5-DAY FIRST CLASS VACATION ON BOARD THE M/V SANTA CRUZ II – FROM $4,066.00
AVAILABLE FOR THURSDAY ARRIVALS TO BALTRA UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2020
This 5-day Santa Cruz II Galapagos Cruise West Islands vacation package on board the First Class M/V Santa Cruz II takes you to Isabela, Fernandina, Santa Cruz, and Floreana Islands.
The Expedition style Santa Cruz II boasts five spacious decks, with modern interiors designed by renowned ship designer, Richard Nilsson. Created with the ethos of stylish simplicity at its heart, the boat ensures sumptuous surroundings from which to take in the magnificent vistas of the enchanted islands. She sleeps ninety guests in fifty cabins, decorated in a contemporary design spanning three decks. Guests can choose from luxuriously appointed single, double, and triple cabins, or opt for one of the three even more exclusive Darwin Suites, an exceptional standard of accommodation on the Panorama Deck, where guests will receive elevated service and carefully refined extras such as a take-home Galápagos coffee table book, a tablet loan for each cabin, complimentary drinks and VIP lounge access at the Galápagos Islands airport.
- 5-Day/4-Night Cruise Program with morning and afternoon explorations of the Galapagos Western Islands
- All meals on board
- Services of Certified Naturalist Guides
- Snorkeling Opportunities and Glass Bottom Boat Rides
- English-speaking local hosts and guides
- Personalized service of our Ecuador-based partners
Day by Day Itinerary: Santa Cruz II Galapagos Cruise West Islands
DAY 1 | THURSDAY | Welcome to Baltra | L.D.
Our itinerary together begins at Baltra where we will board the ship and sail towards Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island for an interesting hike through Palo Santo forests full of Galapagos’ famed land iguanas. Overnight, we sail round the seahorse-shaped Isabela Island to two great visitor sites: Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island with the fascinating geology of collapsed Ecuador volcano, and then wild and pure Punta Espinoza on Fernandina, one of the most pristine islands in the world, with one of the islands’ densest colonies of marine iguanas and opportunities to see flightless cormorants. From there, we sail back round to Santa Cruz to visit the world-famous Charles Darwin Research Station where scientists are involved with research and conservation efforts, the most well-known of which involves a captive breeding program for giant tortoises, and then spend the afternoon enjoying a range of active options. The following day finds us on Floreana Island, exploring its human history and stunning wildlife at both Post Office Bay and Punta Cormorant. The next day we say goodbye to the islands after an amazing journey! The entire crew aboard the Santa Cruz will do our utmost to ensure that your Galapagos experience is truly, deeply moving and memorable.
Following the morning arrival at Baltra Airport, we transfer to the dock and board the M/V Santa Cruz II where the cabins will be assigned, followed by an introductory briefing and lunch.
Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill) (Santa Cruz Island): The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). The first part of our walk passes a brackish-water lagoon frequented by shorebirds, ducks and flamingos, while further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as the chance of observing land iguanas.
DAY 2 | FRIDAY | B.L.D.
Punta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island) and Punta Espinoza (Fernandina Island): After breakfast, we take the panga over to this idyllic sandy-white beach populated by many sea lions. The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the morning walk amid the giant prickly pear cacti. Snorkeling and swimming from the panga finishes today’s experience, or if you prefer, the glass-bottom boat provides an incredible view for non-snorkelers.
Punta Espinoza (Fernandina Island): The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the youngest island of the archipelago, Fernandina Island. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina boasts a very unique environment having a high density of marine iguanas, who, in turn, share their space with sea lions, Sally light-foot crabs, hawks, penguins, and the flightless cormorants.
DAY 3 | SATURDAY | B.L.D.
Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island): In the morning, we disembark (dry landing) for our visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation, and the National Park administration. Following our visit, we board our transport to enjoy lunch in the cooler highlands of Santa Cruz Island, a completely different ecosystem.
Santa Cruz Island: We have several options available for the afternoon, which can be discussed in advance with your Expedition Leader. Options include beach walks, kayaks, walks along the tortoise reserve, etc. At the end of the afternoon’s activities, we return to Puerto Ayora and embark on the Santa Cruz II.
DAY 4 | SUNDAY | B.L.D.
Post Office Bay / Champion Islet and Cormorant Point (Floreana Island): A short walk leads us to the historic barrel where postcards are traditionally left for guests from other vessels to hand-deliver to their destinations. Near Post Office Bay, we explore the north shore of Floreana Island along narrow channels teeming with life. We then head back on board for lunch.
Champion Islet and Cormorant Point (Floreana Island): Following lunch and a siesta, we take to the pangas and glass-bottom boat to explore the underwater wonders around Champion Islet, an extinct shield volcano, regarded as one of the best snorkeling spots in the archipelago. From there, it’s on to Cormorant Point, beginning with a wet landing on the olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk that includes a brackish water lagoon where bird species such as American flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, herons, sandpipers, and others gather. We continue our walk to a white-sand beach, where sea turtles emerge from the sea at night to nest (from December to May).
DAY 5 | MONDAY | Baltra / Home / Next Destination | B.
We disembark at Baltra Island in order to transfer to the airport.
PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED
AVAILABLE FOR THURSDAY ARRIVALS IN BALTRA UNTIL DECEMBER 31, 2020
| CATEGORY | DOUBLE | TRIPLE FAMILY CABIN1 | QUAD (2 BDR) | CHILD2 | SINGLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horizon Deck | $4,066.00 | $3,822.00 | $4,066.00 | $3,659.00 | $4,690.00 |
| Expedition Deck | $4,230.00 | N/A | $4,230.00 | $3,807.00 | $4,865.00 |
¹ Triple Occupancy share existing beds in a family cabin on Horizon Deck
² Child rate applies to one child 6 to 11 yrs. old sharing accommodations with two adults and using existing beds. Minimum age 6 yrs. Child rates doesn’t apply during certain dates.
| VALID FOR THURSDAY ARRIVALS IN BALTRA ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
JAN 2020 |
FEB 2020 |
MAR 2020 |
APR 2020 |
MAY 2020 |
JUN 2020 |
|
JUL 2020 |
AUG 2020 |
SEP 2020 |
OCT 2020 |
NOV 2020 |
DEC 2020 |
INCLUDES
-
Assistance at the Quito Airport by the staff of the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
-
One Night at the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel with breakfast and tax
-
Assistance at the Quito Airport by the staff of the Santa Cruz II to receive delivery of cruise documentation
PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED – UNTIL DEC 31, 2020
| DOUBLE | TRIPLE1 | QUAD (2 BDR) | CHILD | SINGLE SUPPLEMENT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $89.00 | $73.00 | $89.00 | $89.00 | $69.00 |
INCLUDES
-
Assistance at the Quito Airport by the staff of the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel
-
Two Nights at the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel with breakfast and tax (One on arrival date, and one upon return from the cruise)
-
Assistance at the Quito Airport by the staff of the Santa Cruz II to receive delivery of cruise documentation
PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED – UNTIL DEC 31, 2020
| DOUBLE | TRIPLE1 | QUAD (2 BDR) | CHILD | SINGLE SUPPLEMENT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $178.00 | $145.00 | $178.00 | $178.00 | $138.00 |
INCLUDES
-
Meet & greet service at the Quito Airport
-
Private Transfer Quito Airport/ Hotel
-
Shared Transfer Quito Hotel/ Airport
-
Two Nights in Quito at the first class Dann Carlton Hotel with breakfast & tax
-
Guided Quito City Tour & Middle of the World Monument
-
English-speaking Guide Service during tours and excursions
-
On-site logistical support services of our corresponding in-country offices to quickly address any unforeseen situation and provide the necessary assistance as the case may require
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 | Welcome to Quito, Ecuador!
Meet and greet service upon arrival to the Quito Airport by your local host for your private transfer to the first class Dann Carlton Hotel for a two-night stay with breakfast and taxes included.
DAY 2 | Quito City Tour & Middle of the World Monument | B.
Following an early morning breakfast, we head out to Quito’s old town, or Centro Histórico, declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1978. We begin with one of Quito’s highlights: its breathtaking views. At Alameda Park and the Basilica, we will admire the staggering hills on which the city was founded followed by a walk along one of Quito’s oldest streets, García Moreno (also known as the Street of the Seven Crosses), which dates back to pre-Columbian times. As we reach Quito’s main square, Independence Plaza, we take a peek inside the Presidential Palace, the main Cathedral, La Compañía Church (considered one of the continent’s most spectacular monumental buildings), San Francisco Church (the oldest in Quito and the largest religious complex in South America), and its spectacular cobblestone square. Around midday, we head north to the Equator to visit the ‘Mitad Del Mundo’ (Middle of the World) monument. You may choose to visit the Ethnographic or Inti-ñan Museums, both located near the monument site, which highlights the particularities of being situated right at the meeting point of two hemispheres, straddling the Equator. Upon completion of the tour, head back to Quito and your hotel.
DAY 3 | Quito Hotel / Quito Airport to begin Galapagos Cruise | B.
At the appropriate time, your local host will provide you with a shared transfer to the Quito Airport to board your flight to the Galapagos (airfare is NOT included). Upon arrival at the Galapagos airport you will be met by your local host and transferred to the ship to begin your cruise.
NOTE: Tour stops may be different than those listed
PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED – UNTIL DEC 31, 2020
| DOUBLE | TRIPLE1 | QUAD (2 BDR) | CHILD | SINGLE SUPPLEMENT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $382.00 | $327.00 | $382.00 | $362.00 | $315.00 |
INCLUDES
-
Meet & greet service at the Quito Airport
-
Private Transfer Quito Airport/ Hotel
-
Shared Transfer Quito Hotel/ Airport
-
Three Nights in Quito at the first class Dann Carlton with breakfast & tax
-
Guided Quito City Tour & Middle of the World Monument
-
Guided Excursion to the Otavalo Market with lunch
-
English-speaking Guide Service during tours and excursions
-
On-site logistical support services of our corresponding in-country offices to quickly address any unforeseen situation and provide the necessary assistance as the case may require
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 | Welcome to Quito, Ecuador!
Meet and greet service upon arrival to the Quito Airport by your local host for your private transfer to the first class Dann Carlton Hotel for a three-night stay with breakfast and taxes included.
DAY 2 | Quito City Tour & Middle of the World Monument | B.
Following an early morning breakfast, we head out to Quito’s old town, or Centro Histórico, declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1978. We begin with one of Quito’s highlights: its breathtaking views. At Alameda Park and the Basilica, we will admire the staggering hills on which the city was founded followed by a walk along one of Quito’s oldest streets, García Moreno (also known as the Street of the Seven Crosses), which dates back to pre-Columbian times. As we reach Quito’s main square, Independence Plaza, we take a peek inside the Presidential Palace, the main Cathedral, La Compañía Church (considered one of the continent’s most spectacular monumental buildings), San Francisco Church (the oldest in Quito and the largest religious complex in South America), and its spectacular cobblestone square. Around midday, we head north to the Equator to visit the ‘Mitad Del Mundo’ (Middle of the World) monument. You may choose to visit the Ethnographic or Inti-ñan Museums, both located near the monument site, which highlights the particularities of being situated right at the meeting point of two hemispheres, straddling the Equator. Upon completion of the tour, head back to Quito and your hotel.
DAY 3 | Andean Countryside and the Otavalo Market Excursion | B.L.
We begin our travels north of Quito, towards the town of Otavalo; a series of stops will be made along the way. We begin with Mira Lago, a rest stop that offers unparalleled views of the San Pablo Lake and the imposing Imbabura Volcano. Our journey continues to the Otavalo Market and the Plaza de los Ponchos. The history of the Otavalo Market dates back to the 16th century, when the indigenous merchants played a crucial role as traders and travelling salesmen; today it is one of the biggest and best known in Ecuador offerings of textiles, jewelry, musical instruments, crafts and more. Our next stop is at the Miguel Andrango’s workshop for a closer look into the process of producing intricate and beautiful textiles. A visit to the vegetable market is also part of today’s activity program; here you can get up close and personal with the hundreds of ingredients and products that form the basis for some of its most traditional Ecuadorian dishes. Take a shot at bartering with the vendors to get the best price on some of Ecuador’s top fruits and favorite vegetables. Be sure to sample some exotic fruits, such as passion fruit, the capulí (Andean cherry), or tree tomato. Afterwards, a brief visit is planned for the Casa de Musica Andina; a cultural education project which promotes activities for children and young people from rural communities.
After of all of these experiential journeys, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at Hacienda Pinsaqui, a 300 year old Estate where the Chefs prepare fresh meals with organic, fresh local and seasonal ingredients aim to please the most demanding tastes through varied menus. Return to Quito in the afternoon.
DAY 4 | Quito Hotel / Quito Airport to begin Galapagos Cruise | B.
At the appropriate time, your local host will provide you with a shared transfer to the Quito Airport to board your flight to the Galapagos (airfare is NOT included). Upon arrival at the Galapagos airport you will be met by your local host and transferred to the ship to begin your cruise.
NOTE: Tour stops may be different than those listed
PRICES PER PERSON IN US$ – NO MINIMUM GUESTS REQUIRED – UNTIL DEC 31, 2020
| DOUBLE | TRIPLE1 | QUAD (2 BDR) | CHILD | SINGLE SUPPLEMENT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $721.00 | $606.00 | $721.00 | $679.00 | $568.00 |
In Galapagos Islands: M/V Santa Cruz II. The Santa Cruz II has five spacious decks, with modern interiors designed by renowned ship designer, Richard Nilsson. Created with stylish simplicity at its heart, while ensuring for sumptuous surroundings from which to take in the magnificent vistas of the enchanted islands.
The boat will sleep 90 guests in 50 contemporary designed cabins across three decks. Guests can choose from luxuriously appointed single, double and triple cabins, or opt for one of the three even more exclusive Darwin Suites, an exceptional standard of accommodation on the Panorama Deck, where guests will receive elevated service and carefully refined extras such as a take-home Galápagos coffee table book, a tablet loan for each cabin.
While aboard the new Santa Cruz II, guests can relax in the beautifully designed communal areas and viewing platforms, including indoor and outdoor dining options, two lounge bars, a well-stocked library, two indulgent ocean view hot tubs and a state of the art gym.
M/V Santa Cruz II Plans
- Prices are subject to change without previous notice.
- The itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, safety, and local regulations.
- Deposit: A $900.00 per person deposit is required to activate the booking process. Due to the popularity of the destination and the high demand for space, early reservations are strongly encouraged. Additional deposits may be required by suppliers, if so you will be notified.
- None of the services have been requested nor confirmed at this time (unless otherwise indicated). If the selected hotels are not available, we will make our best effort to obtain the next best available hotel in the same city/region. We should have confirmation of the suggested services and facilities and/or suitable alternatives within 48 hours after receiving your deposit, which will be applied to the final payment.
- Final Payment: The balance is due 90 days prior to the start of your tour. If full final payment has not been received by the due date, EcoAmerica Tours reserves the right to cancel the reservation without notice.
- Method of Payment: For your convenience, we accept major credit cards (filling out our Credit Card Authorization Form), checks, and PayPal.
- The price does not include: personal expenses, additional activities, international and local airfares as well as airports departure taxes (unless otherwise indicated), gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, bell and wait staff, and any other service not listed. The Galapagos National Park Fee ($100.00 per person) and the Galapagos Immigration Card ($20.00 per person), as well as Fuel Surcharges (if any) are not included.
- Airfares, if any, booked through EcoAmerica Tours may require immediate ticketing, if so, you will be notified accordingly. In most cases, the airfare charge(s) will appear on your credit card statement as processed by the airline(s) used for your travel arrangements.
- Meal Codes: B = Breakfast. L = Lunch. D = Dinner.
- All tour services are SIB shared basis (unless otherwise indicated).
- Please refer to the attached terms and conditions as presented in the credit card authorization form and in our website: Terms of Travel. These terms apply in full to this travel program.
- Travel Protection Plan: Travel insurance is a great way to protect your travel investment. By choosing to offer travel insurance, your travel agent is providing you a financial safety net for most unforeseen travel inconveniences. Allianz Travel Insurance plans have been created to suit most any traveler’s coverage needs. For your peace of mind, we strongly suggest you to purchase travel insurance. For more information, please visit: Allianz Global Assistance or contact us for a personalized quote.
TAKING ADVANTAGE OF OUR FULL SERVICE PLATFORM:
One of the main advantages of booking your trip through your Travel Consultant and the destination specialists at EcoAmerica Tours is that you do not have to spend countless frustrating hours looking on-line for hotels, point-to-point transportation, attractions, entrance fees, excursions, and much more. The second is that when traveling with us, you can be certain that we will be with you throughout your trip to continue assisting you and making sure that each one of the services included in your reservation are flawlessly delivered. When traveling with us, you will be talking to a real person who will demystify the travel components and will provide you with information that makes you knowledgeable and informed. When traveling with us you will get real value, just like countless travelers before you. We encourage you to visit the Reviews and Testimonials section in our website.
Working with your Travel Consultant and EcoAmerica Tours means being involved in a different way of doing tourism and comes with the following benefits:
- Celebrating three decades leading the tourism industry in Latin America.
- Regional coverage and exclusive tailor-made programs.
- Fast, friendly and efficient response to your requirements.
- Always available: emergency line and operational offices 24H/7D.
- We care about our guests: EcoAmerica Assistance Network.
- Top guides and the best transportation quality.
- Quality Control Department: care to passengers’ voice.
- Top Producer and great relationship with key suppliers.
- Positive impact of our operations at all levels.
LIABILITIES
EcoAmerica Tours, LLC. and/or any of its agents will not claim any responsibility for injury, damage, loss, additional expenses, accidental delay or other irregularities which may be caused either through willful or negligent acts or omissions on the part of companies or individuals providing or engaged in transportation, accommodations or other services related to the execution of the tour, or through natural calamities and other factors beyond its control. Prices are subject to adjustment in the event of any change, without notice. EcoAmerica Tours, LLC reserves the right to change any tour if considered necessary in order to render better service to its clients. Travelers choosing to participate in these vacation programs do so at their own risk. EcoAmerica Tours is not to be held responsible for injuries, damage expenses, and/or costs resulting from accidents or accidental death while participating in these vacation programs. Travelers have been directed to read these disclaimers. EcoAmerica Tours, LLC
