Ecuador and East Galapagos Sea Cruise

Welcome to Quito! Upon arrival at Mariscal Sucre Quito International Airport, you will be met by your private driver and English-speaking assistant and will be driven approximately 1 to 1 and a half hours to the accommodation of your choice. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. 

Today explore Quito with its rich cultural legacy, ornate facades, and dazzling gilt altars. Major attractions include the Basilica del Voto Nacional, the Independence Square, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Government Palace as well as other buildings that are representative of colonial art and architecture. You may wish to visit the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo and the traditional Calle La Ronda, where you will have the opportunity to learn how to play with a spinning yoyo. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the hill of Panecillo or Itchimbia or take a short trip to the north of Quito where the Intinan Museum will guide you through the wonderful world of the Andean Cosmo vision, culture and traditions and you can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere. 

After checking out of your hotel, meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for the approximate 1 to 1-and-a-half-hour transfer to the airport where you will check-in for your flight to the Galapagos. Upon arrival to Baltra, our Aqua Expeditions team will warmly welcome you and guide you on a brief cross-island transfer to the jetty, where you'll step aboard our 50m luxury superyacht, Aqua Mare. Indulge in a delectable lunch and select your snorkeling gear, including mask, fins, snorkel, and optional wetsuit, provided for your personal use throughout the week. As a special welcome gesture, you'll also receive a waterproof bag and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle. The afternoon unfolds with your inaugural excursion to the pristine white sands of Bahia Borrero on Santa Cruz's northern coast, where you may glimpse Darwin's finches nestled in the coastal flora and spot sea turtles, frequent visitors to this nesting haven. Conclude the day with a sumptuous Nikkei-inspired dinner back on board curated by Aqua Expeditions’ world-renowned consultant chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. (L,D) 

Awaken on the opposite side of the equator and venture to Bahía Darwin's captivating coralline beach for hiking and snorkeling. Following a delicious lunch, journey to Genovesa Island, where a tender ride along its volcanic rocks offers glimpses of fur seals nestled within rock crevices. A 1.5 km inland hike leads to lava fields, where you can marvel at red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds, and Galapagos storm petrels. Conclude the day with a family-friendly evening at the lower deck Beach Club, featuring a private movie screening. Choose from the captivating Planet Earth documentary on the Galapagos Islands, the thrilling Master and Commander, or simply bask in the starlit skies from the sun deck. (B,L,D) 

Kickstart your morning with an early workout or guided meditation on the sun deck, followed by a refreshing breakfast. The day's first excursion leads us to Santiago Island, where a dry landing at Bahía Sullivan unveils recent Pahoehoe lava flows. Following a delectable lunch and an enlightening lecture from our knowledgeable naturalist guides aboard Aqua Mare, we set course for Sombrero Chino Island, named after its small crater. Amidst the crystal-clear waters, keep an eye out for sea lions and penguins from above while enjoying snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. After working up an appetite, return to the yacht for evening sundowners and a signature dining experience featuring macambo rice and fish maito. (B,L,D) 

After dropping anchor early in the morning at Bartolomé Island, you'll embark on a gentle climb to reach the summit of a spatter cone, offering a breathtaking view of the island's iconic Pinnacle Rock. Following this, cool off with a snorkeling session where you might encounter sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, before returning to the yacht for lunch as we set sail towards Santa Cruz Island. In the afternoon, our excursion leads us to Cerro Dragón or Dragon Hill, renowned for its healthy population of land iguanas, a rarity on Santa Cruz Island since 1975. Back on board, share stories of your adventure while indulging in the region's finest seafood specialties such as pan-seared scallops and grilled squid. (B,L,D) 

This morning, you'll have the opportunity to explore a Giant Tortoise Reserve, where you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat on the wild Galapagos Islands. The reserve also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with sightings of Darwin’s finches, yellow warblers, flycatchers, cattle egrets, and if you're fortunate, Galapagos Rails. Following a delightful lunch, a visit to the Darwin Station and National Park headquarters awaits, where you can observe tortoises in captivity at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center and witness hatchlings categorized by islands according to their ages. Enjoy some free time to explore the charming town of Puerto Ayora before returning to the ship. Relax with refreshing superfruit juices at our Beach Club, located at water level at the aft of the ship, or soak in the scenic sunset views from the upper deck. Diving enthusiasts have the option of a full day of diving instead of participating in the day excursions. (B,L,D) 

Wake up to a guided meditation session on our upper deck before venturing ashore at Punta Suárez for this morning's excursion. Renowned as one of the most captivating landing sites in the Galapagos Islands, Punta Suárez showcases a remarkable abundance of unique endemic species in its fauna, including Española mockingbirds, lava lizards, marine iguanas, and the distinctive waved albatross. In the afternoon, embark on a tender ride to explore a stunning array of islets, offering the opportunity to snorkel alongside playful sea lions and an array of reef fishes. Conclude the day with a visit to Bahía Gardner, a remarkable coralline sand beach renowned for hosting one of the largest colonies of sea lions in the Galapagos Islands. Back on board the yacht, gather at the bar for Happy Hour and enjoy a glass of our signature Aqua Bloody Mare cocktail as the crew prepares for our departure to our next anchorage. (B,L,D)  

After a night of sailing, your penultimate day brings you to Santa Fé Island, one of the oldest in the Galapagos archipelago, dating back around 3.6 million years. The island's landscape is characterized by its abundant vegetation, including palo santo trees and the Opuntia echios barringtonensis pear cactus, along with various native bushes. Here, you'll encounter land iguanas, lava lizards, mockingbirds, and Darwin’s finches. Following the visit, make the most of your last full day in the Galapagos Islands with activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Enjoy lunch onboard as the boat sails to Plaza Sur Island, situated off the eastern coast of Santa Cruz. In the afternoon, disembark at this small yet diverse islet for a two-hour hiking excursion led by your guide to explore its unique landforms. Conclude the day with a final recap briefing aboard the yacht, sharing experiences and toasting farewell under the archipelago's mesmerizing starlit skies with newfound friends over a glass of wine. (B,L,D)  

Start your final day with a lavish breakfast before saying goodbye to the Aqua Mare crew. Before departing paradise, your last stop is a brief excursion to explore the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where you'll visit the twin craters of Los Gemelos on your way to the airport. This remarkable site is enveloped in lush vegetation, offering a memorable farewell to the Galapagos Islands. As you're escorted to Baltra Island for your departing flight to Guayaquil, you'll carry with you fond memories of this ultimate adventure. Upon arrival to Guayaquil, you will be met by your private driver and English-speaking assistant and driven approximately 30 minutes to your hotel in Guayaquil. (B) 

Embark on a vibrant day in Guayaquil, Ecuador's bustling port city and commercial hub. Begin your morning with a stroll along the Malecon 2000, a picturesque waterfront promenade adorned with gardens, sculptures, and panoramic views of the Guayas River. Dive into the city's rich history and culture with a visit to Las Peñas neighborhood, known for its colorful colonial architecture and artistic flair. Climb the iconic Santa Ana Hill for breathtaking vistas of the cityscape. Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the many waterfront restaurants, savoring local specialties like ceviche or encocado. In the afternoon, explore the historic neighborhood of Cerro del Carmen, home to charming plazas, historic churches, and vibrant street art. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through Parque Seminario, also known as Parque de las Iguanas, where you can encounter the city's famous iguanas lounging in the shade. 

After checking out of your hotel, meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for the approximate 4-hour transfer to your hotel in Cuenca. Enjoy a private city tour or spend the rest of your day exploring the city at your own pace. 

Embark on an enriching day in Cuenca, Ecuador's picturesque colonial city nestled in the Andean highlands. Begin your morning by exploring the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas. Marvel at the majestic Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción and delve into the city's cultural heritage at museums like the Museo del Banco Central or the Museo Pumapungo. Afterward, venture into the breathtaking landscapes of Cajas National Park, just a short drive from the city. Explore its vast network of hiking trails, pristine lakes, and unique Andean flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Andes. Take in panoramic views of the park's rugged terrain and crystalline lakes before returning to Cuenca to savor a traditional Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant. Complete your day with a leisurely stroll along the scenic Tomebamba River or a visit to one of the city's vibrant artisan markets, where you can admire and purchase exquisite handmade crafts. 

Check out of your hotel and meet your private driver and English-speaking assistant for the approximate 30-minute transfer to Mariscal Lamar International Airport where you will check-in for your onward flight.