Witness evolution in action
As one of the world’s first operators of Galápagos expeditions, HX has been taking curious travellers on once-in-a-lifetime adventures here since 1969. With its almost mythic giant tortoises, endemic marine iguanas and over 150 species of bird, wildlife is one of the most compelling reasons to travel to Galápagos. Here you’ll observe animals and birds that are impossible to see elsewhere, both in carefully maintained environments and beautiful natural habitats. Rest assured, we keep a respectful distance from them, honouring conservation efforts and protecting the area’s biodiversity. It's all part of our mission to be the world's most sustainable expedition travel company.
Walk the golden sands of Bartolomé Island under the gaze of its towering Pinnacle Rock. Here you can swim or snorkel, watch marine life from our glass-bottom boat and spot penguins on the shore.
See where global scientists and volunteers work tirelessly to conserve the remarkable diversity of the islands. Watch baby tortoises in incubators, explore natural history collections and more.
From Blue-footed Boobies to the mighty Waved Albatross, there are dozens of species to spot here. You’ll also find red lava lizards and see the famous El Soplador blast water 75ft into the air.
Take in the from Baroness Cove before visiting the barrel that’s been the archipelago’s post office for 200 years. Snorkel or board our glass-bottom boat to explore around Champion Islet.
A birder’s paradise. Climb Prince Philip’s Steps to observe Nazca and Red-footed Boobies, Great Frigatebirds and Storm Petrels, and enjoy swimming, snorkelling and kayaking by the beach.
Galapaguera is one of the archipelago’s breeding centres for Giant Galápagos Tortoises – a semi–natural environment where tortoises can hatch outside incubators and adults can thrive in semi-captivity.
Legendary wildlife
The Galápagos archipelago is extraordinarily varied in terrain, featuring a range of habitats, from arid and dry to lush and green. As a result, bird and animal species have branched off into subspecies in order to adapt to natural conditions. The most well-known of these are the land and marine iguanas, the giant tortoises and the so-called Darwin’s Finches. These finches vary widely in size and beak formation, reflecting their adaptation to different habitats and food sources.
Galápagos’s most famous resident
It was the Galápagos Giant Tortoise that gave the islands their name, and it continues to enchant nature lovers across the globe. Their leisurely existence – grazing, sunbathing and resting for 16 hours a day – belies a sad history of hunting, deforestation and near extinction. Fortunately, the Charles Darwin Foundation, which you’ll visit on your expedition, is working hard to protect all 12 species on the islands through research and breeding programmes.
Colourful local characters
Notoriously lacking in caution but with plenty of charm, the Blue-footed Booby is a seabird largely associated with Galápagos. Its name originates from the Spanish word “bobo”, meaning foolish, and while their comical courtship dance and curiosity around humans may fit the bill, they are also extraordinarily graceful in flight, diving with pinpoint accuracy into schools of fish, and sometimes even catching them in mid-air.
A marine marvel
In the Galápagos Islands, you’ll have a chance to spot the only marine lizard species in the world, including the Española marine species – often dubbed the ‘Christmas iguana’, thanks to its beautiful red and green colours during the breeding season. Your guides will also help you track down the three-foot-long Galápagos Land Iguana and, if you’re lucky, you may even catch sight of the recently discovered Galápagos Pink Iguana.
The islands' most surprising resident
The endemic Galápagos Penguin is the third smallest species of penguin in the world. They’ve adapted to their home in fascinating ways, from panting like a dog to cool down to having bare patches of skin to help radiate heat. You’ll often spot them holding their wings out and panting in the cool sea breeze, as well as hunting in pairs and squeezing into narrow crevasses and caves to hide from the sun.
A typical day in Galápagos
Exploring the Galápagos Islands is like stepping back in time. You’ll see nature as it should be, and witness wildlife thriving in the archipelago that inspired Darwin’s theories about evolution.
Wildlife watching
In Galápagos, you don’t just watch the wildlife – you almost become a part of it. Your Expedition Team will guide you on nature walks across wild islands, where you’ll share the trails with land iguanas and lava lizards, and trips in small expedition boats to sail among sea lions and marine iguanas. Rest assured, we follow a strict code of conduct about maintaining distance from the animals. We are, after all, guests in their home.
Take to the waters
The best way to explore the clear blue waters of Galápagos is to step off Santa Cruz II into one of our small expedition boats. These nimble vessels are designed for cruising around the archipelago without disturbing the wildlife, so they’re perfect for spotting land, shore and sea birds. They also give us access to up to 13 of the islands, so we can see towering cacti in arid landscapes one day, and revel in lush tropical highlands the next.
Kayaking
For those who enjoy kayaking – or are trying it for the first time – the experience in Galápagos is unlike any other. Here you’ll skim across crystal-blue waters, taking your place in the realm of wildlife around you. Guided by your Expedition Team, you’ll head for areas across the archipelago where we can encounter animals and birds in close proximity.
A deeper dive
Once you’ve observed the variety of birds, reptiles and mammals above, snorkelling around the islands is a welcome chance to cool off and view marine life at its best. Here you’ll see or swim alongside brightly coloured fish, placid turtles and the world’s only marine iguanas – always keeping a respectful distance, of course. If you prefer to stay dry, Santa Cruz II has a glass-bottom boat which allows you to see all the marine life from the comfort of your seat.
Unparalleled flora and fauna
This archipelago of volcanic islands is something of a living laboratory of plant and animal life, playing host to over 9,000 species thriving side by side. It’s no wonder that this place inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. Here the spirit of discovery lives on as scientists, educators, research assistants and volunteers from all over the world, work tirelessly both to conserve and boost its unique natural heritage.
The Big 15
Numerous species live in harmony in Galápagos, including members of what’s known as the “Big 15”. Highlights are the uniquely tropical Galápagos Penguin, the three-foot-long Galápagos land iguana, three sub-species of boobies, and many more.
Adventures for all ages
Our Galápagos expeditions are perfect for families looking for an unforgettable experience to share. With safety and comfort always in mind, an HX adventure in this iconic archipelago is family-friendly and ripe for memory-making. Alongside snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking, you and your family will learn about evolution and ecosystems, digging deeper into a wide range of subjects in the Science Centre, with plenty of fun along the way.
With their unique wildlife and captivating natural beauty, the Galápagos Islands offer something truly unique. Alongside activities such as snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking, you and your family will learning about evolution and diverse ecosystems, digging deeper into a wide range of subjects in the Science Centre, and simply having fun whilst doing so.
All kids love animals, so sharing close encounters with giant tortoises, playful sea lions and more is an engaging and enjoyable way for them to learn. Experience all the excitement of an HX voyage together and cement treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
Every day in Galápagos is full of wonder and young people of all ages will find plenty to be excited about. With our expert Expedition Team, they’ll have information and assistance readily available as they learn and explore. Alongside expedition boat rides and beach walks, there’s bike riding and kayaking to try. A visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station is another highlight, with its giant tortoise breeding centre and guided tours to spark their curiosity.
Adventure is All-Inclusive
A cruise to Antarctica with HX includes everything from daily excursions and activities to our onboard Science Centre, meals, gratuities, drinks and more. All designed to give you the expedition experience of a lifetime.
Food
Enjoy daily culinary adventures in our onboard restaurants. Here you’ll be served beautifully prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, starting with a generous morning buffet and ending with an exquisite dinner, prepared with fresh ingredients by our onboard chefs.
Drinks
Your day begins with freshly brewed coffee and tea, followed by a selection of hot and cold drinks available at all times. After a day on the ice, relax with a glass of wine or beer, or toast your voyage with an expertly mixed cocktail. Drinks are served all day and evening at no additional cost (excluding premium drinks).
Activities
Every day, you’ll be joined by our Expedition Team. Our guides are carefully chosen experts in fields like natural history and climate science, and they’ll lead you on hikes, community visits and small boat trips, offering vital information and insight all the way. They’ll also deliver fascinating talks in our onboard lecture hall, accompany you in our Science Center and brief you on the next day’s schedule.
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An Expedition Team like no other
Your friendly and knowledgeable Expedition Team is comprised of local Galápagos experts. They come with extensive experience, sharing their love of their home islands with travellers from all over the world, always delighted to experience the wonder of discovery with you.
Your team will be your guides as you explore this world-renowned ecological hotspot, leading you on shore landings and nature walks across the islands and bringing you to the best places to observe the wildlife. As experts in the islands and their conservation, they’ll explain the efforts that are being made to preserve this precious place. Expedition groups are small, with a maximum of 11 guests per guide, allowing them to tailor your experience to you.
Life onboard
Perfectly proportioned for sailing around the Galápagos Islands, MS Santa Cruz II is all part of your experience. With room for up to 90 guests, there’s something wonderfully cosy yet elegant about this ship and, after a long day of exploration, you’ll relish the chance to enjoy fine dining in our restaurant, relax in the hot tub, work out in the gym or enhance your knowledge in the Science Centre.
Comfort and style
Designed with a calming Scandi style and all the modern conveniences a voyager could wish for, MS Santa Cruz II offers the perfect space in which to reflect and relax, as well as enjoy the unique experience of sailing these little-known waters. Sunbathe on our ample sun deck, enjoy a drink or two in the Expedition Bar and settle down with a good book in the library, all in the same day.
Culinary exploration
Our accomplished and creative chefs take pride in preparing fresh, delicious dishes that spotlight locally-sourced organic ingredients and flavours from your chosen destination. Here on MS Santa Cruz II you’ll enjoy fine dining in the Beagle Restaurant, with an exquisite menu designed by our Gastronomy Director, and the Panorama Bar & Lounge is where ship events will take place, as well as lectures and relaxation. There’s Wi-Fi and direct access to our al fresco terrace.
Rest and relaxation
After a long day of exploration, relaxation is next on the itinerary. Back on the ship, you can settle in the bar with friends, sit back in the library with a book, lounge in the hot tub on the Expedition Deck, or enjoy some me-time with yoga or a workout in our well-appointed fitness centre.
The HX Foundation
HX Foundation is a collaboration between HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, our employees and our guests. Together, we unite in our commitment to fight climate change, strengthen local communities and stop unsustainable mass tourism. It's all part of our mission to be the world's most sustainable expedition travel company. With the best ESG ranking in 2023 of any cruise company by Morningstar Sustainalytics, we've led the industry with initiatives like carbon off-setting and with our hybrid powered cruise ships, which were a world first.
