Best Galapagos Cruise - Budget to Luxurious

How to choose The Best Galapagos Cruise?

First, it’s important to understand the size of the Galapagos Islands and how they are divided into regions, each with its own itinerary. The itineraries last a minimum of 4-5 days, allowing you to explore each region thoroughly and without feeling rushed. Consider the species of wildlife you want to see, the unique geological features of each island, and the activities available such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. Ultimately, the best Galapagos cruise itinerary is the one that suits your interests.

What Islands and Wildlife Do you Want to See?​

To help you choose the perfect itinerary for your Galapagos adventure, I’ve broken down the islands into three regions, each with unique character and wildlife. Although these are the chronological divisions of the regions, keep in mind that some companies offer more compact itineraries for 4-5 day trips that only cover parts of these regions, such as northern, southern, western, and eastern regions, with the starting point in Baltra/Santa Cruz island.

The Northwestern Region is a highly requested area and includes the younger, pristine islands full of endemic wildlife. This region is a must-see destination for anyone seeking bountiful marine life, including the largest colony of tropical penguins in the Galapagos.

Genovesa Island boasts one of the most spectacular birdwatching sites, with red-footed boobies, great frigatebirds, and swallow-tailed gulls nesting there. Marchena Island is one of the least visited islands, with untouched landscapes and crystal-clear waters that make it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Bartolome Island is famous for its picturesque Pinnacle Rock and breathtaking views from the top of the island. Fernandina Island is one of the archipelago’s youngest islands and has less vegetation than some of the other commonly visited islands, but it’s full of wildlife. Santiago Island has a rich buccaneers and whalers history and is known for its lava fields, while Rabida Island’s red-sanded beach and flamingo lagoon are must-see attractions.

The Southeastern Region includes the oldest islands in the archipelago, and millions of years of geological activity have led to fascinating landscapes and unique species that have evolved in total isolation. You might want to choose these islands within your itinerary because they have some of the most amazing snorkel sites and massive wildlife colonies you might find in a National Geographic documentary.

Española Island, the furthest south in the Galapagos, has two main visitor sites, Gardner Bay and Suarez Point, where visitors can relax on a fabulous stretch of white sand beach or witness the stunning waved albatross and marine iguanas. Floreana Island has a green-tinged beach at Punta Cormorant, where visitors can see flamingos, Sally Lightfoot crabs, and green sea turtles. And San Cristobal Island contains many visitor points full of wildlife of which, Kicker Rock is one of the most incredible geological formations off its shores. This is a massive eroded lava cone jutting 500 feet out of the water. You can swim through it and snorkel with hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, rays, and vividly colored fish.

The Central Region includes the islands of Santa Cruz, Baltra, North Seymour, South and North Plaza, Santa Fe, and Mosquera. On South Plaza Island, visitors can witness the famous land iguanas and unique vegetation, while Santa Fe Island boasts a beautiful turquoise lagoon and fantastic snorkeling spots.

Any visit to the islands will include some time on central Santa Cruz Island and/or San Cristobal Island in the southeast. These are inhabited islands with airports linked to mainland Ecuador, so will be your arrival and departure points. These islands also have popular visitor sites, so cruises often include some visits here. Some amazing excursions include highland visits to see the Giant Galapagos Tortoise, with beautiful beach visits to see sea lions and marine iguanas that are the only guests, and a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center which displays the ongoing efforts of Galapagos conservation which affords guests a glimpse of the tortoise breeding program.

Short or Long Duration Cruises

For those who prefer shorter trips, most cruise companies offer two routes lasting 4-5 days. These routes will usually take you to one of the four regions of the Galapagos Islands (north, south, east, or west islands), where you’ll discover a variety of natural wonders that will leave you in awe. With plenty of excursion stops, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the islands’ unique ecosystems and witness some of the most incredible sights in the world. Just keep in mind that two days of the trip include boarding and departure, and the final day usually ends in the early afternoon.

If you want a more comprehensive experience, go for a 6-8 day itinerary covering the entire Galapagos Islands. With many options available, you’ll get to explore multiple regions, see more unique and varied wildlife and discover remote areas with hidden gems that few tourists get to see. Long-duration cruises offer more full days of exploration, so you’ll have plenty of time to immerse yourself in the islands’ breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture. And if you really want to see it all, there are even 15-day options available!

Booking Your Galapagos Cruise in Advance

When booking your Galapagos Cruise/Liveaboard Experience, it’s crucial to keep availability in mind, especially if you have specific travel dates in mind. As spots for Galapagos cruises tend to fill up quickly, it’s best to reserve them well in advance. You can contact the companies directly through the links provided in the next section or book online through Viator, a reliable TripAdvisor company that allows tour agencies and yacht companies to share their tours and special offers.

I have handpicked the best cruise available online from the most famous and rated company in Ecuador, Metropolitan Touring. They have only 5-star reviews and are really an exceptional company. Book with them confidently; you will have the best time of your life in the Galapagos. After the Metropolitan ones, I’ve listed the Monserrat Yacht, which also has great reviews on Tripadvisor. And at the very last, the Samba Sailing Ship for a special adventure:

Comparing Boat Sizes and Types

There are over 80 different boats that cruise through the Galapagos National Park, offering unique and unforgettable experiences for every taste. From smaller boats like Catamarans, Motor Yachts, Sailing Yachts (with a motor), Scuba-diving Yachts, and Trimarans to larger options like Cruise Ships, the choices are endless.

Among the smaller boats, there are various types to choose from, each with its own benefits and unique features. For stability and ample space, a Catamaran might be the perfect choice for you. If you want to relax and soak in the breathtaking scenery, a Motor Yacht or Motor Sailor could be more your style. A Scuba-diving Yacht is an excellent option for those who love to dive and explore underwater spots, and a Trimaran can offer an exhilarating ride for those looking for speed and excitement.

In the Galapagos Islands, the primary yacht classes are divided into four categories: basic, superior, first-class, and luxury yachts. Basic yachts are the most economical option, with prices ranging from $300-400 USD per passenger per night, and they are ideal for those on a budget. Superior yachts offer slightly larger cabins, beds, bathrooms, and more dining and lounge space, with prices ranging from $400-600 USD per night.

First-class yachts are even more luxurious, with prices ranging from $600-799 USD per night, and they offer more private space, with lounges, decks, and solariums that provide privacy and solitude. Additionally, some first-class yachts come with a jacuzzi on the solarium, private balconies, interconnecting rooms, indoor and outdoor bars, king-sized beds, and in-room HD televisions. Luxury yachts are the most expensive option, with prices starting from $800+ USD per night, and they offer the most amenities, such as cabins that feel like luxury hotel rooms, balconies, large windows, jacuzzis, glass-bottom kayaks, and large bathrooms. They also provide an unrivaled level of attention and service, including an onboard cruise manager and a skilled bartender. Some luxury yachts even offer rental-free GoPros for snorkeling.

Aside from yachts, Galapagos cruise ships also offer different features and benefits, such as a doctor on board, gyms, libraries, and glass-bottom boats. These ships have a higher passenger limit, ranging from 32 to 100 passengers, and have cabins ranging from luxury to superior or first-class quality. The price of the cabins depends on the size, quality, and facilities.

The size of the boats is also an essential factor that sets each boat type apart. Basic yachts are the smallest and most compact, accommodating 12 to 20 passengers. Superior yachts are generally larger, accommodating 16 to 20 passengers. First-class yachts can hold up to 36 passengers, while luxury yachts are the largest, accommodating up to 100 passengers. Galapagos cruise ships have an even higher capacity, ranging from 32 to 100 passengers.

It’s worth noting that the size of the boat can affect your overall experience. Smaller yachts may provide a more intimate and personalized experience, while larger ships offer more amenities and facilities. Ultimately, the size of the boat you choose will depend on your personal preferences and priorities.

If you want to check all your options I advise you to go to the Happy Gringo website, or Liveaboard website and choose a boat from their entire list (they have a comprehensive list of all the yachts and cruises in the Galapagos and are highly-rated travel companies)

Comfort and Amenities

Embarking on a Galapagos cruise is an enchanting and unforgettable experience, providing a plethora of opportunities for exploration and discovery amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. While the trip is primarily focused on observing the fascinating wildlife, it is also crucial to take into account the comfort and amenities offered on board. Here are some delightful features to look forward to during your Galapagos cruise:

Doctor on Board - Among the many features that distinguish cruise ships from other yachts is the availability of a medical officer on board. This is especially helpful for families with young children, older people, or travelers with health concerns. A handful of Galapagos vessels offer a 24-hour onboard Medical Officer, providing a sense of reassurance and security in the event of any unforeseen emergencies.

WiFi - While disconnecting from the internet can be a refreshing change, some passengers may still wish to share their experiences with loved ones or stay connected during their trip. Most ships provide WiFi, but it is wise to check the pricing and data plan to avoid any surprises.

Spacious Lounge Areas - Galapagos cruise ships offer a host of amenities, including gyms with weight and cardio equipment, libraries, and glass-bottom boats - an excellent alternative to snorkeling. Glass-bottom boats are especially advantageous for older people or travelers who prefer to explore the underwater wonders of the Galapagos without getting wet. It is crucial to choose a cruise that offers a full range of exploration tools, such as kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear, as only a few ships provide these activities.

Hot Tub on Board - Imagine soaking in the relaxing hot waters after an exhilarating day of exploring the Galapagos Islands. A hot tub is a more realistic amenity bonus than a swimming pool as you’ll be spending most of your time in the vast ocean surrounding the islands. It’s easily accessible from the boarding platform and useful all year round, especially during the hot season when explorers love to spend as much time as possible in the ocean.

Other Luxuries and Amenities - In addition to the above, some yachts offer small groups per Naturalist certified guide, an Expedition Leader on board, floor-to-ceiling windows in all cabins, panoramic windows in common areas, interconnected cabins for families and groups, sun deck with unobstructed views, massage expert on board, exquisite cuisine, fitness center, coffee and tea station, swimming pool, stargazing area, auditorium, kids playground, etc…

Picking the Right Cruise Company

Embarking on a Galapagos cruise is an absolutely magical and unforgettable experience, one that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Choosing the right company to travel with is crucial to ensure that your journey is not only successful but also thoroughly enjoyable. With so many options to choose from, finding the perfect fit can be a daunting task. But worry not! This guide has got you covered. I’ve carefully compiled the top Galapagos cruise companies to help you make the best decision for your needs. Below you’ll find a list of the most reputable companies operating in the Galapagos Islands.

I’ve even gone the extra mile and checked which company each cruise belongs to, to ensure that you have all the information you need at your fingertips. As a general rule, the more yachts a travel company has, the more reputable and experienced they are. With that in mind, the following list is ordered from the most famous companies with multiple types of boats and itineraries, followed by the best ones with only one vessel after.

If you’re looking for a price comparison, I’ve got you covered there too! Check out the sections below for a comprehensive list of all the cruises and their prices. For those companies without a website, don’t worry - you can find them via Liveaboard or Galapatours websites:

Royal Galapagos: Cormorant II (catamaran), Horizon (trimaran), Infinity (motor yacht and charter), Natural Paradise (motor yacht and charter), Grand Majestic (motor yacht and charter), and Calipso (motor yacht, dive yacht, and charter)

Galagents: Galaxy Diver (dive yacht), Alya (catamaran), Ecogalaxy (catamaran), Galaxy (motor yacht), and Bonita (motor yacht)

Oniric Safari Cruises: Treasure (catamaran), Aqua (dive yacht), Solaris (motor yacht and charter), Archipel I (catamaran and charter), and Archipel II (catamaran)

Golden Galapagos: Elite (catamaran), Endemic (catamaran), Ocean Spray (catamaran), and Petrel (catamaran)

Metropolitan Touring: La Pinta (motor yacht), Santa Cruz II (cruise ship), and Isabela II (motor yacht)

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Flora (cruise ship), Celebrity Xpedition (cruise ship), and Celebrity Xploration (catamaran)

GoGalapagos: Galapagos Legend (cruise ship), Coral I (motor yacht), and Coral II (motor yacht)

Ecoventura: Origin (motor yacht), Theory (motor yacht), and Evolve (motor yacht)

Nemo Galapagos Cruises: Nemo I (catamaran), Nemo II (catamaran), and  Nemo III (catamaran)

Tip Top Cruises: Tip Top II (catamaran), Tip Top IV (motor yacht), and Tip Top V (catamaran), and Köln (motor yacht)

National Geographic: Islander II (cruise ship), and Endeavour II (cruise ship)

Quasar Expeditions: Grace (motor yacht), and Evolution (motor yacht)

Silversea by Royal Caribbean: Silver Origin (cruise ship)

Aqua Expeditions: Aqua Mare (motor yacht)

Monserrat (motor yacht) | Integrity (motor yacht) | Stella Maris (motor yacht and charter) | Anahi (catamaran) | Seaman Journey (catamaran) | Seastar (motor yacht) | The Samba (motor-sailing yacht) | Grand Queen Beatriz (motor yacht) | Beluga (motor yacht) | Aida Maria (motor yacht) | Angelito (motor yacht) | Cachalote Explorer: (motor yacht) | Eden (motor yacht) | Millenium (catamaran) | Fragata (motor yacht and charter) | Golondrina (motor yacht) | Grand Daphne (motor yacht) | Yolita II (motor yacht) | Sky: (dive yacht) | Agressor III (dive yacht) | Nortada (dive yacht)

Boats you can find on Liveaboard.com and Galapatours.com

Reina Silvia Voyager (catamaran) | Mary Anne (motor-sailing yacht) | Estrella del Mar (motor yacht) | Letty (motor yacht) Humboldt Explorer (dive yacht) | Tiburon Explorer (dive yacht) | Xavier III (motor yacht) | Danubio Azul (dive yacht) | Beagle (motor-sailing yacht) | Master (dive yacht) | Odyssey (motor yacht) | Equinox (motor yacht) | Passion (motor yacht)

Galapagos Charter (Private) vs. Galapagos Cruise

Why settle for a shared experience on a Galapagos Cruise when you can have the ultimate private and personalized vacation with a Galapagos Charter? Imagine cruising around the islands on your own yacht, with a hand-selected team of staff ready to cater to your every need. From specialist guides and masseuses to customized menus and open bars, the possibilities are endless.

With a charter, you have the freedom to tailor every aspect of your trip to your specific wishes and interests, ensuring that your Galapagos experience is truly unique and unforgettable. Choose from a range of yacht options to fit your budget, from comfortable to super deluxe and luxury class. And with excellent discounts available, a charter may even offer a better price than a Galapagos Cruise.

The smallest cruise yacht has a capacity for 14 guests, while the biggest ship allows up to 100 passengers. The charter rates range from $31,072 for a 4-day cruise on the Fragata Yacht to $198,500 for an 8-day cruise on the Stella Maris. In comparison to a Galapagos cruise, a charter may offer exclusivity, better pricing, and a personalized experience. Ultimately, the choice between a charter and a cruise comes down to your preferences and budget.

In the previous section, I mentioned the cruises available for charter. However, if you have your heart set on a particular boat that is not listed for charter, it’s worth contacting the companies directly as they may be willing to make an exception if you can provide persuasive reasons.

Price Comparison (per person in USD)

I’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the available options, complete with their respective categories, classes, type of vessel, capacity in terms of people, and itinerary days. My sources include HappyGringo’s website, Liveaboard.com, and, where possible, the owner’s company pages. For more precise pricing information, I recommend contacting the yacht owner’s company directly.

Activities on a Galapagos Cruise

When choosing the best cruise for your Galapagos adventure, it’s important to consider the activities that are most important to you.

Snorkeling and hiking are super popular and for good reason! Snorkeling is a chance to meet amazing marine life face-to-face, while hiking gets you close to the unique landscapes and wildlife of the Galapagos.

However, some cruises go above and beyond, offering additional activities such as kayaking and glass-bottom kayaking. These more luxurious yachts may also offer other unique experiences such as scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding, so don’t forget to research and find the cruise that fits your must-do activities.

Tips for a Successful Galapagos Cruise

Going on a Galapagos cruise can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to keep a few things in mind to make it a success. One thing to consider is the size of the cruise line. While larger cruise lines may seem convenient, they can also come with a few downsides.

For example, larger crowds on the ship can mean longer lines and more waiting time for activities like snorkeling. Smaller, more intimate ships can offer a more personalized and flexible experience. Plus, with fewer people, you’ll have more opportunities for up-close encounters with the unique wildlife of the Galapagos.

Another thing to consider is the quality of the guides. Guides can make a huge difference in your overall experience, so it’s worth doing some research to find a cruise line with knowledgeable and passionate guides.

Overall, when planning your Galapagos cruise, it’s important to prioritize the things that matter most to you. Whether you’re looking for a more personalized experience, more flexibility in your itinerary, or the opportunity for up-close wildlife encounters, there’s a cruise line out there that can offer it. So do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions to find the best fit for your needs.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect Galapagos cruise for your budget might feel overwhelming at first, but with a little research, you’ll discover an option that fits your travel style. Think about what matters most to you—whether it’s the type of boat, the itinerary, or the activities - and you’ll be well on your way to an incredible trip. And if cruising isn’t your thing, no worries! We’ve got plenty of land-based options, from tours to hotels, so you can still experience the magic of the islands.

No matter how you choose to explore, one thing’s for sure - the Galapagos will enchant you. From up-close wildlife encounters to breathtaking landscapes, this is a place that promises an adventure you’ll never forget.

Where to Stay in the Galapagos

All the Articles About The Galapagos

San Cristobal Island - The easternmost island of the Galápagos, the “Isla Bonita”

Santa Cruz Island - The island with the best tourism infrastructure.

Isabela Island - The most adventurous and less explored island of the main three.