The Galápagos The Galápagos Islands, located around 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, remained closed off from the world for millions of years. The archipelago evolved over that time into a home for an extraordinary range of plants and animals. With most of its wildlife-rich islands enshrined within a vast national park, a small ship cruise on a vessel such as Aqua Mare or Santa Cruz II is the best way to maximize the experience. Itineraries typically feature one or more of the island
groupings, such as Eastern or Western, with onboard presentations by the ship’s naturalists reinforcing the sightings and experiences to be had during the exciting shore excursions. Observing how the topography and wildlife varies
from island to island proves endlessly fascinating. The biodiverse Ecuadoran islands feature a staggering variety of flora and fauna, some, such as Galápagos finches, unique to the area. Common sightings range from the various species of iguana and booby seabirds to sea lions, frigate birds and Sally Lightfoot crab. Onshore sightings are remarkably unhurried, the
wildlife being so relaxed around visitors. Most cruises start from Santa Cruz island, whose
attractions include the resident giant tortoises and Charles Darwin Research Station.