YOUR GUIDE TO GALPAGOS ITINERARIES 2012

YACHT LA PINTAYOUR GUIDE TO GALÁPAGOS

ITINERARIES 2012

INDEXWhy the changes? 1

Frequently asked questions 2

New itineraries general overview 3

Itineraries map

New Itinerary Highlights 5

Complete day-by-day descriptions

Western Islands 7

Eastern Islands 11

Northern Islands 14

Departure dates 16

About the yacht 17

1YACHT LA PINTA

Why the changes?

Vessels in the Galápagos Islands will operate new itineraries approved by the Galápagos National Park from 20th January 2012.

This change is the result of the National Park Service exploring alternatives to ease the pressure on the local wildlife at the 14 most popular visiting sites in the archipelago, by redistributing visitor numbers across more sites.

The new visiting system in the national park allows for a maximum of three itineraries within a 14-night period, during which time no visitor site can be repeated - apart from the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, which may be visited twice.

Our expedition teams in both Quito and the Galápagos have worked extremely hard to develop the new itineraries for our three vessels, taking into account our passengers’ and our clients’ best interests. Each itinerary has gone through many reviews by the National Park authorities before being approved.

It’s important to note that each vessel’s itineraries can be combined, joining two geographic areas together and thereby providing a more complete vision of the archipelago’s history, geology and wildlife.

The benefits of the changes involved in the new visiting system for our trio of vessels include:

• Trails will be improved to reduce the overlap of groups. For instance, Prince Phillip Steps onGenovesa (Tower) will be a loop rather than a straight trail.

• Sitesthatatpresentcannotbevisitedbyvesselsofmorethan40guestswillbeopened,suchasGenovesa, Tagus Cove, Santa Fe Island and South Plaza Island.

• Optionalactivitiessuchaspangarides,glass-bottomboatrides,swimming,snorkellingandkayakingcan be enjoyed at more sites and with improved zoning.

• Awiderrangeofoptionsandmoreenrichingexperiences.

• Thenewitinerariesaremorefinelytunedtoourvessels’attributes.

2 ITINERARIES 2012

WESTERN GALÁPAGOS (8D/7N Friday to Friday)

DAY AM VISITS ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS SN KY PR GBBFriday Baltra Airport Baltra North Seymour North Seymour x x Saturday Punta Vicente Roca Isabela x x Punta Espinoza Fernandina x Sunday Urbina Bay Isabela x Tagus Cove Isabela x x x xMonday Red Beach Rábida x x x x Cerro Dragón Santa Cruz x Tuesday Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz Twin Craters Santa Cruz

x x xThursday Santa Fe Island Santa Fe x x x x South Plaza Island South Plaza Friday Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport San Cristóbal

EASTERN GALAPÁGOS (4D/3N Friday to Monday)

DAY AM VISITS SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS SN KY PR GBBFriday Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport San Cristóbal Cerro Brujo San Cristóbal x x x Saturday Galapaguera Natural San Cristóbal x Punta Pitt San Cristóbal x x x xSunday Punta Suárez Española Gardner Bay Española x x x xMonday Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz

Baltra Airport

NORTHERN GALÁPAGOS (5D/4N Monday to Friday)

DAY AM VISITS

SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS

SN KY PR GBB

Monday Baltra Airport Santa Cruz El Chato Tortoise Reserve Santa Cruz Tuesday Bahía Ballena Santa Cruz x x x x Sombrero Chino Islet Chinese Hat x x xWednesday Bartolomé Island Bartolomé x x x Sullivan Bay Santiago x Thursday Darwin Bay Genovesa x x x Prince Phillip Steps Genovesa x Friday Baltra Airport Baltra

SN: Snorkel

KY: Kayak

PR: Panga Ride

GBB: Glass-bottom boat

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. WHY ARE MT VESSELS CHANGING TO A 15-DAY SYSTEM? The Galápagos National Park (GNP) and environmental agencies have determined that

after three decades of tourism in Galápagos, only one aspect has been declining: guests’ experience due to overlapping itineraries. Fewer visitors per day will reduce the impact on erosion, possible stress on animals and enhance visitors’ experience, particularly at the 14 most popular visiting sites in the archipelago.

2. WILL ALL ITINERARIES NOW BE 15 DAYS-LONG? No, the new visiting system in the national park allows for a maximum of three itineraries

within a 15-day period, during which time no visitor site can be repeated – apart from the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, which may be visited twice. Our new itineraries are a combination of 8-, 7-, 6-, 5- and 4-day itineraries.

3. DOES THE CHANGE APPLY TO ALL VESSELS IN GALÁPAGOS? Yes. Absolutely all vessels have to comply with this new system.

4. WHEN DOES IT START? No later than February 1st 2012 for all vessels operating in Galápagos. 5. HOW WILL THE TRANSITION TAKE PLACE? All vessels will change from the current itineraries to the new ones on Friday, January 20th

2012. Until then, we will keep the current itineraries for all vessels.

6. CAN I BOOK COMBINATION OF ITINERARIES? YES, by all means. On all vessels.

7. HAS THE PARK OPENED NEW SITES? No. The National Park has a total of 145 visiting sites in the archipelago, between terrestrial

and marine sites. While many marine sites are only used by SCUBA diving operations, many are part of a regular expedition itinerary (like Punta Vicente Roca, Gardner Islet, Champion Islet, etc.).

8. HOW WILL MY GUESTS BENEFIT FROM THE CHANGE?• Ourvesselswillbeontheirownduringmanyvisits.Ourexpeditionleaderscancoordinatethe

optimum time and period for visits at sites, without having to take into consideration timing visits with other vessels.

• Top visiting sites, likeGenovesa, Santa Fe, SouthPlaza, Punta Pitt at Chatham, SombreroChino and Tagus Cove (closed a few years ago to vessels with a capacity larger than 40 pax) will be available again under the new 14-night system.

• Snorkeling, panga rides and kayaking will be assigned specific sites and times to avoidoverlapping activities.

• SnorkelingatFernandinawillbepermittedagain.• Overall,moresnorkeling,kayak,glass-bottomboatopportunities.• More“iconsites/species”canbeseenoneachofournewitinerariescomparedtothecurrent

ones. • Trailswillbeimproved(PrincePhillipSteps,NorthSeymour,etc.)

9. HOW DOES THE GNP BENEFIT FROM THIS? All visiting sites, especially the most popular ones (because of their proximity to airports or

towns), will reduce the total number of DAILY visitors, reducing stress on the soil, on plants and animals. Also, by applying more efficient routes between islands, ships will reduce the fuel consumption of the entire Galápagos fleet, reducing the need to bring fossil fuels to Galápagos, and reducing the overall carbon emissions from Galápagos. The new system also reduces the stress on Baltra, its island, airport and nearby islands, by including San Cristóbal asadeparture/arrivalportforallvessels.

10. CAN I BOOK EXTENSIONS WITH THE FINCH BAY ECO HOTEL (FBH)? Yes, on the following itineraries: WESTERN8D/7N:PRE EASTERN4D/3N:POST NORTHERN5D/4N:PREANDPOST

11. CAN I COMBINE THE NEW ITINERARIES WITH SCUBA DIVING? Scuba will continue to be exclusively operated by local outfitters as it is now. Combinations

with the FBH are ideal for scuba diving.

3YACHT LA PINTA

NEW ITINERARIES GENERAL OVERVIEW

WESTERN GALÁPAGOS (8D/7N Friday to Friday)

DAY AM VISITS ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

ISLAND

SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS SN KY PR GBBFriday Baltra Airport Baltra North Seymour North Seymour x x Saturday Punta Vicente Roca Isabela x x Punta Espinoza Fernandina x Sunday Urbina Bay Isabela x Tagus Cove Isabela x x x xMonday Red Beach Rábida x x x x Cerro Dragón Santa Cruz x Tuesday Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz Twin Craters Santa Cruz

x x xThursday Santa Fe Island Santa Fe x x x x South Plaza Island South Plaza Friday Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport San Cristóbal

EASTERN GALAPÁGOS (4D/3N Friday to Monday)

DAY AM VISITS SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS SN KY PR GBBFriday Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Airport San Cristóbal Cerro Brujo San Cristóbal x x x Saturday Galapaguera Natural San Cristóbal x Punta Pitt San Cristóbal x x x xSunday Punta Suárez Española Gardner Bay Española x x x xMonday Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz

Baltra Airport

NORTHERN GALÁPAGOS (5D/4N Monday to Friday)

DAY AM VISITS

SN KY PR GBB PM VISITS

SN KY PR GBB

Monday Baltra Airport Santa Cruz El Chato Tortoise Reserve Santa Cruz Tuesday Bahía Ballena Santa Cruz x x x x Sombrero Chino Islet Chinese Hat x x xWednesday Bartolomé Island Bartolomé x x x Sullivan Bay Santiago x Thursday Darwin Bay Genovesa x x x Prince Phillip Steps Genovesa x Friday Baltra Airport Baltra

SN: Snorkel

KY: Kayak

PR: Panga Ride

GBB: Glass-bottom boat

4 ITINERARIES 2012

Canal Bolívar

Elizabeth Bay

UrbinaBay

Caleta Webb

El Junco Lagoon

Puerto Egas

Buccaneer Cove

(Grossman)

Cabo Marshall

Punta García

Punta Moreno

Punta Essex

Cabo Rose

South PlazaLas Bachas

Punta Bassa

León Dormido

Punta Calle

Playa Negra Darwin Bay Prince Phillip Steps

Cabo Ibbetson

Cabo Douglas

Santa María

Marchena

Pinta

San Cristóbal

Española

Santiago

Santa Fe

Red Beach

Rábida

Tortuga

Los 4 Hermanos

North Seymour

Puerto Villamil

Teodoro Wolf

Charles Darwin

(Albemarle)Sierra NegraVolcano

Cerro AzulVolcano

Isabela

WolfVolcano

AlcedoVolcano

La CumbreVolcano

DarwinVolcano

(Abingdon)

(Brattle)

(Bindloe)

(Hood)

Floreana

(Culpepper)

(Wenman)

(Narborough)Fernandina

Caleta Iguana

Punta San Juan

BahíaBanks

James Bay

(James)

Punta Albemarle

Punta Flores

Punta Cormorant / Champion Post Office Bay / Baroness Cove

Cabo Nepean

Cabo Berkeley

Punta Vicente Roca

PuntaEspinoza

TagusCove

Pto. BaquerizoMoreno

Itabaca

Punta Pitt

GalapagueraNatural

Charles DarwinResearch Station

Gardner Bay

El Chato

Sombrero Chino

Punta Suárez

Baltra

Genovesa

BartoloméSullivan Bay

Cerro Brujo

Bahia Ballena

8D/7N ITINERARY WESTERN GALÁPAGOS FRIDAY TO FRIDAY

4D/3N ITINERARYEASTERN GALÁPAGOS FRIDAY TO MONDAY

5D/4N ITINERARY NORTHERN GALÁPAGOS MONDAY TO FRIDAY

Giant TortoiseReserve

Cerro Dragon

Twin CratersSanta Cruz

Finch Bay Eco HotelAcademy Bay

(START)(START)

(END) (START)

(END)(END)

(Tower)

(Jervis)

Puerto Ayora

(Barrington)

(Indefatigable) Hobbs Bay

YACHT LA PINTA NEW ITINERARIES 2012

5YACHT LA PINTA

WESTERN GALÁPAGOS

ISLANDSBaltra, North Seymour, Isabela, Fernandina, Rábida, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Santa Fe, South Plaza, San Cristóbal

ICON SPECIES• Galápagossealion• Galápagosfurseal• Gianttortoises• Santafelandiguana• Galápagoslandiguana• Marineiguanas• Hybridiguana• Blue-footedboobies• Nazcaboobies• Galápagosdoves,• Galápagosmockingbirds• Chathammockingbirds• Floreanamockingbirds• Darwinfinches• Greaterflamingoes• Galápagoshawks• Brownpelicans• Greaterfrigates• Magnificentfrigates• Flightlesscormorants,• Galápagospenguins• Swallow-tailedgulls• Lavagulls,lava(striated)herons• Galápagosmartins

HIGHLIGHT SITES• PostOfficeBay• DarwinLake• Urbina´sUpheaval• CharlesDarwinResearchStation• BaronessTower

EASTERN GALÁPAGOS

ISLANDSSan Cristóbal, Española, Santa Cruz, Baltra

ICON SPECIES• Galápagossealion• Gianttortoises• Galápagoslandiguana• Marineiguanas• Blue-footedboobies• Nazcaboobies• Red-footedboobies• Galápagosdoves• Galápagosmockingbirds• Chathammockingbirds• Españolamockingbirds• Darwinfinches• Galápagoshawks• Short-earedowls• Brownpelicans• Greaterfrigates• Magnificentfrigates• Galápagospenguins• Swallow-tailedgulls• Lavagulls• Lava(striated)herons• Wavedalbatrosses(From:Aprto:Dec)

HIGHLIGHT SITES• CharlesDarwinResearchStation• KickerRock.• PuntaSuárez

NORTHERN GALÁPAGOS

ISLANDSBaltra, Santa Cruz, Sombrero Chino, Bartolomé, Genovesa, Santiago

ICON SPECIES• Galápagossealion• Galápagosfurseal• Gianttortoises• Marineiguanas• Blue-footedboobies• Nazcaboobies• Red-footedboobies• Galápagosdoves• Galápagosmockingbirds• Españolamockingbirds• Darwinfinches• Galápagoshawks• Short-earedowls• Brownpelicans• Greaterfrigates• Magnificentfrigates• Galápagospenguins• Swallow-tailedgulls• Lavagulls• Lava(striated)herons

HIGHLIGHT SITES• PinnacleRock• KickerRock.• DarwinBay

NEW ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Canal Bolívar

Elizabeth Bay

UrbinaBay

Caleta Webb

El Junco Lagoon

Puerto Egas

Buccaneer Cove

(Grossman)

Cabo Marshall

Punta García

Punta Moreno

Punta Essex

Cabo Rose


Punta Bassa

León Dormido

Punta Calle


Cabo Ibbetson

Cabo Douglas

Santa María

Marchena

Pinta

San Cristóbal

Española

Santiago

Santa Fe

Red Beach

Rábida

Tortuga

Los 4 Hermanos

North Seymour

Puerto Villamil

Teodoro Wolf

Charles Darwin


Cerro AzulVolcano

Isabela

WolfVolcano

AlcedoVolcano

La CumbreVolcano

DarwinVolcano

(Abingdon)

(Brattle)

(Bindloe)

(Hood)

Floreana

(Culpepper)

(Wenman)


Caleta Iguana

Punta San Juan

BahíaBanks

James Bay

(James)

Punta Albemarle

Punta Flores


Cabo Nepean

Cabo Berkeley

Punta Vicente Roca

PuntaEspinoza

TagusCove


Itabaca

Punta Pitt

GalapagueraNatural


Gardner Bay

El Chato

Sombrero Chino

Punta Suárez

Baltra

Genovesa


Cerro Brujo

Bahia Ballena





Cerro Dragon



(START)(START)

(END) (START)

(END)(END)

(Tower)

(Jervis)

Puerto Ayora

(Barrington)


6 ITINERARIES 2012

Canal Bolívar

Elizabeth Bay

UrbinaBay

Caleta Webb

El Junco Lagoon

Puerto Egas

Buccaneer Cove

(Grossman)

Cabo Marshall

Punta García

Punta Moreno

Punta Essex

Cabo Rose


Punta Bassa

León Dormido

Punta Calle

Playa NegraDarwin Bay Prince Phillip Steps

Cabo Ibbetson

Cabo Douglas

Santa María

Marchena

Pinta

San Cristóbal

Española

Santiago

Santa Fe

Red Beach

Rábida

Tortuga

Los 4 Hermanos

North Seymour

Puerto Villamil

Teodoro Wolf

Charles Darwin


Cerro AzulVolcano

Isabela

WolfVolcano

AlcedoVolcano

La CumbreVolcano

DarwinVolcano

(Abingdon)

(Brattle)

(Bindloe)

(Hood)

Floreana

(Culpepper)

(Wenman)


Caleta Iguana

Punta San Juan

BahíaBanks

James Bay

(James)

Punta Albemarle

Punta Flores


Cabo Nepean

Cabo Berkeley

Punta Vicente Roca

PuntaEspinoza

TagusCove


Itabaca

Punta PittGalapagueraNatural


Gardner Bay

El Chato

Sombrero Chino

Punta Suárez

Baltra

Genovesa

Bartolomé

Sullivan Bay

Cerro Brujo

Bahia Ballena



Cerro Dragon



(Tower)

(Jervis)

Puerto Ayora

Hobbs Bay

(Barrington)

(Indefatigable)

(Fri-AM)

(Tue-AM)

(Tue-PM)

(Fri-AM)

(Fri-PM)

(Sat-AM)

(Mon-AM)(Sun-AM)

(Sun-PM)

(Thu-AM)

(Thu-PM)

(START)

(END)

(Sat-PM)

(Mon-PM)

(Wed-AM) (Wed-PM)


7YACHT LA PINTA

WESTERN ISLANDS GALÁPAGOS ITINERARYFriday to Friday – 8 days/ 7 nightsEffective from Januay 20th 2012

FRIDAYBaltra IslandMorning arrival toBaltra Islandflight and immediate transfer to thedock toboardYacht LaPinta. Welcomeintroductory briefing and lunch.

North Seymour IslandAfternoon disembarkation (dry landing) for a walk along the coast and the interior of the island, observing bird colonies of blue footed boobies, frigate birds, swallow tailed gulls and also sea lions and marine iguanas. Opportunity for snorkelling or coastal exploration. Evening briefing, welcome cocktail and dinner.

SATURDAYPunta Vicente Roca (Isabela Island)Since there is no landing site at this location, the coastal exploration is by dinghy, while the naturalist guide explains the dramatic geology of the area with remains of lava flows and tuff stone layers. This is the nesting place for flightless cormorants, the only existing marine birds in the world other than penguins that have changed their condition of flying birds to diving birds. Wildlife here also includes sea lions, Galápagos fur seals, Galápagos penguins, blue-footed and Nazca boobies and noddy terns. Depending on the conditions of the ocean, it will be possible to schedule a snorkelling outing along the cliffs of partly-sunken Ecuador Volcano, near the northern tip of Isabela Island. This area has a very rich marine life, and is seasonally visited by green sea turtles. Lunch on board.

Punta Espinoza (Fernandina Island)Afternoon visit to the youngest island of the archipelago, Fernandina. Disembark (dry landing) for a one-mile walk over dark lava. Punta Espinoza has an amazing combination of barrenness and a lot of wildlife. Having no introduced mammals, Fernandina boasts a very unique environment with the highest density of marine iguanas, sharing their space with sea lions, sally-light foot crabs, hawks, penguins and the flightless cormorant. Snorkelling is possible. Evening briefing and dinner.

SUNDAYUrbina Bay (Isabela Island)After breakfast (wet landing) disembark at Urbina Bay, located at the foot of volcanoes Alcedo and Darwin, west of Isabela Island, the result of an uplifting of the ocean in 1954. Here you can find corals, shells, and many other calcareous organisms exposed above water. This area is also home to large and very colourful Galápagos land iguanas, giant tortoises (occasionally); a good spot to observe Darwin’s finches. Along the shoreline, after the hike, guests may encounter flightless cormorants and see penguins while snorkelling in this beautiful cove. Lunch on board.

8 ITINERARIES 2012

Tagus Cove (Isabela Island)On the northwest of Isabela, secluded Tagus Cove provided a favourite anchorage for pirates and whalers over the centuries. Old graffiti is still found carved on its walls. The vegetation in the area includes the fragrant palo santo trees. These white-barked trees are leafless and look dead most of the year. They leaf and spring back to life in the wet season. An uphill hike takes guests to the back of Darwin Crater, filled with salt water. The view at the end of the trail is worth the climb. Darwin is one of Isabela’s six volcanoes, a remarkable contrast to the lower islands to the east of the archipelago. Possibilities to swim, snorkel or ride kayaks. There is no beach in the area, so these activities are done from the pangas. Briefing and dinner.

MONDAYRábida Island (Jervis)Disembark at Rábida Island (wet landing) on a red-coloured beach, due to the unusually high content of iron in the volcanic material. A gratifying stroll along the beach of this small island (1.9 sq. mi.) allows the observation of a large colony of sea lions, marine iguanas, mockingbirds, yellow warblers and several species of Darwin’s finches. Very close to the beach, hidden behind a strip of green saltbush, is a salt pond where at times greater flamingos migrate. This is a great place to snorkel from the beach, both for beginners as well as for experienced snorkelers, due to the unique combination of underwater species and submarine landscapes. During navigation to our next island, dolphins are often spotted. Lunch on board.

Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill) (Santa Cruz Island)The north shore of Santa Cruz hosts Cerro Dragón (Dragon Hill). Dry landing and a walk that includes a brackish water lagoon frequented by lagoon birds, including stilts, pintail ducks, sandpipers, sanderlings, and more. Further inland, the trail offers a beautiful view of the bay and the western islands of the archipelago. This area is a natural nesting site for land iguanas, constantly monitored and assisted by the Charles Darwin Research Station. The arid-zone vegetation can be a rewarding location for bird watching, where Darwin’s finches, Galápagos mockingbirds, the endemic Galápagos flycatcher, and yellow warblers are regular sightings. Tonight our expedition plan will reveal the interesting sites of the day ahead. Dinner.

TUESDAYPuerto Ayora and the Charles Darwin Research StationMorningdisembarkation(drylanding)tovisittotheCharlesDarwinResearchStationandthegianttortoisepens,includingtortoisecelebritieslike“LonesomeGeorge”withinanimpressivegiantprickly-pearcactusforesthometo many land birds. These are the headquarters of scientific investigation, conservation and the National Park administration. Lunch at the poolside of the Finch Bay Eco Hotel.

Highlands of Santa Cruz IslandAfter lunch, visit the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, with their impressive Scalesia forest and the geological formation of the twin pit craters known Los Gemelos. From December to mid-April a visit to see the giant tortoises in the wild may be included, if weather conditions are good. Next day’s expedition plan and dinner.

9YACHT LA PINTA

WEDNESDAYBaroness Cove & Post Office Bay (Floreana Island)After Breakfast, a wet landing at the Post Office Bay to visit the historic barrel that has been serving as a post office in the archipelago for over two centuries, to learn about the human side of the islands, its early inhabitants and the adventures of pirates and whalers. Panga ride along the maze of channels in the north shore of Floreana, see the Sea Lion colonies, marine turtles in shallow waters, rays and occasionally penguins. Wet Landing on Baroness Cove and a shortwalkuptotheobservationtowertoenjoybreathtakingviewsofFloreanaanditsnearbyislets.Snorkellingand/or kayaking is possible. Back on board for lunch.

Cormorant Point (Floreana Island)Disembark at Punta Cormorant (wet landing) at an olivine-crystal beach for an easy walk that includes a brackish water lagoon where bird species like greater flamingos, pintail ducks, common stilts, herons, sandpipers, and others may be observed. This outing also includes a white-sand beach where sea turtles come out at night to nest (from December toMay).Possibilityofsnorkellingfromthebeach;arideinourglass-bottomboat;orforadvancedsnorkelers,“TheDevil’sCrown”,ifconditionspermit.Briefinganddinner.

THURSDAYSanta Fe IslandAfterbreakfast,awetlandingonasandywhitebeachwithmanysealionharems.Bullsviefortherightof“BeachMaster”,while smallermalesmaskingas femalesmake stealthymatingmoves.Galápagoshawksareofteneasilyobserved, perched atop salt bushes. The giant prickly pear cactus found here live up to their name with tree-sized trunks! The endemic land iguana, unique to this island, may be spotted during the afternoon walk. Snorkelling and swimming from the beach rounds off the rewarding experience. Lunch on board.

South Plaza IslandDisembark (dry landing) in the channel between North and South Plaza Islands, where the island tilts toward the water, the approach makes for a lavishly colourful sight! The turquoise waters of the channel contrast brilliantly with the white sand and black lava of the shoreline. The rocks have grown thick with green seaweed in places, speckled with bright orange ‘Sally Lightfoot’ crabs. Further up the shore a carpet of scarlet sesuvium succulents serves as groundcover for a grove of luminescent green prickly-pear cactus. Yellow-gray land iguanas sit beneath these, waiting patiently for pears to drop. Along the coastline one finds sea lion colonies, while frigates, swallow-tailed gulls and shearwaters glide playing with the thermals that form along the cliffs of this small but amazing island. Briefing and dinner.

FRIDAYPuerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal (Chatham) Island)After breakfast, departure to the port and airport for flight back to the mainland.

IMPORTANT NOTES:The itineraries and programme are subject to change without prior notice, due mainly to adjustments in the policies and regulations of the Galápagos National Park, weather conditions, seasonal changes and safety reasons.•Drylanding:guestsstepfromthedinghyontorocksoradock.•Wetlanding:asthedinghyedgesontoasandybeach,guestsstepintoknee-deepwaterandwadeashore

10 ITINERARIES 2012

Canal Bolívar

Elizabeth Bay

Urbina

Bay

Caleta Webb

El Junco Lagoon

Puerto Egas

Buccaneer Cove

(Grossman)

Cabo Marshall

Punta García

Punta Moreno

Punta Essex

Cabo Rose

South Plaza

Las Bachas

Punta Bassa

León Dormido

Punta Calle

Playa NegraDarwin Bay Prince Phillip Steps

Cabo Ibbetson

Cabo Douglas

Santa María

Marchena

Pinta

San Cristóbal

Española

Santiago

Santa Fe

Red Beach

Rábida

Tortuga

Los 4 Hermanos

NorthSeymour

Puerto Villamil

Teodoro Wolf

Charles Darwin


Cerro AzulVolcano

Isabela

WolfVolcano

AlcedoVolcano

La CumbreVolcano

DarwinVolcano

(Abingdon)

(Brattle)

(Bindloe)

(Hood)

Floreana

(Culpepper)

(Wenman)


Caleta Iguana

Punta San Juan

BahíaBanks

James Bay

(James)

Punta Albemarle

Punta Flores


Cabo Nepean

Cabo Berkeley

Punta Vicente Roca

Punta

Espinoza

Tagus

Cove


Itabaca

Punta Pitt

GalapagueraNatural


Gardner Bay

El Chato

Sombrero Chino

Punta Suárez

Baltra

Genovesa

Bartolomé

Sullivan Bay

Cerro Brujo

Bahia

Ballena



Cerro Dragon



(Tower)

(Jervis)

Puerto Ayora

Hobbs Bay

(Barrington)

(Indefatigable)

(Fri-AM)

(Fri-PM)

(Sat-PM)

(Sat-AM)

(Sun-AM) (Sun-PM)

(Mon-AM)

(Mon-AM)

(START)

(END)


11YACHT LA PINTA

FRIDAYPuerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal Island)

Arrival by plane to San Cristóbal Island and transfer to Yacht La Pinta for cabin assignment, introductory briefing and lunch.

Cerro Brujo (San Cristóbal Island)

A dinghy ride along the shores of tuff-stone layers takes guests to Cerro Brujo’s white coraline beach (wet landing). The

beach is a large expanse, great for walking, with rewarding birdwatching with good views of seabirds like blue-footed

boobies, Nazca boobies, herons, frigate birds, and more shore birds. Also, look out for Galápagos sea lions. Highlights

ashore include the Chatham (San Cristóbal) mockingbird, Chatham lava lizard; both species are endemic to this island,

and seen nowhere else in the Galápagos. These are the same shores that Charles Darwin walked upon, back in September

1835, as San Cristóbal was the first island where he set foot in the Galápagos. Evening Cocktail, briefing and dinner.

SATURDAY Natural Galapaguera (San Cristóbal Island)

Early disembarkation (wet landing) for what is the longest hike on the itinerary (4 miles). The trail goes up the slopes of

San Cristóbal’s well eroded shield volcano. The trail takes guests through the arid zone, a great place to see Darwin’s

finches and other land birds including the endemic Chatham mockingbirds. Along the way, one can spot some of the

last individuals of the San Cristóbal giant tortoise population, living in the wild -- tortoises here were almost hunted to

extinction during the late 19th century by local colonizers. After the invigorating hike, enjoy a swim to cool off before

returning back on board for lunch.

Punta Pitt (San Cristóbal Island)

Afternoon disembarkation (wet landing) on the eastern tip of the island. Pitt Point is an eroded tuff cone; the trail that

ascends from the beach provides spectacular views of the shoreline. This is the only site in the Galápagos where the three

species of boobies can be found together, as well as the two frigate species, plus a colony of bachelor sea lions along the

beach. After the walk, if conditions are favourable, there is a chance to swim from the beach. Expedition plan for the next

day and dinner.

EASTERN ISLANDS GALÁPAGOS ITINERARYFriday to Monday – 4 days/3 nights

Effective from 20th January 2012

12 ITINERARIES 2012

SUNDAYPunta Suarez (Española (Hood) Island)

MorningoutingatPuntaSuarez(drylanding)foranexcitingwalkonlava/boulderterraintovisititsuniquesea

bird colonies, including the waved albatrosses (April - December), Nazca (masked) boobies, blue-footed boobies,

swallow-tail gulls, and the famous blowhole. Among its land birds, the Hood island mockingbird, and three species

of Darwin’s finches are common highlights. Also, look for red-green-black marine iguanas. Back on board for lunch.

Gardner Bay (Española Island)

In the afternoon, disembark (wet landing) at a white coral beach for a short walk to observe the sea lions,

mockingbirds, finches or enjoy the beach. There is great snorkelling in this area ( snorkelling equipment is available

for guests at no extra cost), kayak or ride the glass-bottom boat. Briefing and dinner.

MONDAYCharles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz Island)

Morningdisembarkation(drylanding)tovisittheCharlesDarwinResearchStationandthe‘rearingincaptivity’

programme for the giant tortoises. Here guests witness the efforts and results of all the field work done in the

name of science. An impressive giant prickly-pear cactus forest and many land birds can be also seen. Transfer by

bus across Santa Cruz Island and a short ferry ride to Baltra. Transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the

mainland.

IMPORTANT NOTES:The itineraries and programme are subject to change without prior notice, due mainly to adjustments in the policies

and regulations of the Galápagos National Park, weather conditions, seasonal changes and safety reasons.

•Drylanding:guestsstepfromthedinghyontorocksoradock.

•Wetlanding:asthedinghyedgesontoasandybeach,guestsstepintoknee-deepwaterandwadeashore

13YACHT LA PINTA

Canal Bolívar

Elizabeth Bay

Urbina

Bay

Caleta Webb

El Junco Lagoon

Puerto Egas

Buccaneer Cove

(Grossman)

Cabo Marshall

Punta García

Punta Moreno

Punta Essex

Cabo Rose

South Plaza

Las Bachas

Punta Bassa

León Dormido

Punta Calle


Cabo Ibbetson

Cabo Douglas

Santa María

Marchena

Pinta

San Cristóbal

Española

Santiago

Santa Fe

Red Beach

Rábida

Tortuga

Los 4 Hermanos

North Seymour

Puerto Villamil

Teodoro Wolf

Charles Darwin


Cerro AzulVolcano

Isabela

WolfVolcano

AlcedoVolcano

La CumbreVolcano

DarwinVolcano

(Abingdon)

(Brattle)

(Bindloe)

(Hood)

Floreana

(Culpepper)

(Wenman)


Caleta Iguana

Punta San Juan

BahíaBanks

James Bay

(James)

Punta Albemarle

Punta Flores


Cabo Nepean

Cabo Berkeley

Punta Vicente Roca

Punta

Espinoza

Tagus

Cove


Itabaca

Punta Pitt

GalapagueraNatural


Gardner Bay

El Chato

Sombrero Chino

Punta Suárez

Baltra

Genovesa


Cerro Brujo

Bahia Ballena



Cerro Dragon



(Tower)

(Jervis)

Puerto Ayora

(Barrington)


(Mon-AM) (START)

(Mon-PM)

(Tue-AM)

(Tue-PM)(Fri-AM)

(Thu-AM) (Thu-PM)

(Wed-AM)

(Wed-PM)

(END)


14 ITINERARIES 2012

NORTHERN ISLANDS GALÁPAGOS ITINERARYMonday to Friday – 5 days/4 nights

Effective from 20th January 2012

MONDAYBaltra AirportMorningarrivalatBaltraAirport,transfertotheItabacaChannel.AsmallferrywilltakeusacrosstheChanneltothenorthshore of Santa Cruz Island. We board our bus to the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, where guests will learn about the unique montane ecosystems and biodiversity. Lunch at a local restaurant.

El Chato (Santa Cruz Island)After lunch, travel by bus to El Chato Reserve, one of the best places in the archipelago to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat. The tortoises are easy to spot, lumbering around, eating grass and leaves and wallowing in the small pools that are common in the reserve. You may also spot some highland birds, like cattle egrets, mockingbirds, finches or flycatchers. There are several lava tunnels in the reserve, a great place to spot the barn owl. There is also a small lagoon covered in red algae where gallinules and Galápagos pintails can be found. Bus ride to Puerto Ayora to board Yacht La

Pinta. Introductory Briefing including the expedition plan for Tuesday, welcome Cocktail and dinner.

TUESDAYBahía Ballena – Whale Bay (Santa Cruz Island)After breakfast disembark (wet landing) at a beautiful olivine beach (a volcanic crystal that forms in fast-cooling lava). The area has historical relevance since a small community lived in this area in the late 1900s, collecting lichen (Rosella Tictoria), used in the textile industry. The trail leads guests to an old water hole used by the former settlers. There are also boobies, land birds and beautiful views of the northwest side of Santa Cruz Island to enjoy. Several activities are possible after the walk, such as snorkelling or a panga ride along the shoreline. Back on board for lunch.

Sombrero Chino Islet Less than a quarter-of-a-square-kilometre in size, the tiny island of Sombrero Chino gets its name from its appearance: a Chinese hat. Lying just off the southeastern tip of San Salvador Island (James), this island, only formed fairly recently, makes a beautiful visit as one explores along its 400-metre long trail, which begins at a crescent-shaped white sandy beach. Several species of shore birds can be spotted, along with marine iguanas, lava lizards, Galápagos penguins and sally lightfoot crabs. The cove offers excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities with white-tipped reef sharks and

tropical fish. Briefing and dinner.

WEDNESDAYBartolomé IslandDisembark at Bartolomé Island (dry landing) for a hike to the summit. A great way to start the day! This is a steep climb up a wooden staircase with handrails and several resting and observation stops; the view from the top is worth the effort. Following the walk, a dinghy ride around colossal Pinnacle Rock, is rewarding, followed by time to enjoy the beach (wet landing) and some snorkelling, with possible Galápagos penguin sightings. Guests can also ride on the glass-bottom boat for great views of the underwater world. Lunch on board.

15YACHT LA PINTA

Sullivan Bay (James Island)After lunch, board the panga for the short ride to the landing site at Sullivan Bay on the East Coast of Santiago. Wet landing on a white coral sand beach and a walk over lava that flowed here less than 100 years ago. This is the perfect place to see and feel the volcanic origin of Galápagos. The last major eruption on Santiago was probably in the early 1900’s. One observer aboard a sailing vessel reported that the ship approached the lava flow so closely that the pine tar used to seal the hull of the ship began to soften, and the captain had to hurry the ship away from the bay. Briefing and dinner.

THURSDAYDarwin Bay (Tower/Genovesa Island)In the morning, a wet landing for an easy stroll observing thousands of birds, mainly frigate birds, red footed and masked boobies, gulls, herons, finches and mockingbirds. Optional walk over sharp lava and uneven terrain for dramatic views, or else return to the beach to enjoy swimming and snorkelling at this beautiful natural harbour. The more adventurous can snorkel along the cliffs or paddle sea kayaks. Lunch on board.

Prince Philip’s Steps (Tower/Genovesa Island)The afternoon starts with a very interesting panga ride along the cliffs and then disembark (dry landing) on rocks for a steep climb (90 feet) up some stairs. Once at the top of the stairs, the land is flat, allowing for a stimulating walk of about a mile to the other side of this small island, observing large colonies of masked boobies, frigate birds and storm petrels. Those not wishing to disembark can enjoy a longer panga ride along the cliffs (depending on weather conditions). Farewell Cocktail, departure briefing and dinner.

FRIDAYBaltra IslandDisembark on Baltra Island. Transfer to the airport to take the flight back to the mainland.

IMPORTANT NOTES:The itineraries and programme are subject to change without prior notice, due mainly to adjustments in the policies and regulations of the Galápagos National Park, weather conditions, seasonal changes and safety reasons.•Drylanding:guestsstepfromthedinghyontorocksoradock.•Wetlanding:asthedinghyedgesontoasandybeach,guestsstepintoknee-deepwaterandwadeashore

16 ITINERARIES 2012

GALÁPAGOS ITINERARIES 2012 DEPARTURE DATES

DRY DOCK

WESTERN ISLANDS 8D/7N FRIDAY TO FRIDAY

ARRIVAL DEPARTURE BALTRA P. BAQUERIZO MORENO SAN CRISTÓBAL

20-Jan-12 27-Jan-12

03-Feb-12 10-Feb-12

17-Feb-12 24-Feb-12

02-Mar-12 09-Mar-12

16-Mar-12 23-Mar-12

30-Mar-12 06-Apr-12

13-Apr-12 20-Apr-12

27-Apr-12 04-May-12

11-May-12 18-May-12

25-May-12 01-Jun-12

08-Jun-12 15-Jun-12

22-Jun-12 29-Jun-12

06-Jul-12 13-Jul-12

20-Jul-12 27-Jul-12

03-Aug-12 10-Aug-12

17-Aug-12 24-Aug-12

31-Aug-12 07-Sep-12

14-Sep-12 21-Sep-12

28-Sep-12 05-Oct-12

12-Oct-12 19-Oct-12

26-Oct-12 02-Nov-12

09-Nov-12 16-Nov-12

23-Nov-12 30-Nov-12

07-Dec-12 14-Dec-12

21-Dec-12 28-Dec-12

EASTERN ISLANDS 4D/3N FRIDAY TO MONDAY

ARRIVAL DEPARTURE P. BAQUERIZO MORENO BALTRA SAN CRISTÓBAL

27-Jan-12 30-Jan-12

10-Feb-12 13-Feb-12

24-Feb-12 27-Feb-12

09-Mar-12 12-Mar-12

23-Mar-12 26-Mar-12

06-Apr-12 09-Apr-12

20-Apr-12 23-Apr-12

04-May-12 07-May-12

18-May-12 21-May-12

01-Jun-12 04-Jun-12

15-Jun-12 18-Jun-12

29-Jun-12 02-Jul-12

13-Jul-12 16-Jul-12

27-Jul-12 30-Jul-12

10-Aug-12 13-Aug-12

24-Aug-12 27-Aug-12

07-Sep-12 10-Sep-12

21-Sep-12 24-Sep-12

05-Oct-12 08-Oct-12

19-Oct-12 22-Oct-12

02-Nov-12 05-Nov-12

16-Nov-12 19-Nov-12

30-Nov-12 03-Dec-12

14-Dec-12 17-Dec-12

28-Dec-12 31-Dec-12

NORTHERN ISLANDS 5D/4N MONDAY TO FRIDAY

ARRIVAL DEPARTURE BALTRA BALTRA

30-Jan-12 03-Feb-12

13-Feb-12 17-Feb-12

27-Feb-12 02-Mar-12

12-Mar-12 16-Mar-12

26-Mar-12 30-Mar-12

09-Apr-12 13-Apr-12

23-Apr-12 27-Apr-12

07-May-12 11-May-12

21-May-12 25-May-12

04-Jun-12 08-Jun-12

18-Jun-12 22-Jun-12

02-Jul-12 06-Jul-12

16-Jul-12 20-Jul-12

30-Jul-12 03-Aug-12

13-Aug-12 17-Aug-12

27-Aug-12 31-Aug-12

10-Sep-12 14-Sep-12

24-Sep-12 28-Sep-12

08-Oct-12 12-Oct-12

22-Oct-12 26-Oct-12

05-Nov-12 09-Nov-12

19-Nov-12 23-Nov-12

03-Dec-12 07-Dec-12

17-Dec-12 21-Dec-12

31-Dec-12 04-Jan-13

17YACHT LA PINTA

ABOUT YACHT LA PINTA

For the ultimate expedition adventure in the Galápagos Islands, La Pinta offers a full week itinerary with intense days of wildlife exploration and relaxing evenings with top-notch service, excellent dining and the comfort of exceptionally-ample and comfortable accommodations for a Galápagos vessel.

Capacity: 48 guestsUnbranded website: www.yachtlapinta.com

FACILITIES

•Centralairconditioningwith individual controls in each cabin.•In-roomsafedepositbox•Telephonewithdirectinternationaldialing•Multi-channelsoundsystemfor closed-circuit music and connectionforpersonaliPods,MP3,MP4.•NaturalHistoryLibrary

•Boutique

•Satelliteinternetconnectionandwireless in designated areas•FitnessRoom•Jacuzzi•Snorkelingequipment•Wetsuits•Seakayaks•Glass-bottomboat

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Type of Vessel: MotorYachtElectricity: 110-220 Volts 50Hz.Engines: 2DEUTZmodelSBA8M1275HPNavigation Equipment: Gyrocompass, Automatic Pilot, radar, and GPSSafety Certificates: (SOLAR,STCW,MARPOL,ISMCODE12)Fire Detector: Automatic with control from the bridge.Life Jackets: In each cabinInflatable life raft: 2 x 50-man and 6 x 25-man Landing Craft: 4 Pumar inflatable + glass bottom boat Owner: ETICA/MetropolitanTouringDecks: 3(Sundeck,Cabindeck,Maindeck)Crew: 24Naturalist: 3(includingExpeditionManager)Medical Officer: Permanently on board

Outside Sky bar

Triple Cabins

Dining Room Boutique

Doctor’s OfficeReception Area

Double Cabins

Jacuzzi

Natural History LibraryConference Room

ObservationLounge & Bar

Exercise Room

DECK PLANS

Boat Deck

Cabin Deck

Main Deck

CABINDISTRIBUTION

Double Cabin17.6 m2/ 189 sq. ft.

Triple Cabin23.04 m2/ 247.75 sq. ft.

10.5 ft / 3.2 m

18 ft / 5.5 m

15.74 ft / 4.8 m

15.74 ft / 4.8 m

18 ITINERARIES 2012 www.yachtlapinta.com

TRIPLE CABIN

DININGROOM

OBSERVATION LOUNGE & BAR RECEPTION & BOUTIQUE JACUZZI

SUN DECK

INTERCONNECTING-CABIN DOUBLE CABIN

NATURAL HISTORY LIBRARY

Documents

YOUR GUIDE TO GALPAGOS ITINERARIES 2012