Tribute

AM: Baltra Airport 

Your Galapagos journey begins on Baltra Island, where our Oniric team welcomes you and escorts you to a private lounge to complete entry formalities. A naturalist guide then accompanies you to the harbor, where the elegant Galapagos Tribute awaits. Meet the
captain and crew, settle into your refined suite, and enjoy a gourmet lunch on board marking the start of an extraordinary, nature-filled voyage.

PM: Santa Cruz: Highlands

Venture into the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island, one of the best places to encounter giant Galapagos tortoises in their natural habitat. These ancient reptiles roam freely among the misty pastures and forested transition zones of the El Chato Reserve. You may also spot vibrant birdlife, such as the vermilion flycatcher or the elusive Galapagos rail, as you explore this verdant ecosystem nestled in volcanic terrain

AM: Mosquera Islet 

Between Baltra and North Seymour, Mosquera Islet offers a tranquil escape with its white coral beach and turquoise waters. Sea lions rest along the shore, while coastal birds and bright red Sally Lightfoot crabs bring the scene to life. Enjoy a peaceful walk or opt for a guided snorkeling session in the calm nearby channel perfect for spotting reef fish, rays, and even white-tipped sharks in this idyllic Galapagos setting.

PM:  South Plaza 

Step into the surreal landscape of South Plaza, where nature seems frozen in prehistoric time. Its striking scenery featuring vibrant sesuvium groundcover, towering prickly pear cacti, and cliffs teeming with seabirds is home to one of the largest populations of
land iguanas in the archipelago, also known as “Galapagos dragons.” Watch them bask under the equatorial sun, while swallow-tailed gulls and red-billed tropicbirds soar overhead.

AM: Cormorant Point & Champion Islet

Awaken off the coast of Floreana, an island rich in both natural beauty and historical mystique. A wet landing at Punta Cormorant brings you to a green-hued beach, its color derived from shimmering olivine crystals. A short walk across the island leads to a contrasting white coral beach, a nesting site for Pacific green sea turtles during the breeding season.
Just offshore, Champion Islet is a prime snorkeling destination. Its waters are alive with tropical fish, sea lions, and, with some luck, the curious Galapagos sea horse. The island is also one of the last refuges of the rare Floreana mockingbird.

PM: Post Office Bay & Baroness Lookout

After lunch, continue to Post Office Bay, where whalers in the 18th century left letters in a wooden barrel for passing ships to delivera tradition you’re invited to continue. Keep your eyes peeled for penguins, rays, and marine turtles along the shore.
Snorkel in the calm coastal waters, often frequented by penguins, turtles, and rays, offering intimate and playful wildlife encounters, or kayak along the scenic shoreline of the Baroness Lookout, gliding past mangroves and rocky outcrops in search of marine life and coastal birds.
Then, ascend Baroness Lookout, a scenic basalt cone offering sweeping views of Floreana’s coastal lagoons. This spot once enchanted Eloisa von Wagner Bosquet, the island’s infamous self-proclaimed “Baroness,” whose dramatic story adds a touch of
intrigue to the landscape.

AM: Punta Suarez

Española is a wildlife sanctuary of unparalleled richness. As you step onto Punta Suarez, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the world’s
most extraordinary birding sites. Encounter colonies of blue-footed and Nazca boobies, the bold Española mockingbird, Galapagos hawks, and, during nesting season, waved albatrosses performing their spectacular courtship rituals.
The trail winds past lava rock formations and leads to “El Soplador,” a natural blowhole where seawater explodes skyward from beneath the cliffs, creating a dramatic spectacle against the wild Pacific backdrop.

PM: Gardner Bay

Spend the afternoon on the postcard-perfect beach of Gardner Bay. Its powdery white sands invite you to relax under the sun, while sea lions play in the shallows. Offshore, explore vibrant underwater realms where eagle rays, reef sharks, parrotfish, and graceful sea turtles glide among coral-covered rocks—one of the finest snorkeling sites in the archipelago. Kayak along the coast, paddling in the company of sea lions, marine birds, and curious fish.

AM: Interpretation Center & Frigatebird Hill

Your journey concludes on San Cristobal Island, the political capital of the Galapagos. A visit to the Interpretation Center offers valuable insight into the human history and conservation efforts of the islands
through compelling exhibits and visual storytelling.
After the visit, you’ll be transferred to the San Cristobal airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador, bringing to a close your unforgettable journey aboard the Galapagos Tribute.

AM: Arrival at San Cristobal & Welcome Aboard

Your journey begins as you arrive at San Cristobal Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by an Oniric Cruises guide who will assist with Galapagos entry formalities, including the National Park entrance fee
(unless pre-arranged). After a short transfer to the harbor, you’ll board the Galapagos Tribute, your elegant home at sea.
A warm welcome from the captain and crew awaits as you settle into your suite and enjoy a delicious lunch on board, surrounded by your first views of this pristine archipelago.

PM: Lobos Islet

Your journey begins as you arrive at San Cristobal Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by an Oniric Cruises guide who will assist with Galapagos entry formalities, including the National Park entrance fee
(unless pre-arranged). After a short transfer to the harbor, you’ll board the Galapagos Tribute, your elegant home at sea.
A warm welcome from the captain and crew awaits as you settle into your suite and enjoy a delicious lunch on board, surrounded by your first views of this pristine archipelago.

AM: Santa Fe

Nestled in the heart of the archipelago, Santa Fe is known for its towering prickly pear cacti, which create a dramatic backdrop for encounters with Galapagos hawks, land iguanas, and inquisitive sea
lions.
A short trail brings you through the cactus forest and offers panoramic coastal views. Back at Barrington Bay, you may snorkel in crystalline waters teeming with reef fish, stingrays, turtles, and white-tipped reef sharks. Or, for a different perspective, kayak along the shore where cliffs, coves, and submerged lava structures reveal hidden marine life just below the surface

PM: Santa Cruz: Black Turtle Cove

This tranquil lagoon, surrounded by red, white, and black mangroves, is best explored by dinghy, offering a serene and silent experience.
Keep your camera ready for Pacific green turtles surfacing between mangrove roots, spotted eagle rays gliding in formation, and baby reef sharks navigating shallow inlets.
The calm waters and dense vegetation of Black Turtle Cove reveal an ecosystem in balancea vital nursery for many marine species and a photographer’s paradise.

AM: Darwin Bay

Overnight navigation brings you to the remote northern island of Genovesa, a partially submerged volcanic caldera and a crown jewel of birdwatching. Darwin Bay offers a compact but vibrant display of Galapagos biodiversity, from red-footed boobies nesting in the mangroves to yellow warblers, finches, and sea lions dotting the tide line.
Following your nature walk, you may choose to snorkel in the protected bay where sightings of hammerhead sharks, jacks, and turtles are not uncommon or kayak along the towering volcanic walls of the inner caldera for an unforgettable perspective of this geological marvel.

PM: Prince Philip’s Steps

Climb the lava stairway at Prince Philip’s Steps to reach a plateau that is home to one of the largest colonies of red-footed and Nazca boobies. This site is also your best chance to spot the short-eared owl,
which stalks prey silently from the ground.
The surrounding cliffs are alive with seabirds in flight, creating an unforgettable symphony of sound and color in this remote sanctuary once favored by royalty.

AM: Chinese Hat Islet

This young volcanic islet, named for its distinctive cone shape, is a fascinating site of geological and ecological rebirth. Pioneer plant species grow among lava fields, supported by sea lions, marine iguanas, and Galapagos hawks that enrich the soil.
Snorkeling here is superb, with excellent chances of swimming alongside Galapagos penguins, sea lions, and green sea turtles. The shallow, protected bay allows for long, unhurried exploration of lava tunnels and coral structures teeming with life

PM: Rabida Island

With its distinctive red sand beach, Rabida offers an otherworldly landscape framed by cliffs and mangroves that shelter songbirds and brown pelican colonies. Inland, a brackish lagoon may attract
American flamingos, while coastal paths lead to stunning views over the bay.
After the guided hike, enjoy a snorkeling excursion off the beach, where parrotfish, rays, and reef sharks are frequently encountered. Alternatively, opt for a kayaking adventure along Rabida’s vibrant coastline, paddling past rocky outcrops and caves carved by the sea.

AM: Charles Darwin Research Station

Disembark at Puerto Ayora for a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station, a center of conservation, science, and education. Walk through shaded trails past native gardens and visit the giant tortoise
breeding center, where you’ll witness various stages of these iconic reptiles’ lives true ambassadors of resilience and longevity.
The center offers meaningful insight into the history and challenges of protecting this remarkable archipelago. After the visit, you will be transferred across the island to Baltra Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador, closing your journey with a deep appreciation for the Galapagos Islands and their conservation legacy.

AM: Arrival at Baltra Airport

Your adventure begins as you land at Baltra Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by our Oniric Cruises team and guided through entry formalities, including the Galapagos National Park entrance fee and Transit Control Card registration. A short transfer leads you to the harbor where the Galapagos Tribute awaits. After a warm welcome from the captain and crew, you’ll settle into your suite and enjoy a gourmet lunch as we set sail.

PM: Highlands

Your first island encounter begins in the lush, misty highlands of Santa Cruz, a verdant sanctuary where giant tortoises roam freely in the wild. Walk amid this living legacy in the El Chato Reserve, surrounded by endemic vegetation and diverse birdlife, for an
unforgettable introduction to the archipelago

AM: Tintoreras & Sierra Negra Volcano

Awake off the coast of Isabela, the largest and geologically youngest of the islands. Begin with a visit to Tintoreras Islet, a volcanic outcrop teeming with marine iguanas, white-tip reef sharks, and if you’re
lucky the elusive Galapagos penguin.
Later, a scenic inland transfer takes you to Sierra Negra Volcano, home to one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. Hike through five distinct vegetation zones and marvel at the sweeping lunar-like landscape from the crater rim. Along the trail, observe lava lizards, songbirds, and cacti that have adapted to thrive in this stark environment.

PM: Wetlands & Tortoise Breeding Center

This afternoon, explore the coastal wetlands near Puerto Villamil, where mangroves, brackish lagoons, and serene trails reveal flamingos, common stilts, and warblers in abundance. Conclude your visit at the Tortoise Breeding Center, an essential conservation initiative preserving endangered tortoise species in various stages of development a deeply moving example of ongoing ecological
stewardship.

AM: Moreno Point

On the island’s wild northwest coast, Punta Moreno offers a surreal tableau of hardened lava flows interrupted by tranquil brackish lagoons. Navigate this stark yet striking landscape to spot flamingos,
marine turtles, and pintail ducks. Afterward, enjoy snorkeling in waters frequented by Pacific green turtles, rays, and an array of vibrant reef fish.

PM: Espinoza Point

Considered one of the most pristine islands in the archipelago, Fernandina is a geological marvel untouched by invasive species. At Espinoza Point, witness the flightless Galapagos cormorant, a living
testament to evolution, and walk among dense colonies of marine iguanas basking on lava rocks. Enjoy a snorkeling session rich with marine life, with potential sightings of sea lions, penguins, and sea
turtles, all beneath the shadow of the towering La Cumbre Volcano.

AM: Tagus Cove

Cruise along dramatic cliffs into Tagus Cove, a historic anchorage for pirates and whalers. A short hike leads to a panoramic lookout over Darwin Lake, surrounded by graffiti carved into stone by sailors
from centuries past. Back at sea level, opt for a kayaking expedition along the rugged shoreline or dive into a snorkeling adventure where penguins, flightless cormorants, and marine turtles may join you.

PM: Vicente Roca Point

Sail across the Bolívar Channel to reach this breathtaking site at the foot of Ecuador Volcano. Here, the eroded volcanic amphitheater reveals sea caves and deep waters rich with marine life. Snorkeling is superb, offering encounters with sunfish (Mola mola), seahorses, pufferfish, and perhaps sharks gliding silently below.

AM: Pinnacle Rock

The day begins at one of the archipelago’s most iconic vistas. Ascend to the summit of Bartholomew Island for a sweeping panorama over Pinnacle Rock, a jagged lava spire rising from the sea. Along the trail, observe lava cactus and other hardy pioneer plants slowly colonizing the young volcanic soil.

PM: Sullivan Bay

Step into a moonlike landscape of pahoehoe lava flows, frozen in time since the late 19th century. This otherworldly terrain offers a compelling look at recent volcanic activity and provides excellent
photographic opportunities. Then, enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding shallow waters, where penguins, reef sharks, rays, and Pacific green turtles roam freely.

AM: Dragon Hill

Known for its colony of Galapagos land iguanas, Dragon Hill also boasts scenic trails through arid coastal scrub and cactus forests.
Visit saline lagoons where flamingos, black-necked stilts, and herons feed in the shallows. From the hilltop, take in views of the bay and surrounding volcanic ridges.

PM: North Seymour

An uplifted seabed turned wildlife sanctuary, North Seymour is bustling with life. Walk among blue-footed boobies performing their signature mating dances, frigatebirds inflating their scarlet throat
pouches, and sea lions sprawled in the shade. In the surrounding waters, enjoy a snorkeling session with a vibrant mix of reef fish, sharks, and rays.

AM: Bachas Beach

Your final morning takes you to the soft white sands of Bachas Beach, a key nesting site for sea turtles. Walk along the serene shorelines, past remnants of WWII barges, and explore nearby brackish lagoons that occasionally host flamingos, whimbrels, and stilts.
After this peaceful farewell, you’ll be transferred to Baltra Airport for your flight back to the mainland bringing to a close a truly transformational voyage through the living laboratory of evolution.