Galapagos 4 day south islands cruise itinerary on board the Ocean Spray


In just 4 days you will be able to set foot on 4 different islands and observe several endemic and intriguing Galapagos species. One of the smaller islands like Isla lobos will constrast deeply with San Cristobal, both holding amazing wildife yet different landscapes. On this route you will be able to spot the 3 types of Boobies in 1 place - Punta Pitt is a nesting site for red, blue and nazca booby birds, you will also have the possibility to swim with sea lions, marine turtles and other amazing marine creatures. A short program that will offer you the possibility to experience the uniqueness of this archipelago. The Ocean Spray is a smooth ride that will not dissapoint.
Day 1: San Cristobal Island: Lobos Island & Kicker Rock

San Cristobal: Arrival and transfer to boat

AM: San Cristobal: Lobos island / Kicker Rock

The name of this island means ¨Sea Lion Island¨. This appropriately named island is ripe with noisy, frolicking, jolly sea lions who will welcome you to their home with open, well, fins. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies.

Kicker Rock: This striking rock formation is located a couple hours off the western shore of San Cristobal. Jutting out of the water, the rocks stand vertically at hundreds of feet above the ocean divided by a small channel. Although there are no landing areas, kayaking and scuba diving allow visitors to spot a variety of marine life.

Day 2: San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point & Witch Hill

AM: San Cristobal (Pitt Point)

Pitt Point, situated on the north-eastern tip of the island, hosts frigatebirds, storm petrels, and all three types of Booby Birds: the Nazca, Blue-footed and Red-footed Boobies. A steep trail goes up a cliff and through a ravine leading visitors to an area with an abundance of birds. This site is also great for snorkeling and scuba diving.

PM:San Cristobal: Witch Hill

Located on the northern coast, this eroded hill and its surroundings present one of the most picturesque beaches in the Galapagos with its white powdery sand and the abundance of animals. Wildlife includes sea turtles, rays, and various types of Booby Birds. The clear water provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying swimming and snorkeling.

Day 3: Floreana Island: Post Office Bay, Cormorant Point & Devil’s Crown

AM: Floreana: Post Office Bay

In the 18th century whalers passing through the islands placed a wooden barrel on Floreana Island for use as an unofficial mail box. The tradition continues today as visitors leave addressed postcards in the barrel and sort through left mail to deliver at home.

PM: Floreana: Cormorant Point / Devil’s Crown

This site hosts a large flamingo lagoon where other birds such as common stilts, White-cheeked Pintails can also be seen. The beaches on this island are distinct: The “Green Beach” named so due to its green color, which comes from a high percentage of olivine crystals in the sand, and the “Four Sand Beach” composed of white coral.

Devil´s Crown: One of the best snorkeling sites in the Galapagos, this volcanic crater has been eroded by the waves leaving the northern and southern sides poking out of the water. The coral reef in the middle is perfect for attracting marine life. Snorkelers enjoy the variety of marine life and exciting currents that rush through the crown, creating an exhilarating experience

Day 4: Santa Cruz Island

AM: Santa Cruz: Black Turtle Cove

Black Turtle Cove is situated in the northern part of Santa Cruz. This inlet is surrounded by mangroves and is only accessible by dinghy. The shallow cove is a safe haven for young marine life. Blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of rays are often spotted here.

Baltra : Transfer to airport

Highlights

  • Spot Red and Blue footed boobies alongside the Nazca (masked) boobies all nesting at the same location - Punta Pitt
  • Visit Lobos island for encounters with playful sea lions, also an important nesting site for frigate birds and blue footed boobies
  • Paddle on a zodiac with your guide as you explore the nursing area for white tipped reef sharks and sea turtles at Black Turtle Cove
  • The Olive green sand beach at Punta Cormorant on Floreana takes you by a flamingo lagoon and to the hunting grounds of the night heron
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