Aboard the Letty, Northern Circuit
Destination
Galapagos
Duration
11 Days
Activity Level
Active
Comfort Level
Superior
We invite you to join this joint Galapagos cruise with Leslie Science & Nature Center, the Ann Arbor Hands on Museum and Journeys International for a 10 day educational adventure to the Galapagos Islands. Karen Rendell, for the LSNC will join this group. Karen brings 13 years at LSNC and over 20 years experience as a naturalist working at nature centers and environmental education centers throughout the U.S. teaching environmental education and leading adventure courses. She is an avid traveler personally and professionally having led young adult travel groups in Panama, Sweden, and Russia. Karen is a graduate from Michigan State University with a degree in Park, Recreation and Tourism.
The first-class motor-yacht, M/YLetty, was custom-designed for Galapagos excursions, offering tremendous value for superior comfort. Two experienced English-speaking naturalist guides attend to the details of your Galapagos cruise. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than ten passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the islands’ diverse wildlife. Stable rubber boats (Zodiacs), locally called pangas, ferry passengers to shore for island visits. This week-long, comprehensive itinerary visit the islands’ most spectacular sites to witness the unique plants and animals that have made these islands famous. Travel to the Galapagos is good year around. In November you can expect summer like temperatures in the 70’s and very little rain. Waters should be teaming with wildlife and the birds nesting. The seas around the Galapagos Islands are protected from extremely rough waters by the islands. You may encounter some motion when moving between islands and those sensitive to motion sickness should consider taking medication.
Built in 1991 and refurbished every year, the 20-passenger yacht features ten double outside-facing cabins located on three decks with polished teak wood interiors and either windows or portholes. The yacht is fully air-conditioned, and all cabins have private bath facilities. Picture windows surround the upper two decks and offer spectacular panoramic views of ocean and islands. Enjoy sea breezes, sunny days, and starlit nights on lounge chairs and recliners located on the sun deck and observation points. Snorkeling equipment, custom wet suits, and sea kayaks are all available at no additional cost.
This departure in conjunction with the LSNC is being geared towards adults and only children age 16 and older will be allowed.
Great For
- Wildlife
- Families with Kids
- Geographic Significance
Itinerary
Day 1 October 30 Arrive Quito
Arrive in Quito, Ecuador, where you will be met and transferred to your local hotel. Quito is located in a huge valley of the Andes mountains at an altitude of 9,455 feet, it’s a great place to extend your stay to explore the city. Overnight for two nights.
Meals
None
Lodging
Patio Andaluz Hotel
Day 2 October 31 Quito
Following breakfast stroll down cobblestone streets and through flowering plazas. Visit the old colonial center of Independence Square, the elegant cathedrals of San Francisco, La Campion and San Austine, Quito’s oldest monastery. Walk through the residential sections and past the Legislative Palace (Congress). Panecillio Hill overlooks the city and snow-capped mountains. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore on your own or relax.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
Patio Andaluz Hotel
Day 3 November 1 San Cristobal/Cerro Colorado
You will be transferred to the airport where you will collect your tickets for your flight to the Galapagos.
Upon arrival at Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal Island, the crew is waiting at the airport to escort you to your anchored yacht. After the welcome briefing, buffet lunch, and safety drill, you travel by bus into the interior of San Cristobal to visit La Galapaguera Cerro Colorado, where the National Park has established a breeding program for the tortoises and set up an information center for visitors. Along the trail, you may find the San Cristobal (Chatham) mockingbird and Calandrinia plant, both endemic to the island. Here, you will see the terrestrial tortoises living in their natural habitat, and learn about their origin, evolution and threats by introduced animals.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 November 2 Genovesa/Darwin Bay/Philip's Steps
Spend the entire day on Genovesa (Tower) Island, considered to be one of the most spectacular islands in all of the Galapagos for its variety and sheer number of birds. This morning, we have a dry landing at Prince Philip’s Steps. Red-footed boobies nest here in Palo Santo trees, and Nazca boobies nest near the trail. In an open lava field, we find storm petrels in large numbers. If you are lucky, we will see the elusive short-eared owl. Look for the beautiful Red-billed Tropic bird found in the crevices along the cliff by kayak or Zodiac. You can choose to swim or snorkel from the beach with sea lions in these northern warmer waters or for those with experience, we offer snorkeling in deeper water. This afternoon, we have a wet landing on Darwin Bay, a coral sand beach where swallow-tailed and lava gulls gather near the tide pools. Enter a forest of Optuntia cactus and mangroves where colonies of great frigatebirds nest. The males inflate their red-throated pouches to attract females as they fly overhead. The trail leads through a rich inter-tidal zone where we find a great diversity of wildlife.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 November 3 Las Bachas/Cerro Dragon
This morning you will visit Las Bachas, Spanish for “the barges.” There is a long stretch of a soft white sand beach and interior lagoons where we find the greater flamingo. The snorkeling from the beach here is wonderful. At Black Turtle Cove (Caleta Tortuga Negra) we have a zodiac ride through a series of coves and inlets surrounded by mangroves. Here you can view pairs of mating sea turtles (Sept to Feb), white-tipped reef sharks and golden cow-nosed rays. Located on the northern tip of Santa Cruz is Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill). Along the trail, we find Darwin Finches, Galapagos Flycatchers, Yellow Warblers, Audubon Shearwater and the endemic land iguanas, orange-yellow in color with large spines along their backs, were once part of the Darwin Station’s breeding program. We find pink flamingos feeding in the salt-water lagoon as well as other lagoon birds; stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers and more. From the top of the hill, we enjoy a majestic view of the bay island covered in Opuntia cactus, Palo Santo and Cordia Lutea (muyuyu). After the briefing and dinner, we sail toward the western islands and cross the equator line for the second time.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 November 4 Fernandina/Urbina Bay, Isabela
This morning, we have a wet landing at Punta Espinoza, Fernandina, the youngest and most pristine Island in the Galapagos. Recent lava flows formed by an active volcano stretch their way around the coast. Hundreds of marine iguanas, the largest colony in Galapagos, bask in the sun along the rugged shoreline. Observe sea lion harems with resident bulls carefully guarding their territories. Flightless cormorants build their nests on the point, and Galapagos hawks fly overhead. There is a chance to snorkel here with sea turtles. After lunch, we cross the Bolivar Channel, where we often spot whales and dolphins riding the ship’s bow wave. We disembark at Urbina Bay, ISABELA, where we find four miles of its coastal seabed, with marine life exposed due to a dramatic uplift in 1954 when the volcano erupted. The marine remnants of coral skeletons, some of them waist-high, are visited after a wet landing on the beach. Urbina is home to the very large and colorful Galapagos land iguanas, occasionally giant tortoises, Darwin Finches. Brown Pelicans and Flightless Cormorants also nest here. Giant Marine Iguanas are seen along the coast. You may encounter penguins while snorkeling here. At Punta Vicente Roca, a Zodiac ride offers an incredible view of the tuff walls, we can enter the wave-sculpted cave and find sea turtle who frequent this area. You may spot the dorsal fin of a Mola Mola, an odd looking giant sun fish. Return to the yacht for briefing and dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 November 5 Isabela/Elizabeth Bay/Tagus Cove
Our morning excursion is a Zodiac ride in Elizabeth Bay, Isabela that begins at a secluded cove lined with large red mangrove trees where you will see turtles, rays, and shore birds. We then motor to the rocky islets known as “Las Marielas,” to view colonies of nesting penguins, flightless cormorants, and giant marine iguanas. Isabela was created when six volcanoes flowed together and formed the largest Island in Galapagos. We have a dry landing at Tagus Cove, located on the western Island of ISABELA and a favorite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries. Old graffiti dating back to the 1800′s is written on the rocky cliffs. Explore the Coves by Zodiac or kayak to find Galapagos Penguins, Boobies, Pelicans and other seabirds. An uphill hike brings us to a salt-water lagoon, a scenic overlook with a spectacular view of the ocean, lava fields and volcanic formations. An excellent snorkeling site is offered from the zodiac or take out a Kayak and explore the shoreline. After dinner, a sky full of stars beckons to go on deck and observe the galaxy while crossing the equator for the last time.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 November 6 Santiago/Puerto Egas/Rabida Island
This morning, we disembark on Rabida Island, located near Santiago. Rabida sports the most diversified volcanic rocks of all the islands and is considered the geographic center of the Galapagos. The dark red sand beach resulted from erosion of volcanic stones. Follow a trail that leads to a salt water lagoon, and observe Greater Flamingos as they feed. Brown Pelicans nest in the mangroves at the far side of the lagoon. After the walk, there is time for snorkeling.This afternoon, we have a wet landing at Puerto Egas, Santiago. Stroll along the shoreline looking for octopus, starfish, and other sea life caught in the tide pools. At low tide, catch a glimpse of marine iguanas as they feed on exposed green algae. Watch for great blue herons, lava herons, American oystercatchers, and yellow-crowned night herons. Our walk ends at the grottos, deep pools of clear water where we encounter shy fur sea lions once on the verge of extinction. Before returning to the yacht, enjoy some snorkeling and kayaking if you wish.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 November 7 Santa Cruz/Darwin Station
Today after breakfast, disembark for a trip to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Visit all three tortoise corals and the breeding center with new hatchlings and miniature tortoises not yet ready to be repatriated to the islands where they were born. Scientists from all over the globe come to the station to conduct biological research from anatomy to zoology. You will also visit Van Straelen Hall, where there are exhibits and a short video presentation. Visitors can see the tortoise and land iguana corrals. Puerto Ayora is the social heart of the islands with the largest population of 24,000 inhabitants. This evening you have the option to return to your yacht for a buffet dinner or remain in town on your own account. Those who return to the yacht will be provided zodiacs to return to town to shop for souvenirs or stop at an internet café. Zodiacs will be provided for your return to the yachts.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 November 8 San Cristobal/Quito or Guayaquil
This morning, drop anchor in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal. Visit the Interpretation Center, which was opened in 1999. Here, you will gain a more complete understanding of the natural and human history of the Galapagos Islands. Afterwards, spend some time in port before heading to the airport for your noontime flight back to the mainland, where you will transfer to your international flight home.
Meals
Breakfast
Day 11 November 9 Home
Arrive home today after a fun week of crusing.
Meals
Breakfast
Dates & Price
Dates
This trip will be customized for you on your dates of choice.
For dates and customization options for this adventure, please contact us.
Best Time of Year to Visit
We invite you to join this joint Galapagos cruise with Leslie Science & Nature Center, the Ann Arbor Hands on Museum and Journeys International for a 10 day educational adventure to the Galapagos Islands. Karen Rendell, for the LSNC will join this group. Karen brings 13 years at LSNC and over 20 years experience as a naturalist working at nature centers and environmental education centers throughout the U.S. teaching environmental education and leading adventure courses. She is an avid traveler personally and professionally having led young adult travel groups in Panama, Sweden, and Russia. Karen is a graduate from Michigan State University with a degree in Park, Recreation and Tourism.
The first-class motor-yacht, M/YLetty, was custom-designed for Galapagos excursions, offering tremendous value for superior comfort. Two experienced English-speaking naturalist guides attend to the details of your Galapagos cruise. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than ten passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the islands’ diverse wildlife. Stable rubber boats (Zodiacs), locally called pangas, ferry passengers to shore for island visits. This week-long, comprehensive itinerary visit the islands’ most spectacular sites to witness the unique plants and animals that have made these islands famous. Travel to the Galapagos is good year around. In November you can expect summer like temperatures in the 70’s and very little rain. Waters should be teaming with wildlife and the birds nesting. The seas around the Galapagos Islands are protected from extremely rough waters by the islands. You may encounter some motion when moving between islands and those sensitive to motion sickness should consider taking medication.
Built in 1991 and refurbished every year, the 20-passenger yacht features ten double outside-facing cabins located on three decks with polished teak wood interiors and either windows or portholes. The yacht is fully air-conditioned, and all cabins have private bath facilities. Picture windows surround the upper two decks and offer spectacular panoramic views of ocean and islands. Enjoy sea breezes, sunny days, and starlit nights on lounge chairs and recliners located on the sun deck and observation points. Snorkeling equipment, custom wet suits, and sea kayaks are all available at no additional cost.
This departure in conjunction with the LSNC is being geared towards adults and only children age 16 and older will be allowed.
Rates Per Person
Need to Know
Rates Per Person -
Booby Cabins
$7025
Iguana Cabins
$6575
Single Supplement
$4200
Rates Per Person -
Cabins:
Booby Cabins: $7025 (2 cabins available for 4 persons)
Iguana Cabins: $6575 (4 cabins available for 8 persons)
Limited Triple Cabins available: -$200
Need to Know
Costs Include:
National Park entry fee & tourist card
Quito/Galapagos/Quito airfare
Quito hotel package: hotel 2 nights, transfers & city tour
Not included:
International airfare, estimate: $1100 from Detroit
About the ships
M/Y Letty – A seasoned captain, 8 dedicated crew members, and 2 experienced English-speaking naturalist guides attend to the details of your Galapagos cruise. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than 10 passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the Islands’ diverse wildlife. Small wooden boats, locally called pangas, ferry passengers to shore for island visits. Outfitted in 1991, the fleet of three 20-passenger first-class motor-yachts Eric and Letty are 83′ long with 24′ beams each and exclusively custom-designed for Galapagos excursions, with spacious accommodations for small groups.
Polished teak wood interior features fully air-conditioned cabins, public spaces, a dining room, a well-stocked bar, a conference area (with television, stereo cassette/cd equipment), and a book and video library. Accommodations include ten cabins located on three decks, each with a large private bathroom, fresh hot-and-cold-water shower, either two twin lower beds or one double bed, a roomy closet, overhead storage, separate climate controls, intercom system, bottled water toiletries, and fresh towels. Snorkeling equipment, wet suits, sea kayaks, and beach towels are provided at no additional charge.
Breakfast and lunch are casual buffets with fresh, creatively prepared produce. Unwind quickly in the evening with creamy soups, ceviches, grilled seafood, roasted potato salad, unique desserts, and other delicacies of both Ecuadorian and international cuisines.
Please note that this trip operates under different payment and cancellation policies than those described in our complete Terms & Conditions as noted on our website and elsewhere. Please review the complete Terms & Conditions prior to submitting a deposit.
Expenses covered
Normally, our stated land costs include the cost of all guides, leaders, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, food and entry fees as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the planned itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but, rarely, factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses not covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in itineraries; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
Payment and Deposit Schedule
For individual reservations a deposit of $1200 is due per person, $1800 for singles. Balance is due 90 days prior to departure. For reservations requiring 3 or more cabins, a deposit of $1200 is due per person, $1800 for singles. A second deposit of $1200 per person, $1800 for singles is due 180 days before departure. Final payment is due 90 days prior. All payments are NON-REFUNDABLE. All payments are subject to cancellation if payments are not received by the due dates. Airlines require full payment when tickets are issued. All payments may be made by Visa, Master Card, American Express, or check, and the Reservation Form may be submitted via our website. *Please inquire about HOLIDAY departures terms.
Airfare
We can help you secure air travel arrangements to correspond with land travel booked through Journeys International. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we can help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times.
Insurance
When you make your reservation, we strongly recommend the purchase of comprehensive travel insurance in case of emergency situations. Please contact us for a recommended policy.
Itinerary Change Fee
There will be a $40 fee for changes once an itinerary has been confirmed and approved. Additional cancellation penalties or change fees may apply as per our terms and conditions. The passenger is responsible for such fees.
Duration 11 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. For the Galapagos, the land cost is actually the per person cabin cost. The cost of the additional nights in Quito or Guayaquil, are not included.
Group Size 12
The stated range indicates minimum required for guaranteed departure and maximum accepted on the scheduled dates. Exceptions can often be made for private departures.
Comfort Level
Superior
Delightful motor yacht
Activity Level
Active
Walking and hikes, some over rough terrain, wet and dry shore landings from Zodiacs
Activity Level
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is applicable if a roommate is not available or if single accommodation is specifically requested. While single accommodation is not available on all trips, we will try and honor this request whenever possible.