National Geographic Galapagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage
Experience the Galapagos from a stylish and stable catamaran for 16 guests: Nat Geo Delfina. Take a panga to pristine beaches, kayak or stand-up paddleboard along volcanic shores, and explore wildlife on land or under the sea alongside two veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor.
Experience the Galapagos aboard a stylish and stable double-hulled yacht for 16 guests, well-equipped for up-close exploration. Enjoy a rare 8:1 guest-to-guide ratio while touring pristine beaches and volcanic shores on foot and by panga, snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard. See and do more with two veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor. National Geographic Delfina is also available as one of AdventureSmith’s Galapagos Islands yacht charters, for a private experience with family and friends, or your organization.
Your travel journal will be full of memories from your Nat Geo Galapagos catamaran cruise. Adventure by kayak, paddleboard and Zodiac on waters rich in marine life. Discover wildlife unfazed by your presence: lounge on beaches with sea lions, walk among huge colonies of marine iguanas, and delight at the antics of nesting seabirds from ship and shore. Snorkel with sea lions, turtles and abundant fish in the protected waters of the Galápagos Marine Reserve.
Galapagos sailings aboard the National Geographic Delfina feature nimble kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and Zodiac-brand pangas that cruise to the volcanic shores and pristine beaches of Galapagos, plus an undersea focus to bring seldom seen or heard worlds to life. Every expedition in the Galápagos is led by a team of naturalists, a videographer and expedition leader, providing a multitude of resources for a rich and unmatched understanding of all the sights and sounds. Plus, each ship’s unique exploration-based family program, National Geographic Global Explorers, caters to kids and teens, making each an excellent option for Galapagos family cruises.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Galapagos cruises and Galapagos trips.
Galapagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage Itinerary
The 10-Day National Geographic Galapagos by Catamaran cruise begins and ends with a hotel overnight on mainland Ecuador, and embarks/disembarks from either Baltra or San Cristobal. The flexible itinerary features a diverse selection of islands optimized for wildlife viewing, landscapes and experiences.
Be met on arrival in Ecuador, either in Quito, Ecuador’s capital city in the Andes, or in the coastal city of Guayaquil, for an included transfer to your convenient hotel for overnight. Both cities are well-served by international carriers, and Galapagos flights start and end in Quito with a stop in Guayaquil. Guests in Guayaquil stay at the locally owned Hotel Oro Verde. Guests opting for Quito stay at the (included) Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel, or may upgrade to Casa Gangotena or Swissotel at added cost.
Fly to the Galápagos and embark the ship awaiting you at anchor. Begin to explore the islands and their remarkable wildlife.
Below are a selection of islands you may visit during your expedition. Itineraries are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations.
North Seymour: Follow coastal trails past playful Galápagos sea lions on this wildlife-rich central island. Continue inland through a silvery forest of endemic palo santo trees, where frigatebirds nest, blue-footed boobies dance, and where you may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus.
Bartolomé: Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim and snorkel from the beach. Catch a glimpse of Galápagos penguins, one of the world’s rarest.
Santiago: Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak and paddleboard along Santiago’s spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked.
Isabela: Cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye out for whales and dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over 2 days, land in the footsteps of Darwin and Melville, and look for wildlife along the wildly eroded volcanic shore.
Fernandina: One of the most active oceanic volcanoes in the world, Fernandina is the youngest and most pristine island in Galápagos—and home to the strange flightless cormorant, Galápagos penguins and the largest marine iguanas. Hikes ashore lead across impressive recent lava flows.
Española: See swallow-tailed gulls, Española mockingbirds, Nazca boobies and, seasonally, the world’s only population of waved albatross at this bird paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the white-sand beach and snorkel offshore at Gardner Bay.
Floreana: Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon sometimes frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the historic mail barrel at Post Office Bay.
Santa Cruz: Visit Puerto Ayora, the largest town and headquarters of both the Galápagos National Park and Charles Darwin Research Station. See the monument to Lonesome George, and tour the giant tortoise breeding corrals. Witness the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands.
Santiago: Explore tide pools and look for fur seals sheltered in quiet grottos of black basalt. Swim, snorkel, kayak and paddleboard along Santiago’s spectacular coast, and explore an enchanting coastal forest where Charles Darwin once walked.
Genovesa: Sail across the Equator to the remote northern realm of the Galápagos into this flooded caldera, home to over one million seabirds. Visit Prince Philip’s Steps at the top of the island. Highlights along the trail are many, from Nazca, red- and blue-footed boobies and frigates, to gulls, owls, fur seals, hammerhead sharks, turtles and manta rays.
San Cristobal: Walk along the powdery white sand at a gorgeous beach fronted by iconic Kicker Rock. Explore Baquerizo Moreno, where sea lions thrive in the middle of town.
Disembark this morning for a return flight to the mainland, where you transfer to Hotel Oro Verde in Guayaquil, or the (included) Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel, with Quito upgrades available for Casa Gangotena or Swissotel at added cost. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure. You may be able to take advantage of overnight flights home.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport and board flights home, unless you have arranged for additional nights or a trip extension with AdventureSmith Explorations to the Amazon or Machu Picchu, Peru.
Included
Accommodations; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase); transfers to and from group flights; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff, expert guides, and a ship’s doctor; use of kayaks, snorkeling gear, wetsuits and stand-up paddleboards; special access fees; port charges; service taxes; Galapagos National Park entrance fee and Galapagos transit card.
Exclusions
Air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities; passport, visa and immigration fees; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; insurance of any kind; round-trip economy flights between Guayaquil and the Galapagos (2025-2026 sample airfares: $520 per person or $350 per child, subject to change; your Adventure Specialist can confirm upon booking); optional international group flights (2025-2026 sample airfares $600 economy or $1,500 business, subject to change; your Adventure Specialist can confirm upon booking).
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
This trip begins and ends in Guayaquil, Ecuador (GYE) or Quito, Ecuador (UIO). Plan flights to arrive at any time on Day 1 and depart anytime on Day 10 (or anytime after 7:00pm on Day 9). If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page. Note: Your passport must be valid 6 months after your Ecuador trip.
Internal Flights
Flights from mainland Ecuador (Guayaquil) to the Galapagos are not included in the cruise price, but are arranged for you by AdventureSmith Explorations through your ship. Your Adventure Specialist will book these flights for you on the scheduled Galapagos flight for your particular departure. Airfares vary by departure; your Adventure Specialist will detail these for you in their proposal and on your invoice. See Exclusions for sample airfare rates. On flights from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands, baggage weight limits are currently 50 pounds for checked items, and 17 pounds for carry-on plus a small personal item. Subject to change.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include opportunities to swim, snorkel, kayak, Zodiac cruise and stand-up paddleboard. Wetsuits are available, either free of charge or to rent for a fee (see Inclusions and Exclusions), and are recommended from June to December. There is also a glass-bottom Zodiac for exploring the undersea while staying dry.
Daily excursions from the boat to the islands will be made in pangas (dinghies). Trip members will hike from the landing point to specific areas for wildlife observation. Hiking time for most landings will be a couple of hours round-trip with lots of time to stop to study, photograph and enjoy the flora and fauna. Some landings are dry but many are “wet,” requiring cautious footing on slippery rocks. The boat staff will be on hand to assist.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee (100% of the per-person listed rate). If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
We strongly recommend that you travel to Galapagos Province with travel insurance that contains medical coverage. Be certain to bring your insurance plan ID documents with you when you travel.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, National Park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. Due to the active nature of volcanoes in the Western Galapagos, alternate excursions may be offered. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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Hotel Oro Verde, located in downtown Guayaquil, Ecuador, offers guests a commitment to traditional European-style service and a superior range of elegant amenities. Hotel Oro Verde offers a strategic location in the commercial and financial district which allows convenient access for business and leisure travelers alike and is within easy walking distance of popular tourist attractions, entertainment and shopping, cultural and historical sites and just a quick eight-minute drive from the Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport and the World Trade Center.
Amenities at Hotel Oro Verde
Wireless high-speed internet is available throughout the entire hotel, as well as a 24-hour business center with computers, printing and copying. Available to all guests are a state-of-the-art fitness room, the spa and Turkish bath and the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Additionally, Hotel Oro Verde features an on-site beauty parlor, concierge, a chocolate shop, gift store with Ecuadorian crafts, a full-service travel agency, airport shuttle and private parking with 24-hour security. Dry cleaning and laundry services are also available.
Dining at Hotel Oro Verde
An extensive and complimentary breakfast buffet consists of rolls, pastries, meats and cheeses, fresh fruits, eggs cooked to order and coffee, tea and juices. For lunch and dinner, a wide variety of restaurants include Le Gourmet serving upscale local and international cuisine; La Fondue, a relaxed Swiss-style restaurant offering a fun atmosphere for dinner; and El Patio offering breakfast, lunch and dinner with Ecuadorian and international dishes. The Gourmet Deli is a place for a quick meal to grab on the go. Drinks are offered at the nautical-themed Bar El Capitan. 24-hour room service is also available.
Nearby Attractions to Hotel Oro Verde
Don’t miss nearby Simon Bolivar Park (also known as Iguana Park) where you can interact with friendly iguanas. Or visit Malecon 2000, a two-mile-long, pedestrian-only waterfront promenade along the River Guayas that features lush green parks, shopping, outdoor cafes, restaurants and entertainment. Other nearby attractions within easy walking distance include Mall Del Sol Shopping center, Santa Ana Hill, the Cathedral, Morisc Tower, the Rotonda monument and Las Penas historical neighborhood. The Churute mangroves, the Cerro Blanco rainforest and various Pacific Ocean beaches are within a short driving distance.
Accommodations at Hotel Oro Verde
Hotel Oro Verde features 230 guest rooms, 28 business-tower suites, 5 club-floor suites, including 1 Oro Verde suite and 1 Presidential Suite, all generously proportioned and furnished in an elegant residential style. Guest rooms have ample natural light, and room amenities include mini bar, coffee maker, rainfall showerheads, in-room safe, cable TV, reading light over bed, hair dryer, multi-line telephones and a functional desk.
Hotel Oro Verde’s wide array of luxury rooms start with the most economical, the Deluxe Room available with king, queen or twin beds. The Leading Suite is great for families, small groups or people who want a bit more space, offering separate living and bedrooms. Even more luxurious options include the Premium Floor Room, Oro Verde Suite and Presidential Suite, which all offer personalized service, exclusive amenities and upgraded features.
The newest and most intimate addition to the National Geographic fleet, the Nat Geo Delfina is a sleek, upscale catamaran designed for cruising the archipelago in style and stable comfort. The elegant, well-appointed ship, with a double hull, accommodates only 16 guests in eight spacious, air-conditioned double staterooms with polished wood décor.
AdventureSmith's History with Nat Geo Delfina
We have a long history with this ship and welcome her return to service under the National Geographic banner. Originally named the Motor Catamaran Athala II she was one of our favorite Galapagos catamarans from her launch in 2007 until 2017 when she was sold and rechristened as the Celebrity Xploration.
One of the initial wave of catamaran's designed and built to operate in the Galapagos Islands she was among the largest and nicest. She offered the spacious and comfortable, fully air-conditioned accommodation of a larger boat while still preserving the relaxed exclusivity of a smaller vessel.
We are confident the Delfina will maintain everything that made her a luxurious pioneer while adding elements of education and expedition that National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions are known for.
National Geographic Delfina Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Delfina review includes a detailed description of the small ship including a deck plan and photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard the National Geographic Delfina firsthand and can be your ultimate resource when comparing other Galapagos cruise ships, yachts and catamarans offering Galapagos cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Delfina for an intimate voyage steeped in learning and action-packed excursions led by expert naturalists with a passion for protecting this one-of-a-kind archipelago. Her educational programming and multi-million-dollar renovation (2024) will dazzle any traveler, and she's perfectly sized for a group of family and friends looking for a private Galapagos yacht charter.
Common Areas
National Geographic Delfina was built in 2007 and extensively renovated in 2024. On board, the open-air Observation Deck offers guests sweeping 360-degree views of the islands, with a cozy shaded area for relaxation, a Whirlpool hot tub, and lounge chairs to kick-up one's feet and take in the surroundings or stargaze. On the wraparound Upper Deck, guests can dine al fresco at the Outdoor Café and enjoy spectacular island views from the bow as they watch for dolphins, whales and other dazzling endemic marine life.
The dining room, bar and cozy lounge with library are on the Main Deck, which is also the boarding area and marina. Guests can savor Ecuadorian-inspired cuisine with local, sustainable ingredients in both indoor and outdoor dining areas, enjoying a sociable and informal atmosphere within a single, unassigned seating.
Activities & Expedition Tools
Guests can enjoy multiple ways to explore on land and at sea, including hikes, photo walks, kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The intimate National Geographic Delfina is equipped with state-of-the-art tools for exploration, including Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and complete snorkeling gear for kids and adults.
Crew & Guides
Explore the Galapagos in good company with Ecuadorian officers and crew, plus two guides (one if 12 or fewer guests): a veteran National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic certified photo instructor (both licensed naturalists). Staff are certified as Field Educators to offer the National Geographic Global Explorers program for kids and teens as well. Many of the veteran guides aboard the National Geographic Galapagos fleet are Galapagueños, who in addition to sharing their extensive knowledge of island species and habitats, also offer an authentic connection to the region’s culture.
Cabins & National Geographic Delfina Deck Plan
Located on two decks, all 8 cabins are bright with outside view windows, convertible queen/twin beds, ample closets, and large bathroom with plush bathrobes and stand-up showers. In addition, staterooms have a stocked mini-bar, in-room WiFi and a flat-screen TV.
Category 5 staterooms have a private balcony. Cabins have either a private balcony (Category 5) or direct access to an expansive wood deck (Category 4). Families may opt to connect select Category 4 cabins. The Nat Geo Delfina does not offer triple occupancy cabins.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Galapagos Ship & Mainland Hotel on Your Itinerary
Hotel Oro Verde, located in downtown Guayaquil, Ecuador, offers guests a luxurious experience with a wide array of amenities and a superb location, just walking distance to many city attractions and a quick 8-minute drive to the airport.
Experience the Galápagos aboard the most intimate and upscale catamaran in the National Geographic fleet. With two veteran naturalists, the Nat Geo Delfina offers an exclusive adventure like no other.
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Planning Your Cruise to the Galapagos Islands
Book your Galapagos small ship cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations for our broad knowledge of this famed archipelago. Our Adventure Specialists are Galapagos travel experts, savvy on Galapagos travel news and planning tips, and our travelers are extensions of this team, providing further insight to enhance our guests’ experience.
This series of travel guides and journals will help you learn more about the Galapagos Islands and get inspired. We travel to the Galapagos several times each year and update our guides frequently, so consult these posts regularly for the most up-to-date information.
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Best Time to Visit Galapagos
When is the best time to visit Galapagos? Consult this month by month guide for help planning your Galapagos travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, water temperature and the benefits of each month.
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Galapagos Travel Tips
Collectively, our crew of experts has been to the Galapagos more than 20 times to travel with our partner small ships and island lodges. Take our insider advice to make the most of your journey.
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Galapagos Islands Animals: Where, When & How to Spot Them
Many Galapagos animals can’t be seen anywhere else on earth but not every animal can be seen on every island. Learn more about where, when and how you can find the top Galapagos Islands animals plus other fun facts and videos.
Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Galapagos Cruise
In conjunction with this cruise, the following pre-cruise options are available for a seamless land-and-sea group travel experience with National Geographic guides and fellow passengers. Contact AdventureSmith Explorations for pricing.
Quito Extension is a 3-day exploration of Quito, which allows you to explore Ecuador’s beautifully preserved colonial capital.
Ecuador’s Amazon: Yasuní Wildlife Photo Extension is a 6-day photo-exclusive pre-extension that immerses you in Yasuní National Park’s incredible biodiversity. Stay at the community-operated Napo Wildlife Center for extraordinary wildlife photography, all just a short flight from historic Quito.
Tropical Andes & Colonial Quito Pre-Voyage Extension (2025-2026) is a 6-day adventure, discovering one of the world’s top five biodiversity hotspots at Mashpi Lodge, just a three-hour drive from Quito. This strikingly contemporary retreat, set in a 2,600-acre private reserve, offers unmatched access to a rainforest teeming with unique life, explored with resident biologists and innovative experiences like an open-air tram and aerial bicycle.
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