Bartolome Day Cruise
Tour description
Although Galapagos Penguins are the selling point, the amazing scenery and snorkel are all part of this phenomenal day.
This is one of the best day 'cruises' you can do...and the longest. A 6am pick-up in Puerto Ayora, followed by a ride over to the north of the island will get you on board in time for breakfast, served on the boat this morning.
The 2-hour trip over to Bartolome offers chances of whales and dolphins as well as other marine creatures and birds that might appear en route.
The views of Daphne Major Islet shortly after weighing anchor are precious, as you observe the perfect sea bird refuge, but these are nothing compared to the final approach in the vicinity of Bartolomé Island. The immense lava flow of Sullivan bay, on the main island of Santiago, just a couple of hundred meters from Bartolome, looks as though the eruption happened yesterday. A short walk on this flow will be the first activity, where the starkness of the barren inland sharply contrasts with the richer immediate coastline. At the edge of the lava, one can sight Sally lightfoot crabs, herons, blue-footed boobies and on many occasions, Galapagos Penguins.
The snorkel over white sand under the jutting lava flow uncovers a rich reef-like ecosystem where beautiful fish abound, Swimming with a hunting penguin is the aim for today though.
Following the snorkel will be a hike to the top of the magnificent Bartolome tuff cone, with the views and geological formations getting more spectacular as you climb. The grand finale affords the best ad most famous view in Galapagos: Pinnacle Rock with the two beaches and the backdrop of Sullivan Bay.
Once you return, a late lunch will ensue, followed by the return cruise. You should reach Puerto Ayora by around 17:30pm.
This is one of the best day 'cruises' you can do...and the longest. A 6am pick-up in Puerto Ayora, followed by a ride over to the north of the island will get you on board in time for breakfast, served on the boat this morning.
The 2-hour trip over to Bartolome offers chances of whales and dolphins as well as other marine creatures and birds that might appear en route.
The views of Daphne Major Islet shortly after weighing anchor are precious, as you observe the perfect sea bird refuge, but these are nothing compared to the final approach in the vicinity of Bartolomé Island. The immense lava flow of Sullivan bay, on the main island of Santiago, just a couple of hundred meters from Bartolome, looks as though the eruption happened yesterday. A short walk on this flow will be the first activity, where the starkness of the barren inland sharply contrasts with the richer immediate coastline. At the edge of the lava, one can sight Sally lightfoot crabs, herons, blue-footed boobies and on many occasions, Galapagos Penguins.
The snorkel over white sand under the jutting lava flow uncovers a rich reef-like ecosystem where beautiful fish abound, Swimming with a hunting penguin is the aim for today though.
Following the snorkel will be a hike to the top of the magnificent Bartolome tuff cone, with the views and geological formations getting more spectacular as you climb. The grand finale affords the best ad most famous view in Galapagos: Pinnacle Rock with the two beaches and the backdrop of Sullivan Bay.
Once you return, a late lunch will ensue, followed by the return cruise. You should reach Puerto Ayora by around 17:30pm.
Price
$220/person. This tour will always be part of a group of up to 16 people.
Specifics |
Find out more about this grading system.
|
Difficulty:
Value:
Main Highlight:
Best time of the year:
Best time of the day:
Type of vessel:
Food included:
National Park:
Value:
Main Highlight:
Best time of the year:
Best time of the day:
Type of vessel:
Food included:
National Park: