Danubio Azul Yacht
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Galápagos with safety and expert guidance. An exceptional journey since 2016.
In August 2016, the great voyage of the Blue Danube, a tourist-class diving cruise, set sail. Blessed by the Galápagos National Park, this ship stands as the gateway to naturalist and diving expeditions of unparalleled wonder.
Prepare to dive into the unknown, because the Blue Danube is not just a boat; it is a promise of an exceptional, safe, and exclusive diving experience in one of the most extraordinary places on Earth. Adventure calls, and the depths await your exploration.
This expedition is more than just a dive; it is a journey through time, uncovering the living history of a place that has inspired scientists and adventurers for generations. Be captivated by the same waters that mesmerized Charles Darwin, and embark on a journey that goes beyond the surface to reveal the heart of evolution.
With safety as the top priority, the Blue Danube ensures your diving experience is not only memorable but also secure. Expert crew and state-of-the-art equipment come together to provide a seamless and worry-free adventure in this magnificent aquatic world.
The Blue Danube is not just a ship; it is a vessel of discovery. A journey with us is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty and ecological significance of Galápagos. So, answer the call of adventure, embrace the spirit of exploration, and let the Blue Danube be your guide to a world beneath the waves.
Basic Information:
· Category: Tourist Class
· Capacity: 14 passengers / 8 cabins
· Departures: Tuesday to Tuesday
· UPPER DECK:
· 1 double cabin with a matrimonial bed and ocean-view windows
· 2 single cabins with windows
Social Areas: Outdoor dining area, Sun deck terrace
MAIN DECK:
· Double cabins
· Shaded diving area
· Diving platform
· Dining area and bar
· Small library
· Kitchen
LOWER DECK:
· Bunk-bed cabins: one lower double bed and one upper single bed with portholes
Itinerary
Naturalist Itinerary 8D/7N (Tuesday to Tuesday)
Day 1
AM: Arrival at Baltra Airport
PM: Black Turtle Cove
Upon arriving at Baltra Airport at 10:23 AM, our transportation will be ready to take you aboard the Blue Danube, set to embark on this exciting adventure. The visit to Black Turtle Cove involves a motorized panga ride, allowing you to explore the mangrove ponds. These lagoons are a refuge for rays, sharks, and sea turtles, visible clearly from the boat. Once the motor is turned off, you will slowly approach the various species inhabiting this serene place.
Day 2
AM: South Plaza Island
PM: Santa Fe Island, Barrington Bay
A dry landing introduces you to a vivid blend of life and color. Land iguanas roam the red algae carpets, swallow-tailed gulls nest on the cliffs, and red-billed tropicbirds and shearwaters perform aerial dances. Watch out for the "sky pirates" who might strike if you lower your guard! South Plaza is among the archipelago's best spots to observe land iguanas and swallow-tailed gulls, both endemic species. Bird nests are scattered across the hillside, and the southern cliffs provide a perfect habitat for seabirds.
Barrington Bay is a picturesque paradise with white sandy seabeds reflecting turquoise waters. A small forest of giant prickly pear cacti grows on a peninsula sheltering the bay. This environment is ideal for a large sea lion colony. Santa Fe, an ancient extinct volcano, is home to an endemic pale-colored land iguana. Accompanying this yellowish "monster" are Galápagos hawks, songbirds, finches, and endemic rice rats. Snorkeling here will not disappoint.
Day 3
AM: David Rodríguez Breeding Center
PM: Witch Hill
Located southeast of San Cristóbal Island, this center lets you observe giant tortoises in a semi-natural habitat. The facility aims to preserve and restore this tortoise population, once widespread on the island. You’ll see tortoises of all ages and learn about their life cycle through the exhibition hall.
At Witch Hill, on San Cristóbal's northern coast, the main attraction is a pristine white sand beach flanked by lava flows separating two saltwater lagoons. These lagoons are as captivating as the flora and fauna surrounding them. Historically, locals extracted salt here to preserve food. The scenic views from Witch Hill include Kicker Rock and the southern region of Upper San Cristóbal. This site is ideal for long walks, panga rides, and snorkeling.
Day 4
AM: Post Office Bay
PM: Cormorant Point
Survival, mystery, and murder are the highlights of Post Office Bay’s history, adding adventure to your expedition. After a wet landing, you’ll walk a short distance to engage in the Galápagos' most enduring tradition. Later, a panga ride will take you westward past islets with sea lions, boobies, and mangroves before arriving at Baroness Lookout. This eroded volcanic cone offers a vivid view of the human history of “The Enchanted Isles.”
Cormorant Point on Floreana’s northern coast is home to greater flamingos and marine turtles. One side features a brackish lagoon where flamingos nest, while the other hosts a white sandy beach used by turtles for nesting. Rays and reef sharks are often visible near the shore, and you might spot turtles basking in the sun.
Day 5
AM: Sullivan Bay, Santiago Island
PM: Bartolomé Island
The genesis of the islands is evident in Sullivan Bay, with pahoehoe lava formations just 131 years old. On Santiago Island's eastern coast, this lava flow displays intact drip cones, with older ash cones overtaken by rivers of lava. The landscape's contrast of colors and forms resembles a Martian terrain.
Bartolomé Island offers dramatic volcanic scenery. Prepare to climb over 270 feet to admire Pinnacle Rock and enjoy the golden beaches where marine turtles nest (December to March). Snorkeling here might include encounters with penguins, sharks, and lava tubes.
Day 6
AM: Rabida Island
PM: Chinese Hat
Rabida Island’s iron-rich lavas have turned red after millions of years of exposure. Its crimson beach, perfect for walking, contrasts beautifully with the surrounding volcanic landscapes. The protected coast shelters a sea lion nursery, and nearby salt flats attract brown pelicans for nesting. Snorkeling here often reveals sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
Chinese Hat is a small island near Santiago with white sandy beaches housing sea lions. Snorkeling here is excellent, and you may even spot Galápagos penguins in the water.
Day 7
AM: Eden Islet
PM: Whale Bay / El Chato
Eden Islet, near Santa Cruz, offers a fascinating site for observing turtles, with nine different species inhabiting the area.
Day 8
AM: Las Bachas Beach, Santa Cruz
PM: Baltra – Flight Back to Quito or Guayaquil
The tour concludes with a visit to Las Bachas Beach, where trails lead to lagoons frequented by flamingos and coastal birds. After this final stop, transportation will take you back to Baltra Airport for your return flight.
