Galapagos Escape Aboard the National Geographic Islander ll

Galápagos Escape Aboard the National Geographic Islander II

2nd July – 9th July

Some trips stay with you forever, and our Galápagos adventure with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions was definitely one of those unforgettable experiences. From once in a lifetime wildlife encounters to luxury cruising, this was the perfect mix of adventure, education and relaxation.

Here‘s a day-by-day look at our incredible week in one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.

Getting There

Our journey started at London Heathrow. Rather than rushing on the morning of our flight, we caught the train down the night before and stayed at an airport hotel on Bath Road.

We travelled from Euston and then used the Heathrow Hotel Hoppa bus from the terminal to the hote. On reflection, I think next time I'd simply drive and use airport parking – it would probably be easier with luggage.

Our flight was with Iberia, travelling via Madrid to Quito. If you're booking this route, I would definitely recommend upgrading to Premium Economy for the Madrid to Quito sector. It's a long flight, with a flying time in excess of thirteen hours, and the extra comfort is well worth the money.

After arriving in Quito, the Lindblad Expeditions team met us at the airport and transferred us to the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel, just two minutes away. After checking in, we enjoyed dinner in the hotel restaurant before heading to bed for an early night ahead of the real adventure.

Day 1 - 3rd July

Welcome to the Galápagos!

After breakfast we met the Lindblad representatives, completed the paperwork needed for entry into the Galápagos National Park, collected our branded reusable water bottles and headed to the airport.

Our flight travelled via Guayaquil. We stayed onboard while new passengers boarded before continuing on to Baltra Island.

The excitement really began as soon as we landed. We were greeted by the crew from the National Geographic Islander II, enjoyed a short coach ride to the dock and immediately spotted pelicans and sea lions – our first Galápagos wildlife! Safe to say everyone was already reaching for their cameras.

We boarded a Zodiac which whisked us across to the ship, while our luggage was transferred directly from the airport to our suite without us lifting a finger.

Our accommodation onboard

Our cabin exceeded every expectation. There were no room keys to worry about, plenty of wardrobe space, an enormous bathroom with double sinks, a spacious walk-in shower (no annoying shower curtain!) and luxury toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, body wash and soap. It instantly felt like home.

Lunch was served outside on deck, something I absolutely loved and not something you'll find on every expedition ship.

Later we attended the mandatory safety briefing with the Captain before sailing around Daphne Major, an uninhabited volcanic tuff cone famous for its birdlife and Charles Darwin's finch studies.

Dinner in the Yacht Restaurant was a delicious three-course meal with choices of meat, fish or vegetarian dishes.

To finish the evening, we explored the ship, discovered the top deck complete with plunge pool and sun loungers, enjoyed a little wine tasting and watched a spectacular Galápagos sunset.

A pretty perfect first day.

Day 2 – 4th July

Bartolomé Island

It was an early start for one of the Galápagos' most iconic locations. A Zodiac took us ashore where we immediately spotted our very first Blue-footed Booby, colourful Sally Lightfoot crabs, sea lions and even a magnificent Galápagos Hawk overlooking Pinnacle Rock.

Then came the famous climb.

The 380 wooden steps to the summit are well worth every bit of effort. The panoramic views over the volcanic landscape were simply breathtaking and one of the highlights of the entire trip. It's a must do but you have to have a reasonable level of physical fitness to get the most out of the experience.

Back onboard we enjoyed breakfast before heading straight back out for snorkelling. Guests who preferred to stay dry could opt for a glass-bottom Zodiac instead. We chose to snorkel straight from the beach and were rewarded with sightings of reef sharks, blacktip sharks and playful sea lions. Some guests even spotted rays, although unfortunately I wasn't one of the lucky ones!

After around 40 minutes in the water we boarded the Zodiacs again to cruise along the coastline where we found one of the stars of the Galápagos – the Galápagos Penguin. Watching it leap into the sea to play with a sea lion was incredibly special.

Back onboard, resident naturalist Natalie gave a fascinating geology presentation explaining how the Galápagos Islands were formed through volcanic activity and tectonic plate movement.

Dragon Hill (Cerro Dragón)

That afternoon we landed on the northern coast of Santa Cruz Island for a hike through giant cactus forests and incense trees. Here we saw the colourful Santa Cruz Land Iguanas, a species that has been successfully brought back from the brink of extinction. Before dinner we enjoyed the daily expedition briefing before heading outside for some incredible stargazing. With virtually no light pollution, the night sky was absolutely spectacular. To finish the day, we celebrated American Independence Day with a fantastic onboard BBQ. The celebrations were made even more special because 4th July also marks the anniversary of the Galápagos National Park, established in 1959 as Ecuador's very first protected area, safeguarding around 97% of these extraordinary islands.

Day 3 – 5th July

Floreana Island (Post Office Bay)

Another early alarm—but absolutely worth it! At 5.30am I joined the kayaking excursion while others chose a more leisurely Zodiac tour later in the morning.

Paddling through the mangroves surrounded by sea lions and Blue-footed Boobies was an unforgettable experience. After kayaking we landed at the famous Post Office Bay, where sailors and whalers have been leaving mail in a wooden barrel since the late 1700s. Visitors still continue the tradition today. I left two postcards—one addressed to my mum and another to myself—and amazingly found one addressed to someone in Cockermouth, which I'll personally deliver next time we're travelling through in our campervan! It's such a lovely tradition. After breakfast we headed back out on a Zodiac before changing into snorkelling gear. Swimming with the sea lions was honestly one of the greatest wildlife experiences I've ever had. Watching them play underwater with shells and starfish, hearing their calls beneath the surface and having them swim right up to inspect my GoPro without the slightest fear was simply magical. It's an experience I'll never forget.

Lunch was another highlight, with delicious, steamed Amberjack, rice and sweet plantain. Later we explored the island again by Zodiac before walking along a green-tinted beach to see flamingos and shorebirds, then crossed to the opposite side where sea turtles' nest on a beautiful white sandy beach. That evening the crew kindly arranged for us to watch the England football match before another wonderful dinner in the Yacht Restaurant. Another early night after another unforgettable day.

Day 4 – 6th July

Española Island

We started the morning with another Zodiac ride and kayaking adventure before breakfast. One unexpected treat was visiting the National Geographic Delfina, a smaller expedition vessel sleeping just 16 guests.

It felt much more like a luxury catamaran and would be perfect for a family celebration or private group charter. After breakfast we headed out snorkelling again. This time we saw countless sea turtles and even more playful sea lions before relaxing on the beach alongside them.

Punta Suárez

In the afternoon we completed a two-mile hike around Punta Suárez. The wildlife here was simply incredible. We saw huge numbers of Waved Albatrosses, watched the famous courtship dances of the Blue-footed Boobies and spotted colourful Hood lava lizards alongside striking red-and-black marine iguanas. Nature lovers honestly couldn't ask for more

Day 5 – 7th July

San Cristóbal Island

Another 5.30am start took us to Punta Pitt. Guests wanting a slower morning could choose a Zodiac tour instead, but we were so glad we chose the hike. This is one of the few places in the Galápagos where you can see all three species of boobies. Seeing the stunning Red-footed Booby was a real bucket-list moment, alongside the Nazca Booby and a rather scruffy-looking frigatebird chick!

Walking quietly through the landscape while listening to nothing but birdsong and crashing waves was incredibly peaceful. After breakfast it was time for our final snorkel with the sea lions on what was probably the most sparkling white beach I've ever seen. Following a delicious Ecuadorian lunch onboard, we sailed to Cerro Brujo, where we enjoyed a gentle yoga and stretching session on the beach while listening to the waves. After another swim in the crystal-clear water, we boarded the Zodiacs one final time for a sunset cruise around the dramatic Kicker Rock formations. It was the perfect way to end our final full day.

Day 6 – 8th July

Farewell, Islander II

Sadly it was time to leave the National Geographic Islander II. Before disembarking I couldn't resist one last visit to the onboard boutique, where I bought some beautiful jewellery including a Red-footed Booby charm and a pair of Blue-footed Booby earrings. We also left the recommended gratuities of $300 per person. Every single crew member—from the housekeeping team and dishwashers right through to the Captain—helped make this one of the best trips we've ever experienced, and every penny felt thoroughly deserved.

Our luggage was collected and transferred directly to Quito, so we didn't need to think about it again until later that day.

A Zodiac took us ashore on Santa Cruz Island, where we travelled into the lush highlands. The cooler climate was immediately noticeable, and lightweight waterproof jackets came in handy.

We enjoyed breakfast at a local ranch where giant tortoises migrate naturally through the area before spending time photographing these gentle giants. From there we headed back to the airport for our return flight to Quito via Guayaquil.

My Final Thoughts

This wasn't just a cruise—it was a true expedition. Every day brought something completely different, whether that was hiking volcanic landscapes, kayaking through mangroves, swimming with sea lions, spotting penguins, watching albatross courtship displays or learning from the exceptional team of naturalists onboard.

The National Geographic Islander II offers the perfect balance of luxury and adventure. The crew were outstanding, the food was exceptional, the cabins were beautiful and every detail was taken care of.

The Galápagos had been on my bucket list for years, and somehow it still exceeded every expectation.

Would I go back?

Absolutely... in a heartbeat.

My Top Tips

Pack casually—there's no need to dress up in the evenings. Don't overpack. Laundry is available onboard. But chargeable

Wetsuits, snorkels, masks and life jackets are all provided.

If you wear prescription glasses, consider getting a prescription snorkel mask before travelling.

Invest in a good underwater camera. I used a GoPro Hero 13, which was fantastic. Selfie sticks aren't allowed in the water, but the floating GoPro handle is perfect.

Premium Economy on the Madrid to Quito flight is definitely worth the upgrade.

If flying from Heathrow, I'd probably drive and use airport parking next time.

Make sure you know the tipping policy before you go, you can add the tip to your onboard account or you can leave cash.

If you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure with outstanding service, breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences, a Galápagos expedition aboard the National Geographic Islander II should be right at the very top of your travel wish list. If you would like some help replicating my trip or taking on a slightly longer experience, then please do let me know.

Heidi