The Galápagos Islands & Ecuador
July 12-22, 2010
Faculty: to be announced
Price: Cabin suites starting at $6,395 per adult, double occupancy, land/cruise program
Special pricing available for children, teens and triples
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Registration is Open |
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Overview
We invite you to share a sea adventure with your family in the extraordinary natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos Islands are indeed a land of legend, a magical place where we may walk alongside giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, explore underground lava tubes and swim safely among sharks and sea lions-adventures that will remain with you and your family for the rest of your lives. Each day offers several face-to-face encounters-no other place on earth affords such close access to wildlife, for none of the animals or birds has learned to fear man.
Our "floating classroom" for this voyage is the 100-passenger M/V Galápagos Explorer II, an ideal expedition ship that combines comfortable cruising with several recreational options. The Explorer's outstanding staff of resident naturalists is specially trained to work with children as well as adults.
Our journey begins and ends in the thriving port city of Guayaquil, where the riverbank Malecón has been transformed into a sparkling pedestrian walkway replete with museums, shops, monuments and caf&eactute;s. We look forward to your joining us in an exploration of the Galápagos Islands and their abundant wildlife that so inspired Charles Darwin.
Program Highlights
- Guayaquil-Explore Ecuador's thriving port city of Guayaquil, where the riverbank Malecón has been transformed into a sparkling pedestrian walkway replete with museums, shops, monuments and cafés.
- Seven-night cruise aboard the M/V Galápagos Explorer II-Enjoy the magnificent experience of the Galápagos aboard the M/V Galápagos Explorer II, the most elegant of the vessels cruising the Galápagos waters. Designed to provide both comfort and scientific information to 100 passengers visiting the Galápagos National Park, this vessel travels to the remotest islands of the archipelago. The ship's facilities include a naturalist and research center, conference center, boutique, laundry service, solarium, wildlife observation deck, piano bar and Jacuzzi.
Fernandina Island-Fernandina Island may be rated as one of the most pristine islands in the world due to the absence of introduced mammals.- Isabela Island-The largest of all the islands, Isabela Island is made up of six large shield volcanoes fused into one island. The highest point in the Galápagos is found here at Wolf Volcano (1,707m; 5,600ft).
- Española Island-The most southeastern island is quite eroded, with an amazing cliff-side landscape. Wildlife highlights of the island include Galápagos sea lions, lava lizards, Nazca (masked) boobies, blue-footed boobies, red and black marine iguanas, Darwin's finches and yellow warblers.
Accommodations
Oro Verde Hotel-Strategically located in the downtown commercial and banking heart of the city, the hotel is only eight minutes from the José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport. Oro Verde Hotel offers 230 luxury rooms, three restaurants, bar, delicatessen, room service, a luxurious executive floor, swimming pool, fitness and business center, casino and shops.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II-The M/V Galápagos Explorer II is an all-suite ship and considered one of the best ships in the Galápagos, with the largest cabins. Each of the 52 spacious air-conditioned cabins has a sitting area in addition to a sleeping area and features amenities such as in-cabin safety deposit box, mini-refrigerator, TV with VCR, personal hair dryer and telephone with international communications abilities. The private bath has a marble vanity and hairdryer. All cabins can accommodate three people.
^ back to topMeals
All breakfasts, seven lunches, nine dinners.
^ back to topFaculty
Reginald H. Garrett is Professor of Biology at the University of Virginia. His research interests are focused within biochemistry and molecular biology; he has taught biochemistry for over 40 years. He is the author, with his colleague, Charles Grisham, of a widely used textbook, Biochemistry, the fourth edition of which was published in 2009. Reg also taught marine invertebrate zoology and coral reef ecology for 20 years in the Bahamas and Mexico. In addition, he has brought science to non-science majors through his course, Principles of Nutrition. Reg has traveled extensively and served as Academic Dean for the spring, 2009 Semester At Sea voyage that circled the globe. The theme of this voyage was Migrations and addressed the human odyssey that populated the planet from our origins in Africa. He has been a Fulbright Senior Lecturer (Vienna, Austria: 1975) and a visiting scientist in genetics at Cambridge University (1976). In 1983, Reg returned to Cambridge as Thomas Jefferson Visiting Fellow in Downing College. In 2003, Reg was Professeur Invité at the University of Toulouse (France) and the CNRS Institute of Pharmacology and Structural Biology.
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Monday, July 12
USA / Guayaquil
Depart Miami to Guayaquil, Ecuador. Transfer to hotel.
Oro Verde Hotel (Meals aloft)
Day 2 - Tuesday, July 13
Guayaquil
Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador, is a vibrant metropolis on the Guayas River delta, with imposing buildings and beautiful baronial mansions. A city tour introduces us to this bustling port's colonial heart and its sparkling waterfront. Malecón 2000 is the jewel in the crown of Guayaquil. Running parallel to the Guayas River, the Malecón is home to hundreds of cafés, monuments and shops. You can buy embroidered fabrics, tagua wood or leather goods. Plazas and fountains, an antique Ecuadorian train, skating and games for children are all here. Explore the fortress, complete with cannons that defended Guayaquil against pirate attacks long ago. We'll visit the Municipal Museum, which showcases gold and archaeological collections. Gather for a welcome dinner this evening.
Oro Verde Hotel (B, D)
Day 3 - Wednesday, July 14
Guayaquil / San Cristobal Island
The Galápagos archipelago is renowned for its unique and fearless wildlife. Here, we can swim with sea lions, float eye-to-eye with penguins and stand beside a blue-footed booby as it feeds its young. The barren and volcanic landscape is peerless in its haunting beauty. Even novice photographers will come home with photos to brag about.
This morning, fly to the Galápagos to begin the cruise, arriving on San Cristobal, easternmost of the Galápagos Islands. Your seagoing home is the M/V Galápagos Explorer II, a 293-foot, first-class oceangoing cruise ship that carries 100 passengers. Comfortable cabins feature air conditioning, private bathrooms and a small sitting area. Experienced naturalists lead shore expeditions to seek out wildlife and help you learn about the fascinating natural history of these volcanic islands. When you're not exploring, you and your children can enjoy the ship's pool, solarium and reading room without experiencing the motion of a smaller vessel.Your first day in Galápagos you'll visit one location near San Cristobal Island. After a wet landing at Cerro Brujo, you'll go to the beach for swimming and snorkeling activities. You can see blue-footed boobies, brown pelicans, Darwin's finches and yellow warblers.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 4 - Thursday, July 15
Espanola Island (Hood Island)
This morning visit Hood Island, the southernmost island of the archipelago. Because of its isolation, the island has a large population of indigenous wildlife. We will explore Punta Suarez, one of the most spectacular spots in the Galápagos, where you'll look for sea lions surfing the breaking waves and groups of iguanas basking in the sun. Further inland, masked and blue-footed boobies nest beside the trails.
This afternoon, visit Gardner Bay, a 1km-long beach that is among the most magnificent in all Galápagos. It is home to many sea lion colonies and the turquoise water makes a beautiful contrast to the white sand that consists of shell dust. Mockingbirds fight for their territory and inspect the backpacks of tourists. About 50m off there is a rock where we can encounter tropical fish and rays while snorkeling. Even more spectacular is the Gardner Rock, which can be reached by dinghy. It is home to white-tipped reef shark, cactus finch and other colorful sea dwellers and is very popular for snorkeling.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 5 - Friday, July 16
Santa Cruz Island (Charles Darwin Research Station) / Rabida Island
The Charles Darwin Research station in Puerto Ayora is staffed with international scientists conducting biological research and conservation projects. Here, we can admire and photograph the giant tortoises that are part of the breeding program. An impressive prickly-pear cactus forest tempts us to come close. There should be time for shopping and strolling through Puerto Ayora, perhaps writing postcards or visiting an Internet café.
This afternoon visit Rabida Island, a small island covered by dry and coastal vegetation. Rabida contains the largest variety of lava types, red being the dominant color. A saltwater lagoon provides occasional sightings of flamingos. While the beach holds a large sea lion colony, fur seals also may be seen here. Red sands and teal waters characterize this island. Sea lions cover the waterfront, and a short walk to the top of the trail provides us with a wonderful view of the clear waters and volcanic peaks.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 6 - Saturday, July 17
Santa Cruz Island
This morning brings a wet landing at Las Bachas on a beach made of decomposed coral, which makes it white and soft, a favorite site for nesting sea turtles. A remnant of the U.S. presence from World War II, a floating pier, is found here as well. In interior lagoons, we may find flamingos. There is also a wonderful chance to snorkel here from the beach.
This afternoon, we visit Dragon Hill, a new visitors center opened by the Galápagos Islands National Park Administration. After a dry landing at a dock, we'll walk to a hypersalinic (saltier than the ocean) lagoon behind the beach, often frequented by flamingos, common stilts, pintail ducks and other species of birds. A short walk uphill rewards us with a great view of the bay and a nesting site of land iguana, rarer than the marine iguanas.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 7 - Sunday, July 18
Bartholome Island / James (Santiago) Island
This morning visit Bartholome, an island of varied volcanic formations with a 350-foot summit and a fabulous 360° view. Depending upon the weather, we may be able to spot five other islands, one of the most spectacular views of the archipelago. We'll make a wet landing in a cove to see a small colony of Galápagos penguins-the only penguins north of the equator.
This afternoon we'll visit Puerto Egas on James (Santiago) Island. The landing is on a black beach with eroded rock formations in the background. Intertidal pools are home to a variety of invertebrate organisms. Land iguanas are scattered around feeding on exposed algae while oyster catchers try to capture sally lightfoot crabs.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 8 - Monday, July 19
Fernandina Island / Isabela Island
On the youngest and westernmost island in the Galápagos, we'll land at Punta Espinoza, a narrow stretch of land where some of the most unusual Galápagos species can be seen. While the panga driver skillfully eludes the reef to reach the landing site near a small mangrove forest, look for penguins diving off the rocks into the water. Sally lightfoot crabs disperse on the lava near the shore and herons, sandpipers and wimbrels explore the mangrove roots. Marine iguanas congregate in larger groups here than on any other island. They are everywhere: basking in the sand, swimming near the shore, grazing on the exposed seaweed in the lava and blocking the way at the landing dock. This is one of the few places where we have the opportunity while snorkeling to watch these lizards feed underwater.
This afternoon we visit the largest of the Galápagos islands, Isabela, composed of six shield volcanoes merged into a single land mass. Wolf Volcano on Isabela is the highest point in the archipelago. The Galápagos Explorer II is one of only a few boats able to make the long journey from the central islands to the visitor sites on the western side of Isabela. The trip is more than worthwhile, for the unique species that occur only in this part of the archipelago, and because the landscape, with massive volcanoes silhouetted against the sky, offers a striking contrast to the lower-lying islands of the east.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 9 - Tuesday, July 20
North Seymour Island / Santa Cruz Island
This morning visit North Seymour, a small flat island with a long sandy stretch where sea lions and marine iguanas hang out next to a surf wave. The interior of the island has a palo santo and small opuntia cactus forest with blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigate bird colonies.
We drive to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to view the giant tortoises roaming in their natural habitat. The lush vegetation on this island includes the scalesia forest and birds such as the vermilion flycatcher, tree finches and the elusive woodpecker finch. We also have an exciting opportunity to go underground, exploring dormant lava tubes.
M/V Galápagos Explorer II (B, L, D)
Day 10 - Wednesday, July 21
San Cristobal Island / Guayaquil
This morning we return to San Cristobal Island, where we reluctantly disembark the M/V Galápagos Explorer II, our heads filled with Galápagos dreams. We fly back to Guayaquil and gather tonight for a farewell dinner to recount our adventures.
Oro Verde Hotel (B, D)
Day 11 - Thursday, July 22
Guayaquil / USA
A morning transfer takes us to the international airport for a return flight from Guayaquil to the U.S. and connections home.
(B)
What to Expect
This program has been exclusively designed for the University of Virginia alumni, family, children and friends who would enjoy exploring the Galápagos Islands and learning about its natural history aboard the M/V Galápagos Explorer II, and also visiting fine cities and museums in Ecuador. This is a moderately active program. In the Galápagos, walks are approximately one to two miles long (sometimes over uneven and rocky terrain) at a leisurely pace suitable for wildlife observation. There will be wet landings on many islands. Dinghy rides along the coast and shorter walks are available for passengers not wanting to go on longer and more challenging walks. There are opportunities for swimming and snorkeling (snorkeling equipment is available for rent aboard the M/V Galápagos Explorer II). Temperatures range between the 70s and 90s F in the Galápagos. Guayaquil is at sea level. Travel is by regular scheduled jet aircraft, motor coach, air-conditioned ship and "Zodiac"-type dinghies.
Program Fees
Single Supplement: 80 to 100 percent of the double cabin land/cruise rate, and is limited in availability.
Airfare: International airfare to Guayaquil and return to the U.S. is not included in the land/cruise rates. Sample airfare Miami/Guayaquil/Miami is approximately $650 (as of July 2009 and subject to change). However, the airfare to the Galápagos is included in the program costs (see chart).
Land/Cruise Rates* (per person double occupancy) |
Adults |
Children (7–17 years old) |
Third Person (applies to the third person sharing the cabin or room, adult or child 12 and over) |
Third Person (applies to the third person sharing the cabin or room if child under 12) |
Classic Suite |
$6,395 |
$5,795 |
$300 less |
$400 less |
Premium Suite |
$6,795 |
$6,195 |
$300 less |
$400 less |
Deluxe Balcony Suite |
$7,465 |
$6,865 |
$300 less |
$400 less |
Renaissance Suite |
$7,830 |
$7,230 |
$300 less |
$400 less |
Price includes: Accommodations using five-star hotels in Guayaquil, a seven-night cruise aboard the deluxe M/V Galapagos Explorer II; airfare to the Galápagos (Guayaquil/Galápagos/Guayaquil); airport/hotel/pier group transfers; leadership including tour director throughout; all meals throughout the Galápagos cruise and meals on the mainland as specified in the itinerary; Galápagos National Park entrance fee; Ecuadorian transit control card; transportation by private motorcoach; transfers for group flights; entrance fees; baggage handling; basic gratuities to guides and drivers on mainland; coordination and administration.
Does not include: International air transportation to Guayaquil (quoted separately, please see above); custom shipboard gratuities; international departure tax from Ecuador; passport fees; meals not specified in the itinerary; dishes or beverages not included with meals; personal items such as laundry, fax or telephone calls, liquor, room service, excess baggage charges; individual transfers; medical expenses; travel insurance; optional extensions or deviations from the scheduled tour. Any increases in the in-tour airfare (included as part of the land program cost), airport taxes, security or fuel surcharges imposed after the initial pricing of this program are not included.
^ back to topHow To Register
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 866-765-2646. Or e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A deposit of $600 per person is required to reserve your spot. Final payment by check is due April 13, 2010.
Deposits can be made via Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
^ back to topGeneral Terms & Conditions
DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT: Deposits may be charged to a credit card. Final payment is due April 13, 2010, and must be paid by check payable to the operator Royal Adventures. Royal Adventures handles all bookings, ticketing, and invoicing. CST #2009579-40
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: Refunds, less a cancellation fee of $350 per person, are made if we are notified in writing on or before April 13, 2010. No refunds are made after that date. All cancellations must be made in writing. There are no refunds for unused meals, accommodations, or other trip features.
INSURANCE: We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance. An application for trip cancellation insurance will be available upon confirmation. Neither the University of Virginia Cavalier Travels nor Royal Adventures accept liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a non-refundable airline ticket or other expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour.
QUESTIONS: Please call or e-mail the University of Virginia Cavalier Travels at 866-765-2646 or 434-243-4984.; E-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu or call Briana Gerot, Royal Adventures 925-820-6260 or 800-453-4754.
RESPONSIBILTY: Royal Adventures (CST #2009579-40), its owners and employees act only as agents for the various independent suppliers and contractors providing transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurant and other services connected with this tour. Such travel and services are subject to the terms and conditions under which such accommodations, services and transportation are offered or provided, and University of Virginia and Royal Adventures and their respective, employees, agents, representatives, and assigns, accept no liability therefor. University of Virginia and Royal Adventures, assume no liability for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or other irregularity which may be caused by the defect of any aircraft or vehicle or the negligence or default of any company or person engaged in carrying out or performing any of the services involved. Additionally, responsibility is not accepted for losses, injury, damages or expenses of any kind due to sickness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature or other such causes. All services and accommodations are subject to the laws of the country in which they are provided. University of Virginia and Royal Adventures reserve the right to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their sole judgment, conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of the tour participants. They reserve the right to withdraw this tour without penalty. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour, or to substitute another qualified leader or special guest. Baggage and personal effects are the sole responsibility of the owners at all times. The price of the program is given in good faith based on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, security surcharge or fuel increases will be passed onto participants. Neither University of Virginia nor Royal Adventures accept the liability for any airline cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable airline ticket. The air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the passenger and the airline concerned. As part of the consideration and right to participate in this tour, each participant will be asked to sign a liability release.
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