Elizabeth Bay, a sheltered crescent on Isabela Island, Galápagos becomes a true gateway to nature rather than a generic port stop. Here ships of the Galápagos expedition fleet dock with minimal disturbance, letting guests slip into a pristine archipelago where wildlife is the main event and the landscape is all lava, mangroves, and sapphire water. Signature experiences bloom from the shore: guided shore hikes to volcanic landscapes and highland viewpoints, snorkeling among playful sea lions and graceful reef fish in crystalline bays, paddling through mangrove channels at Elizabeth Bay itself, and close encounters at Los Tuneles lava-tunnel realms and Tintoreras islets where penguins, rays, and turtles share the water. Destination-wise, the port serves as a launchpad to Isabela Island’s treasures—from the white-sand beaches of Puerto Villamil to the otherworldly lava formations that frame Sierra Negra’s backdrop—offering day trips that blend science, scenery, and sea life in a single itinerary. Fleet features include shallow-draft expedition vessels equipped with multiple Zodiacs, glass-bottom tenders, and on-board naturalists who tailor experiences to the moment, while eco-conscious design minimizes impact. Onboard services shine with multilingual naturalist guides, chef-driven menus highlighting Ecuadorian fare, insightful talks, observation decks, and comfortable lounges that turn a port call into a sustainable, immersive Galápagos chapter.
