Galapagos Adventure: Northern Islands (Grand Daphne)

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

4.9 out of 5 based on 8 reviews submitted.
Adventure Cruising
Sailing
Wildlife
From
USD $4,217
View dates and book

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, Sailing, 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 15
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 Le Grande Daphne, our brand-new motor yacht.

Is this trip right for you?
  • The Galapagos Islands are a largely untouched natural paradise. In order to experience the splendour of the diverse landscapes and waters, the included activities on this trip often require a moderate level of fitness. We ask that you read the trip notes and itinerary carefully to ensure that you will be able to participate fully.
  • Our small ships make cruising from island to island a breeze, so you can spend more time exploring the gorgeous surrounds than stuck onboard. Compact size means that the steps between the decks are steep, and as they are designed to maximise living area space, sleeping quarters are cosy.
  • 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, 4 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

Loading trip dates and availabilities...

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.

MINIMUM AGE:
The minimum age on this trip is 15. Please note that triple cabins are not available. If travelling with a child, the child will need to share with one of the adults, and the other adult will share with another adult passenger, or pay a single supplement.

SEA SICKNESS- GALAPAGOS:
Please note that from June to August the water is rougher than usual. Consequently travel times will be longer than usual. If you suffer from seasickness you may want to reconsider travelling during this period.

DIVING IN THE GALAPAGOS:
We do not offer diving as a part of our Galapagos program and due to our internal safety policy our leaders are specifically prohibited from recommending or assisting with booking this activity.

TEMPORARY ITINERARY CHANGE for 3rd of November 2023 and 17th of November 2023 departures.
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 the 3rd of November 2023 and 17th of November 2023 departures. 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 8 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.

Filter by rating

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

Wladyslaw · Traveled April 2023
Excellent and memorable trip
Review submitted 03 May 2023

Dorian · Traveled April 2023
Our Galapagos trip was delightful! Of course, the animals were marvellous but so were guide Jacinto and the Grand Daphne and crew! Bravo to all!
Review submitted 09 May 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
USD $4,217