Ecuador and West 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 your airport arrival, our team will greet you and accompany you on a cross-island van and ferry journey, approximately 1.5 hours, to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Along the way, relish a delightful outdoor lunch at a Giant Tortoise Reserve, followed by your inaugural excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz. A warm welcome awaits aboard Aqua Mare, the Galapagos Islands’ premier 50m luxury superyacht, manned by our attentive 16-strong crew, ensuring a personalized experience with our exceptional 1:1 crew to guest ratio. As a welcome gesture, you'll receive a special waterproof bag for wet landings and an Aqua Expeditions water bottle. In the evening, enjoy leisure time to explore Puerto Ayora's main town, perhaps strolling along the waterfront with its array of boutiques and jewelry shops, before returning to the ship for an evening of informative lectures and inspiration for the following day, followed by your inaugural taste of fresh seafood dining in the Galapagos Islands. (L,D) 

For your second morning in the Galapagos Islands, we'll anchor in the southern region at Floreana Island. Following breakfast, the morning excursion will entail a wet landing, leading to a large brackish water lagoon at Punta Cormorant, where you can observe greater flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts, and other shorebirds. Keep an eye out for sea turtles nesting at night and the possibility of spotting stingrays and sharks swimming close to the shore. After a delicious lunch featuring fresh Ecuadorian dishes with an Andean twist, return to Floreana to partake in the longstanding island tradition at Bahía Post Office. This visit will be followed by a brief tour of a former fishing enterprise from the 1920s before heading out on the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa. Upon your return to Aqua Mare, indulge in another culinary delight, blending Japanese technique with Peruvian seasoning, including delicacies like tuna tartare and quinoa yakimeshi. Spend the evening on the upper deck with a cocktail, gazing at the starlit skies of both the northern and southern hemispheres. (B,L,D)  

Following a night of sailing, our exquisite superyacht finds anchor on the western coast of Isabela Island. Renowned as the largest and youngest island in the Archipelago, Isabela boasts five relatively youthful volcanoes and is renowned for its population of giant tortoises and marine iguanas. For the morning's expedition, we embark on a hike at Punta Moreno, traversing mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks formed by a significant basaltic lava flow originating from Isabela's Cerro Azul volcano centuries ago. Along the shore, mangrove lagoons await, offering a dinghy ride to observe marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins among other species. In the afternoon, Aqua Mare sets sail northward to Bahía Urbina, a 6km² point submerged until 1954, now elevated up to 3m above sea level. Here, encounters with land iguanas and some of the largest marine iguanas in the Archipelago await, with occasional sightings of tortoises. Concluding the day, relish an unforgettable vista of Isabela's five volcanoes while savoring a dinner of macambo rice, fish maito, and candied pear under the celestial canopy. (B,L,D)  

Begin your morning early with a workout session on our sun deck as we anchor at Punta Espinoza, a site formed from a vast lava flow originating from La Cumbre volcano, renowned as one of the world's most active volcanoes. This region is famed for its abundant colonies of marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and lizards, with possible sightings of Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, and snakes. Spend the morning exploring the shore, with the option to indulge in snorkeling before returning to the yacht for a delectable lunch. As Aqua Mare navigates back towards Isabela Island through the Bolivar Channel, gear up for an afternoon adventure at Caleta Tagus, once frequented by pirates and whalers. Here, a hike to Darwin Lake awaits, nestled within a tuff cone. Alternatively, opt for kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, or a ride on our stylish black tenders to explore the cove and its environs. Conclude the day with evening sundowners before joining the captain on the bridge after dinner, as we cross the equatorial line twice, adding a unique touch to your Galapagos experience. (B,L,D)  

This morning, we embark on a tender ride to Caleta Bucanero, a historic 17th-century haven for pirates who would resupply with fresh tortoise meat and water. Alternatively, if sea conditions are unfavorable, we'll explore Playa Espumilla, a renowned nesting site for sea turtles with its golden sandy beaches. Returning to the yacht for lunch, we savor flavors of the South American Pacific coast with specially crafted dishes like linguine ai frutti di mare. Afterwards, we disembark at Puerto Egas, situated on the black sand beaches of northwest Santiago Island. Here, you can stroll along the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or opt for snorkeling to observe sea turtles, sea lions, and white-tipped sharks. Wrap up the day with Happy Hour onboard, enjoying our signature Aqua Bloody Mare cocktail as the crew prepares for our next adventure. (B,L,D)  

Start your day to the harmonies of nature and a delectable breakfast before setting off via tender to Rábida Island, famously dubbed the "red island" due to the striking coloration resulting from the oxidation of ancient porous lava. Here, you'll have the opportunity to hike, explore in one of our double kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, or delve into the underwater world through snorkeling. Don't miss the chance to observe the resident sea lions lounging on the beach. Following a satisfying lunch, immerse yourself in an afternoon lecture led by our knowledgeable guides in the panoramic lounge. Later, Aqua Mare will navigate towards the northern reaches of Santa Cruz Island, arriving at Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary teeming with sea turtles. Although there's no landing site, a tender ride excursion offers glimpses of green sea turtles, as well as blacktip and Galapagos sharks. Conclude this splendid day by savoring more of our renowned cuisine, courtesy of Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. (B,L,D)   

Begin your penultimate day in the Archipelago with a revitalizing breakfast before venturing out to Seymour Norte Island, shaped by volcanic eruptions beneath the ocean's surface around 3.1 million years ago. Renowned for its thriving population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigate birds, the island promises a morning filled with captivating activities. Following the morning exploration, return to Aqua Mare for a delectable lunch onboard. In the afternoon, embark on one of our tenders for a wet landing on Mosquera Island, one of the smallest yet significant spots in the archipelago for observing sea lions. As the sun sets, retreat to the elegant comfort of Aqua Mare for your final evening onboard. Share tales of your remarkable adventures with fellow travelers and raise a toast to bid farewell, choosing something special from our carefully curated wine selection. (B,L,D)  

Commence the final day with a lavish breakfast, accompanied by the serene sunrise vistas aboard Aqua Mare. Take in the breathtaking scenery before our journey concludes at Baltra Island for disembarkation. Say your farewells to the crew and the magnificent vessel that has been your home for the past week. As you're escorted to the airport for your departing flight to Guayaquil, you'll carry with you cherished memories to last a lifetime. 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.