National Geographic Exploring Galapagos
Spend a week cruising the Galapagos with National Geographic guides aboard the 96-passenger Nat Geo Endeavour II, or 48-guest Nat Geo Gemini or Nat Geo Islander II. These ships boast high caliber expedition leaders and naturalist staff, and come equipped with specified expedition tools, for the perfect balance of comfort, activity and education.
The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II, alongside 48-guest National Geographic Gemini and National Geographic Islander II, is one of the best first-class expedition vessels in the Galapagos Islands, providing renowned expedition leaders and naturalist staff from National Geographic. Enjoy snorkeling, hiking, a glass-bottom boat and more on the 8-day cruise portion of this 10-day Galapagos tour package tailored for travelers seeking an active yet highly intellectual experience of the archipelago.
Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands provide a natural habitat for some of the world’s most interesting and unusual animals. Only in Galápagos will you come face to face with wildlife that has never developed a fear of people.
With an expedition to the Land of Darwin, visit a new island each day, all with the diverse iconic wildlife one thinks about when dreaming of this unique destination. Look forward to opportunities such as observing blue-footed boobies performing a courtship dance, snorkeling with playful sea lions, watching a male frigatebird ballooning his crimson chest pouch to attract a female, kneeling beside marine iguanas and marveling at Galápagos penguins.
A Galapagos cruise aboard the National Geographic Gemini or Endeavour II features nimble Zodiacs and kayaks that cruise to the volcanic shores and pristine beaches of Galápagos, and an undersea program utilizes underwater video, glass-bottom boat and hydrophone that bring seldom seen or heard worlds to life. Every expedition in Galápagos is led by a team of five naturalists, including an Underwater Specialist, a videographer and expedition leader, providing a multitude of resources for a rich and unmatched understanding of all that you’ll see. Plus, her unique exploration-based family program, National Geographic Global Explorers, caters to kids and teens, making her 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.
National Geographic Exploring Galapagos Itinerary
The 96-passenger Nat Geo Endeavour II and the 48-guest National Geo Gemini and Nat Geo Islander II all provide renowned expedition leaders and naturalist staff from National Geographic. Enjoy snorkeling, hiking, a glass-bottom boat and more while cruising for 8 days among travelers seeking an active yet highly intellectual experience of the archipelago.
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 an overnight stay. 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.
In the morning, fly to the Galápagos and embark the ship. After lunch, your journey begins as you explore the islands and their remarkable wildlife.
Although exact routing depends on the Galapagos National Park, your National Geographic ship may visit the following islands:
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 we may also encounter prehistoric-looking land iguanas feeding on cactus.
Isabela
Cross the Equator at Volcán Ecuador, northernmost of Isabela’s six great shield volcanoes. Keep an eye open for whales and dolphins, sea turtles and the elusive ocean sunfish. Over two 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 birder paradise, also home to vividly colored marine iguanas. Watch sea lions on the wide sand beach and snorkel offshore at Gardner Bay.
Floreana
Follow a trail past a rose pink-tinted lagoon frequented by flamingos. Snorkel among sea lions and abundant fish, or cruise along Champion Islet by Zodiac. Visit the famous 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. See the giant tortoises roaming in the wild in the lush, green highlands.
Bartolome
Climb the steps to the summit of this 300-foot volcanic wonderland for stunning views. Explore, swim and snorkel from the beach. You might even see Galápagos penguins, one of 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.
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
Search for red-footed boobies and the endemic mockingbird and lava lizard—found only on this easternmost island. 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.
This morning fly home—or consider 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
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, 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. Special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.
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 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II, formerly the Via Australis, replaced the National Geographic Endeavour in January 2017 after extensive renovations. This purpose-built expedition ship is exceptionally quiet and maneuverable, and allows for an enriching Galápagos experience with great viewing from all public spaces; state-of-the-art tools for exploration; and a fast, seamless Zodiac loading platform. National Geographic Endeavour II features spacious lounges, modern cabins and first-rate dining. National Geographic Endeavour II is a classic maritime vessel with an expedition-style ambiance.
National Geographic Endeavour II Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Endeavour II review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class Galapagos cruise ship. Please read our National Geographic Endeavour II review below then contact our experts to compare the Nat Geo Endeavour II with other small cruise ships, catamarans, expedition ships, mid-size cruisers, motorsailors and yachts offering Galapagos cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Endeavour II if you are an active and inquisitive traveler seeking to learn much more than just the names of Galapagos wildlife. The experts and equipment on board this expedition ship provide the finest Galapagos intellectual and educational experience. If your priority is the best expedition experience possible, with the best guides in the industry, along with the comfort of modern onboard amenities, then the National Geographic Endeavour II is the right Galapagos ship for you. This ship is excellent for Galapagos family cruises, with interconnected cabins, family-friendly activities and numerous educational opportunities for kids.
Common Areas Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II
National Geographic Endeavour II was built in 2005 and renovated in 2016. You’ll find abundant comfortable spaces to take in the scenery and relax after an active and exhilarating day ashore. National Geographic Endeavour II is fully air-conditioned and has a covered deck with chairs and tables, laundry service (additional charge), doctor's office available 24 hours a day free of charge, fitness center, global gallery selling handmade local artisan items, library, lounge with panoramic windows, full-service bar and a sun deck. There are also three iMac stations for sorting and transferring your photos (bring your own USB or external hard drive). The onboard LEXspa features massages, body treatments and facials inspired by the Galapagos. The captain welcomes guests per the open bridge policy. The spacious lounge has a custom-designed presentation space that offers all aboard an opportunity to participate in evening recaps or special guest events.
Internet access is available for purchase by the minute. You may access WiFi on your laptop, tablet or phone to check email, social media or surf the web, but since the Galapagos Islands are so remote you’ll most often find that the Internet connection is not powerful enough to support Skype or video chat. If you choose not to travel with a computer, there are Internet kiosks available.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II
The dining room aboard National Geographic Endeavour II easily accommodates all travelers in a single seating. The unassigned table settings, with many tables that accommodate an odd number of people, encourages mingling with fellow travelers. Dress is always casual and the general ambience is relaxed and informal. During lunch and dinner your expedition leader, naturalists and any guest speakers will join for meals, and during breakfast they often sit together to plan the logistics of the exciting day ahead.
All food served aboard is fresh, local and delicious; sourced from suppliers that share values of sustainability whenever possible; and often inflected with regional flavors. Breakfast is served buffet-style, with eggs and other dishes made to order. Enjoy freshly-baked pastries, and a bounty of fresh, tropical fruits and fresh-squeezed fruit juices. Lunch is most often buffet, though occasionally served family style. Dinners are plated and served in the dining room, except for the evening when an extravagant barbecue is held on Endeavour II’s open deck.
A variety of beverages are available for purchase including beer, cocktails, a daily specialty drink, spirits and wine by the glass or bottle. There are also 24-hour self-service beverage stations in the library and the forward lounge with coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, ice and snacks.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II
National Geographic Endeavour II is equipped with a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom Zodiac, snorkeling gear and wetsuits, underwater video camera, video microscope, walking sticks and Zodiac landing craft. It also features a wellness program with a fitness center including cardio equipment and free weights, as well as yoga mats and exercise bands you can bring to your cabin.
On the first day of your expedition you’ll be fitted with a mask, snorkel, fins, wetsuit and, if you choose, a snorkel buoyancy vest. These are yours to use for the duration of the expedition—so there’s no need to pack and tote your own gear. The 3mm shorty wetsuits allow you to stay in the cool water of Galápagos longer, and protect your skin from the equatorial sun. Guests who own masks with prescription lenses, or prefer to use thicker, full-length wetsuits are welcome to bring their own gear.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Endeavour II
National Geographic Endeavour II accommodates 96 guests in 53 cabins. Each cabin aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II has a private bathroom, large windows that face outside, Wi-Fi access, temperature controls, a chair and writing desk, armchair, closet and under bed storage, luxurious organic cotton duvets and cotton sheets. Beds can be converted from two singles to a queen. Suites are larger with two windows and sofa or arm chairs. Seven sets of cabins feature a connecting door, adding to the flexibility for groups, family and friends. Bathrooms have botanically inspired hair products and shower gel, a hairdryer and robes.
The National Geographic Islander II combines the spirit of education and discovery with elegant and spacious living areas. At only 48 guests she matches her predecessor ship, National Geographic Islander, but this new iteration is packed with amenities not available to earlier Islander guests.
National Geographic Islander II Review
The following cruise ship review includes a detailed description of this incredible Galapagos expedition ship including the deck plan and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Galapagos Islands, including this ship's predecessor. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare the Nat Geo Islander II with other small cruise ships, expedition ships and mid-size cruisers offering Galapagos cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Islander II for an all-suite ship with modern and Ecuadorian decor, and amenities not typically found on a Galapagos expedition ship. This ship feels like a private yacht. She has been outfitted for adventure with areas like a Science Hub and Chart Room, yet she maintains her charm with various indoor/outdoor spaces, wraparound teak decking, crystal chandeliers and a unique top-deck pool. This ship is excellent for Galapagos family cruises, with select interconnected cabins, family-friendly activities and numerous educational opportunities for kids. She also makes our list of Galapagos luxury cruises due to her high level of educational programming.
Design & Sustainability
The Nat Geo Islander II has been purposefully refit to offer the high level of service and education that our partner National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is known for. The aft Marina with its gear room and swim platform offer ample space for guests to get on and off the ship with ease, multiple times each day. Environmental considerations are also apparent with features including reduced outdoor lighting, special paints and a new air conditioning system that recycles water. Finally, her stabilizers ensure smooth sailing through open ocean crossings.
Onboard Facilities
This best-in-class expedition ship offers a wide range of amenities. For example, her forward Viewing Platform invites moments to catch the amazing wildlife of the Galapagos. Her open bridge encourages travelers to observe the navigation process. And two non-guest suites are reserved for invited community members, researchers, educators and storytellers involved with Galapagos. Easy access to outdoor deck space is available around the ship, including space for outdoor events such as a BBQ, chocolate and spirits pairing, stretching and meditation. Finally, her interior design features artwork created by local artisans to share in Ecuador's finest.
Dining, Bars, Lounge & Food Sustainability
Dining options aboard the National Geographic Islander II are exclusively offered on the uppermost decks, with seating for all and amazing sight lines. The indoor/outdoor Patio Cafe creates a calm dining experience in a protected area at the back of the ship, with floor-to-ceiling windows to bring the outside in. The sophisticated Yacht Club Restaurant features fine dining in a central location, with The Cove lounge area a perfect after-dinner hangout or pre-dinner presentation area. The open-air Observation Deck provides a generous amount of sunny seating and casual fare from the bar and grill. An outdoor BBQ are offers al fresco dining with fun options such as pizzas. And a 24-hour coffee and tea station is always available, featuring 100% Ecuadorian and Galapaguenian coffee beans. Additionally, the "Zero Proof" program means delicious cocktails with no alcohol are available at the bar; the bar also offers Galapagos-produced craft beer.
Food on board is fresh, local, organic and sustainable. Chefs regularly work with local producers to harvest and select ingredients, ensuring quality as well as working toward updated techniques such as hydroponics. On board the ship, ingredients are kept out of the waste stream and flavors are preserved by pickling, curing and canning. Meals are pre-ordered and plated as often as possible, and excess ingredients are turned into crew meals, further reducing food waste. The menu on board Nat Geo Islander II features certified fish, vegan and vegetarian options (including items like in-house-made vegan cheeses), and a seasonal or annual refresh. Some dishes are even designed to represent the environment in which National Geographic Islander II operates.
Science Hub, Library & Chart Room
Discovery is at the forefront of every departure aboard Nat Geo Islander II, with a science hub, library and chart room—each space encouraging educational pursuits. These areas play host to the Global Explorers program for kids and teens with various guided activities. The science hub features equipment including microscopes, lab benches, digital photo editing tools and an interactive video display of the ship's underwater cameras.
Pool, Spa, Sauna & Gym
A top-deck plunge pool offers a cool respite on hot equatorial days, complete with outdoor showers adjacent to a cedar-lined sauna, topnotch fitness studio and outdoor theater. The gym features Technogym equipment, yoga space and incredible views. The spa keeps travelers pampered with options such as massage atop a quartz table. And the onboard doctor's office ensures safety.
Activities & Expeditions
Restful onboard moments are balanced by active off-ship explorations. Guests are regularly treated to opportunities to swim, kayak, stand-up paddle, hike, practice photography and seek unique flora and fauna on Zodiac cruises. National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a custom-built glass-bottom Zodiac, various Zodiac Mark V boats, and snorkel gear for travelers of all ages.
Crew & Guides
Guests are treated to a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio for the feeling of a private yacht. And the ship carries a wellness specialist and 5 guides, including an undersea specialist, photo instructor, video chronicler and field educators. All guides and crew members aboard National Geographic Islander II are Ecuadorian, furthering the sense of authenticity and connection to country.
Cabins & Nat Geo Islander II Deck Plan
Common to all 26 suites aboard this Galapagos ship are: panoramic windows, twin/king convertible beds, a seating area with sofa, ample closet space, private marble double-sink bathrooms with a walk-in shower, WiFi, a flat-screen TV and a stocked mini bar. Triple options are available with the third guest sleeping on a sofa bed. And families may opt to connect the Santa Cruz Suite (#303) with Suite #301 to create a family suite.
Launched in 2001 from the same shipyard as National Geographic Orion, the 48-guest National Geographic Gemini is a highly maneuverable, shallow-draft expedition ship purpose built to explore remote areas with ease. Following a multi-million-dollar renovation, the ship embodies the spirit of adventure and extreme comfort that are synonymous with National Geographic, and will celebrate a deep connection to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador and its people.
National Geographic Gemini Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Gemini review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in the Galapagos Islands. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare this expedition ship with other Galapagos cruise ships offering Galapagos cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Gemini for an enriching experience aboard a state-of-the-art vessel. At only 48 guests, she is National Geographic's second-smallest ship cruising in the archipelago. Add her size to her fresh renovation and top expedition guides, and travelers are in for the perfect combo of the finest educational and onboard experience. This ship is excellent for Galapagos family cruises, with select interconnected cabins, family-friendly activities and numerous educational opportunities for kids like National Geographic's Global Explorers program. She also makes our list of Galapagos luxury cruises due to her high level of educational programming.
Onboard Facilities
National Geographic Gemini was built in 2001 and extensively renovated in 2024. You’ll find abundant comfortable spaces to take in the scenery and relax after an active and exhilarating day ashore. Enjoy optional onboard laundry service, a doctor’s office available 24 hours a day free of charge, a global gallery selling handmade local artisan items, a library, lounge with panoramic windows, full-service bar and a sun deck. The captain welcomes guests per the open bridge policy. WiFi is available for purchase by the minute, suitable for basic tasks such as checking emails and browsing the web. In areas with good connectivity, the satellite internet is likely strong enough to support high-data activities like streaming videos or making video calls.
Open-Air Decks, Spa & Gym
Enjoy the outdoors on the Upper Deck, which features an outdoor shower, a whirlpool hot tub with adjacent shaded seating area, and a windowed fitness center with exercise classes and wellness specialist. The onboard LEXspa features massages, body treatments and facials inspired by the Galapagos..
Dining, Bars, Lounge & Food Sustainability
The open and expansive windowed lounge hosts presentations and recaps, and features a well-stocked, comfortable bar. The dining areas aboard the National Geographic Gemini, offered in the outdoor café on the Lounge Deck and the indoor restaurant on the Marina Deck, can comfortably seat all passengers in one sitting. The atmosphere is laid back with casual dress and open seating arrangements. Expedition leaders, naturalists and guest speakers often join guests for lunch and dinner, while breakfast often serves as a planning session for the day's adventures.
National Geographic Gemini provides an authentic sense of place informed by decades-long relationships with local communities and conservation groups. Meals will have Ecuadorian flair and are designed to support the community—comprised by locally sourced farm-to-table and ocean-to-table ingredients.
Activities & Expeditions
Restful onboard moments are balanced by active off-ship explorations. Guests are regularly treated to opportunities to kayak, stand-up paddle, hike, practice photography and seek unique flora and fauna on Zodiac cruises. National Geographic Gemini is equipped with a Zodiac boarding and gearing up area for snorkeling and excursions, plus expedition tools like a video microscope and underwater video camera. She also carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom boat, various Zodiac Mark VI boats, and snorkel gear for travelers of all ages, including shortie wetsuits.
Crew & Guides
Contributing to the fully immersive Ecuadorian experience on board is the passionate and knowledgeable Ecuadorian crew. Guests are treated to a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio for the feeling of a private yacht. And the ship carries a wellness specialist and 5 guides, including an undersea specialist, photo instructor, video chronicler and field educators.
Cabins & National Geographic Gemini Deck Plan
All cabins aboard this Galapagos expedition ship are ocean-facing and offer ample storage, queen or twin beds, a sofa, desk, television, a stocked mini-fridge and air conditioning. Bathrooms are large, equipped with towels and a hair dryer, and feature glass showers. Triple options are available with the third guest sleeping on a sofa bed, and families may opt to connect select rooms.
Suite 601 on the Upper Deck (Category 7) is the largest in the National Geographic Galápagos fleet with a separate living room, forward-facing balcony, private jacuzzi, side balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows. Cabins on the Bridge Deck (Category 4 & 5S) all have private balconies with seating.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Galapagos Ship Options & 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.
The National Geographic Endeavour II is superbly designed for expedition cruising in the Galapagos Islands. National Geographic experts, kayaks, paddleboards, glass-bottom zodiacs, modern cabins, first-rate dining and underwater cameras make for the ultimate Galapagos experience.
Get aboard the all-suite Nat Geo Islander II. On this purpose-fit Galapagos expedition ship, enjoy indoor-outdoor dining, spacious accommodations and special expedition amenities.
Get aboard the fully equipped Nat Geo Gemini Galápagos expedition ship and enjoy her fresh renovation, low guest count and top expedition guides.
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Upscale cloud forest escape with wildlife walks, canopy rides & naturalist guides
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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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.
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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.
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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National Geographic Galapagos Escape
Nat Geo program combining shorter trips with top-tier guiding
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National Geographic Galapagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage
Explore with premier Nat Geo guides from an intimate catamaran
Origin, Theory & Evolve Galapagos Cruises
Board award-winning luxury yachts good for divers, families and more
Our experts will save you hours.
A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.
