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

Rates for 2010

Decks	Double	Single
Iguana	US$4,656	6,984

* From Dec.19 to January 04, please add $150 per person. Fuel surcharge per person $203

Does not include any airfares. Children under 12 years old sharing room with parents 20% disocunt.

Itinerary...departs every Friday

8 days/ 7 nights

YACHT LA PINTA
ITINERARY
Effective September 15, 2009

Itinerary is 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.

FRIDAY TO FRIDAY

FRIDAY
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal [Chatham] Island)
Morning arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the small and cozy capital of Galapagos. This attractive port is the provincial capital of the Galápagos Islands (population ca 4,000), along a crescent-shaped bay. Visit the San Cristóbal Interpretation Center, located in a natural setting, that allows visitors to obtain information for a better understanding of the natural history of the Galápagos, with a great emphasis on human history and conservation. Transfer to board Y/LA PINTA. Welcome introductory briefing, and lunch. Boat Drill and other activities will be explained by the staff.
Isla Lobos and Playa Ochoa (San Cristobal[Chatham] Island)
A zodiac ride along the rocky shoreline of Isla Lobos: a rugged satellite islet of San Cristobal, home of Galapagos sea lions, brown pelicans, and marine iguanas. A small colony of frigate birds, trees and stunning vistas of nearby kicker Rock.
And/or:
Aimed for snorkellers and beach lovers: A wet landing on a coralline beach (Playa Ochoa) will offer the first opportunity to swim or snorkel. Highlights ashore include the Chatham (San Cristobal) Mockingbird, Chatham Lava Lizard; both species are endemic to this island, and seen nowhere else in Galapagos. We may also spot Yellow Warblers, Galapagos flycatchers etc. These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked upon, back in September 1835, as San Cristobal was the first island where he set foot in the Galapagos. Back on board, join us at the bar saloon for a cocktail offered by the Captain, enjoy the expedition plan for the next day followed by dinner.

SATURDAY
North Seymour Island
Morning 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. An opportunity for snorkeling or coastal exploration. Lunch on board.
Cerro Dragón (Santa Cruz Island)
Explore the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island, at Cerro Dragon, where an important project to save the endemic land iguanas was successful in protecting these reptiles against introduced predators. Today the iguana population is booming again, and individuals may be seen basking in the sun or feeding on the opuntia cacti. To reach this “Dragon Hill” we pass a small lagoon, feeding ground for colorful waders like stilts and greater flamingoes. Back on board, our expedition plan will reveal the details of next day’s activities.

SUNDAY
Post Office Bay, Champion Islet (Floreana [Charles] Island)

Wet landing at the historic barrel that served as a post office, to learn about the human side of the islands, its early inhabitants and the adventures of pirates and whalers. Possibility to snorkel from the zodiacs around Champion Islet or a ride on the glass-bottom boat. A zodiac ride along Champion islet may show the rarest land bird in Galápagos: the Charles Mockingbird. Lunch on board.
Punta Cormorant (Floreana [Charles] Island)

Disembark at Punta Cormorant (wet landing) for an easy walk to see the flamingos that inhabit a brackish-water lagoon, and other birds like stilts and sandpipers. Return to the beach and possibility to swim; there is great snorkeling at this site or kayak from the beach. Next day’s expedition plan and dinner

MONDAY
Punta Moreno (Isabela [Albemarle] Island)
Dry landing over a young lava field. A dramatic scenery of pahoe-hoe lava that stretches to the foot of some of the most active volcanoes in Galápagos (Cerro Azul and Santo Tomás a.k.a. Sierra Negra). The landscape will be briefly interrupted by small scattered brackish lagoons. Lush vegetation and brightly colored birds are a striking contrast with the surrounding jet black lava. A panga ride along the shore will reveal mangrove tenants like rays, young sharks, nesting pelicans and flightless birds like penguins and the endemic cormorant. Swimming or snorkeling.Lunch on board.
Punta Espinoza (Fernandina [Narborough] Island)
The afternoon brings us to the jewel of the Galapagos National Park, and youngest island, Fernandina. Disembark (dry landing) for a one-mile walk. Punta Espinoza has an amazing combination of barrenness with much wildlife. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina has 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. Expedition plan and dinner.

TUESDAY
Highlands of Santa Cruz [Indefatigable] Island
After breakfast, disembark (dry landing) to visit the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, an Scalesia forest and the twin pit craters geology formation, 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. Return to Puerto Ayora for lunch at the poolside of the Finch Bay Eco Hotel.

Puerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research Station
Afternoon 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. Late afternoon stroll along the main street of Puerto Ayora before embarking on Yacht LA PINTA. Next day’s expedition plan and dinner.

WEDNESDAY
Bartolomé Island
A small satellite island of the neighboring Santiago Island, Bartolomé is a landmark of Galápagos. Broken volcanic material reveals some of the most striking volcanic landscapes: the Pinnacle rock. After a dry landing, the short, yet somewhat steep trail will unfold virtually every volcanic feature expected to be found in Galápagos. Lava flows, tuff, cinder and spatter cones. To reach the summit a wooden staircase was build to minimize erosion on the island´s slopes. The vista is the prize: The Pinnacle Rock next to golden beaches and turquoise waters. This is the introduction to the next activity: swimming and snorkeling along the north beach of Bartolomé. Lunch on board.
Rábida Island
Only a short sailing distance from Bartolomé is the colorful island of Rábida. Aquatic activities will include swarms of reef fish, sea lions and often large rays. Glass Bottom boat is an option for non-snorkeler. The day can end with a rewarding stroll along the trail up to the viewing rocks over the red beach. A deciduous forest of palo santo trees, home to Darwin finches and Galápagos doves. Expedition plan and dinner. Weather permitting, stargazing from the outer deck at night.

THURSDAY
Gardner Bay (Española [Hood] Island)
After breakfast, disembark (wet landing) at a white coral beach where you can take a short walk and watch the sea lions, Hood mockingbirds, finches or enjoy the beach. There is great snorkeling in this area (snorkeling equipment is available for guests at no extra cost), kayak or ride the glass-bottom boat. Lunch on board.
Punta Suárez (Española [Hood] Island)
Afternoon dry landing for an exciting walk on lava terrain to visit its unique sea bird colonies, including the Waved Albatrosses (May - December), colonies of Nazca- and blue footed boobies, swallow tailed gulls and the famous blowhole. Departure briefing and dinner.

FRIDAY
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal [Chatham] Island)
Disembark at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Bus ride to see the emblematic reptile of Galápagos at la Galapaguera. Decidiouos forest, land birds, endemic plants, etc. Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the continent.

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, new immigration card $10 )
Bar
Gifts and items of personal nature

Important facts

Please read the Itinerary as a guide only. Routes 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.

LA PINTA DECKS:

For further information about these programs have your Travel Agent call Tara Tours

1-800-327-0080 or send mail to: tara@taratours.com

For more programs to Central & South America visit www.taratours.com