GALAPAGOS ISLANDS
WITH THE SISTERHOOD
Nine of the Best Islands
January 6 – January 17, 2026
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS WITH THE SISTERHOOD 2026
The Best of Nine Islands
SOLD OUT
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with The Sisterhood on our exclusive “Galapagos with The Sisterhood: The Best of Nine Islands” expedition! Set sail on January 6, 2026, aboard the MS Santa Cruz II, a small ship designed for intimate exploration with a maximum of just 90 passengers. This women-only journey is a unique opportunity to forge lifelong friendships while discovering the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. Remember, space is limited and books up fast, so be sure to secure your spot on this expedition voyage that is always sold out early.
Our journey begins in the enchanting Andean foothills of Quito, Ecuador. Here, you’ll have the chance to wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with colonial charm. Meet your fellow Sisters at an informal gathering, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. The following day, we’ll stand with one foot in each hemisphere at the iconic ‘Middle of the World City,’ capturing memories to last a lifetime.
From Quito, we’ll take a short flight to Baltra Island, where the MS Santa Cruz II awaits. Our expedition kicks off with a visit to Santa Cruz’s Dragon Hill, followed by days filled with snorkeling alongside green sea turtles, marveling at the unique wildlife of Fernandina, and learning about giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station. Each island offers its own breathtaking landscapes and incredible encounters with nature, ensuring every moment of this trip is both educational and awe-inspiring.
Whether you’re exploring the red sands of Rábida Island, snorkeling at Pinnacle Rock on Bartolomé Island, or climbing Prince Philip’s Steps on Genovesa Island, this expedition promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With activities like kayaking, hiking, and glass-bottom boat tours, there’s something for everyone. Join us for this exceptional journey through the Galapagos and create memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Galápagos Islands Cruise | Nine of the Best Isles
- Western and Northern Route -
Visit nine of the most alluring Galápagos Islands.
See the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, from giant tortoises to marine iguanas as you visit these islands:
- Baltra
- Santa Cruz
- Isabela
- Fernandina
- Floreana
- Santiago
- Rábida
- Bartolomé
- Genovesa
Learn about these incredible islands and Charles Darwin’s research from your expert Expedition Team, comprised of local naturalist guides.
MS Santa Cruz II
When you are exploring the Galápagos islands with us onboard the MS Santa Cruz II, you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in high quality surroundings. The small size – with a guest capacity of maximum of 90 allows for a cozy yet classy environment. You´ll easily feel at home on board.
With carbon-neutral operations, MS Santa Cruz II is environmentally-sustainable and socially conscious with the local community.
This sleek, spacious ship has a layout that allows you to enjoy your cruise from start to finish. Enjoy delicious food in the elegant restaurant, increase your knowledge of the Galápagos Islands with your fellow travelers in the Science Center, or maybe mingle out on the multiple decks.
While exploring the Galápagos, you’ll have the ability to actively engage in activities and encounters. After a day in Darwin’s footsteps, you will enjoy coming home to a casual atmosphere with the best service there is. MS Santa Cruz II’s amenities easily appeal to all world explorers.
DECK PLANS
MS Santa Cruz II Cabins
Category DS (Darwin Suite – Deck 4)
Category EH – Deck 2) & Category EE - Deck 3)
ROUTE MAP
OUR ITINERARY
January 6, 2026
Our journey begins on the Equator in the lush Andean foothills. At 9,350 feet, Quito is the second-highest capital city in the world, and its main draw is the exquisite Old Town, which was founded on an ancient Inca settlement.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with well-preserved colonial architecture, including colorful plazas, magnificent churches, and stately monuments. Settle into our hotel and this evening, meet your Group Leader and new Sisters at an informal gathering at the hotel. (No meals are included today)
January 7, 2026
Today, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of Quito’s remarkable Old Town, one of the largest and best-preserved colonial-era quarters in South America. Wander through cobblestone streets as you admire the architecture and sample delicious chocolate made from the finest Ecuadorian cacao along the way.
Next, we’ll head to the iconic ‘Middle of the World City’, located around 16 miles north of Quito. After lunch, we’ll visit the famous monument that delineates the imaginary line that is the Equator. Have your camera ready to capture the moment you stand with one foot in each hemisphere. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included today)
January 8, 2026
As our South America land adventure draws to a close, it is time to embark on the next stage of our journey. After breakfast, a short flight will take us to Baltra Island, a part of the spectacular Galápagos Archipelago. We’ll be transferred to the port, where your comfortable expedition ship, MS Santa Cruz II awaits us.
We’ll begin our exploration of the Galápagos Islands in the afternoon by following the north shore of Santa Cruz to the fascinating landscapes of Cerro Dragón, or Dragon Hill, where we’ll land. On the first part of our walk, we’ll pass a brackish lagoon that is frequented by shorebirds and American flamingos. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago, as well as our first chance to encounter some land iguanas.
January 9, 2026
We’ll start our day at Punta Vicente Roca on the northwestern tip of Isabela Island. After breakfast, we’ll explore the coast on a panga boat and your naturalist guides will teach you about the dramatic geology of the area.
This site is a nesting place for several bird species, so look out for flightless cormorants, Galápagos penguins, and boobies. Weather permitting, you can snorkel beside the cliffs, where you might find green sea turtles, oceanic sunfish, and fur seals.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Fernandina, an island with a unique ecology and a large population of marine iguanas. Watch the coastline for sea lions, Sally Lightfoot crabs, hawks, and penguins.
January 10, 2026
Today, we’ll explore Santa Cruz Island. In the morning, we’ll disembark at Puerto Ayora to visit the Charles Darwin Research Station.
At this giant tortoise breeding center, you can see recently hatched tortoises and Darwin’s famous finches – the birds he used as a basis for his theory of evolution by natural selection. There’s also an impressive forest of prickly pear cacti that is home to many land birds.
Enjoy a cooler climate over lunch in the lush highlands, where giant tortoises shuffle about munching on grass and wallowing in pools.
You’ll also have time for another activity, including mountain biking or visiting a sugar plantation.
January 11, 2026
After breakfast, enjoy a panga boat ride through the channels on Floreana’s north shore before taking in the incredible views of the island from Baroness Cove. Later, we land at Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has served as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries.
After lunch, explore the wonders around Champion Islet in a panga boat or aboard our glass-bottom boat. This is one of the best snorkeling spots in the archipelago.
From there, we head to Cormorant Point, where we’ll walk from an olivine-crystal beach to a brackish lagoon. Along the way, common sights include American flamingos, pintail ducks, and more.
January 12, 2026
Relax on board while we anchor off Baltra Island. After four days of exploring the unique natural environments of the Galápagos, have a relaxation day so you can recharge your batteries for the days ahead. Make use of the many onboard facilities, flick through the books in the library, or exercise in the gym – it’s up to you.
In the afternoon, we’ll land at Las Bachas beach, located on the northern shore of Santa Cruz Island. This glorious white beach with turquoise waters is a great place to spot iconic Galápagos wildlife like flamingos and sea turtles. Swim or snorkel before heading back to the ship for an expedition briefing about the following day.
January 13, 2026
Today, we’ll explore Santiago Island’s pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. Take in the impressive cliffs of Buccaneer Cove on the northwest coast, home to a large number of marine birds and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the scenery through a range of water activities and marvel at fantastic rock formations such as ‘Elephant Rock’ and ‘The Bishop’.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Puerto Egas, one of the best visitor sites on the island. You’ll have the opportunity to see a colony of Galápagos fur seals and exotic birdlife on an excursion. Or, you can swim or snorkel along the rocky shorelines, typically in the company of marine turtles.
January 14, 2026
Our day starts on tiny Rábida Island, located off the southern shore of Santiago Island. Take a thrilling panga ride along the coast to explore the island’s mesmerizing, red-colored beach. Soak up the sights and sounds of a sea lion colony and keep an eye out for marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers, and several species of Darwin’s finches.
In the afternoon, we’ll sail to the golden sands of Bartolomé Island, dominated by the imposing Pinnacle Rock. Swim or snorkel at the beach here or discover colorful marine life riding in our glass-bottom boat. You may even spot some Galápagos penguins on the shore. Hike up to the summit of the island for fantastic views.
January 15, 2026
Today, we’ll explore Genovesa Island. The morning starts with a steep but short climb (only 90 feet) up Prince Philip’s Steps – otherwise known as El Barranco – to reach a flat and rocky plateau. Once there, you can walk along comfortably and look out for large colonies of Nazca boobies, red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds, and storm petrels. Afterward, or instead, hop into a kayak for an aquatic adventure.
In the afternoon, we’ll land at the beautiful beach that borders Darwin Bay for a swim. After this refreshing dip, take a stroll and observe hundreds of island birds. You can also swim, snorkel, kayak, or just take relax on the beach.
January 16, 2026
We start our last morning on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. A dry landing at a passenger wharf and a bus ride to the loftier region of the island will provide a final highlight of your expedition cruise: giant tortoises in the wild.
The windward slopes of the island are set aside as a reserve that’s home to two species of giant tortoise. These lush highlands also feature dense forests of Galápagos daisies, orchids and bromeliads.
After this visit we’ll transfer directly to the airport in Baltra for our flight to Quito, where the day and evening are yours for independent exploration and dining with your Sisters.
January 17, 2026
This morning, we’ll be transferred to the Quito airport for our return flights home. (Breakfast included today)
Trip Inclusions
- 11 nights/12 days accommodations (hotel and ship)
- 33 Meals (11 Breakfasts, 10 Lunches, and 10 Dinners)
- Group flights in economy class between Quito and Baltra, and Baltra and Quito, including all taxes
- Two nights at our hotel in Quito before the expedition cruise, including breakfast and dinner on Day 2 and one night at our hotel after the expedition cruise.
- All transfers on arrival and departure day and between our hotel and the airports when embarking and disembarking our ship.
- Full-day excursion: Historic Quito and Middle of the World, including lunch, before our expedition cruise
- Galápagos Islands National Park admission fee
- Transit Control Card for the Galápagos Islands
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, onboard the ship
- All-inclusive beverage package onboard the ship
- Complimentary tea and coffee onboard the ship
- Crew Gratuities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
- Complimentary reusable water bottle
- Complimentary wetsuit rental
- Welcome and farewell cocktails onboard the ship
- In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
- Use of the Science Corner with library and microscope
- Use of the ship’s hot tubs and gym
- Escorted landings with panga boats
- Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment needed for the activities
- Sisterhood Travels Group Leader
- Sisterhood Travels Swag
CANCELLATION & DEPOSITS
In the event of a cancellation:
Before July 6th, 2025: Your deposit is refundable, less $750 per person.
After July 6th, 2025: Your full deposit is non-refundable and is not transferable to any other trip or person.
After September 6th, 2025: All payments and deposits are non-refundable and are not transferable to any other person.
PRICING & DEPOSITS
- Deposit Due At Time Of Booking
- Final Payment Due on or Before September 6, 2025
Category EH (Explorer Cabin – Deck 2)
Double Occupancy-
Deposit Amount:
$2475 per person
Category EE (Explorer Cabin – Deck 3)
Double Occupancy-
Deposit Amount:
$2610 per person
Category EH (Explorer Cabin – Deck 2)
Single Occupancy-
Deposit Amount:
$3530 per person
Category EE (Explorer Cabin – Deck 3)
Single Occupancy-
Deposit Amount:
$3730 per person
Category DS (Darwin Suite – Deck 4)
Double Occupancy-
Deposit Amount:
$3320 per person
important information
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
- There will be a maximum of 25 Sisters plus your Sisterhood Travels Group Leader. Roommate matching is available only in Category EH.
- International airfare is not included in your pricing. You will fly roundtrip Quito (UIO)
- You can arrive at any time on January 6, 2026, and depart at any time on January 17, 2026
- Check-in time at our arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm. Hotel name for Quito will be updated in Trip Plans when available later in 2025.
- All international flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before September 6, 2025. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
- Arrival transfers are provided only on January 6, 2026, from the Quito airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on January 17, 2026, from our hotel to the Quito airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
- Portions of the itinerary travel to high altitude areas. Quito is 9350 ft above sea level.
- There are no elevators onboard the ship.
- All excursions onboard the ship can be booked once you are on the ship. There is no pre-booking available.
- Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip, as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
- Travel Insurance is mandatory with a benefit of $500,000 for repatriation services and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email. You will be required to submit proof of your policy prior to final payment.
- We cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on this trip.
- There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
- Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational, weather, or logistical reasons.
- Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
- You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans”. You will need to download this app to your smart phone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.
Need a Roommate?
Cancellation & Refunds
Activity Level:
Moderate
This is a moderately paced itinerary that involves some longer days and more activities. Expect some early hotel departures, and limited time for day time rest and rejuvenation as the itineraries are designed to ensure that you see as much as possible in these wonderful destinations. This may include longer coach journeys and guests should be able to join a walking tour lasting 1-2 hours with stops possibly over uneven terrain. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.