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SOUTHERN STAR CRUISES

Route of the Sun Expedition

5 Days / 4 Nights

Bahía de Caráquez • Santa Marta • Isla de la Plata • Puerto López • Ayangue • Salinas

Experience Ecuador’s Coast Like Never Before

Discover one of South America’s last undiscovered cruising destinations aboard the Southern Star as we explore Ecuador’s spectacular Route of the Sun.

This five-day expedition combines wildlife, marine adventures, national parks, tropical beaches, historic villages, archaeology, world-class diving, and authentic Ecuadorian culture into one unforgettable vacation.

With only a limited number of guests aboard, Southern Star offers an intimate boutique cruise experience unlike anything else on Ecuador’s mainland coast.

Day 1 – Bahia de Caraquez to Santa Marta

Begin your adventure departing Puerto Amistad in beautiful Bahía de Caráquez.

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, complimentary beverages, and spectacular coastal scenery as we cruise south.

During whale season, keep watch for humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds along the way.

Upon arrival in Santa Marta we’ll visit nearby Montecristi, home of the world-famous authentic Panama Hat.

After returning aboard, enjoy dinner while watching another spectacular Pacific sunset.

Day 2 – Isla de la Plata

Known worldwide as the “Poor Man’s Galápagos,” Isla de la Plata is home to some of Ecuador’s most incredible wildlife.

Choose your own adventure:

• Guided National Park hike

• Snorkeling

• Beach relaxation

• Wildlife photography

• Optional certified scuba diving

Observe Blue-Footed Boobies, Frigate Birds, Pelicans, seasonal Waved Albatross, sea lions and countless other species living within this protected paradise.

Certified divers may also enjoy one of Ecuador’s premier dive destinations.

Giant Oceanic Manta Rays

Between June and September, Puerto López and Isla de la Plata become home to one of the world’s largest seasonal gatherings of Giant Oceanic Manta Rays.

Driven by the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current, these magnificent creatures—with wingspans reaching nearly 7 meters (23 feet)—visit underwater cleaning stations, creating one of South America’s most unforgettable diving experiences.

Day 3 – Puerto López

Spend the day enjoying one of Ecuador’s favorite coastal towns.

Activities include:

• Puerto López Malecón

• Local shopping

• Beach activities

• Optional sport fishing

• Optional excursion to Agua Blanca, an ancient Manteño archaeological site featuring museums, history, and natural sulfur lagoons where guests can enjoy therapeutic mud baths.

Day 4 – Ayangue

Known as the Swimming Pool of the Pacific, Ayangue offers calm turquoise waters perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Activities may include:

• Snorkeling

• Kayaking

• Banana rides

• Swimming

• Beach relaxation

• Optional scuba diving

• Excursion to Islote El Pelado Marine Reserve, famous for colorful reefs, sea turtles and outstanding marine life.

Day 5 – Salinas

Visit Ecuador’s premier beach resort city before touring La Chocolatera, Ecuador’s westernmost point.

Enjoy dramatic cliffs, crashing surf and spectacular ocean views before disembarking in Salinas.

Guests joining the northbound expedition will board two days later for the return voyage to Bahía de Caráquez.

Evenings Aboard Southern Star

As the sun sets, Southern Star transforms into your private floating resort.

Relax with cocktails on the sundeck, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, watch the stars emerge over the Pacific, and share stories from the day’s adventures.

During one evening of the expedition, guests will enjoy a special live performance by local Ecuadorian musicians, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of coastal culture, music, dancing, and friendship beneath the stars.

No large crowds.

No casinos.

Just great people, great music, great food, and unforgettable memories.

Cruise Includes

✔ Four nights aboard Southern Star

✔ Comfortable private accommodations

✔ Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner*

✔ Complimentary beer, wine, standard cocktails, soft drinks, coffee, tea and bottled water

✔ Guided island and coastal excursions

✔ Isla de la Plata National Park

✔ Wildlife viewing

✔ Whale watching (June–September)

✔ Kayaks

✔ Daily Captain’s Briefing

✔ One evening of live Ecuadorian music aboard

✔ Recreational fishing (weather permitting)

(*One dinner ashore may be at guest expense depending on itinerary.)

Optional Activities

• Certified scuba diving

• Giant Manta Ray diving

• Sport fishing

Water Activities

• Shore excursions

• Cultural tours