13 amazing Galapagos Islands Cruises

Acqua is not one of the cheapest boats but has often great discounts, so it's worth checking out their offers as you can have the chance to grab a semi-luxury boat at the price of a standard one. It caters to a maximum of 18 guests accommodated in 9 tiny but comfortable cabins.

Acqua offers both naturalistic and diving cruises, make sure you check which one is available on the dates you want to book because they are two very different kinds of trips.

CABINS

The cabins are scattered around the boat and offer both twin or double bedding. Each room has a private en-suite bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, and storage space. In the upper deck you can also enjoy picture windows for amazing views of the sea, however, be reminded that if you are sensitive to the sea motion, you will feel it much more up there.

SHARED SPACE

Social areas dotted around the yacht include a shaded outside lounge, sun deck, indoor lounge, and library and dining area. The cuisine served on board is a mixture of local Ecuadorian and international cuisine.

Naturalist cruises include guided hikes, bird-watching, and incredible photo opportunities. I will talk about the diving cruises in another post.

Included: Transfer to and from the Airport, VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours, Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels, Toiletries.

Optional Extras: Hotel Transfer, Gratuities (10-12 USD per day), Domestic Flights (460-500 USD per trip), Soft drinks and Alcoholic Beverages.

Flexible booking*

This 22 mt yacht caters to 16 people max. and it's one of the cheapest Galapagos cruises that you can find. The rooms are in fact quite small with bunk beds but equipped with everything you need, an ensuite bathroom, a/c, shower, hot water.

Common areas include a comfortable dining room where meals are served a la cart style, an indoor salon and bar with entertainment facilities, and a sun deck for wildlife sights and for relaxing in-between activities.

ITINERARIES

On the Golondrina you can choose among many different 5 and 8-day itineraries designed to show you the best of the Galapagos even in shorter trips.

As usual, you will be guided by an experienced and professional crew and a Naturalist Guide.

Included: Transfer to and from the Airport, VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels.

Optional Extras: Alcoholic Beverages and Soft drinks - gratuities

Newly built luxury yacht, designed for maximum comfort and elegance, also one of the fastest boats in the Galapagos.

Every space is elegantly decorated with world-class finishes and decor, both the ample private cabins and the common areas.

The amazing yacht has only 6 cabins on the lower deck and 1 Master suite on the upper deck catering to a total of 14 people.

ITINERARIES

From four to five and eight-night itineraries year-round, led by a certified bilingual naturalist guide to immerse in the unique Galapagos Nature and wildlife.

Included: Transfer to and from the Airport, VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels.

Optional Extras: Travel Insurance, Gratuities, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks.

If you are looking for an affordable and yet spectacular catamaran cruise in the Galapagos this is your choice.

THE BOAT

The catamaran NEMO III is a sailing catamaran with 8 small cabins to host a maximum of 16 guests for a unique sailing experience around the Galapagos Islands.

The cabins, are compact but comfortable designed to optimize space, offering single or double beds. 

CUISINE

Delicious cuisine and snacks are provided each day, which you can enjoy in the covered outdoor dining area. Drinks are not included, though.

The comfortable outdoor seating areas (some shaded) will allow you to enjoy the sun and the spectacular landscapes besides the ability to spot the Galapagos wildlife. 

Indoor also lounges offer plenty of seating, air conditioning, and large windows. 

ITINERARIES:

There are two routes available, both of which start and finish at Baltra. Route A explores the islands to the north and west, whilst route B sails to the east and south. You can also choose among 3/4/7 nights cruises, depending on your availability. 

No matter where you go, you will be able to observe the Galapagos wildlife in its daily activity such as birds, lizards, aquatic life, and the famous Galapagos tortoise. You will also enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, swimming, and riding in a Panga boat.

Make sure you read each itinerary detail if you have a specific site in mind. 

Flexible booking*

The Archipel I Catamaran offers guests the choice of 3, 4, or 7 nights for their Galapagos Expedition.

The Archipel I is a  27m catamaran that caters for only 16 passengers with its 8  well-equipped and comfortable accommodations.

CABINS

6 twin beds, and 2 double beds each of them with amazing sea views, reading lights and wardrobes, ensuite bathrooms, and a/c.

PUBLIC SPACE 

A comfortable indoor dining room where to enjoy delicious meals served buffet style. On the top deck, you will be mesmerized at the stunning views while soaking up some rays during the day on the comfortable sun loungers.

Included: Transfer to and from the Airport, VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels, toiletteries.

ITINERARIES 

You can choose among a huge variety of itineraries of 4 days/ 3 nights or 8 days/7 nights and in different areas of the Galapagos Islands. 

Itineraries A and A4 begin in San Cristobal and end in Baltra, while the others start and end in Baltra. 

Spectacular first Class Catamaran with 8 cabins catering for a maximum of 16 guests. The luxurious and spacious cabin will make you feel like a 5-star floating hotel.

2 upper deck suites and 6 ocean view cabins. Each room features individually controlled AC, storage space, hair-dryer, and en-suite bathroom.

Also, the world-class international cuisine is a great part of the luxury experience in the Galapagos Islands.

It's a cruise that books fast, so you should plan in advance.

ITINERARIES

The spectacular itineraries through the highlights of the Galapagos start from 3 nights up to 7 nights depending on availability.

The experienced and professional crew of the MC Galapagos Seaman Journey together with your knowledgeable nature guide will help you create a vacation of a lifetime. 

Included: Transfer to and from the Airport, VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels.

Optional Extras: Local Flights (469-509 USD), Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks.

This old-fashioned boat has been constructed in 1966 as a luxury yacht, but recently fully converted into a high-class small ship cruise vessel equipped with modern amenities and safety features.

It offers a very unique, classy layout both in the outdoor decor and the 7 cabins, catering to up to 14 guests per trip only.

All the cabins have a/c, ensuite bathroom, and a window or a porthole. Some have twin bunks rather than side-by-side beds.

On the outdoor common space you can look out from the Galapagos wildlife from the observation deck or lay in the sun on the spacious sundeck.

The boat is equipped with a TV, DVD player, a video and book library, and kayaks.

A naturalist guide sails with you to accompany your group on excursions and teach you more about the local flora and fauna.

ITINERARIES

The Samba Galapagos offers only two 7-night itineraries around the Galapagos. Both begin and end in Baltra island. One itinerary includes the North and Eastern islands (Isabela and Fernandina) and the other includes the South and Western islands (Including Floreana, Española, and San Cristobal)

They are both spectacular and it's difficult to choose from. The itineraries complement each other and are organized for the guests to book two back-to-back tours which makes a complete tour of the highlights of the entire Ecuadorian Archipel.

If you cannot do both I would personally choose the North Island where you will go through the Bolivar Canal to see killer whales, hammerhead sharks and other cetaceans, and Rabida Island with the red beach.

Included:  VAT, Water, Coffee and tea, All meals (FB plan), Land tours Kayak use, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear and Guide, Towels.

Optional Extras: Transfer from and to the airport/hotel, Gratuities, Local Flights, Alcoholic and Soft drinks.

All tours are lead by a naturist guide.

Eden is a luxury boat that caters to just 16 passengers to guarantee the best service and personalized attention. 

Also please note:

• All Eden Galapagos cruises start and end in Quito and flights are included in the cost of the cruise
• Solo travelers have the option to share the room with another traveler of the same gender to avoid the single supplement
• Non-flexible booking - regular cancellation policy applies

THE BOAT

On Eden, you can choose from the following cabins

• 3 upper deck twin share bunks, 
• 1 main deck double 
• 4 lower deck twin (lower berth) cabins. 

Each cabin features en-suite bathrooms, storage space, and plugs for charging devices a/c and warm water shower. You will also get daily housekeeping service included. 

SHARED SPACE

The spacious shared space includes an ample deck where you can observe the wildlife and the spectacular Galapagos landscape. Indoor area includes a bar and restaurant room, charging station and area Audio & video entertainment.

CUSINE

You will taste a variety of delicious international meals served on a creative buffet using fresh ingredients. Vegetarian options and special meals available upon previous notice.

ACTIVITIES

Depending on the itinerary chosen, you can choose from an array of different activities depending on what's available in each destination. Activities include snorkeling around underwater craters to see the incredible underwater life, hiking to stunning viewpoints, and visits to the Charles Darwin Research Station to spot giant Galapagos tortoises. Cruising is generally done overnight to allow more time mingling with the diverse Galapagos Islands life. 

Snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, and beach towels are also included in the cost of the trip.

EDEN ITINERARIES

You can choose among 6 different itineraries, from 7 to 17 days and in different areas of the Galapagos. My favorite is the 17 days itinerary (complete Galapagos) that will take you around all the Galapagos Islands and highlights.

But if you don't have such amount of time there are many other interesting cruises of 7 - 8 and 10 days.

flexible booking*

Infinity is a modern high-end cruise for a unique Galapagos experience in comfort and luxury.

THE BOAT

The 5 spacious cabins offer an ultra-comfortable stay in an elegant space decorated with wooden floors and amazing photography on the Galapagos Islands.

The common area includes a spacious deck with fine lounges and stylish living spaces.

CABINS

6 STANDARD CABINS on the main deck double or twin (max 2p)

2 SUITES Suites with the matrimonial bed located on the upper deck

INCLUDED IN THE TRIP

VAT, Airport Transfer, Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Rental Gear, Kayaks, Naturalist Guide, Snorkel Gear, Stand Up Paddleboard, Cabin Towels.

REQUIRED EXTRA (NOT INCLUDED)

National Park Fees, Visas, and Fees, Local Flights (430-510 USD).

STAFF

The Infinity yacht has 2 National Park Guides to ensure that guests can make the most of their time in the Galapagos Islands

ITINERARIES

If you love to splurge on a luxury yacht in the Galapagos but you don't have much time, on the Infinity you can choose among four, five, or eight-night long trips each of them cruising through different areas of the Galapagos Islands.

Click on the Read more button below to learn about all the itinerary options, details, and prices.

Flexible booking*

Cormorant is a luxury Catamaran with only 8 cabins and a maximum capacity of 16 guests.

The Catamaran is from 2011 but just renovated in 2019 and has a length of 108 ft (33m)

Built for comfort and stability this catamaran is perfect for those more subject to seasickness.

The common areas include the indoor dining and lounge area, as well as an external dining area, to enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views and a refreshing sea breeze.

The sun deck has comfortable and elegant loungers, a shaded area, and a hot tub.

CABINS

The elegant and spacious cabins offer a/c en suite bathrooms, ample storage space, and their own private balcony.

1 DOUBLE STATEROOM - upper deck double bed

2 TWIN STATEROOMs - 2 cabins on the main deck, 3 cabins on the upper deck - all with twin beds

2 SUITES - upper deck with double beds

All the rooms on the upper deck are interconnected - ideal for families. 

ITINERARIES

The Cormorant offers year-round adventure cruises to the Galapagos Islands with a choice of 4, 5, 8, and 15-day tours, strategically organized and combined to offer many options of itinerary and price. 

Every month you have a choice among a unique 8 days itinerary B of the central and western islands and multiple A itineraries of 4- 5-8 days that combines many different amazing sites of the central and eastern islands. 

Each tour is led by a qualified Galapagos National Park guide, who will share their passion and knowledge of the area with you. 

Click on the button below to explore all the different itineraries. Make sure you read what's included in each itinerary with the help of the related maps. 

Yolita is a Superior level boat with only 8 spacious cabins, nicely decorated with Galapagos-themed photography, for maximum comfort of the guests. The small group of a Maximum of 16 guests guarantees personalized service. 

Also please note:

• All Yolita Galapagos cruises start and end in Quito and flights are included in the cost of the cruise
• Solo travelers have the option to share the room with another traveler of the same gender to avoid the single supplement
• Non-flexible booking - regular cancellation policy applies

THE BOAT

On Yolita, you can choose from the following cabins

• 4 upper deck twin cabins with window, A/C, and private en suite bathrooms. 
• 4 main deck twin cabins with window, A/C, and private en suite bathrooms. 

The upper deck offers a large space to bask in the sunshine or chill out on the lounge chairs of the covered deck. 

Indoor common areas include a lounge, bar, and dining room, where a local chef will delight you with Ecuadorian and international specialties. 

A certified naturalist guide will be with you throughout the cruise to tell you all about the area’s wildlife.

ITINERARIES

On the Yolita you can choose among 7 - 10 or 17-day itineraries each one with a specific itinerary to discover the best of the Galapagos Islands. 

Depending on which one you choose, here below some of the highlights:

• spotting flamingos and sea lions at Bachas Beach, 
• bird watching at Darwin Bay, 
• seeing the volcanic landscapes of Bartolomé Island, 
• hiking to the Sierra Negra Volcano, 
• seeing marine iguanas at Fernandina Island
• strolling the sands of Playa Espumilla
• snorkeling at Kicker Rock
• marveling at the huge Galapagos giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station,

Click on the link below to see the available dates and detailed itineraries

Non-flexible rate*

Best for solo travelers - no single cabin fees

Go back in time and join this spectacular 52m sailing ship, with over 1000m2 of canvas sails. This 3-masted schooner is one of the only ships in the Galapagos to sail with no engine support.

The fun part is that the guests are asked to help with raising the sails for a true authentic Galapagos expedition.

The awesome and knowledgeable staff will be a great part of your experience happy to share their sailing skills with you.

The best part is of this journey is that you won't hear any engine sounds, just the music of the ocean and the breeze, which also invites whales and dolphins to swim alongside the ship.

CABINS

The 6 double cabins and 6 single cabins all have private bathrooms with hot water.

This boat doesn't have luxury finishings and fancy cabins, but it offers a luxury experience, with lots of space for the guests to enjoy their experience and relax.

On the main deck are the dining room, kitchen, lounge with entertainment area, and library. Meals can also be served al-fresco to enjoy the stunning Galapagos views and sunsets. Enjoy international and local Ecuadorian cuisine with fresh ingredients.

S/S Mary Anne offers two incredible Galapagos expedition itineraries, each one of 7 nights.

Galapagos West itinerary - you will explore Santiago, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz, Floreana, and Fernandina to have amazing encounters with Sea Lions, Penguins, and amazing snorkeling.

Galapagos East itinerary - includes Darwin Bay, Santa Fe, Gardner Bay, and Bartolome with lava bubbles and penguins galore!

Mary Anne guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

One of the most spectacular luxury yacht in the Galapagos, and the most expensive, and yet it fills up fast.

Catering to just 20 guests, the 142ft Origin guarantees a top-notch service with its 14 crew members, including a full-time concierge and two expert naturalist guides.

There are 10 spacious world-class cabins that come with en-suite bathrooms, biodegradable toiletries, bathrobes & slippers, climate control, large picture windows, ample storage space, twin beds that can be converted to one king, and memory foam toppers and pillows. A real luxury hotel room in the ocean.

The world-class cuisine is also part of the onboard ultra-luxury experience on board.

ITINERARIES

Galapagos cruises aboard Origin rotate between two itineraries:

Itinerary A - to the southern and central islands

Itinerary B - which explores the western and northern islands.

The activities available on all cruises include landscape explorations, hikes on the vulcanos and walks on the deserted beach, rides on the zodiac to see coves and caves, look for the wildlife, and getting the best snorkeling spots, besides kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.