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Galapagos Explorer II: Cruise the Archipelago Island by Island

© Rita Cook

Mention the Galapagos Islands and people either have no idea what you are talking about or they're envious that you've been there. Galapagos is a great place to visit no matter what mode of transportation you choose, but a cruise through the Galapagos Archipelago is a trip you won't forget.

It was Charles Darwin who made the islands popular when he shared his discoveries with the rest of the world calling the islands the "Laboratory of Evolution." It's true, in Galapagos you can find plants and animals that are nowhere else in the world.

The Galapagos islands are considered a part of Ecuador, but there is nothing similar between the two. In fact, the islands are 600 miles away from the mainland. They consist of 13 large islands and six smaller ones, not to mention the tiny little islands that are not named. And if you like volcanoes this region is going to be right up your alley because it's one of the most active volcanic regions on earth.

Cruising through the Galapagos on the Galapagos Explorer II is, in my opinion, the best way to see the islands. Each morning and afternoon there are island excursions with a naturalist and in the evening there's dinner and entertainment on the boat.

The Islands of the Galapagos Archipelago

San Cristobal Island has been inhabited since the mid-1800s. One half full of lush vegetation, you'll find the other half not so friendly, instead dry and flat.

Santa Cruz Island is the island most people think about if they know anything about Galapagos. Think giant tortoises, this is where they live. Santa Cruz is the second largest island of the Archipelago and it's had inhabitants since 1920.

Bartolome isn't inhabited, but you can visit on a day trip. This tiny island offers the best view of the Archipelago so it's a must stop on the cruise. In order to enjoy the view from the top you'll have to climb 114 meters or plan 1 ½ hike on the easier trail.

Rabida is a small island covered by dry and coastal vegetation. It's here you can see flamingos near the salt-water lagoon. The fourth largest island of the Galapagos is called James Island. An extinct volcano (they hope) is the focal point of this stop, that and the feral goats and fur seals.

If the extinct volcano isn't to your liking you will like Fernandino Island because it's here you will find a still active one. The island is home to a large number of marine iguanas, sea lions and flightless cormorants.