Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)

7 Days | Explore the untrammelled wilderness of the northern Galapagos Islands

4.9 out of 5 based on 9 reviews submitted.
Adventure Cruising
Wildlife
From
NZD $4,973
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With almost 1000 kilometres of water lying between them and the South American mainland, the islands of the Galapagos were able to evolve largely unfettered by the presence of humanity. The archipelago has captivated explorers for years, and it remains almost as rugged, as remote and as enchanting as ever. Encounter sassy sea lions, hike over hardened lava, and cool off with multiple snorkels in aquamarine waters. This cruise is perfect for those who like their adventures active and action-packed.

Trip overview

Map of Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne) including Ecuador
Start
Quito, Ecuador
Finish
Quito, Ecuador
Theme
Adventure Cruising, Wildlife
Destinations
Ecuador
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Comfort
Ages
Min 12
Group size
Min 1 - Max 16
Trip code
GMDC
We’re in the process of figuring out how much CO2-e this trip generates. In the meantime, find out more about our climate commitments and carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Hike, snorkel, sleep, repeat – this isn’t your average cruise. Get active in the rugged and isolated northern Galapagos Islands.
  • From sunbathing sea lions to colourful crabs, this trip is bound to feature encounters with crazy critters of all shapes and sizes.
  • Wander along the beautiful white sand beach at Bahia Borrero, then snorkel with reef sharks and manta rays..
  • This 7-day tour is a short and sweet introduction to the famed archipelago, the perfect addition to any South American adventure.
  • An itinerary that strikes the perfect balance between excursion-packed days and relaxing evenings on the Grand Daphne, our newest motor yacht.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, The Galapagos Conservancy. Donations support their Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing capital for sustainability initiatives and empowering female entrepreneurs in the Galapagos. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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 this trip 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.
  • For getting to small islets, coves and prime snorkelling spots, it is sometimes necessary to use a Zodiac boat (panga). You will need to be comfortable climbing in and out of one during wet and dry landings.
  • The waters of the Galapagos are generally calm and serene. However, there is always the possibility of choppy water at sea. Steady sea legs (and a sturdy stomach) will be needed when walking around the boat during bad weather. Rain or shine, your trusty crew will always be on hand to assist you.
  • Things are never set in stone when you’re travelling on island time. 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. While the crew will do their best to follow the itinerary, variations may occur due to weather or under direction from local authorities.

Boats

Grand Daphne Boat
Grand Daphne
BOAT TYPE: Yacht • PASSENGERS: 16
Grand Daphne is a brand new ship that started sailing in 2021, making it one of the newest boats on the market.
Explore features

Itinerary

Map of Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne) including Ecuador

Inclusions

Meals

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

Transport

Boat, Plane, Bus, Zodiac (Panga)

Accommodation

Hotel (2 nights), Overnight boat (4 nights)

Activities
  • Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santa Fe - Snorkel (1 hour)
  • Isla Genovesa - Bahia Darwin - Walk (2 hours) Wet Landing
  • Isla Genovesa - La Barranco - Snorkel (1 hour)
  • Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Santa Cruz - Bahia Borrero - Walk (1 hour)
  • Santa Cruz - Bahia Borrero - Snorkel 45minutes - Wet Landing
  • Isla Santiago - Sullivan Bay - Snorkelling (45 mins)
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Cerro Dragon - Walk (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Cerro Dragon - Snorkelling or swimming (1 hour)
  • Isla Santa Cruz - Black Turtle Cove - Panga ride (1.5 hours)

Dates and availability

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Important notes

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$100 national park fee to enter Galapagos National Park.

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 Peregrine 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.

TEMPORARY ITINERARY CHANGE for trips departing in February and March 2024
Due to the confirmed cases of Avian Influenza H5N1 or "bird flu" as its commonly known being reported in the Galapagos Islands a temporary itinerary change will be in place for trips departing in January and February 2024. Please see further information in the "itinerary Disclaimer" section of the Essential trip information for the current itinerary change.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 9 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

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Mina · Traveled January 2024
Absolutely marvelous vacation. The crew members took care of us every step of the way. Meals were well-prepared and with consideration of allergies and preferences. I’m missing this vacation already!
Review submitted 05 Feb 2024

David · Traveled November 2023
Over all Intrepid gets an A+. Besides a booking snag ( which was absolutely address and handled very satisfactory). The adventure was amazing , informative and professional. I will absolutely use Intrepid again
Review submitted 28 Nov 2023

Mary · Traveled November 2023
Review submitted 20 Nov 2023

connor · Traveled September 2023
The Daphne is a fantastic boat with a friendly and knowledgable crew. Despite one of the islands on the itinerary being closed, Intrepid made sure we visited other famous spots. 10/10!
Review submitted 02 Oct 2023

Dorian · Traveled April 2023
Short but sweet! We will be back with Intrepid on the Grand Daphne again. Superb guide, staff, food and accommodations. Beautiful, fascinating destinations well organized.
Review submitted 19 May 2023
Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)
From
NZD $4,973