PUERTO AYORA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Across Glassy Seas to Floreana: A Day Aboard the Galapagos Elements Wind
A full‑day yacht excursion from Puerto Ayora that navigates to Floreana Island to encounter sea lions, giant tortoises, seabirds and historic highland sites—this guide lays out the flow, highlights, and practical details for the day.
Across Glassy Seas to Floreana: A Day Aboard the Galapagos Elements Wind.
Departing early from Puerto Ayora, the Galapagos Elements Wind yacht carries a small number of visitors across marine waters where sea turtles, rays, dolphins and seabirds are frequently spotted; the day unfolds ashore at Puerto Velasco Ibarra and in Floreana’s highlands, where volcanic scenery, settler history and quiet farming zones frame close wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
First‑class yacht crossing with marine wildlife sightings
Travel aboard the Galapagos Elements Wind yacht for a scenic morning crossing from Puerto Ayora, with regular chances to spot sea turtles, rays, dolphins and seabirds as you make for Floreana.
Pierside encounters with sea lions and marine iguanas
Disembark at the remote Puerto Velasco Ibarra to meet sea lions, marine iguanas and endemic coastal birds clustered around the pier before transferring inland.
Chiva ride into volcanic highlands and settler history
Board a traditional open‑air chiva to cross Floreana’s farming zones and volcanic landscapes, visiting historic sites and a small local restaurant as part of a quiet, authentic island day.
What the day feels like
How the day feels
The day begins before dawn with a short walk to Puerto Ayora’s pier to board the Elements Wind. Morning navigation is relaxed and marine rich; arrival at Puerto Velasco Ibarra leads to a brief water‑taxi landing, close shoreline wildlife encounters, then a scenic chiva transfer into the highlands for guided exploration of volcanic terrain, local agriculture and historic settlements. After free time on the coast, the yacht returns to Santa Cruz in the afternoon, letting passengers unwind on deck during the crossing back.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day tour suits — and the behavioral expectations.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The full‑day tour starts at 06:30; meet with a short walk to the pier in Puerto Ayora to board the yacht.
Shoes are not allowed on board the yacht; guests must also avoid running on deck and may not enter restricted areas.
Expect marine wildlife during the crossing (sea turtles, rays, dolphins, seabirds), shore wildlife at Puerto Velasco Ibarra, and time ashore for highland exploration and a local meal.
The day includes a meal opportunity at a small local restaurant on Floreana during the coastal/highland portion of the tour.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When does the tour start and how long is it?
The Galapagos Element Wind day tour is a full‑day excursion that starts at 06:30 and returns to Puerto Ayora in the late afternoon.
Where do we meet for departure?
Meet with a short walk to the pier in Puerto Ayora to board the yacht and begin the water taxi transfer.
What wildlife might we see?
During the crossing you may see sea turtles, rays, dolphins and seabirds; at Puerto Velasco Ibarra expect sea lions, marine iguanas and coastal birds, with additional wildlife opportunities in the highlands.
Are shoes allowed on the yacht?
No — shoes are not allowed on board the yacht.
Is alcohol allowed during the trip?
Excessive consumption of alcohol and the use of illegal substances are strictly prohibited on board.
When will we return to Santa Cruz?
The tour navigates back in the afternoon and is scheduled to arrive at Puerto Ayora at around 17:00.