National Geographic has a number of small ships that feature Galapagos expeditions, Galapagos and Peru expeditions, Galapagos Photography Expeditions, and Galapagos Family Odyssey Expeditions. Depending on the expedition, National Geographic sailings take place aboard National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Endeavour, National Geographic Islander, National Geographic Sea Bird, and National Geographic Seal Lion.
Family Expeditions take place aboard National Geographic Endeavour. Endeavour has 56 cabins that accommodate 96 guests. The ship features a spa, sauna, fitness center, library, gift shop, a lounge and bar, swimming pool, laundry, and Internet access. Guests also have access to a wellness specialist and there is a full-time doctor onboard.
The Galapagos Family Odyssey is a 10-day adventure that features the following itinerary:
Day 1 — U.S./Guayaquil, Ecuador: Depart for Guayaquil and upon arrival, transfer to hotel.
Day 2 — Guayaquil/Galápagos: Fly to the Galápagos Islands and board the expedition ship. During lunch, sail to North Seymour Island for an introduction to the diverse wildlife of the islands. Afternoon, walk along the sandy shoreline looking for land iguanas, sea lions, and rare birds.
Days 3 through 7 — Exploring Galápagos
Day 9 — Galápagos/Guayaquil
After breakfast, disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The evening is at your leisure.
Day 10 — Guayaquil/U.S
During the family expedition, families will explore Isla Bartolome, North Seymour Islet, Isla Santiagio, Genovesa Island, Isla Santa Cruz, Isla Isabela, Isla Fernandina, Isla Floreana, Sombrero Chino Islet, Rabida Island, San Cristobal Island, and Isla Espanola. An expedition team consisting of naturalists and regional specialists will “share their knowledge and insights into wildlife, landscapes, and local culture.”
Please note that family expeditions also take place aboard National Geographic Islander. Costs are slightly higher for Islander. Expedition costs are as follows:
Category 1: $5,320
Category 1: $5,980
Category 1: $6,590
Category 1: $6,990
Category 1: $8,450
To book a family expedition cruise aboard National Geographic Endeavour or Islander, visit the official National Geographic Expeditions website at www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com.
Source: National Geographic Expeditions, www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com