Cruise
A Small Ship Cruise Beyond the Ordinary – My Galapagos Adventure with Metropolitan Touring
Article and photography by Judi Cohen (Traveling Judi)
When I imagined visiting the Galapagos Islands, I thought I knew what to expect: stunning wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and the thrill of stepping into a world where nature reigns supreme. What I didn’t anticipate was how profoundly this trip would reshape my connection to the natural world—and to myself. This expedition was different from the ones I’d done in the Canadian Arctic, Antarctic, Greenland, and many other places.
Arrival: A First Glimpse of Paradise
The journey with Metropolitan Touring began on Baltra Island, where I was greeted by a playful sea lion lounging on the dock, a vibrant Sally Lightfoot crab scuttling nearby, and the unrelenting equatorial sun. These initial encounters set the tone for what would be a week of awe-inspiring sights and the closest encounters with nature I’ve ever experienced.
The Wildlife: Up Close and Personal
Iconic Encounters
The Galapagos is synonymous with wildlife, and it did not disappoint. Over the course of the trip, I checked off 12 of the “Big 15” species unique to the islands, including the endearing blue-footed booby, the prehistoric-looking marine iguana, a handful of Galapagos penguins, and the lumbering Galapagos giant tortoise. What struck me most was how unafraid the animals were. Sea lions frolicked mere feet away, and curious birds seemed to study us as much as we studied them.
A Lesson in Coexistence
The absence of natural predators has made the wildlife here remarkably approachable. This dynamic creates a humbling experience for visitors, where the onus is on us to respect their space. Watching a Galapagos frigatebird overhead or a flamingo delicately wade through a lagoon felt like witnessing nature at its most unspoiled.
The Islands: A World Apart
Our six-night itinerary, “Darwin’s Legacy: Navigating the Diverse South-Western Volcanic Archipelago,” included visits to five islands, starting and ending on Baltra Island. It was here that we embarked and disembarked from our ship, La Pinta.
The Galapagos: A UNESCO World Treasure
The Galapagos Islands are often described as “otherworldly,” and it’s easy to see why. Located 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, this volcanic archipelago is a living museum of evolution. Designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1978, nearly all the land and the surrounding 50,000-square-mile marine reserve are protected as part of Ecuador’s commitment to preserving this delicate ecosystem.
Strict regulations by the Galapagos National Park Authority (GNPA) limit visitor impact. Ships like La Pinta carry no more than 100 passengers, and shore excursions are capped at 20 people per guide. These measures not only protect the islands’ fragile habitats but also create an intimate experience for travelers. There’s no risk of mega-ships disrupting the pristine landscapes or overwhelming the wildlife.
We visited the islands of North Seymour, Isabela, Rábida, Santa Cruz, and Floreana, each with its own personality. We walked, hiked, swam, snorkeled, and kayaked, as well as enjoyed panga and glass-bottom boat excursions. The geology, flora, and fauna were unique to each island—and even parts of an island. For example, the 180-year-old Galapagos giant tortoises roamed freely in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, exhibiting no fear of our presence. At the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora on the same island, giant tortoises are protected in enclosures to aid in their conservation and repopulation.
The volcanic landscapes of Fernandina felt like stepping onto another planet, including the carpet of dark-colored marine iguanas below our feet as we carefully walked on the black lava beaches. This diversity ensured that every day brought something new and unexpected.
The Challenges: Equatorial Heat and a Grueling Pace
The Galapagos sun is as intense as its wildlife is charming. In December, temperatures hovered in the high 70s to mid-80s, with the sun’s rays making it feel much hotter. Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and plenty of water are a must.
Exploration in the Galapagos is not for the faint of heart. Days were packed with activities—hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking—often under the blazing sun. While exhilarating, the schedule was physically demanding. By evening, I found myself collapsing into bed, utterly exhausted.
The Unexpected Delights
One of the quirkiest stops was Post Office Bay on Floreana Island. Here, a wooden barrel serves as an informal post office where travelers leave postcards for others to hand-deliver. I took two postcards addressed to Toronto for delivery and left two postcards of my own for my grandchildren in Toronto and New York City.
Despite the busy schedule, there were moments of profound peace. Whether it was the sound of waves against the hull of our ship or the calls of birds and sea lions on the beaches, these were the moments I welcomed most.
Practicalities: Certified Guides and Strict Regulations
All activities were led by certified Galapagos National Park guides who shared insights that deepened my appreciation for the islands. Visitors cannot explore on their own; every excursion is guided to ensure both safety and the preservation of the environment. The Ecuadorian crew onboard introduced us to local dishes and traditions, adding authenticity to the experience.
Minimalist Luxury
Unlike traditional cruises, Galapagos ships prioritize exploration over indulgence. Don’t expect spas or extensive entertainment options. Instead, the focus is on the destination—and that’s exactly how it should be.
While La Pinta has a capacity of 48 passengers, our early December 2024 sailing hosted just 24 guests. This small ship felt more like a private yacht, offering personalized service and spacious public areas. All passenger cabins featured ocean-view fixed windows.
Metropolitan Touring has been sharing the wonders of Ecuador and the Galapagos for over 70 years. Their deep experience and local knowledge was evident from the moment we were met at Baltra Airport and transferred to our floating home for the next 6 nights. La Pinta was a comfortable and luxurious exploration platform with very attentive staff on the ship, and one of the finest expedition teams I’ve had the pleasure of cruising with. They created a perfect balance of adventure, fun, education and relaxation. My husband and I loved everything about our expedition experience on La Pinta.
The Takeaway: A World Worth Protecting
Visiting the Galapagos is more than a vacation; it’s a call to action. The fragile beauty underscores the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. The memories of turquoise waters, volcanic landscapes, and fearless wildlife will stay with me forever, but so will the responsibility to ensure these wonders endure for generations to come.
If you’re ready for an adventure that challenges, inspires, and transforms, the Galapagos is waiting.
