New 2027-28 Galápagos Cruises by HX Expeditions Promise Eco-Conscious Adventure

HX Expeditions has revealed its eagerly awaited 2027-28 itineraries for the Galápagos Islands, marking the continuation of its partnership with Metropolitan Touring, the owners of the MS Santa Cruz II, the vessel that HX operates in the destination. This announcement builds on HX’s longstanding commitment to responsible travel, blending science-led exploration with immersive wildlife experiences. Bookings for the 2027-28 season open on December 22, 2025, giving travellers the chance to secure their place on one of the premier eco-cruises to this unique archipelago.

HX Expeditions: Extending the Galápagos Partnership

In a significant move, HX Expeditions has extended its partnership with Metropolitan Touring, renewing their charter agreement for the MS Santa Cruz II through 2029. The vessel, designed specifically for environmentally conscious travel, offers guests an intimate and low-impact way to experience the Galápagos’ remarkable biodiversity.

This decision underscores both companies’ shared values of conservation and sustainability, ensuring that future travellers can explore the Galápagos Islands while minimising their environmental footprint. HX’s ongoing commitment to responsible, science-driven travel is evident in this renewed collaboration. The MS Santa Cruz II remains a cornerstone of HX’s Galápagos offerings, with its eco-friendly design and small-group size enhancing the overall guest experience.

2027-28 Galápagos Itinerary Highlights

HX Expeditions has introduced several exciting itinerary options for the 2027-28 Galápagos season, allowing guests to explore a variety of islands while enjoying both wildlife-rich expeditions and cultural adventures. Some of the key itineraries include:

• Eastern Route: In Darwin’s Footsteps (9 days): This journey explores Santa Cruz, Española, and San Cristóbal, offering a classic Galápagos experience. The itinerary includes guided walks, snorkelling, and unique wildlife encounters, including giant tortoises and endemic bird species.
• In Darwin’s Footsteps Plus Machu Picchu (14 days): For those seeking an extended adventure, this cruise combines the Eastern Route with a five-day pre-cruise stay in Machu Picchu, providing a perfect balance of historical exploration and natural wonders. This itinerary includes visits to both the Galápagos Islands and the famous archaeological site in Peru.
• Northern & Western Route: Nine of the Best Isles (11 days): Aimed at those wanting to experience a wide variety of the archipelago’s islands, this cruise includes nine different islands, allowing guests to encounter everything from marine iguanas to blue-footed boobies. This route is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers.
• Nine of the Best Isles Plus Machu Picchu (16 days): For a truly unique experience, this itinerary combines a comprehensive exploration of the Galápagos Islands with a visit to Machu Picchu, offering travellers the best of both nature and culture.

The Unique Onboard Experience

The MS Santa Cruz II offers a luxurious yet eco-conscious cruising experience. The vessel accommodates up to 90 guests, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere compared to larger cruise ships. Onboard, guests can enjoy multiple facilities, including:

• Observation decks for panoramic views of the islands
• Science and lecture centres for educational talks on the Galápagos’ unique ecosystems
• Fitness centres, hot tubs, and a restaurant serving local, organic food

These amenities, combined with environmentally focused excursions, create a seamless experience that prioritises sustainability while providing the utmost comfort and exploration.

Commitment to Conservation and Low-Impact Travel

The Galápagos Islands are a global biodiversity hotspot, and HX Expeditions maintains a strong focus on conservation during its cruises. The partnership with Metropolitan Touring and the use of the MS Santa Cruz II is rooted in a shared commitment to environmental preservation. The islands are protected by stringent regulations, with over 97 percent of the land mass being part of national parks or marine reserves.

HX’s eco-tourism model is designed to allow guests to experience the archipelago’s beauty while minimising their impact on this fragile environment. The small vessel size allows for lower emissions and more controlled excursions, offering a sustainable way to explore one of the world’s most significant natural ecosystems.

What to Expect as a Traveller

• Early booking is highly recommended for these exclusive expeditions, especially for the popular 16-day itineraries that combine Machu Picchu with the Galápagos experience.
• The intimate group size ensures more personal interaction with the natural world and guides, allowing for a tailored wildlife experience.
• Guests should prepare for an enriching journey, where educational aspects, from conservation to scientific exploration, are integral to the experience.
• The scientific focus of the journey is an attractive draw for those interested in marine biology, geology, and evolutionary science, particularly as the Galápagos Islands were the site of Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking studies.

The Ultimate Eco-Adventure in 2027-28

HX Expeditions’ 2027-28 itineraries offer travellers a chance to experience the best of the Galápagos Islands, one of the world’s most biologically diverse and ecologically important regions. With a strong commitment to sustainable travel and conservation, HX ensures that guests not only explore these incredible islands but also contribute to their preservation.

The MS Santa Cruz II provides a luxury expedition experience that blends comfort with eco-consciousness, while HX’s extended partnership with Metropolitan Touring underscores a commitment to responsible exploration. Whether guests are seeking to enjoy wildlife, engage in scientific learning, or explore Machu Picchu, these cruises offer a perfect blend of nature, culture, and sustainability for the discerning traveller.

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