New 9-day/8-night itinerary on yachts La Pinta and Isabela II travels to 8 Galápagos islands with opportunity to see
14 of the BIG 15 species

Metropolitan Touring is expanding its Galápagos cruise offerings with two new extended itineraries designed for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. Launching aboard La Pinta and Isabela II, the new 9-day/8-night programs, Islands of Fire Adventure and Origin of the Species Adventure, give travelers more time to immerse themselves in the remote beauty, extraordinary wildlife, and volcanic landscapes of the islands that inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution.

“We designed the two new itineraries as a double espresso for Galápagos travelers.  Two exceptional itineraries combined into one seamless voyage that delivers a rich and immersive experience,” said Adrián Peñafiel, VP of Marketing and Sales of Metropolitan Touring. “The new expedition cruises pair luxurious comforts at sea with access to the best sites and our expertly guided excursions across the islands.”

The Iconic Big 15

Wildlife-centric by design, the new 9-day itineraries give travelers more time to encounter almost all the Galápagos’ iconic “BIG 15” species, from blue-footed boobies and Galápagos sea lions to land iguanas, giant tortoises, American flamingos, and Galápagos penguins, creating the kind of sightings that become lifelong memories (and standout photo rolls).

Islands of Fire Adventure

The Islands of Fire Adventure aboard the yacht Isabela II delivers a sweeping route across eight islands, pairing dramatic volcanic landscapes with iconic wildlife encounters. Highlights include Santa Cruz Island and the Charles Darwin Research Station; Bartolomé, known for snorkeling with penguins; and Santiago Island, where guests explore the cliffs of Buccaneer Cove, spot fur seals, and visit Chinese Hat, a favorite penguin spot. Additional landings include Fernandina, one of the archipelago’s most pristine environments; wildlife-rich Isabela; and Genovesa (“Bird Island”), home to remote seabird colonies.

Origin of the Species Adventure

Sailing on the La Pinta yacht, the Origin of the Species Adventure follows an immersive Galápagos route rich in Darwin history and biodiversity, beginning on Baltra and continuing to South Plaza and Santa Fe, known for land iguanas and frequent sightings of the Galápagos hawk. The itinerary includes San Cristóbal, with a visit to the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Habitat, plus standout landings at Punta Pitt and Cerro Brujo, and a full day on Española featuring seabird colonies at Punta Suárez and snorkeling at Gardner Bay. Guests also explore Eden Islet, Bartolomé, and Sullivan Bay, before ending on Genovesa, where Nazca and red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and short-eared owls create a spectacular finale.

Rates and Inclusions

Rates for Metropolitan Touring’s new extended Galápagos itineraries, the Islands of Fire Adventure start at $9,208 per person, and Origin of the Species Adventure, start at $11,974 per person, including accommodations aboard La Pinta or Isabela II; land and water excursions guided by expert naturalists; visits to the Charles Darwin Research Station and Giant Tortoise Reserve; all meals; non-alcoholic beverages; snorkeling gear; and wetsuits.