UNCHARTED® · Outposts · Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Origin and Theory

Ship & River Boat

Sail Away in Luxury on a Darwinian Adventure

Take your dreams of exploration to the wateraboard two ultra-luxe sister yachts that willhost you as you adventure through the famousarchipelago of the Galápagos Islands.

See it for yourself ›Begin your dream ›

Why it's unique

Experience luxury with a clear conscience aboard these 20-passenger, eco-friendly vessels, offering elegance, top service, engaging activities, and fine cuisine.

Explore the Galápagos in style aboard these luxury yachts, now part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. With an expert crew of 13, including two naturalists, you'll enjoy twice-daily excursions, kayaking, snorkeling, and more. Onboard, relax with Ecuadorian cuisine, spacious staterooms, and smooth sailing. Discover iconic wildlife and experience the islands' wonders with comfort and conservation in mind.

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The stay

Origin and Theory at a glance.

Type: Ship & River Boat
Ideal For: Couples · Honeymooners
Experience: Wildlife Viewing
Geography: Island
Collection: Off the Grid · Family Trips
When To Go: Year-round

Where it is

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Origin and Theory

Galapagos Islands

These volcanic Pacific islands have evoked mystery and intrigue for centuries. Uncover their rich biodiversity, shaped by millions of years of evolution.

How To Get There

The journey to the Galapagos Islands begins in either Quito or Guayaquil, with a 2-hour flight to the small airport on Baltra Island.

Flora & Fauna

Nearly 9,000 species are found on the islands and their surrounding waters, many of them endemic, from the the giant tortoise to the blue-footed booby bird.

Cultural Impact

From choosing tents over concrete to restoring a former cattle farm, they blend luxury eco-tourism with sustainable practices, while supporting local communities.

Journeys

Journeys built around Origin and Theory.

Ecuador + Peru15 Days / 14 NightsMountain Highs and Galápagos Magic

Urubamba Valley
Inkaterra Pueblo
La Casona
Origin and Theory

Explore two of South America’s most cultural and wild locations for an unforgettable journey through history and the natural world—this is the Galápagos Islands to Machu Picchu, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await your discovery.

See the itinerary

In the magazine

Ecuador Stories

StoryExpedition Sailing, Evolved and Ultra-CivilizedSet sail in small ships to retrace historic island and inland routes to rediscover remote natural wonders in the spirit of adventure and exploration.Read the story

StoryOur Guide to Night Safaris Around the WorldFrom game drives and scuba dives to desert stargazing and the Northern Lights, UNCHARTED^® trips are not complete without dusk or evening activities—after all, nightfall is when many animals just begin to awake.Read the story

Story5 Trips Perfect for Kids of All AgesPut the cell phones on airplane mode and pass around the SPF! Here are our top five family trips to celebrate real life connection.Read the story

Let us be your guides in planning your safari.

Tell us what you are dreaming of, and our crew will help you plan every part of it, from the first idea to the day you fly home.