Metropolitan Touring Adds Longer Galapagos Cruise Options

Metropolitan Touring is expanding its Galapagos cruise offerings with two new extended itineraries designed for both first-time and return visitors.

Launching onboard La Pinta and Isabela II, the new eight-night programs are Islands of Fire Adventure and Origin of the Species Adventure.

“We designed the two new itineraries as a double espresso for Galapagos travelers,” said Adrián Peñafiel, vice president of marketing and sales for Metropolitan Touring. “Two exceptional itineraries combined into one seamless voyage that delivers a rich and immersive experience.”

Wildlife-centric by design, the new eight-night itineraries give travelers more time to encounter almost all of Galapagos’ iconic “Big 15” species, such as blue-footed boobies, Galapagos sea lions, land iguanas, giant tortoises, American flamingos, and more.

Islands of Fire Adventure

Operated onboard the Isabela II, this itinerary includes stops on eight islands. 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, this itinerary follows a route rich in Darwin history and biodiversity, beginning on Baltra and continuing to South Plaza and Santa Fe. The itinerary also includes San Cristóbal, with a visit to the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Habitat, plus 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.