Palace Tours - Luxury Tours
Collection
20 Wall Street, Princeton, New Jersey
08540 USA Telephone: +1-800-7245120
Call Us 1-800-724-5120
Cruise : Visions of Paradise aboard Treasures of the Galapagos
Learn what makes most beautiful islands in the world truly spectacular. Spend five days sailing through the
Galapagos on board a luxurious yacht, dropping anchor and visiting some of the greatest spots that this
tropical paradise has to offer. Hear all about the impressive history of the Galapagos and learn about
conservation efforts underway as you visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Interpretation
Center on San Cristobal Island. Lounge on the white-sand beaches of Cerro Brujo and take in the
spectacular views from atop Bartolome Island. Meet some of the world's most exotic wildlife up close, from
white-tipped sharks to blue-footed boobies to sea lions, giant tortoises, and more. Stop wondering what
makes the Galapagos Islands so special: Come and find out for yourself!
Highlights:
Walk along Sullivan Bay and observe what happens when volcanic flows reach the beautiful shores!
Enjoy a tropical safari for such diverse species as frigate birds, Galapagos penguins, land and
marine iguanas, and many more!
Swim, snorkel, or stretch out on the sands of the Galapagos' countless beaches!
Treasures of Galapagos Ship
Treasures of Galapagos
Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunday: Begin your journey through the Galapagos Islands!
PLEASE NOTE: All itineraries are approximate and subject to change based on availability and conditions
at the destination.
Take a breath of fresh air as you land in some of the most beautiful islands in the world! After lunch at noon
and a dry landing, hike up to the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about the impressive efforts
underway to preserve the Galapagos' environment and ecosystem, as well as visit with some famous giant
tortoises (Duration: 2 hours; Degree of difficulty: Easy). Dinner will be served in the evening.
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Famous Giant Tortoises
Day 2 - Saturday: Explore the lava formations of Sullivan Bay and enjoy the views from Bartolome
Island!
After breakfast, visit the geological marvel of Sullivan Bay on the southeast side of Santiago Island,
accessible either by dry landing via the rocky shore or wet landing on the white sand beach. Hike along a
scenic trail approximately 1.5 km long (Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes; Degree of difficulty: Moderate) to
explore an area covered by wavy pahoehoe lava flows formed over 100 years ago. The characteristic
appearance of this beach comes from years of underground lava movement, rapid cooling, and other
eruptions morphing the original magma, which cooled flat.
In the afternoon, after lunch, take a wet landing to visit Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome Island for some
swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear water of the nearby beaches. Later on, a dry landing will begin
your journey to the viewpoint of Bartolome, accessible after a 30-40 minute climb up a wooden staircase,
where you can enjoy a magnificent look out over the entire island (Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes; Degree of
difficulty: Moderate). Dinner will be served in the evening.
Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome
Island
Day 3 - Sunday: Spend a day getting to know the wildlife on North Seymour Island and Mosquera Islet!
A dry landing after breakfast brings you to North Seymour Island, where the stunning wildlife of the
Galapagos await you! Go on a tropical safari for blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, fork-tailed gulls, tems,
playful sea lions, lava lizards, and mighty land iguanas while also enjoying the unique Palo Santo trees
(Duration: Approx. 2 hours; Degree of difficulty: Moderate). Lunch will be served at noon.
On Mosquera, accessible by wet landing, enjoy the spectacular terrain as beaches and reefs or rock and
coral come together. Lava rocks dot the perimeter of the island's beaches, and countless animals make
their homes here: The islet has one of the largest populations of exuberant sea lions, several species of
shorebirds, and--if you're lucky--you can observe orcas off the coast! (Duration: Approx. 1 hour; Degree of
difficulty: Easy). Dinner will be served in the evening.
See the blue- footed boobies
Day 4 - Monday: Enjoy the flora and fauna of South Plazas Island and unwind on the beach at Cerro
Brujo!
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After breakfast in the morning, take a dry landing to the lively South Plazas Island! Meet colonies of sea
lions and land iguanas, and walk along the shore for some great views of nesting birds. The real highlight of
the morning is the beautiful view from atop the cliffs. Opuntiacactus also grow here, and the local flora will
change into different resplendent colors depending upon the season (Duration: 2 hours; Degree of difficult:
Easy). Lunch will be served at noon.
Then, after a wet landing in the afternoon, Cerro Brujo offers you a beautiful beach of white croal where you
can swim, snorkel, and watch sea lions and birds in their natural habitats. Nearby, you can also see bluefooted boobies, Nazca boobies, herons, frigate birds, and shore birds (Duration: Approx. 2 hours; Degree
of difficulty: Easy). Dinner will be served in the evening.
Sea Lions
Day 5 - Tuesday: Farewell, Galapagos!
Enjoy breakfast and a dry landing to the Interpretation Center on San Cristobal Island, where you will learn
all about the evolution of the Galapagos, beginning with its formation from underwater volcanic activity, her
unique wildlife, and her history of conservation (Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes; Degree of difficulty: Easy).
Later, you will proceed to San Cristobal Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador!
Treasures of Galapagos Ship
Destination Information
Bartolome Island
Bartolomé Island is a volcanic islet just off the east coast of Santiago Island. This island is one of the few that are
home to the Galapagos penguin.
North Seymour Island
North Seymour is a small island near to Baltra Island in the Galapagos Islands. It was formed by uplift of a submarine
lava formation. The whole island is covered with low, bushy vegetation.
San Cristóbal Island
It bears the name of the patron saint of seafarers, "St. Christopher". This is the first island in the Galapagos
Archipelago Charles Darwin visited during his voyage on the Beagle. This islands hosts frigate birds, sea lions, giant
tortoises, blue- and red-footed boobies, tropicbirds, marine iguanas, dolphins and swallow-tailed gulls. Its vegetation
includes Calandrinia galapagos, Lecocarpus darwinii, and trees such as Lignum vitae. The largest freshwater lake in
the archipelago, Laguna El Junco, is located in the highlands of San Cristóbal. The capital of the province of
Galápagos, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, lies at the southern tip of the island.
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Santa Cruz Island
Santa Cruz Island is one of the Galápagos Islands with an area of 986 square kilometres and a maximum altitude of
864 metres. Situated in the center of the archipelago, Santa Cruz is the second largest island after Isabela.
South Plaza Island
It is named in honor of a former president of Ecuador, General Leonidas Plaza. The flora of South Plaza includes
Opuntia cactus and Sesuvium plants, which form a reddish carpet on top of the lava formations. Iguanas (land,
marine and some hybrids of both species) are abundant, and large numbers of birds can be observed from the cliffs
at the southern part of the island, including tropic birds and swallow-tailed gulls.
Price Chart
All Rates in US$ per person including ALL taxes and surcharges
Group Tour Rates
Class
Dates
Single Rate
Double Rate
Triple Rate
For departures December 2,2016
through December 30,2016
US$ 4,662
US$ 2,825
N/A
For departures December 2,2016
through December 30,2016
US$ 6,061
US$ 3,673
N/A
Junior Suite
Ocean View Suite
Departures
Dec 2016
2,9,16,23,30
If you have any questions about prices, please feel free to submit a request online via the link above or to
give us a call at 1-888-LUX RAIL (589-7245).This is a perfect extension tour for any Tren Crucero journeys.
INCLUSIONS:
All transfers to and from the airport as well as to and from the cruise vessel to excursions;
accommodations on board the cruise vessel for the duration of your tour; all meals on board, as
described in the itinerary; complimentary water, coffee, and tea; excursions and activities, as
described in the itinerary as well as the services of an English-speaking guide; snorkeling equipment.
EXCLUSIONS:
Airfare (Domestic or international) to and from Ecuador as well as to and from the Galapagos Islands;
visa fees; travel insurance fees; beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic; gratuities; $100
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee per person (Payable in cash upon the time of arrival in the
Galapagos Islands); $20 Transit Control Card per person (Payable in cash upon the time of arrival in
the Galapagos Islands); wetsuits (Available for rent for $35 on 7-day cruises and $25 on 5-day
cruises); any items or services of a personal nature, such as souvenirs; any items not specifically
described in the tour itinerary.
Unless specifically mentioned, any pre- or post-tour accommodations, transfers to and from hotels at
the beginning and end of the tour, tour extensions, or airfare are not included in the price of your
journey, but can be arranged for an additional fee.
All Ecuadorian citizens participating in this excursion must pay an additional tax equivalent to 12% of
their total tour price.
Travel Tips & FAQ's
General Information
On-Board Facilities
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The Treasures of the Galapagos cruise vessel features nine cabins: One Ocean View Master Suite (36 square
meters in size) and eight junior suite cabins (18 square meters in size). All cabins include a private bathroom,
hot water, personalized air conditioning, a security box, and a two square meter balcony (The Ocean View
Master Suite includes two balconies).
The cruise vessel also includes several luxurious areas for socialization, including two bars, three solariums, a
library with a TV/DVD area, a Jacuzzi, a lounge, and a dining room.
Staff Service
Treasures of the Galapagos features a bilingual (English and Spanish) crew of eight members in addition to a
level-III certified naturalist guide, who will join you on all off-board excursions as described in the itinerary.
Electricity
Ecuador uses 110 V electrical current. Guests whose devices do not run on 110 V current must supply their
own international adapters.
Visa and Travel Documents
As per international law, you must have a visa in order to enter Ecuador to begin your trip. While Palace Tours
does not provide visas, we can help by providing you with all the necessary information you need to
successfully obtain a visa to Ecuador.
Insurance (Personal and Otherwise):
Palace Tours strongly recommends the purchase of adequate travel insurance in your country of origin prior to
arrival to cover injury, illness, death, loss of luggage or effects, or cancellation.
Health Considerations
Ecuador does not require a yellow fever vaccination, and the nation has no yellow fever or malaria alerts at
any location at this time.
Palace Tours strongly recommends you consult your physician for any personal health advice based on your
travel itinerary.
Pre- and Post-Tour Accommodations
Unless specifically mentioned, airfare (Domestic or international) to or from the Galapagos Islands and to or
from Ecuador, accommodations before or after your tour, transfers to or from airports, and tour extensions are
not included in the price of your journey, but can be arranged for an additional fee.
Off-Board Excursions
During off-board scheduled excursions, as described in the itinerary, you will enjoy the services of a bilingual
(English and Spanish) level-III certified naturalist guide. Please feel free to ask the guide any questions you
may have, discuss any concerns, etc. Guides are there to ensure you are safe and having the best possible
Galapagos experience!
Transfers to and from the cruise vessel during excursions take place with panga boats, and these landings can
either by dry or wet and are indicated as such in the itinerary.
Due to environmental regulations, docks are not available for landings or departures on any uninhabited
islands you will visit as part of your tour.
All itineraries are approximate and subject to change based on availability and conditions at the destination.
Weather
In the Galapagos Islands, the weather is relatively stable throughout the year.
The cool, dry season lasts from July to December and brings overcast conditions and choppier waters.
Temperatures range from 19° to 25° C, with an average sea temperature of 21° C.
The warm, wet season lasts from January to June and brings sunny skies and the occasional heavy rain
shower. Temperatures range from 22° to 27° C, with an average sea temperature of 24° C (Though it has
been known to dip lower).
Frequently Asked Questions
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When is the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are a perfect destination to visit at any time of year!
What should I pack with me on my trip to the Galapagos Islands?
In terms of clothing, we recommend comfortable walking shoes or boots with strong traction, "Teva" style
sandals for hiking on beaches or wet landings, a bathing suit, a light-to-medium fleece jacket for cool or breezy
evenings, shorts (Quick-dry, if possible), T-shirts, sunglasses (Preferably polarized), and a hat or cap.
We also recommend you pack your travel documents, such as your passport, a camera (With batteries and
plenty of film/memory), a basic first-aid kit (Band-Aids, aspirin, seasickness pills, stomach-settling pills), and
cash (Preferably in U.S. dollars). You should also pack a backpack for any off-board excursions so that you
can carry any essentials you will need for the day.
This list is by no means exhaustive, but merely a suggestion to get you started.
What is the currency?
Ecuador's national currency is the U.S. dollar, so it is legal tender for any transactions you may make.
Please note that all transactions you make on board the cruise vessel, such as for an alcoholic beverage or a
wetsuit rental, must be conducted in cash.
What is the time difference in Ecuador?
The Galapagos Islands are on GMT-6 (The same as Chicago). They do not observe Daylight Savings' Time,
so during the months of April-October, they are on GMT-7 (The same as Denver). They are one hour behind
mainland Ecuador.
How many airlines fly to the Galapagos Islands? How many airports are there?
Only two airports in the Galapagos Islands receive flights from mainland Ecuador: Baltra Airport on the island
of Santa Cruz and San Cristobal Airport on the island of the same name. There is also a small airport on the
island of Isabela in operation to receive the occasional small flight from Santa Cruz.
The Galapagos Islands are serviced by LAN, TAME, and Aerogal (Now owned by Avianca).
Do I need to be in good physical condition to visit the Galapagos Islands?
Guests on the Treasures of the Galapagos itinerary can expect several hours of gentle walking each day on
paths which may be unpaved and at varying slopes, so guests should have a level of fitness appropriate to
participate. Please ask any questions you may have related to fitness as an impediment to participation at the
time of booking.
Certain treks or activities, like snorkeling, may require a greater degree of fitness.
Will I be able to use my cell phone or access the internet?
Due to their isolated nature, cell phone and internet service will be limited on uninhabited islands.
Can my children accompany me on Treasures of the Galapagos?
Children under 12 years of age are allowed on board Treasures of the Galapagos excursions and pay 40% of
the adult fare.
I have dietary restrictions. Can I be accommodated?
Guests with dietary restrictions are required to provide advance notice so that we can make special
arrangements. Please ask any questions or indicate any dietary restrictions you may have at the time of
booking.
Will I be able to do any laundry?
Laundry service is not available on board Treasures of the Galapagos.
Should I leave a tip?
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Tips are not included in the total price of your journey and may be left as per the discretion of the guest.
Terms & Conditions
PAYMENT TERMS:
30% of total tour cost is due at the time of booking, with the remaining balance of 70% is due no later than 68 days
prior to the tour's departure date.
If a customer wishes to change their tour dates and their original departure date is more than 68 days away, then
they will be charged a $200 fee per person.
If a customer wishes to change their tour dates and their original departure date is less than 68 days away, then
relevant cancellation fees will apply.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
Palace Tours will issue a refund but charge a cancellation fee equal to 15% of the total tour cost if service is
cancelled more than 68 days prior to departure.
Palace Tours will not issue a refund if the tour is cancelled less than 67 days prior to departure, and customers
will still be required to pay 100% of their original total tour cost.
If any customer is a "no-show," than they will not be issued a refund and they will still be responsible for paying
100% of the total tour cost.
When applicable, Palace Tours will charge an administrative fee equal to 15% of the total tour cost for any
refunds conducted by wire transfer or credit card.
ITINERARIES:
All itineraries are approximate and subject to change based on availability and conditions at the destination.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the losses incurred in case of cancellation. For
information on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance.
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Palace Tours Contact Information
ON THE WEB:
www.palacetours.com
BY E-MAIL:
[email protected]
BY PHONE:
1-800-724-5120
USA:
Princeton, NJ: 609-580-1372
New York, NY: 212-920-2543
Houston, TX: 832-446-2709
International:
United Kingdom: 0330 808 4654
Australia: 1800-156-671
New Zealand: 0800-442-510
BY FAX:
1-609-683-9772
BY POSTAL MAIL:
Palace Tours Ltd.
20 Wall Street
Princeton, New Jersey 08540
DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICE
Please call ahead for hours and appointments!
By Car:
From Princeton area:
Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park office
complex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.
From points North:
Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see
signs for “Downtown Princeton & Shopping”. Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for
approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &
follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.
Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will
pass through a traffic circle – follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles.
Turn left onto Wall Street.
From points South:
Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route
138 West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North
toward Trenton. Follow directions below.
Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and merge
onto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right on
Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn
right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) & follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.
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By train:
Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors
can take a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one-car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride
takes about 5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be
sure to purchase a rail ticket to “Princeton” for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.
Our office is a 10-minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).
By bus:
Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit’s 605 Montgomery
Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.
*For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office.
Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.
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