Santa Cruz II, Galapagos Islands Iconic Wildlife & Sublime Scenery ex Quito to Guayaquil

4 Night Cruise sailing from Baltra roundtrip onboard Santa Cruz II. Hotel stay pre-cruise in Quito.

Cruise Overview:

Beautiful Quito
Quito is one of South America’s most alluring capitals and a World Heritage City of graceful Spanish-era architecture, packed with cosy restaurants and artisanal shops. With two overnights here, you’ll have time to taste delicious Ecuadorian specialities and stroll through colourful markets brimming with local handicrafts. On the second day here you’ll visit Quito´s historic centre on a guided tour and go to the ‘Middle of the World City’ where you can stand with one foot either side of the Equator.

Darwin’s islands of evolution
Your expedition cruise begins after a flight from Quito to Baltra Island in Galápagos for an incredible sea adventure. In the Galápagos Islands, you’ll visit the isles of Isabela, Floreana, Fernandina and Santa Cruz islands, each a unique illustration of evolution in action. Experience an array of ecosystems within picturesque landscapes, and see famed wildlife such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, Nazca Boobies and Darwin’s iconic finches. Your ship, MS Santa Cruz II, is one of the few vessels operating in Galápagos that comes equipped with a full range of exploration tools, including panga boats, kayaks, snorkelling gear, stand-up paddleboards and even a glass-bottom boat.

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

From the magnificent fjords of Norway to the awesome ice-filled bays of Antarctica, Hurtigruten is renowned for its comprehensive collection of voyages to remote, beautiful and dramatic coastlines from the far north to the distant south.

There is an air of history about the Norwegian coastal voyage run by Hurtigruten. It has always been a part of coastal life, has always arrived at the ports and has always been there to rely on for more than 119 years. The ships take children to their christenings, newly-weds on their honeymoons and carry milk and vegetables to remote island communities. Works by recognized artists have helped the new ships gain renown as floating galleries. The Norwegian Coastal Voyage is a unique combination of first-class passenger ship and working ship. It is the perfect alternative to the traditional cruise for the independent, seasoned traveler. Enjoy a panoramic view of ever-changing, breathtaking scenery from the comfort of a deck chair or a chair in the lounge.

There is always something happening... without much really happening at all. The ships travel at 16 knots, which means that you always have time to enjoy the journey, to make new friends and to relax and take in the wonders of this wonderful journey.

'The World's Most Beautiful Voyage' is not just a phrase someone invented. They were just stating a fact.