Night 1 & 9: Hilton Colón Guayaquil Guayaquil, Ecuador Situated on the banks of the Guayas River and conveniently located in the bustling heart of Ecuador’s main port and economic center, the Hilton Colón Guayaquil offers a warm welcome. Presenting a remarkable architectural design, and offering a panoramic view of the city, the hotel offers easy access to the city’s booming commercial and financial district. Boasting a large pool with a tropical bar, the hotel’s leisure amenities include an on-site casino, squash court, sauna, gym, spa and five restaurants.
Nights 2 - 8: Aboard Isabela II Cruising the Galápagos Islands An expeditionary-style yacht, the sleek Isabela II carries just 40 Tauck guests on a Galápagos Islands cruise. This recently renovated, fully air-conditioned vessel offers many of the amenities of a larger vessel, including a library, lounge, and comfortable dining room in which a combination of Continental and Ecuadorian cuisine is served. All staterooms feature private bathrooms with showers, individual air conditioning, desk, two bedside tables, a music system and ample storage space; electrical current is 110 volts. Her well-trained 27-member team consists of Ecuadorian officers, naturalists, crew and an on-board physician. Shore excursions are via Zodiac-style boats and are available to everyone; Isabela II carries her own glass-bottom boat aboard for observing the undersea world.