Signature highlights
Purpose-built for Galápagos exploration, with a maximum of 90 guests, multiple observation areas, and expedition staff supporting shore excursions and wildlife interpretation.
MS Santa Cruz II
MS Santa Cruz II is a 90-guest HX Expeditions expedition ship, in service since 2002. This page lists 10 upcoming departures across 10 itineraries in South America, day by day and port by port. Its live AIS position is plotted on the map below and refreshed through the day.
Live Position ● 9 hours ago
Heading to: ECAYOCurrently on: 6 Nights Galapagos Cruise (6 nights)
Las Bachas, Santa Cruz Island
→ Las Bachas, Santa Cruz Island
→ Buccaneer Cove
→ Puerto Egas
→ Puerto Egas
→ Rabida Island
→ Bartolome Island
→ Bartolome Island
→ Prince Philip Steps, Genovesa Island
→ Darwin Bay, Genovesa Island
→ Itabaca Channel
→ Baltra Airport (Galapagos)
→ Baltra Airport (Galapagos)
0.4 knots
Not Defined
Position via AIS — updated periodically, not real-time.
About MS Santa Cruz II
MS Santa Cruz II is a compact Galápagos expedition vessel operated by HX Expeditions and designed for intimate, low-impact exploration. Built in 2002 and refurbished in 2021, the 90-guest ship provides a relaxed base between guided island landings, wildlife encounters, and educational activities. Its small size suits the Galápagos’ narrow channels and environmentally sensitive waters, while five passenger decks provide outdoor viewing areas and comfortable indoor spaces. The ship has 50 cabins and a high crew-to-guest ratio for personalized expedition service.
Ship at a Glance
- Operator
- HX Expeditions
- Builder / shipyard
- ASENAV Shipyard, Chile
- Registry / flag
- Ecuador
- Call sign
- HC5781
- IMO number
- 9265677
- MMSI
- 735059355
- Previous names
- Mare Australis
Onboard Experience
Dining
The Beagle Restaurant serves meals throughout the voyage, with menus emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and Ecuadorian and international influences. Outdoor barbecue dining is also available on selected occasions.
Entertainment
The Expedition Lounge includes a science area and library for talks, informal learning, and socializing. Public spaces are oriented toward destination interpretation rather than large-scale shows.
Staterooms & suites
The ship has 50 cabins, including Explorer, Family, Voyager, and Darwin Suite categories. Many cabins can interconnect, and rooms generally offer ocean views through windows or larger picture windows.
For families
Interconnecting cabins and dedicated family cabin configurations provide flexibility for multigenerational travelers. The small-ship format supports shared expedition activities rather than extensive onboard children’s facilities.
Pools, spa & wellness
Onboard wellness facilities include a fitness room and two hot tubs. Guests can also use open decks for scenery viewing and fresh-air relaxation.
Environmental features
The vessel is designed for small-scale Galápagos operations and supports low-impact expedition travel. HX describes its Santa Cruz II operations as carbon neutral, while shore activities emphasize environmental education and local conservation awareness.
Explore This Ship
Jump from MS Santa Cruz II sailings into the broader destination network with cruise line and region hub pages.
Itineraries & Sailings
Ports of Call
Next: Jan 5, 2027
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Sep 24, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Sep 24, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Dec 25, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Dec 31, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Oct 1, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Sep 29, 2026
1 upcoming departure
Ports of Call
Next: Dec 30, 2026
1 upcoming departure
All Upcoming Departures
| Departure | Return | Itinerary | Nights | Region | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 23, 2026 | Oct 1, 2026 | Book → | |||
| Sep 24, 2026 | Oct 5, 2026 | 11 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 11 | South America | Book → |
| Sep 24, 2026 | Oct 5, 2026 | 11 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 11 | South America | Book → |
| Sep 24, 2026 | Oct 9, 2026 | Book → | |||
| Sep 29, 2026 | Oct 5, 2026 | 6 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 6 | South America | Book → |
| Oct 1, 2026 | Oct 5, 2026 | 4 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 4 | South America | Book → |
| Dec 25, 2026 | Jan 7, 2027 | 13 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 13 | South America | Book → |
| Dec 30, 2026 | Jan 7, 2027 | 8 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 8 | South America | Book → |
| Dec 31, 2026 | Jan 15, 2027 | 15 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 15 | South America | Book → |
| Jan 5, 2027 | Jan 15, 2027 | 10 Nights Galapagos Cruise | 10 | South America | Book → |