YACHT LA PINTA

Yacht La Pinta offers a relaxed yet lavish expedition atmosphere, with plush outside cabins; the highest standards of service; international cuisine plus celebrated Ecuadorian dishes, and all the amenities that make the Galapagos Expedition a trip of a lifetime.

Accommodations

La Pinta's ample staterooms provide Galapagos explorers with unparalleled comfort, catering to guests with personalized attention and innovative services.

24 cabins are located mid-ship, in the Upper Deck, with double beds (32¡¨ x 79¡¨ inches), which can be converted to one Queen bed (64¡¨ x 79¡¨ inches). Six cabins are connected, for the convenience of families traveling together, and there are also 4 triple cabins of approximately 22 square meters (236 square feet).

All cabins are outside, fresh, well-lit through panoramic windows viewing unto the Pacific Ocean, and also with reading lights and other light fixtures at night.

Cabins have a well-appointed desk with adequate drawer space, and several electric outlets to allow guests to charge their photo and video equipment, as well as other appliances and personal devices such as iPods, portable DVD players and laptops. In the cabins, guests will be able to hear all announcements related to the expedition and other activities. There is also an additional audio music channel.

Bathrooms are very functional, with shower and all necessary accessories; all amenities are biodegradable and recyclable. Hair dryer and plenty of plush towels are provided.

The crew

Multilingual Naturalist Guides, Licenced by the Galapagos National Park, lead explorers through the wonders of the Galapagos National Park. Their schooling, years of experience and passion for nature and conservation help guests understand the pace and tone of wilderness.

Naturalists are the leaders of expeditions; their expertise matches their contagious enthusiasm, whether discussing geology or bird watching, snorkeling or stargazing, evolution or sports.

Additional information
La Pinta itinerary will include the Galapagos' main highlights on its Friday to Friday expeditions. Final itinerary is subject to approval of the Galapagos National Park.

Includes
Accommodation
All meals
Island sightseeing
Naturalists and lecture services
Snorkeling gear and transfers

Doesn't include
Air transportation to/from Galapagos
Galapagos National Park admission fee (US $100 subject to change without notice)
Bar
Gifts and items of personal nature

Important facts
Please read the Itinerary as a guide only. Our route and program varies according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes , safety reasons and the wildlife we encounter

• Dry landing: guests step from the dinghy onto rocks or a dock.
• Wet landing: as the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore.

Expedition information
While you don’t need to be an athlete to explore the Galapagos, you should be in good physical shape. Getting in and out of rafts for shore landings takes some effort. Also, keep in mind the islands’ irregular volcanic terrain, as this may include some challenging outings and walks.

Galapagos is not a trip where nightlife shines out. Instead, wildlife shines out. Therefore, we suggest you leave expensive jewelry at home and anything that may create an emotional hardship if lost, or anything that reminds you of home too much.

Travel protection/insurance is highly recommended.

Travel facts
Luggage
No more than 20 Kilos (44 pounds) of luggage (one suitcase) may be checked on flights to or from the Galapagos Islands.
Additional luggage may be stored at your hotel. These restrictions do not include small carry-on flight bags or camera cases.

Cruise attire
For travel in the Galapagos, clothing ranges from informal to very informal. Essentials include sneakers, shorts, long- and short-sleeve lightweight shirts, bathing suit, a wide-brimmed hat, long pants, and a wind breaker or light jacket for evenings. Be sure to bring sunscreen and sunglasses. And lots of film.

Shoes
Most walking ashore is over rocky lava terrain. Therefore tennis shoes, sneakers or walking shoes with rubber soles and good traction must be worn. For beach outings, exclusively, aquasocks, tevas, sandals, are comfortable enough.

Climate
The Galapagos Islands are located on the equator. The tropical heat, however, is tempered by Pacific breezes.

There are two seasons in the islands: the hot season from December to June when humidity is high and average temperatures are in the 80s F (26°-30° C). There may be occasional showers, but the days are generally hot and sunny.

From June to November, you can expect cool winds, occasionally bringing with them a light mist called "garúa." Temperatures average in the 70s F (20°-24° C) during the day and lower at night.

Climate wise, Galapagos lies at a storm-free belt, thus making year-round weather pleasurable. There is no “better” weather to visit Galapagos. The definition of “better” comes attached to our explorers’ expectations.

Passports
Guests must travel to the Galapagos with their passports.
Passport numbers must be furnished one month prior to arrival.

Galapagos National Park admission fee
US$100 per person. It must be paid only in cash upon arrival at the airport in Galapagos (rate is subject to change without notice).

Electric current
110/AC. Electric shavers and hair dryers can be accommodated.

Local time
GMT minus 6 hours in the Galapagos Islands. GMT minus 5 hours on mainland Ecuador.

Purchases on board
US dollars or travelers cheques may be used on board. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express) are also accepted aboard La Pinta. All accounts are settled at the end of the voyage.

Safety
All safety and fire prevention measures have been implemented on yacht La Pinta. There is a resident physician aboard. Life jackets are mandatory for all "panga" rides (outboard motorized inflatable craft).

Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Wine, beer and soft drinks are extra. Bottled water is supplied in each cabin free of charge.

Booking, payment and cancellations policies
A deposit of US$250 per person is required at time of booking and is non- refundable on cancellation. Full payment is due 60 days prior to departure. Special policies apply for groups.

Technical specification

Reconstructed and refitted in Callao, Peru in 2007
Length: 63 meters (207 feet)
Beam: 12 meters (39.37 feet)
Gross Tonnage: 1541
Speed: 12 knots
Capacity: 48 guests
Cabins: 24 outside cabins, in the same deck with twin or queen-size beds.
Double Cabin size: 16 square meters (175 square feet).
Triple Cabin size: 22 square meters (236 square feet) with sofa bed.
Decks: Three public decks include an ample bar-salon, dining room, natural history library, sky bar and sundeck.
Wellness: Jacuzzi, Gym
Guides: 4 certified multilingual Galapagos Naturalists
Crew: 25 plus M.D. officer and Expedition Manager

Other services:
Central air conditioning with individual controls in each cabin.
In-room safe deposit box
Telephone with direct international dialing
Closet and luggage storage space
Multi-channel sound system for closed circuit music and connection for personal iPods, MP3, MP4
Natural History Library ¡Vbooks and electronic
Daily lectures and briefings
Conference room with latest A/V equipment
Boutique
Satellite Internet connection (three stations) and wireless in designated areas.
Closed circuit television

Expedition features
Center for marine equipment
Stargazing programs and equipment
Top of the line communication devices for remote transmission between naturalists on land and the ship
Communication between naturalists and guests via wireless receiver and earphone
Equipment for submarine interpretation
Snorkeling equipment: masks, snorkels, flotation vests.
Short wet suits (used between June and December)
Whale and dolphin watching outings
Glass bottom boat

Wellness
Gym with last generation cardio-vascular equipment
Jacuzzi, whirlpool & Hydro massage
A Medical Doctor is permanently on board
Infirmary with advanced technology

* Special single rates apply only for specific dates, please ask us...1-800-327-0080
** Only 3 cabin s are available for single use
Twin / Double Cabins for single use have a surcharge of 50% of the price.

During Peak Season: Mar.30-Apr.06 /Apr.06-13 / Dec 21-28 / Dec 28-Jan 04
- There will be a GROSS surcharge of US$ 200.00 per adult and US$ 130.00 per child
- No discounts apply
- Twin / Double Cabins for single use have a surcharge of 100% of the price.

Children Policy:
- Children under 12 sharing cabin with parents, 25% off. (Applies only to one child per adult paying full fare)
- Minimum age 6 years old

M/V SANTA CRUZ GALÁPAGOS RATES INCLUDE:
Accommodations, all meals, island sightseeing, naturalist guides and lecture services in English, snorkeling gear, taxes and transfers in the islands.
Transfer from main hotels in Quito (Casona de San Miguel, Hilton Colon, Swissôtel, Marriott, Dann Carlton) and in Guayaquil (Hilton Colon, Oro Verde, Hampton Inn, Sheraton) to airport for flights to / from Galápagos are included in these rates. To coordinate these transfers we must have guest's hotel contact.

NOT INCLUDED:
- Wet Suits available for rent, NET rate $ 15 + VAT per guest for 5-day expeditions
- Wet Suits available for rent, NET rate $ 30 + VAT per guest for 7-day expeditions
- Air transportation from Quito or Guayaquil Galápagos. (US$400-480 please call us)
- Galápagos National Park entrance fee (US$ 100 subject to change without previous notice).
- Migration Control Card (US $ 10 subject to change without previous notice).
- Alcoholic and non alcoholic beverage, gratuities, gifts and additional items.

IMPORTANT NOTES:
- Guarantees local air spaces for this cruises.
- Galápagos Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, logistical or operational reasons.
- All rates are subject to change.

See POLICIES for booking, payment and cancellation for FITs and GROUPS)

Itinerary is a guide only. Our route and programme varies according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety reasons and the wildlife we encounter.

Morning arrival to Baltra Island by TAME flight and immediate transfer to the dock to board Yacht La Pinta. Welcome introductory briefing and lunch.

North Seymour Island

Afternoon disembarkation (dry landing) for a walk along the coast and the interior of the island, observing bird colonies of blue footed boobies, frigate birds, swallow tailed gulls and also sea lions and marine iguanas. Opportunity for snorkelling or coastal exploration. Evening briefing, welcome cocktail and dinner.

Punta Vicente Roca (Albermarle Point, Isabela Island)
After breakfast, disembark (wet landing) at the northernmost point on Isabela Island, Albemarle Point, named in English after the Duke of Albemarle in the 17th century. This is an historic site, where an old radar station dating back to WWII, and installed there by American troops, can still be seen. Fauna here includes the largest marine iguanas of the Galápagos, a healthy population of Flightless Cormorants. This is the only place in the world where one can encounter penguins in the Northern Hemisphere. Amid the mangroves, guests can spot great blue herons and brown pelicans nesting. Lunch on board

Afternoon visit to the youngest island of the archipelago, Fernandina. Disembark (dry landing) for a one-mile walk over dark lava. Punta Espinoza has an amazing combination of barrenness and a lot of wildlife. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina boasts a very unique environment with the highest density of marine iguanas, sharing their space with sea lions, sally-light foot crabs, hawks, penguins and the flightless cormorant. Evening briefing and dinner.

SUNDAY

After breakfast (wet landing) disembark at Urbina Bay, located at the foot of volcanoes Alcedo and Darwin, west of Isabela Island, the result of an uplifting of the ocean in 1954. Here you can find corals, shells, and many other calcareous organisms exposed above water. This area is also home to large and very colourful Galápagos land iguanas, giant tortoises (occasionally); a good spot to observe Darwin’s finches. Along the shoreline, after the hike, guests may encounter flightless cormorants and see penguins while snorkelling in this beautiful cove. Lunch on board.

On the northwest of Isabela, secluded Tagus Cove provided a favourite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries. Old graffiti is still found on its walls. The vegetation in the area includes the fragrant palo santo trees. These white-barked trees are leafless and look dead most of the year. They leaf and spring back to life in the wet season.

An uphill hike takes guests to the back of Darwin Crater, filled with salt water. The view at the end of the trail is worth the climb. Darwin is one of Isabela’s six volcanoes, a remarkable contrast to the lower islands to the east of the archipelago. Possibilities to swim, snorkel or ride kayaks. There is no beach in the area, so these activities are done from the pangas. Briefing and dinner.

MONDAY

Disembark at Rábida Island (wet landing) on a red-coloured beach, due to the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic material. A gratifying stroll along the beach of this small island (1.9 sq. mi.) allows the observation of a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s finches. Very close to the beach, hidden behind a strip of green saltbush, is a salt pond where at times greater flamingos migrate. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. During navigation to our next island, dolphins are often spotted. Lunch on board.

The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill). Dry landing and a walk that includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, including stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings, and more. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago. This area is a natural nesting site for land iguanas, constantly monitored and assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation can be a rewarding location for bird watching, where Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galápagos flycatcher, and yellow warblers are regular sightings. Tonight our expedition plan will reveal the interesting sites of the day ahead.

Morning disembarkation (dry landing) to visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the giant tortoise pens, including tortoise celebrities like “Lonesome George” within an impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest home to many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Lunch at the poolside of the Finch Bay Eco Hotel.

After lunch, visit the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, with their impressive Scalesia forest and the geological formation of the twin pit craters known Los Gemelos. From December to mid-April a visit to see the giant tortoises in the wild may be included, if weather conditions are good. Next day’s expedition plan and dinner.

Morning disembarkation at Puerto Velasco Ibarra (dry landing) and a bus ride to the highlands of Floreana Island. At Asilo de la Paz the hike is primarily of historical interest for guests. It goes past a cave allegedly once used by the first inhabitant of Galápagos – the Irishman Patrick Watkins - and also visits the freshwater spring which served as a source of water for early settlers. Near Asilo de la Paz the National Park Service has built a corral with giant tortoises; however, these are specimens from other islands, as the Floreana Island subspecies of giant tortoise is extinct. Here birdwatchers can spot the medium tree finch (endemic to the highlands of Floreana). Then, a wet landing at the historic barrel that served as a post office in the archipelago, to learn about the human side of the islands, its early inhabitants and the adventures of pirates and whalers. Back on board for lunch.

Disembark at Punta Cormorant (wet landing) at an olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk that includes a brackish water lagoon where bird species like greater flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, herons, sandpipers, and others may be observed. This outing also includes a white-sand beach where sea turtles come out at night to nest (from December to May). Possibility of snorkelling from the beach; a ride in our glass-bottom boat; or for advanced snorkelers, a panga ride to “The Devil’s crown”, if conditions permit. Briefing and dinner.

After breakfast, a wet landing on a sandy white beach with many sea lion harems. Bulls vie for the right of “Beach Master”, while smaller males masking as females make stealthy mating moves. Galápagos hawks are often easily observed, perched atop salt bushes. The giant prickly pear cactus found here live up to their name with tree-sized trunks! The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the afternoon walk. Snorkelling and swimming from the beach rounds off the rewarding experience. Lunch on board.

Disembark (dry landing) in the channel between North and South Plaza Islands, where the island tilts toward the water, the approach makes for a lavishly colourful sight! The turquoise waters of the channel contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline. The rocks have grown thick with green seaweed in places, speckled with bright orange ‘Sally Lightfoot’ crabs. Further up the shore a carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-gray land iguanas sit beneath these, waiting patiently for pears to drop. Along the coastline one finds sea lion colonies, while frigates, swallow-tailed gulls and shearwaters glide playing with the thermals that form along the cliffs of this small but amazing island. Briefing and dinner.

After breakfast, departure to the port and airport for flight back to the mainland

The itineraries and programme are subject to change without prior notice, due mainly to adjustments in the policies and regulations of the Galápagos National Park, weather conditions, seasonal changes and safety reasons.

Wet landing: as the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore

Itinerary is a guide only. Our route and programme varies according to National Park policies and regulations, weather conditions, seasonal changes, safety reasons and the wildlife we encounter.

Arrival by plane to San Cristóbal Island and transfer to La Pinta Yacht for cabin assignment, introductory briefing and lunch. After lunch disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (dry landing) for a 45-minute bus ride to the highlands of San Cristóbal . Here, the National Park service has created a site to preserve and re-establish the population of giant tortoises of San Cristóbal Island, affected due to hunting by early colonizers. Hike through a transition forest, where terrestrial birds such as finches, mockingbirds, doves can be seen. Take the bus back to the town. Lunch on board.

A dinghy ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers takes guests to Cerro Brujo's white coraline beach (wet landing). The beach is a large expanse, great for walking, with rewarding birdwatching with good views of seabirds like blue-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, herons, frigate birds, and more shore birds. Also, look out for Galápagos sea lions. Highlights ashore include the Chatham (San Cristóbal) mockingbird, Chatham lava lizard; both species are endemic to this island, and seen nowhere else in the Galápagos. These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked upon, back in September 1835, as San Cristóbal was the first island where he set foot in the Galápagos. Evening Cocktail, briefing and dinner.

Early disembarkation (wet landing) for what is probably the longest hike on the itinerary (4 miles). The trail goes up the slopes of San Cristóbal’s well eroded shield volcano. The trail takes guests through the arid zone, a great place to see Darwin’s finches and other land birds including the endemic Chatham mockingbirds. Along the way, one can spot some of the last individuals of the San Cristóbal giant tortoise population, living in the wild -- tortoises here were almost hunted to extinction during the late 19^th century by local colonizers. After the invigorating hike, enjoy a swim to cool off before returning back on board for lunch.

Morning disembarkation (wet landing) on the northeastern side of the island. Pitt Point is an eroded tuff cone; the trail that ascends from the beach provides spectacular views of the shoreline. This is the only site in the Galápagos where the three species of boobies can be found together, as well as the two frigate species, plus a colony of bachelor sea lions along the beach. After the walk, if conditions are favourable, there is a chance to swim from the beach. Lunch on board.

Morning outing at Punta Suarez (dry landing) for an exciting walk on lava/boulder terrain to visit its unique sea bird colonies, including the waved albatrosses (April - December), Nazca (masked) boobies, blue-footed boobies, swallow-tail gulls, and the famous blowhole. Among its land birds, the Hood island mockingbird, and three species of Darwin’s finches are common highlights. Also, look for red-green-black marine iguanas. Back on board for lunch.

In the afternoon, disembark (wet landing) at a white coral beach for a short walk to observe the sea lions, mockingbirds, finches or enjoy the beach. There is great snorkelling in this area ( snorkelling equipment is available for guests at no extra cost), or ride the glass-bottom boat. Briefing and dinner.

Morning disembarkation (dry landing) to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the ‘rearing in captivity’ programme for the giant tortoises. Here guests witness the efforts and results of all the field work done in the name of science. An impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also seen. Then, a stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora will allow guests to see how Galapagueños live in this magical paradise. Browse in the many handcraft shops. Lunch at the Finch Bay Eco Hotel in Puerto Ayora.

After lunch, travel by bus to the green hilly highlands of Santa Cruz to El Chato Reserve, one of the best places in the islands to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools that are common in the reserve. You may also spot some highland birds, like cattle egrets, mockingbirds, finches or flycatchers. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, a great place to spot the barn owl. There is also a small lagoon covered in red algae where gallinules and Galápagos pintails can be found. Return to Puerto Ayora. Briefing and dinner.

After breakfast disembark (wet landing) at a beautiful olivine beach (a volcanic crystal that forms in fast-cooling lava). The area has historical relevance since a small community lived in this area in the late 1900s, collecting lichen (Rosella Tictoria), used in the textile industry. The trail leads guests to an old water hole used by the former settlers. There are also boobies, land birds and beautiful views of the northwest side of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy. Several activities are possible after the walk, such as snorkelling or a panga ride along the shoreline. Back on board for lunch.

Less than a quarter-of-a-square-kilometre in size, the tiny island of Sombrero Chino gets its name from its appearance: a Chinese hat. Lying just off the southeastern tip of San Salvador Island (James), this island, only formed fairly recently, makes a beautiful visit as one explores along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. Several species of shore birds can be spotted, along with marine iguanas, lava lizards and sally lightfoot crabs. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities with white-tipped reef sharks and tropical fish. Galápagos penguins also zoom past here sometimes. Briefing and dinner.

Wednesday

Disembark at Bartolomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. A great way to start the day! This is a steep climb up a wooden staircase with handrails and several resting and observation stops; the view from the top is worth the effort. Following the walk, a dinghy ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, is rewarding, followed by time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and some snorkelling, with possible Galápagos penguin sightings. Guests can also ride on the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board.

After breakfast, board the panga for the short ride to the landing site at Sullivan Bay on the East Coast of Santiago. Wet landing on a white coral sand beach and a walk over lava that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos.

The last major eruption on Santiago was probably in the early 1900's. One observer aboard a sailing vessel reported that the ship approached the lava flow so closely that the pine tar used to seal the hull of the ship began to soften, and the captain had to hurry the ship away from the bay. Briefing and dinner.

In the afternoon, a wet landing for an easy stroll observing thousands of birds, mainly frigate birds, red footed and masked boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. Optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks. Lunch on board.

The morning starts with a very interesting panga ride along the cliffs and then disembark (dry landing) on rocks for a steep climb (90 feet) up some stairs. Once at the top of the stairs, the land is flat, allowing for a stimulating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of masked boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels. Those not wishing to disembark can enjoy a longer panga ride along the cliffs (depending on weather conditions). Farewell Cocktail, departure briefing and dinner.

Disembark at Baltra Island. Transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the continent.

The itineraries and programmeme are subject to change without prior notice, due mainly to adjustments in the policies and regulations of the Galápagos National Park, weather conditions, seasonal changes and safety reasons.

Wet landing: as the dinghy edges onto a sandy beach, guests step into knee-deep water and wade ashore