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galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Review of the Origin, Theory and Evolve cruise in the Galapagos.

I had the chance to go on a cruise on the Theory boat in the Galapagos, and this is my review of the trip with lots of practical tips and photos of my one-week adventure. My trip was in March which is considered the rainy and warmer season in the Galapagos

Review of the Origin, Theory, and Evolve ship in the Galapagos

Three similar boats – named Origin, Theory, and Evolve – offer cruises around the Galapagos. They are closer to a luxury yacht than a large cruise ship with only 10 cabins on each boat. When I booked the trip, I didn’t know which boat I would be on, but it doesn’t matter as all three boats are identical. The advantage of having three similar boats doing the same itinerary is that guests can be grouped according to their profiles. For example, during my trip, families with small children were grouped on one boat, families with teenagers on another, and the third boat was reserved for adults only. I stayed on the Theory boat.

The three boats were designed with great care and attention to ensure passengers have a comfortable and luxurious journey. The interior designer went above and beyond to create a cozy and visually stunning space. I enjoyed everything. The boat design provides an unforgettable water experience with panoramic windows, open space, and comfortable seating. The boat feels very spacious with plenty of seating area and lounge chairs. It was always easy to find a quiet corner. It is also easy to navigate with large staircases and automated doors.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Review of the main deck on Origin, Theory, and Evolve.

The main deck is the vibrant center of the boat, housing both the lounge and dining room. Upon entering the dining room, I was immediately struck by its spaciousness and elegant decor. The well-appointed dining area creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for delicious meals.

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The lounge on the main floor is a warm and inviting space where travelers gather for briefings and socializing. The comfortable seating arrangements and inviting ambiance make it relaxing. The lounge area was also used for briefings. They have a TV in each of the four corners, enabling the naturalists to share stories about the itinerary and the animals we encountered during the trip.

Tip: The whole area has strong AC for those who like it cool. Otherwise, bring a sweater.

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The bar and the tea/coffee station are between the lounge and the dining rooms. A selection of teas and coffees was always available. They also had delicious Ecuadorian chocolate and snacks.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

The bar has a very large selection of drinks included in the cruise fare. The beer selection was very impressive. I especially enjoyed the craft beers from the Galapagos. The bartender created delicious cocktails. The selection of drinks included was large but if you want more premium wines or liquor, they are available for an extra fee.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

The boat has a water refill station. Each passenger is given a metal water bottle to use during the trip. By providing fresh and clean water throughout the day, the boat significantly reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles, a small but impactful step towards protecting the environment.

Tip: The drinks selection is awesome. The only area that left me a bit disappointed was the tea selection. If you are a tea drinker and like fancy teas, you might want to bring a few teabags with you

The back deck provides a nice seating area. Just below that area is another outdoor area with large steps to get into the Zodiacs easily

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Review of the Top Deck on Origin, Theory, and Evolve.

The top deck of the Theory boat in the Galapagos Islands is my absolute favorite spot. It is entirely outdoors, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. The top deck provides a 360-degree view of the islands, giving you a panoramic perspective of this incredible destination. Whether you’re admiring the unique flora and fauna or gazing out at the endless ocean, the view from the top deck is mesmerizing.

The Sunsail provides shade for a large part of the top deck, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal or relax with a book. At the front of the boat, you’ll find a jacuzzi that offers the perfect opportunity to unwind while enjoying the stunning surroundings. Imagine soaking in the warm water, feeling the gentle breeze on your skin, and taking in the sights and sounds of this pristine paradise.

If you prefer lounging in the sun, a few comfortable sunbeds are available to bask in the glorious Galapagos sunshine.

Watching the sunset is one of the most magical experiences on the top deck. The deck becomes an enchanting place to witness this natural spectacle as the golden hues paint the sky.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

There is a full bar, and the crew often served snacks and cocktails at that time of the day. Most passengers gathered there for a drink or more and let the colors of the sunset captivate the senses. The bar is fully equipped to serve any drink you desire. Whether you’re in the mood for a tropical cocktail, a refreshing mocktail, or a classic beverage, the skilled bartenders on the Theory boat will craft the perfect drink to complement your experience on the top deck.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Review of the Gym on the Origin, Theory, and Evolve

Despite its small and intimate size, this boat boasts an onboard gym. While not spacious, the gym is equipped with a variety of machines and weights that cater to different exercise routines. Whether you’re into cardio or strength training, you can easily find equipment that suits your preference. The gym may be compact, but it’s a great way to stay fit and healthy while enjoying your time on the water.

Near the Gym is a library with an impressive selection of books about the Galapagos

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galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Review of the cabins on the theory cruise in the Galapagos

All the cabins on the theory are the same and are located below deck. As you step into the cabin, the first thing that catches your eye is the massive panoramic windows that cover the entire wall’s length. They provide an incredible view from your bed, allowing you to enjoy the exploration of the Galapagos Islands’ unparalleled ecosystem.

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Luxurious Cabin Design

The cabins are spacious and elegantly designed. They have a vanity with a lighted mirror and a sectional closet with drawers for storage and preparation needs. The design is focused on aesthetics and functionality, ensuring a luxurious experience. The bed is large and comfortable, with a high-quality mattress that feels like sleeping on a cloud and fluffy, supportive pillows that guarantee a restful night’s sleep. In summary, this bed left me feeling pampered and refreshed in the morning.

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Technological comfort

The cabins are equipped with modern technological amenities for your comfort and convenience. I liked being able to control the natural light with electronic curtains. Fast-charging ports and a docking station are available to keep all your devices fully charged for the day’s activities.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )Each cabin is designed to provide a comfortable and modern environment with individual climate control. The cabins feature a flat-screen TV with a selection of films, although personally, I preferred admiring the stunning landscape through the panoramic window.

To start your day, you will have access to a Nespresso machine, a tea kettle, and a refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Prepared for Exploration

Origin, Theory, and Evolve provided us with equipment for the Galapagos adventures. This includes exploration gear such as binoculars for each cabin, walking sticks, and a full range of snorkeling equipment, including wet suits of different sizes, full-foot flippers, masks, and snorkels. Additionally, guests are provided with a reusable metal water bottle for eco-friendly hydration throughout their journey.

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Ensuite Bathroom with a view

The bathroom is designed to offer modernity and brightness. It has a walk-in rainfall shower surrounded by plush towels, bathrobes, slippers, and a hairdryer. Shampoo and soap are provided. The large window in the shower allows plenty of light and an uninterrupted view of the spectacular landscape of the Galapagos, so you can shower without missing a minute of natural beauty.

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Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve boat ( of )

Impeccable Service

The cabin was cleaned and serviced several times a day. Every time I returned from a meal or an excursion, I noticed that my cabin had been serviced. It was kept in immaculate condition throughout my stay. Additionally, laundry services are available from Monday to Friday.

Overview of the Internet on the Origin, Theory, and Evolve

Guests can enjoy free 24/7 Wi-Fi during their cruise, which is available via satellite communication. The connection uses Starlink, which is quite reliable and even supports video calls. Passengers will receive an internet code from Origin, Theory, and Evolve that can be used to connect up to two devices for the entire trip.

The Wifi was good throughout the whole boat, even in the downstairs cabin.

Tip: Please note that phone signal is limited during the itinerary and is only available in Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. Therefore, if you need to make calls or be reachable, it’s recommended that you use mobile applications such as WhatsApp or Skype. 

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Review of the Food on the Origin, Theory, and Evolve Galapagos Cruise.

Origin, Theory, and Evolve are renowned for their exceptional dining experience. Their food is one of the highlights of the cruise, and for good reason. The chef is highly skilled and knowledgeable, and they invest heavily in the quality of their ingredients. From the freshest produce to the finest cuts of meat, every dish is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served every morning at 8 a.m. in a buffet style with plenty of options to choose from. Fresh fruits, oatmeal, and cereals are always available, making it a great way to start the day with some healthy choices. When it comes to beverages, four different kinds of fruit juices are offered, providing a refreshing variety.

The best part of the breakfast experience is the hot dishes that change every day. There are around five or six options to choose from, and it’s always exciting to see what delicious options they have in store. From classic sausages and bacon to indulgent treats like Nutella pancakes or ham and cheese pastries, there is something for everyone’s taste buds.

One of the things that I really appreciated about the breakfast spread was that they usually had an Ecuadorian option. This was a fantastic opportunity to sample the local cuisine and get a taste of the authentic flavors, adding a nice touch to the breakfast experience.

Eggs are also available upon request, and you can have them prepared just the way you like them. This is a nice option, especially for those who prefer their eggs cooked a certain way.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Lunch

Similar to breakfast, lunch was served buffet style, providing guests with a wide variety of options. and as for breakfst, there was a large selection of dishes available. Six different dishes were available each day, providing plenty of options to satisfy various preferences. The menu included two or three vegetable dishes, so even vegetarians will be satisfied.

The restaurant’s daily changing menu was exciting and surprising. Standout dishes included lobster, tuna, and jerk chicken, demonstrating the chefs’ exceptional culinary skills and providing a delightful blend of tastes and textures. The tacos, in particular, were outstanding.

For dessert, the restaurant offered a cake or pastry that provided a sweet ending to the meal for those with a sweet tooth. In addition, fresh fruits were always available.

Diner

The diners were a bit more formal. Origin, Theory, and Evolve pride themselves on the quality of the food, and it was even more apparent in diners. For the main course, we were presented with a choice between a fish dish or a meat option, both expertly prepared by the kitchen’s talented chefs. The presentation of the food is as impressive as its taste, with each dish carefully crafted and beautifully arranged on the plate.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Service Overview on the Origin, Theory, and Evolve Galapagos Cruise.

The Galapagos Islands themselves are an extraordinary destination, but the staff aboard the cruise elevates the experience. With 13 dedicated individuals looking after us, their commitment to our comfort and enjoyment was evident.

The chefs played a crucial role in our daily experiences, offering impressive food in such a remote setting.

Our guides, Jose and Fabricio, boast over 20 years of experience in the Galapagos. They shared their wealth of knowledge, making every moment on the islands educational and mesmerizing.

The room attendant kept the boat and our cabins pristine. I have never been on a ship where your cabin is turned down so many times in a day. I think he cleaned the cabins four times a day. Every time we came back from an excursion, the cabin was done. On our way back from every excursion, we were greeted onboard with a towel and a warm drink!

The barmen, Joshua, Christian, and Guillermo, whipped delicious cocktails for us. They knew my preferred beverages within a few days and would proactively bring them to me during dinner. The captain, Peter, and the concierge, Estefania, kept everything running like clockwork. Despite organizing four activities daily, everything was on time and with no queuing. This is also the benefit of being on a small boat.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

How to know if your sunscreen is reef-safe?

Many commercial sunscreens contain harmful ingredients that can damage coral reefs. If you plan to get in the water, it’s best to avoid using sunscreen altogether since zodiac rides are usually short.

However, if you must use sunscreen, please make sure to choose a reef-safe option. You can identify these by checking the ingredients label for titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which are generally recognized as safe. Unsafe ingredients to avoid include PABA and trolanlminevsalicytate. Some countries have also banned Octinoxate and Oxybenzone.

Update: Since my trip, it has now become a national park rule to use reef-safe sunscreen. The use of sunscreen containing the chemicals oxybenzone, octinoxate, and others harmful to marine ecosystems is regulated and restricted to sustain and protect the coral reefs.

Review of the itinerary on the Galapagos Origin, Theory, and Evolve cruise

The Origin Therory and Evolve offer 2 different itineraries that rotate weekly. “Beach and Bays” and “Volcanic Wonders”.If you have the time, you can do two back-to-back cruises, which is a splendid way to see what the Galapagos offers.

The main advantage of being on a small boat like the Theory is that all the passengers can go on excursions together, allowing you to see more of the Galapagos. During my trip, we had four excursions a day, which included hiking on one of the islands, snorkeling, or a Zodiac ride along the coast to look for animals. One day, we also had the option to kayak or paddleboard. We also got to relax on the beach and swim a few times during the week.

I talked to a friend who had gone on a Galapagos cruise on the Silversea cruise ship during the same week. Since it was a much bigger boat ( 100 passengers), they needed to organize passengers into groups, and on most days, they only offered two excursions instead of the four offered by the Origin, Theory, and Evolve.

Which itinerary should you choose for the Galapagos Origin, Theory, and Evolve cruise?

I was on the “Beaches and Bays, Southern and Central Route” itinerary. I think this itinerary is better for exploring various landscapes and enjoying a relaxing time on a beach. The other itinerary, “Volcanic Wonders,” has more lava flow landscapes and maybe better snorkeling. I did a week of diving with the Galapagos Sky in that area, and the diving was stunning, so I would expect the snorkeling to also be world-class.

Find out more about my experience and day-by-day itinerary for the “beach and bay” itinerary below.

Day 1 – Exploring the ship and sunset cruising

I arrived in the Galapagos after taking a ferry from Santa Cruz Island. I decided to spend a few days in the Galapagos before embarking on the cruise, and you can read about my pre-trip and stay at Enchanted Lodge here. Finding the boat was initially confusing because I didn’t fly with the rest of the group on the recommended flight, but it worked out in the end.  The pier from which the boat departed was exciting, full of sea lions and pelicans. I was assigned to the Theory boat, and we went to the boat on a short zodiac ride from the pier

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

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Once I stepped on board, a sense of relaxation washed over me. We were greeted with a glass of wine and a refreshing cold towel. The staff promptly showed us to our elegant cabins. Soon after, it was time for our first lunch together.

The afternoon was delightfully laid-back, starting with a boat and security briefing.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Around 5 pm, we set sail towards Kicker’s Rock. The crew prepared tasty snacks and refreshing cocktails as the ship circled the rock during sunset. It was a perfect opportunity for all the passengers to mingle and get to know each other. The boat can hold a maximum of 20 passengers, so getting to know everyone onboard is easy.

The Spanish name of the rock is “Sleeping Lion.” Can you see the head of the lion in the picture below? The biologist onboard told us all about the blue-footed boobies and the frigates that populate the island. It had been raining all day, but somehow, the weather cleared, and we witnessed a spectacular sunset.

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Day 2 – Playing with Sealions

Our first exploration day on the cruise ship was a fantastic introduction to the Galapagos. We started by cruising around San Cristobal Island, and our first stop was Cerro Brujo Beach. We walked on the white sandy shores and saw the crystal-clear waters. We put on snorkeling gear and swam with friendly sea lions. Next, we went to Lobos Island, where we swam and played with many sea lions. We saw a heart-melting moment when a baby sea lion was feeding off its mother. We continued our exploration with snorkeling and found a mesmerizing school of thousands of Alamy fish. The sight was unbelievable. There were so many fish that it felt like we were swimming in a sea of shimmering silver. Nature leaves us in awe.

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Afterward, it was time for a zodiac exploration. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans for us, and it started to rain heavily. But that didn’t dampen our spirits. We made our way back to the boat a little earlier than planned, but not before catching a glimpse of the magnificent blue-footed boobies, birds, and frigates with their huge red pouches. The males develop these pouches during mating season, and we were lucky enough to witness a few mating antics.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Day 3 – Blowhole, sea lions, and red iguanas at Española Island

So, on day 3 of our Galapagos adventure, we headed to Española Island. Our original plan was to hike along the coast, but the Galapagos Park management had closed down the island due to the bird flu. Instead, we hopped on a zodiac and cruised along the coast. The first thing that caught our attention was the impressive blowhole. As the waves crashed against the rocks, they created a spectacular explosion of water. It was quite a sight to behold! We couldn’t help but be in awe of the power of nature. Next, we entered a bay and encountered some of the most peculiar iguanas we had ever seen. These guys had red spots on their bodies, which made them stand out even more. Seeing how the Galapagos Islands are home to such unique and diverse wildlife was fascinating. As we continued our journey, we couldn’t miss the playful sea lions and the occasional shark swimming in the crystal-clear waters. It was like being in an underwater paradise. Little did we know that we would return to this spot later for snorkeling.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Unfortunately, when we returned for snorkeling, the tide was low, making it challenging to swim near the coast. Nonetheless, we still managed to spot a few sea lions, three white-tip reef sharks, and even a school of baby barracudas.

After our experience cruising along the coast of Española Island, we were eager to continue our adventure. Our next stop was Gardner Bay, where we also had the opportunity to go snorkeling. We were greeted by a lively and playful group of sea lions as soon as we entered the water. They seemed just as curious about us as we were about them. It was indeed a sight to behold. We spent a whole hour swimming and interacting with these amazing creatures. The sea lions were incredibly agile and graceful underwater. It was as if they were putting on a show just for us. We couldn’t help but be mesmerized by their acrobatic displays and their playful nature. The sea lions would swim towards us and then quickly swim away, inviting us to interact. Being a part of their underwater world was exhilarating, even for a little while. We laughed and smiled as we watched them twirl and spin, effortlessly gliding through the water.

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

The weather didn’t cooperate for the rest of the day on Española Island. Mother Nature can be unpredictable at times, and it seems like the waves were too big for the scheduled kayaking and beach walk activities. With the cancellation of the planned activities and the rain setting in, we just stayed on board. It was an excellent time to catch up with work, families, and friends at home.

Day 4: Pink flamingos and nesting turtles at Floreana Island

Floreana Island was our first chance to hike since the trip began, and it was a wonderfully serene adventure. Behind the beach, we found a remarkable sulfur lagoon, a tranquil spot that contrasts with the usual beach scenery. The lagoon is a habitat for pink flamingos, and seeing them there amidst the calm waters was a beautiful sight. We walked around the lake, quietly observing the flamingos and other indigenous birds. The journey took an unexpected turn when we crossed to the beach on the other side of the island. There, we encountered a sea turtle that had just finished laying her eggs and was returning to the ocean. Watching her efforts to return to the sea was a deeply moving experience. Each laborious step she took was a reminder of the enduring cycle of life and the incredible journeys undertaken by creatures in the wild.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Continuing our adventure on Floreana Island, we went deep-water snorkeling around a nearby rocky islet. The underwater landscape here was a quiet change of pace; the fishes were many but spread out, perhaps due to the gentle currents that day. The tranquility of the water made it easy to appreciate the details of this marine world. Among the highlights of this snorkeling excursion was the sight of a large white-tip shark patrolling the area. Its majestic and serene presence added a thrilling element to our exploration, reminding us of the diversity and balance of life beneath the waves. A baby sea lion chose to join us, playfully interacting for a brief moment. A pelican, seemingly as curious about us as we were about the marine life, landed right next to us. Its close approach allowed us to admire its grace and beauty up close.

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galapagos snorkeling ( of )

After enjoying a delicious lunch onboard the ship (and taking a much-needed nap for myself), we continued our adventure with a zodiac cruise along the coast of Floreana. The gentle journey by water offered us a new vantage point to appreciate the island’s diverse birdlife and the landscapes adorned with endemic cacti unique to the Galapagos.

As the afternoon unfolded, we landed on the beach for a walk, only to find it marked by numerous turtle nesting holes. The sight was a poignant reminder of the cycle of life that played out on these shores, with each hole representing a potential future for the island’s marine turtle population. It was a privilege to tread lightly among these signs of life. The visit to the wooden barrel post office on the beach added another layer to our experience. Engaging in the tradition of leaving a postcard in the hopes that another traveler might deliver it was a charming nod to the explorers of the past. This act of trust and connection, relying on the goodwill of strangers to bridge distances, felt particularly meaningful.

Back on the boat, we watched the sunset from the top deck and enjoyed some delicious snacks

Day 5: Giant tortoise and shopping in Santa Cruz, the Galapagos main island

Going to El Chato Reserve in Santa Cruz, Galapagos, was like entering a lush, green paradise, way different from the other islands we’d seen. It’s a 40-minute bus ride from the pier. We were there to find giant tortoises. They’re super slow, but it’s fantastic to watch them. The Galapagos highland is beautiful, with this fresh, earthy smell and hidden birds singing.

Tip: don’t forget your mosquito repellent. Closed shoes and pants are preferable to avoid the fire ants that bite. (and the bite is painful!)

Giant tortoise Galapagos

After checking out El Chato Reserve and lunch, we went to the Charles Darwin research station. There, we mainly learned about George. George the turtle was a well-known resident of the Galapagos Islands. He was a giant tortoise, one of the largest in the world, and was estimated to be over 100 years old. George lived on Pinta Island, one of the northernmost islands in the Galapagos archipelago. Despite extensive efforts to find a mate for George and preserve his species, he remained the last of his kind, earning his moniker “Lonesome George.” His death in June 2012 marked the extinction of the Pinta Island tortoise. Despite his age and solitary existence, George was a beloved figure on the islands and was an essential symbol of the unique wildlife that calls the Galapagos home.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

We then had some time to explore the town center of Puerto Ayora, the biggest town in the Galapagos, with around 20,000 people. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs or anything else you might need.

Tip: the main supermarket is right by the waterfront, just to the right of the pier.

What’s wild about the town is how many animals are just hanging around, especially near the pier. We saw sea lions and iguanas up close. Plus, pelicans were diving into the water, fishing right in front of us. A fishing boat returned with its daily catch, which was too much for the Pelicans. They offered us a show trying to get some of the fishermen’s catch!

A sea lion decided to sleep on the pier, right in front of where we boarded the zodiac!

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

 

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Day 6 – Paradise Beach and penguins!

This morning, we woke up to a super sunny day, and guess what? The Theory cruise team decided to shake things up by serving breakfast outside on the top deck. Talk about a breakfast with a killer view!

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Bachas Beach looked absolutely wild and stunning, with hundreds of birds flying by – it was like a scene from a movie.

Bachas Beach was a real treat with golden sand and bright turquoise water. As we strolled along the beach, we saw that the sea turtles had been laying their eggs. It was incredible to think we were walking right where they’d been. Then, we made our way to an inland lagoon and spotted six flamingos just doing their thing, chilling in their natural home. After that, we spent more time hanging out on the beach and even went for a swim.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

To continue our Galápagos trip, we headed to Bartolomé Island, hoping to spot some penguins. Our first activity was snorkeling. The water was pretty lively, with strong currents and lots of fish. We saw three penguins from our zodiac boat but didn’t catch any underwater. Still, we did get to see two marble rays, one white-tip shark, and another huge shark that was kind of scary.

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

DCIMGOPROGOPR.JPGAfter that, we hiked up to the top of the island. The lava formations were cool, and the view from up there was amazing. A few young hawks even came to check us out.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

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Later, we took a small zodiac cruise to look for more penguins and birds. We were lucky to see a penguin swimming! When we got back on board, it was time for the pirate party. They played music on the top deck, served cocktails and pizza, and suddenly everyone was dancing. It was a beautiful sunset and a great way to end another fantastic day in the Galápagos.

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Day 7: Iguanas and incredible snorkeling in the north of Santa Cruz

galapagos Origin theory and evolve cruise ( of )

Today, we started by exploring South Plaza Island, a gem among the Galapagos islands known for its narrow and low terrain. Right from the get-go, we saw countless iguanas blending into the landscape yet standing out with their prehistoric demeanor. These iguanas, basking under the sun, were a sight to behold and added a primal touch to the island’s charm. We were also treated to the delightful antics of playful sea lions, and their ease in navigating the cliffs was a marvel to witness. The island’s lush vegetation and vibrant colors painted a beautiful backdrop, enhanced further by the ongoing cactus revegetation program, a testament to the efforts of the national park to preserve the island’s natural beauty.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

In the afternoon, we set off for North Seymour, diving into the deep waters for snorkeling. Though the hammerheads remained elusive, the sea rewarded us with the presence of a white-tip shark and two graceful mobulas. Onshore, a few small fur seals seemed to have found their little paradise on the cliffs. The ocean was alive with various fishes, creating an unforgettable underwater experience.

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

galapagos snorkeling ( of )

While some of our group chose to explore the island on foot, I opted for a final zodiac cruise in search of more fur seals. Our expedition was heartwarming, witnessing a baby sea lion’s attempts to feed from a mother who was less than cooperative. The cliff was adorned with the mating display of frigate birds, their red pouches inflating in a spectacular show of nature’s rituals.

As the day ended, we gathered for cocktails, watching the sun dip below the horizon, a moment of beauty and reflection marking the end of another magnificent day.

Day 8: Time to say goodbye

The last day was bittersweet as we said our goodbyes to the boat, its incredible crew, and the fellow travelers who had become our friends for the week. The small boat journey’s intimacy lets you get to know the other travelers.

Fortunately, my adventure in the Galapagos was set to continue. I had another cruise lined up, ready to explore more of the underwater world with a diving cruise.

With time flying by so quickly, I strongly urge anyone visiting to consider staying longer if possible. With 4 excursions a day, my boat trip was more intense than I expected. I came out tired, but I was happy to have more time to enjoy the Galapagos.

Opting for a second cruise on the Origin, Theory, and Evolve offers a fresh itinerary and new sights. I, however, chose the Galapagos Sky, a boat that belongs to the same company and specializes in diving (you can read my review of that trip here).

Another option is to stay on land in the Galapagos. I stayed at Enchanted Lodge, a plantation on the island of Santa Cruz, and it was the perfect place to be close to nature and relax. Galapagos cruises are exhilarating but intense. So you will be glad to have a few more days to relax in nature before you get home. You can read my review of the Enchanted Galapagos cruise here.

Transitioning to the Galapagos Sky for a week of diving

The seamless transition from the Theory boat to the Galapagos Sky was impressive. By 8:30 am, I was disembarked from the theory and went on a private tour to the highlands of San Cristobal, eager for more discoveries. I really appreciated that the company organized a different tour for me so I wouldn’t have to repeat the same excursions on the 2 cruises.

We visited El Chino Beach and its beautiful viewpoint.

We then had a one-hour walk on a plantation, where I was introduced to the local fruits. I was then driven to the pier and was ready to board the Galapagos sky for my next adventure.

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

Galapagos Therory and evolve day ( of )

In conclusion my review of the Galapagos Cruise Origin, Theory, and Evolve

The Galapagos is one of the most amazing places on earth, where nature still reigns supreme. If you want to experience it in luxury, the Origin, Theory, and Evolve liveaboard is a great option. With up to 4 activities per day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the wildlife. When you get back on the boat, you’ll be treated to a comfortable cabin and delicious food. The small size of the boat also makes it easier to get to know your fellow passengers and enjoy sunset cocktails. I truly enjoyed my week on the Galapagos Origin, Theory, and Evolve and would love to travel with them again.

To book your trip, you can check their website here.

If you’re looking for more information about the Galapagos, you can also read my review of the diving cruise on the Galapagos Sky.

And if you want to extend your stay on the islands, consider Enchanted Lodge, located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.

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