Introduction

Metropolitan Touring's expedition yachts in the Galapagos offer a unique blend of luxury and adventure, allowing adventurers to discover remote destinations. What makes them so unique? They accommodate a limited number of passengers, ensuring a more personalized experience and allowing travelers to meet exciting people from all over the world. Also, they boast the perfect size to provide all the amenities adventurers look for, such as multiple guides, a doctor on board, the opportunity to enjoy various activities on land or sea -without having to forgo any- and so much more.  

 

Choosing the best ship for your Galapagos adventure can be a pivotal decision. Let's review why expedition vessels are the best option when planning an adventure on these unparalleled islands:   

 

1. MULTIPLE AND MULTILINGUAL GUIDES ABOARD  

Travelers come from all corners of the globe to the Galapagos Islands. Expedition yachts understand this diversity and offer naturalist guides proficient in various languages. On yachts Isabela II or La Pinta, guides are multilingual and know how to handle varied language requirements. As a result, each group receives an outstanding interpretation depending on its needs. With an average ratio of 12 guests per guide, expedition yachts allow for a more personalized and engaging adventure where travelers can interact closely with the guide and other guests.  

 

On the contrary, on a vessel with fewer than three guides aboard, they often repeat information in two or more languages each time they go ashore. Even so, they might need help answering questions while trying to interpret effectively during a tour.  

 

2. DOCTOR ON BOARD   

Having a doctor on board expedition yachts is essential for guests' well-being, safety, and peace of mind. If a traveler feels unwell, a doctor can promptly assess any health issues or symptoms experienced by a passenger. Also, the presence of a doctor ensures that the ship is well-stocked with medications and medical supplies. And they can oversee first aid training for crew members, ensuring that everybody is prepared to handle medical emergencies.  

 

Knowing that a qualified MD is on board gives travelers an invaluable sense of security. Guests can explore remote and pristine destinations knowing they're near professional medical assistance if needed. This peace of mind lets all travelers fully immerse themselves in the adventure without worrying about what-ifs.  

 

3. ACTIVITY ENVIRONMENTS  

La Pinta and Isabela II are a ticket to discovering the extraordinary flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands. However, multiple guides are needed on the visit sites to enjoy them all. Otherwise, guests must choose between activities. For instance, in a single-guided boat, a traveler might have to choose between snorkeling, kayaking, or enjoying a glass-bottom boat ride.  

 

The Galapagos Islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the unique animals you can observe. Sea adventures are a must on an expedition yacht. The surrounding waters of the Galapagos are teeming with marine life, offering many underwater activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and glass-bottom boat rides.   

 

4. STABILITY AND SMOOTH SAILING  

Expedition yachts understand stability, especially when navigating unpredictable tropical waters. A yacht's stability is not just a feature. It's a fundamental contributor to a voyage that is not only smoother but significantly more pleasurable and enjoyable for every guest.  

Contrary to general belief, the Galapagos sea is sometimes calmer than it appears on postcards. Therefore, not all vessels are designed and equipped to handle the unpredictable nature of the sea. As a result, only certain yachts are crafted to ensure stability, mitigating the impact of the ocean's movements for a smoother and safer voyage. In this sense, single-guided boats face challenges when sailing between islands.  

 

For many travelers, the sensation of sea movement can lead to dizziness and discomfort, hampering the enjoyment of the journey. Expedition vessels consider this by offering stability that helps to minimize these unpleasant side effects. This ensures that passengers can focus on enjoying the cruise and the breathtaking surroundings without any distractions.  

 

5. YACHT'S CAPACITY  

Expedition yachts are designed to create an intimate and welcoming environment for travelers. With a typical passenger count of around 40 people and a maximum capacity of 50 guests, they ensure privacy and a personalized experience.  

  

Start

Day

Accommodation

Type

Destination

Duration

Basis

Start

Day 1

day 0

Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel   Quito

2 nights

B&B

Day 1

Day 3

day 2

Yacht La Pinta    

4 nights

FB+

Day 3

Day 4

day 3

Edén Islet

day stop

Santa Cruz Island

day

 

Day 4

Day 4

day 3

Chinese Hat

day stop

Chinese Hat

day

 

Day 4

Day 5

day 4

Bartolome Island

day stop

Bartolome Island

day

 

Day 5

Day 5

day 4

Bahía Sullivan

day stop

Santiago Island

day

 

Day 5

Day 6

day 5

Prince Philip's Steps

day stop

Genovesa Island

day

 

Day 6

Day 6

day 5

Darwin Bay

day stop

Darwin Bay

day

 

Day 6

Key

B&B: Bed and Breakfast

FB+: Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities

Quito: Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel

Yacht La Pinta

Yacht La Pinta Yacht La Pinta Yacht La Pinta

Fast Facts

7 Days / 6 Nights

0 guest

Travellers

Price

Based on double/ twin accommodations at hotel and vessel 

Starting price: 

2025 early bird 2026

  • From US$7280  per person
  • We have special offers per group. 

All rates are subject to change without prior notice. 

*Based on 4 nights cruise expeditions: Yacht La Pinta.

*Applies for the following cabin categories:

  • La Pinta: luxury double / twin cabin

** Additional fees may need to be added for Peak season dates (Christmas and New Year departures)

Includes:

Casa Gangotena: 

* Welcome drink

* Breakfast

* Unlimited Wifi

 

La Pinta: 

Air transportation to/from Galapagos  (subject to change without previous notice)

Accommodations, all meals, soft drinks*, island sightseeing, naturalist guides and lecture services in English/Spanish only, wet suit rental, snorkelling gear, internet*, luggage handling, medical care on board (but not the cost of medication), taxes and transfers in the islands.

Shared transfers from main hotels in Quito (Casa Gangotena, Hilton Colon, Mercure, Dann Carlton, JW Marriot; for Casa Gangotena, a further feeder service is provided to/from Hilton Colón, this service does not have additional cost.) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Wyndham) to airport for flights to / from Galapagos are included in these rates.  To coordinate these transfers we must have guest's hotel contact.

* Please note: soft drinks are considered juices and carbonated drinks, not “virgin” cocktails; internet connections onboard consist of 2 computer stations in the library and Wi-Fi in the yacht’s social areas; due to the Galapagos’ remote location, internet connections are intermittent and low-bandwidth. 

Excludes:

Casa Gangotena: 

  • Activities. 
  • Meals. 

La pinta: 

  • Galapagos National Park entrance fee (US$ 200 subject to change without previous notice)*
  •  Migration Control Card (US$ 20 subject to change without previous notice)*
  • Fuel surcharges
  •  Alcoholic beverages**, gratuities, gifts, laundry or valet services, and additional items.
  • International flights

Quito: Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel

Yacht La Pinta

Yacht La Pinta Yacht La Pinta Yacht La Pinta
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