Bartolome Island, a remote gem in the Galapagos archipelago, beckons adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable day trip from Puerto Ayora. Accessible by private yacht, this guided tour promises a captivating blend of natural wonders and adrenaline-fueled activities. From a scenic trek to the iconic Pinnacle Rock to snorkeling alongside sea turtles and Galapagos penguins, the day is filled with opportunities to take in the islands’ diverse ecosystem. With a freshly prepared lunch served aboard, this excursion caters to various dietary needs and ensures a memorable exploration of this unique destination.
Key Points
- A private yacht excursion departs from Puerto Ayora, offering a guided tour of Bartolome Island with a maximum of 20 travelers.
- The highlights include trekking to Pinnacle Rock, snorkeling with sea turtles and penguins, and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch on board.
- The tour caters to various dietary needs and operates in all weather conditions, with hotel pickup at 7:00 am.
- Travelers have praised the exceptional organization, comfortable yacht, attentive crew, and memorable wildlife encounters, though seasickness may be a concern.
- Health and safety precautions are in place, with moderate physical fitness required, and vegetarian and vegan options available upon request.
Trip Overview and Details
Though a day trip, Bartolome Island offers visitors an unforgettable Galapagos experience.
This private yacht excursion departs from Puerto Ayora, providing a maximum of 20 travelers with a guided tour of the island’s natural wonders.
Highlights include trekking to the iconic pinnacle rock, snorkeling with sea turtles and penguins, and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch onboard.
Highly recommended by previous guests, the tour includes pickup, snorkel gear, and even alcoholic beverages.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour caters to various dietary needs and is operated in all weather conditions.
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Itinerary Highlights
The day trip to Bartolome Island begins with a hotel pickup at 7:00 am.
Travelers then trek to the iconic Pinnacle Rock, enjoying scenic views of the volcanic landscape.
Next, they’ll have opportunities to snorkel and spot sea turtles and Galapagos penguins in the crystal-clear waters.
After working up an appetite, guests will savor a delicious freshly prepared meal onboard the comfortable private yacht.
The itinerary also includes time to relax and sunbathe on the beach.
Throughout the excursion, the attentive crew ensures a seamless and memorable experience for all participants.
Traveler Experience and Feedback
Travelers have consistently praised the exceptional organization and seamless execution of this day trip to Bartolome Island. The comfortable yacht provides ample space, allowing guests to relax and take in the stunning scenery.
The crew’s attentiveness and the quality of the freshly prepared meals have also earned high praise from past participants. Wildlife encounters, such as swimming with sea lions and observing colorful fish, have been particularly memorable highlights.
However, some travelers recommend bringing Dramamine due to the boat ride conditions. The experience has been highly rated for its strong organization and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities.
Health and Safety Information
This day trip to Bartolome Island may not be suitable for all travelers.
It’s not recommended for pregnant individuals, those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or back issues. The moderate physical fitness level required excludes wheelchair users. Travelers should consider their health before booking.
Appropriate dress is advised, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. While vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, guests with dietary restrictions should inquire beforehand.
Booking Information
Pricing for the day trip to Bartolome Island starts from $370.00 per person.
This non-refundable tour includes confirmation upon booking. While the excursion operates in all weather conditions, visitors are advised to dress appropriately.
The booking process is straightforward:
- Secure your spot by reserving in advance.
- Review the confirmation details received at the time of booking.
- Prepare for the adventure by packing necessary items.
- Enjoy the memorable experience of exploring Bartolome Island.
Wildlife Encounters
While exploring Bartolome Island, visitors can expect to encounter a diverse array of Galapagos wildlife. One of the highlights is the opportunity to spot Galapagos penguins, one of the smallest penguin species, as they gracefully swim and dive in the surrounding waters.
Snorkelers may also come face-to-face with curious sea turtles and vibrant reef fish.
On land, visitors can observe marine iguanas basking on the volcanic rocks, their black-and-red coloration perfectly camouflaged against the terrain.
The island’s unique landscape provides an ideal habitat for these endemic species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Meal and Refreshment Options
A freshly prepared lunch is included in the day trip to Bartolome Island. Travelers can enjoy a delicious meal onboard the private yacht.
The menu typically features local seafood, salads, and fresh fruit. Along With the included lunch, coffee, tea, and water refills are provided throughout the excursion. Alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase.
The crew ensures that all dietary needs, such as vegetarian or vegan options, are accommodated upon request. The high-quality meals and refreshments contribute to the overall positive traveler experience on this Galapagos adventure.
The trip includes:
- Freshly prepared lunch
- Coffee and tea
- Water refills
- Alcoholic drinks available for purchase
Transportation and Pickup/Drop-off
The day trip to Bartolome Island includes hotel pickup and drop-off service for select hotels in the Puerto Ayora area. This provides travelers with a seamless start and end to their adventure. The pickup and drop-off schedule is as follows:
| Hotel Location | Pickup Time | Drop-off Time |
|---|---|---|
| Puerto Ayora | 7:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Punta Estrada | 7:10 AM | 4:50 PM |
| Finch Bay | 7:15 AM | 4:45 PM |
| Galapagos Suites | 7:20 AM | 4:40 PM |
| Angermeyer Waterfront Inn | 7:25 AM | 4:35 PM |
This convenient transportation ensures travelers can focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters during their day trip to Bartolome Island.
Sum Up
Bartolome Island offers an unforgettable adventure with its scenic trek to Pinnacle Rock and thrilling snorkeling amid sea turtles and Galapagos penguins. Travelers can savor a freshly prepared lunch while taking in the breathtaking views. This private yacht tour caters to various dietary needs and operates in all weather conditions, ensuring a memorable exploration of this stunning Galapagos destination.