Alya Catamaran
Discover the "Enchanted Islands" aboard the luxurious M/C Alya Cruise, also known as "The Jewel of Galápagos," a vessel that embodies the perfection, beauty, and uniqueness of this exotic paradise. Enjoy the majesty of a one-of-a-kind experience, exquisite cuisine, and personalized service in a comfortable and exclusive setting.
This ship was crafted with the highest standards of quality in navigation, incorporating cutting-edge technology to showcase the very best of the Galápagos Islands. With meticulous attention to detail, you’ll experience a whole new level of luxury as you sail through the archipelago.
Itinerary
Itinerary A | 5 Days 4 Nights
DAY 1
AM: ARRIVAL AT BALTRA AIRPORT
Today, your journey to the fascinating Galápagos Islands begins. Upon arrival at Baltra Airport, you will be greeted by our certified naturalist guide, who will be ready to introduce you to the iconic wonders of this unique archipelago.
PM: BLACK TURTLE COVE
To start our adventure in the Galápagos, we will visit Black Turtle Cove, named after its thriving population of green turtles. We will navigate this natural sanctuary by motorboats through lush mangroves and calm water channels. Here, you may spot reef sharks, various species of rays, and a wide range of birds, such as herons, pelicans, and boobies.
Highlights: White-tipped and black-tipped reef sharks, green sea turtles, rays, herons, blue-footed boobies, and mangroves.
DAY 2
AM: DARWIN BAY
The day begins surrounded by the lively birdlife of Darwin Bay on Genovesa Island, a paradise for birdwatchers. The trail crosses colonies of sea lions, marine iguanas, night herons, Darwin’s finches, mockingbirds, and more.
Route: 1.2 km / 0.7 mi
Level: 3
Activities: Wet landing and hiking
PM: THE CLIFFS
Eden Islet, true to its biblical name, evokes a paradise-like oasis. Located near Santa Cruz Island, this small islet boasts heavenly beaches and crystal-clear waters, reminiscent of the typical “uninhabited islet.” With a diameter of only 600 meters and its highest point reaching 77 meters, its small size contrasts with its immense charm, home to nine species of turtles.
DAY 3
AM: SULLIVAN BAY
Step back in time at Sullivan Bay, a geological window to the volcanic birth of these islands. Walk through the preserved Pahoehoe lava field, studying its delicate and unique textures. The seemingly barren landscape gradually reveals nature's resilience, with pioneering plants, lava lizards, and tiny birds emerging if observed carefully. Keep an eye on the coast for penguins, pelicans, and oystercatchers.
Route: 2.2 km / 1.4 mi
Level: 3
Activities: Dry landing and hiking
PM: BARTOLOME
Stand atop Bartolome Island to enjoy an unparalleled view of the lunar landscape, adorned with scattered volcanic cones, Pinnacle Rock, and Sullivan Bay.
Route: 1.5 km / 0.9 mi
Level: 2
Activities: Dry landing and hiking
DAY 4
AM: CHINESE HAT
Welcome to the perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone of Chinese Hat. Separated from Santiago by a narrow channel, this idyllic islet is framed by turquoise waters, coral sand beaches, and dark lava rocks, an unexpected refuge for penguins. A trail along the shore will bring you close to a small colony of sea lions.
Route: 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Level: 3
Activities: Wet landing and hiking
PM: MOSQUERA
Our afternoon destination is Mosquera, largely a barren sandbar with rocky outcrops and salt-resistant vegetation. Stroll along the beach and observe the playful sea lion pups in the surf and tide pools. Keep an eye out for lava gulls, endemic to the area, often seen in flight looking for their next meal.
Route: Sand area of 0.6 km / 0.4 mi
Level: 1
Activities: Wet landing and hiking
DAY 5
AM: CHARLES DARWIN STATION
Spend the morning at the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station. As a nonprofit organization working closely with the Galápagos National Park, the station is dedicated to conserving and studying the biodiversity of the archipelago. Discover the various initiatives underway to safeguard endemic species and combat invasive threats to the Galápagos ecosystem. This visit offers a unique opportunity to see giant tortoises raised in captivity.
