evolution

Sail the Galapagos aboard Evolution, a classic 32-guest yacht that blends small-ship luxury with expedition access, two naturalist guides, intimate landings, and effortless snorkeling with sea lions and turtles.

$9.500

USD

starting at

I

DAYS

8 - 15

Highlights:

• Spacious decks

• Family-friendly

• Classic design

Class: Luxury

Type: Expedition Yacht

Capacity (guests): 32

With the charm of a classic yacht and the ease of a boutique hotel, Evolution delivers a truly intimate small-ship Galapagos luxury cruise. The sweet spot, just 32 guests, means names remembered, smooth Zodiac logistics, and time to linger where it matters.

Guided by two Galapagos National Park–licensed naturalists, outings stay small and personal for front-row encounters with blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and sea turtles, without the crowds.

A thoughtful refit preserves her vintage character while upgrading comfort, safety, and sustainability, creating a yacht that feels storied yet utterly modern.

If you are seeking authentic Galapagos expedition access with refined service, easy snorkeling with sea lions, relaxed deck time, and unhurried sunsets, Evolution is the heritage-style yacht that makes the islands feel close, effortless, and unforgettable.

overview

A thoughtful spread of 16 cabins, from a Master Suite and upper-deck suites to comfortable twins, keeps sea views close and movement easy between lounges and the sun deck. Private bathrooms, efficient storage, and classic details define the look; the deck plan makes Zodiac access quick and photography-friendly.

• Intimate groups with two guides on board

• Doctor aboard on selected departures

• Sun deck lounging

• Al fresco dining

suites & layout

Master Suite

Suite Albatross Deck

Suite Cormorant Deck

life on board

Begin with sunrise coffee as lava silhouettes glow on the horizon. After a short Zodiac hop, your small group steps ashore for unhurried walks and photography. When the bays warm, slip into calm water for effortless snorkeling with sea lions and reef fish; afternoons might add kayaking or a coastal Zodiac tour.

Back aboard Evolution, lunch is al-fresco, the sun deck invites a siesta, and your guides gather you for friendly evening briefings before a dinner celebrating Ecuadorian coastal flavors, and stargazing under equatorial skies on a truly small-ship Galapagos cruise.

itineraries & dates

Choose 8 day Galapagos cruise itineraries that rotate across the archipelago, or combine two 8-day routes for a 15-day grand voyage.

• Eastern & Central: white-sand bays, giant tortoises, classic snorkeling near Española, San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz.

• Western & Northern: dramatic volcanic coasts of Isabela & Fernandina, cooler waters with penguins and flightless cormorants.

JAN    FEB    MAR    APR    MAY    JUN

JUL    AUG    SEP     OCT    NOV    DEC

Library

Al Fresco Bar

Jacuzzi

Sun deck lounge

• Guiding & Education: Two Park-licensed naturalists; daily briefings & lectures

• Daily Excursions: Zodiacs, guided hikes, snorkeling (wetsuits/gear typically provided); kayaking where permitted

• Dining: Chef-prepared menus with Ecuadorian coastal influence; dietary needs with notice

• Wellness & Safety: Sun deck, shaded lounges; lauded safety record; doctor aboard on select sailings

• Photography: Small groups + flexible pacing for golden-hour shots

services & experiences

• Small-Ship with 32 guests and two guides, Evolution keeps groups intimate and landings smooth, great for photography and family pacing.

• Wet & Dry Landings: Expect both; pack strap-on sandals or water shoes and bring a dry bag for cameras.

• Snorkel Made Easy: Wetsuits & snorkel sets typically provided; bring your own mask if you want a perfect fit.

• Doctor Onboard Advantage: Evolution is noted as the smallest ship in Galapagos to staff a doctor, a rare amenity on vessels this size.

• Connectivity & Detox: Internet can be limited/intermittent at sea, download playlists/books beforehand and enjoy Milky Way nights from the sun deck.

good to know

faqs

How far in advance should I book Evolution?
Prime weeks on a 32-guest Galapagos luxury yacht can sell out 9–12 months ahead (holidays even earlier). If you want specific cabins, or are considering a family trip, place a courtesy hold as soon as you have tentative dates.

I am new to snorkeling, will I still enjoy the cruise?
Absolutely. Guides choose calm sites and provide snorkel gear & wetsuits (sizes vary). Entries from Zodiacs are simple, and there are alternatives like coastal Zodiac tours if you prefer to stay dry. Many first-timers try snorkeling with sea lions here, it is welcoming by design.

Which itinerary is best, eastern/central or western/northern?
It depends on your Galapagos wildlife wish-list.

• Eastern/Central: classic sites, white-sand bays, blue-footed boobies, standout snorkeling.

• Western/Northern (Isabela/Fernandina): dramatic lava shores, cooler water, prolific marine life (including penguins).
  Tell us your dates and priorities; we’ll match the route that fits you best.

• Flights, accommodations, meals, excursions and transfers other than those included in the itinerary

• International air tickets to either Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador

• Gratuities to guides, crew and staff

• Extra expenses (communication, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)

• Trip cancellation, health and medical evacuation insurance

• Premium brands of wines, beer or spirits

• Galapagos National Park entrance fee ($200 USD adults / $100 USD children) *

• Galapagos Transit Control Card ($20 USD per person) *

• Internet / Wi-Fi Connection throughout the cruise

• Daily served meals or buffet offering a wide choice of dishes

• Naturalist guides & activities throughout the cruise

• All transfers (with rest of group) while in Galapagos

• Select wines, local beer, cocktails, spirits, soft drinks, juice, coffee, hot chocolate, water and tea are included throughout the cruise

• Lectures and entertainment onboard

• Snorkeling equipment (masks, snorkels & fins) and wetsuits (3mm long wetsuit)

• Kayaks, Paddle Boards & Equipment

inclusions

not included

Plan with Galapagos Inspīrāre, specialists in tailor-made Galapagos journeys with local insight and curated luxury partners.