Cruise · HX Expeditions · 10 nights

Nine of the Best Isles (Western and Northern Route)

Flights, hotels, and Quito tours included
Relax in the cozy yet classy MS Santa Cruz II
Explore the Galapagos with naturalist guides

$13,573 pp twin share

$19,337 pp solo share

10 nights

Enquire

1/ 16

Pristine Santiago Island

Nine of the Best Isles (Western and Northern Route) – route map

Quito – city of eternal spring

Visit historic Quito

Your cruise begins

Wildlife-rich Isabela and Fernandina

Darwin’s Santa Cruz

Picturesque Floreana

Relax in Baltra

Stunning Rábida & Bartolomé

Genovesa, a bird paradise

One last adventure

MS Santa Cruz II

Cruise Snapshot

10 Nights

Explore nine of the Galapagos Islands on an all-inclusive 11-day expedition cruise, with flights, hotels, and guided tours in Quito included

Visit nine Galapagos Islands to see unique wildlife
Learn from expert naturalist guides about the islands
Sail aboard the comfortable MS Santa Cruz II

Trip Details

Departs: 29 September 2026
Returns: 6 April 2029
Embarks
Ship: MS Santa Cruz II
Operator: HX Expeditions

11-day all-inclusive Galápagos expedition cruise with round-trip flights from Quito

The 8-night Galapagos voyage aboard MS Santa Cruz II sails round trip from Seymour, calling at Dragon Hill, Punta Vicente Roca, Punta Espinoza, Fernandina Island, Puerto Ayora, Isla Santa Cruz, Baroness Tower, Floreana Island, Punta Cormorant, Las Bachas, Santa Cruz Island, Buccaneer Cove, Puerto Egas and Rabida Island.

Beyond the expedition cruise itself, this package includes:

Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, and Baltra and Quito, including all taxes
Two hotel nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast, and dinner on Day 2
Transfers between the airport and the hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise
Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra
Full-day excursion: Historic Quito & Middle of the World, including lunch, before the expedition cruise
Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
Transit Control Card for the Galápagos Islands
Access to the airport lounge at the Quito (or Guayaquil) airport upon return from the Galápagos Islands for guests flying internationally on the day of disembarkation

Visit nine of the most alluring Galápagos Islands.
See the unique wildlife of Galápagos, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas as you visit the islands of Baltra, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Fernandina, Floreana, Santiago, Rábida, Bartolomé and Genovesa.
Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert Expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides.

You sail aboard MS Santa Cruz II. When exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, guests will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The relatively small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You will easily feel at home onboard. On board: 50 cabins and suites and space for maximum 90 guests; Science Center; Library; Observation decks; Restaurant; Lounge & bar; Two hot tubs; Fitness room.

$13,573

pp twin share

$19,337

pp solo share

Enquire

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When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs

29 September 2026

Returns

6 April 2029

Duration

10 nights

From pp twin share

$13,573 pp

From pp solo cabin

$19,337 pp

29 Sep 2026 - 09 Oct 2026
from $13,708 pp twin share / $19,539 pp sole use *
13 Oct 2026 - 23 Oct 2026
from $15,111 pp twin share / $21,644 pp sole use *
27 Oct 2026 - 06 Nov 2026
from $15,111 pp twin share / $21,644 pp sole use *
10 Nov 2026 - 20 Nov 2026
from $15,813 pp twin share / $22,697 pp sole use *
24 Nov 2026 - 04 Dec 2026
from $15,111 pp twin share / $21,644 pp sole use *
08 Dec 2026 - 18 Dec 2026
from $14,409 pp twin share / $20,591 pp sole use *
05 Jan 2027 - 15 Jan 2027
from $13,708 pp twin share / $19,539 pp sole use *
19 Jan 2027 - 29 Jan 2027
from $13,708 pp twin share / $19,539 pp sole use *
02 Feb 2027 - 12 Feb 2027
from $13,708 pp twin share / $19,539 pp sole use *
16 Feb 2027 - 26 Feb 2027
from $13,708 pp twin share / $19,539 pp sole use *
02 Mar 2027 - 12 Mar 2027
from $15,111 pp twin share / $21,644 pp sole use *
16 Mar 2027 - 26 Mar 2027
from $13,573 pp twin share / $19,337 pp sole use *
30 Mar 2027 - 09 Apr 2027
from $15,947 pp twin share / $22,758 pp sole use *
13 Apr 2027 - 23 Apr 2027
from $16,342 pp twin share / $23,350 pp sole use *
27 Apr 2027 - 07 May 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
11 May 2027 - 21 May 2027
from $15,947 pp twin share / $22,758 pp sole use *
25 May 2027 - 04 Jun 2027
from $18,630 pp twin share / $26,783 pp sole use *
08 Jun 2027 - 18 Jun 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
22 Jun 2027 - 02 Jul 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
06 Jul 2027 - 16 Jul 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
20 Jul 2027 - 30 Jul 2027
from $15,474 pp twin share / $22,049 pp sole use *
03 Aug 2027 - 13 Aug 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
17 Aug 2027 - 27 Aug 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
31 Aug 2027 - 10 Sep 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
14 Sep 2027 - 24 Sep 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
26 Oct 2027 - 05 Nov 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
09 Nov 2027 - 19 Nov 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
23 Nov 2027 - 03 Dec 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
07 Dec 2027 - 17 Dec 2027
from $14,685 pp twin share / $20,865 pp sole use *
21 Dec 2027 - 31 Dec 2027
from $17,036 pp twin share / $24,388 pp sole use *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Life in transit

MS Santa Cruz II

Details · HX Expeditions

MS Santa Cruz II

When exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, guests will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The relatively small size - with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You will easily feel at home onboard.

Guests: 90
Gross tonnage: 2,664
Speed: 10.5 knots
Length: 71.8 m
Launched: 2002
Beam: 13.4 m
Deck plans: 5

MS Santa Cruz II · Deck plans

Deck 4 — Sky Deck

Source: HX Expeditions, captured 16 September 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.

Day by day

Itinerary

1
Vibrant Quito
Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Quito
Your journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s packed with well-preserved colonial architecture as evidenced in colourful plazas, magnificent churches and handsome monuments. Settle into your hotel, then head out to explore.
Settle into your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay.
If you have time, why not come a few days earlier and join our pre-voyage option.
2
Visit historic Quito
Straddle the Equator at the Middle of the World City
Today you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s remarkable Old Town. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample some delicious chocolate made from finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way.
Next, you’ll head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, you’ll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line of the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere.
3
Your cruise begins
Get ready to explore the spectacular Galápagos Islands
As your South America land adventure draws to a close, it’s time to embark on the next stage of your journey. After breakfast, a short flight will take you to Baltra Island in the spectacular Galápagos archipelago. A transfer brings you straight to the port where your comfortable expedition ship MS Santa Cruz II awaits.
In the afternoon we’ll begin our exploration of the Galápagos Islands following the north shore of Santa Cruz towards the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón, meaning ‘Dragon Hill’, where we’ll land. The first part of the walk here passes by a brackish lagoon that’s frequented by shorebirds and American flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as a chance to get a first look at some land iguanas.
4
Wildlife-rich Isabela and Fernandina
Scan the coastline and seas for iconic species
You’ll start your day at Punta Vicente Roca, on the northwestern tip of Isabela Island. After breakfast, we’ll explore the coast by small boat, learning about the dramatic geology of the area from your naturalist guides.
This site is a nesting place for several bird species, so look out for flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and boobies. Weather permitting, you’ll get to snorkel alongside the cliffs, where you might find green sea turtles, oceanic sun fish, and fur seals.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Fernandina, an island with a unique ecology and a big population of marine iguanas. Scan the coast for sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hawks, and penguins.
5
Darwin’s Santa Cruz
Meet the famous giant tortoises of Galápagos
Today, you’ll explore Santa Cruz Island. In the morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.
A giant tortoise breeding centre, here you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin’s famous finches: the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There’s also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that’s home to many land birds.
Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools.
You'll have time for another activity, including mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.
6
Picturesque Floreana
Discover Galápagos history and underwater wildlife
After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a small boat ride among the channels on Floreana’s north shore, before taking in the incredible views of the island from Baroness Cove. Later on, we’ll land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries.
After lunch, you’ll explore the wonders around Champion Islet in a small boat or aboard our glass-bottom boat. Here, you can snorkel in one of the best spots in the archipelago.
From there, it’s onwards to Cormorant Point, where we’ll take a walk from an olivine-crystal beach to a brackish lagoon, where you can commonly see American flamingos, pintail ducks, and more.
7
Relax in Baltra
Unwind and recharge your batteries
Relax on board while we anchor off Baltra Island. After four days of exploring the unique nature and environments of the Galápagos, it is the moment to pause for a while and recharge your batteries for the days ahead. Make use of the many onboard facilities, flick through the books in the library or exercise in the gym; it’s up to you.
In the afternoon, we’ll land at Las Bachas beach, located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. This glorious white beach with turquoise waters is a great place to spot iconic Galápagos wildlife like flamingos and sea turtles. Enjoy swimming or snorkelling before heading back to the ship for an expedition briefing about the following day.
8
Pristine Santiago Island
See iconic wildlife and spectacular landscapes
Today you’ll explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop.’
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of Galápagos fur seals and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or you could just swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically, in the company of marine turtles.
9
Stunning Rábida & Bartolomé
Soak up the sights and sounds of the Galápagos
Your day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago. You can go for a thrilling small boat ride along the coast explore the island’s mesmerising, red-coloured beach. Soak up the sights and sounds made by a colony of sea lions, and watch for marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and several species of Darwin’s finches.
In the afternoon, we’ll sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. You can swim or snorkel off the beach here, discover colourful marine life from our glass-bottom boat, or watch for Galápagos penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.
10
Genovesa, a bird paradise
Discover a birdlife haven and take a refreshing dip
Today you’ll explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb – only 90 feet – up Prince Philip’s Steps, known as El Barranco, to reach flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and look out for large colonies of Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds, and storm petrels. Afterwards or instead, hop into a kayak for some aquatic adventuring.
In the afternoon, we’ll land and swim at the beautiful beach that fringes Darwin Bay for a swim. Following this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds, or alternatively just take it easy on the beach, swimming, snorkelling, or kayaking.
11
One last adventure
See giant tortoises in the wild
We start our last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. A dry landing at a passenger wharf and a bus ride to the loftier region of the island will provide a final highlight of your expedition cruise: giant tortoises in the wild.
The windward slopes of the island are set aside as a reserve that’s home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands also feature dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids and bromeliads.
After this visit we’ll transfer directly to the airport in Baltra for your flight to Quito – or if you prefer, to Guayaquil – to connect to your international flight.
To explore more of Ecuador, why not extend your stay and join one of our post-voyage options.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

Flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, and Baltra and Quito, including all taxes.
Two hotel nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast, and dinner on Day 2.
Transfers between the airport and the hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise.
Transfers between the airport and the ship in Baltra.
Full-day excursion: Historic Quito & Middle of the World, including lunch, before the expedition cruise.
Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee.

Not included

International flights
Travel insurance
Luggage handling
Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings

Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

Hotels

Two hotel nights in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast, and dinner on Day 2

Days 1-2 – Jw Marriott Quito

MS Santa Cruz II

On board: 50 cabins and suites and space for maximum 90 guests; Science Center; Library; Observation decks; Restaurant; Lounge & bar; Two hot tubs; Fitness room; Sun deck; Expedition boats; Stand Up Paddle boards; Snorkeling Gear; Glass bottom boat; Kayaks.

Unspesific cabin

Unspecified cabin for 2 people.

VH – Voyager cabin: large windows, one single bed and one couch, 12 m².

Explorer Cabins

With a large window that illuminates the interior and allows you to take in the views as we cruise, these cabins offer an elegant and comfortable space to relax in after a day of active exploring.
They feature a single bed, and all have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, as well as a safe and USA two-pin plug sockets.

EP – Explorer cabin: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 15 m².
EE – Explorer cabin: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 15 m².
EH – Explorer cabin: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 14–15 m².
FH – Explorer family cabin: large windows, double bed, optional twin, 17 m².
VH – Voyager cabin: large windows, one single bed and one couch, 12 m².

Darwin Suites

Add some indulgence to your voyage aboard MS Santa Cruz II and reserve one of our Darwin Suites.

With two large windows, you’ll enjoy superb views in premium comfort.
These spacious suites feature double beds that can be divided into two single beds on request at the time of booking, as well as a sofa bed suitable for a child under the age of 12. If more space is needed, these rooms can be interconnected with an Explorer cabin.
All have private bathrooms with a shower and toiletries, a safe, and USA two-pin plug sockets. There’s a daily turn-down service, and you’ll also get a welcome gift in the form of a Galápagos wildlife book.