isabela ii

Classic yacht character with modern expedition comfort.
Sail the Galapagos aboard Isabela II, a time-tested expedition yacht where expert naturalists, smooth Zodiac operations, and generous deck space create a relaxed, discovery-first rhythm.

$4.514

USD

starting at

I

5 -7

DAYS

Class: First Class

Type: Expeditions Ship

Capacity (guests): 40

Highlights:

• Ample social spaces & Observation deck

• Carefully designed itineraries

• Great guiding staff

• Doctor on board

Isabela II is for travelers who love the feel of a classic yacht: polished wood, open decks, and crew who remember names, paired with the practicality of a modern expedition.

You will roam spacious exterior walkways and observation points on board, then step ashore in small naturalist-led groups to meet blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and sea turtles at an unhurried pace. Add crisp daily briefings, a galley that leans fresh and local, and logistics that just flow, and you get a Galapagos expedition cruise that is welcoming, calm, and wonderfully focused on time with wildlife.

overview

20 cabins / 40 guests, all with private bathrooms and individual A/C. Mix of categories for couples, solos, and small families: Cabins on Isabela II pair large windows with practical storage and calm finishes; select setups suit friends or families who want to stay near each other. Public areas feel welcoming: a proper briefing lounge for talks, a convivial dining room that never feels crowded, and broad exterior decks that invite you out whenever wildlife appears.

• Flexible arrangements for couples, friends, and families

• Warm, timeless interiors with upgraded expedition amenities

• Choice of activity levels; great deck vantage points; easy snorkeling access.

suites & layout

Owner's Cabin

Classic Cabin

Standard Cabin

life on board

Mornings begin with a clear game plan from the naturalist team, where you will land, the wildlife to watch for, and options for every energy level. A short Zodiac hop later, you are tracing lava textures or walking a pale-sand cove with time for questions and photographs. When the bays warm, slip into water chosen for comfort and visibility, confidence-building snorkeling with sea lions and reef fish, or opt for a relaxed coastal Zodiac ride if you prefer to stay dry.

Back on Isabela II, hand off your gear, grab a light Ecuadorian bite, and find a favorite perch on deck to scan for seabirds. Evenings bring friendly briefings, Ecuadorian coastal dinners, and a calm, starlit sky at the equator.

itineraries & dates

Isabela II rotates 4- and 6-night routes (easy to combine for extended coverage) across the Western, Northern, and Southeastern regions.

JAN    FEB    MAR    APR    MAY    JUN

JUL    AUG    SEP     OCT    NOV    DEC

Hot Tub

Sundeck

Fitness Room

Gift Shop

Guided hikes & coastal rides with certified naturalist guides.

Snorkel gear (mask, fins; wetsuits available).

Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for calm-water exploring.

Glass-bottom boat, perfect for non-snorkelers and family members who want a dry, immersive view of reefs and rays.

services & experiences

Pack light: Life on Yacht Isabela II is casual and relaxed—think breathable clothes, a light windbreaker, and reef-safe sunscreen. You would not need formal wear; comfort is key when exploring the Galapagos Islands by small-ship cruise.

Stay curious, and dry if you wish: Every landing offers options: hike with your naturalist guide, snorkel among sea lions, or watch from the glass-bottom boat if you prefer to keep your feet dry. The ship’s flexible style ensures everyone can enjoy wildlife encounters at their own pace.

Connected where it counts: Thanks to Starlink Wi-Fi, you can share your Galapagos moments or check in back home. Coverage may vary between islands, but the magic of disconnecting is part of the journey.

Wellness on board: A licensed medical officer sails with every departure, so you are never far from professional care. Combined with small-group excursions and eco-safe operations, Yacht Isabela II offers peace of mind from start to finish.

Travel responsibly: This sustainable Galapagos cruise minimizes its footprint through efficient engines, water treatment systems, and reusable materials. Every detail supports the islands’ long-term protection, so your adventure helps preserve what you came to see.

good to know

faqs

Is Yacht Isabela II a true small-ship Galapagos cruise?
Yes, 40 guests / 20 cabins. That means smaller excursion groups with naturalist guides, faster Zodiac operations, and more unhurried wildlife time compared to larger vessels.

I am not a strong swimmer, will I still enjoy it?
Absolutely. Isabela II offers a glass-bottom boat for reef viewing without getting wet, plus easy coastal rides and nature walks led by certified naturalist guides. Snorkelers can go deep; non-snorkelers stay dry and happy.

Can I stay connected during my Galapagos cruise?
Yes, Starlink Wi-Fi is available on board (signal varies by location). It is perfect for quick check-ins and sharing highlights, while still letting you be present with the wildlife.

What’s the vibe on board, formal or relaxed?
Relaxed expedition style. Pack breathable layers, a light windbreaker, and reef-safe sunscreen. Evenings are casual at the Sky Bar or lounge; the focus is comfort and discovery, not dress code.

Is there a doctor onboard?
Yes. A licensed medical officer sails on every departure, with an onboard infirmary, extra peace of mind for families, first-timers, and seniors on a small-ship Galapagos adventure.

• International flights to/from Ecuador.

• Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee and Transit Control Card (TCT), mandatory for all visitors; amounts subject to change.

• Domestic Ecuador–Galapagos flights unless specifically included in your package.

• Beverages & specialty cocktails (if not part of your fare).

• Travel insurance and any medical expenses.

• Gratuities to crew/guides.

• Personal gear beyond standard loaners (e.g., prescription masks, specialty fins, underwater cameras).

• Carbon neutral operational fee

• All meals during the cruise

• Accommodation in selected cabin

• Bilingual Naturalist guides

• Island excursions and activities

• Snorkeling gear (fee may apply)

• Kayaks, paddleboards, glass-bottom boat

• Onboard medical officer

inclusions

not included

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