In 1967, Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first-ever expedition cruise to Galápagos for international travelers, ushering in a new era of exploration for the archipelago. That voyage laid the foundation for ecotourism on the islands and initiated a rich tradition of taking guests deep into an astonishing wildlife sanctuary to discover it from every possible angle.

Although National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has many journeys to the Galápagos (see all Galápagos journeys here), the Galápagos Escape itinerary is one of the most flexible—it hits on the highlights of the islands, but is shorter (7 or 8 days, instead of the 10 days required for other itineraries).

As with all National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions voyages, you will explore alongside expert naturalists, certified photo instructors and undersea specialists. You’ll be part of a legacy more than 60 years in the making—rooted in conservation and driven by curiosity. And with more ways to sail, you can choose the itinerary, ship and timing that’s right for you. Explore the itinerary below and contact me with any questions.

• Experience all the Galápagos offers and enjoy the flexibility of multiple weekly departures—on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

• Snorkel and kayak among colorful fish, sea turtles, penguins and playful sea lions, and walk among colonies of wildlife and seabirds unfazed by your presence.

• Maximize your time in the islands with options for exploration every day including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and more.

• Add a three-night post-expedition extension in Quito, Ecuador.

• Have more time? Take back-to-back voyages and see more of the archipelago—because no single site in Galápagos National Park can be visited by the same ship more than once in two weeks, consecutive voyages call on different islands.

• With National Geographic Explorers-in-Training, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will learn about this fascinating part of the world—from “sneezing” iguanas to giant tortoises.

The National Geographic Islander ll sails year-round in the Galápagos Islands and elevates the guest experience to an entirely new level. Accommodating just 48 travelers, she sails with a 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio.

The National Geographic Islander II carries a fleet of kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, a glass-bottom boat, an expanded flotilla of versatile Zodiacs, complete snorkel gear for adults and children, a video microscope and a Science Hub.

Contributing to the fully immersive Ecuadorian experience on board are Ecuadorian staff and locally sourced and sustainable farm- and ocean-to-table cuisine, as well as artisan spa elements and handcrafted textiles, art and décor, all regionally crafted.

Launched in 2001 from the same shipyard as The National Geographic Orion, The National Geographic Gemini is a highly maneuverable, shallow-draft expedition ship purpose built to explore remote areas with ease.

Sailing year round with a maximum of 48 guests, The National Geographic Gemini offers guests the largest suites in the Galápagos fleet, cabins with balconies and a mix of doubles, solos and triples.

Carrying a fleet of quick-to-deploy Mark VI Zodiacs, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, the ship is well-equipped for exploring the islands and marine reserve. It is also stocked with snorkeling gear for all guests, including shortie wetsuits.