At a Glance
Embark on a lifetime superyacht expedition through the East Galapagos onboard the Aqua Mare. Catering to a maximum of just 16 guests, immerse in complete luxury and exclusivity found nowhere else in the region. Create up close adventures with epic wildlife and the natural wonder found nowhere else on Earth on this 8-day river cruise within the exotic Galapagos Islands, sailing from Santa Cruz Island to Baltra Island.
Departing from Baltra Island, embark on a short cross-island transfer to the jetty, where you’ll step onboard your 50m luxury superyacht and set sail. Explore the beautiful white beach of Bahia Borrero, home to Darwin, Cactus, and Small Ground Finches all nestled in the coastal vegetation. Snorkel in the pristine waters and encounter sea turtles. Sail along the volcanic rocks of El Barranco ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals while on board.
- Premium-selected wines and beer, non-alcoholic drinks
- Excursions with knowledgeable local guides
- 7 nights on board the luxurious Aqua Mare cruise ship in one of 7 opulent, large, sea-facing Zuretti-designed suites including an 80 sq m owner’s suite (housing up to 4 guests) on a twin share basis.
- Group transfers between vessel and meeting point
- Laundry
Itinerary
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Arriving at the airport, you are welcomed by our team and escorted on a cross-island van and ferry ride (approx. 1.5 hours) to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. On our way to our destination, enjoy a delicious outdoor lunch at a Giant Tortoise Reserve, afterwards head out on your first excursion to the highlands of Santa Cruz. Reaching our destination, you are warmly welcomed aboard the Aqua Mare, the Galapagos Island’s first 50m luxury superyacht with a 16-strong crew where you are treated as royalty with the utmost attention courtesy of our 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. In the evening, you are free to explore the main town of Puerto Ayora at your own pace and setting. Wander along the main waterfront, stopping by the many boutiques and jewellery shops for souvenirs of this journey. Head back to the ship for an evening lecture and inspiration for the next day, and delight in your first authentic seafood dining in the Galapagos Islands. |
Aqua Mare
Lunch, Dinner |
Begin today with a hearty breakfast as we anchor in the southern part of the Archipelago at Floreana Island. Take part in a morning wet landing excursion to Punta Cormorant, a big brackish water lagoon. Relish the delicate and alluring sights of the greater flamingos, ducks, black-necked stilts, and other shore birds. Discover the resting sites of sea turtles, and spot stingrays and sharks swimming very close to the shore. Refuel with a sumptuous lunch consisting of fresh Ecuadorian recipes with an Andean twist, afterwards pay your tribute with a visit to an old island tradition at Bahia Post Office in Floreana. You’ll then venture on a tour of what once was a fishing enterprise in the 1920s before continuing onboard the tenders to visit Mirador de la Baronesa. Done exploring for the day, return onboard the luxurious Aqua Mare where another feast showcasing perfectly blended Japanese technique and Peruvian seasoning through delight including tuna tartare and quinoa yakimeshi. Revel in the mesmerising northern and southern hemispheres’ starlit skies tonight as you relax with a cocktail out on the upper deck. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Sailing all through the night, wake up to the unspoiled and sensational views of Isabela Island. Known as the biggest and youngest island in the Archipelago, Isabela was formed by five relatively young volcanoes and is characterised by giant tortoises and marine iguanas. The morning hike at Punta Moreno takes us to the mangroves and gas-rich basaltic lava rocks formed from a large basaltic lava flow that came from the Cerro Azul volcano on Isabela hundreds of years ago. Go on a dinghy ride along the shore of mangrove lagoons, and stumble upon marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and penguins among other species. In the afternoon, set sail on the Aqua Mare north to Bahia Urbina, and discover land iguanas, some of the biggest marine iguanas roaming free in the Archipelago, and tortoises as well. Bring an end to a spectacular day with a luscious and mouth watering dinner of macambo rice, fish maito, and candied pear beneath the stars while soaking in the breathtaking sights of Isabela’s five volcanoes. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Begin the day with a morning workout on our sun deck at our next anchorage point of Punta Espinoza, part of a huge lava flow formed from one of the many eruptions of the Lu Cumbre volcano. Famous for its large colonies of marine iguanas the region is also blessed with Galapagos penguins, Galapagos hawks, as well as snakes. Spend the rest of the morning on shore or snorkelling before returning to the yacht for a sumptuous lunch. Heading back towards Isabela Island, unleash your inner pirate as we go on an afternoon excursion to Caleta Tagus, a former favourite anchorage spot for pirates and whalers. Continue to Darwin Lake, a saltwater lake trapped inside a tuff cone. Or better still, pick from our four double kayaks, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, or a ride on our elegant black tenders to explore the cove and its surroundings. Finished with today's adventure, return to the yacht for some relaxation and dinner, thereafter head to the bridge for a chat with our captain as we cross the equatorial line twice. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
This morning sees us taking a tender ride to Caleta Bucanero, a 17th-century pirate rest stop where pirates used to stock up on fresh tortoise meat and fresh water. Should the weather be unfavourable for this activity, we will be taking a trip to Playa Espumilla instead, a golden sandy beach that is a well-known breeding ground for sea turtles. Head back onboard the magnificent yacht for a moreish lunch encompassing flavours of the South American Pacific coast through specially prepared dishes like the linguine ai Frutti di mare. Done with lunch, disembark on the black sand beaches of Puerto Egas, northwest of Santiago Island. Take a walk on the intertidal zone to the fur seal grottos or snorkel to watch sea turtles, sea lions, and white-tipped sharks. Relax and unwind over a glass of our special Aqua Bloody Mare during happy hour while the crew prepares for the next phase of our adventure. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Wake up to the sights and sounds of nature and have a fresh breakfast before leaving for Rabida Island, also known as the Red Island. Named so because of its red color which is a result of the oxidation of very old porous lava. Go hiking, snorkel, take out one of our eight double kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards, or relish the stunning sights of hundreds of sea lions who have made their home on the beach. There is also a morning rendezvous diving option available. Treat your taste buds to a yummy lunch this afternoon, and take part in an afternoon lecture presented by our expert guides in the panoramic lounge. Embark on an excursion as the Aqua Mare sail towards the north of Santa Cruz Island, to Caleta Tortuga Negra, a mangrove estuary that is home to sea turtles. Here, you will spot green sea turtles, as well as blacktip and Galapagos sharks. This evening, you are introduced to a new dining experience as you discover more of our signature cuisine courtesy of our fine Chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. Sit back as he treats you to the finest flavours of Peruvian delicacies. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, thereafter head out to Seymour Norte Island, an Island formed by uprisings of underwater volcanic lavas some 3.1 million years ago. Explore this fascinating Island, famous for its healthy population of land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, and great frigate birds. Finished exploring this morning, head back to the yacht for a delicious lunch aboard Aqua Mare. There is also a morning rendezvous diving option available. In the afternoon, hop on to one of our tenders for a wet landing on Mosquera Island. One of the smallest in the archipelago, Mosquera Island is a favorite site for spotting sea lions. Return this evening to the luxurious and comfortable Aqua Mare for your last evening aboard. Reminisce over unforgettable memories made on this trip, make merry, and toast farewell with something special from our curated wine list. |
Aqua MareBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Finish off this intriguing and interesting adventure with an elegant breakfast set against the sunrise. Indulge in the astonishing views surrounding you all from the Aqua Mare as we circumnavigate Daphne Island before making our way to Baltra Island for disembarkation. Say your goodbyes to the crew, acquaintances, and your beautiful home for the past week. You will be escorted to the airport for your flight back to the mainland and onward journey home. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Dates & Prices
More Info
- The departure point is Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island in Ecuador
- The departure point is Baltra Island, Ecuador
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. Closest airport is Seymour Airport on Baltra Island. Recommended flights with EQUAIR
The Galapagos Islands has a tropical climate with an average of 29°C and water temperature of around 25.5°C on average. The warmer months are followed by coolers months from June to November. The cool air and low temperatures from Antarctica reach the Galapagos Islands during this period.
The Galapagos Islands are on the equator and the climate does not vary dramatically over the year. The climate of the Islands can best be described as subtropical. There is, however, some variation driven mainly by the ocean currents. December to May can be best described as the warm season. This period brings a unique mixture of warmth, rain, and sun. This season is driven by the El Niño Current, which brings a warm current, thus making both the water and the land warmer; this season is also known for afternoon showers. June to November can be best described as the cool season. This season also makes a unique mixture in the climate, usually; cloudy, cool, and dry. The Humboldt Current is responsible for this; it brings a cooler current to the Islands, thus making both the water and the land cooler.
An elegant luxurious superyacht to complement the dramatic Galapagos Islands landscape. Accommodating a total of 16 guests, each of the seven individually designed suites including an 80 sqm Owner’s Suite aboard the Aqua Mare is a luxurious sanctuary to retreat into while exploring the beautiful Galapagos Archipelago. Designed by the Italian mega yacht designers Costruzioni e Riparazioni Navali (CRN) and outfitted by custom yacht interior designer extraordinaire François Zuretti, Aqua Mare stands out for her grand yet effortless sophistication, impressive large interior spaces, panoramic sundeck, and the lower deck multi-purpose ‘Beach Club’.
A striking aspect of the vessel’s suites is how curated prints from the Wallace and Darwin era of exploration complement soft interior furnishings, continuing the leitmotif of the islands’ dramatic volcanic landscapes. Perfected with soft carpeting and luxuriously paneled walls in walnut veneer throughout the entire vessel, sumptuous textiles, personally selected objet d’arts, and premium fittings, accommodation aboard Aqua Mare is one of subtle opulence befitting royalty.
- Design suites are some of the largest in the Galapagos Islands, including a stunning 861 sq. ft (80 sq. m) Owner’s Suite
- 7 luxurious design suites ranging from 172 sq. ft (16 sq. m) to 861 sq. ft (80 sq. m), inclusive of ensuite bathrooms, large windows, or portholes
- Each suite can accommodate two guests (with the exception of the Owner’s Suite 202 which can accommodate a maximum of four guests and Suite 103 which can accommodate a maximum of three guests)
- Ensuite bathrooms fitted with Italian marble, spacious walk-in shower, and overhead rain-shower
- Equipped with pampering organic natural hair and bath amenities
- Premium king-sized, double, and twin beds
- Large closets with electronic safe
- Wall-to-wall carpeting
- Full walnut veneer wood paneling
- All suites are fully air-conditioned
Panoramic Main Lounge: An impressively large space with beam-to-beam windows. The center of the space is furnished with a stately U-shaped sofa where guests may find respite after morning and afternoon excursions, watch lectures on two large flatscreen televisions presented by our expert naturalist guides, or curl up with a signature Assouline edition of Darwin’s ‘On The Origin of Species’.
Aft Outdoor Dining Area: the perfect location with its sweeping views. Enjoy communal meals at the grand 16-seater table or simply watch the surrounding islands from the comfortable daybeds at the aft of the yacht.
Beach Club: Located at the lower deck, it serves as an extension of the dynamic Galapagos Islands landscape and boasts a swimming platform from which many excursions are launched. This room serves as a pre-excursion briefing space and is also ideal for guests to come together to swap stories after a busy day of activities, or simply take advantage of the wraparound sofa, large panoramic windows and flatscreen TV for a lazy family movie night indoors.
Sun Deck: The Upper Deck’s teak sun deck is the ideal spot to take in the stunning panorama of the Galapagos Islands. Offering spectacular 360-degree views, it is furnished with a shaded al fresco dining area, barbecue section, outdoor seating with wraparound lounge sofa, jacuzzi, and convertible workout zone. It is the ideal space for an early morning guided meditation, sunset cocktails, evening grill party, and to enjoy the clear night skies of both northern and southern hemispheres.
Jacuzzi and Lounge Daybeds: Cool down from your active excursions by plunging into our six-person jacuzzi while enjoying exceptional volcanic views of the Archipelago. Soak up the warmth of the Galapagos sun on the lounge daybeds and while lazy afternoons away with your favorite show on the large television screens on either side of the jacuzzi.
Outdoor dining and seating area: The sun deck panoramic dining area is ideal for al fresco lunches, sunset cocktails, evening barbecues and breath-taking stargazing, thanks to its two communal dining tables. Enjoy all-day dining here or simply admire the surrounding landscape views in absolute comfort.
Watersports equipment: a comprehensive suite of top-of-the-line, non-motorized watersports equipment, including snorkeling gear that guests choose for the duration of their itinerary including masks, fins, snorkels, as well as optional shorty wetsuits, eight double kayaks and two stand-up paddle boards.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
