Descend into collapsed lava tube grottos at James Bay where Galápagos fur seals swim, lounge, and play just feet away. A certified naturalist guide reads the landscape like no signboard ever could — bucket-list intimacy with one of the archipelago's rarest pinnipeds.
What to expect
Your panga lands on the iconic black-sand beach at Puerto Egas and your licensed naturalist leads you along the volcanic shoreline trail, pausing at every grotto where fur seals porpoise in and out of sea caves. The guide narrates the ecology of the tidal zone — oystercatchers, lava herons, and marine iguanas all competing for the same basalt ledge. You have full freedom to crouch at the water's edge, photograph at your own pace, and absorb the silence broken only by the surge of the Pacific.
Good to know
The Galápagos National Park entrance fee (USD 200 per person) is paid at Baltra or San Cristóbal airport on arrival — budget for this separately. The site is accessed only by panga (zodiac) from your ship; confirm all-aboard time and allow a 25-minute panga return. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and binoculars. Pre-book your licensed guide well in advance — park-licensed independent guides fill up fast.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Isla Santiago (Puerto Egas) — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.