The Galápagos archipelago is best known for shaping Charles Darwin's theory of evolution and during this bucket list expedition cruise, you'll visit eight of its islands in the company of expert naturalists, as well broadcaster and journalist, Martha Kearney.
Your adventure begins in Quito, Ecuador, where you'll have a two-night stay with plenty of opportunity to explore the historic capital. During a walking tour of the old town, see sights including Independence Square, the President's Palace and San Francisco Church.
You'll then fly to Santa Cruz Island and embark Natural Paradise for a seven-night cruise. You'll notice that each island has its own distinct terrain, flora and fauna. Call at Fernandina, the nesting site for flightless cormorants and spend two days in Isabela - the largest island in the archipelago - where you could spot dolphins and whales, as well as the unique blue-footed booby. Visit Española, home to Punta Suarez, the only place on earth where the waved albatross nests between March and December.
Martha Kearney will join for the duration of the cruise, bringing her passion for nature and conservation, sharing insights along the way. You'll also be accompanied by expert naturalists who will provide in-depth knowledge of the biodiversity and history of these spectacular islands.
Spend days ashore in the company of your guides embarking on a number of excursions and experiences ranging from snorkelling and kayaking to fascinating wildlife safaris and hikes across the volcanic terrain.
Your ship, the Natural Paradise has capacity for 15 passengers and on board, you'll find the service attentive, informal and relaxed. Cruise on a full board basis and look forward to evening lectures from your naturalist team.
Martha Kearney is an award-winning journalist and broadcaster, best known for acclaimed documentaries such as The Great Butterfly Adventure and The Wonder of Bees. She also spent several years presenting Radio Four's Today programme, where one of her highlights was presenting live editions from the British Antarctic Survey base Rothera Research Station.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. International flights subject to availability and prices may fluctuate. On board credit subject to availability. Single supplement on request. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Steppes Travel. Calls are made at local rates. All tours featured are operated by the partner specified, a company wholly independent of Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd. Please refer to the Data Protection Notice in today's Personal Column or telegraph.co.uk/privacypolicy.
Arrive in Quito and transfer to the hotel for your two-night stay. Spend time exploring the city which is known for having the largest and best-preserved historic centre and colonial quarters in Latin America.
Explore Quito on a city tour visiting Independence Square, the President's Palace and San Francisco Church, finishing with a welcome lunch at a local restaurant.
Fly from Quito to Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos. On arrival, meet your national park guide who will accompany you to the dock, where you'll embark the Natural Paradise for your seven-night cruise. Your host, Martha Kearney will be waiting on board to meet you when you arrive. Set sail towards North Seymour Island.
Snorkelling and panga rides are possible today. Search for blue-footed and Nazca boobies, terns and sea lions, Galapagos penguins and the strange yet fascinating mola mola (sun fish).
Spend the next two days exploring Isabela Island. The archipelago's largest island, Isabela, was formed by the joining of five young volcanoes and offers unique flora and fauna not seen on the other islands.
Explore Chinese Hat - the small islet located near the southeast coast of Santiago Island. Its name comes from the distinct shape of the islet's summit. Afterwards, visit Borrero Bay on the northern side of Santa Cruz island, offering excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities.
There is the opportunity to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Devil's Crown, an extinct volcano that peaks out of the waters just off Floreana's coast and offers a magnificent snorkelling experience.
After landing, walk across a lovely white sand beach amongst a busy sea lion colony or dive into the water to swim and snorkel with sea lion pups.
This morning disembark early and visit the Galápagos Science Centre, a state of the art research facility. Transfer for the airport for your return flight to Quito.
With a maximum capacity of 15 passengers, Natural Paradise offers an intimate and informal atmosphere on board, as well as low-impact and seamless shore landings. Nine cabins vary from standard cabins with porthole windows to suites with private balconies for prime wildlife viewing. Meals are shared either in the spacious dining room inside or in the covered alfresco area. In between excursions, make use of the large sundeck with loungers and jacuzzi, as well as snorkelling equipment and sea kayaks which are available to use throughout the trip.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. International flights subject to availability and prices may fluctuate. On board credit subject to availability. Single supplement on request. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and Steppes Travel. Calls are made at local rates. All tours featured are operated by the partner specified, a company wholly independent of Telegraph Media Group Holdings Ltd. Please refer to the Data Protection Notice in today's Personal Column or telegraph.co.uk/privacypolicy.