Tour Isla Española
A full-day expedition to one of the oldest and most emblematic islands of the archipelago — waved albatrosses, blue-footed boobies, sea lions and two unforgettable snorkeling sessions.
Isla Española official video
A glimpse of the expedition
The ancient soul of the archipelago.
The tour to Isla Española is a complete day of walking, snorkeling and observing marine and terrestrial wildlife — a full-day expedition departing from San Cristóbal toward one of the oldest and most emblematic islands of the archipelago.
During the journey we explore Española's most representative sites, famous for the abundance of endemic seabirds — the waved albatross, blue-footed boobies and great frigatebirds. We also enjoy two snorkeling sessions in two of its richest marine zones: Islote Tortuga and Gardner Bay, swimming alongside sea turtles, tropical fish and playful sea lions.
- Two snorkeling sessions
- Interpretive walk at Gardner Bay
- Waved albatross colony (in season)
- Swim with juvenile sea lions
- Lunch served on board
- Full day · small group
The itinerary.
An unhurried rhythm — sail, walk, swim, eat, observe. Itineraries may adjust slightly based on sea conditions and Galápagos National Park rotation.
- 7:00 AM
Meeting & departure
We meet at our operations office at 7:00 AM. Navigation to Española Island takes between 1h45 and 2 hours, depending on sea and weather conditions.
- Morning
Punta Ceballos — Interpretive walk
Upon arrival at Punta Ceballos we take a beach walk to observe waved albatrosses (in season), blue-footed boobies, swallow-tailed gulls, marine iguanas and a colony of sea lions resting on the shore.
- Late morning
Islote Tortuga — First snorkel
After the walk, we sail to Islote Tortuga for the first snorkeling session in crystalline water over rocky bottoms — sea turtles, rays, reef fish and white-tip reef sharks are often spotted here.
- Midday
Playa Manzanillo — Second snorkel
We visit Playa Manzanillo for a second snorkeling session, ideal for swimming alongside playful juvenile sea lions, tropical fish and, occasionally, green sea turtles.
- Afternoon
Lunch on board & relax
After the water activities, a full lunch is served on board with drinks and snacks. The return navigation is a chance to relax and enjoy the open seascape.
- Late afternoon
Return to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
The final navigation back to port takes around 2 hours. Arrival in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is in the late afternoon.
The residents of Española.
Española is one of the most biodiverse islands in the archipelago — the only nesting site of the waved albatross and a sanctuary for endemic seabirds and marine life.
Moments from Española.
Everything taken care of.
A single all-inclusive expedition — you arrive at the dock, we handle the rest.
- Certified bilingual guide (English – Spanish)
- Wetsuit / neoprene
- Full snorkeling equipment
- Towel & additional snacks
- Full meals on board (snacks, drinks & lunch — chicken, fish or vegetarian/vegan)
- Fresh drinking water
Recommendations for the day.
Biodegradable sunscreen
Reef-safe SPF for a full day under the equatorial sun.
Reusable water bottle
We refill it with fresh water throughout the day.
Motion-sickness pills
Recommended — the crossing to Española is around 2 hours of open sea.
Jacket or poncho
For sea breeze and occasional rain during navigation.
Comfortable shoes
Closed shoes for the rocky terrain at Gardner Bay.
Prescription mask
Bring your own snorkel mask if you require optical correction.
A 12-meter vessel built for the open day.
Twin high-performance outboard engines, shaded seating, a snorkeling deck and a small crew of captain, co-captain and certified naturalist guide. Certified by the Armada del Ecuador and maintained to the highest safety standards.
The wild heart of Galápagos, in a single day.
Small groups have departures year-round from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. Reserve directly with our family — no third-party agencies.