scoured silhouettes. By morning you’re stepping from a panga onto coral sand with blue-footed boobies watching every move and frigatebirds sculpting the sky — this is a trip paced by tides, wildlife, and volcanic stone.
Geology here is recent and loud: shield volcanoes and pahoehoe flows shape beaches, green olivine sands, and jagged lava benches. Human history in the Galápagos is brief but storied — whalers, scientific voyages and odd colonial footnotes like Post Office Bay leave small cultural markers amid nature’s dominance. Local guides, typically certified naturalists, interpret island endemics and the fragile ecological rules that govern them.
Expect daily shore landings, short hikes over lava and scrub, panga rides through mangrove mouths, and repeated snorkeling sessions in clear, cool currents. Wildlife encounters are up-close and unhurried: giant tortoises at Cerro Colorado, waved albatrosses on Española, and the rare flightless cormorant on Fernandina.
Practical edge: pack reef-safe sunscreen, a snug snorkel mask, and sturdy water shoes — zodiacs and rocky shores demand confident footing. Sea conditions vary; mornings are often calmest for snorkeling and zodiac trips. Follow your naturalist’s briefing on biosecurity (no outside soil, fruits or seeds) and keep a respectful distance from wildlife — the islands’ rules protect both animals and future visitors. Bring a small dry bag, keep cameras at the ready, and let the currents and expert crew carry you between remarkable shores.
No — most underwater activities on this cruise are snorkeling; scuba is not required and diving is not included in the standard itinerary.
Typical Galápagos limits are strict: roughly 23 kg checked and 8 kg carry-on per passenger; airlines enforce these limits — pack light and check with your agent.
Most meals aboard the yacht are included (daily breakfast, lunch and dinner); specialty beverages and certain services like boutique purchases may be extra.
Yes — landings and order can change due to weather, park regulations, or operational reasons; your naturalist will provide updates and alternatives if needed.
Metropolitan Touring operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The yacht slips away from Baltra as a warm, saline breeze pushes across the foredeck and the first black rocks of the archipelago recede into small, wind-scoured silhouettes. By morning you’re stepping from a panga onto coral sand with blue-footed boobies watching every move and frigatebirds sculpting the sky — this is a trip paced by tides, wildlife, and volcanic stone.
The yacht slips away from Baltra as a warm, saline breeze pushes across the foredeck and the first black rocks of the archipelago recede into small, wind-scoured silhouettes. By morning you’re stepping from a panga onto coral sand with blue-footed boobies watching every move and frigatebirds sculpting the sky — this is a trip paced by tides, wildlife, and volcanic stone.
Geology here is recent and loud: shield volcanoes and pahoehoe flows shape beaches, green olivine sands, and jagged lava benches. Human history in the Galápagos is brief but storied — whalers, scientific voyages and odd colonial footnotes like Post Office Bay leave small cultural markers amid nature’s dominance. Local guides, typically certified naturalists, interpret island endemics and the fragile ecological rules that govern them.
Expect daily shore landings, short hikes over lava and scrub, panga rides through mangrove mouths, and repeated snorkeling sessions in clear, cool currents. Wildlife encounters are up-close and unhurried: giant tortoises at Cerro Colorado, waved albatrosses on Española, and the rare flightless cormorant on Fernandina.
Practical edge: pack reef-safe sunscreen, a snug snorkel mask, and sturdy water shoes — zodiacs and rocky shores demand confident footing. Sea conditions vary; mornings are often calmest for snorkeling and zodiac trips. Follow your naturalist’s briefing on biosecurity (no outside soil, fruits or seeds) and keep a respectful distance from wildlife — the islands’ rules protect both animals and future visitors. Bring a small dry bag, keep cameras at the ready, and let the currents and expert crew carry you between remarkable shores.