Full-Day Marine Odyssey
• Flexible Cancellation

The Grand Circle:
180° Santa Cruz Expedition

Navigate a semi-circular route around Santa Cruz Island. A breathtaking journey connecting the volcanic landscapes of Daphne Major with the underwater paradises of Pinzón Island.

Departure08:45 AM

Duration8 – 9 Hours

Group Size12 Travelers

Base IslandSanta Cruz

The Experience

The 180° Santa Cruz Tour is arguably the most diverse day trip in the archipelago. This semicircular navigation allows you to witness the dramatic contrast between the central islands. From the deep blue waters surrounding the volcanic cone of Daphne Major to the sheltered, wildlife-rich bays of Pinzón (or Dum islet), this tour is a masterclass in Galapagos biodiversity. Expect close encounters with whitetip reef sharks, sea lions, and marine iguanas, while admiring the aerial displays of blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds against the horizon.

Your Adventure Itinerary

08:20 AM — Gathering & Boarding

Meet our team at the central office in Puerto Ayora. We’ll transfer you to the pier for boarding. The day begins with a 1-hour scenic sail towards the central archipelago.

10:00 AM — Pinzón / Dum Islet (Snorkeling Focus)

Dive into the clear depths of Penguin Bay or Dum Islet. This area is a hotspot for sea turtles, sharks, and playful sea lions. The underwater visibility here is world-class.

12:30 PM — Lunch & Coastal Relaxation

Enjoy a fresh lunch on board. We then head to a pristine landing site like Playa Eden, Bahía Borrero, or Palmitas (subject to the day’s itinerary). Relax on the white sand and enjoy the unique coastal flora.

02:30 PM — Daphne Major & Return

Navigate around the iconic Daphne Major cone for bird watching. Depending on the season (Aug-Nov), we might spot manta rays near the surface before returning to Puerto Ayora.

What’s Included

✓ Certified Naturalist Guide (Eng/Esp)
✓ Onboard Lunch & Refreshments
✓ Professional Snorkel Gear
✓ Wetsuit & Fresh Towels
✓ Pier Transfers

Not Included

✕ Alcoholic Beverages & Sodas
✕ Tips for Crew and Guide
✕ Personal Souvenirs

Adventure Packing List

The 180° tour focuses 90% on water activities. To ensure the best experience, we recommend:

Underwater Camera – Highly recommended for the shark and turtle sightings.
Sun Protection – Reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Swimwear – Better worn under your clothes for quick transitions.
Sandals or Water Shoes – For the beach landing sessions.
Windbreaker – Useful for the longer navigation stretches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 180° Tour different from other day trips?

Unlike tours that focus on a single island, the 180° expedition follows a semi-circular route hitting multiple key landmarks (Pinzón and Daphne Major) in one day, offering a much wider variety of wildlife and landscapes.

Can I see manta rays on this tour?

Between August and November, there is a significant chance (around 50%) of spotting majestic manta rays near Daphne Major, as they congregate here to feed on plankton.

Is this tour suitable for beginner snorkelers?

Yes! No prior experience is required. Our certified guide and crew are always in the water or on deck to assist you, and we provide high-quality life vests and fins for extra buoyancy.

Which beach will we visit for the landing?

Depending on the day’s weather and National Park regulations, we land at either Playa Eden, Bahía Borrero, or Playa Palmitas. All three are remote, stunning locations on Santa Cruz’s coastline.

What wildlife is the highlight of Pinzón Island?

Pinzón is world-renowned for its resident “Tintoreras” (Whitetip reef sharks), sea turtles, and large starfish colonies found in its shallow, turquoise bays.

Flexible Cancellation Policy

• Full Refund: Guaranteed for cancellations made at least 15 days before departure.
• Last Minute: Cancellations within 14 days or “No Shows” incur a 100% penalty.
• Maritime Alerts: In case of port closure due to weather, we offer rescheduling or a 100% refund.