
Cormorant
A luxurious ship with just 6 guest cabins and 2 suites. Itineraries on the Cormorant can be as adventurous as you like.
The Galapagos’ most southern island, named Hood Island by the English, is considered, alongside Santa Fe, as one of the oldest of the Galapagos Islands at 4 million years of age. Here the sheer variety and amount of wildlife is almost overwhelming, the star of the show being the endemic Waved Albatross. This island one of only two places in the world where these intriguing birds nest.
After a successful program to remove feral species, Espanola Island is now considered to be the most pristine of the islands with many species of migrant and endemic birds. Endemic species include a rather colourful marine iguana, the Hood mockingbird and a special little lava lizard, all repatriated as a result of a breeding program by the Charles Darwin Research Station and Galapagos National Park.
It is thought that Espanola Island was formed when lavas were extruded beneath the water’s surface, later uplifting to form an island. Terrain is relatively flat with a few hills and vegetation is rather arid, consisting mainly of thorny plants.
There are two visitor spots on the island, Gardner Bay and Punta Suarez. Gardner Bay is on the north east of the island and a stop here welcomes you with a big white sandy beach peppered with lazy sea lions basking in the heat of the sun. Fearless Hood mockingbirds investigate the new arrivals, often landing on heads in their search of food. The clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and you may encounter the playful sea lions in the waves, as well as rather large tropical fish, such as yellow-tailed surgeonfish and the rather comical looking bump-head parrotfish. You may even spot sea turtles swimming or a white-tipped reef shark snapping on the ocean floor.
At Punta Suarez you follow a trail through a rookery spotting Nazca boobies and blue footed boobies, as well as Galapagos doves, cactus finch and mockingbirds foraging. Keep on the trail to spot a blow-hole created from black lava, moving on to ‘Albatross Airport’, where these magnificent winged creatures launch themselves out over the crashing ocean – further from the cliff you will find their nesting site.
Espanola is home to many of the experiences, animals and landscapes travellers associate with when they think of the Galapagos Islands. A colourful island that we love to encourage visitors to experience.
A luxurious ship with just 6 guest cabins and 2 suites. Itineraries on the Cormorant can be as adventurous as you like.
Letty is a custom designed yacht with only 10 cabins split over 3 decks providing for an intimate Galapagos experience.
With space for 40 guests the modern Isabela 2 explores the dramatic Galapagos Islands and is ideal for family departures.
The M/V Evolution is an elegant and beautiful yacht with spacious suites and staterooms for up to 32 guests.
The brand new Origin and its sister ship Theory are a luxurious way to explore the Galapagos Islands. Book with the experts at Natural World Safaris.
A luxurious, boutique-style yacht in the Galapagos Islands, MY Grace has space for up to just 18 guests at a time.
A unique ships only available as a private charter in the Galapagos Islands. Perfect for creating a bespoke Galapagos journey.
Ocean Spray offers just 9 cabins and is perfect for any adventurous travellers looking for a bit of affordable luxury.
SS Mary Anne is an elegant yacht with 10 ensuite wood pannelled double cabins, bar-lounge area and ample comfortable seating.
With some of the most spacious cabins around, this intimate and luxurious ship is an excellent choice for the families.
Contact our destination specialist to start planning your journey.