Santa Cruz
Plan your magical Galapagos holiday aboard the M/V Santa Cruz.
The ship features several facilities such as gift shop, bar, lounge, boutique, Jacuzzi, library, air conditioned throughout the ship, email, telephone and fax access. There are three basic room types: master suite, junior suite and standard cabin. Each cabin features safety boxes, hair dryers, air conditioning and private bathroom.
This is the opportunity of a lifetime to learn and experience the Galapagos the best way possible! The welcoming staff will help you have the vacation of a lifetime!
- Available Cruises
- 4 days
- 5 days
- 8 days
- 8 days
M/V Santa Cruz
4 days / 3 nights
Friday to Monday
| Deck | Cabin Type | 3 night cruise |
| Boat deck | Master suite (double) | $2135 |
|
| Junior suite (twin) | $1875 |
|
| Superior (twin/double) | $1770 |
|
| Standard plus (twin) | $1700 |
|
| Standard (twin) | $1625 |
| Upper deck | Standard (twin) | $1485 |
| Main deck | Standard (twin) | $1410 |
Day 01 , Friday: Arrival to San Cristobal / Cerro Brujo
Upon arrival to San Cristobal, you will be transferred to the M/V Santa Cruz, where you will have an introductory talk and lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a dinghy ride to a white beach in Cerro Brujo. Here you will see many shore birds and sea lions. Hopefully you'll see the island´s endemic species: a mockingbird and a lava lizard. This island has a special historic interest, as this was the first island Darwin visited.
Day 02 , Saturday: Punta Suarez / Punta Cormorant
(Floreana)
In the morning you'll walk in a lava and volcanic rock ground in Punta Suarez. Along the way you'll see the famous blow hole and many bird colonies.
In the afternoon, visit a pristine beach in Punta Cormorant. Here you'll visit a salt water lagoon where many aquatic bird species come to feed and also you will enjoy some beach time.
Day 03 , Sunday: Punta Espinoza / Punta Vicente
Today you'll visit Fernandina Island, where you'll walk for about a mile. Although the environment on this island may seem deserted, the place is packed with animals such as iguanas, sea lions, crabs and hawks. After returning to the boat and having lunch, you'll sail through the Bolivar Channel. Along the way, it's possible to see dolphins and even whales.
In the afternoon, weather permitting, you'll do some snorkeling near Isabela's northern side. The area is incredibly rich in marine life! You'll also do some coastal exploration in a small boat, where your guide will explain about the island's interesting geology.
Day 04 , Monday: Baltra
After disembarking in Baltra you'll be transferred to the airport.
- Accommodations on the boat
- Excursions and transfers mentioned
- Three daily meals
- Snorkeling gear
- Transfers from main hotels in Quito (Hilton Colon, Swissôtel, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn) to the airport for flights from/to Galapagos.
- Nightly ECO Moment, where you will learn about geology, evolution, oceanography among others. ECO stands for Explore, Conserve and Observe.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
- The itinerary and program might be modified in any way due to weather, national park regulations or safety reasons.
- Rates are subject to change
- A good physical condition is highly recommend, as some walking will be done on irregular terrain
- In some visits, you will disembark from the dinghy boats directly into the water, in some, you will land in rocks or a dock.
- From June to December, a shortie wet suit is recommended.
- No more than 20 kilos (44 pounds) of luggage may be checked on flights to/from the Galapagos. Small carry-on luggage and camera cases are not included in this restriction
M/V Santa Cruz
5 days / 4 nights
Monday to Friday
| Deck | Cabin Type | 4 night cruise |
| Boat deck | Master suite (double) | $2850 |
|
| Junior suite (twin) | $2475 |
|
| Superior (twin/double) | $2360 |
|
| Standard plus (twin) | $2265 |
|
| Standard (twin) | $2170 |
| Upper deck | Standard (twin) | $1980 |
| Main deck | Standard (twin) | $1880 |
Day 01 , Monday: Baltra Island / Cerro Dragon
Upon arrival to Baltra airport you'll be transferred by bus to the dock, where you'll check in at the MV Santa Cruz. After an introductory talk, you'll have lunch and then head towards Dragon Hill. After a dry landing you´ll hike to a salt water lagoon where you'll see many aquatic bird species. Continuing along a trail that leads further inland, you'll reach a view point from where you'll see the bay and the island's west part, as well as other type of wildlife.
At night, at ECO Moment you'll learn about the islands in general and the plans for tomorrow.
Day 02 , Tuesday: Bartolome Island / Puerto Egas
(Santiago Island)
Upon a dry landing in San Bartolome, you'll climb up to Pinnacle Rock. The hike up is quote an effort, but it's worth it! Afterwards you'll have some time to enjoy the beach and to snorkel. Here you'll probably see Galapagos penguins.
After lunch aboard, you'll visit Puerto Egas. Here you'll be able to see a lot of wildlife: iguanas, Galapagos sea lions and many bird species. These beaches are known for their dark sand.
Day 03 , Wednesday: Rabida Island / Puerto Ayora
(Santa Cruz Island)
In the morning you'll visit Rabida Island, where you'll land on a red beach. The color is given by iron rich volcanic matter. Here you'll have an opportunity to see many animal species such as sea lions, marine iguanas and many birds, as well as to do some snorkeling.
In the afternoon you´ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you'll learn about the protection of the Galapagos tortoises. Then, you'll walk around town, through Puerto Ayora's main street.
Day 04 , Thursday: Santa Cruz Island / North Seymour
Today you will be driven up the Santa Cruz's highlands, where you'll be able to see the tortoises in their wild habitat, as well as several species of Darwin finches.
In the afternoon, you'll visit North Seymour Island. In it shores you'll see blue footed boobies, frigate birds and gulls.
Day 05 , Friday: Puerto Baquerizo / Departure
Today in Puerto Baquerizo you'll visit La Galapaguera breeding center for Tortoises. If there is some time left, you'll also visit El Junco Lagoon, the only freshwater lagoon in the islands. Instead of a visit to La Galapaguera, you may also choose to visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center at your own pace. Here you will learn about the island´s natural history.
Then you can take a stroll around town and visit the souvenir shops. Afterwards you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Quito or Guayaquil
- Accommodations on the boat
- Excursions and transfers mentioned
- Three daily meals
- Snorkeling gear
- Transfers from main hotels in Quito (Hilton Colon, Swissôtel, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn) to the airport for flights from/to Galapagos.
- Nightly ECO Moment, where you will learn about geology, evolution, oceanography among others. ECO stands for Explore, Conserve and Observe.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
- The itinerary and program might be modified in any way due to weather, national park regulations or safety reasons.
- Rates are subject to change
- A good physical condition is highly recommend, as some walking will be done on irregular terrain
- In some visits, you will disembark from the dinghy boats directly into the water, in some, you will land in rocks or a dock.
- From June to December, a shortie wet suit is recommended.
- No more than 20 kilos (44 pounds) of luggage may be checked on flights to/from the Galapagos. Small carry-on luggage and camera cases are not included in this restriction
M/V Santa Cruz
8 days / 7 nights
Friday to Friday
| Deck | Cabin Type | 7 night cruise |
| Boat deck | Master suite (double) | $4990 |
|
| Junior suite (twin) | $4335 |
|
| Superior (twin/double) | $4140 |
|
| Standard plus (twin) | $3970 |
|
| Standard (twin) | $3800 |
| Upper deck | Standard (twin) | $3470 |
| Main deck | Standard (twin) | $3300 |
Day 01 , Friday: Puerto Baquerizo / Cerro Brujo
Upon arrival to San Cristobal, you will be transferred to the M/V Santa Cruz, where you will have an introductory talk and lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a dinghy ride to a white beach in Cerro Brujo. Here you will see many shore birds and sea lions. Hopefully you'll see the island´s endemic species: a mockingbird and a lava lizard. This island has a special historic interest, as this was the first island Darwin visited.
Day 02 , Saturday: Punta Suarez / Punta Cormorant
(Floreana)
In the morning you'll walk in a lava and volcanic rock ground in Punta Suarez. Along the way you'll see the famous blow hole and many bird colonies.
In the afternoon, visit a pristine beach in Punta Cormorant. Here you'll visit a salt water lagoon where many aquatic bird species come to feed and also you will enjoy some beach time.
Day 03 , Sunday: Punta Espinoza / Punta Vicente
Today you'll visit Fernandina Island, where you'll walk for about a mile. Although the environment on this island may seem deserted, the place is packed with animals such as iguanas, sea lions, crabs and hawks. After returning to the boat and having lunch, you'll sail through the Bolivar Channel. Along the way, it's possible to see dolphins and even whales.
In the afternoon, weather permitting, you'll do some snorkeling near Isabela's northern side. The area is incredibly rich in marine life! You'll also do some coastal exploration in a small boat, where your guide will explain about the island's interesting geology.
Day 04 , Monday: Baltra Island / Cerro Dragon
In the morning you'll stop by Baltra Island. While other guests join the ship, you'll have some time to relax, swim or explore Baltra Island. Optional activities are available.
Then you will head towards Dragon Hill. After a dry landing you´ll hike to a salt water lagoon where you'll see many aquatic bird species. Continuing along a trail that leads further inland, you'll reach a view point from where you'll see the bay and the island's west part, as well as other type of wildlife.
At night, at ECO Moment you'll learn about the islands in general and the plans for tomorrow.
Day 05 , Tuesday: Bartolome Island / Puerto Egas
(Santiago Island)
Upon a dry landing in San Bartolome, you'll climb up to Pinnacle Rock. The hike up is quote an effort, but it's worth it! Afterwards you'll have some time to enjoy the beach and to snorkel. Here you'll probably see Galapagos penguins.
After lunch aboard, you'll visit Puerto Egas. Here you'll be able to see a lot of wildlife: iguanas, Galapagos sea lions and many bird species. These beaches are known for their dark sand.
Day 06 , Wednesday: Rabida Island / Puerto Ayora
(Santa Cruz Island)
In the morning you'll visit Rabida Island, where you'll land on a red beach. The color is given by iron rich volcanic matter. Here you'll have an opportunity to see many animal species such as sea lions, marine iguanas and many birds, as well as to do some snorkeling.
In the afternoon you´ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you'll learn about the protection of the Galapagos tortoises. Then, you'll walk around town, through Puerto Ayora's main street.
Day 07 , Thursday: Santa Cruz Island / North Seymour
Today you will be driven up the Santa Cruz's highlands, where you'll be able to see the tortoises in their wild habitat, as well as several species of Darwin finches.
In the afternoon, you'll visit North Seymour Island. In it shores you'll see blue footed boobies, frigate birds and gulls.
Day 08 , Friday: Puerto Baquerizo / Departure
Today in Puerto Baquerizo you'll visit La Galapaguera breeding center for Tortoises. If there is some time left, you'll also visit El Junco Lagoon, the only freshwater lagoon in the islands. Instead of a visit to La Galapaguera, you may also choose to visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center at your own pace. Here you will learn about the island´s natural history.
Then you can take a stroll around town and visit the souvenir shops. Afterwards you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Quito or Guayaquil
- Accommodations on the boat
- Excursions and transfers mentioned
- Three daily meals
- Snorkeling gear
- Transfers from main hotels in Quito (Hilton Colon, Swissôtel, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn) to the airport for flights from/to Galapagos.
- Nightly ECO Moment, where you will learn about geology, evolution, oceanography among others. ECO stands for Explore, Conserve and Observe.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
- The itinerary and program might be modified in any way due to weather, national park regulations or safety reasons.
- Rates are subject to change
- A good physical condition is highly recommend, as some walking will be done on irregular terrain
- In some visits, you will disembark from the dinghy boats directly into the water, in some, you will land in rocks or a dock.
- From June to December, a shortie wet suit is recommended.
- No more than 20 kilos (44 pounds) of luggage may be checked on flights to/from the Galapagos. Small carry-on luggage and camera cases are not included in this restriction
M/v Santa Cruz
8 days / 7 nights
Monday to Monday
| Deck | Cabin Type | 7 night cruise |
| Boat deck | Master suite (double) | $4990 |
|
| Junior suite (twin) | $4335 |
|
| Superior (twin/double) | $4140 |
|
| Standard plus (twin) | $3970 |
|
| Standard (twin) | $3800 |
| Upper deck | Standard (twin) | $3470 |
| Main deck | Standard (twin) | $3300 |
Day 01 , Monday: Baltra Island / Cerro Dragon
Upon arrival to Baltra airport you'll be transferred by bus to the dock, where you'll check in at the MV Santa Cruz. After an introductory talk, you'll have lunch and then head towards Dragon Hill. After a dry landing you´ll hike to a salt water lagoon where you'll see many aquatic bird species. Continuing along a trail that leads further inland, you'll reach a view point from where you'll see the bay and the island's west part, as well as other type of wildlife.
At night, at ECO Moment you'll learn about the islands in general and the plans for tomorrow.
Day 02 , Tuesday: Bartolome Island / Puerto Egas
(Santiago Island)
Upon a dry landing in San Bartolome, you'll climb up to Pinnacle Rock. The hike up is quote an effort, but it's worth it! Afterwards you'll have some time to enjoy the beach and to snorkel. Here you'll probably see Galapagos penguins.
After lunch aboard, you'll visit Puerto Egas. Here you'll be able to see a lot of wildlife: iguanas, Galapagos sea lions and many bird species. These beaches are known for their dark sand.
Day 03 , Wednesday: Rabida Island / Puerto Ayora
(Santa Cruz Island)
In the morning you'll visit Rabida Island, where you'll land on a red beach. The color is given by iron rich volcanic matter. Here you'll have an opportunity to see many animal species such as sea lions, marine iguanas and many birds, as well as to do some snorkeling.
In the afternoon you´ll visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you'll learn about the protection of the Galapagos tortoises. Then, you'll walk around town, through Puerto Ayora's main street.
Day 04 , Thursday: Santa Cruz Island / North Seymour
Today you will be driven up the Santa Cruz's highlands, where you'll be able to see the tortoises in their wild habitat, as well as several species of Darwin finches.
In the afternoon, you'll visit North Seymour Island. In it shores you'll see blue footed boobies, frigate birds and gulls.
Day 05 , Friday: Puerto Baquerizo / Cerro Brujo
Today in Puerto Baquerizo you'll visit La Galapaguera breeding center for Tortoises. If there is some time left, you'll also visit El Junco Lagoon, the only freshwater lagoon in the islands. Instead of a visit to La Galapaguera, you may also choose to visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center at your own pace. Here you will learn about the island´s natural history.
Then you can take a stroll around town and visit the souvenir shops.
In the afternoon, enjoy a dinghy ride to a white beach in Cerro Brujo. Here you will see many shore birds and sea lions. Hopefully you'll see the island´s endemic species: a mockingbird and a lava lizard. This island has a special historic interest, as this was the first island Darwin visited.
Day 06 , Saturday: Punta Suarez / Punta Cormorant
(Floreana)
In the morning you'll walk in a lava and volcanic rock ground in Punta Suarez. Along the way you'll see the famous blow hole and many bird colonies.
In the afternoon, visit a pristine beach in Punta Cormorant. Here you'll visit a salt water lagoon where many aquatic bird species come to feed and also you will enjoy some beach time.
Day 07 , Sunday: Punta Espinoza / Punta Vicente
Today you'll visit Fernandina Island, where you'll walk for about a mile. Although the environment on this island may seem deserted, the place is packed with animals such as iguanas, sea lions, crabs and hawks. After returning to the boat and having lunch, you'll sail through the Bolivar Channel. Along the way, it's possible to see dolphins and even whales.
In the afternoon, weather permitting, you'll do some snorkeling near Isabela's northern side. The area is incredibly rich in marine life! You'll also do some coastal exploration in a small boat, where your guide will explain about the island's interesting geology.
Day 08 , Monday: Baltra
After disembarking in Baltra you'll be transferred to the airport.
- Accommodations on the boat
- Excursions and transfers mentioned
- Three daily meals
- Snorkeling gear
- Transfers from main hotels in Quito (Hilton Colon, Swissôtel, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn) to the airport for flights from/to Galapagos.
- Nightly ECO Moment, where you will learn about geology, evolution, oceanography among others. ECO stands for Explore, Conserve and Observe.
- Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
- The itinerary and program might be modified in any way due to weather, national park regulations or safety reasons.
- Rates are subject to change
- A good physical condition is highly recommend, as some walking will be done on irregular terrain
- In some visits, you will disembark from the dinghy boats directly into the water, in some, you will land in rocks or a dock.
- From June to December, a shortie wet suit is recommended.
- No more than 20 kilos (44 pounds) of luggage may be checked on flights to/from the Galapagos. Small carry-on luggage and camera cases are not included in this restriction
- Technical Specs
- Deck Plans
| Type of Vessel | Cruise ship |
|---|---|
| Length | 237,3 feet / 72,35 meters |
| Beam | 38,86 feet / 11,85 meters |
| Draft | N/A |
| Year Built | Reconstructed: 1998 in Chile |
| Engines | 2 Sulzer Engines, 1620 HP each |
| Cruising Speed | 13 knots |
| Crew | 52 (6 naturalist guides) |
| Accomodations | N/A |
| Capacity | 90 guests |
| Safety | Life jackets in each cabin, 2 lifeboats and 2 liferafts, doctor on board, fire controls, SOLAS ISM certificate |
