Yacht Isabela II Galapagos Review: A Natural Selection Trip

So, you are seriously looking at a Galapagos trip, right? I mean, it’s pretty much a place that so many people dream about visiting. It’s almost a world apart, and frankly, choosing how you see it is a big decision. We decided on the Yacht Isabela II for its ‘Natural Selection Journey,’ which basically runs from a Friday to a Thursday. Honestly, picking a smaller boat felt like the right move, you know, for a more up-close experience. This boat holds just 40 guests, so it’s a bit more of a personal feel from the start. What you really want to know is what it’s actually like, so let’s get into it.

First Impressions and Onboard Atmosphere

Okay, so stepping onto the Yacht Isabela II is a little different from what you might picture. It’s not one of those huge, impersonal cruise liners; actually, it feels more like a large, private expedition vessel. In a way, the size is just perfect because you start to recognize everyone pretty quickly, which is nice. The common areas are, like, really welcoming. There is a main lounge that’s honestly a great spot to relax after an excursion, and you can sort of grab a drink and chat about the day’s sightings. There is also a library, which is surprisingly well-stocked with books about the islands and wildlife. The sun deck is probably the best place on the boat, to be honest. It has these loungers, and it’s just the place to be when the ship is moving between islands, I mean, you get these incredible open-ocean views. At the end of the day, the vibe is very relaxed and focused on learning, not on late-night parties and stuff like that. The crew, by the way, remembers your name almost instantly, which just adds to that feeling of being well looked after.

The ‘Natural Selection’ Route: A Week of Wonders

Alright, this Friday to Thursday route, well, it’s really something else. It pretty much focuses on the southern islands, which are apparently some of the oldest in the archipelago. Your week begins on Friday, and after you board in the afternoon, you are off to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Obviously, this is where you first see the giant tortoises, and it kind of sets the stage for the whole week. Then Saturday hits, and you’re at Floreana Island, which is steeped in history. You get to visit Post Office Bay, which is this old wooden barrel where sailors used to leave mail; it’s honestly a very cool tradition that you still participate in. Later, you are snorkeling near Champion Islet, and you might just swim with some sea lions. Seriously, it’s just as amazing as it sounds.

By Sunday, you are at Española Island, and frankly, this was a huge highlight. The morning is at Punta Suarez, and I mean, it’s like stepping into a nature documentary. There are literally thousands of marine iguanas, and if you go during the right season, this is the only place to see the waved albatross. Their courtship dance is, you know, sort of clumsy but completely fascinating. The afternoon is spent at Gardner Bay, which has this incredible white sand beach just covered in sleeping sea lions. I mean, you just walk among them; it’s unbelievable. Monday takes you to San Cristobal Island, first to Punta Pitt where you can see three species of boobies, and then to the beautiful rock formations of Cerro Brujo. Each day is just so full, and it’s more or less a new island and a new experience every morning and afternoon. The pace is active but, at the end of the day, never feels too rushed.

Guidance, Wildlife Encounters, and Excursions

So, the guides are, in a way, the key to the whole thing. The Isabela II has these top-level naturalist guides, and honestly, their knowledge is incredible. They are not just pointing out animals; they are, like, telling you the whole story of the islands, the geology, and the conservation efforts. You are typically split into smaller groups for excursions, so you can always ask questions and hear what they’re saying. For instance, our guide could spot a well-camouflaged owl in a tree from the zodiac boat, something we definitely would have missed on our own. It’s that kind of expertise that makes a huge difference. The excursions themselves are really well-planned.

Most days, you will have a morning activity and an afternoon one. These are a mix of things, so you’re not just doing the same walk every day. You might be taking a panga ride—that’s just what they call the inflatable zodiac boats—along the cliffs, looking at birds. Or you could be kayaking in a calm cove while rays and turtles swim below you. Snorkeling is offered almost every day, and the gear they provide is pretty good. Getting in the water is, frankly, a must-do. You are swimming with playful sea lions, sea turtles, and so, so many colorful fish. As a matter of fact, the animals have no fear of humans, so they just go about their business right next to you. It’s a very surreal and humbling feeling, you know?

Cabin Comfort and Ship Cuisine

Now, let’s talk about where you’ll be living and eating for a week. The cabins on the Isabela II are, you know, very comfortable and practical. They aren’t massive suites, but they have everything you need, and they’re kept incredibly clean. We stayed in a Classic Cabin on the main deck, and it had a picture window, so you could just lie in bed and watch the ocean go by. There’s a good amount of storage space for your clothes and gear, and the bathrooms are surprisingly spacious. Basically, it’s a very cozy home base to come back to after a day of exploring. You really do feel refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

And the food? To be honest, the food was a really pleasant surprise. Breakfast and lunch are typically buffets, and there’s a huge variety. I mean, you can get everything from local Ecuadorian dishes to more international fare. They always have fresh fruit, salads, and several hot options. Dinner is usually a plated, multi-course meal, and it’s served in the main dining room. The quality is honestly top-notch. It’s not overly fancy, but it’s delicious and well-prepared. The crew is also amazing at handling dietary restrictions. You just tell them on your first day, and they will, like, go out of their way to make sure you have great meals that fit your needs. There’s a 24-hour coffee station too, which is just a little thing, but it’s actually perfect for those early morning starts.

Who Is This Trip For? Some Final Thoughts

So, who would really love this specific trip on the Isabela II? Well, if you are a traveler who is genuinely curious about nature and wildlife, this is absolutely for you. It’s pretty much designed for people who want to learn and experience the islands in a meaningful way. It tends to attract a mix of people, from couples of all ages to families with older children who have an interest in science. Because the excursions involve walking on uneven terrain and getting in and out of zodiacs, you do need to have a moderate level of mobility. It’s not super strenuous, but it’s definitely an active vacation. If you’re looking for a party cruise with a casino and nightly shows, this is, frankly, not it. The evening entertainment is more like a briefing on the next day’s wildlife and maybe a documentary in the lounge. For us, that was perfect. The focus is completely on the destination, which is what the Galapagos deserves.

At the end of the day, this trip isn’t just a vacation; it’s a real-deal expedition. You leave feeling like you’ve actually connected with one of the most unique places on Earth, and you have a much deeper appreciation for the natural world. It’s a feeling that, honestly, sticks with you.

• Intimate Setting: With just 40 guests, you get a much more personal and less crowded experience.
• Expert Guides: The level of knowledge and passion from the naturalist guides is a huge part of what makes the trip special.
• Southern Itinerary: The ‘Natural Selection’ route takes you to iconic and wildlife-rich islands like Española and Floreana.
• Active Days: Be prepared for daily activities like hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking, which let you see the islands from different perspectives.
• Comfort and Cuisine: The onboard experience is very comfortable, with clean cabins and surprisingly delicious food that can be tailored to your needs.

Read our full review: Yacht Isabela II Natural Selection Journey Full Review and Details

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