Welcome Aboard
One Step Ahead
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“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” “I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term Natural Selection.” “Man tends to increase at a greater rate than his means of subsistence.” “We must, however, acknowledge as it seems to me, that a man with all his noble qualities...still bears in his bodily frame the indelible stamp of his lowly origin.” Charles Darwin Naturalist (1809 - 1882)
contents
CORMORANT CATAMARAN WELCOME ABOARD CRUISE ITINERARIES
5 6
8-day Cruise “A”
6
8-day Cruise “B”
8 10
5-day Cruise 4-day Cruise
12
15-day Cruise
14
GALAPAGOS VISITOR SITES
16
Baltra
16
Bachas Beach
16
Sierra Negra Volcano
24
Crew Areas
43
Tortoise Breeding Center
24
Smoking
43
Wetlands
24
Moreno Point
25
Elizabeth Bay
25
Meals
44
Mangle Point
26
Water
44
26
Ice
44
Espinosa Point
27
Bar
44
Vicente Roca Point
27
Egas Port
28
Espumilla Beach
28
Buccaneer Cove
28
Darwin Bay
29
El Barranco
29
North Seymour
30
Urbina Bay
Pinnacle Rock
17
Sullivan Bay
17
South Plaza
18
Santa Fe
18
Witch Hill
19
Pitt Point
19
National Park Rules
Isla Lobos
20
Kicker Rock
NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH
31
LIVING ABOARD INFORMATION
39
ISLAND VISITS
40
DINING & REFRESHMENTS
CABINS
44
45
Air-Conditioning
45
Electrical Current
45
Housekeeping
45
Towels
45
Shower
45
Caring for the Environment
45
ON BOARD FACILITIES
46
Lounge
46
Bulletin Board
46
40
Telephone
46
Visitor Sites
40
Payments On Board
46
20
What to Take on Land
40
Taxes and Service Charges
46
Suarez Point
21
Landings
41
Check-Out / Check-In
46
Gardner Bay
21
Snorkeling & Wetsuits
41
Personal Items
46
Snorkeling & Swimming
41
Guest Book
46
Briefings
42
Cruise Survey
47
Wake up Call
42
Tipping / Gratuities
47
Cormorant Point
22
Champion Islet
22
Post Office Bay
22
Baroness View Point
22
HEALTH & SAFETY
43
Charles Darwin Station
23
Safety On Board
43
Twin Craters
23
Night Time Assistance
43
Tintoreras
24
Keys
43
4 One Step Ahead
ABOUT THE CORMORANT
48
Deck Plans
48
Technical Specifications
49
Your Crew
50
WELCOME ABOARD CORMORANT CATAMARAN
Dear Guest, Welcome aboard! On behalf of the Cormorant Motor Catamaran, we would like to welcome you to the Galapagos Islands, a place unlike anywhere else on Earth. We are honored to share this experience with you. The guide, captain and crew are highly-trained professionals who will do anything in their power to ensure that you have the best experience possible while on board. Please do not hesitate to ask if there is anything we can do to enhance your trip. Enclosed in this booklet you will find all the necessary information about your cruise and the Galapagos National Park. We sincerely hope this will be a memorable trip for you and that you enjoy the Galapagos and your time aboard the Cormorant Catamaran. Thank you for choosing us! Angel VillacĂs President
M/C Cormorant
5 One Step Ahead
The Galapagos Islands 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS ITINERARY “A” Saturday to Saturday Mejia Point Black Beach
El Barranco Darwin Bay
Marchena
Genovesa
(Bindloe)
Ecuador 790 m Vicente Roca Point
(Tower)
Equator 0º 0’ 0” Wolf 1.707 m
Espinosa Point Tagus Cove
Santiago
(San Salvador / James)
Espumilla Beach James Bay Egas Port Buccaneer Cove
Darwin 1.330 m
Cerro Pelado 507 m
La Cumbre 1.476 m Urbina Bay
(Narborough)
Mosquera Baltra
Rabida
Alcedo 1.130 m
Mangle Point
Fernandina
Bartholomew North Seymour
Sullivan Bay
(Jervis)
Bachas Beach
San Cristobal
South Plaza
Elizabeth Bay
(Chatham)
Twin Craters
Moreno Point
Highlands
Sierra Negra 1.124 m
Tortoise Breeding Station
Pitt Point Witch Hill Kicker Rock
Puerto I. Ayora Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)
Wall of Tears
Santa Fe (Barrington)
Isla Lobos Cerro Colorado El Junco Puerto B. Moreno La Galapaguera Interpretation Center
Puerto Villamil
Isabela
(Albemarle)
Cormorant Point Post Office Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN 0
(km)
100
0
(mi)
60
Floreana
(Charles)
Champion Islet Baroness Viewing Point
Española (Hood) Suarez Point
Gardner Bay Osborn Islet
8-day Galapagos cruise “a” CORMORANT CATAMARAN
SATURDAY
BACHAS BEACH
ARRIVE BALTRA
Santa Cruz Island
Baltra Island
WEDNESDAY
SUNDAY
PINNACLE ROCK Bartholomew Island
MONDAY
TUESDAY
SULLIVAN BAY
SOUTH PLAZA
SANTA FE
WITCH HILL
PITT POINT
Santiago Island
South Plaza Island
Santa Fe Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
ISLA LOBOS
KICKER ROCK
SUAREZ POINT
GARDNER BAY / OSBORN ISLET
CORMORANT POINT & CHAMPION ISLET
& BARONESS VIEW POINT
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
Española Island
Española Island
Floreana Island
Floreana Island
POST OFFICE BAY
SATURDAY
C. DARWIN STATION
TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Santa Cruz Island
Baltra Island
7 One Step Ahead
The Galapagos Islands 8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS ITINERARY “B” Saturday to Saturday Mejia Point Black Beach
El Barranco Darwin Bay
Marchena
Genovesa
(Bindloe)
Ecuador 790 m Vicente Roca Point
(Tower)
Equator 0º 0’ 0” Wolf 1.707 m
Espinosa Point Tagus Cove
Santiago
(San Salvador / James)
Espumilla Beach James Bay Egas Port Buccaneer Cove
Darwin 1.330 m
Cerro Pelado 507 m
La Cumbre 1.476 m Urbina Bay
(Narborough)
Mosquera Baltra
Rabida
Alcedo 1.130 m
Mangle Point
Fernandina
Bartholomew North Seymour
Sullivan Bay
(Jervis)
Bachas Beach
San Cristobal
South Plaza
Elizabeth Bay
(Chatham)
Twin Craters
Moreno Point
Highlands
Sierra Negra 1.124 m
Tortoise Breeding Station
Pitt Point Witch Hill Kicker Rock
Puerto I. Ayora Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)
Wall of Tears
Santa Fe (Barrington)
Isla Lobos Cerro Colorado El Junco Puerto B. Moreno La Galapaguera Interpretation Center
Puerto Villamil
Isabela
(Albemarle)
Cormorant Point Post Office Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN 0
(km)
100
0
(mi)
60
Floreana
(Charles)
Champion Islet Baroness Viewing Point
Española (Hood) Suarez Point
Gardner Bay Osborn Islet
8-day Galapagos cruise “B” CORMORANT CATAMARAN
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
ARRIVE BALTRA
TWIN CRATERS or EL CHATO
TINTORERAS or SIERRA NEGRA V.
TORTOISE B. STATION & WETLANDS
MORENO POINT
ELIZABETH BAY
MANGLE POINT
URBINA BAY
Baltra Island
Santa Cruz Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
Fernandina Island
Isabela Island
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
ESPINOSA POINT
VICENTE ROCA POINT
EGAS PORT
BUCCANEER COVE / ESPUMILLA BEACH
EL BARRANCO
DARWIN BAY
NORTH SEYMOUR
TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Fernandina Island
Isabela Island
Santiago Island
Santiago Island
Genovesa Island
Genovesa Island
North Seymour Island
Baltra Island
9 One Step Ahead
The Galapagos Islands 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS ITINERARY Saturday to Wednesday Mejia Point Black Beach
El Barranco Darwin Bay
Marchena
Genovesa
(Bindloe)
Ecuador 790 m Vicente Roca Point
(Tower)
Equator 0º 0’ 0” Wolf 1.707 m
Espinosa Point Tagus Cove
Santiago
(San Salvador / James)
Espumilla Beach James Bay Egas Port Buccaneer Cove
Darwin 1.330 m
Cerro Pelado 507 m
La Cumbre 1.476 m Urbina Bay
(Narborough)
Mosquera Baltra
Rabida
Alcedo 1.130 m
Mangle Point
Fernandina
Bartholomew North Seymour
Sullivan Bay
(Jervis)
Bachas Beach
San Cristobal
South Plaza
Elizabeth Bay
(Chatham)
Twin Craters
Moreno Point
Highlands
Sierra Negra 1.124 m
Tortoise Breeding Station
Pitt Point Witch Hill Kicker Rock
Puerto I. Ayora Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)
Wall of Tears
Santa Fe (Barrington)
Isla Lobos Cerro Colorado El Junco Puerto B. Moreno La Galapaguera Interpretation Center
Puerto Villamil
Isabela
(Albemarle)
Cormorant Point Post Office Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN 0
(km)
100
0
(mi)
60
Floreana
(Charles)
Champion Islet Baroness Viewing Point
Española (Hood) Suarez Point
Gardner Bay Osborn Islet
5-day Galapagos cruise CORMORANT CATAMARAN
SATURDAY
ARRIVE BALTRA Baltra Island
BACHAS BEACH Santa Cruz Island
TUESDAY
SUNDAY
PINNACLE ROCK Bartholomew Island
MONDAY
SULLIVAN BAY
SOUTH PLAZA
SANTA FE
Santiago Island
South Plaza Island
Santa Fe Island
WEDNESDAY
WITCH HILL
PITT POINT
ISLA LOBOS
TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
11 One Step Ahead
The Galapagos Islands 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS ITINERARY Wednesday to Saturday Mejia Point Black Beach
El Barranco Darwin Bay
Marchena
Genovesa
(Bindloe)
Ecuador 790 m Vicente Roca Point
(Tower)
Equator 0º 0’ 0” Wolf 1.707 m
Espinosa Point Tagus Cove
Santiago
(San Salvador / James)
Espumilla Beach James Bay Egas Port Buccaneer Cove
Darwin 1.330 m
Cerro Pelado 507 m
La Cumbre 1.476 m Urbina Bay
(Narborough)
Mosquera Baltra
Rabida
Alcedo 1.130 m
Mangle Point
Fernandina
Bartholomew North Seymour
Sullivan Bay
(Jervis)
Bachas Beach
San Cristobal
South Plaza
Elizabeth Bay
(Chatham)
Twin Craters
Moreno Point
Highlands
Sierra Negra 1.124 m
Tortoise Breeding Station
Pitt Point Witch Hill Kicker Rock
Puerto I. Ayora Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)
Wall of Tears
Santa Fe (Barrington)
Isla Lobos Cerro Colorado El Junco Puerto B. Moreno La Galapaguera Interpretation Center
Puerto Villamil
Isabela
(Albemarle)
Cormorant Point Post Office Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN 0
(km)
100
0
(mi)
60
Floreana
(Charles)
Champion Islet Baroness Viewing Point
Española (Hood) Suarez Point
Gardner Bay Osborn Islet
4-day Galapagos cruise CORMORANT CATAMARAN
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
ARRIVE SAN CRISTOBAL
KICKER ROCK
SUAREZ POINT
GARDNER BAY / OSBORN ISLET
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
Espa単ola Island
Espa単ola Island
FRIDAY
CORMORANT POINT & CHAMPION ISLET
& BARONESS VIEW POINT
POST OFFICE BAY
Floreana Island
Floreana Island
SATURDAY
C. DARWIN STATION
TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Santa Cruz Island
Baltra Island
13 One Step Ahead
The Galapagos Islands 15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS ITINERARY Saturday to Saturday Mejia Point Black Beach
El Barranco Darwin Bay
Marchena
Genovesa
(Bindloe)
Ecuador 790 m Vicente Roca Point
(Tower)
Equator 0º 0’ 0” Wolf 1.707 m
Espinosa Point Tagus Cove
Santiago
(San Salvador / James)
Espumilla Beach James Bay Egas Port Buccaneer Cove
Darwin 1.330 m
Cerro Pelado 507 m
La Cumbre 1.476 m Urbina Bay
(Narborough)
Mosquera Baltra
Rabida
Alcedo 1.130 m
Mangle Point
Fernandina
Bartholomew North Seymour
Sullivan Bay
(Jervis)
Bachas Beach
San Cristobal
South Plaza
Elizabeth Bay
(Chatham)
Twin Craters
Moreno Point
Highlands
Sierra Negra 1.124 m
Tortoise Breeding Station
Pitt Point Witch Hill Kicker Rock
Puerto I. Ayora Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz (Indefatigable)
Wall of Tears
Santa Fe (Barrington)
Isla Lobos Cerro Colorado El Junco Puerto B. Moreno La Galapaguera Interpretation Center
Puerto Villamil
Isabela
(Albemarle)
Cormorant Point Post Office Bay
PACIFIC OCEAN 0
(km)
100
0
(mi)
60
Floreana
(Charles)
Champion Islet Baroness Viewing Point
Española (Hood) Suarez Point
Gardner Bay Osborn Islet
15-day Galapagos cruise CORMORANT CATAMARAN
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
ARRIVE BALTRA
BACHAS BEACH
PINNACLE ROCK
SULLIVAN BAY
SOUTH PLAZA
SANTA FE
WITCH HILL
PITT POINT
ISLA LOBOS
KICKER ROCK
Baltra Island
Santa Cruz Island
Bartholomew Island
Santiago Island
South Plaza Island
Santa Fe Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
SUAREZ POINT
GARDNER BAY / OSBORN ISLET
CORMORANT POINT & CHAMPION ISLET
POST OFFICE BAY & BARONESS VIEW POINT
C. DARWIN STATION
TWIN CRATERS or EL CHATO
TINTORERAS or SIERRA NEGRA V.
TORTOISE B. STATION & WETLANDS
MORENO POINT
ELIZABETH BAY
Espa単ola Island
Espa単ola Island
Floreana Island
Floreana Island
Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
Isabela Island
TUESDAY
MANGLE POINT Fernandina Island
URBINA BAY Isabela Island
WEDNESDAY
ESPINOSA POINT Fernandina Island
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
VICENTE ROCA POINT
EGAS PORT
BUCCANEER COVE / ESPUMILLA BEACH
EL BARRANCO
DARWIN BAY
NORTH SEYMOUR
TRANSFER TO THE AIRPORT
Isabela Island
Santiago Island
Santiago Island
Genovesa Island
Genovesa Island
North Seymour Island
Baltra Island
15 One Step Ahead
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Floreana
Santa Fé
Isabela
Española
Excursion Information
Floreana
BachasEspañola Beach
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS:
Baltra Island
Port for Ships Baltra Airport
Sally Lightfoot Crabs
Santa Cruz Island
Hermit Crabs
Military & Naval Base
SATURDAY MORNING Arrival. Baltra island is host to the Galapagos’ main airport. Passengers usually arrive to this airport because it has access to one of the main ports, Puerto Ayora, to board cruises. Passengers will land at the Baltra airport, go through immigration and will be met by their guide. This island was also a U.S. Military Base in World War II and visited by the famous Marilyn Monroe.
Starting point for itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 8-day Cruise “B”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
16 One Step Ahead
Black-necked Stilts Whimbrels Sea Turtles Activities: Swimming Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
SATURDAY AFTERNOON Located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz, Las Bachas is a swimming beach. One of the few remnants of the U.S. World War II, a floating pier, can be seen here. You may see flamingos, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hermit crabs, black necked stilts, and whimbrels. Sea turtles also nest off this beach.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Pinnacle Rock
Floreana
Santa Fé
Española
Excursion Information
Isabela
Sullivan Bay
HIGHLIGHTS:
Bartholomew Island
Panoramic View
Home of the famous Pinnacle Rock, Bartholomew Island consists of an extinct volcano with a variety of red, orange, black and even green volcanic formations. A trail of stairs leads to the summit of the volcano, boasting one of the best views of the islands. The beach is perfect for snorkeling and possible sightings of the Galapagos Penguin.
Penguins Pioneer Plants Lava Cactus Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling & hiking (1.2 mi / 2km) Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
Española
Excursion Information HIGHLIGHTS:
Santiago Island
Moonlike Landscape
SUNDAY MORNING
Floreana
Oystercatchers Great Blue Herons
SUNDAY AFTERNOON The Sullivan Bay lava field has a variety of interesting patterns made by the shapes and textures of trees that once existed there and hornitos caused when pockets of gas or water trapped under the lava exploded. On the shoreline black and white oystercatchers can be seen fishing for crabs and mollusks in the tide pools.
Lava Herons Lava Lizards Marine Iguanas Mockingbirds Activities: Walk of 1-1.5 hours Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Easy
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
17 One Step Ahead
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Floreana
Santa Fé
Española
Isabela
Excursion Information Land Iguanas
HIGHLIGHTS:
Santa Fe Island
Sea Lion Colony
MONDAY MORNING South Plaza is a small island with steep cliffs that were formed by rising lava and are now covered by Opuntia cacti. It is also home to one of the largest sea lion colonies as well as colorful yellow and red land iguanas. The most common plant is the Sesuvium. During the rainy season its color is a greenish to yellowish tone and in the dry season a bright red.
Audubon´s Shearwaters Swallow-tailed Gulls Nazca Boobies Amazing Landscape Activities: Hike (2 ½ km /1 ½ mi) Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
18 One Step Ahead
Española
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
South Plaza Island
Floreana
Land Iguanas Giant Tunas
MONDAY AFTERNOON Santa Fe (Barrington) is home to the small picturesque bay and anchorage site on the island’s northeast coast.
Activities: Hiking Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate
The bay has two visitor trails, one leading to a scenic viewpoint atop a cliff, and the other spanning from a small beach to a tall prickly pear cactus forest.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina Santa Cruz
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Pitt Point
Santa Fé
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Witch Hill Isabela
Floreana
Española
Isabela
Excursion Information Beautiful Rock Formations
HIGHLIGHTS:
San Cristobal Island
Sea Lions
TUESDAY MORNING Witch Hill is 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.
Shore Birds Finches and Mockingbirds Snorkeling: Tropical Fish, Anemones, Sponge Coral Activities: Hike, dinghy ride, snorkeling & kayaking Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
Española
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
San Cristobal Island
Floreana
Wonderful Landscape Sea Lion Colony
TUESDAY AFTERNOON Pitt Point, situated on the north-eastern tip of San Cristobal 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.
Blue-footed Booby Red-footed Booby Nazca Booby Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling, kayaking & hike (1 ½ mi / 2 ½ km) Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Moderate / Difficult
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 5-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
19 One Step Ahead
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Santa Fé
Kicker Rock Isabela
Isla Lobos
Floreana
Española
Isabela
Excursion Information Snorkeling with Sea Lions
HIGHLIGHTS:
San Cristobal Island
Frigatebirds
WEDNESDAY MORNING The name of Isla Lobos 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 fins”. This island also offers great snorkeling opportunities as well as the chance to see Bluefooted, Nazca Boobies and the spectacular Kicker Rock formation.
Blue-footed Boobies Dinghy Ride Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi / 1 km), dinghy ride and/or snorkeling. Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 15-day Cruise and 5-day cruise (end of cruise). Subject to change.
20 One Step Ahead
Española
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
San Cristobal Island
Floreana
Scenery Frigatebirds
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON 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.
Blue-footed Boobies Dinghy Ride Activities: Dinghy ride and/or snorkeling. Type of Landing: No Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 15-day Cruise and 4-day cruise (start of cruise). Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Suarez Point
Isabela
Floreana
Santa Fé
Española
Gardner Bay Isabela
Excursion Information Hood Mockingbird
HIGHLIGHTS:
Española Island
Nazca Boobies
THURSDAY MORNING Española is the southernmost island in the Galapagos. Suarez Point is great for spotting albatrosses, Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies. A beautiful site on the ocean front, the large Waved Albatrosses use the cliff as a launching pad. The famous attraction is the magnificent blowhole, spurting water high into the air. This site presents wonderful photographing opportunities.
Waved Albatross Red-billed Tropicbirds Lava Lizards Galapagos Hawk Blue-footed Boobies Blow Hole Amazing Landscape Activities: Hike (1.9 mi / 3 km) Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Difficult
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 4-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
Española
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
Española Island
Floreana
White-sandy Beach Sea Lions Colony
THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Gardner Bay is often listed as a favorite Galapagos visitor site. After landing, you can walk across a lovely white sandy beach amongst a busy sea lion colony or dive into the water to swim with sea lion pups. It is a good place for snorkeling or just relaxing at the beach. Gardner Bay is the breeding site of nearly all of the world´s 12,000 pairs of Waved Albatrosses.
Mockingbirds Snorkeling Kayaking Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride, kayaking, short hike of (0.6 miles / 1km) Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 4-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
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galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina Santa Cruz
Post Office Bay
Santa Fé
Cormorant Point Isabela
Champion
Floreana Island
Floreana
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Española
Isabela Baroness Viewpoint
Santa Fé
Floreana
Española
Excursion Information
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS:
Flamingoes
Floreana Island
Green-colored Beach
FRIDAY MORNING
Santa Cruz
Activities: Dinghy ride & hike (1.2 mi /2 km)
Barrel Post Office Nice Sandy Beach
FRIDAY AFTERNOON
Amazing Landscape Great view
Cormorant Point hosts Type of Landing: Wet Landing a large flamingo lagoon where other birds such as Difficulty: Easy the common stilts can be found. Champion is a small islet located very near Floreana.Snorkeling around Champion can be excellent as the rocks are covered with black coral bushes and yellow cup corals. Great chance to spot green turtles, salema and surgeonfish.
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. Baroness Viewpoint is a fantastic place to absorb the environment of the Galapagos and learn about its intriguing history.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 4-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A”, 4-day Cruise and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
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Mysterious story about the first inhabitants of the islands Activities: Short hike (less than 0.6 mi/1 km) & snorkeling Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Floreana
Pto. Ayora
Charles Darwin Station
Santa Cruz Island
Española
Isabela
The Charles Darwin Research Station is home to tortoises ranging from 3-inches (new hatchlings) to 4-feet long. Sub-species of tortoises interact with one another and many of the older tortoises are accustomed to humans. The babies are kept until they are about four years old and strong enough to survive on their own.
Floreana
Española
Excursion Information
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS:
Giant Tortoises
Santa Cruz Island
Activities: Walking Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Easy
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “A” (end of cruise), 4-day Cruise (end of cruise) and 15-day cruise. Subject to change.
Craters Scalesia Forest
Land Iguanas
SATURDAY MORNING
Santa Fé
Twin Craters
SATURDAY AFTERNOON Los Gemelos, or the Twin Craters, are located opposite each other on both sides of the road leading from Puerto Ayora to Baltra.
Scenic Views Activities: Short hiking Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate
The name is only figurative; they are not real craters, these formations were created by the collapse of surface material in underground fissures and chambers, giving way to a breathtaking view.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” (start of cruise) and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Excursion Information
Sierra Negra Volcano Española Floreana Tintoreras
HIGHLIGHTS:
Santa Fé
Isabela
Excursion Information
Floreana
Tortoise Breeding Española Station, Wetlands
HIGHLIGHTS:
Isabela Island
Basaltic Caldera Stunning Views
Two of the Five Sub-species of the Giant Tortoise
Finches
Giant Mangroves
SUNDAY MORNING
Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, walking Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate
The Sierra Negra Volcano boasts the largest basaltic caldera in Galapagos at 9 x 10km. The site offers impressive views and the opportunity to observe up to 7 species of finches. The Tintoreras Islet is home to a great variety of wildlife. Its turquoise, crystalline waters are inhabited by whitetipped reef sharks, Galapagos Penguins, marine turtles and sea lions.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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Activities: Hiking Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Easy
Isabela Island
SUNDAY AFTERNOON The Tortoise Breeding Station was created to protect animals in their first years of life from the threats of foreign species such as pigs and donkeys. The Wetlands consist of lagoons, swamps, and mangroves and are home to a variety of unique bird species such as Common Stilts, Whimbrels, White-Cheeked Pintails, and Gallinules.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Santa Fé
Elizabeth Bay Isabela
Excursion Information
Floreana
Española
Moreno Point
Isabela Island
Turtles White-tipped Reef Sharks Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike (1.2miles / 2km) Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate / Difficult
Española
Excursion Information Galapagos Mangrove Forest
Isabela Island
Sea Turtles
Gallinules Pintail Ducks
Floreana
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS: Flamingoes
Isabela
MONDAY MORNING Moreno Point is located near Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island. The plethora of birds seen during a dinghy ride along the striking rocky shores or a hike along a path through lava rock leading to tide pools and mangroves create a birdwatcher’s delight. In the tide pools green sea turtles or white-tip sharks can be spotted.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
Penguins Rays Herons Sea Lions Activities: 2-hour dinghy ride Type of Landing: No Landing
MONDAY AFTERNOON Elizabeth Bay is located on the east coast of Isabela Island. The bay contains many islets, which can be visited by dinghy. Penguins and Blue-footed Boobies can be spotted on the rocky islets. With an abundance of marine life and clear water, the area is perfect for snorkeling and viewing schools of colorful fish, sea lions, and perhaps even sharks.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Floreana
Santa Fé
Isabela
Española
Mangle Point
Excursion Information
Urbina Bay Floreana
Española
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS:
Flightless Cormorant
Fernandina Island
Marine Iguanas
Biggest Land Iguanas
Isabela Island
Galapagos Hawk
AA Lava
TUESDAY MORNING
Sea Lions Penguins Activities: Dinghy ride Type of Landing: None Difficulty: Easy
A panga ride around Mangle Point allows visitors to witness the amazing views and wildlife of the coast of Fernandina Island. This is a small inlet on Fernandina’s coast where sea lions, penguins, and flightless cormorants reside.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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Coral Reef Giant Tortoises Snorkeling: Turtles, Rays, Tropical Fish Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hike, 2 trails: short (0.6mi/1 km), long (1.9mi/3km) Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
TUESDAY AFTERNOON Urbina Bay is located at the base of Alcedo Volcano on the west coast, between Tagus Cove and Elizabeth Bay. This area experienced a major uplift in 1954, causing the land to rise over 16 feet. The coast expanded half a mile out, leaving marine life stranded on the new shore. This area is also a great place for snorkeling.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points
Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Excursion Information
Floreana
Santa Fé
Espinosa Point
Fernandina Island
Sea Lions Penguins Active Volcano “La Cumbre” Activities: Hike (1.2 mi / 2 km) Type of Landing: Dry and Slippery Difficulty: Moderate
Excursion Information Penguins
Isabela Island
Blue-footed Boobies
Marine Iguanas AA Lava
Vicente RocaEspañola Point
Floreana
HIGHLIGHTS:
HIGHLIGHTS: Flightless Cormorant
Isabela
Española
WEDNESDAY MORNING No foreign species have ever invaded Fernandina Island and therefore it is one of the world’s most pristine island ecosystems. The volcano “La Cumbre” dominates the landspace with lava fields reaching the ocean. The highlight of the island is the Flightless Cormorant’s nesting site. This area provides a great opportunity to see the Galapagos Hawk.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
Nazca Boobies Two Types of Sea Lions Snorkeling: Sea Turtles, Rays and Puffer Fish Activities: Snorkeling & dinghy ride Type of Landing: No Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON Isabela, the largest island in the archipelago with its seahorse shape, is also one of the youngest and most volcanically active. The afternoon visit is to Vicente Roca Point. Comprised of two separate coves, this site is a large bay with spectacular sea life. Keep an eye out for seahorses, sea turtles, and the strange yet fascinating Mola-mola (sunfish).
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Santa Fé
Espumilla Beach Isabela
Egas Port
Floreana
Isabela
Española
Excursion Information
Excursion Information
HIGHLIGHTS:
Floreana
Española
Buccaneer Cove
HIGHLIGHTS:
Santiago Island
Fur Seals Galapagos Sea Lions Tidal Pools and “Grottos” Galapagos Hawk Oyster Catchers Snorkeling: Reef Sharks, Turtles, Rays, Underwater Formations. Activities: Snorkeling, hiking (1.25 mi / 2 km) Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
THURSDAY MORNING Also known as James Bay, Egas Port is home to the curious Galapagos Hawk and Quick-footed Galapagos Lava Lizards. The trail leads to a coastline with gorgeous tide pools and grottos full of fauna. Here the Galapagos Fur Seals bathe in the sun.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
One Step Ahead
Santiago Island
Sea Birds
This is also a great snorkeling site.
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Snorkeling Historical Site Rock Formations Sharks Activities: Dinghy ride, snorkeling and swimming Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy
THURSDAY AFTERNOON Espumilla Beach is a popular place for marine iguanas and Sally Lightfoot Crabs. The crabs attract the hunting herons, performing the dance of predator and prey. Buccaneer Cove is a testament to the fact that Santiago was once a refuge for British buccaneers. These pirates would anchor in the protected bay to make repairs and stock up on tortoise meat among other things.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary
Marchena
Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome
Bartholome
North Seymour Rábida
Genovesa
Santiago
North Seymour
Baltra
Rábida
Baltra
South Plaza
South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina
San Cristobal
Fernandina
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
El Barranco
Floreana
Santa Fé
Española
Excursion Information
Isabela
Darwin Bay
HIGHLIGHTS:
Genovesa Island
Red-footed Boobies
Also known as Prince Phillip’s Steps, El Barranco’s steep, rocky paths leads up to a high cliff-face. A marvelous view can be appreciated from here. This site is also home to Palo Santo vegetation as well as Red-footed Boobies, Shorteared Lava Owls, Galapagos Swallows, and Galapagos Doves.
Storm Petrels Galapagos Doves Activities: Hiking (0.9 miles / 2 km) Type of Landing: Dry Landing Difficulty: Moderate
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
Española
Excursion Information HIGHLIGHTS:
Genovesa Island
Short-eared Lava Owls
FRIDAY MORNING
Floreana
Nazca Boobies Red-footed Boobies
FRIDAY AFTERNOON Darwin Bay. This whitesand coral beach heads a half mile trail (0.75 km) that winds through mangroves filled with land birds. Nazca Boobies, Red-footed Boobies, and Swallow-tailed Gulls can be spotted here. Further down the path are tide pools where sea lions swim playfully. At the end is a spectacular view off a cliff.
Swallow-tailed Gulls Mangroves Coral Pebbles Beach Snorkeling: Rays, Colorful Reef Fish and Hammerhead Sharks Activities: Hiking (0.9 mi/1 ½ km), snorkeling, kayaking & dinghy ride Type of Landing: Wet Landing Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise. Subject to change.
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galapagos visitor points Day by Day Cormorant Itinerary Marchena
Genovesa
Santiago Bartholome North Seymour Rábida
Baltra South Plaza San Cristobal
Fernandina Santa Cruz Santa Fé
Isabela
Floreana
Española
Excursion Information HIGHLIGHTS: Magnificent Frigatebirds
North Seymour Island
Great Frigatebirds Blue-footed Boobies Sea Lions Rays Reef Sharks Garden Eels Activities: Snorkeling, dinghy ride & hiking (1 ½ mi / 2 ½ km) Type of Landing: Dry Difficulty: Moderate / Difficult
SATURDAY MORNING North Seymour is a low-lying island and has a very large population of Blue-footed Boobies. It is also home to the largest colony of the Magnificent Frigatebirds on the Islands. The large red pouch of the males makes for quite a spectacle. The first half of the trail is sandy but the second half is rocky. The island was formed by a series of submarine lavas containing layers of sediment that were uplifted by tectonic activity.
For itineraries: 8-day Cruise “B” and 15-day Cruise (end of both cruises). Subject to change.
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Nature Highlights by Month
One Step Ahead
NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
January January marks the start of the rainy season on the island. After the first rain, most land birds begin their nesting process. The average temperature during the month of January reaches a maximum of 30ºC and a minimum of 22ºC (86.0ºF max/71.6 ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 24ºC (76 ºF). Española Island: During this time on Española Island, adult marine iguanas become brightly colored, displaying combinations such as green and red + black. Isabela: During this period land iguanas begin their reproductive cycles. Hundreds of years ago, the land iguanas were abundant, but their population became nearly extinct after locals started to eat them and non-native species were introduced (domestic and feral). Presently, the Galapagos National Park is working with a captive breeding program that has allowed hundreds of young iguanas to be reintroduced. Galapagos Islands: January is the time when green sea turtles arrive at the beaches to begin laying their eggs. In many beaches, signs from the Galapagos National Park will be put up in order to prevent visitors from disturbing the nests.
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February The average temperature during the month of February reaches a maximum of 30ºC and a minimum of 24ºC (86.0ºF max/75.2ºF min). The water reaches a temperature of 25ºC (77ºF) and remains fairly constant until April. Floreana Island: Flamingos start their nesting season during this month. Española Island: Nazca boobies reach the end of their nesting season. Santa Cruz Island: Marine iguanas begin their nesting cycles at this time. Bartholomew Island: It’s rare but not impossible to see a few penguins at Bartholomew Island as the majority have followed the cool waters back to the west. Galapagos Islands: Bahama pintail ducks (Black-tailed pintail) start their breeding season. During this month, the Galapagos Dove reaches the peak of it’s nesting season.
NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
March This month marks the peak time of the rainy season; however this doesn’t mean that rain falls are constant. Precipitation reaches its highest point and air temperatures reach up to 30ºC (86ºF). The tropical rains are sporadic and the sun is intense adding to this hot climate. Humidity is at high levels during this time. The average temperature during the month of March reaches a maximum of 31ºC and a minimum of 24ºC (87.8ºF max/75.2ºF min). The average water temperature is 25ºC (77ºF). Fernandina and North Seymour: Marine Iguanas start their nesting period. Española: At the end of the month the waved Albatross starts making their way to the Islands; usually they do so at the start of the summer equinox. Here the albatrosses, a monogamous species, will wait for their life mates to return once more. San Cristobal & Genovesa: Frigate birds continue with their mating rituals inflating their red pouches and making impressive displays to attract the females. Galapagos Islands: The warm current in the western islands of Bartholomew, Isablea and Fernandina brings with it a lot of activity for tropical fish, and also for the Galapagos penguins that can be seen in these islands.
April April marks the end of the rainy season. Although there is no more rain the vegetation preserves its green color. The months of April and March are considered to be the best months to visit the Islands weather wise. Snorkelers will enjoy a good visibility during their activities. The average temperature during the month of April reaches a maximum of 31ºC and a minimum of 24ºC (87.8ºF max/75.2ºF min). The average water temperature is 25ºC (77ºF). Española: After a long flight from the coasts of Peru the Waved Albatross starts arriving to the archipelago. An intricate courtship starts between the arriving albatrosses, including mating calls, beak clacking and other impresive displays. The Albatrosses mate for life so the courtship is a very important stage in the life of these animals. Isabela: Hatching of land iguana eggs. Galapagos Islands: April marks the ending of the hatching season for the giant tortoises. As in other reptiles, the sex of the tortoise is determined by the temperature of the nest; therefore lower temperature nests produce more males and higher temperature nests produce more females. This is related closely to incubation time, since clutches laid
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NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
during the cool season have longer incubation periods and produce more males, while eggs laid in the hot season incubate in a shorter period of time producing more females. Eggs of green sea turtles begin to hatch. Once hatched the green sea turtle instinctively directs itself to the sea; this is probably the most difficult and dangerous journey of their entire lives, since the path to the sea is filled with predators. Once they reach their sexual maturity the green sea turtles will always return to the same shore to mate and place its eggs.
Gardner Bay, Punta Cormorant, and Puerto Egas: Green turtle eggs are still hatching. Santa Cruz: On Santa Cruz, Marine iguana eggs start to hatch; this unique species of iguana found only on the Galapagos Island is the only iguana that has the ability to live and forage in the sea. Española: The Waived Albatross starts laying its eggs. The albatross does not build a nest like most birds, instead they lay their eggs on the ground and roll them, covering distances as much as 40 meters. Galapagos Islands: Due to the lack of rain Palo Santo trees start losing their foliage, protecting themselves from dehydration. The first nesting period of the band-rumped storm petrels starts.
May May is the transition month between the dry and the rainy season; this transition makes it the best month to visit the archipelago. Water during this month is calm and clear making snorkeling and diving an unforgettable experience. The average temperature during the month of May reaches a maximum of 28ºC and a minimum of 22ºC (82.4ºF max/71.6ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 24ºC (76ºF). North Seymour: Blue footed boobies at North Seymour begin their courtship. Showing off their blue feet with unusual dances, male boobies try to impress females with the color of their feet since the blue coloration on their membranes denotes their ability to catch fish under water. 34 One Step Ahead
June June marks the beginning of the cold season known as Garúa. The weather is affected by the cold winds that come from the southeast causing cooler air temperature and more mist on the islands. The average temperature during the month of June reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 21ºC (78.8ºF max/69.8ºF min). The average water temperature is 23ºC (73ºF).
NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
Santa Cruz: June marks the beginning of the nesting period for the Giant Tortoises. These giants begin their long journey across the islands in search for the best spot to build their nests and lay their eggs. Their journey may take a long time since the average speed of a giant tortoise of 0.16 miles per hour (0.26 kilometers per hour). North Seymour: The first red pouches of the frigatebirds can be seen in the colonies that live at North Seymour. Frigate birds construct a rough nest on the ground or tree where they will lay a single egg; males inflate their pouch in order to attract females. Galapagos Islands: Migrant birds from the south make a stop on the islands while they make their way to the north. Some species of cetaceans that follow the same migration routes can be seen close to the islands. Humpback whales that migrate to hotter waters in order to breed and reproduce can be seen near the equator. Some of them approach the archipelago and can be seen in open waters.
July The average temperature during the month of July reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 20ºC (78.8ºF max/68.0ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 22ºC (71ºF). Española Island: The colonies of Blue Footed Boobies start courtship, mating and reproduction. July is the only month in which you can witness the full stages of nesting: clutch, incubation of the chicks, juveniles and subadults. Fernandina Island: The Flightless Cormorant performs their courtship rituals and start their nesting season. This native Galapagos bird is the only cormorant that has lost the ability to fly. Usually the female lay three whitish eggs per clutch, although only one chick survives. Incubation, feeding and brooding is shared by both parents. Santiago Island: On the Shores of Puerto Egas you can observe the American Oystercatchers nesting season. Isabela: On the western coast of the Island cetaceans like whales and dolphins are likely to be seen. Galapagos Islands: Lava lizards start their mating rituals, which last until November.
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NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
September
August The average temperature during the month of August reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 19ºC (78.8ºF max/66.2ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 21ºC (70ºF). Española & Santiago: The Galapagos Seahawks start their courting process. Genovesa: Masked Boobies, also known as Nazca Boobies and Swallow-Tailed Gulls, nest at this Island. Santa Cruz: The giant tortoises start their long journey back to the humid highlands of Santa Cruz. Galapagos Islands: At the central and southern islands newborn sea lions are found with their mothers. Migrant shore birds start their arrival to the islands, where they stay until March.
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The average temperature during the month of September reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 19ºC (78.8ºF max/66.2ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 22ºC (71ºF). The strong winds makes this the coldest month in the archipelago. Bartholomew, Fernandina and Isabela: The Galapagos Penguin is the second smallest penguin in the world, and is the only penguin that lives north of the equator line. The penguin population is small, with only 2000 individuals, making it one of the many endangered species of the archipelago. The cold temperatures during this month brings with it lots of activity to the shores of Fernandina and Isabela where you might be able to see this remarkable bird in action. Genovesa, Española & Fernandina: Most marine birds remain active at their nesting sites. Galapagos Islands: During the month of September, sea lion females reach their estrus stage; meanwhile males start fighting for the control of the beach and therefore the control of the harem.
NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
During the month of October the Galapagos Fur Seals, an endemic species to the Galapagos Islands and the smallest of the otariids, start their mating season.
October The dry winds from the Andes still reach the Galapagos Islands and the Garúa continues in most of the islands, the weather starts to become warmer and new life blossoms on the islands.
November
The average temperature during the month of October reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 20ºC (78.8ºF max/68.0ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 22.5ºC (72.5ºF).
The dry winds coming from the south east have decreased their intensity, therefore the temperature of the air and water starts to increase. The weather during this month is very pleasant since it marks the transition between the cold and warm seasons.
Española, North Seymour & Isabela: Blue Footed Boobies raise their chicks; this specie of booby is one of the two species of boobies that raises more than one chick in a breeding cycle. Both parents share responsibilities while raising the chicks.
The average temperature during the month of November reaches a maximum of 26ºC and a minimum of 21ºC (78.8ºF max/69.8ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 23ºC (73ºF).
Although the blue footed Booby lays two eggs during its breading cycle both eggs are not laid at the same time. The second egg is usually laid four to five days after the first egg. This disparity in hatching time usually leads to fratricide and the survival of only one of the chicks (usually the older one). Galapagos Islands: Lava herons start their nesting period. This process can last until March. Meanwhile the giant tortoises lay their eggs on different Islands.
Floreana, Gardner & Tortuga: Groups of jellyfish can be seen close to the shores of the islands; the genus Physalia is one of the most commonly seen during this season. Champion Islet: Sea Lion pups, between the age of 3 to 4 months, swim and explore the nearby coast lines. Their curious nature often takes them close to snorkelers who are delighted by their acrobatic movements underwater. Galapagos Islands: On the eastern islands of the archipelago sea lions are still sexually active, while in other islands
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NATURE HIGHLIGHTS BY MONTH The Galapagos Islands
mothers are still taking care of their offspring. At the far northwestern part of the archipelago divers might have the opportunity to see whale sharks, the largest known fish species.
Genovesa: The Frigate Bird begins its mating season and the first red pouches can be seen while the males try to impress the females with their vibrant display of colors.
The Brown Noddy, a tropical seabird that lives all over the world, starts its breeding season. The Storm Petrels, that are a monogamous species, start their second nesting period. The petrel has become an endangered species due to introduced species such as rats and cats that pillage and destroy their nests.
Galapagos Islands: The first giant tortoises start hatching their eggs. This process can last until April. December is also the beginning of the mating season for the green sea turtles which start to show their matting behavior. Migratory birds all over the archipelago start their migration towards the south followed by some cetaceans that follow the bird’s migration patterns. This bird will not return to the Islands until March since the Galapagos Islands are only a rest stop for this bird. The first young Waved Albatrosses start a 1,000 km (620 mi) journey to the Peruvian coast.
December December comes with the rainy season and it is the perfect weather to enjoy the Galapagos Islands. The days are sunny and the sea is calm and warm on most of the Islands. The dry forests begin to produce leaves and once again the islands start to regain their vibrant life. Although the weather is getting warmer the temperature of the water is still cold for long snorkeling periods. The average temperature during the month of December reaches a maximum of 27ºC and a minimum of 22ºC (80.6ºF max/71.6ºF min). The average water temperature during this month is 23.5ºC (74ºF).
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In 2007, this species was listed as a critically endangered species due to long-line fishing in the coast of Peru.
Living Aboard Information
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living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Island Visits NATIONAL PARK RULES
VISITOR SITES
The Galapagos Islands were UNESCO’s first natural World Heritage site. To preserve the islands, the Galapagos National Park has established rules for all visitors which your guide is required to both explain and enforce. Please adhere to the regulations.
The catamaran will anchor at two visitor sites each day. You will be transported to the islands in pangas (local name for dinghies). Landings may be “wet” or “dry”.
The basic rules are:
At dry landings you step directly onto land. Once ashore your guide will lead you along marked trails explaining the natural history as you walk.
• Follow the instructions of your guide. • Do not touch or feed the animals. • Do not get too close to the animals. • Do not disturb or chase any animals. • Do not litter. • Do not smoke on the islands. • Do not take food or drinks onto the islands (water is allowed). • Do not remove any animal, animal remains, plant, plant remains or rock material from the islands. • Stay on the marked trails. • Stay with your group and guide at all times. • Whenever you leave the visitor sites please clean your shoes and feet to avoid transporting seeds. • Shore visits are between 6 AM and 6 PM. • TAKE ONLY PHOTOS, LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS. 40 One Step Ahead
At wet landings you will step from the panga into water and wade to shore.
Shore visits are done at a leisurely pace allowing plenty of time to enjoy and photograph the amazing wildlife and scenery. Typically you will spend between 2 and 4 hours at each site. There is often an opportunity to swim and / or snorkel during these visits. At some visitor sites you will not actually go ashore. In such cases, the visit will be a panga ride to observe the wildlife and scenery and may involve snorkeling from the panga as well.
WHAT TO TAKE ON LAND • Hat with a brim • Sunscreen • Sunglasses • Water bottle
living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
• Appropriate footwear • Personal medications • Cameras and binoculars • Extra film, memory cards, discs • Spare batteries • Small daypack • A walking stick if you need one • A light raincoat (depending on the weather) • Insect repellant
LANDINGS The shores of the islands, and the access to visiting sites, can have rocky surfaces or beaches. Landings may be “dry” or “wet”.
SNORKELING & WETSUITS Use of snorkeling and wetsuits are complimentary. You will be provided a bag for your fins and masks. The snorkeling bags and wetsuits have a small tag with your cabin number on it for easier identification.
SNORKELING & SWIMMING Be careful when snorkeling and swimming. Currents can be strong, the water can be cold and waves can be large. Please take precautions and pay close attention to the instructions. The main safety points are listed below: • Do not go into the water unless you are sure that you are in sufficient good health and physical condition. • Follow your guide’s instructions.
Dry landings are easily performed, as we find a flat rocky surface or pier for proper docking. When a beach is the only way of accessing a visitor site, we have to perform a wet landing.
• Remain with the guide, panga and the group at all times.
These are also quite simple, just remove your shoes & socks, swing your legs over the side of the panga and wade ashore.
• Choose a snorkeling buddy.
From time to time, we may find rougher swells than usual, so the wet landing may require extra caution. At any landing, please follow the instructions of your guide and crew.
• If you feel more comfortable in the water with a life vest, you are welcome to wear one. • Swim into the current first. • Call the supporting panga if you are tired. • Stay away from the outboard motor at the back of the panga. • Never get on / off the panga from the back. 41
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living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
BRIEFINGS Your guide will give daily briefings to describe the next day’s activities (visitor sites, dry or wet landing, panga rides, safety, timings, etc). Briefings are normally carried out in the lounge before dinner.
WAKE UP CALL You will receive a wake up call via the PA system every morning approximately 30 minutes before breakfast (or before departure time if the first visit is prior to breakfast).
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living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Health & Safety SAFETY ON BOARD
KEYS & SAFETY BOXES
Safety is our priority. Please pay special attention to safety matters so as to not jeopardize your own safety, or the safety of other passengers and crew members.
We do not issue keys to the cabins; nevertheless valuables may be stored in the safety boxes located inside each cabin.
Your guide will explain the safety procedures to you during the daily briefings.
A safety box instruction guide is located in each cabin.
Here is a summary of the main safety points:
CREW AREAS
• Memorize your way to the deck in case of emergency. • Always use the life vests while riding in the pangas.
Restricted areas for crew only (work areas and living quarters) are clearly marked. All other areas are open to guests.
• Accept assistance when getting on and off the boat and panga.
The bridge is open one day per tour and you are more than to welcome to visit.
• Check exactly where the life vests are in your cabin.
• Be careful when walking on the deck while the boat is moving. • Advise your guide of any medical issues or allergies.
SMOKING
• Drink plenty of water.
Smoking is not allowed on the islands nor within enclosed areas of the boat.
NIGHT TIME ASSISTANCE
Smoking is permitted only on the upper deck and at the bar; though we ask that you be considerate of other passengers who may be within the vicinity.
If you require assistance during the night please call any of the crew members or go directly to the bridge.
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living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Dining & Refreshments MEALS
ICE
Meals on board are usually served at the following times:
Ice is available from the machine at the bar. Please request ice from the barman.
Breakfast:
7:00 am (approx.)
Lunch:
Midday
Dinner:
7:30 pm (approx.) ďżź
Times will vary depending on the daily program. Light snacks, tea and coffee are available between meals. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, and sit down dinners are served in the dining area with the exception of some lunch buffets and barbeques that are served in the al fresco areas. If you have any special dietary needs please let us know. We will do our best to accommodate you.
WATER The water from the taps on board is potable, however we advise our guests only to drink water from the dispensers located in the communal areas. We are self-supplied with water; our two desalinating plants produce sufficient potable water for an ample daily consumption.
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BAR Water and other soft drinks are complimentary. There is also a range of alcoholic beverages available. The barman will start a tab for you which can be paid at the end of the cruise. Any liquor bottles that are brought aboard by passengers and require opening will be charged $28 with tax included.
living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Cabins AIR-CONDITIONING All cabins and inside communal areas for passengers have air-conditioning (A/C).
Kindly hang clean cabin towels. If new towels are needed or are dirty, please leave them on the floor so housekeeping will know they need to be replaced.
Simply press the start/stop button to operate the A/C and listen for the beep. Please ensure that all windows and doors are shut before operating the A/C.
SHOWER
ELECTRICAL CURRENT
Since we convert salt water into fresh water onboard (desalination), water conservation is always a concern of ours. Whenever possible, please save water.
All electrical outlets on board are 110V. Special outlets for 220V are available.
HOUSEKEEPING The cabins are cleaned every morning. We provide you with at least three full services per day. We normally service all cabins while you are enjoying your outing, but if for some reason you decide to stay in your cabin, we will not disturb you.
The shower in your cabin is equipped with dual controls, for both hot and cold water.
CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT We care for the world we live in and try to operate in an environmently friendly manner. Please help us by keeping your water and air-conditioning use on board to a minimum. Towels are changed according to our environmental policy every two days.
TOWELS Special colored beach towels will be provided for use on deck and onshore. Please do not take the cabin towels to the beach or to the sun deck.
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living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
On Board Facilities LOUNGE
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The lounge has comfortable seating, a plasma TV with a surround sound system, a DVD player and stereo for your use.
We accept US $ cash and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard).
There is also a small library of books and DVDs about the Galapagos Islands and other topics.
Please note that shipboard expenses and gratuities may also be charged to Visa or Mastercard. Regretfully, we cannot accept personal or travelers checks.
Feel free to use the laptop for viewing / downloading photos, etc.
TAXES & SERVICE CHARGE
JACUZZI
The Cormorant Motor Catamaran is an Ecuadorian flagged ship operating in Ecuadorian waters and as such it is subject to Ecuadorian laws.
Please note that the Jacuzzi is only available certain days of the cruise due to ocean movements. Please check with cruise personnel for times of use.
CHECK-OUT / CHECK-IN
BULLETIN BOARD Here you will find useful announcements and news about your cruise.
COMMUNICATIONS In more remote areas the boat maintains communications using satellite phone and radio. Wi-Fi is not available on board.
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On your last day, please pack your bags and leave them in the corridor. Your crew will transport your baggage to the airport and will take care of check-in.
PERSONAL ITEMS Before your departure, we kindly remind you to check your cabin and safety boxes for your personal items in order to not leave any memories behind. Please let our crew know in case of any forgotten items, we will be more than happy help you.
living aboard information Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
GUEST BOOK For an everlasting souvenir of your presence on board, kindly sign the Cruise Guest Book which can be found in the lounge.
CRUISE SURVEY At the end of your cruise you will be given a cruise survey. We are always looking to improve the Galapagos experience that we offer and would appreciate it if you could spare a few minutes to complete the survey.
Please give all envelopes marked “CREW” to the captain and those marked “GUIDE” directly to your Naturalist guide. All the money in the “CREW” envelope will be shared equally among the 10 crew members. Recommended tipping amounts per day per person are $20 for the crew (keep in mind it will be divided among 10 crew members), and $10 for your guide. Please understand that this is just a suggestion: tipping / gratuities are a very personal matter and it entirely depends on the value of the service you received.
TIPPING / GRATUITIES In Galapagos it is customary to leave a tip for the guide and crew separately. Tips are at the sole discretion of the passengers and should be based on the level of service received. If you wish to leave a tip you may give it directly to the relevant staff member. Alternatively, you can put cash in the envelopes marked “CREW” and “GUIDE” that will be left in your room on your last day.
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ABOUT THE CORMORANT Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Deck Plans MAIN DECK
UPPER DECK Bar
Balcony
Balcony
Balcony
Balcony
Bar Dining room
Cabin 1
Lounge Cabin 2 Library
Balcony
Captain Cabin
Suite A Cabin 3
Cabin 5
Cabin 4
Cabin 6
Suite B
Guide Cabin
Balcony
Balcony
SUN DECK
Bridge
Balcony
LOWER DECK Engine room Generator room
Jacuzzi
Kitchen
Generator room
Crew cabins
Crew cabins
Crew cabins
Crew cabins
Cabin7
In case of emergency please note that in every cabin there is an emergency escape plan. Please familiarize yourself with this information.
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Escape routes are posted in each cabin. Please take time to review these carefully.
ABOUT THE CORMORANT
Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Technical Specifications Year of construction: 2011 Type: Power Motor Catamaran Length: 108 ft (33 m) Beam: 39 ft (12 m) Draft: 5 ft (1.40 m) Capacity: 16 Passengers Accommodation: •
Main Deck: 2 Suites 441ft² / 41m² (private balcony), 2 Double Staterooms 301 ft² / 28 m² (private balcony) • Upper Deck: 4 Connected Cabins 301 ft² / 28 m² (private balcony) • Lower Deck: 1 Single Cabin 150 ft² / 14 m²
Main engines: Cummins QSM 11 / 400 HP @ 2100 RPM Max speed: 14 Knots Water maker: 1000 Gallons / Day Exterior: GFRP (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) Crew: • • • •
Captain Bilingual Galapagos National Park Guide Quality Control Manager 8 Other Crew Members (First Mate, Second Mate, Chef, Sous Chef, Mechanical Engineer, Assistant Engineer, Bartender, Housekeeper)
Safety & Navigation: All equipment meets and exceeds the international SOLAS standards. • 2x 20-man Life Raft • Navtex • 2 GPS • Depth Sounder • 2 Naval Radars • Fire Detection and Prevention Systems etc. Available Gear: • • •
Kayaks Snorkeling Gear Wet Suits
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ABOUT THE CORMORANT Cormorant Galapagos Cruise
Your Crew
You Captain
Quality Control Manager
Guide
Waiter / Bartender
Chef
Sous Chef
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Housekeeper
Mechanical Engineer
First Mate
Assistant Engineer
2nd Mate
Haugan Cruises is Located at: 265 Foch Street and 6 de Diciembre, 6th Floor Sonelsa Tower Quito - Ecuador
CONTACT US: marketing@haugancruises.com sales@haugancruises.com
TELEPHONES: Direct Line: (593-2) 254-7587
Toll Free: 1-800-769-0869
Toll Free: 0-808-258-0086 *Office Hours are 8:30am-6:30pm Mon-Fri. GMT -5
Issue date: September 3rd, 2015
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