Galapagos Odyssey with Silversea

December 12, 2024 for 9 nights, not hosted by MGA but it has a Silversea Director.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime to the enchanted Galapagos Islands, where every moment is an invitation to marvel at the wonders of our natural world. With “Galapagos: In the Footsteps of Darwin,” you are not just a traveler; you are an explorer stepping back in time, tracing the paths once taken by the legendary Charles Darwin. This immersive expedition is meticulously crafted for those who seek more than just a holiday—it is for the curious souls yearning to be in the heart of the action, eager to dive deep into the educational tapestry of this archipelago.

Through expert-led Zodiac landings twice a day, our knowledgeable local guides and naturalists bring you up close with the Galapagos’ exotic and endangered wildlife, sharing insightful lectures and invaluable local insights. They travel alongside you, ensuring each moment is enriched with context and understanding.

The Voyage: Your adventure begins with a two-night stay in Quito, immersing you in the cultural heartbeat of Ecuador before taking a flight to the Galapagos Islands. Here, you will embark on a 7-night small ship luxury cruise aboard the exquisite Silver Origin. With every detail thoughtfully considered, this all-inclusive voyage is designed to provide you with unparalleled experiences both on land and at sea.

When you step off our beautiful ships you step back into history, or into a hands-on experience or out on an adventure that will get your heart going. Lovers of art, architecture, music, nature, food, wine or simply relaxing, will be inspired by the outings and experiences we have curated to woo and wow you.

Discover the unparalleled beauty of the Galapagos Islands with MGA Travel, as we take you on a journey aboard the luxurious Silversea Origin. This all-inclusive cruise experience combines the thrill of exploration with the finest comforts and amenities, ensuring every moment of your journey is unforgettable.

All-Inclusive Onboard Benefits Silversea’s signature all-inclusive experience ensures that your every need is met with the utmost attention and care. Enjoy 24-hour gourmet dining, personalized butler service, and an array of entertainment options, all while sipping on premium beverages. With nearly one crew member for every guest, you are guaranteed a level of service that is second to none.

Staff & Services

  • Butler Services: Experience the pinnacle of luxury with butler services available in every suite.
  • 24-Hour Dining Service: Indulge in culinary delights around the clock, catered to your preferences.
  • Complimentary Transportation: Enjoy easy access to local towns in most ports with complimentary transportation.

Leisure Onboard

  • Diverse Cuisine: Choose from a variety of restaurants offering open-seating dining and diverse cuisine to satisfy every palate.
  • Beverages Throughout the Ship: Refresh yourself with beverages available in-suite and throughout the ship, including selected wines and spirits.
  • Onboard Entertainment: Engage in enriching activities and enjoy superb entertainment tailored to your journey.
  • Spa and Fitness Center: Unwind and rejuvenate in the onboard spa and fitness center, designed to enhance your well-being.

Utilities & Amenities

  • Unlimited Free WiFi: Stay connected with unlimited free WiFi throughout your journey.
  • Onboard Gratuities: Enjoy a worry-free experience with onboard gratuities included.

The Silver Origin: A Voyage Like No Other The Silver Origin, Silversea’s first destination-specific ship, is a marvel of modern design and environmental consciousness. With the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the Galapagos, a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides, and 8 Zodiacs for exploration, your voyage is sure to be unparalleled.

  • All-Suite Accommodation: Relax in spacious suites, many featuring Horizon Balconies and all offering the luxury of butler service.
  • Sophisticated Interiors: Immerse yourself in the ship’s elegant design, inspired by the beauty of the Galapagos.
  • Interactive Basecamp: Engage with your destination in new and exciting ways at the ship’s interactive basecamp.
  • Ecuadorian-Inspired Cuisine: Savor the flavors of the region with cuisine that is as authentic as it is delicious.

Dining Options Aboard the Silver Origin

  • The Restaurant: Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Restaurant showcases the best of local cuisine alongside a diverse range of international selections.
  • The Grill: Enjoy al-fresco lunches by day and Silversea’s signature Hot Rocks dining experience by night at this popular on-board restaurant.

Join like-minded folks on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Galapagos Islands, where luxury, discovery, and the extraordinary come together aboard the Silversea Origin. With everything included, from gourmet dining and entertainment to expert-led excursions, your journey promises to be as seamless as it is memorable. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary voyage – book your journey with MGA Travel today and transform your idea of travel with Silver Origin.

Itinerary

Day 1 (Thu, December 12, 2024): Quito, Ecuador

  • Arrival and check-in at a hotel in Quito (name yet to be confirmed).
  • Evening at leisure.

Day 2 (Fri, December 13, 2024): Quito, Ecuador

  • Full day to explore Quito and its surroundings at your own pace or participate in optional tours.

Day 3 (Sat, December 14, 2024): Baltra, Galapagos

  • Transfer to the airport and flight to Baltra, Galapagos.
  • Embarkation on the Silver Origin.
  • Briefing, Zodiac® and snorkeling training.
  • Evening sail to Daphne Major.

Day 4 (Sun, December 15, 2024): Daphne Major & Bahia Darwin, Genovesa

  • Morning: Daphne Major: Walking and bird-watching. Activity level: Physically fit.
  • Afternoon: Bahia Darwin, Genovesa: Deep water snorkeling, kayaking, and Zodiac tours. Activity level: Varied.

Day 5 (Mon, December 16, 2024): El Barranco & Darwin Bay, Genovesa

  • Morning: El Barranco: Hiking and bird-watching. Activity level: Physically fit.
  • Afternoon: Darwin Bay: Snorkeling, kayaking, and beach walking. Activity level: Varied.

Day 6 (Tue, December 17, 2024): Seymour Norte & Santiago (Bahia Sullivan)

  • Morning: Seymour Norte: Bird-watching and photography. Activity level: Moderate.
  • Afternoon: Santiago (Bahia Sullivan): Hiking on volcanic terrain. Activity level: Physically fit.

Day 7 (Wed, December 18, 2024): Rábida & Santa Cruz (Edén)

  • Morning: Rábida: Beach activities and snorkeling. Activity level: Varied.
  • Afternoon: Santa Cruz (Edén): Zodiac and snorkeling adventures. Activity level: Varied.

Day 8 (Thu, December 19, 2024): Floreana

  • Morning and Afternoon: Visiting Post Office Bay, Champion Islet, and Cormorant Point for various activities including snorkeling, Zodiac rides, and hiking. Activity level: Varied.

Day 9 (Fri, December 20, 2024): Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz) & Isla Guy Fawkes & Bahia Bowditch, Santa Cruz

  • Morning: Cerro Dragon (Santa Cruz): Hiking and wildlife watching. Activity level: Physically fit.
  • Midday: Isla Guy Fawkes: Deep water snorkeling. Activity level: Physically fit.
  • Afternoon: Bahia Bowditch, Santa Cruz: Activities not specified.

Day 10 (Sat, December 21, 2024): San Cristóbal, Galapagos

  • Arrival at San Cristóbal, the oldest island in the Galapagos.
  • Disembarkation and potential for activities or exploration in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
  • Charter/Group flights provided by Silversea with Economy baggage allowance.

Please note that the activities and excursions are samples and subject to change, so it is recommended to check for the most updated information closer to your sail date.

The Silver Origin

Exquisite Elegance Meets Environmental Stewardship: The Silver Origin is the epitome of luxury, purpose-built to navigate the Galapagos waters. As the first destination-specific ship by Silversea, it presents the Galapagos Islands like never before, with the highest crew-to-guest ratio in the region and a team of Ecuadorian national expert guides. Every suite is a haven of sophistication with Horizon Balconies, personal butler service, and interiors that reflect the beauty of the destination.

Moreover, the Silver Origin stands as a testament to our commitment to preserving the Galapagos’ delicate ecosystem. As one of only two ships in the region with dynamic positioning, it minimizes the impact on the seabed. The ship is also proudly plastic-free, with guests receiving a reusable metallic bottle and access to reverse osmosis refilling stations, eliminating the need for approximately 17,000 plastic bottles.

Join us, and let the Galapagos Islands awaken your spirit of adventure, enrich your understanding of the natural world, and inspire moments of wonder that will stay with you forever. Your extraordinary voyage awaits.

For more detailed information on the itinerary, inclusions, and to book your spot, please see further below:

Things to know about the Galapagos

The Galapagos islands is a volcanic archipelago located 865 miles from Quito.  The 21  islands are considered  a part of the Republic of Equator and are home more than 25,000 people. 

Quito  is the capital city of Ecuador and is the highest capital city which is closest to the equator, with an elevation of 2,850 metres (9,350 ft) above sea level.   Perfect opportunity to try some local foods and a great tour to sample some locally grown, harvested and produced chocolate.

Prior to 1969 the only point of entry was on a private or chartered vessel. Today your options include flights into both San Cristobal or Baltra.  What are you going to see?  Amazing protected wildlife that you can only find on the Galapagos. 

Land tortoises that have been adopted as the symbol of the Galapagos can be seen both in their natural habitat as well as through the conservations efforts at the Charles Darwin Research Station.   This majestic animal  can grow up to 500 pounds,  reach up to six feet in length, and has a lifespan of well over 100 years.  The tortoises were taken by pirates as a food source almost to the point of extinction.  Since the 1970’s the Research Station has been highly successful through its breeding program to restore the once dwindling tortoise population.

Here are some photos from Michael & Kelly’s previous visit:

Birds abound with the signature red pouch of the male frigate bird on prominent display to attract females during mating season.  And let’s not forget about the boobies!!  The Galapagos is home to three distinct breeds of this iconic bird, the Blue Footed, the Red Footed and the Nazca Boobie all breed and live among the islands.  The Blue Footed birds that display the deepest shades of blue are the most attractive to the females.  Galapagos penguins, sea lions, and stunning natural beauty.

Who should go?  Bucket listers, adventure travelers, birders, people interested in science, and those who are looking for pristine completely unspoiled land filled with unique endemic wildlife.

Deck Plans

Pricing

CategoryDescriptionTotal
Per Person
Deposit Due
Per Person
Cruise + Tour +
Outlanders
To Secure Spot
CLASSIC VERANDA SUITESuite size 325 sq.ft.
including veranda
$13,599$3314
SUPERIOR VERANDA SUITESuite size 325 sq.ft.
including veranda
$14,599$3464
DELUXE VERANDA SUITESuite size 335 sq.ft.
including veranda
$15,099$3539
MEDALLION SUITESuite size 355 sq.ft.
including veranda
$18,299$4019
OWNERS SUITESuite size 1722 sq.ft.
including veranda
$37,299$6869
SOLO CLASSIC VERANDASuite size 325 sq.ft.
including veranda
$25,199$4629
all pricing is per person and based on double occupancy except for SOLO CV, subject to availability

*applies to Classic & Superior Suites, and you can upgrade as high as Premium

This Cruise Tour was priced for being a hosted Outlander trip. However it is not going to be an Outlander Trip after all. You will have your Silversea Hosts and Cruise Director. DEDUCT $1200 per person from the above pricing!

FREE Economy Airfare from Charleston, SC** Please be advised that Silversea will has periodic price increases so call to confirm pricing.

**major gateways include Charlotte, Atlanta, JFK, Charleston. For only a $295 per per person smaller gateway fee, you can leave from other smaller airports (although Myrtle Beach is not an option). Business class air may be available as well, at a discounted rate. Call 843-279-0310 for details.

How to Sign Up

Prices are Per Person (except for the SOLO CV), estimated and subject to change prior to deposit, based on availability and double-occupancy. They include cruise, land, hosting, taxes and the below fees. Does not include Airfare unless booked during the special promo offer. Optional  insurance available (for residents of most states) but may need to be adjusted for airfare.

Prices and fares are non-refundable so you will need the insurance to cancel. The insurance is not “cancel for any reason”; cancellation is only reimbursed for a covered reason. Call for limited Solo Traveler Pricing if available. The Deposit amount (and total price shown) already includes a $150 per person non refundable Outlander Add-on and a $150 per person nonrefundable professional fee paid to MGA Travel, which includes a special dinner and other amenities, planning, and our time. Please note that until deposited, pricing is subject to change and based on availability.

Want to go? Simply complete this Secure Payment Form to authorize nonrefundable DEPOSIT (the deposit amount will range depending on suite chosen – see the deposit column in the price chart above). For the name of the trip put “Galapagos 2024”. Unless we already have it, please complete this Secure Passport Form for each passenger. Questions simply call us 843-279-0310 or email office@mgatravel.com . Insurance will be quoted upon request.

IMPORTANT: Please note that this is an Outlander Society trip and The Outlander Society Travel Club requires invitation but you may request to apply with Michael Graham or ask another member to stand for you.

Cruise and land itineraries are subject to change at any time. This itinerary is not finalized and pricing may be adjusted for fuel or inflation.

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