Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
Experience Overview
Discover the rich marine life, abundant bird colonies and natural landscapes of the Galapagos Islands on this action-packed 10-day adventure cruise. Board your comfortable motor yacht and set off in search of adventure and wildlife with your on-hand naturalist guide. Hike over pahoehoe lava on Bahia Sullivan, snorkel off the coast of Isla Espanola and discover the archipelago’s history on Isla San Cristobal. See pink flamingos, Galapagos sharks, fur seals, iguanas, varied birdlife and so much more, all alongside some vistas totally unique to this part of the world!
Highlights
- Snorkel in the Devil’s Crown for an underwater experience like no other – this submerged crater is full of sea lions, turtles and rays and boasts some of the best underwater views in the archipelago.
- Become a bird-lover (if you’re not already!) as you see the albatross colonies of Isla Espanola and seek out the rare red-footed booby on Isla Genovesa.
- Plant your feet on 100-year-old pahoehoe lava as you walk across Bahia Sullivan, maybe spotting a colourful marine iguana along the way.
- Discover the otherworldly landscapes and creatures the islands are famous for, going deeper with a knowledgeable local naturalist guide who will accompany you on all your excursions.
- See sea lions, marine iguanas and more fish than you can shake a snorkel at – this trip is packed with guaranteed wildlife encounters!
Trip Details
Product Code: 1977
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Comfortable
Transport: Boat,Plane,Bus,Zodiac (Panga)
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: GMDA
Starts: Quito, Ecuador
Finishes: Quito, Ecuador
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (7), Dinner (8)Accommodation: Hotel (2 nights),Overnight boat (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $9,165 ($916 /day)
Itinerary
Bienvenidos! Welcome to Ecuador. Your adventure begins in Quito – Ecuador’s sprawling capital city. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 5 or 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and small group of fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe check out the city at your own pace – head to the Old Town and pick one (or more) of the 30 churches to explore. After your meeting, you’ll head to a small, local restaurant for dinner with your group. Take in the aromas and fresh flavours of the traditional Ecuadorian cuisine – think locroc (traditional potato soup) or quinoa, pork and vegetable dishes cooked with herbs, lemongrass and rich sauces, all sourced from local farms.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You have a very early start this morning (maybe as early as 4 am, depending on flight times) as you head into the Galapagos. Transfer to Mariscal Sucre International Airport (Quito Airport), with a boxed breakfast on the way. When you arrive, you’ll meet your naturalist guide in the arrival hall. Take the short bus ride to the ferry, then board and head across the Itabaca Channel to Isla Santa Cruz. You’ll then board a private bus to Los Gemelos, in the highlands. Surrounded by the unique scalesia cloud forest, look out for the abundant birdlife when you arrive, including different species of Darwin finches, woodpeckers, warbler finches and vermillion flycatchers. Continue further into the highlands to explore a rancho farm, where you’ll take a walk and have lunch – you might even see the giant tortoises in their natural habitat! After lunch, travel to Puerto Ayora, where Le Grande Daphne and her crew will be waiting for you.
Included Activities:
- Isla Santa Cruz - Highlands Visit (1.5 hours) - Dry Landing
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Learn about the maritime history of Post Office Bay – home of the oldest postal system in the Americas. The post box here was first built by 18th-century whalers and is still in use today. Maybe leave a letter, then head out for your first spot of snorkelling. After, head ashore at Punta Cormorant, where the sand is made up of olivine crystal – a glassy, volcanic mineral that gives the beach an olive-green colour. Take a walk in search of sea lions, flamingos, pintails and stilts, finishing at a sandy beach where Eastern Pacific green turtles nest. Just offshore, the famous Devil’s Crown waits for those who want a special snorkelling experience – the partially-submerged remains of a volcanic cone are now a unique swimming hole, home to rays, sharks, sea lions and turtles.
Included Activities:
- Isla Floreana - Post Office Bay - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla Floreana - Punta Cormorant walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Today will begin with a hike on Isla Espanola – the southernmost island of the Galapagos and the breeding site for almost all the estimated 24,000 waved albatross on earth. If you’re lucky (and the timing is right), you might spot the elaborate courtship rituals performed by albatross before the female chooses her lifelong mate. Hike through booby colonies to the rocky trails of beautiful Punta Suarez, ending at a clifftop viewpoint. Look out over views of rugged cliffs framed by swooping frigate birds, watching while albatross use the cliffs as their ‘runway’, getting airborne on the southeast winds. Next, head to Bahia Gardner for a walk along the beach. Dodge lounging sea lions, then cool off with a spot of snorkelling. The rocks off the coast are rich with reef sharks, turtles and many species of tropical fish (such as surgeon and angelfish). Small, white-tipped reef sharks can also be spotted resting under the rocks.
Included Activities:
- Isla Espanola - Bahia Gardener - Snorkel (1 hour)
- Isla Espanola - Punta Suarez - Walk (3 hours) - Dry Landing
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a trip to Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock) – this basalt crater rises 150 m above the water and is divided into two parts by a narrow channel. Cruise around Kicker Rock as nesting seabirds flank the boat, tropicbirds soar overhead and sea lions lounge by the water. Next, spend some time snorkelling at Cerro Brujo, looking out for Galapagos sharks and sea turtles. You could also walk on the beach to see the sea lions. Later, sail to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the island of San Cristobal. Some passengers will be leaving today, and others may join you. You’ll have free time in the town, then in the afternoon you’ll visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Centre, which brings the history and geography of the archipelago to life. If there’s time, your guide may be able to organise a visit to the highlands, for a chance to see giant tortoises in the wild. The price of this optional activity depends on the number of passengers attending. Relaxing on the beach is a great option for those who don’t wish to go.
Included Activities:
- Isla San Cristobal - Interpretation Center Visit (1 hour) - Dry Landing
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Sea lions, iguanas and hawks – oh my! Isla Santa Fe is home to all three, plus Galapagos mockingbirds, marine turtles, frigate birds, Galapagos doves and lava lizards. This island boasts one of the most attractive coves in the whole archipelago. Take a hike along the coast into the opuntia forest, then cool off with a snorkel, looking out for schools of fish, rays and sea turtles. After, continue to Isla Plaza Sur. When you arrive on this small, gorgeous island, you’ll head out for another walk to get close to sea lions, passing one of the Galapagos’ largest land iguana populations on the way. The southern cliffs are great for spotting tropicbirds and swallow-tailed gulls, as well as ‘the Gentlemen’s Club’ – a gathering of male sea lions.
Included Activities:
- Isla Plaza Sur - Walk (2 hours) - Dry Landing
- Isla Santa Fe - Walk (1.5 hours) - Wet Landing
- Isla Santa Fe - Snorkel (1 hour)
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Explore Isla Genovesa – the archipelago's north-eastern outpost. The island’s varied landscapes are a twitcher's paradise, with all three kinds of boobies (including the rare red-footed booby) nesting here. Next, see Bahia Darwin (Darwin Beach) for another birding site with large breeding colonies of seabirds, frigates, lava herons, swallow-tailed gulls, mockingbirds and vampire finches. Head out for a hike to see tide pools, sea lions and diamond stingrays. The steep Prince Philip's Steps lead you to the heart of the seabird rookeries, with birds swirling overhead and nesting among the cliffs. Look out for storm petrels on the island’s rocky plains – Genovesa is the only place in the world where these birds can be seen flying during the day! After, maybe cool off with a snorkel, looking out for manta rays, sharks, turtles and moray eels, plus many species of fish.
Included Activities:
- Isla Genovesa - Bahia Darwin - Walk (2 hours) Wet Landing
- Isla Genovesa - La Barranco - Snorkel (1 hour)
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
On Santiago Island's eastern coast sits Bahia Sullivan. Take a walk along pahoehoe lava, which was created by an eruption that occurred here in 1897. With some luck, you might see some marine iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions, finches, turtles, sharks and penguins. During your walk, as always, your naturalist guide will take you through the geological history of the island. Then, travel to Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill) – one of the best places to see land iguanas. Walk to a brackish lagoon to see lagoon birds such as stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings and flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western area of the archipelago. This area is a nesting site for land iguanas, which is constantly monitored and assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation makes for an ideal place to see Darwin's finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galapagos flycatcher and yellow warblers.
Included Activities:
- 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)
Accommodation:
- M/Y Grand Daphne (Number of Nights: 1)
Explore the red mangrove wetland of Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove) today on your Zodiac. Cruise through this peaceful cove and look out for mating green turtles, golden cow-nose rays, eagle rays and Galapagos sharks. After, head to the airport in Isla Baltra for your flight back to Quito. You’ll arrive back to Quito at approximately 4 pm, where you’ll then ttransfer to your hotel for your last night.
Included Activities:
- Isla Santa Cruz - Black Turtle Cove - Panga ride (1.5 hours)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for today, and your adventure finishes after breakfast this morning. Of course, that doesn’t mean your adventure has to end! Why not stay on in Quito for a few days and discover the charms of the city. If you need help booking extra accommodation, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Amanda - Traveled, January 2024
This was the trip of a lifetime! The experience of swimming with sea turtles, penguins, sharks, and beautiful fish was one we will never forget. The food on board and accommodations were the best we’ve ever experienced.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/04/2024
Dave - Traveled, January 2024
Facilities and crew/ leader service were excellent. A memorable vacation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/04/2024
Jenny - Traveled, January 2024
Excellent trip! We had the best time.! I wish I had taken the longer itinerary, Galápagos is the most amazing place on earth. The tour guide and all the crew were excellent.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/04/2024
Jo - Traveled, January 2024
Had an amazing trip to the Galapagos on a beautiful boat with great crew and a really friendly vibe amongst the passengers. Had a fantastic guide, Karla, who showed us so much wildlife and so many fascinating parts of the islands. Her local knowledge made the trip very special. We want to come back and do more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2024
Nicolas - Traveled, January 2024
Had the best time on the Grand Daphne - amazing varied activities with a knowledgeable guide, a great crew and an amazing boat! Would recommend 10/10!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/04/2024
Janet - Traveled, January 2024
Learned a lot about the islands and snorkeling was superb. Swimming with penguins off Bartolome was a highlight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Shane - Traveled, January 2024
The boat and the crew were incredible. Great food. The Galapagos is an impressive place but the crew and our guide made the experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/23/2024
Paul - Traveled, January 2024
The Grand Daphne is an excellent vessel, great accommodation and food. But the best thing is the crew and guide, who worked long hours as professional team to look after us so well. The itinerary was very good and we saw all the wildlife expected on land and in the sea.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/02/2024
Tracey - Traveled, January 2024
This is a remarkable trip and a privilege to experience nature and the special ecosystem of the Galapagos. Expect nothing and be blown away by the beauty. Great guide, great food. Thank you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Jennifer - Traveled, October 2023
The Complete Galapagos on the Grand Daphne exceeded expectations. Guide and crew were terrific, boat and food was amazing. This trip should be on everyone’s bucket list. An amazing experience to see the unique animals of the Galapagos. Glad we were doing the full 8 days (some guests did half) so we could see so many different islands and amazing creatures. Snorkeled with turtles, iguanas, sea lions, rays, sharks, and amazing beautiful fish. Many breathtaking snorkeling adventures and land adventures. Highly recommend!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Biagio - Traveled, August 2023
It was or first trip with Intrepid, and we have enjoyed everything, hotel, boat, meals, activities and the crew from Grand Daphne.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Sonia - Traveled, August 2023
What a wonderful and unforgettable trip we had in those Galapagos Islands on board of Grand Daphne. Thanks you so much to all crew members and Intrepid Travel to have made of this trip "une classe à part". See you soon for another adventures !!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Tammy - Traveled, May 2023
The Grand Daphne crew is excellent. They took care of everything and made us feel comfortable and safe. The grand Daphne boat is beautiful and well maintained. It can get a bit rough on the water so this boat may not be good for someone who gets very seasick. The itinerary makes it so you get the most out of the trip so we saw so much. One of the best trips I have every been on.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/18/2023
Bronwyn - Traveled, August 2022
This trip exceeded my high expectations of the Galapagos. The highlights were the interactions with the amazing and varied wildlife and the ever changeable scenery of each island. Galapagos gives us all hope of what is possible if we value our natural heritage and manage it wisely. Being spectators in their world, rather than they in ours, gives us a perspective that changes values and attitudes for the better.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/07/2022
Stephen - Traveled, February 2022
This tour was fantastic for those who love to snorkel and don't mind a walk in the sun. Between the two there was plenty of good food and drinks and lively conversation with new friends. It also helps if you're willing to learn to appreciate the scientific significance of the Galapagos.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2022
Dana - Traveled, May 2023
The Grand Daphne is a beautiful boat, roomy cabins, plenty of space on the boat to relax and enjoy the view. Crew and food were fabulous. Naturalist guide was excellent, always well-informed for what to expect/bring on each excursion. The number of hikes and snorkeling opportunities were plentiful -- there was ample time to explore each island that was visited and plenty of time to take photos and learn about each area. Excellent trip and boat!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2023
Robin - Traveled, April 2023
The Galapagos Islands have always been on our bucket list and our Intrepid Complete Galapagos (Grand Daphne) did not disappoint. The boat, crew and tour leader were brilliant and the animals, birds and scenery stunning. It was an experience to savour and enjoy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2023
Troy - Traveled, February 2023
Had the time of my life seeing amazing animals and meeting new people! A must for any animal lovers!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/01/2023
Linda - Traveled, December 2022
My friend and I visited the Galapagos Islands four years ago and loved the trip so much, we did the exact same trip a second time! It was just as magical the second time as it was the first. Jacinto was an excellent leader and the Grand Daphne was a joy to be aboard. My favorite activity both trips was swimming with penguins!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2023
Neville - Traveled, November 2022
Intrepid's 10 day Galapagos Grand Daphne trip is expensive, and you only get 6 days of activities, the rest is travel, letting off and on people only doing the 5 day tours. The tour guide Isabella was fabulous, and the excursion days and snorkeling is amazing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/28/2022
Kay - Traveled, November 2022
Galapagos is so unique in terms of flora and fauna. Our Naturalistic Guide Isabela was extremely knowledgeable and provided a wealth of information on the huge variety of birds and animals we were so lucky to see. The opportunities for snorkelling and hiking were great. The Grand Daphne and her crew were awesome! Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2022
Roger - Traveled, September 2022
A Galapogas visit should be on everyone's bucket list and I doubt that anyone could do it better than Intrepid on the Grand Daphne.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/19/2022
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