The Galapagos Islands, a spectacular and pristine destination unique to the world is located in the Pacific Ocean (600 miles, 1000Km) off the coast of Ecuador. These islands are a living natural laboratory of evolution. The Galapagos are a cluster of 13 main islands and dozens of smaller islets and rocks- all the result of volcanic activity.

These Enchanted islands are the home to numerous unique and extraordinary species of flora and fauna that have developed without human influence. Many of these species in the Galapagos exist nowhere else on earth.

The Galapagos offers not only the wonder of its naturalist sites, but also the mystery of its amazing underwater adventures. The marine life is fascinating for those that enjoy snorkeling and the Galapagos Islands are consistently ranked among the top dive destinations in the world year after year.

Rules and Regulations
As part of the National Park’s regulations, a naturalist guide will accompany you during the entire visit to the islands. He will thoroughly inform you about what a visitor is allowed and not allowed to do. PLEASE follow the rules in order to preserve the paradise you are enjoying for the future generations.

• Do not remove or disturb any plant, rock or animal on the islands.
• Be careful not to transport any live material to the islands or from island to Island. Check your clothing for seeds and insects before disembarking the ship for shore.
• Do not touch the animals.
• Do not feed the animals.
• Always remain on the path where designated.
• Always remain with your guide where required.
• Do not startle or chase any animal from its nest or resting place. Be extremely careful in and around breeding colonies.
• Do not force your way through dense bush or thickets. This will destroy the plant life and seeds may become lodged on your person.
• Do not litter on land or from the vessel whilst at sea.
• Do not buy souvenirs made from any native animal part, coral or plant except certain woods.
• Do not write graffiti or deface rocks and plants on the islands.
• Sand carried by shoes or bare feet to the boat can cause serious problems ranging from transportation of insect eggs and seeds from one island to another, to the obstruction of the pipeline system. So before boarding the yacht please thoroughly clean off any sand particles.
• Always remain on the designated path.

The Galapagos Islands are one of the last frontiers left on earth where man and nature can intermingle in a reverent way. The natural beauty and vast landscapes are breathtaking for both young and old. Sitting on the equator , and 600 miles west of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands offers natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes that few have the opportunity to experience. From the many topside activities to the magical underwater world the Islands are not to be missed.

There are two different and equally fulfilling ways to visit the Galapagos. Topside attractions abound while many visit the islands to experience the wonders of the world beneath the sea that has given the Galapagos the name as the Holy Grail for divers.

The Galapagos Islands consist of 13 major islands, 8 smaller islands, and 40 islets. Many of these islands are uninhabited by man but are a bustling metropolis for creatures both large and small. Many of these creatures are found only in the Galapagos. They arrived in the islands long ago by riding the Humboldt Current that originates in the very southern part of the globe for thousands of miles to end up in this string of islands. Some have thrived while others have not in a place that adheres to the saying that the strongest survive.

The Galapagos Islands are a place where the animals go about their lives without the threats of man. They have adapted to an environment that has strict laws governing human and animal interaction. Because of the strict regulations there is no fear from many of the animals. Sea lions, iguanas, and too many bird species to mention can be seen at a very close distance. There is no better place on earth for such up close and personal encounters. The governing regulations require that a naturalist guide accompany visitors to the outer islands while on land excursions. It is because of these types of rules that the Galapagos has thrived as a destination for travelers wanting to experience the wonders of nature in a non-contrived atmosphere. The rules and regulations are very strictly enforced and this is the principle reason why the Galapagos National Park has one of the most well preserved ecosystems on earth.

Each cruise is designed to maximize the passengers experience in the Islands. For many people, a vacation to the Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity and one not to be squandered. There are many different itineraries that offer a wide range of options.

Some visitors to the Galapagos Islands go for one reason, the scuba diving. The diving is as diverse and spectacular as the wonders above the water. There are two distinct regions frequented by divers.

The central region is suitable for most skill levels and offers and abundant array of marine life. The water temperatures can range from the low sixties to the low seventies depending on the time of year. Divers interact with playful sea lions and very frequently see white tip sharks, spotted eagle rays, turtles and other tropical fish. During the months of January – June Manta Rays are often seen by divers when the waters tend to warm up a bit.

The northern region is the main attraction for those divers seeking adventure and something out of the ordinary. The two main scuba destinations in the north are the islands of Wolf and Darwin. These two small, uninhabited islands are only accessible by live-aboard dive vessels. The waters are warmer in the north than in the central region, but keep in mind, this is not your typical Caribbean or South Pacific Diving. This area is only recommended for very experienced divers. The main attraction is large pelagic marine life and is seen year round. Hammerhead sharks school by the hundreds while large and curious Galapagos sharks swim with divers at every turn. Dolphins, silky sharks, spotted eagle rays, turtles, eels, and other fish can all be seen on any one dive at Wolf & Darwin.

The areas of Wolf and Darwin have two distinct seasons unto themselves. January-June finds the waters at a calmer state with greater visibility and topside sunshine. Between the months of July and December the waters are much rougher with larger swells and the skies are cloudy with misting rain. During the rainy months, divers vie for a spot on a live-aboard dive vessel, as they tend to sell out well in advance. Even though whale sharks are seen year round, they are most common during the rainy months in the north. Most live-aboard charters visit both the central and northern region during the weeklong charters. Divers will have ample opportunities for land excursions so that they can experience both the topside and underwater magic that has given the Galapagos Islands the name "The Enchanted Islands".

7 nights cruise (Sun / Sun)