Exploring Galapagos - Family Adventure

Exploring Galapagos - Family Adventure

Prices From £4,863pp
Year round | 9 nights

Single Cabins Available

Exploring Galapagos - Family Adventure

Aboard: National Geographic Endeavour II National Geographic Islander II National Geographic Gemini

Set sail aboard for an unforgettable exploration of the legendary Galápagos Islands, where extraordinary wildlife encounters await around every corner. This immersive voyage is ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike, offering the chance to snorkel with sea lions, kayak along volcanic coastlines, and walk among fearless creatures like marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and giant tortoises. With over 50 years of experience in the archipelago, expert naturalists bring the islands to life through guided hikes, Zodiac excursions, and hands-on learning, including an exclusive National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program designed especially for kids and teens.

Over an incredible week, you will explore a variety of unique islands, each with its own wonders. Spot waved albatross and colourful marine iguanas on Española, witness penguins and volcanic marvels on Bartolomé, and search for whales and sunfish along Isabela’s rugged coast. Discover remote communities on Floreana, snorkel vibrant reefs off Santiago, and visit the iconic Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz. From the flooded caldera of Genovesa to the pristine lava fields of Fernandina, every stop is a front-row seat to the Galápagos’ astonishing biodiversity, and a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Various departures available. Please enquire for full dates and rates.

Highlights

  • Walk among fearless wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, sea lions and much more
  • Snorkel with sea turtles, tropical fish, and playful sea lions in the Galápagos Marine Reserve
  • Explore dramatic volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches by Zodiac, glass-bottomed boat, kayak, or paddleboard
  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and see giant tortoises in the wild on Santa Cruz
  • Experience remote islands like Genovesa, Española, and Fernandina, each rich in biodiversity
  • Enjoy expert-guided hikes and nature walks with seasoned naturalists and certified photo instructors
  • Young travellers can take part in the fun and educational National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program
  • Perfect opportunities for families to create lifelong memories together
  • Spacious interconnecting twin and triple cabins available, ideal for families and groups

What's Included

  • Pre- and post-cruise overnight hotel stays in Quito (or Guayaquil)
  • Transfers between hotel, airport and ship
  • All meals onboard
  • Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and snacks
  • Kayaks, Zodiac cruises, stand-up paddleboards, full complement of snorkelling gear, glass-bottom boat rides, where relevant
  • Guidance and expertise of expedition staff
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • 24-hour access to shared spaces, such as the lounges and fitness centres
  • Complimentary WiFi

Single Cabins Available

This vessel offers single occupancy cabins, which is a perfect option for solo travellers. Travelling alone is often the best way to see the world. No responsibilities, no difficult choices and no trying to please anyone else…just you, your itinerary and your adventurous spirit!

Our popularitinerary Suggestions

All our itinerary holidays are fully customisable

Quito
1Day

Quito

Your Galapagos itinerary begins in the historical Ecuadorian capital city of Quito where upon arriving independently, you will join your transfer to a conveniently located hotel for an included overnight stay. Enjoy some time to explore some of the highlights of this vibrant city, or take advantage of a number of optional tour options and extensions. Alternatively, you can begin your itinerary in the coastal city of Guayaquil.

Fly to Galapagos
2Day

Fly to Galapagos

After breakfast at the hotel this morning, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Baltra in the Galapagos Islands. Upon arrival, you will board your impressive ship, and your Galapagos cruise adventure will truly begin. Settle in as we set sail and soak up the wonderful views from your cabin or from deck.

Please note: Flights between Ecuador mainland and the Galapagos are not included in the shown rates. Please enquire for flight costs and details.

Cruise the Galapagos Islands
3 - 8Days

Cruise the Galapagos Islands

Over the course of six unforgettable days in the Galápagos, your cruise will take you to a selection of remarkable islands, each offering its own blend of wildlife, geology, and natural beauty. You might explore North Seymour, where blue-footed boobies perform their courtship dances and frigatebirds inflate their scarlet throat pouches, or hike through lava fields on the pristine island of Fernandina, home to flightless cormorants and the largest marine iguanas in the archipelago. On Isabela, cross the Equator by Zodiac near volcanic cliffs teeming with marine life, then search the waters for whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and even the elusive ocean sunfish. On Española, a seasonal sanctuary for waved albatross, you can snorkel in the turquoise waters of Gardner Bay or walk among colourful marine iguanas and nesting seabirds.

Further highlights may include visiting Floreana, where you can drop a postcard in the famous barrel at Post Office Bay and snorkel alongside curious sea lions. In Santa Cruz, encounter giant tortoises roaming freely through lush highlands, and stop at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. You might hike to the summit of Bartolomé for panoramic views and the chance to spot Galápagos penguins or explore the tide pools and grottos of Santiago, once visited by Darwin himself. Sail north to Genovesa, a seabird paradise inside a sunken caldera, where red-footed boobies and short-eared owls nest along the cliffs. Or visit San Cristobal, where sea lions sprawl across town beaches and iconic Kicker Rock rises from the sea just offshore. Every stop reveals something new in this living laboratory of evolution.

Throughout your Galapagos expedition, enjoy ample opportunities for activities including snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding, Zodiac excursions and glass-bottom boat trips.

Back to Quito
9 - 10Days

Back to Quito

On day 9, your Galapagos cruise will sadly come to an end, and it will be time to bid farewell to the crew and expedition team. Disembarking in Baltra, you will join your flight back to Quito or Guayaquil where a transfer will be provided to a convenient hotel for an included overnight stay. After breakfast the following morning, transfer back to the airport for onward or homeward flights, or spend some further time exploring mainland Ecuador.

Please note: Flights between Ecuador mainland and the Galapagos are not included in the shown rates. Please enquire for flight costs and details.

A view from Above

All Aboard

National Geographic Endeavour II
Mid range vessel

National Geographic Endeavour II

Step aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II, a purpose-built expedition ship designed for unforgettable journeys through the Galapagos Islands. This elegant and nimble vessel carries just 96 guests, offering an intimate, immersive travel experience. With spacious public areas, an expansive open-air observation deck, and panoramic views from every cabin, Endeavour II is the perfect basecamp for discovery.

Outfitted with cutting-edge exploration tools including a glass-bottom boat, underwater cameras, video microscope, kayaks, and paddleboards, this ship brings the islands’ vibrant ecosystems within easy reach. Guests enjoy an inviting mix of comfort and adventure, with amenities like a forward lounge and bar, dining room, library, and the chance to visit the open bridge to meet the Captain and crew.

Accommodations span 52 outside-facing cabins across five decks, all with large windows and private bathrooms. Solo occupancy, triple berth and interconnecting cabins are available, along with two very spacious suites. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, this ship delivers the ideal balance of relaxed luxury, expert-led exploration, and warm Ecuadorian hospitality.

National Geographic Islander II
First class vessel

National Geographic Islander II

Purpose-built for exploration, the National Geographic Islander II combines modern elegance with the adventurous spirit of the Galapagos. Accommodating just 48 guests, this graceful expedition vessel feels more like a private yacht, offering spacious teak decks, panoramic lounges, and a remarkable 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio. Year-round voyages reveal the islands’ unique wildlife and landscapes in comfort, supported by a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, and even a glass-bottom boat for effortless discovery above and below the water’s surface.

On board, Ecuadorian hospitality shines through locally inspired design and cuisine. Two open-seating dining venues showcase sustainable, farm- and ocean-to-table ingredients, while public spaces such as the plunge pool, observation deck, library, and open Bridge keep guests connected to the islands at every moment. The ship’s 26 staterooms and suites feature panoramic windows, elegant marble bathrooms, and thoughtful details that reflect the character of the region.

National Geographic Gemini
First class vessel

National Geographic Gemini

The newly christened National Geographic Gemini is a purpose-built expedition ship designed for exploring the wonders of the Galapagos. Carrying just 48 guests, this nimble, shallow-draft vessel offers an intimate experience deeply rooted in decades of local collaboration and conservation. With expansive outdoor decks, a whirlpool, and panoramic lounges, Gemini blends small-ship warmth with modern elegance. The fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkel gear ensures guests can explore the islands’ diverse habitats with ease and spontaneity.

Inside, 28 thoughtfully designed cabins, including some of the largest suites in the Galápagos fleet, feature large windows or private balconies, comfortable sitting areas, and modern amenities. The inviting lounge hosts daily recaps and relaxed gatherings, while the restaurant and open-air café serve regionally inspired, sustainable cuisine in a single, social seating. Whether watching marine iguanas on deck or gliding past volcanic shores by Zodiac, the National Geographic Gemini offers a refined yet adventurous way to experience the archipelago’s remarkable wildlife and landscapes.

Too much to choose from? This is where we come in

Take advantage of our vast experience, passion and expertise to help you hand craft the perfect Ecuador, Galapagos adventure for you.

Simon Rowland Senior Travel Expert

Simon’s deep passion for and first-hand knowledge of a vast range of destinations all over the world gives him the ideal skills to help you create a truly unforgettable wildlife inspired adventure to the most exciting places on the planet.

Michael Gardiner Senior Travel Expert

Mike lives and breathes adventure travel and has a wealth of experience in some of the most exciting and inspirational destinations in the world. His expertise and first-hand experience afford him the skills to help build holidays to remember.

Sheena Ogley Senior Travel Expert

Sheena’s abiding love of adventure travel has taken her to some of the most incredible wildlife-rich places on Earth. Her vast experience and genuine desire to share her knowledge makes her an outstanding and invaluable person to help you organise your wildlife adventure trip.

Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

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Outside the uk
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43
Call us
+ 44 1625 5811 43

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Ready to start planning youronce in a lifetime trip?

Call us - 0800 195 3385
Outside the uk? + 44 1625 5811 43
+ 44 1625 5811 43 Call us - 0800 195 3385

Chat Now

Fill in our
Enquiry form

Book Consultation

Book a
Consultation

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