M/C Hermes Mega Catamaran

HERMES GALAPAGOS MEGA CATAMARAN

Itinerary A

5 Day/4 Night (Sunday – Monday)

Day 1 - Sunday - Baltra Airport / Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach

AM      Baltra Airport

Upon your arrival at the Baltra airport, a Hermes’ guide will welcome you to the Galapagos Islands and will escort you to the superyacht where you will enjoy a delicious lunch and learn about Hermes.

PM      Santa Cruz Island: Bachas Beach

In the afternoon you will have your first excursion at Bachas Beach, where the sand is made of decomposed coral, making it soft and white, and a favorite site for nesting sea turtles. You will spot abundant Sally Lightfoot crabs on the lava rocks along the water's edge—these crabs will eat anything they can get their claws on!

The site will also give you the opportunity to see frigate birds, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions.

Day 2 - Monday - Isabela Island: Tagus Cove / Urbina Bay

AM      Isabela Island: Tagus Cove

In the morning, you visit Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, a historic anchorage once favored by whalers and pirates dating back to the 1800s. After a dry landing, you’ll follow a fascinating trail up the slopes of the Darwin Volcano. The hike will reward you with stunning panoramic views and will lead you to the surprising Darwin's Lake—a saltwater crater lake located above sea level!

You’ll embark on a thrilling dinghy ride along the cliffs where you will admire various seabirds, including Blue-footed Boobies, Brown Noddies, and the endemic Flightless Cormorant. Another highlight will be the snorkeling session in the cove: the cold, rich currents attract incredible life. You will swim alongside playful Galapagos Penguins, large schools of fish, and possibly even sea turtles, making this spot an underwater paradise you won't soon forget.

PM      Isabela Island: Urbina Bay

You will visit the extraordinary Urbina Bay, a place formed by a dramatic geological event in 1954 when a large section of the shallow sea bottom uplifted, exposing a sprawling coral reef above sea level. This site, located west of Isabela, will provide you with spectacular views of the towering Alcedo Volcano.

After a wet landing, you will walk through this unusual landscape, where you will witness the impressive coral fossils scattered across the plain, far from the water's edge. This area is also prime territory for observing large Galapagos Land Iguanas, often seen munching on vegetation. This area will be a fantastic spot for snorkeling: you can swim close to a small, resident Galapagos Penguin colony and you will have the rare chance to see the peculiar Galapagos Marine Iguanas feeding underwater on the algae, offering a truly intimate wildlife encounter.

Day 3 - Tuesday - Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point / Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point

AM      Fernandina Island: Espinoza Point

Your morning will deliver an unparalleled wildlife experience at Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island, the youngest and most volcanically active island in Galapagos. After a dry landing, you will embark on a fascinating hike across the black, basaltic lava flows. The morning timing is ideal, as you will witness one of the largest and most concentrated colonies of marine iguanas on Earth, often basking en masse to warm up after their cold nightly dives.

Another highlight of the morning will be observing the endemic Flightless Cormorant. You will have the chance to see these unique birds with their rudimentary wings drying in the sun, or executing clumsy but effective dives in search of food. You must pay attention to the natural tide pools carved into the lava rock, teeming with marine life, where vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs add a splash of scarlet color to the monochrome landscape. From this privileged location, you will enjoy spectacular views across the Bolivar Channel toward Isabela Island and Fernandina's La Cumbre Volcano.

PM      Isabela Island: Vicente Roca Point

Your exploration will take you to the truly unique Vicente Roca Point, located on Isabela’s dramatic northwestern coast. This site, the remnant of a collapsed volcanic cone, will offer an adventure entirely in the water, as there is no landing here. Instead, you will embark on a thrilling panga ride alongside the towering cliffs, where you will seek out seabirds like Blue-footed Boobies, Nazca Boobies, and the endemic, Flightless Cormorants nesting on the rocky ledges.

This site also offer event will be the world-class snorkeling experience. Due to the deep,       nutrient-rich upwelling currents, the waters here are vibrant. You will jump into the ocean for an unforgettable swim, where you will very likely glide alongside dozens of graceful Green Sea Turtles. Moreover, you will have the chance to swim with playful Galapagos Penguins and look for exotic creatures like the peculiar Red-lipped Batfish and the immense Mola Mola (Ocean Sunfish) that sometimes frequent these rich feeding grounds. This marine spectacle will solidify your Galapagos experience!

Day 4 - Wednesday - Santiago Island: Egas Port / Buccaneer Cove

AM      Santiago Island: Egas Port

Your exploration will take you to Egas Port on Santiago Island, a site characterized by its dramatic, black lava sand and volcanic rock formations. This location will immediately immerse you in history, as you will see the rusty remnants of a former salt mine that operated here in the 1960s.

You will embark on a captivating coastal hike that winds past intriguing grottos and natural lava pools. You will witness the charismatic Galapagos Fur Seals—shyer than their sea lion cousins—basking and cooling off in the shade of the grottos. You will also observe large colonies of marine iguanas that blend seamlessly with the dark rock, alongside the vibrant, scuttling Sally Lightfoot crabs. Later, you will grab your snorkel gear for an incredible session right off the beach, where you will swim alongside playful sea lions, sea turtles, and schools of tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters, guaranteeing stunning photos both above and below the surface.

PM      Santiago Island: Buccaneer Cove

The adventure will lead you to the historic Buccaneer Cove, a favorite hideout for pirates, whalers, and buccaneers in centuries past, who used the area to stock up on food and water. This visit is entirely on the water, offering fantastic coastal exploration!

You will jump into the panga (dinghy) and cruise alongside magnificent high cliffs and unique rock formations, witnessing the erosion carved by time and sea. You will spot sea lions and fur seals relaxing on the small beaches below the high cliffs, and you'll see various sea birds like the Brown Pelican nesting in the crevices of the cove. This stunning, sheltered bay will give you fantastic opportunities for photography, capturing the dramatic geology and the abundant wildlife that now reigns supreme where outlaws once moored.

Day 5: Thursday - North Seymour Island / Baltra Airport

AM      North Seymour and Baltra Airport

Your grand finale will be an unforgettable morning excursion to North Seymour Island, an uplifted ocean floor that is now teeming with life. Following a dry landing, you will enter one of the Galapagos' most active nesting colonies. You'll walk along the circular trail, where you'll literally share the path with the wildlife—you will step aside for passing sea lions and prehistoric-looking marine iguanas!

The main draw will be observing the famous Blue-footed Boobies performing their high-stepping courtship dance, often nesting just inches from the trail. Further along, you'll find the large nesting site of the Magnificent Frigatebirds. You will marvel at the males, who will sit perched with their huge, scarlet throat sacks spectacularly inflated to attract a mate. This site provides an unmatched, close-up encounter with Galapagos' most iconic bird species, making it a truly fitting climax to your adventure.

HERMES GALAPAGOS MEGA CATAMARAN 

Itinerary B

5 Day/4 Night (Thursday – Monday)

Day 1 - Thursday - Baltra Airport / Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

AM      Baltra Airport

Upon your arrival at the Baltra airport, a Hermes’ guide will welcome you to the Galapagos Islands and will escort you to the Seymour dock. There, you will board the superyacht and will enjoy a delicious lunch.

PM      Santa Cruz Highlands

Your adventure will begin this afternoon by ascending into the lush, green Santa Cruz Highlands. This dramatic ecological shift will transport you from the arid coast into the humid, misty environment of the highlands. You will visit a tortoise sanctuary, where you will have an incredibly intimate encounter with the majestic Galapagos Giant Tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. You will witness these gentle giants grazing, resting, and bathing in the mud—a truly humbling sight.

Furthermore, you will explore the volcanic origins of the island by walking inside an impressive lava tunnel—subterranean passages formed by ancient molten rock. This visit will provide a perfect blend of unique geology and the iconic wildlife of the islands.

Day 2 - Friday -  Rabida Island / Bartolome Island

AM      Rabida Island 

Your morning will begin with a spectacular wet landing on Rabida Island, instantly capturing your attention with its stunning deep red sand—a color created by the high iron oxide content in the lava. After landing, you’ll follow a short trail inland that will lead you to a tranquil, brackish lagoon. Here, you’ll focus your eyes on spotting graceful Greater Flamingos, often found wading and feeding in the shallow water, alongside other birds like White-cheeked Pintails.

The main hike will take you along a trail that ascends to the higher part of the islet. You will climb toward the lookout point, where the path will pass through a picturesque Palo Santo forest, known for its distinct aroma. From this elevated position, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the red bay, the surrounding mangroves, and the nearby islets, offering a postcard-perfect view.

Next, you will take an exhilarating snorkeling trip just off the coast. The waters here are excellent for marine life. You will swim alongside playful sea lions, colorful reef fish, and may even see juvenile sharks and stingrays. This vibrant morning will provide a perfect blend of unique, Mars-like landscapes and rich underwater biodiversity.

PM      Bartolome Island 

In the afternoon you will explore straight to Bartolome Island, home to the famous Pinnacle Rock and the archipelago's most photographed landscape. After a dry landing, you will ascend a wooden boardwalk trail to the island's summit. The hike will reward you with a breathtaking panoramic view, showcasing the island’s stark volcanic origins, the unique formation of Pinnacle Rock, and the crescent-shaped beaches below. This is arguably the most recognizable landscape you will see in the Galapagos!

Following the hike, you will embark on an exhilarating snorkeling session around Pinnacle Rock. The waters here are cool and clear, offering pristine views. You will search for the endemic Galapagos Penguins, often seen zipping through the water or resting on the rocks. You will also swim alongside playful sea lions and may encounter large sea turtles, making this a perfect finale to your day of exploration.

Day 3 - Saturday - South Plaza Island / Santa Fe Island

AM      South Plaza Island

You will spend the morning exploring South Plaza Island, a small but incredibly vibrant islet formed by uplifted lava. As you arrive, you'll be greeted by huge colonies of sea lions, whose playful antics will accompany your entire visit.

You will follow a striking trail that winds through a brilliant landscape dominated by resilient Sesuvium plants, which change from green to vibrant orange and red depending on the season, offering a stunning color contrast against the turquoise ocean. Crucially, this island is home to one of the largest populations of Galapagos Land Iguanas; you will observe these remarkable reptiles sharing their territory with the sea lions and the endemic Prickly Pear Cactus forest. Along the dramatic cliffs, you'll spot Swallow-tailed Gulls and          Red-billed Tropicbirds soaring, providing a magnificent final wildlife spectacle before you conclude your morning.

PM      Sante Fe Island

In the afternoon, you will explore Santa Fe Island, a beautiful and geologically ancient island known for its high level of endemism. After a wet landing in the picturesque Barrington Bay, you will embark on a fascinating hike through the island's unique landscape. You will walk through a giant Opuntia cactus forest (the largest species in the archipelago), where you must watch for the main attraction: the Santa Fe Land Iguana, a distinct subspecies found nowhere else on Earth!

Following your terrestrial exploration, the turquoise waters of the bay will invite you for an incredible snorkeling experience. You will jump into the water and immediately find yourself swimming among large, playful colonies of sea lions, who are the main draw here. You will also search for rays, schools of tropical fish, and possibly sea turtles or white-tipped reef sharks in the clear, sheltered waters, offering a perfect conclusion to your day.

Day 4 - Sunday - San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point / Witch Hill  

AM      San Cristobal Island: Pitt Point

Your exploration will continue at Pitt Point, located on the eastern tip of San Cristobal Island. This dramatic site, comprised of volcanic tuff substrate, is one of the places in the entire Galapagos Archipelago where you can observe three different species of Boobies nesting simultaneously: the Blue-footed, the Red-footed, and the Nazca Booby!

After a wet landing, you will embark on a demanding but rewarding trail that winds up the cliff face, offering spectacular geological views and allowing you to witness these incredible birds in action. You will also spot both Magnificent and Great Frigatebirds soaring overhead.

Following your hike, you will cool off with a fantastic snorkeling session off the coast, where you'll find yourself swimming among playful sea lions, schools of reef fish, and possibly graceful sea turtles.

PM      San Cristobal Island: Witch Hill

Your afternoon will deliver pure Galapagos bliss at Witch Hill. Following a short wet landing, you’ll find yourself walking along a breathtaking stretch of white coral sand beach. The hill itself is the eroded peak of a tuff cone, providing dramatic coastal views. You will take a relaxing walk to a nearby lagoon, a habitat rich with birdlife, including Brown Pelicans and the occasional Blue-footed Booby.

The clear waters here are perfect for immersion! You can choose to simply relax and soak up the unique scenery, or you can grab your snorkel gear and jump into the turquoise ocean. You will swim alongside playful sea lions, schools of colorful reef fish, and possibly the endemic marine iguanas swimming and feeding underwater, making this a relaxing yet exhilarating conclusion to your day.

Day 5 - Monday - San Cristobal Island: Lobos Island / Airport

AM      San Cristobal Island: Lobos Island and Airport

In the morning you will go to Lobos Island (Sea Lion Island), a small, sheltered islet that guarantees extraordinary close-up wildlife encounters—a perfect farewell to the archipelago. After a short dry landing, you will embark on a gentle, final walk along a    well-defined trail. You will observe a small colony of Blue-footed Boobies nesting, along with several Frigatebirds soaring above. The main attraction, however, is the high concentration of sea lions; you will witness pups nursing and large males competing for territory, all resting right beside the path.

This peaceful final excursion will give you one last, intimate chance to capture the essence of Galapagos wildlife before you return to the yacht to prepare for your transfer back to the mainland. 

HERMES GALAPAGOS MEGA CATAMARAN 

Itinerary C

4 Day/3 Night (Monday – Thursday)

Day 1 - Monday - San Cristobal Island: Airport / Interpretation Center - Tijeretas Hill

Upon arrival at San Cristóbal Island Airport (SCY), you will be greeted by your naturalist guide. Immediately, you will proceed with the transfer to the Puerto Baquerizo Moreno pier, where you will board the yacht.

PM      San Cristobal Island: Interpretation Center

In the afternoon you will dive into the rich history of the Archipelago with a visit to the San Cristobal Interpretation Center. Here, you'll walk through the volcanic and natural history exhibits, gaining crucial insight into the islands' delicate ecosystem before you explore them firsthand.

This is where you will truly understand the origins and conservation efforts of Galapagos!

PM      San Cristobal Island: Tijeretas Hill

Later, you’ll hike up to Tijeretas Hill, a site offering spectacular panoramic views of the coast, the famous Kicker Rock, and the ship anchorage below. This spot will immerse you in wildlife, too: you’ll witness the iconic frigatebirds soaring and nesting—a truly mesmerizing sight. Below the hill, you’ll find a quiet cove where you can take a refreshing swim alongside playful sea lions and colorful fish, rounding out a perfect day of exploration.

Day 2 -Tuesday - Española Island: Gardner Bay / Suarez Point

AM      Española Island: Gardner Bay 

Your morning will begin with a spectacular dry landing on Gardner Bay, located on Española Island. This location will greet you with a breathtaking, long stretch of pristine white beach, composed entirely of pulverized coral. Here, you'll have an extended opportunity to walk and relax, sharing the shore with massive, playful colonies of sea lions. You will witness their social dynamics firsthand, with pups approaching you out of curiosity—an unforgettable welcome!

Following your beach exploration, the calm, crystalline waters will invite you for a refreshing dip. You can take a delightful swim or snorkel right off the beach. As you explore the shallow bay, you will discover the colorful marine life and may even see groups of sharks resting on the sandy bottom. This ideal morning setting perfectly balances relaxation with unique wildlife interaction.

PM      Española Island: Suarez Point

In the afternoon you will enjoy a fascinating visit to Suarez Point, the wildlife epicenter of Española Island. After a smooth dry landing, you will embark on an extensive two-mile  (3.2 km) circular trail that weaves along spectacular lava cliffs. Along this incredible route, you will observe the worldwide known "Christmas Iguanas”, the largest marine iguanas in the world—uniquely marked with striking red and green colors—before reaching the main nesting area.

Here, you will be thrilled to see hundreds of Nazca Boobies and the bright feet of the  Blue-footed Boobies performing their signature dance. If you visit the Galapagos Islands, you will witness the impressive Waved Albatrosses, performing their curious courtship rituals just meters away from you.

The journey ends at the blowhole, where high tides will send water spraying dramatically into the air—a truly fitting finale!

Day 3 - Wednesday - Floreana Island: Cormorant Point /  Post Office Bay

AM      Floreana Island: Cormorant Point

Your morning adventure will start with an exciting wet landing at Cormorant Point on Floreana Island. Prepare to be amazed by the geological contrast: you will first encounter a striking green-sand beach, its color derived from microscopic olivine crystals. After a short walk, you will transition to the famous "Flour Sand Beach," a pristine white stretch composed of finely ground coral, which serves as a vital nesting ground for Pacific Green Sea Turtles.

You will follow a well-defined trail inland that leads to a large, brackish lagoon. There, you will focus your attention on finding the majestic Greater Flamingos, which often congregate in large numbers, feeding in the shallow waters alongside other wading birds like        White-cheeked Pintails and Black-necked Stilts.

Finally, after absorbing the unique terrestrial views, you will gear up for a refreshing snorkeling experience just off the shore, where you will witness the playful sea lions and may even glide beside a calm sea turtle in its natural element.

PM      Floreana Island: Post Office Bay

Your afternoon will take you back in time as you visit the legendary Post Office Bay on Floreana Island. Following a simple wet landing, you’ll find the famous wooden barrel that has served as an unofficial postal service since the 18th century, used initially by whalers and pirates. You will participate in this unique maritime tradition: you’ll search through the postcards left by previous visitors for any mail addressed near your home. If you find one, you will become the postal carrier, delivering it by hand!

Next, you will take a delightful panga (dinghy) ride along the coast, exploring the historical anchoring spot and observing the coastal wildlife, including the playful sea lions and marine birds. This site offers a perfect blend of unique human history and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable and interactive afternoon.

Day 4 - Wednesday - Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Station / Baltra Airport

AM      Santa Cruz Island: Charles Darwin Station

Your final morning will be dedicated to conservation and science with a visit to Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. This stop will offer you a crucial, inspiring perspective on the efforts to save the archipelago's unique ecosystems before you depart.

You will walk through the breeding and rearing facilities and you will witness the dedicated work being done to rescue and reintroduce endangered species, most notably the Galapagos Giant Tortoises. You will see tortoises of various sizes and ages in the captive breeding program, from small hatchlings to majestic adults. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the conservation challenges and the success stories that ensure the future of the islands' unique inhabitants. This final, thoughtful encounter will serve as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance of life in Galapagos.

HERMES GALAPAGOS MEGA CATAMARAN

Itinerary D

4 Day/3 Night (Thursday – Sunday )

Day 1 - Thursday - Baltra Airport / Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

Upon your arrival at the Baltra airport, a Hermes’ guide will welcome you to the Galapagos Islands and will escort you to the Seymour dock. There, you will board the superyacht and will enjoy a delicious lunch.

PM      Santa Cruz Island: Highlands

Your first afternoon will lead you from the coast to the lush, misty environment of the Santa Cruz Highlands. This journey will immediately showcase the dramatic climate change as you ascend into the wet zone. You will visit a private reserve where you will have an incredibly intimate and humbling encounter with the majestic Galapagos Giant Tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. You will witness these iconic animals grazing, resting, and bathing in the mud—it’s truly a sight reserved for the Galapagos.

Beyond the tortoises, you will explore the volcanic history of the island. You will walk inside impressive lava tunnels—subterranean passages formed by ancient molten rock—and you will observe deep, large craters created by the collapse of volcanic chambers. This visit will provide a perfect blend of unique geology and the iconic wildlife that defines the islands.This is where you will truly understand the origins and conservation efforts of Galapagos!

Day 2 - Friday - Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill / Chinese Hat

AM      Santa Cruz Island: Dragon Hill 

Your morning will take you to Dragon Hill, a site named for its once-endangered population of Galapagos Land Iguanas. After a dry landing, you will embark on a fascinating hike through various coastal zones. You will walk past a brackish lagoon where you'll search for elegant Greater Flamingos and other wading birds.

As you ascend the trail toward the dry forest, you will witness a monumental conservation success: you’ll spot the colorful, reintroduced land iguanas that roam freely here, having been brought back from the brink of extinction. You will also be rewarded with breathtaking views of the anchorage and the surrounding islands from the higher points of the hill. This stop will provide an inspiring look at the recovery of Santa Cruz's unique terrestrial species.

PM      Chinese Hat

Your afternoon will deliver a memorable visit to the unique Chinese Hat Islet, a small cone named for its distinct shape. After a wet landing, you will embark on a short, but fascinating circular trail. You will witness colonies of marine iguanas that bask on the dark, rugged lava flow, and you'll search for the endemic Galapagos penguins often seen resting on the rocks or zipping through the water nearby.

The main attraction will be the snorkeling experience in the crystal-clear turquoise channel between the islet and Santiago Island. You will jump into the water and immediately find yourself swimming alongside playful sea lions, tropical fish, and white-tipped reef sharks. The sheer beauty of the submerged volcanic landscape, combined with the density of marine life, will make this snorkeling session a spectacular afternoon highlight.

Day 3 - Saturday - Genovesa Island: Prince Philip’s Steps / Darwin Bay

AM      Genovesa Island: Prince Philip’s Steps

You will spend the morning exploring the dramatic volcanic landscape of Genovesa Island at Prince Philip's Steps. After scaling a steep, rocky path carved into the cliff face, you will reach a flat plateau where you’ll enter the heart of one of the largest nesting colonies in the Galápagos.

You will follow a well-maintained circular trail that weaves through a dense colony of    Red-footed Boobies, famous for nesting in the low Palo Santo trees. You will also observe thousands of Nazca Boobies and Storm Petrels, performing astonishing aerial maneuvers over the lava fields. This island is truly a bird watcher's paradise! After the hike, you will take a thrilling dinghy ride along the cliffs of the Caldera, spotting marine life and ensuring a comprehensive view of this bird sanctuary.

The snorkeling will take place in the deep waters alongside the Genovesa cliffs. You will glide into a unique underwater landscape where you will look for Eagle Rays, Sharks and large schools of pelagic fish. The ultimate spectacle will be watching the Boobies (Red-footed and Nazca) plunge from the sky at high speed, offering an incredible wildlife interaction you will never forget.

PM      Genovesa Island: Darwin Bay

Your afternoon will continue on Genovesa Island with a visit to the crescent-shaped Darwin Bay. After a wet landing on the beautiful coral sand beach, you will embark on a fascinating coastal trail. It will immerse you in a massive nesting colony of seabirds. You will walk just meters away from Red-footed Boobies and Nazca Boobies—the sheer quantity of nesting activity is astounding! You’ll also observe Swallow-tailed Gulls, the only nocturnal gull in the world, and various species of Darwin's Finches.

Following your terrestrial exploration, you will have the chance for a relaxing swim or snorkel in the calm, sheltered waters of the bay's natural harbor. You will find yourself swimming alongside playful sea lions and looking for colorful reef fish, offering a peaceful and beautiful marine conclusion to your day on this bird-watcher's paradise.

Day 4 - Sunday - Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove / Baltra Airport

AM      Santa Cruz Island: Black Turtle Cove

Your final morning will offer a uniquely peaceful and memorable conclusion as you explore the mangroves of Black Turtle Cove. This site is a secluded inlet accessed only by panga (dinghy), allowing for a silent, non-invasive observation of marine nursery life. You will glide through the mangroves, where you will spot juvenile Whitetip Reef Sharks, rays, and young sea turtles finding refuge in the calm, shallow waters.

Following this intimate encounter with the Galapagos marine ecosystem, you will return to the yacht. It will navigate to North Seymour Pier where you take the van to the airport.