In 1932, Heinz Wittmer, his wife Margret, and Heinz's son Harry made the extraordinary decision to leave Germany behind in search of a healthier, simpler, and more meaningful life.
At a time of growing uncertainty in Europe, they set their sights on one of the most remote places on Earth—Floreana Island in the Galapagos. After weeks crossing the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the family arrived on August 28, 1932, marking the beginning of one of the most inspiring pioneer stories in Ecuador's history. What began as a search for a new home would eventually become a legacy that continues to shape sustainable tourism in the Galapagos Islands today.
Life on Floreana Island required extraordinary resilience. Without electricity, roads, or modern conveniences, the Wittmer family learned to live in harmony with nature.
They cultivated their own food, fished in the surrounding waters, and adapted to the rhythms of the island. Every challenge strengthened their connection to the Galapagos.
Their determination transformed Floreana into more than a place to live—it became their home and the foundation of a family legacy that continues more than ninety years later. Today, visitors to Floreana can still experience the peaceful landscapes that inspired the family to remain on the island for generations.
Margret Wittmer documented the family's remarkable journey in her internationally acclaimed book Floreana, offering readers a rare glimpse into life on one of the world's most isolated islands. Her stories describe not only the challenges of pioneering life but also the extraordinary beauty of the Galapagos, the unique wildlife, and the deep respect the family developed for nature. Today, her book continues to inspire travelers from around the world who seek authentic experiences and wish to better understand the fascinating human history behind the Galapagos Islands.
More than ninety years after Heinz and Margret first arrived on Floreana Island, the Wittmer family's legacy continues through Rolf Wittmer Galapagos Cruises. As direct descendants of these pioneering settlers, we proudly share not only the extraordinary wildlife of the Galapagos but also the history, traditions, and conservation values that have defined our family for generations. Every voyage is an invitation to experience the islands through the eyes of those who have called them home since 1932. When you travel with Rolf Wittmer, you are not simply taking a cruise—you become part of a living story that began on Floreana Island over nine decades ago. Born in Galapagos.
Built to Protect It. Discover the islands with the family that helped shape their history.
