When we were offered the chance to join the grandparents on a Lindblad Expeditions cruise to the Galápagos Islands during spring break of 2024, we knew it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up. This eight-day cruise, offered in partnership with National Geographic, promised to be the kind of experience that creates memories to last a lifetime. With our multigenerational group spanning from under 10-years old to over 70-years old, the trip was as much about shared family experiences as it was about the incredible destination.

The grandparents, seasoned travelers in their retirement, had long dreamed of visiting the Galápagos. For them, it was a bucket-list destination, and they were eager to share this extraordinary place with their grandchildren. It was a trip we wouldn’t have planned for ourselves, given the cost, but it also happened to be at the top of my wife’s list of dream vacations. It was the perfect combination of timing, generosity, and the chance to make unforgettable memories together.

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Pre-Trip Planning: Logistics, Coordination, and Excitement

Planning a trip of this scale required a full year of preparation. The grandparents took charge of much of the logistics, coordinating flights from New Jersey to Ecuador, ensuring adequate buffer time for any hiccups, and optimizing arrival times for the cruise. For my wife and me, the challenge was balancing work responsibilities with the kids’ school schedules. Although we initially stressed over the kids missing a couple of days of school, we quickly realized that the educational value of this trip far outweighed the time missed in class.

Packing for the trip presented its own challenges. With early spring temperatures still cool in the Northeast but warm in the Galápagos, we had to carefully plan for sun protection, comfortable clothing for outdoor excursions, and lightweight gear to stay cool. We researched what to bring based on the experiences of other travelers and spent time preparing the kids by watching documentaries and YouTube videos about the Galápagos. While their engagement with the documentaries varied, it was clear that these efforts paid off when we arrived.

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Arrival in Ecuador: A Safe, Seamless Start

Traveling to Ecuador came with a heightened awareness of safety concerns due to recent social unrest. However, Lindblad Expeditions proved to be a reassuring partner. From the moment we landed in Guayaquil, we felt well taken care of. The hotel where we stayed had armed guards for added security, and Lindblad’s representatives were there to ensure a smooth transition from airport to hotel and, later, to the ship.

Unlike past cruises where we had to handle every detail ourselves, Lindblad made the process seamless. They provided luggage tags, coordinated transfers, and even met us at the airport with ID tags for our journey. This attention to detail set the tone for the entire trip, making it clear that we were in good hands.

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On to the Galápagos: First Impressions and Life Aboard the Ship

After a short flight from Guayaquil to the Galápagos, we were transported to the ship by zodiac boats—a thrilling first for the kids. The crew welcomed us warmly, assigned our rooms, and introduced us to the flexible yet structured itinerary. Each day offered multiple excursion options, ensuring that every family member could find something to enjoy.

The ship itself was designed for exploration rather than luxury. While it lacked the glitz of some cruise liners, it was perfectly suited for a wildlife expedition, with a rugged yet comfortable feel. The real luxury of this trip was the access to extraordinary experiences and the expertise of the naturalists on board.

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A Typical Day in the Galápagos: Excursions, Dining, and Wildlife

Our days followed a rhythm of early morning excursions, meals, and downtime before more adventures in the afternoon and evening. Excursions ranged from beach walks among sea lions to wildlife hikes, snorkeling with sharks, and glass-bottom boat rides. The kids were particularly thrilled with the up-close encounters with wildlife, from playful sea lions to majestic Galápagos tortoises.

Dining aboard the ship was another highlight. Breakfast featured a buffet with local flavors, while dinners offered flexible menu options. Our mini foodies loved the variety, from traditional omelets to unique pastries and breads they’d never tried before. The dining experience was as much a part of the adventure as the excursions, allowing us to bond over shared meals and new culinary experiences.

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Unforgettable Moments: Española Island and Beyond

One of the most memorable days was our visit to Española Island, where we walked among sunbathing sea lions on a pristine white sand beach. These animals showed no fear, often approaching us out of curiosity. The naturalists, who doubled as photographers, added incredible value by pointing out photo opportunities and sharing insights about the wildlife.

This level of access to nature was unparalleled. Each excursion felt like a privilege, from snorkeling with reef sharks to learning about conservation efforts in the Galápagos. We even attended a fascinating talk about invasive species, which sparked meaningful conversations about environmental preservation long after the trip ended.

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The True Value of a Multigenerational Trip

This trip was about more than just the destination—it was about the time we spent together as a family. For the grandparents, it was an opportunity to connect with the kids outside of the day-to-day responsibilities of school pickups and extracurriculars. For us, it was a chance to unplug and focus on the present moment.

The flexibility of the Lindblad itinerary allowed everyone to participate in activities that suited their interests. Whether we were splitting up to pursue different excursions or coming together for shared adventures, the trip catered to our diverse age group in a way that few vacations can.

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Reflections: A Life-Changing Journey

The wildlife and cultural experiences of the Galápagos were unlike anything we’d encountered before. Beyond the awe-inspiring landscapes and animals, the trip deepened our appreciation for conservation and gave us a newfound respect for the delicate balance of ecosystems.

For our family, this was more than just a vacation. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore, learn, and grow together. The memories we created will undoubtedly last a lifetime, and the connections we strengthened as a family are priceless.

Would we recommend a trip like this? Absolutely—but it’s not just about the destination or the excursions. It’s about the moments shared, the lessons learned, and the bonds formed along the way. For us, the Galápagos was everything we’d dreamed of and more.