Australian Geographic and Hurtigruten Expeditions

The Galápagos Islands offer almost limitless opportunities for discovery and adventure. You’ll learn all about the animals and ecology of the archipelago, and find out why conservation efforts are so important. The onboard Expedition Team know the Galápagos better than anyone else, having worked here for many years. Our ship, Santa Cruz II, will take you to some off-the-beaten track destinations where you can try sea kayaking,SUP boarding, reef snorkelling and more.

Arguably, no other place on Earth can compete with the Galápagos Islands in terms of unique wildlife experiences. Not only are there many endemic species, but they have evolved without mammalian predators and are unafraid of humans. Each island harbours a variety of animals, and the surrounding seas heave with life.

Sometimes called a ‘living laboratory’, the remote Galápagos Islands are a unique example of pristine nature, giving us an insight into the very processes of life on Earth. It was here that naturalist Charles Darwin set foot in 1835, and the experience led him to write his ground-breaking book about evolution, On the Origin of Species.

Whenever weather and sea conditions allow, we’ll attempt landings via small explorer boat. Sites might include a scenic harbour, ruins from the whaling era, or penguin rookeries. Once ashore, the Expedition Team will guide you on where to go and what to see. You are free to walk around on your own, keeping a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.

On small boat cruises and landings ashore, we’ll bring you to see some of the most inspiring animals on earth who survive and thrive in their frozen desert home. Depending on the season, you may see whales feeding, seal pups playing, penguins mating or penguin chicks hatching. The Antarctic Peninsula is home to an estimated population of 12 million penguins. Observe them in their natural habitat, uninhibited and curious.

Antarctica is a land of superlatives: the coldest, driest, highest and most remote continent on Earth. Here, the elements rule and exploring this vast, white continent will seem daring and extreme to many. And that’s exactly why you’ll want to go. Great Antarctic explorers like Roald Amundsen have described the seventh continent as “mythic”, “otherworldly”, and “like a fairy tale” – because nothing compares to the Antarctic travel experience.