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The Best Galápagos Island Cruises

A cruise is one of the best ways to see all that this remote Ecuadorian archipelago has to offer.

There's no better way to cover ground on your trip to the Galápagos Islands than to sail on a multiday cruise.

Galápagos National Park regulates the number and type of tourist boats that are allowed to operate in the famously biodiverse area. This helps with overcrowding, conserving the environment, and minimizing stress on the amazing wildlife of the Galápagos. Many tourist boats in the area offer five- to seven-day all-inclusive itineraries that are strictly monitored by the national park officials. There are also cruises operating illegally, so you have to take care when choosing a tour.

To help you find a cruise fit for your wildest dreams, we've rounded up 14 of the best options, whether you prefer a small ship or bigger vessel, an action-packed itinerary or a casual drift around this remote archipelago in the Pacific.

5 Things to do in Galápagos

Small galápagos cruises.

Most of the cruise ships in the Galápagos Islands carry fewer than 20 passengers. These vessels, typically motor yachts, can't provide some of the luxurious amenities available on larger ships, but they do ensure personalized service, a more intimate experience, and quicker trips on and off the boat.

Quasar Grace

The 18-passenger Grace was once owned by Grace Kelly. She and Prince Rainier spent part of their honeymoon on the motor yacht, and now you can sleep in their bedroom, the Grace Kelly Suite, which is one of nine rooms aboard. The ship sails three routes, taking eight to 15 days, and guests get plenty of snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and panga rides along the way.

Ecoventura Letty

The Letty is one of the best full-service motor yachts in the Galápagos for value. This 20-passenger boat is a solid option with great service and comfortable accommodations. A trip on the Letty promises a 10 guest-per-guide ratio, as well as dinner with the captain. You get a choice between two seven-day itineraries, each including opportunities to snorkel, hike, and learn about the local wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

Ecoventura Origin

The 20-passenger Origin is like a floating boutique hotel. All 10 cabins are on the same deck, there’s an open-bar policy, and Wi-Fi is available on board. A unique hull design means this ship is also one of the most fuel-efficient in the Galápagos. Like the Letty , Ecoventura's Origin sails two routes around the archipelago, each lasting eight days and providing plenty of chances to get up close to nature.

Medium Galápagos Ships

If you're stuck between whether to book your cruise on a small ship or a large vessel — both have their advantages — one of these medium-sized boats accommodating 20 to 50 passengers could be the best of both worlds. You'll enjoy more space, a larger group to mingle with, and sometimes a wider variety of activities and services to accommodate more people.

Quasar Evolution

The 32-passenger Evolution was designed by Adriana Hoyos, a furniture and interior designer renowned for her work on luxury hotels across the Americas. Its cabins have a contemporary boutique-hotel aesthetic. There are indoor and outdoor lounges, a bar, and a library. Passengers can choose between three itineraries, ranging from eight to 15 days and taking different routes around the Galápagos.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Islander II

All cabins on the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II have windows, and some even have private patios. The ship offers deck hammocks, Wi-Fi, and food made with ingredients sourced from farms in the Galápagos whenever possible. Itineraries range from seven to 12 days and include cultural experiences in addition to wildlife viewing and water sports.

Large Galápagos Ships

Galápagos National Park officials have set a maximum of 100 passengers per vessel, so these are some of the largest ships in the archipelago. Travelers may opt for a larger-capacity cruise ship for more space (such as bigger hallways and staircases for easier movement around the ship) and increased services like an onboard doctor. The downside of traveling on a large ship is the time it can take to complete transfers by zodiac from the boat to the islands. Also, some areas of the Galápagos may be off limits to larger ships.

Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Endeavour II

The 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II has Wi-Fi, a doctor, SUP gear, a clear-bottom zodiac, a free digital photo kiosk with iMacs, and a spa. Like the Islander II, food brought from the mainland is carefully prepared and packaged to prevent the introduction of invasive species to the Galápagos Islands.

Celebrity Flora

The 100-passenger Celebrity Flora features all of the design elements, amenities, and services of its sibling ships and then some. It has two 1,288-square-foot penthouse suites (the largest in the Galápagos), naturalist-guided stargazing sessions, and outdoor cabanas that you can reserve for a unique glamping experience.

Silversea Silver Origin

The 100-passenger Silver Origin is an all-suite ship with accommodations up to 1,722 square feet, some with in-room espresso machines and mini-bars, private verandas, and butler service. Tips are included in the price. The ship also has a fitness center, a spa, a communal fire pit, and two restaurants. There are more than 100 cruise options, some lasting as long as 18 days.

Galápagos Catamarans

These small boats have a unique hull design, like the dual parallel runners of a sled, that many believe makes catamarans more stable in the water.

Celebrity Xploration

The 16-passenger Celebrity Xploration is arguably the most luxurious catamaran in the Galápagos. Its eight suites and junior suites feature extras like binoculars, personal refrigerators, a pillow menu, and room service. The catamaran cruises two routes, a northern route and a southern route, both lasting seven nights.

Anahi Yacht Catamaran

The Anahi has eight rooms accommodating up to 16 passengers, including two spacious suites. Travelers can expect traditional yacht design details, like polished wooden floors and portrait windows. There are multiple itineraries to choose from, each stopping off at different islands and exploring different parts of the Galápagos. The cruises range in duration from four to 15 days.

Royal Galapagos Cormorant II

The Cormorant II can carry 16 passengers in nine cabins, all with private balconies. Some of the suites even come with walk-in closets and their own Jacuzzi tubs. Travelers can opt for a four- to eight-day cruise with inclusive excursions such as snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Live-aboard Dive Boats

If you’re a certified scuba diver, a live-aboard dive boat might be for you. These boats are built to accommodate the specific needs (and gear) of divers, and they navigate special routes and itineraries that include top dive sites. The Galápagos is home to whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, spotted eagle rays, manta rays, sunfish, and many other marine creatures.

Explorer Ventures Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer

Explorer Ventures ' two live-aboard vessels, the Humboldt Explorer and Tiburon Explorer , accommodate 16 passengers each. The Humboldt has a large dive deck, which makes it easier to get into and out of your dive gear. The eight-day excursion includes up to 19 dives and the 11-day excursion includes up to 28.

Galápagos Nortada

The 84-foot Nortada has only four cabins and can sleep eight guests. Passengers can congregate on the bridge, the galley, or in the dining room and lounge. Dive trips last either seven or 14 nights, and itineraries include up to four dives a day.

Galápagos Aggressor III

The Aggressor ships have been cruising around the Galápagos Islands since 1993. The Galápagos Aggressor III accommodates 16 passengers. Charters last a week and include four dives a day plus two land excursions.

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6 Best Galapagos Cruises For Every Kind of Traveler

Galapagos cruises are the best way to experience the collection of remote, mostly uninhabited islands about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. But cruises in the Galapagos Islands aren’t like cruises anyplace else. The ships here are smaller, with some carrying as few as 16 passengers. There are no water slides, elaborate Broadway shows, casinos, or wild nightclubs. And don’t expect big bus tours in port either. 

Galapagos cruises are about experiencing nature and wildlife while limiting environmental impact as much as possible. Ships are built for sustainability and toting items like kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba gear. Itineraries may feature two active excursions a day, limiting downtime on board the ship. Instead of museums and historic sights, you’ll visit uninhabited islands to encounter marine iguanas, sea lions, unspoiled beaches, and the adventures of a lifetime. 

Trips to the Galapagos Islands are logistically complicated, making cruises an especially good way to experience the area. Travelers to the Galapagos Islands must first fly to Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador, for a night before flying to the Galapagos to board their ships. All travelers must also be accompanied by National Parks Guides who can help them navigate these largely undeveloped islands. 

Galapagos cruise itineraries are typically a week long and cover a portion of the islands, sometimes more. Here's everything to know about cruising in the Galapagos, from frequently asked questions to the best itineraries to book now.

• Best luxury Galapagos cruise
• Best Galapagos cruise for stargazing  
• Best Galapagos cruise for adventure seekers  
• Best Galapagos cruises for solo travelers  
• Best small ship Galapagos cruise  

Best Galapagos cruises for families

When is the best time to cruise the galapagos islands .

With pleasant temperatures all year long, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is whenever you’re ready to go. Several cruise lines sail to the Galapagos Islands all year long. While you can see wildlife all year, December is hatching season for the giant tortoises, and July is mating season for blue-footed boobies and short-eared owls. Sea turtles lay their eggs early in the year and fully formed marine iguanas typically hatch in April and May. 

Are Galapagos cruises expensive?  

The Galapagos Islands aren’t a bargain destination. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. 

One thing’s for sure: Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. These are six of the best Galapagos cruises for every type of traveler.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

A suite on board Silver Origin comes with butler service.

Best luxury Galapagos cruise 

There’s no more luxurious way to sail the Galapagos Islands than on  Silversea's Silver Origin , a ship custom-built for cruising these islands. Silver Origin is Silversea’s first destination-specific ship and includes several features meant to minimize its environmental impact. The all-suite ship can carry up to 100 passengers, is all-inclusive down to the premium spirits in your stateroom's minibar, and includes the luxury cruise line’s signature butler service. There’s also a salon and fitness center on board, a rarity for ships sailing in this region. Most itineraries on the Silver Origin are seven nights, but longer cruises are typically scheduled around winter holidays. The Silver Origin sails the north, central, and western loops of the Galapagos Islands.

Best Galapagos cruise for stargazing 

This region may be better known for its landscapes and wildlife, but the Galapagos Islands are also an excellent place for stargazing. And there’s no better Galapagos cruise ship for stargazing than the  Celebrity Flora . The 100-passenger vessel feels more like a luxury yacht than an expedition ship. It has a stargazing platform on its top deck and provides binoculars to help guests spot constellations as the ship cruises along the equator. The modern expedition ship also offers a glamping experience that includes a naturalist-guided stargazing session and a luxurious night of glamping under the stars. Prefer to sleep in your bed on board? Have dinner under the stars at the ship’s restaurant before heading back to your suite. The Celebrity Flora ’s Galapagos itineraries range from seven to 16 nights. 

Best Galapagos cruise for adventure seekers 

Lindblad Expeditions has been cruising the Galapagos Islands for more than 50 years. It now sails to the Galapagos year-round in partnership with National Geographic, giving guests the chance to encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and more. A staff of expert guides is on board to help travelers spot wildlife and better understand the volcanic landscapes, mangrove thickets, and seagrasses they encounter. Activities include unforgettable snorkeling adventures, hikes through pristine wilderness, and walks along remote beaches. Lindblad’s newest Galapagos Islands cruise ship, the National Geographic Islander II , feels more like a boutique hotel than an expedition ship and carries just 48 passengers in 26 suites. Some itineraries offer advanced divers the chance to commune with a variety of marine life. And while rugged adventures may await travelers off the ship, each suite offers travelers plenty of comfort: They come equipped with flat-screen TVs, in-room espresso machines, and bathrooms with double sinks.

Best Galapagos cruises for solo travelers 

Galapagos cruises aren’t cheap, especially if you’re sailing solo. Hurtigruten makes cruising the Galapagos Islands more affordable by waiving the single supplement on several of its Galapagos cruises. Hurtigruten Galapagos cruises range from seven to 14 days in length and take place on the MS Santa Cruz II , a ship that comes equipped with panga boats, kayaks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and a glass-bottom boat for viewing marine life. The ship carries a maximum of 90 passengers, and its operations are carbon-neutral. There’s a small gym and a hot tub on board. Regular prices start around $8,500 for a one-week cruise. Look for sales to bring your price down even further.

Best small ship Galapagos cruise 

Avalon Waterways may be better known for its European river cruises , but it also sails the Galapagos Islands. Avalon sails this region on two ships, the Treasure of the Galapagos and the Delfin III . The Delfin III , which also sails the Amazon in Peru, is its newest and most luxurious Galapagos cruise ship. The ship has just 22 suites, almost guaranteeing you’ll make new friends along the journey. The Treasure of the Galapagos is even smaller, carrying a maximum of 16 guests. And while there’s no long list of restaurants on board either ship, there are creative, locally inspired menus featuring seasonal ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. On board both ships, you’ll find daily natural history lectures, a team of multilingual naturalists, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, and plunge pools.  

For an adventure your kids will never forget, hop on board an Adventures by Disney cruise of the Galapagos Islands. Just be sure to wait until your kids are at least seven years old. This is the minimum age for most Galapagos cruises, though Disney recommends this itinerary for children eight and older. This isn’t your typical Disney cruise. It’s a small ship expedition itinerary with a hint of Disney magic in a setting fit for a fairy tale. Adventures by Disney's Galapagos itineraries span nine days and visit about 15 sites. 

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The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to the Best Galapagos Cruises (Updated 2022)

• February 6, 2021
• Flashpacking in South America

How to choose your ideal Galapagos Cruise?

Table of contents.

For most avid travellers and wildlife lovers, the Galapagos Islands is a must-do bucket list destination. I’ve been to many “wildlife heavy” destinations, but to me there is nothing quite as special and unique as the Galapagos Islands. Only a few other places around the world offer more spectacular close-up wildlife encounters (don’t touch, just watch) surrounded by such diverse volcanic landscapes. While an entirely land-based trip is possible, I do recommend exploring the archipelago on one of the many Galapagos cruises offered as part of your trip. 

I was only 15 years old when I visited the Galapagos Islands for the first time in 2003. When I stepped aboard that refurbished cutter that would be our home for the next six days, I knew instantly how special this trip would be. Out of the three times I’ve visited since then, I was lucky enough to explore the islands on a Galapagos cruise twice. 

Besides the Galapagos cruises I have experienced first hand, I’ve also viewed a wide range of moored and anchored yachts and catamarans for my previous role as a Galapagos consultant. To give clients the best advice on which Galapagos cruise to go for, it was crucial to get an idea of the boats myself. So what’s important when doing research on the Galapagos cruise that’s perfect for you? There are certain deciding factors to consider such as:

• Time and Budget
• Route and Wildlife Wish List
• Type of Vessel - Yacht or Catamaran

Why Trip Length and Routing go Hand in Hand

Most larger (up to 100 passengers) and mid-sized (up to 50 passengers) vessels will either depart from Baltra, on the northern tip of Santa Cruz Island or set off from Puerto Baquerizo on San Cristobal Island. Occasionally you’ll find smaller yachts (up to 20 passengers) setting off directly from Puerto Ayora, the most populous city and heart of the Galapagos on Santa Cruz Island.

Due to the mostly large distances between the islands, Galapagos cruises with shorter itineraries will mostly remain in the southeastern and central part of the archipelago. This means that for example on a 3-night/4-day cruise, you might visit parts of San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Floreana, Santa Fé and South Plazas. To explore the more remote western islands of the archipelago such as Santiago, Isabela and Fernandina you will almost always have to decide for an at least 4- or even 5-night cruise.

The Big B - The Budget needed for a Galapagos Cruise

A Galapagos cruise is expensive. And although “expensive” means different things for different people, the Galapagos Islands are one of the more expensive destinations in South America. As a rough estimate, a 7-day Galapagos cruise on a mid-range yacht or catamaran, plus a couple of nights in Quito (which you need to factor in) prior and domestic flights will start at around $5000-$6000 USD per person. This excludes the international flights to and from Ecuador.

If you book last minute, you can see Galapagos cruise prices go down by usually about $500 per person, sometimes up to $1000.

Between July and September when the sea state is a little rougher and visibility underwater slightly lower, operators tend to knock off about 15%-30% of cabin prices. The overall price is also dependent on the type of cabin you choose on a particular boat. Upper deck cabins, often featuring larger windows and a better view, can be a lot more expensive.

To provide some ballpark figures, you can expect the following prices in USD for a Galapagos cruise, not including flights, National Park entry fees, transfers or accommodation in Quito prior and after your trip to the Galapagos.

Don’t let this put you off though, there are plenty of ways to knock off a lot of that cost as explained in my  post about how to travel the Galapagos Islands on a budget .

Prices will naturally overlap due to the season, size of vessel and cabin type. Cabins can vary greatly, from lower deck cabins with only portholes to upper deck cabins with panoramic windows. Some cabins on boats in the budget segment will have bunk beds. This is great for solo travellers looking to share a cabin.  

Smaller Budget - Shorter Cruise?

Mostly, yes. For all of us explorers with no unlimited budget, a Galapagos cruise will always be a trade-off between comfort, cabin size as well as amenities of the boat, trip length and hence how much of the archipelago you’ll see. So you have to figure out your priorities. A 3- night Galapagos cruise on one of the top luxury ships will cost you as much as a 6-night Galapagos cruise on a boat in the luxury class!

Sample Galapagos Cruise Itineraries

Below you’ll find six example routes, which I included to help you get an idea about which parts of the archipelago can be visited in what amount of time. For me there is absolutely no better or worse itinerary. Each volcanic island is unique – from barren volcanic rock formations, to lush forests, deep craters, black beaches and moon like landscapes covered in bright red sand. 

3-night Routes

5-night Routes

7-night Routes

For Wildlife Lovers Routing is Crucial

As explained in my post about the  best island hopping land-based route , choosing the right excursions you’ll be able see about 80% of endemic Galapagos species without the need for a cruise. Yet there are certain iconic species such as the Red Footed Boobie (San Cristobal and Española), the Flightless Cormorant (Isabela and Fernandina) and the Galapagos Albatross (Española) that only reside on certain islands, and can sometimes only be seen a certain time of the year.  Metropolitan Touring  has published an elaborate Galapagos wildlife guide. If you do have a wish list of species you definitely want to see on your Galapagos cruise, make sure to check beforehand if the islands included on your cruise itinerary are home to those.

For enthusiastic birders I recommend a route that includes either Española and/or Genovesa. Genovesa is one of only two islands on the archipelago home to all three Boobie types – Red-footed, Blue-Footed and Nazca.

My advice is to choose a Galapagos cruise itinerary including islands you can only visit on a cruise, such as Genovesa and Fernandina. Afterwards you can the spend a few days in Puerto Ayora and explore some more from here. It’s a great base for excursions on Santa Cruz and a range of nearby islands that can be reached by ferry or on a day trip. While many cruise operators offer Galapagos cruises of up to 14 nights, that would be a little long for my taste. Unless you want to visit every single island on a cruise and are a hardcore seafarer, a 7-night Galapagos cruise is a good number of days at sea.

Type of Vessel - How are your Sea Legs?

There are generally two types of vessels in the Galapagos – yachts (monohull) and catamarans (multihull). With the introduction of the Camila in 2019, the Galapagos now also got its first and only triple hull trimaran. When it comes to sailing, the biggest difference between a catamaran and a conventional yacht is the lack of heeling which makes a catamaran much more stable in rough seas. Cruising catamarans and trimarans do simply not heel over like a monohull when underway and tend to be the better choice for people prone to seasickness.

But to be honest, outside of the summer months typically distinguished by a slightly rougher sea state, you should be fine on any boat, given you are generally not too prone to seasickness.

Booking Directly or using a Tour Operator or Travel Agent?

While I’m usually all for booking directly rather than through agents, there are exceptions to the rule. Galapagos cruises are one of those exceptions and most of the time it’s better to book through a tour operator or travel agent, as they often get favourable STO (Sell to Tour Operator) rates. With the commission on top travel agents usually add, you’ll likely end up paying the same price – but with the benefit of an added safety net and support by your agent in case something goes wrong (cancelled flight, broken boat etc.). 

On another note, some cruise operators merely sell their cruises through tour operators and simply won’t let you book a Galapagos cruise with them directly. This means you’ll have to go through a travel agent to book your cruise in any case.

Overview of Galapagos Cruise Vessels

Below you’ll find a chart with the vast majority of vessels available as of 2021. Most of them are yachts and catamarans for up to 20 people, which in my opinion often provide a more personal service and intimate experience. Yet there are clear advantages of larger boats as well with more space to retreat and more people to meet.

Most of the time there is no clear line between the different classes. Some first-class boat providers will claim they are luxury, some budget boat owners will insist they fall into the mid range category. This list is based on my personal experience, clients’ feedback, date of latest refurbishment as well as the boat’s amenities, the size and comfort of cabins and the overall service. The class of the boat does not impact the guiding experience. You’ll find amazing and knowledgeable naturalist guides across all four segments.

Disclaimer: While the odd boat might have slipped through the net, the above comprehensive list of vessels form the vast majority of boats available for cruises in the Galapagos Islands as of 2021 and are the ones offered by operators I trust and have worked with in the past.

Full list of Galapagos Cruises and Boat Operators

The majority of boats in the budget/tourist class will feature small cabins, often with bunk beds and portholes, some with windows.

• Yolita II and Eden yachts by G Adventures - Great value all-rounders with good package options | 3, 4, 5, and 7-night itineraries
• Cachalote Explorer yacht by Enchanted Expeditions - some of the best routes for birders | 5 and 7-night itineraries
• Nemo I, II and III - Catamaran Sailing on a budget, solo travellers can share cabin | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• M/S Beagle - Sailing yacht great for solo travellers, single cabin without supplement | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• M/S Samba - Off the beaten track sailing - the only boat sailing to remote Isla Marchena, paddle boards and kayaks onboard | 7-night itinerary
• Angelito - Family-owned, lots of experience, solo travellers can share cabin | 3, 4, 7-night itineraries

The majority of the boats in the mid-range segment will feature smaller cabins with windows or portholes. Some cabins have bunk beds. The common and dining areas are comfortable and usually get refurbished every few years.

• Millennium catamaran - Kayaks, triple cabins and solo travellers can share cabin | 4, 5, and 7-night itineraries
• Archipel I and II catamaran by the Andean Travel company - great last minute discounts, solo travellers can share cabin, choice of 8 different routes | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• M/Y Beluga yacht by Enchanted Expeditions - kayaks, triple cabins and solo travellers can share cabin | 5 and 7-night itineraries
• Coral Yachts - can scuba dive while on cruise | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Mary Anne - largest Schooner sailing yacht in the Galapagos, great for solo travellers, single cabin without supplement | 7-night itinerary
• Monserrat - Spacious and modern yacht, solo travellers can share cabin | 3, 4, 7 and 10-night itineraries
• Letty by Ecoventura - Great value for price and the highest standard in the mid-range category, solo travellers can share cabin | 7-night itinerary

First-class

The majority of the boats in the first-class segment will feature spacious outside cabins often with panoramic windows and beautifully designed common areas.

• Sea Star Journey by Latin Trails - Beautiful design, spacious cabins, jacuzzi, triple cabins and solo travellers can share cabin | 4, 5, 9 and 10-night itineraries
• Galapagos Legend by Go Galapagos - great for families, can scuba dive while on cruise, glass bottom boat, best value for price in large ship segment, choice of 8 different routes | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Grand Majestic yacht by Royal Galapagos - the fastest yacht in the Galapagos, most luxurious in this segment | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Solaris- Newest first-class yacht, best for solo travellers (5 single cabins without supplement) | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Passion yacht - Great value for price, solo travellers can share cabin, triple cabins, overall great design | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Isabela II and Santa Cruz II by Metropolitan Touring- Good for families, glass bottom boat, kayaks, jacuzzi | 4, 6 and 10-night itineraries
• Odyssey yacht - classic, contemporary design, jacuzzi, kayaks, triple and single cabin without supplement | 7-night itinerary
• Treasure catamaran - contemporary design, large bright cabins with balconies, kayaks, triple cabins and solo travellers can share cabin | 4 and 6-night itineraries
• Seaman Journey catamaran by Latin Trails- Best value for price in this segment, triple cabins and solo travellers can share cabin | 3, 4, 7 and 10-night itineraries
• Celebrity Xpedition - Kayaks, paddle boards, jacuzzi, triple cabins, good for families | 7-night itinerary

Luxury – Treat yourself

The majority of the newer yachts and catamarans in the luxury segment will feature very spacious cabins with panoramic windows and balconies and elegantly designed common areas.

• Endemic and Elite by Golden Galapagos - newest luxury catamarans, beautiful design, spacious cabins with private balconies, triple cabins, jacuzzi, paddle boards, kayaks | 3, 4, 5 and 7-night itineraries
• Infinity by Royal Galapagos - newest luxury yacht built, beautifully designed, kayaks and jacuzzi | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Camila by Haugan Cruises - the only Trimaran in the Galapagos, spacious sleek cabins with private balconies | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Origin and Theory - Classic luxury twin yachts, Relaix and Chateaux, hammocks on deck, kayaks, triple cabins | 7-night itinerary
• Grace and Evolution by Quasar - History-laden luxury yachts designed in style of the roaring 20s | 7 and 14-night itineraries
• Ocean Spray by Golden Galapagos - Best value for price in the luxury catamaran segment, single cabin without supplement, private balconies | 4, 6 and 10-night itineraries
• Celebrity Flora - Newest luxury Celebrity mega yacht in the Galapagos | 7, 10 and 11-night itinerary
• La Pinta by Metropolitan Touring - good for families, jacuzzi, kayaks, glass bottom boat, triple cabins | 4, 6-night itineraries
• Cormorant Catamaran by Royal Galapagos - large cabins with private balconies, triple cabins | 3, 4 and 7-night itineraries
• Petrel - Great value for price, single cabin without supplement | 3, 4, 5 and 7-night itineraries
• Silver Origin - Newest ultra luxury mega yacht, one of the most sustainable (no anchor, no plastic) and the most expensive, maiden voyage set for May 2021 | 7-night itinerary

Whatever Galapagos cruise you choose to go for, it will be a trip of a lifetime. If you need further help and advice, feel free to contact me directly, I’m here to help!

So thorough! Awesome post… thanks for sharing! Even after living in Ecuador for two years I never made it to the Galapagos! I always heard that by being in Quito and going to the tour offices and booking a very last minute trip there were a lot of deals, but it was still out of my price range for the time. Hopefully I’ll be able to visit in the future… and this is a great guide for that!

The Galapagos Islands have been on my to-do list for so long. Thanks for such an informative post! I knew this trip would be expensive compared to other trips, but this has given a great insight into how much I can actually expect to spend and what I will get for my money. Hopefully, I’ll make it over there in the future.

I’ve always wanted to see this island but didn’t know the first thing about the cruises that go here. Thanks for all of the great tips and info!

Ummi Nadrah

Ohhh this is so exciting! The Galapagos islands are on my bucket list but I’ve always dismissed them as too expensive. Super thrilled to know that it’s possible to do as a solo traveler on a budget! Thank you for this great guide.

This is really helpful! I’m trying to find a reasonably priced cruise for myself and three kids for next March. It’s very overwhelming!

flashpackjournal

Thank you Ana, I hope you’re finding a nice cruiser for your family! 🙂

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Hi, I am Toni – Adventurer and Travel Addict and I’m so happy you’re here!

I’ve been working in travel ever since graduating from uni and I’m really excited to share my travel experience, tips and tricks with flashpackers looking for that extra special journey!

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An Epic Galápagos Cruise on the National Geographic Endeavour II [In-depth Review]

Katie Seemann

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Table of Contents

An epic galápagos cruise, national geographic endeavour ii review, final thoughts.

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A Galápagos cruise has been on the top of my bucket list for years. I knew when I was able to finally make it happen that I wanted to book it with Lindblad/National Geographic Expeditions (those beautiful, glossy catalogs that they have been sending me for years worked, I guess).

In this post, I will take you on a tour of the ship I sailed on, the National Geographic Endeavour II, and tell you a bit about what I did on this trip. This was my first experience on such a small ship, so it was all new to me (I’ve only cruised on traditional large ships before).

If you’ve had your eye on a Galápagos cruise, I hope this post will give you an idea of what you can expect.

There are a couple of different Galápagos cruise itineraries offered by Lindblad/National Geographic. I booked the 10-day/9-night Galápagos cruise on the National Geographic Endeavour II .

I wish I could tell you that I redeemed points at an amazing 6 cents each in value, but I can’t. I booked this trip the old-fashioned way — with cash a credit card.

Unfortunately, the partnership between Lindblad and Hyatt ended on December 31, 2023, so it’s no longer possible to earn 4x points by paying for Lindblad trips with Hyatt credit cards.

Lindblad now has a partnership with World of Hyatt , but I booked this trip before that partnership was announced and wasn’t able to take advantage of any of the benefits (which bummed me out). I paid the initial deposit on my  Chase Sapphire Reserve ® to earn 3x Ultimate Rewards points. However, I was still able to earn a lot of World of Hyatt points in the process because I paid for the majority of the trip after the partnership was announced.

I paid for the balance of the trip using both of my World of Hyatt credit cards — The World of Hyatt Credit Card and the World of Hyatt Business Credit Card . I was even able to use the charges to help me hit the minimum spending requirement for the welcome bonus on the World of Hyatt Business card.

The good news is that Lindblad/National Geographic trips code as Hyatt purchases and therefore earn 4 points per $1 when you use either World of Hyatt credit card . This is separate from the 5 points per dollar you can earn booking through World of Hyatt , and you can earn the credit card points even if you don’t book through World of Hyatt.

Here’s a breakdown of what I spent:

Additionally, I earned a 75,000-point welcome bonus on the World of Hyatt Business card and these charges triggered the 2 $50 Hyatt credits on that card, as well.

So, in total, I was able to earn 129,856 World of Hyatt points and 4,500 Ultimate Rewards points from this trip!

Bottom Line: Lindblad/National Geographic Expeditions offers an incredible collection of bucket-list-worthy cruises and land excursions.

Why Book a Cruise?

There were a lot of reasons I booked a cruise to the Galápagos Islands instead of staying in hotels on land. The first reason is that Galápagos is an area where you’ll want to see lots of different locations, many of which are small, uninhabited islands, and a cruise is the best way to access those.

Also, most of these locations require visitors to be with a naturalist at all times , so these aren’t places you can just visit on your own. Plus, a cruise gives you easy access to all of the water activities you’ll want to try, such as snorkeling and kayaking.

Bottom Line: A small ship cruise is a great way to visit the Galápagos Islands because it gives you the best access to all of the places you’ll want to see and takes care of all of the regulations, like the required naturalists, so you can just enjoy your trip.

Getting to Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are a part of Ecuador, so I flew from Columbus, Ohio (CMH) to Guayaquil, Ecuador (GYE), with a stop in Miami (MIA) as the first leg of this trip.

We stayed overnight at Hotel Oro Verde and had a day to explore Guayaquil. We flew in a day early because we didn’t want to get in late at night (the flight from Miami didn’t land until 10 p.m.) and then have to get on the ship the next day.

We stayed at Hotel Oro Verde for 2 nights before the cruise and 1 night after the cruise, and it was all arranged by Lindblad.

Lindblad/National Geographic required all passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and to provide a negative COVID-19 test result 3 to 5 days before the trip . We also had to take another test upon arrival in Ecuador.

Hot Tip: If you find yourself at Guayaquil José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE), be sure to check out the VIP Aeropuertos Club lounge.

Getting to the National Geographic Endeavour II

The next day, we flew on Avianca from Guayaquil to San Cristóbal Island (SCY) to board the National Geographic Endeavour II. After a short bus ride, we arrived at a small dock and hopped on a zodiac to get to the ship. It was there that I first saw what I discovered was a common sight in the Galápagos Islands — sea lions everywhere !

My Galápagos cruise visited many different islands and points of interest:

• Day 1: San Cristóbal Island
• Day 2: Española Island/Gardner Bay/Punta Suárez
• Day 3: Floreana Island
• Day 4: Santa Cruz Island
• Day 5: Dragon Hill/Guy Fawkes/Daphne Major
• Day 6: San Salvador Island/Bartolomé/Sombrero Chino
• Day 7: Genovesa Island
• Day 8: Baltra Island

Each day, we would usually stop in 2 different locations — 1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon. There would be a variety of included activities available, ranging from hiking and snorkeling to photography tours and glass-bottom boat rides .

I sailed through the Galápagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II . The ship carries 96 passengers in 52 cabins . It has 4 categories of cabins along with 3 categories of suites. Select rooms can accommodate solo travelers or groups of 3.

There are only 52 cabins on 3 deck levels on the National Geographic Endeavour II. I booked a Category 1 cabin — the least expensive option. There are only 2 examples of this cabin level on the ship — rooms 201 (mine) and 202.

The room itself was just a hair smaller than those in other room categories (excluding suites) and was more than sufficient for my husband and me. But there was a problem, and it was a big one, in my opinion. My room was located right above the anchor, and it was incredibly loud when it was raised or lowered.

Unfortunately, this happened most nights in the middle of the night as well as during the day on occasion. It sounded as though someone was in my room hitting a large metal pipe with a shovel — it was crazy loud! I was really surprised that this wasn’t disclosed at the time of booking, and I think it should have been.

My mom’s room was next to ours (a Category 2 solo room), and she was bothered by the noise every night as well.

I understand I booked the least expensive room, but it was by no means cheap, so this isn’t something that I would expect based on how much the room cost.

Bottom Line: There are only 52 cabins, including 4 suites, accommodating up to 96 passengers on the National Geographic Endeavour II. If you book a Category 1 or some Category 2 rooms, prepare to be woken up every night by the very loud anchor.

Category 1: Room 201

My room was small, but it was fine for my husband and me. This wasn’t the kind of trip where you spend a lot of time in your room, so we didn’t need more space.

There was a comfortable king-sized bed with a large window behind it that let in a lot of light. There were small bedside tables and lamps on either side of the bed.

There were plenty of plugs available by the bedside lights and within the headboard of the bed.

Opposite the bed was a small desk and chair. The desk had a drawer with a lock where you could store any valuables. There was also a pitcher that was filled with cold water each day by the housekeeping staff .

Next to the desk was a closet with 4 small drawers and space for hanging clothes. There was a laundry bag in the closet, as well as an extra blanket and 2 robes.

The entryway had hooks for hanging your life jacket and other essentials.

There was a cute do not disturb sign in case you didn’t want housekeeping services.

The bathroom was small but functional — which is all I expect on a cruise.

There was a toilet and sink with a few small shelves by the mirror.

The shower always had plenty of hot water and good pressure, which was a nice treat after adventuring every day.

There was shampoo, conditioner, and body wash available in large containers in the shower.

Unlocked Rooms

The cabins on the ship only locked from the inside.  Any time you left your cabin it would remain unlocked, so you never needed a key to enter. I found it strange the first time it was mentioned but it ended up being great. It was a small and intimate ship so I never had any worry that something would be stolen from my room.

The rooms could be locked from the inside so that you didn’t have to sleep or shower in an unlocked room.

The 3-Person Cabin

There were a few rooms on the ship that could accommodate a third person. My mother-in-law, father-in-law, and sister-in-law shared a room, so I was able to get a photo. It was definitely tight with the third bed, which folded out from the wall, but it was less expensive than having the additional person in a separate room.

Bottom Line: My cabin, 201, was small but functional. It had a comfortable king-sized bed with a large window, a desk, a closet, and a private bathroom.

There was hand sanitizer and filtered water available in the ship’s hallways. High-touch areas, such as railings, were cleaned multiple times a day.

Dining Room

There’s 1 dining room on the National Geographic Endeavour II. We had every meal there except 1 during our expedition.

Overall the food was great , and it exceeded my expectations. I had gone in assuming that since this was an activity-focused expedition, food may be an afterthought. It absolutely wasn’t. I appreciated that most of what was served had an Ecuadorian or South American flair and wasn’t “Americanized.” The one exception was a BBQ-themed dinner with ribs and hamburgers which ended up being my least favorite meal of the entire trip.

Breakfast Buffet

Breakfast was served buffet-style each morning, but coffee, tea, and fresh juice were served at the table. Pastries were available before breakfast in the lounge for early risers.

Each morning, there was a selection of cold items, such as cereal, yogurt, and fruit.

There was a featured fruit of the day in addition to common fruits that were served every day. These featured fruits were usually relatively obscure or tropical fruits that we don’t see often in the U.S., such as tree tomato, soursop, and dragonfruit.

There was also a hot buffet with typical breakfast fare, such as eggs, pancakes, and hash browns, as well as rotating items that included Ecuadorian dishes.

There was also an omelet station. After a day or 2 on the ship, the waitstaff seemed to know everyone’s names and where you were sitting in the dining room, so you could order your omelet and the staff would bring it to your table.

Bottom Line: Breakfast was served buffet-style each morning on the ship. There were also pastries available in the lounge before breakfast.

Lunch and Dinner

Lunch and dinner were served as sit-down meals each day. Each had a choice between 3 entrees — a meat option, a fish option, or a vegetarian option.

There was usually a soup or specialty salad each day in addition to the option of a green salad or Caesar salad.

Each meal concluded with dessert and/or a choice of ice cream. We had the same waiter for each meal and he got so used to the way my husband ordered his ice cream he ended up bringing it without even asking by the end of the trip.

The lounge was an important part of the ship because that’s where we met each evening for the day’s recap. It was bright and cozy, with plenty of seating and lots of windows .

There were also different lectures and seminars held in the lounge throughout the week.

There was a coffee machine that made regular coffee as well as specialty coffees, such as cappuccinos and mochaccinos, that was available at all times. There was also an ice machine and a selection of teas.

Plus, there were snacks available throughout the day — the locally-made plantain chips were my favorite.

There was a different fresh juice and flavored water available daily.

In addition, there was a mini fridge with sodas and local beers.

The bar was open during the evening recaps, and most drinks, except for some high-end liquors, were included.

Top-shelf liquor brands could be ordered for an additional charge.

Appetizers were served each evening during the recap and before dinner. There were different options each night, ranging from Caprese salad bites to mini pasta bowls to sushi.

There was also a specialty cocktail served each evening. The Santa Cruz was my favorite. I’m not a big drinker, so I ordered mine without rum, and it was very tasty.

The ship’s library is on Deck 4, and I found it to be a great place to sit and relax. It has lots of seating and floor-to-ceiling windows, making it easy to take in the stunning vistas around you.

Coffee and tea were available at any time in the library, just as they were in the lounge.

Plus, there was a computer station available for use.

Global Gallery (Gift Shop)

Next to the library is the Global Gallery, the ship’s gift shop. It was open each day after breakfast, after lunch, and before dinner.

It sold a variety of items made by local artists, along with a few toiletry essentials and Lindblad/National Geographic-branded expedition clothing.

There is a gym onboard the National Geographic Endeavour II, but I honestly don’t know how anyone could find the time to use it! It has large windows and fantastic views, but the trip was so packed with activities I can imagine it only got used by die-hard gym rats.

I’ll admit, I never stepped foot inside the gym except to take this photo!

There were 2 treadmills, 2 bikes, and an elliptical machine, along with some accessories, such as balance balls, yoga mats, and free weights.

Each morning, the ship’s wellness expert hosted a stretch class on the deck. I wanted to try it out but the times were just too early for me!

Guests could book massages with the ship’s wellness expert/masseuse in the spa room. I wanted to get a massage, but I didn’t want to miss out on any activities, so I skipped it. My mom got a massage, and she said it was excellent.

Massages are not included in the cost of the cruise .

Observation Deck

The top deck was open for guests to enjoy anytime. There were a few chairs set up, but I didn’t use them much because the shade was minimal.

There were also racks set up if you needed to dry off any clothing.

One evening before dinner there was a wine tasting event on the top deck that took place as the ship was circumnavigating Daphne Major Islet .

There were plenty of activities during my cruise through the Galápagos Islands, and everything was included in the cruise price .

The ship was well-equipped with kayaks, paddleboards, zodiacs, snorkeling equipment, wetsuits, walking sticks, and even a glass-bottom boat .

I snorkeled with sea lions, took hikes along rugged ocean cliffs, kayaked with sea turtles, and got to see animals up close , including blue- and red-footed boobies, Galápagos land iguanas, Galápagos tortoises, and much more.

Each time we went ashore, we went in small groups accompanied by a certified naturalist (this is required by law in many locations) who was able to educate us on the local flora and fauna we were seeing.

There were also photography-themed groups that went ashore with certified National Geographic photo instructors .

During normal times, the ship’s staff can arrange for guests to scuba dive (which I really wanted to do), but due to COVID-19, the cruise line still wasn’t allowing it. I was disappointed, but now, at least I have an excuse to go back!

Diving isn’t included in the price, so when it’s available there is an extra cost .

Bottom Line: All of the activities were included in my Galápagos cruise on the National Geographic Endeavour II, including snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, zodiacs, and glass-bottom boat rides.

Open Bridge

The National Geographic Endeavour II had an open-bridge policy, so you could check it out at any time of day. And they really mean any time — they even gave my mother-in-law a wake-up call in the middle of the night so that she could be on the bridge while the ship crossed the equator.

There’s a nice observation deck at the front of the ship that can be accessed via the bridge.

The Wi-Fi on the ship was bad, plain and simple. However, I wasn’t sure I’d have any Wi-Fi at all, so I was happy with the little I got. It was just enough to send my daughter a quick text or to post a photo to Instagram. It usually only worked for a couple of minutes at a time, so you couldn’t do much more than that.

The nice thing was that the first 7 hours of internet use were free — and I don’t think I could have used that much if I tried!

Crew Workstation

This ship has a crew workstation that served as the central hub for signing up for activities, getting information about the day’s plans, signing up for spa treatments, and much more. This area also had a map that tracked where we cruised each day and a checklist of all of the wildlife we saw.

Staff and Crew

I can’t say enough about the staff and crew of the National Geographic Endeavour II. Everyone I came into contact with was simply fantastic.

From the expert naturalists and photo instructors to the waitstaff and zodiac drivers, the service was top-notch .

Housekeeping

Cabins were serviced 3 times per day ! It seemed like every time I came back to my room it was picked up, and I had fresh towels. In the evenings, we got the next day’s itinerary along with some local chocolates.

Gratuities weren’t included in the cruise fare. An amount of $200 per person for the 7-night cruise was suggested on board. This amount could be adjusted and added to your shipboard account.

COVID-19 Protocols

My trip was from April 28 to May 8, 2022, so there were extra COVID-19 considerations that we had to deal with in order to travel.

Lindblad/National Geographic Expeditions took its COVID-19 protocols very seriously. First, every guest had to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. We also had to take a PCR test 3 to 5 days before traveling. The Ecuadorian government wasn’t requiring this, but the cruise line did.

Then, we had to take another test once we got to the hotel the day before we departed on the cruise. Lindblad/National Geographic set this up, and the cost was included.

Once on the ship, masks were required in public areas and during embarkation and disembarkation on the zodiacs that took us ashore each day.

There was hand sanitizer widely available and there were yellow symptom cards that we had to turn in each day to confirm that no one in the cabin had experienced any COVID-19 symptoms.

Despite all of the effort, there ended up being 4 confirmed cases of COVID-19 during our cruise . The expedition leader was very open about this and disclosed the details to all of the guests. As it turned out, all 4 cases were from guests and staff that had participated in a pre-trip extension. The guests that were in close contact with those infected were tested on board as were all of the crew and staff.

Unfortunately, 2 of the photography experts who were traveling with us were among those infected, which was disappointing. Those infected were taken off of the ship and sent to a hotel.

Lindblad/National Geographic also administered the tests we needed to fly back to the U.S. after the cruise. Thankfully, there was no additional spread after the 4 who tested positive and everyone else got a negative test and was able to fly home as scheduled.

This Galápagos cruise on the National Geographic Endeavour II was indeed a bucket-list trip for me and one that I highly recommend if you enjoy active vacations, incredible scenery, and unique wildlife.

I loved that everything was included — I didn’t have to pay extra for any activities, and this trip was jam-packed with things to do, such as snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and paddleboarding.

I’ll definitely consider booking through Lindblad/National Geographic again — especially since there’s now a partnership with World of Hyatt that allows you to earn or use World of Hyatt points on these expeditions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a galápagos cruise worth it.

To me, it was 100% worth it! I absolutely loved this trip and would do it again in a heartbeat if I could. If you enjoy activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and seeing incredible animals, then you’ll probably love a trip to the Galápagos Islands.

What country owns the Galápagos Islands?

The Galápagos Islands belong to the South American nation of Ecuador. You can fly from mainland Ecuador to the Galápagos Islands in about 90 minutes.

How many days do you need in the Galápagos Islands?

I did a 7-night cruise through the Galápagos Islands and felt that was a good amount of time to see a lot. I would say anything less than 5 days wouldn’t be enough time.

What's included in a Galápagos cruise on the National Geographic Endeavour II?

Almost everything is included when you cruise the Galápagos on the National Geographic Endeavour II, including food, drinks, activities, and transportation. The only things that cost extra on board were top-shelf alcohol, massages, gift shop purchases, and gratuities.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Galapagos Cruises

Why Cruise the Galápagos?

Embark on a Galápagos cruise and experience the evolutionary oddities and breathtaking scenery of an astonishing archipelago famed worldwide for its wildlife-viewing opportunities. A haven hewn from lava and hidden from humanity for centuries – the Galápagos lie some 600 miles (nearly 1,000 km) off the Ecuadorian Pacific coast – this enchanting collection of islands and islets is home to a veritable menagerie of miraculous and marvelous wildlife waiting to meet you. Beneath the spectacular volcanic vistas, delve into an underwater wonderland, a nutrient-rich cocktail of currents conducting an oceanic opera of teeming marine life.

Aboard only the best Galápagos cruise ships available, explore the remote reaches of this otherworldly realm, and discover the pristine, protected visitor sites of the Galápagos National Park with the help of hand-chosen guides, naturalist oracles who will passionately impart their expert knowledge about the fascinating flora and fearless fauna you will encounter. Prepare yourself for one of the wildest of wildlife safaris imaginable on an unforgettable Galapagos Islands cruise, as you follow in Darwin’s footsteps to a world where tortoises are as big as boulders, marine iguanas span surf and shore, and blue-footed boobies perform mesmeric mating dances.

Our hand-picked portfolio of Galápagos cruise ships has been carefully chosen to include remarkable vessels operated by only the most trusted of partners, preeminent pioneers in the region who offer exceptional itineraries, unrivaled knowledge, and utmost levels of service.

Cormorant II

Galaxy Sirius

Origin, Theory & Evolve

Galapagos Horizon

Tribute Yacht

Galapagos Angel

Galapagos Experiences

Luxury Cruises

Family Cruises

Adventure Cruises

Honeymoon Cruises

Charter Cruises

Solo Cruises

Private charters.

For those seeking the ultimate exclusivity traveling as a group or with family, a Galapagos yacht charter provides a private escape to explore the Enchanted Islands, with an entire crew to cater to your every need, and allows for activities to be more tailored to your party’s desires.

Cruise Packages

Our custom Galápagos tours are the ultimate in Galápagos Islands cruise packages, seamlessly combining Galápagos cruises with bespoke land tours featuring private expert-led excursions and curated accommodations. Browse our best-selling Galápagos vacations below and begin an unforgettable journey tailored uniquely to you.

Machu Picchu & Galapagos

13-day tour from $9,050 usd.

Galapagos & Amazon

14-day tour from $8,675 usd.

Galapagos & Andes

10-day tour from $7,725 usd.

Quito & Galapagos Adventure

7-day tour from $5,250 usd, travel guide.

Want to know more about cruising Galápagos? Our destination specialists have compiled the definitive Galápagos Islands travel guide to help you plan your cruise. Find out when and where to go, what to see and do, where to eat and sleep, and more below.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Galapagos?

Difference Between the Eastern and Western Galapagos Islands

Scuba Diving Galapagos: The Ultimate Guide

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How To Get To (And Around) The Galapagos Islands

What our customers are saying.

How Much Does A Galápagos Cruise Cost?

This typically depends on cruise length, comfort level of your boat and choice of cabin category, although seasonal and single supplements may also apply. On average, short cruises of 5 days or less cost from $2,500 pp, and longer cruises of 8 days or longer from $5,000 pp based on double occupancy.

Prices typically exclude the cost of flights to the islands (around $500) and the National Park entrance fee (currently $100, soon to be $200 starting 1 Aug 2024). Most cruises are all-inclusive with the exception of alcoholic beverages and tips. To help reduce the cost, keep apprised of last minute Galapagos Islands cruise deals or consider a private Galapagos cruise charter which often prove more cost effective if traveling in a group.

Do I Need A Visa For The Galápagos Islands?

You do not need a visa for the Galapagos Islands per se, but you may require a visa for entry into Ecuador dependent upon your nationality. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador for stays less than 90 days in any 12-month period, however your passport must be valid for at least six months at the date of entry and have one blank page for your entry stamp. There are, however, several entry requirements for the Galapagos (see below).

Are There Any Galápagos Entry Requirements?

To enter Galapagos, travelers must present the following documents at the airport in Quito or Guayaquil before their flight to the islands:

• Return air tickets between the mainland and Galapagos
• Private travel health insurance
• Transit Control Card, which is available at the airport for a cost of $20 (cash only)

Upon arrival at the airport in Galapagos, travelers must then present their Transit Control Card, and pay the requisite National Park entry fee before they are allowed to enter.

We will happily organize your pre-registration of the Transit Control Card and pre-payment of the National Park entry fee (where possible) to smooth this process.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Galápagos?

We always recommend a minimum of 5 days to adequately experience the Galapagos Islands and strongly advise 8 days to truly appreciate their incredible endemic species and otherworldly landscapes. To comprehensively explore every major island of the archipelago, consider an epic 15 day Galapagos cruise .

What Is The Food Like On A Galapagos Cruise?

The cruises offer a wide selection of international and Ecuadorian food , including a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, chicken, rice and pasta, as well as fish and seafood which, as you might imagine, is abundant and fresh. The most famous local dish is the ceviche, made with freshly-caught lobster, octopus, squid, or shrimp.

Most cruises will serve meals in a relaxed buffet-style. However, high-end vessels may offer more formal dining arrangements. Please let us know beforehand of any specific dietary requirements or allergies for us to inform the chef on board.

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The Top 10 Galapagos Small Ship Cruises

The best way to experience the Galapagos Islands is aboard a small-ship cruise.

With the many cruises for the Galapagos, it can be difficult to choose a vessel for your experience. The larger vessels that accommodate 50 to 100 visitors can seem crowded and lack the personal touch of smaller vessels.

A small-ship cruise keeps the experience intimate and provides a more personal tour of this incredible region.

The following tours are our selection of small ship Galapagos Cruises defined as accommodating 20 people or less. These include luxury-class, first-class and adventure-class ships to suit a diversity of preferences.

The Elite Galapagos Cruise

With its first voyage in 2019, the Elite is one of the newest and most modern luxury vessels for the Galapagos Islands. Imagine exploring the Galapagos with skilled guides to see iconic wildlife and returning to the modern opulence of the Elite.

Specifically designed for the Galapagos, the Elite was crafted for performance, comfort and stability for you to focus on enjoying this remarkable destination.

The Elite offers you:

• Golden Suites
• Cozy exterior and interior bars
• Al fresco dining area
• Super-structure of 38 meters (124 feet) by 14 meters (46 feet) wide
• All suites have private outdoor balconies and panoramic sliding glass doors
• All convertible suites: king size bed or two double beds
• Adjoining accommodations available on both decks
• Suites’ restroom with frosted glass wall for plenty of natural light
• Two panoramic doors to access the catamaran’s main areas
• 180-degree panoramic view from the interior lounge
• Integrated social areas blend indoor and outdoor designs and experiences
• Social areas feature extended outdoor balconies
• The sky deck is generously proportioned, featuring a whirlpool bath and exterior bar
• Partially covered sky deck

The Elite offers spacious and comfortable suites, luxurious interiors, balconies and a jacuzzi. Click the short video above for a quick introduction.

On Elite itineraries, enjoy guided tours of the islands, diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery and some fascinating bays, beaches and marine areas.

Check availability for your dates and send your request to the Elite Cruise using the button below.

The Elite Cruise invites you on an extraordinary exploration of the Galapagos Islands. With modern luxury, the Elite had its ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 8 days

The Endemic Galapagos Cruise

The sister vessel to the Elite above, the Endemic offers the same level of comfort and luxury. Enjoy spacious suites, delicious cuisine and expertly guided Galapagos excursions.

The opulent vessel offers spacious staterooms with private balconies, lavish communal spaces, and delectable culinary delights. Embarking on this magnificent vessel, you will enjoy exciting tours under the guidance of knowledgeable naturalist guides.

Surpassing the majority of Galapagos cruises in terms of stability and comfort, the Endemic showcases masterful craftsmanship, ensuring your enjoyment over your island-hopping cruise.

Each cabin boasts air-conditioning, a private balcony offering breathtaking vistas, an expansive and flawlessly appointed bathroom, and the choice between a king-size bed or two twin-size beds.

From the luxurious Endemic, you will embark on meticulously designed excursions to different Galapagos Islands. Accompanied by your guide, you will discover the iconic giant tortoises, graceful frigate birds, playful sea lions and famous marine iguanas.

You can send the Endemic a request for your travel dates using the button below.

The Endemic Galapagos Cruise is a luxurious modern catamaran designed to offer you a fantastic experience of the Galapagos Islands. ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 6, 8 days

The Petrel Galapagos Cruise

The Petrel Galapagos Cruise is a 16-passenger luxury catamaran to explore the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy incredible up-close experiences with iconic Galapagos wildlife.

And you will explore on island walks, kayaking tours and snorkeling the waters guided by some of the best naturalist guides on the Galapagos.

In addition to incredible wildlife, learn about the fascinating history and see some iconic and beautiful landmarks, beaches and scenery.

The Petrel is a motorized and luxurious catamaran designed for performance, comfort and stability. This means you will enjoy a comfortable cruise as you move from island to island to exploring the archipelago.

Aboard the Petrel, you have a choice of different itineraries available with two alternative itineraries for each of their 6-day and 8-day cruises. The also offer a cruise of 4-days and 5-days for those who have less time available.

To give an example of what to expect, here is a summary of the 4-day cruise aboard the Petrel:

You will begin the cruise by exploring San Cristobal Island. Enjoy a visit to the giant tortoise breeding center for an introduction to these iconic animals.

The next day will be spent on Espanola Island for the famous Gardner Bay for some amazing experiences of sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans. You will then head to Floreana. Here, you will explore the famous Devil’s Crown, Cormorant Point and the Post Office Bay. Enjoy some fantastic animal sightings, such as sharks, rays and hundreds of tropical fish as you snorkel wildlife-rich areas. Visit the saltwater lagoon to see flamingos then learn about the human history of Post Office Bay.

After Floreana, you will visit Santa Cruz Island and the Charles Darwin Research Center before returning home with a transfer to the airport.

Check availability for your travel dates, view more itinerary options and send the Petrel Cruise a request using the button below.

The Petrel Luxury Cruise

The luxurious Petrel Galapagos Cruise offers you an extraordinary journey of the Galapagos Islands. Over 3, 4, 5 or 7-night ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, all guided excursions, captain’s welcome and farewell cocktail, transfers from & to Galapagos airport. | 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 days

The Ocean Spray

The Ocean Spray is another luxury-class catamaran and is the sister vessel of the Petrel above. And aboard the vessel, you will explore the Galapagos Islands in a high levels of comfort.

The cruise is designed to maximize comfort and performance as you travel from island to island. Enjoy guided tours around the islands to find incredible wildlife. In addition to wildlife walks, you can enjoy snorkeling and kayaking tours to explore different reefs and bays.

The Ocean Spray offers spacious and comfortable accommodation, a sundeck and a jacuzzi. You will then enjoy delicious cuisine in the vessel’s elegantly designed dining room. The private balcony of your accommodation then provides a way to maintain connection to this incredible environment.

Aboard the Ocean Spray, you have a choice of 4-day, 5-day, 6-day and 8-day cruises for in=depth exploration of the Galapagos.

To provide a summary of the islands and wildlife you will enjoy, here is a summary of the Ocean Spray 8-day cruise ‘B’ itinerary.

The Ocean Spray Cruise B itinerary begins on San Cristobal Island to enjoy the sea lions and the famous Leon Dormido Galapagos land-form. You will also enjoy beautiful bays, beaches and some fantastic wildlife sightings, including sharks, rays and tropical fish.

You will then visit Floreana Island to see the wildlife-rich Devil’s Crown where you can snorkel to spot a diversity of colorful fish.

After this, enjoy a beautiful bay on Santa Cruz Island to see diverse marine life before visiting Pinnacle Rock, which is another iconic landmark in the Galapagos.

The next day, explore the beautiful coral beach at Darwin Bay and the Prince Phillip’s Steps, which lead you through Galapagos birdlife up a steep path.

The next day will be spent exploring the island of Genovesa, including Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove and Puerto Egas. Around Genovesa, enjoy hearing stories about pirates, view the beautiful black-sand beach, and see some incredible wildlife.

On the last two days, you will explore North Seymour Island, the highlands of Santa Cruz and Mosquera Island. While here, you can spot iconic giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, orcas and other Galapagos wildlife.

The Ocean Spray Cruise

Aboard the Ocean Spray Cruise, you will embark on a memorable journey through the mesmerizing Galapagos Islands. The 16-passenger luxury ...

The Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise

Although not as opulent as some of the above luxury Galapagos cruises , the Eco Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers a comfortable experience aboard a first-class vessel. Enjoy spacious and comfortable cabins and well-equipped bathrooms. The vessel offers comfortable accommodation, social areas, the bar, sundeck and balconies.

In addition to enjoying the Eco Galaxy vessel itself, head out from the main vessel on guided island tours. See some incredible wildlife and beautiful scenery as you cruise from island to island.

Aboard the Eco Galaxy Cruise, you have a choice of the 4-day, 5-day, 6-day and 8-day itineraries.

As an example, the 6-day cruise ‘B’ itinerary begins on Santa Cruz Island and a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Center to learn about the islands and for an introduction of what to expect on your cruise.

The itinerary then includes Isabela Island, Fernandina, Santiago and Rabida Island. Enjoy some incredible wildlife and beautiful scenery.

Currently, TourTheTropics.com cannot help you book this experience. However, you can visit the tour operator's website for more information.

The Alya Galapagos Cruise

The Alya Galapagos Cruise offers a luxury catamaran to enjoy a cruise of the Galapagos Islands. As one of the newest vessels for the islands, the Alya offers comfort, personalized service, spacious suites and elegantly styled living areas.

In addition to enjoying the comfortable suites and social areas, you will also enjoy delicious cuisine in the Alya’s dining room. The dining room is surrounded by windows to keep you connected to this incredible environment. You can then enjoy a variety of drinks in the bar.

The Galaxy Galapagos Cruise

The Galaxy Galapagos Cruise offers a comfortable cruise of the Galapagos Islands. The vessel has Smart Voyager Certification and offers spacious cabins, private bathrooms and comfortable social areas. You will then enjoy a delicious selection of foods in the dining room while enjoying fantastic views. The bar then divides the social areas from the restaurant.

On your Galaxy Galapagos Cruise, enjoy guided island exploration and different activities to appreciate this unique environment. Visit some of the iconic landmarks on the Galapagos and enjoy beautiful scenery and many different animals.

You can choose a variety of itineraries aboard the Galaxy Cruise, including 4-day, 5-day, 6-day and 8-day cruises.

To provide an example of where you will visit, the Galaxy Galapagos Cruise 6-day ‘C’ itinerary includes a visit to Santa Cruz, Rabida, Sombrero Island, Seymour, Mosquera, Santiago, Bartolome, Genovesa and San Cristobal. You will visit some of the favorite destinations on each of these islands to enjoy the best the Galapagos has to offer.

The Galaxy Yacht Cruise

The nemo iii galapagos cruise.

The Nemo III offers a motor-sail catamaran to enjoy guided tours of the Galapagos Islands. In addition to hopping from island to island, enjoy guided tours of the islands themselves to find iconic Galapagos wildlife.

The Nemo III vessel itself offers comfortable accommodation, private bathrooms, jacuzzi and a sundeck. In the dining room, you will then enjoy three meals each day between your island excursions. The vessel is also air-conditioned to keep you comfortable on cruise.

To give you an idea of what to expect, the 8-day Nemo III Galapagos Cruise itinerary includes a visit to:

• Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz
• The Prince Phillips Steps and Darwin Bay on Genovesa
• Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island
• Dragon Hill and the highlands on Santa Cruz
• The Giant Tortoise Breeding Center
• Moreno Point and Urbina Bay on Isabela
• Espinoza Point on Fernandina
• Taguz Cove on Isabela
• Egas Port and Buccaneer Cove on Santiago
• Daphne Island

While exploring these favorite areas of the Galapagos Islands, your guide will be helping you find some incredible wildlife. Enjoy the iconic marine iguanas, sea lions, blue footed boobies, pelicans, colorful fish and giant tortoises.

The Nemo III Cruise

The nemo ii galapagos cruise.

The Nemo II is a motor-sail catamaran offering an island-hopping cruise of the Galapagos Islands. Enjoy a cruise of the northern or southern islands over either 4, 5 or 8-days.

The Nemo II offers double cabins with a personal bathroom. In the dining room, you will then enjoy 3 meals each day prepared freshly by talented chefs. The rooms on the Nemo II are air-conditioned to keep you comfortable on your cruise.

You will then enjoy guided tours around the islands themselves to find fantastic wildlife, beautiful bays and enjoy stunning scenery.

On your Nemo II Cruise, you can choose between two itineraries that visit either the northern or the southern islands.

To provide an example, here’s a summary of the 8-day northern itinerary aboard the Nemo II Cruise:

You will begin your cruise on Baltra Island where you will first cruise to Seymour Island. Here, you will find a diversity of Galapagos birds, including the royal frigates.

The next day, you will visit the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, which offers a fascinating landscape and viewing the famous giant tortoises. You will also visit the Charles Darwin Research Center in the afternoon to learn a little more about the Galapagos and the wildlife.

The evening will be spent on cruise to Isabela Island ready for the following morning.

The next day, you will enjoy some beautiful scenery with a visit to Punta Moreno with its fascinating volcanic landscape. Enjoy spotting different birds, marine iguanas and see the coral reef.

After this, you will spend the following day at Tagus Cove to learn the history of pirates, buccaneers, and whalers visiting the islands. The area is also inhabited by Galapagos penguins, pelicans and flightless cormorants.

The afternoon will be spent at Punta Espinoza on Fernandina. The area is rich in wildlife, such as sea lions, flightless cormorant and one of the largest populations of iguanas on the islands.

On the itinerary, you will also enjoy sea turtles at the beautiful Espumilla beach and the dark red sand of Rabida Island. Here, you can also watch and snorkel with playful sea lions.

The final day will be spent around Daphne Island to enjoy different birds and the scenery before a delicious breakfast and your return journey home.

The Nemo II Cruise

The galapagos habit hotel package tours.

You can also enjoy island hopping packages from the Galapagos Habitat Hotel (previously called the Red Mangrove). Enjoy luxury accommodation in your Galapagos Habitat suite then board a cruise vessel for exploring the nearby islands. Enjoy a choice of itinerary options or customize your experience to your interests.

The Galapagos Habitat hotel offers tailor made itineraries to explore the islands with a combination of the hotel and island-hopping by cruise vessel. You will enjoy guided hiking tours on different islands to find Galapagos animals.

The Galapagos Habitat Hotel itself is positioned on the island of Santa Cruz next to the Charles Darwin Research Center, which is one of the island’s top attractions. The hotel is home to one of the highest rated restaurant on the islands and is also nearby many more, as well as art galleries, souvenir shops, cafes and other attractions. Even at the Galapagos Habitat hotel itself you can find marine iguanas visiting the deck and sea lions lounging on deckchairs.

The Red Mangrove Hotel

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The Top 10 Galapagos Cruises for all Different Groups & Budgets

The Galapagos Islands have so much to offer: wildlife like nowhere else in the world; ideal weather year-round; and the best small-ship, expedition style cruises. Together, let’s navigate the different boat options, itineraries, and seasonal differences to ultimately create the Galapagos Islands trip of your dreams!

Start Planning Today

The Trip Specialists at Knowmad will help you navigate the different boat options, itineraries, and seasonal differences, coordinating Galapagos and mainland Ecuador travel for a holistic, seamless and safe experience, all at a guaranteed best value. If you’re interested in crafting a custom trip to the Galapagos Islands, reach out today at 612-315-2894 or fill out the short form above! 

Different Galapagos cruise boat types

The two main boat types for Galapagos cruises are monohull vessels and catamarans; however, there are also a few sailboat options. There is not one boat that is the best, as there are advantages and disadvantages to each, so let’s take a look at them.

Different Galapagos cruise CLASSES

There are three different classes of boat that Knowmad Adventures works with, and that we would suggest cruising on: luxury class, first class, and tourist superior. We do not suggest boats below the tourist superior class as this is where you will really see a drop in quality of the guides on board, both in terms of knowledge and language ability, as well as a drop in quality of balanced and well-planned itineraries, and also of food and cabins. Take a look at the differences below between the three classes we do recommend!

LUXURY CLASS Luxury cruises are the nicest in the Galapagos. They have the most spacious and comfortable cabins generally with king size beds, gourmet food, jacuzzis, and some even feature private balconies and included alcohol choices. Most also have kayaks on board and include wetsuits in the rate. Like any luxury experience, they do come with a price tag. Luxury cruises average $800 to $1,000 per person per day, with cruises ranging from 4 to 8 days and up.

FIRST CLASS First class cruises are just one step down from luxury, in terms of price and how nice your cabin and boat are. These are some of Knowmad’s favorite boats because you can find a lot of variety within this class. There are many first class boats offering a luxury level experience but on a first class vessel and with a first class price tag. However, there are also many that really should be calling themselves a tourist superior option instead, so it’s important to work with a Trip Specialist who has inspected cruises and knows the best first class boats out there.

Overall, if working with a good first class boat, the biggest differences you will find between first and luxury class is the variety and level of food, spaciousness and luxury of the cabins, and the amenities on board. For example, first class boats do not include wetsuits in the rate, but instead provide them for rent at an extra charge on board. First class cruises average $600 to $700 per person per day, with cruises ranging from 4 to 8 days and up.

TOURIST SUPERIOR CLASS If working with a tighter budget, there are several fantastic tourist superior options out there. The cabins are generally quite small, but you spend most your time outside of the cabin on the different sun decks or on the islands exploring in the Galapagos anyways. The food will be good, but not on the same level as luxury or first class boats. However, the Galapagos is about the incredible wildlife and the beautiful outdoors, and the most important thing is being on a reliable boat with a great guide and itinerary. Knowmad knows the tourist superior options out there that achieve this while providing an incredible experience for your dollar. Tourist Superior options range in price from $400 to $600 per person per day.

Different Galapagos cruise group sizes

You can charter a Galapagos boat with just you and your family or group, cruise on a catamaran with 16 passengers, as well as join a larger cruise with almost 100 passengers, and everything in between. You are guaranteed a great Galapagos cruise experience with any of the ships we work with, but of course there are advantages and disadvantages to each. Big boats generally mean more amenities, and even though you are with a larger group on board, you are still doing your day excursions with a small group. As these larger ships have multiple guides, they have the capability of splitting travelers into groups based on things like how active they are, their age, and more. Smaller boats are of course more intimate and you have more opportunities to really get to know the other passengers and your crew. There is less time spent getting everyone on board on the zodiacs to head out on excursions as well.

Galapagos cruise durations

From 4 days to 15 days, there are many different Galapagos cruise durations to choose from. Let’s take a look!

3 NIGHT / 4 DAY GALAPAGOS CRUISE We personally feel that this duration is just really too short. Your plane ticket out to the Galapagos Islands will average around $550, so it is really best to take advantage of it once you are there and opt for a cruise with a longer duration than this. However, this duration is fantastic when pairing with a land-based Galapagos experience, like Knowmad’s Land Based Active Adventure or Galapagos Safari Camp. Three nights on a cruise plus three to four nights on land can be a spectacular and varied way to see the Galapagos.

4 NIGHT / 5 DAY GALAPAGOS CRUISE Five days is really the best minimum duration. If you are trying to see the Galapagos in a short time span, wanting to save time for mainland Ecuador or a combo trip with Machu Picchu, but still want to get the most out of your time there, five day cruises are great options.

5 NIGHT / 6 DAY GALAPAGOS CRUISE In our opinion, this is really a fantastic cruise duration. They are less expensive than 8-day cruises by quite a bit, but give you nearly a full week on board, and allow you to really see and experience the islands. Many cruises do not offer this duration, so you’ll want to plan well in advance.

7 NIGHT / 8 DAY GALAPAGOS CRUISE For many, the main draw back of 8-day cruises is the price tag. If the price is manageable for you, then you are in for a treat and guaranteed an incredible week full of new discoveries each day. Eight days is considered the tRaditional, full-length Galapagos program where you can hit all the highlight species.

Now that you know what to consider when choosing your boat and cruise duration, let’s look at our top 10 Galapagos cruise guide to see which is the best fit for you!

Top 10 Galapagos Cruises by Category

Small galapagos luxury cruises (20 passengers or less).

Ocean Spray, CAMILA, & Petrel are luxury Catamarans with unparalleled cabin sizes and itinerary choices. Their elegant design and modern features include a large sun deck, jacuzzi, and spacious cabins with private balconies. Camila, their newest and most luxurious boat, is the only ‘trimaran’ in the Galapagos. They have 4, 5, 6, and 8 day cruise options, meaning they have an itinerary to suit nearly every wishlist. They also have very rare single cabins with no single supplement which can be a great option for singles or groups with odd numbers of travelers. The single cabins book up far in advance though, so you’ll want to book early.

Boat Class: Luxury Class

Cabin Types:

Ocean Spray: 8 double cabins and 1 single cabin

Camila: 8 double cabins

Petrel: 2 suites, 6 double staterooms and 1 single cabin

Size: 16 passengers on each boat

Durations: 4-day, 5-day, 6-day, 8-day, and 15-day cruises

Knowmad Tip: These boats are truly incredible, but with them comes a higher price tag. Ask Knowmad about Ocean Spray, Camila, and Petrel specials and deals, as they occasionally offer them. Let your dates and preferred itinerary make the difficult decision between these three boats. All three are so similar and you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience on any of them!

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING OCEAN SPRAY, CAMILA, OR PETREL

ORIGIN & Theory are two of the newest and most luxurious boats in the Galapagos. The cabins are smaller than Ocean Spray, Camila, and Petrel without private balconies, but you have unparalleled amenities on board like included alcohol, a gym, stand-up paddle-boards, and even a glass bottom boat for those who want to see the underwater life without snorkeling. The biggest advantage of Origin & Theory are that they have 2 naturalist guides on board for just 20 passengers, meaning they provide a 10:1 guest to guide ratio, the best in the Galapagos (most boats have a 16:1 ratio).

Cabin Types: 10 deluxe staterooms. All can be set up either with two twin beds or one king size bed. Two sets of cabins have connecting doors, making them great options for families, and there are also two cabins with the ability to accommodate triples.

Size: 20 passengers

Durations: 8-day cruises (they do have the ability to allow you to disembark one day early, making it a 7-day cruise, but this only provides a 10% discount on limited departures, and cannot be combined with their better child and teen discounts).

Knowmad Tip: A great option for families as they are one of the few boats to offer not only child discounts (25%) but teen discounts (15%) and college age discounts (10%) as well. They also have set family departures where your kids are more likely to be on board with other kids and teens.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING ORIGIN

NATURAL PARADISE has fantastic itineraries and several different cabin types accommodating many group dynamics. They also have four cabins on board with private balconies. Like its competitors, you also find kayaks on board, a jacuzzi, and wonderful naturalist guides.

Cabin Types: 4 standard cabins, 2 junior suites with private balconies, and 3 master suites (2 with balconies and 1 with a spacious sitting area).

Size: 16 passengers

Durations: 4-day, 5-day, and 8-day itineraries

Knowmad Tip: Natural Paradise often has incredible discounts, sometimes $1,000 off or more. Ask your Trip Specialist if there is a discount, and don’t overlook this luxury boat if you’re wanting to stay in a first class budget range, as the discounts sometimes make it cheaper than some first class options.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING NATURAL PARADISE

Small Galapagos FIRST CLASS CRUISES (20 passengers or less)

Anahi, named after the owner’s daughter, is technically a first class boat rather than luxury class, but a very nice one. Knowmad considers the overall experience on Anahi to fall more somewhere in between the two classes, so it is a great option for those looking for a nice boat, with a lesser price tag. Their crew, guides, and itineraries are fantastic.

Boat Class: First Class

Cabin Types: 6 standard twin (2 can be transformed into a queen bed) and 2 suite cabins with a king-sized bed & a sofa bed (can be used as a triple).

Durations: 4-day, 5-day, and 8-day

Knowmad Tip: Anahi is one of the few first class catamaran options, so a great choice if trying to cruise on a cat with a smaller budget than your luxury options. Like many luxury boats, they also have kayaks and a jacuzzi on board.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING ANAHI

LETTY is operated by the same company as Origin & Theory, and shares some of the same pros but at a first class price, like the 10:1 guide to passenger ratio, stand-up paddle boards on board, and family-friendly departures and discounts.

Cabin Types: Four lower (iguana) deck cabins with port holes and two twin lower beds (two also include one upper bunk bed to be used as a triple); two middle (booby) deck cabins with a double bed and picture windows; and four upper (dolphin) deck cabins with two twin beds or one double bed and picture windows.

Durations: 8-day cruises

Knowmad Tip: Like Origin & Theory, this boat is great for families as they have set ‘family departures’ where the little ones will have plenty of other kids on board to play with. They offer the same child and teen discounts as Origin & Theory.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING LETTY

ODYSSEY is an excellent first-class monohull. Like Anahi, we find the guide and itinerary quality on par with luxury class boats. The Oddysey has two kayaks and a jacuzzi on board, as well as very nice and spacious common areas and sun deck.

Cabin Types: One single cabin on the lower deck, four standard cabins on the main deck, two standard cabins on the upper deck, as well as two suites on the upper deck that can also be used as triples. All cabins on the main and upper deck have large picture windows.

Durations: 5-day and 6-day cruises

Knowmad Tip: Odyssey is one of the few first class boats that has a 6-day itinerary: a great option if looking to save some time and budget for mainland Ecuador or Machu Picchu, while still getting a good amount of exploration in the Galapagos.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING ODYSSEY

Medium & Large Galapagos Monohull Cruise Boats

LA PINTA is a wonderful mid-size ship, combining the best of the intimacy of the smaller ships with the amenities of the larger ships. You’ll enjoy gourmet food, kayaks, a glass bottom boat, and a jacuzzi on board. The cabins have some of the best views with floor to ceiling windows.

Cabin Types: Cabin layout is very straightforward with just 20 double Luxury cabins and 4 Luxury Plus cabins for triples. There are also four interconnecting cabins.

Size: 48-passengers

Durations: 5-day and 7-day cruises

Knowmad Tip: Due to its owners long-standing history in the National Park, La Pinta has some of the best itineraries around in the Galapagos, as well as spectacular guides.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING LA PINTA

THE LEGEND is a First Class Large Ship with a variety of choices for cabin size and itineraries. It’s a modern ship (refitted in 2021) and the higher category cabins could be considered “luxury class” rather than first class with very spacious rooms and balconies. There are several social areas, two dining areas (one outside), library, bar, swimming pool (the only one on the island), 2 jacuzzis, spa and gym, kids corner, and a sun deck for lounging or reading. There is a doctor on board the ship which is a nice amenity compared with the smaller ships. This is one of the largest ships in the Galapagos, at 100 passengers, which makes it great for larger groups or families. They have specific departures that are marketed as “family departures” and you can request triple or quadruple rooms or connected cabins. Upon arrival onto the ship, you’ll be put into a group based on room category and other travel style preferences (young kids, older passengers). There are up to 7 guides so the max group size you’ll have will be 14 people. For travelers who don’t enjoy snorkeling, they have a glass bottom boat and kayaking. Despite the large number of passengers, they rotate which group gets to go first each excursion and it didn’t feel like anyone was missing out by having to go last.

Boat Class: First Class with the higher category cabins could be considered Luxury

Cabin Types: Standard Interior, Standard Plus, Jr Suite, Jr Suite Plus, Balcony Suite, Balcony Suite Plus, Legend Balcony Suite

Size: 100 passengers

Durations: 4-day, 5-day, 6-day, 8-day, and 15-day cruises.

Knowmad Tip: There are two balcony suites (cabin 40 and 41) that have front windows as well as side windows so you get a great view from your cabin. Travelers can go out on the deck in front of your room so you won’t want to keep your shades open all the time.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING THE LEGEND

Tourist Superior CLASS CRUISES

BELUGA is our favorite budget-friendly option. Technically considered a ‘superior first class’ boat, it’s a great option to save some money, but still be on a vessel with great crew and guides and wonderful itineraries. The boat is nice, but no frills.

Boat Class: Superior First Class

Cabin Types: All cabins on board are the same price, but with different bed layouts (2 beds or 1) and different style windows. There is one triple cabin on board with 2 lower beds and one bunk style bed.

Durations: 4-day, 5-day, 6-day, and 8-day itineraries

Knowmad Tip: If available, pick cabin 6, 7 or 8 as they have the large picture windows instead of the port holes.

GALAVEN is another great economical option. This boat has 2 naturalist guides for its 20 passengers, giving it a 10:1 ratio, which is a huge plus, and a rare ratio to see on a Tourist Superior option. They also offer free airport assistance at the Quito and Guayaquil airport.

Boat Class: Tourist Superior

Cabin Types: 4 double cabins with twin beds and 3 double cabins with 1 double bed & 1 bunk bed on the lower level; 2 double cabins on the main deck; and 2 double cabins with twin beds on the upper deck.

Duration: 4-day, 5-day, and 8-day

Knowmad Tip: Galaven has one cabin with a double bed on the bottom and a bunk on top, making it a nice option for a family with one child. If looking for a cabin with one bed, try and get one on the main deck as they are bigger than the cabins on the other decks.

CONTACT A SPECIALIST ABOUT BOOKING GALAVEN

Have you decided yet which cruise is perfect for you? Or looking for personalized advice on the options? Give us a call today at 1-877-616-8747 or email [email protected] to get the ball rolling on your dream Galapagos vacation. We can check itineraries, dates, and availability for your favorite boats seen here, or even countless others. The Galapagos Islands is truly a magnificent and special place, and cruises are Knowmad’s favorite way to see a variety of islands and wildlife. There is nowhere else in the world like the Galapagos, considered a ‘melting pot’ of wildlife, and it makes the perfect destination for your next family vacation, romantic get-away, or just an adventurous trip amongst friends!

¡Saludos! Renee

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• October 26th – Keeping up with the Jones’
• October 17th - Chile
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• 2 a.m. October 11th (night before departure)

Great Trip Ideas

• Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
• Peru & Machu Picchu
• Chile, Easter Island & Patagonia
• Argentina & Patagonia

Information On South America

• Overview & Travel Options
• Photos & Traveler Reviews
• Frequently Asked Questions

In The Press

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Featured journey.

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16 of the best Galapagos cruises

Ecuador’s galapagos islands are still best explored on a cruise, whether that’s aboard a modern high-tech yacht or an old-fashioned sail ship.

W ith the rapid rise of land-based tours, there are more options than ever for exploring the Galapagos Islands , but no serious person would deny that cruising is still the best way to go. The routes once sailed by buccaneers, adventurers and eventually scientists are now patrolled by dozens of small cruise ships, each with its own character, itinerary and ethos, but all drawn here by the islands’ elemental magnetism.

From wallet-friendly cruise lines to almost unbelievable opulence aboard luxury yachts, the choices of how best to traverse the Galapagos can feel overwhelming. However you absorb it, there’s no mistaking the fact that this is one of the world’s most special and singular destinations – make sure you see it at its best with one of the best Galapagos cruises.

Main photo: Silver Origin approaching Kicker Rock at sunset

1. Metropolitan Touring

With a fleet of three ships, Metropolitan Touring offers variety to match its hard-won experience in the Galapagos. In operation since the early 1950s, the company has adapted its tourism product over the decades to get the most out of the islands. The ships — the much-loved La Pinta, Santa Cruz II and Isabella II — broadly provide the same service, with expert guides leading landings and conducting lectures on board. While it’s possible to do longer cruises, one of the most popular options is to split time between cruising and spending a few nights in their excellent Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, just outside Puerto Ayora.

Best suited to 6+ Family-friendly Y Price ££

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2. Ecoventura

If you want to sail to this unique destination in style, then Ecoventura’s ships are a cut above their nominal rivals. Offering sweeping tours of the east or west islands, ships Origen and Theory marry excellent cuisine and comfort with enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides. The evening cocktails are outstanding and the generous cabins are as comfortable as any you’ll find in the region. Nonetheless, if a superpod of dolphins turns up, don’t be surprised if you’re summoned out of bed to see them.

Best suited to 6+ Family friendly Y Price £££

www.ecoventura.com

3. Hurtigruten Expeditions

Originally known for its scenic voyages up and down the Norwegian coast, Hurtigruten has branched out into expedition cruising, including to this corner of South America. The ship it’s using for its Galapagos tours is the refurbished Santa Cruz II, in partnership with Metropolitan Touring. With 90 passengers, this is one of the bigger vessels sailing in the islands, close to the maximum capacity of 100 passengers allowed by local law. A science centre has been added, as well as Hurtigruten livery. Each seven-night expedition is preceded by two nights in Quito, including a trip to the smouldering Cotopaxi volcano.

Best suited to 12+ Family friendly Y Price ££

www.hurtigruten.com

4. Silversea

Silversea’s dedicated Galapagos ship Silver Origin may be one of the largest legally allowed to sail in these protected waters, but it aims to show that quantity need not mean quality is sacrificed. The ship, which was built specifically to sail around this archipelago, takes in all the major sites, with options for seven or 10-day cruises covering everything from the oldest island, Española, to the youngest, Fernandina. On board, there’s a choice of restaurants, a small spa and a private balcony for every cabin.

Best suited to 12+ Family friendly Older children only Price £££

5. G Adventures

G Adventures seeks to be a bit different with its G For Good project. In the Galapagos that means a chance to visit the locals in a small community on Floreana, some descended from eccentric German settlers who tried to set up a utopian society on the island in the 1930s. The ships vary depending on the length of time you’re looking to spend on the islands, but the Eden and Reina Silvia Voyager, each carrying 16 passengers, are two of their most frequently used.

Best suited to 16+ Family friendly N Price ££

6. Audley Travel

If you prefer the idea of shorter cruises combined with other wildlife experiences, Audley offers tailor-made tours of the islands on a number of expedition ships, which can be combined with wider exploration of Ecuador. One idea is to spend four days on the Yolita II. The ship has a capacity of just 16, meaning you’ll be exploring in small groups. Once you’ve toured these extraordinary islands, you could then move on to the Amazon to track primates and river otters, or go bird-spotting in the cloud forest.

Best suited to 12+ Family friendly N Price £££

www.audleytravel.com/the-galapagos-islands/tours

7. Avalon Waterways

By South American standards, Ecuador and Peru are pretty amicable neighbours. They’re also in possession of two of the continent’s greatest assets: the Galapagos and breathtaking Machu Picchu. Avalon’s ambitious 20-day programme covers both in style, as well as a voyage on the Peruvian Amazon and the mind-bending Nazca Lines, a series of vast pictograms created around 1,500 years ago with the apparent goal of impressing anyone with a god’s-eye view of the land. Out in the islands, accommodation is on board the smart, 16-passenger Treasure of Galapagos, which hits up all the classic landings.

8. Galapatours

With a vast network of cruise ships and almost every imaginable option for a Galapagos vacation, Galapatours works with dozens of locally owned ships in the region. One of the most remarkable is The Master, for a trip to some of the world’s greatest dive sites at far-flung Wolf and Darwin islands. These distant islets are uninhabited and it’s not possible to make landfall but there’s no shortage of compensation in the water. It’s here that underwater photographers get those famous shots of hundreds of hammerhead sharks swimming in eerie, synchronised circles, waiting for their next meal.

Best suited to 16+ Family-friendly N Price ££

www.galapatours.com

9. Royal Galapagos

With a maximum of 16 passengers, Cormorant II is a luxury catamaran that offers highly personalised levels of service as you sail classic four-, five- or-eight-day cruises around the islands. It’s just one of six ships Royal Galapagos runs in the archipelago. The longer itineraries are impressively comprehensive, especially the eight-day “B” itinerary, which covers a lot of ocean, to make sure you see the wilder parts of Isabela and Fernandina Islands but get all the way out to Española at the opposite end of the archipelago, too.

www.royalgalapagos.com

10. Journey Latin America

Journey Latin America has several itineraries that include time around the islands, many of them aboard the motorised catamaran Treasure of Galapagos. On one meandering itinerary, as well as an eight-day islands cruise, you’ll have the same amount of time touring some of the Ecuadorian highlands, including visits to Quito and the mighty Cotopaxi, as well as the Las Cajas National Park near Cuenca. All that before laying eyes on blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises.

Best suited to 6+ Family friendly Y Price ££

www.journeylatinamerica.co.uk/destinations/galapagos-islands/holidays/

11. Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent may keep its prices high, but the ships are small, guaranteeing generous landings and maximum flexibility when it comes to wildlife encounters. Most itineraries include a trip to the lesser-visited Genovesa Island in the north of the archipelago. As well as red-footed boobies, you won’t fail to notice the bold, brash frigate birds, piratical creatures that plunder the catch of other birds with the ruthlessness of the buccaneers who first settled these islands.

Best suited to 12+ Family friendly Y Price £££

www.abercrombiekent.com/tours/luxury-tailor-made-travel/2022/galapagos-islands-cruise-ecuador#itinerary

12. AdventureSmith

To varying degrees, everyone comes to the Galapagos looking to follow in the pioneering wake of Charles Darwin. It’s perhaps easier to feel that sense of historic exploration aboard the Mary Anne, a three-mast beauty as handsome as any vessel in the region. Travelling under sail and motor, it covers the entire archipelago on eight-day itineraries. Holding just 16 passengers, it’s popular with groups and anyone who wants to feel the power of the ocean during their visit to this singular destination.

www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/cruises/galapagos/mary-anne/

13. National Geographic

In some ways, the Galapagos Islands are a perfect National Geographic destination: rich history of naturalist pioneers, flabbergasting wildlife, a delicate and fascinating ecosystem. Cruises on the 96-passenger Endeavour II or its predecessor, Endeavour, have been operating here for years and as you might expect, often place a big focus on photography. This is easier in the Galapagos than most destinations — having evolved without people, the animals here are curious to the point of naivety. There’ll be no excuse for coming away with bad shots, especially having learned from some of the experts on board.

www.expeditions.com/about/fleet/national-geographic-endeavour-ii/

If you’d like to experience the Galapagos like royalty, the Grace will catch your eye. Once used by Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco for part of their lavish honeymoon, today it’s available for anyone with fine tastes and deep pockets. The owner has done little to update the ship’s satisfyingly dated look, giving it a different feel to the increasingly homogenised product offered by its nominal rivals — few others offer a wooden decking and classic helm. For a slightly different feel, sister ship The Evolution is a retro beauty, too. Choose from eight- or 15-day itineraries.

Best suited to 16+ Family friendly N Price £££

www.quasarex.com/galapagos/

15. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity have taken a Russian doll approach to their Galapagos fleet. Is the 100-berth Celebrity Flora too big for you? OK, how about the 48-berth Celebrity Xpedition? Still not petite enough? Well, then the 16-berth Celebrity Xpedition will be the one for you. While the mechanism of delivery can vary, each of their itineraries combines shore landings with motorised dinghy rides and snorkelling trips for scarcely believable wildlife experiences. Questions about what you’ve seen in the field can be put to expert guides during nightly briefings.

16. Aqua Expeditions

If you’re especially fond of that new superyacht smell, then the good news is that the Aqua Mare is only launched in 2022. Up to 16 passengers are carried in fine style around the archipelago, with specialised guides and inevitably plenty of Galapagoan fauna for company. The Mare was built in Italy in 1998, but is now almost unrecognisable thanks to its refit. There are gorgeous dark wood finishings and polished brass throughout, calling to mind a long since lost era of opulent cruising.

www.aquaexpeditions.com/cruise-ship/aqua-mare/

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Home > Galapagos > Best Galapagos Cruise – Budget to Luxurious

Best Galapagos Cruise: A Guide For All The Budgets

• Last Updated: July 9, 2024

With an abundance of islands, activities, and boats available, finding the best Galapagos cruise for your budget can feel overwhelming. However, I’m here to simplify the process for you.

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Travel guide, itineraries, map, local tips.

Get access to my curated list of all the best viewpoints,  hiking trails, secret waterfalls, diving spots, wildlife  tours, accommodations, and more, that will make your trip to Ecuador and The Galapagos unforgettable.

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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.

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Choosing the Best Itinerary: 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: How many days do you have?

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!

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Availability: 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. The last one is not from Metropolitan Touring, it’s the Monserrat Yacht and it also has great reviews on Tripadvisor.

Comparing Boat Sizes and Types: Understanding the Differences and Pros/Cons of Different Boats

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: What to Expect on a Galapagos Cruise

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: Comparing Options and Reviews

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:

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

Galapagos Charter (Private) vs. Galapagos Cruise: Weighing the Costs and Benefits

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.

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Activities on a galapagos cruise: snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, and more, 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 Best Galapagos Cruise for Your Budget

Finding the best Galapagos cruise for your budget can be an intimidating task, but with the right research and considerations, you can find a great option that meets your needs and expectations. Remember to consider factors such as the type of vessel, itinerary, activities, and amenities offered. And don’t forget that if you prefer to go land-based, we’ve covered all the options, tours, and hotels, so be sure to take a look.

No matter which option you choose, the Galapagos Islands offer a unique and unforgettable experience. From the incredible wildlife to the stunning landscapes, there’s no shortage of things to see and do and you’ll for sure have an adventure of a lifetime.

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15 Best Hotels in Isabela, Galapagos

20 best hotels in santa cruz, galapagos.

15 Best Hotels in San Cristobal, 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.

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The Galapagos, positioned nearly 600 miles west from the region of South America, is quite probably the absolute best destination to see evolution throughout its purely natural splendor.

Named, in Spanish, after the animal that is without a doubt the most well-known of the island chain: The Galapagos Tortoise; the Galapagos boasts many groups of small dainty islands all of which are created of undersea volcanoes eruptions.

Situated directly on the equator, the Galapagos gains all the rewards of such a global location because all the 16 islands have warm climatic conditions all year round! If that wasn’t good enough they are on the crossroads for 2 vitally important trade winds: The North East trade winds (coming from North and the South East trade winds (coming from South America). All these winds are likely precisely what started the influx of sustainable life on the island chain – and are thought to have been the reason for the huge forests covering the higher slopes of the islands.

These island of extraordinary natural splendor have led to the evolution of many diverse, and extremely exceptional, habitats which have in turn allowed (or even pushed) the local wildlife, both flora and fauna alike, to develop in a manner that basically has a lot of scientists shocked.

The rest of the Galapagos island chain is yet another place of completely unique, as well as spectacular fauna.

Galapagos Weather Averages

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It is a regularly asked question: When is a good time to visit Galapagos? There are a number of replies, depending on what you want out of your Galapagos trip. If you want to see the mammals and reptiles that the Galapagos Islands are famous for, you may want to consult this calendar to help you plan your journey.

The same as the birds, the reptiles and mammals in Galapagos follow particular phases of mating and other life functions. These behaviors vary during various days of the year and also from island to island. For example, if you would like to find the bright red-and-green “Christmas Iguanas” of Española, you ought to go in December or January.

The Galapagos is a year-round vacation destination, and nature-loving tourists should expect to be astonished by the plant life and animals in any calendar month. Still, you will find 2 principal “seasons,” each of which has its draws and drawbacks.

High season, when tourists typically force occupancy levels to the maximum, is considered June until early September and mid-December through mid-January. From June until November, the Humboldt Current provides colder, nutrient-rich water and (slightly) cooler land temperatures. Common peaks are typically about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Winds and seas are generally slightly harder. Skies are often cloudier, but rain is unusual. The changes in water quality attracts fish and sea birds, making this a fantastic period to swim. Due to the cooler water temperature — occasionally in the low 60s– utilizing a diving suit is a smart idea for swimmers trying to be in the ocean longer. This is also the mating period for the blue-footed boobies.

December until May, the air and water temperatures are generally much more enjoyable, in the high 80’s, and seas are more calm. Light rain drops for a short period once a day, but the humidity is balanced with potent sunlight. Sun-fans might be proven in February and March, when equatorial heating scorches the lava. Land vegetation blows up, with flowers everywhere. Several species of wild birds mate during this time period, and sea turtle nesting can also happen.

El Nino, a climate trend, can upend weather-related forecasts, bringing a tropical feel to the environment at unanticipated periods.

The Way to Get to the Galapagos Islands</h3 Not certain how to reach the archipelago? It is simple. Your first destination is mainland Ecuador. Whether you are traveling from the USA, Europe or any place else, you need to book an global flight to Guayaquil or Ecuador’s capital, Quito. The Galapagos Islands is a world-famous travel destination famous for being an isolated and pristine archipelago. Their isolation is one of those qualities which make them so unique. You may be wondering how one arrives at the islands. Charles Darwin went to the Galapagos Islands on the Beagle, but modern-day explorers arrive at jet. The sole real daily flights to the Galapagos Islands leave from the cities of Quito and Guayaquil on mainland Ecuador. International travelers should ensure to arrive to the city in order to begin their Galapagos experience. From the Quito and Guayaquil, there are daily flights connecting Ecuador with cities across the Americas and in Europe. Direct flights from the US cities of Miami, Houston, Atlanta, and New York arrive Daily. From Europe you will find direct flights from both Paris and Madrid. After on mainland Ecuador, passengers continue to one of two airports in the Galapagos Islands. The busiest airport in the Galapagos is on Baltra Island. The second airport is located on San Cristobal Island. Flights from Quito and Guayaquil fly there every day bringing passengers to the enchanting islands. In the airports at the Galapagos, passengers move to their cruises or hotels in the port cities of the islands. When booking a cruise in the Galapagos, then it is highly advised to reserve your flights along with the cruise. This guarantees an on-time entrance and averts the risk of missing the cruise death. Our expert trip advisors can help you organize every detail of your journey to the Galapagos Islands. Get in contact with them today to reserve your cruise and flights from Quito or Guayaquil. The trip from Quito the Galapagos is approximately 2.5 hours, and it takes a bit less time out of Guayaquil. As soon as you get to the mainland, you’re just a couple of hours away from seeing the blue-footed boobies and tortoises and swimming with sea lions.

Most of visitors traveling in Galapagos are surprised to be greeted with desert-like vegetation–many are anticipating a continuation of the lush greenery they witnessed on mainland Ecuador. In fact, nearly all the archipelago’s land area is covered by the brown and gray vegetation often found in deserts. The Galapagos Islands are situated in the Pacific Dry Belt, also in average ages just the highest altitudes of the bigger islands receive enough rainfall to support tropical vegetation.

In Geological terms, the islands are young, and much of the island’s plant life reflects this fact; several species appear to be in the middle of the evolutionary process, making classifying them a difficult task. So far, the islands are believed to be home to between 552 and 614 native species of vascular plants and roughly 825 introduced species, nearly all introduced by people. More than 100 of those introduced species have become established in the wild, with a lot of these exceptionally invasive and of big concern. Three introduced plant species are eradicated. The disparity between species number on the Islands and the mainland highlights the fact that the Galapagos Islands are divided from the continent by a hostile saltwater barrier reducing the prospect of arrival and, once a plant has come, establishment is tough because of the harsh environment. It is worthy of notice that more than 30% of indigenous plant species found in Galapagos are endemic (not found anywhere else in the world).

Coastal plants are found in the narrow zone near the coast and are distinctive because of their tolerance to sour conditions. Mangrove trees are among the most frequent plants found in this zone, and they serve an important function as the breeding sites for many birds, like pelicans and frigate birds. They also provide much needed shade areas such as iguanas and sea lions, in addition to refuges for sea turtles.

The dry area has become easily the most extensive zone in Galapagos and is comprised of plant species that are highly adapted to drought-like conditions, such as succulent cacti and leafless shrubs that flower and grow leaves only in the short rainy season.

Located over the dry zones are the very lush and green, humid zones. The humid zone is only found on the bigger, larger islands. Nearly all islands in the archipelago don’t rise in altitude over the arid zone.

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Utopia of the seas: the best dining, amenities and more on royal caribbean's newest ship.

Hop aboard the "World's Biggest Weekend" for sun, sand and nonstop fun.

Utopia of the Seas Review

Jill Schildhouse

Key Takeaways

• Utopia of the Seas is the second-largest cruise ship in the world (after Royal Caribbean 's Icon of the Seas), with 18 decks and 2,834 staterooms.
• The party ship sails three- and four-night Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida. Most stop at the cruise line's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• There are 22 dining venues, 13 bars and lounges, multiple pools and whirlpools, a surf simulator, mini golf, two casinos, a carousel and more.

Royal Caribbean has been making waves in 2024, with the rare release of two new ships in one year. The first was Icon of the Seas , the world's biggest cruise ship to date, which I was completely wowed by on my sailing during the media preview in January. The second is Utopia of the Seas, the world's second-largest cruise ship. I attended Utopia's three-day media preview sailing – it debuted to the public on July 19, 2024, the day after I disembarked.

The two megaships are similar in many ways: They both offer endless ways to dine and drink, have impressive family-friendly amenities, feature show-stopping entertainment and sail out of Florida. But they certainly aren't interchangeable, and there are plenty of differences that make the Utopia experience unique.

Utopia is an Oasis-class ship that can carry 5,668 guests at double occupancy and measures 1,188 feet from bow to stern. There are 2,290 crew on board from all over the world – and each one is dedicated to ensuring you have a great time.

Utopia is being billed as the "World's Biggest Weekend," which means partying is the main attraction. After cruising on the ship, I'd compare it to going all out on a weekend in Las Vegas . There's so much to see and do that you'll undoubtedly spend your time on board maximizing every moment – just know now that you won't be able to get to it all.

During the media preview sailing, Grammy-winning artist and songwriter Meghan Trainor was on board (with her entire family), serving in her role as Utopia's official godmother. She attended the naming ceremony with more than 4,000 partygoers, including the legendary Rev Run (of Run-DMC) and DJ Ruckus at the turntables, pumping out chart-toppers from the '80s, '90s and 2000s. On the final evening at sea, Trainor took center stage in the open-air AquaTheater and performed an hourlong concert of her biggest hits. It was an absolute blast. While these one-time experiences won't be available on a typical voyage, Utopia's nonstop party atmosphere is here to stay.

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Utopia of the Seas itineraries 2024

Utopia offers three- and four-night cruises from Port Canaveral, near Orlando, Florida , through the Bahamas and Western Caribbean. While there are a couple of one-off itineraries planned for 2025 – including a four-night Western Caribbean cruise that stops in Cozumel, Mexico – most passengers will choose between two main itineraries.

The first option is a three-night journey (Friday through Monday) that visits Nassau and Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. (There are no sea days on this itinerary.) The second option is a four-night cruise (Monday through Friday) that visits the same two ports, but adds a relaxing day at sea in between.

As someone who cruised on the three-night sailing, I highly recommend bumping up to the four-night voyage if you can swing it. Without the extra evening on the ship, I left quite a few stones unturned – mainly in the form of sold-out shows and restaurants and evening venues I didn't have enough time to explore.

Who should sail on Utopia of the Seas?

This ship caters to two distinct crowds. The first is families with young children who are looking for plenty of activities to keep their kids entertained, while sneaking in some adult alone time. Honestly, you may be hard-pressed to even get your children to hang out with you, considering how many activities are catered to young travelers.

Utopia is home to the longest dry slide at sea, The Ultimate Abyss, as well as The Perfect Storm, where you'll find waterslides galore, including dual racer slides Typhoon and Cyclone. There are five pools on board, and the heart of the ship hosts live music, DJs, impromptu pool parties and contests.

Kids ages 3 through 11 can spend time at the Adventure Ocean youth program, which provides full days of complimentary supervised activities and entertainment. Meanwhile, Wonder Playscape features slides, climbing walls and other interactive features that have been completely reimagined for Utopia. If you have teens in tow, they'll love having their very own hangout, Social 100, with daily programming highlights like disco parties and game nights.

The second category of travelers who will love Utopia is young professionals (think: bachelorette parties, girlfriend getaways and couples) who are ready to party their weekend away. There are two casinos on board (including the nonsmoking Casino Royale), a karaoke bar, dance parties at Boleros Latin club, live music at a handful of venues each night, shows at The Attic comedy club and more.

The pool deck is a happening scene, and Central Park was my favorite spot to meet up for a glass of wine or cup of coffee – the perfect al fresco moment surrounded by lush greenery. For a little rest and relaxation, book massages at Vitality Spa or spend time unwinding at the adults-only Solarium pool, which is fitted with its own bar and whirlpools overlooking spectacular sea views.

The stateroom

I stayed in an ocean view balcony cabin and found it perfectly met my needs. In fact, I was almost surprised by how many thoughtful storage solutions there were, given that the longest sailing on the ship is currently only four nights. My cabin had plenty of drawers, closets and shelf space – not to mention some handy hooks built into the bedroom area. There was also a desk, a chair and a sofa, plus a nice-sized balcony with chairs. Several outlets and USB ports allowed me to charge multiple devices at once, and the decor was tranquil, using neutral colors with turquoise accents.

Utopia also offers several convenient suite types for families, including the larger-than-life Ultimate Family Suite, with three bedrooms that hold up to 10 guests and upgrades your kids will never forget, like an in-suite cinema room and karaoke station, a corner balcony with table tennis and a private whirlpool, and a two-story slide. To be clear, though, the price tag for this suite starts in the low five figures per guest (think: $11,000 per person – or more).

I rarely recommend interior cabins because I love sitting on my balcony and having natural light in the room, but budget-conscious travelers shouldn't hesitate to book one on Utopia. It's a great value, and with a ship as filled with over-the-top amenities as this one, you'll likely only be in your cabin to sleep (if you find time do that) and shower.

Travelers cruising with a small group can choose connecting rooms to ensure they don't miss out on a minute of togetherness, while couples looking to splurge a little will enjoy the Royal Loft Suite with a master loft, a living room, a private balcony with a whirlpool, a TV, a minibar and a whirlpool tub in the bathroom.

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Best amenities on Utopia of the Seas

One of my favorite things about Royal Caribbean cruises is the Vegas-style entertainment – and Utopia delivers a lineup of top-notch shows. On night one, I saw the original production "All In!" in the Royal Theater, which is a celebration of the history of music, from Studio 54 to Burning Man. I loved every minute, from the jazzy costumes and brilliant song selections to the intricate choreography and immense talent of the singers and dancers. The show incorporates eye-catching technology featuring drones, lasers and projection mapping, too.

I also enjoyed the action-packed "Aqua80Too" show in the AquaTheater, a live performance of world-class acrobats, extreme sports athletes and divers, set to '80s hits that had the entire audience singing and dancing. My only complaint about this production is that it was standing room only, even though I got there 15 minutes before showtime. If you'd like a more comfortable experience, be sure to reserve seats in the app before they sell out.

If shows aren't your thing, there are other activities all day and night, from sailaway parties and silent discos to line dance and salsa dance classes.

I spent a few hours during our sea day chilling in the lounge chairs in the shallow part of the pool, attempting to read a book … but there were too many juicy distractions. I eventually gave up and directed my full attention to the DJ-hosted dance contest and struck up conversations with other passengers sitting nearby.

In the evenings, I enjoyed listening to live covers of classic rock music in the Music Hall (this bi-level bar also has a pool table) and country tunes at The Mason Jar. The latter venue was always packed, so get there early if you want to nab a seat.

I'd heard about the Caribbean drinks and fun vibe at the Pesky Parrot, a colorful tiki bar with an animatronic parrot, but I never made it there in the evening to experience it myself. However, I did snoop around the bar during the day, and I wondered why Royal Caribbean decided to put it in the Royal Promenade instead of making it an outdoor venue on the pool deck or in Central Park.

Best dining venues on Utopia of the Seas

There are plenty of included dining options on Utopia, like the main dining room, Park Cafe (fresh grab-and-go snacks), El Loco Fresh (an outdoor Mexican buffet), Sorrento's (a pizza joint), the Windjammer buffet and Sprinkles ice cream.

On other Royal Caribbean ships, I've enjoyed such specialty restaurants as Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Johnny Rockets, 150 Central Park (elevated, classic entrees) and the Chef's Table (an intimate five-course culinary journey led by the ship's Chef de Cuisine that I still think about six months later). With only three nights on Utopia, I decided to skip all of these and instead set my sights on venues I hadn't tried before.

One of the hottest tickets for dinner aboard Utopia is the Royal Railway, an immersive experience that involves stepping onto a replica of an old-timey train station platform. You're greeted with a welcome drink of moonshine in a glass flask before the conductor guides you to your seats. What follows is a four-course journey of Southwestern and American dishes. I thoroughly enjoyed everything I ordered: the bread wagon, empanadas, braised short rib and a chocolate dessert.

During the ride, digital scenes of the American Frontier move along outside of the "windows" – the moment that began, a woman seated at my table immediately got up and ran out of the room due to motion sickness from the simulated experience (she never returned). I am prone to motion sickness myself, but thankfully I wasn't affected. The train makes its way across the countryside as a small cast of costumed characters act out an elaborate sheriff-catching-the-bandits sketch. (Note: Some elements are interactive, and you may get chosen to participate in a skit – nothing was embarrassing or required any physical exertion.)

I left with mixed feelings about this experience. The idea was fun, and the food was well executed, but there was never a lull in the entertainment, so I didn't have even a moment to chat with my tablemates or enjoy my food. I feel the act could be condensed to provide a little breathing room and some quiet moments, as it's a tight space and the actors are quite adept at projecting their voices. I think families with young kids might enjoy this venue the most, though the cost (starting at $74.99 per person) adds up quickly for a party of four.

Another night, I dined at Hooked Seafood, where I ordered the shrimp cocktail, oysters and The Captain's Platter, which consisted of Maine lobster, a fresh fish filet and shrimp. The entire meal was OK, but the ambiance was a bit lackluster, so I'm not sure I'd seek this venue out on future sailings.

Surprisingly, my dinner in the main dining room was my favorite of the sailing; the service was excellent, the food was tasty and there was no extra fee. Next time, I hope to try a meal at The Mason Jar, which serves Southern fare and is only found on one other Royal Caribbean ship: Wonder of the Seas . I'd also like to check out Izumi Hibachi and Sushi. Another venue I never got to was The Spare Tire, a cute food truck-style eatery on the pool deck perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat, without having to towel off.

Best excursions on Utopia of the Seas

On my sailing, our only port stop was Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas . I've visited it three times this year, and I'm happy to report it always lives up to its name.

On the exclusive island, you'll find a beach club, a water park, several swimming pools and lagoons, and an adults-only area called Hideaway Beach (my favorite spot, because it's so chill). The island is also home to the tallest waterslide in North America; I was brave enough to ride it earlier this year, but I don't need to repeat that heart-pounding experience!

All food and nonalcoholic drinks are included while you're on the island (choose from burgers and hot dogs to chicken sandwiches and tacos, plus ice cream, lemonade, iced tea and juices), as are the beach and pool loungers, umbrellas and towels. There are also upgrades available if you'd like to enhance your experience, including alcoholic drinks, cabana rentals, and access to the water park and zip line.

Otherwise, shore excursion highlights in Nassau, Bahamas, include a sea lion or dolphin adventure, beach days spent at the Blue Lagoon Island (adults-only outings are available) and stingray encounters. And if you book the one sailing that docks in Cozumel, try a tequila mixology class, check out a turtle sanctuary or head to the Mayan ruins in Tulum .

Overall impressions of Utopia of the Seas

If you're looking for an around-the-clock party atmosphere on an enormous ship with a never-ending list of ways to spend your time, Utopia of the Seas is the ship for you. There's always something fun happening – and usually two or three things at once. In fact, your biggest struggle on board will be deciding how many activities you can fit into your schedule each day. Be sure to prioritize your must-do activities, restaurants, bars and shows early on, then fill in the gaps with any extras.

Vacationers yearning for a relaxing and quiet getaway may find Utopia's frenetic energy a bit much. There are truly very few places (outside of your cabin's balcony, if you have one) where you can enjoy some solitude and downtime.

Personally, I fell somewhere in the middle. I really enjoyed the experience and did my best to keep up a pace befitting the "World's Biggest Weekend," but three days was plenty. As I disembarked, I realized that on a ship like Utopia, it's up to you to create your own nirvana by setting a pace that's right for you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the '90s, when she joined a family cruise vacation during college. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships in the Caribbean, tiny riverboats on the Seine and Mekong Rivers, small yachts around Alaska and Iceland, and midsized ships in the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. Schildhouse covers the travel and cruise industries for national publications, including U.S. News & World Report, Insider, Reader's Digest, Southern Living, AARP, The Points Guy and more.

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8 best South America cruises for 2025-2026

Many of South America 's top sights are best experienced on a cruise ship. You can take in the lush scenery as you sail down the remote Amazon River, marvel at Chile's breathtaking fjords from the sea and come face to face with rare indigenous species in the Galapagos Islands .

What's more, some sailings venture from Chile and Argentina to the Antarctic Peninsula. You'll be able to cross off that bucket-list item of making it to the Seventh Continent while taking in the rare sights of glaciers, icebergs and adorable penguins.

Add in port visits in vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Montevideo, Uruguay, and setting off on one of these cruise itineraries provides a great opportunity to see South America's diverse destinations. Plus, your cruise might include jaunts to tropical Caribbean islands or a Panama Canal crossing along the way.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Cruises to South America are adventuresome, indeed, and most require a decent time commitment, plus long flights to your departure port. If you're planning on sailing away to this region in the next year or two, here are eight of the best South America cruises to inspire you to book your trip and start dreaming.

Silversea Cruises' 12-night Cruise from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires

Silversea Cruises ' 388-passenger Silver Whisper visits a winning combination of great beaches and big cities on a cruise down the Atlantic coastline of Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. The 12-night cruise from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires sets out a few days after Christmas.

The itinerary begins on Dec. 28, 2025, with an overnight stay in the dazzling city of Rio de Janeiro. Sunbathe on the gorgeous Brazilian beaches during stops at Buzios and Ilhabela and visit the coastal rainforests of Paranagua by foot, coach or boat.

Discover why Balneario Camboriu's skyline, nightlife, beaches and attractions have given it the moniker "the Dubai of Brazil" and why Punta del Este in Uruguay has been compared to Monaco. After taking in the history and sights of Uruguay's capital city of Montevideo, the itinerary winds down with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires.

Who should go : Luxury-minded, mature couples seek out Silversea's small luxury ships. If you're looking for elevated dining options and spacious, ocean-view suites, most with private verandas and all with butler service, then Silver Whisper could be the ship for you. The ship is like a boutique hotel at sea but still offers an expanded spa, a multitiered show lounge and four restaurants.

Windstar Cruises' 10-night Marvels of Ecuador, Peru and the Panama Canal cruise

Small ship line Windstar Cruises is expanding its global reach with its first South America cruises on board the all-suite, 312-passenger yacht Star Pride . Sailings begin in December 2025.

The 11-day Marvels of Ecuador, Peru and the Panama Canal cruise departs Colon, Panama, on Dec. 27, 2025, and transits the Panama Canal the following day. Then it's on to Ecuador, where an overnight stay in Manta gives plenty of time to soak up the city's simple beauty and pretty beaches. Passengers can spend the day strolling the Simón Bolívar promenade and climbing the lighthouse at Santa Ana Hill during another overnight stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

During the final overnight stay in Lima, Peru, guests can trek to Chan Chan, the archaeological site of the pre-Colombian Chimu civilization, or wash down lomo saltado (a Peruvian beef dish) with a pisco sour cocktail.

If you dream of spotting blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas, you can add on an optional Galapagos Islands overland tour or a trip to awe-inspiring Machu Picchu before or after your cruise.

Who should go : Windstar's smaller vessels appeal to passengers who like a sophisticated yet informal vibe. Guests are mostly well-traveled couples in their late 30s to early 60s who engage in the evening port talks and cultural excursions. Beyond a pool deck, a library and a gym, Star Pride does not offer many diversions on board; passengers are all about debarking on port days and soaking up the culture.

MSC Cruises' 7-night South America cruise

If you're looking for a shorter cruise with a focus on Brazil, check out MSC Cruises ' seven-night South America cruise on 6,334-passenger MSC Grandiosa. The itinerary departs on Jan. 7, 14 and 21 and Feb. 4, 2025, from Salvador de Bahia, Brazil's cultural and historic center rich with Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Throughout the cruise, passengers can bask in the country's most beautiful beaches in Maceio; check out the ruins in Sao Paulo, one of Portugal's first New World settlements; and spend time in Buzios, a chic coastal resort known as the St-Tropez of Brazil for its beaches, restaurants, bars and boutiques. After spending several relaxing days at sea, the ship returns to Salvador.

Who should go : This Swiss-based cruise line attracts an international mix of passengers, including families, couples and solo travelers, with an average age of 50. MSC's South America itineraries also draw lots of local cruisers. This cruise is perfect for those who want to sample a few Brazilian destinations but also have time to relax on the ship and enjoy meeting shipmates from other countries.

MSC Grandiosa features the MSC Yacht Club , an upscale ship-within-a-ship experience with added amenities, including 24-hour butler service, exclusive venues and priority embarkation. Luxury-minded travelers might consider the upgrade a worthy splurge.

Viking's 14-night Argentina & the Chilean Fjords cruise

Viking 's new ocean itinerary for 2025 is Argentina & the Chilean Fjords , a 14-night, two-country itinerary departing from Buenos Aires on Feb. 26 and March 9, 2025, on Viking Polaris and on March 4 and 13, 2026, on Viking Octantis. These two 378-passenger Polar Class sister ships have 189 cabins and are designed for expeditions in remote locations like Antarctica, with ample outdoor and indoor viewing areas.

After an overnight stay in Manaus, Brazil, passengers take a chartered flight to the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina. The sailing explores the rugged Chilean coastline, including the blue glaciers and iceberg peaks in the fjords, with onboard experts to explain the fascinating landscape and geography and point out the colonies of Magellanic penguins and elephant seals.

Guests will also discover the tiny enclave of Puerto Chacabuco, Chile, the gateway to Patagonia, and sail around Cape Horn, where the Atlantic and Pacific oceans meet. They'll disembark in Santiago, Chile's port city of Valparaiso, rich with neo-Gothic, neoclassical and art deco architecture.

Who should go : Viking cruises are designed for curious travelers whose interests are piqued by science, history, culture and cuisine. The minimum age to sail is 18, but the voyages are designed for travelers ages 55 and older. You won't find children, casinos, inside cabins or nickel-and-diming, but you will find like-minded passengers who expect to become immersed in the local culture, both on and off the ship.

Holland America's 26-night Amazon Explorer

Guests who seek an Amazon River cruise yet still want the amenities offered on a big ship can embark on Holland America 's 26-night Amazon Explorer cruise on 1,432-passenger Zaandam. The nearly monthlong voyage sails round-trip from Miami on Feb. 8, 2025, and from Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 24, 2025. (Passengers on the latter cruise can also add a few days on the front end and start from New York City on Nov. 21, 2025.)

The highlights of this voyage are the several days spent cruising the more populous side of the Amazon River in Brazil. Here, passengers will experience the "meeting of the waters," where the dark waters of the Rio Negro flow alongside the sandy waters of the Rio Solimoes, and two equator crossings. In fact, time spent in Macapa will give you bragging rights, as the equator runs right through this Brazilian city.

You'll also visit Santarem, a Brazilian jungle town with crystal clear beaches thanks to the pristine waters of the Tapajos River, and the settlement of Boca da Valeria, Brazil, a small fishing and trading village where guests can learn about the way of life of its 100 inhabitants. Buzzing Manaus is adjacent to jungle pursuits, and in Parintins, dancers and performers in the Boi Bumba show pay homage to the yearly folk festival held in this Brazilian island city. Alter do Chao, a laid-back Brazilian town known as the Caribbean of the Amazon, is a perfect segue to the island stops that follow.

After exploring Brazil and the Amazon, the itinerary continues on to Caribbean ports like beachy St. Maarten, lush St. Lucia and Afro-centric Trinidad and Tobago, as well as remote Devil's Island in French Guiana, home to impenetrable prisons in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Who should go : This cruise is perfect for travelers who want to explore the Amazon from a convenient North American home port and skip the long-haul flights — and those who have time for an almost monthlong cruise. The lengthy itinerary attracts guests who are retired or have a flexible schedule. Expect more leisurely onboard activities and formal dining.

Princess Cruises' 16-night South America and Antarctica cruise

Didn't think you could sail a big ship to Antarctica? Princess Cruises can take you there. New for this season is a 16-night round-trip South America and Antarctica cruise aboard 2,670-passenger Sapphire Princess, which departs Jan. 4 and 20, 2025, after an overnight stay in Buenos Aires.

After a few days at sea, the ship will stop in Punta Arenas, Chile, and Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Argentina, before four days of scenic cruising around the Antarctic Peninsula. Sights there include Elephant Island, the Antarctic Sound, Deception Island, Gerlache Strait, Neumayer Channel, the South Shetland Islands and Admiralty Bay. On the return from the world's southernmost area, the ship will stop in the Falkland Islands and Montevideo before returning to Buenos Aires.

Who should go : Princess caters to the more traditional cruiser, and passengers skew older. This itinerary is ideal for those who dream of checking off all seven continents but don't have the funds or the stamina for a more strenuous and spendy expedition cruise to Antarctica. Here, you can appreciate commentary from the onboard naturalists and other experts pointing out the geology (and the penguins!) from the comfort of your big ship. Plus, you get to enjoy several attractive South American ports on the way to and from the White Continent.

Crystal's 18-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Peru

Crystal 's 18-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Callao (Lima), Peru , is a fabulous way to kick off the new year. The cruise departs Jan. 7, 2025, on 740-passenger Crystal Serenity .

Passengers will visit nine countries and 14 destinations; half the stops in the itinerary are in Central America, with five ports in three South American countries.

The trip includes a long day in Costa Maya, Mexico; stops in Belize and the Cayman Islands; and a Panama Canal transit. Overnights in Cartagena, Colombia, and Guayaquil, Ecuador, round out the itinerary before it finishes up in Lima.

Sea days along the way ensure you're ready to explore at every port. Sample shore excursions include checking out Grand Cayman by helicopter or under the sea on a two-stop wreck snorkel trip.

Who should go : Crystal's itineraries appeal to well-heeled travelers who can appreciate the line's legacy of sophistication, unrivaled service and elegance at every touchpoint. Epicureans will be drawn to the range of upscale dining options (including Umi Uma, Nobu's only restaurant at sea) and Serenity's newly renovated rooms, public spaces and Aurora Spa. As this itinerary spans 2 1/2 weeks, it's geared toward retirees or travelers with a flexible schedule.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 25-night Emerald Reefs & Amazon Adventure

Combine tropical island hopping with Amazonian exploration with Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 25-night Emerald Reefs & Amazon Adventure . The round-trip cruise aboard the all-suite, 490-passenger Seven Seas Navigator departs from Miami.

Love those azure Caribbean waters? You'll experience them during stops in St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominica and Barbados. Then, you'll cruise to South America, where you'll spend seven days sailing down the Amazon River to Boca da Valeria, Manaus, Parintins and Alter do Chao.

Explore quaint, remote towns and turquoise lagoons, as well as the largest river archipelago of the Amazon. Marvel at the architecture in Manaus, which was so glitzy at the turn of the 19th century that it was once referred to as the "Paris of the Tropics."

Before returning to Miami, you'll spend your last full day on the powdery beaches of Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.

Who should go : This itinerary will intrigue passengers who want to be immersed in the flora, fauna and culture of the Amazon without having to fly there. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is one of the most inclusive cruise lines and, therefore, one of the most expensive. Its well-educated, well-traveled guests prefer upscale vacations and luxury offerings.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

I've sailed with every Royal Caribbean cruise line — here's how to pick the best one for you

• Royal Caribbean Group oversees Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea.
• The three brands target different guests, from families with young kids to older wealthy travelers.
• Here's how the cruise lines compare and how to pick the best one for your needs.

You've probably heard of Royal Caribbean's cruises . But you might not know that it has two sister brands — and they're nothing alike.

The cruise line's parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, oversees three businesses that all target different cruising segments: families ( Royal Caribbean International ), premium (Celebrity Cruises), and ultra-luxury (Silversea).

I've been on complimentary non-revenue sailings with all three. And let me tell you, they all had little in common.

Royal Caribbean is like a theme park at sea, Celebrity has a boutique hotel feel, and Silversea has floating five-star resorts.

But there is one feature that ties the trio together — a loyalty program.

Royal Caribbean Group announced in 2023 that travelers with status at one of its brands can now get equivalent status across all three cruise lines.

So, if you're a Royal Caribbean International regular who's cruise-curious and eyeing a Silversea sailing or Celebrity vacation, here's a guide to the trio and how to best pick the one for your needs.

Royal Caribbean International — the cruise line for families with young children.

The cruise giant's eponymous brand, arguably the most recognizable on this list, operates a fleet of 28 ships. Seven are the world's largest, including the title-holder 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas , which the company has repeatedly lauded as the "best-selling product in its history."

The six-month-old mega-ship perhaps best exemplifies the traits synonymous with Royal Caribbean International: giant vessels , a family-friendly environment, and uniquely exciting amenities.

Expect attractions like waterslides, mini-golf courses, surf simulators, and children's water playgrounds.

The cruise line's oldest ship, Grandeur of the Seas, offers amenities such as a rock climbing wall and outdoor movie theater.

On its newest, Utopia of the Seas , guests get three waterslides, an ice skating rink, an underwater-themed mini-golf course, and five pools. But even that pales to Icon, which has seven pools and a six-slide waterpark.

The cruise line is generally considered its parent company's most affordable brand.

Unfortunately, that also means there will be plenty of upcharges.

About half of the restaurants on its newest and largest ships cost extra, from casual dining venues like Johny Rockets to the upscale $200-per-person Empire Supper Club .

The same goes for some of its amenities, like the $49-per-person agility course. And the bars, of course, which include options like ones with robot bartenders, a sports bar, and even a karaoke lounge.

Beyond floating hotels, the brand also boasts Perfect Day at CocoCay, its $350 million private island in the Bahamas.

There, travelers can lounge at various beaches, take a dip in a large freshwater pool, or pay extra to access the waterpark and two private beach clubs , one of which is adults-only.

The Bahamian destination was exclusive to Royal Caribbean International guests for its first few years in operation — until April, when Celebrity Cruises announced that it, too, would start sailing to CocoCay.

Celebrity Cruises — the choice for travelers who want a premium, trendy ship.

Unlike Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises isn't known to be a vacation haven for young children.

Celebrity does offer onboard kids' clubs. But don't expect to see the waterslides and carousels of its mass-market sister brand.

Celebrity's contemporary lounges and rooftop gardens are designed to target Gen Xers.

Celebrity ships have trendy and polished spaces. Think restaurants that look like they belong at high-end beachside resorts, 2.5-acre lawns with live jazz, and glassblowing classes.

Instead of frozen beverages and karaoke, Celebrity has bars focusing on martinis, wines, and mixology. Newer ships also have the Magic Carpet , a moving bar suspended over the water.

Some of its dining venues also have fees.

Celebrity's newer Edge Class ships have at least 29 bars and restaurants. But if you want sushi, a steakhouse feast, or a dinner at famed chef Daniel Boulud's Le Voyage, you'll have to pay extra (it is still a Royal Caribbean Group brand, after all).

But just because it's a premium cruise line doesn't mean its ships are small.

Celebrity's latest and largest vessels, Celebrity Ascent and Beyond, have a double occupancy capacity of 3,260 guests. It's undeniably smaller than Royal Caribbean International's 5,000-plus-guest cruise liners but still large enough to give you that big-ship feel.

If you're craving a small, intimate vessel , that's what Silversea is for.

Silversea — the pick for wealthy travelers who prefer small, quiet ships and sumptuous amenities.

Silversea is best known for its expedition cruises and luxurious ships, the largest of which can only accommodate 728 travelers.

The average age of its guests also skewers older than Celebrity and Royal Caribbean's, averaging in the mid-60s, Andrea Tonet, Silversea's vice president of product strategy, told reporters during a June media panel.

The brand has started targeting younger travelers with its latest vessels.

And it's working — Silver Nova and Silver Ray have seen an influx in younger cruisers compared to Silversea's 10 other ships, Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts on Thursday.

"Younger," as in guests in their 40s, according to Tonet.

If Celebrity has minimal kid-oriented amenities, Silversea has none.

Instead, it leans further into Celebrity's focus on relaxing, high-end lounges and restaurants. But unlike its premium counterpart's colorfully contemporary decor, Silversea's latest ships look more subdued.

Think "whisper luxury" with bright, elegant spaces and an emphasis on good drinks and food.

Like other luxury cruise lines, Silversea has all-inclusive packages that include flights and excursions.

And unlike its sister brands, none of Silversea's cabins are inside and windowless.

Instead, they all have views, if not balconies, and a butler who can help with tasks like packing your luggage and reserving onboard restaurants.

It's also the only cruise line with SALT, an acronym for 'sea and land taste.'

The program launched three years ago turns its small ships into local cuisine-focused cruises .

This could include food-oriented shore excursions, onboard cooking classes, restaurants with menus that rotate according to the port, and bars that showcase regional spirits and ingredients.

Speaking of, it's also the only Royal Caribbean Group line with complimentary spa access and drinks.

Even the no-fee meals are high-end, from a restaurant with live jazz to room service with free caviar and foie gras.

Instead of a casual grab-and-go pizza stand , Silversea has an alfresco grill-it-yourself restaurant. And instead of an onboard Starbucks (like some of Royal Caribbean's ships), Silversea has a café with TWG teas and espresso drinks.

However, not everything is free. Like its sister brands, a handful of its restaurants, like the upscale French and Japanese options, are upcharged.

With these high-end amenities comes comparatively hefty fares.

Silversea's least expensive weeklong cruise in 2025 starts at $2,800 per person — steep compared to Royal Caribbean and Celebrity's cheapest seven-night cruises next year, which are $804 and $641 per person, respectively.

Pricing aside, Royal Caribbean should be your top pick if your vacation priority is keeping the kids entertained and happy.

If you want to keep the big-ship feel but prefer a cooler and more contemporary environment, Celebrity is your best bet.

But if you only care about relaxation, being pampered, and caviar, go with Silversea. The less kid-oriented atmosphere will hopefully give you the quiet you're craving.

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The Galapagos Islands and many of their unique creatures are at risk from warming waters

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GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS, Ecuador (AP) — Warm morning light reflects from the remains of a natural rock arch near Darwin Island, one of the most remote islands in the Galapagos. In clear, deep blue water, thousands of creatures — fish, hammerhead sharks, marine iguanas — move in search of food.

The 2021 collapse of Darwin’s Arch, named for the famed British naturalist behind the theory of evolution, came from natural erosion. But its demise underscored the fragility of a far-flung archipelago that’s coming under increased pressure both from climate change and invasive species.

A piece of the edge of Darwin’s Arch is visible in the ocean above Pacific creolefish off of Darwin Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Thursday, June 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A whale shark swims through the waters off of Wolf Island, Ecuador, next to Enrique “Quike” Moran, a local naturalist from Santa Cruz Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Warming oceans affect the food sources of many of the seagoing animals in the Galapagos. Marine iguanas — one of many species that are endemic, or unique, to the Galapagos — have a harder time finding the red and green algae they prefer. Sea turtles struggle to nest in warmer temperatures. Raising young gets harder as water warms and fewer nutrients are available.

The Galapagos Islands and its many creatures have always been sensitive to changes in ocean temperatures. But the significant warming from climate change in recent years has put pressure on many species in the remote islands off the coast of Ecuador. (AP Video/Alie Skowronski)

While the Galapagos are known for a great multitude of species, their numbers aren’t unlimited.

“We have something of everything here – that’s why people say the Galapagos is so diverse – but we have a small number of each thing,” said Natasha Cabezas, a naturalist guide.

Naturalist Natasha Cabezas poses on San Cristobal Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Sunday, June 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Natasha Cabezas, a naturalist from San Lorenzo, Ecuador, dives with hammerhead sharks off of Wolf Island, Ecuador, in the Galapagos, on Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

The Galapagos have always been sensitive to changes in ocean temperature. The archipelago itself is located where major ocean currents converge — cool from the south, warm from the north, and a cold upwelling current from the west. Then there’s El Nino, the periodic and natural Pacific Ocean warming that affects weather worldwide.

While temperatures vary depending on the season and other naturally-occurring climate events, ocean temperatures have been rising because of human-caused climate change as oceans absorb the vast majority of excess heat in the atmosphere. The ocean experienced its warmest decade since at least the 1800s in the last 10 years, and 2023 was the ocean’s warmest year on record .

Early June brings winter in the Southern Hemisphere, and the Cromwell current brings whale sharks, hammerheads, and massive sunfish to the surface. It also provides nutrients for penguins, marine iguanas and sea lions in search of food. As more of those animals make themselves known this season, scientists are tracking how they fared in the warming of the past year’s El Nino .

El Nino can bring food shortages for some species like marine iguanas and sea turtles, as the warmer ocean means dwindling food sources. Scientists observing the species have noted a significant decline in population numbers during El Nino events.

Marine iguanas swim like snakes through the water from rock to rock as waves crash against the shore of Fernandina Island. They latch themselves onto the undersea rocks to feed on algae growing there, while sea lions spin around them like puppies looking for someone to play with.

The iguanas were “one of the most affected species from El Niño last year and right now they are still recovering,” said Galapagos Conservancy Director Jorge Carrión.

Two marine iguanas found only in the Galapagos swim on the outskirts of Fernandina Island, Ecuador on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A marine iguana found only in the Galapagos Islands feeds on algae and other plants off of Fernandina Island, Ecuador on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

As rising ocean temperatures threaten aquatic or seagoing life, on land there’s a different problem. Feral animals — cats, dogs, pigs, goats and cattle, none of them native — are threatening the unique species of the islands.

After the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are abandoning the dogs and cats they wanted to keep them company, Cabezas said.

“If you don’t take care of them they become a problem and now it’s a shame to see dogs everywhere. We have a big problem right now I don’t know what we’re going to do,” she said.

A giant tortoise estimated to be over 100 years old feeds in the highlands on a reserve called Rancho Primicias on Saturday, June 15, 2024, on Santa Cruz, Ecuador in the Galapagos. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A feral dog wanders the streets of Santa Rosa, Ecuador in the Galapagos, outside the highland grounds where giant tortoises feed on Saturday, June 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

The non-native animals are a special threat to the giant tortoises closely associated with the Galapagos. The tortoises declined dramatically in the 19th century due to hunting and poaching, and authorities have worked to protect them from humans. It’s been illegal to kill a giant tortoise since 1933.

“In one night, a feral pig can destroy all nesting sites in an area,” Carrión said. Park rangers try to visit areas with nesting sites once a day, and kill pigs when they find them. But the pigs are elusive, Carrion said.

Feral cats feed on marine iguana hatchings, and both pigs and cats compete for food with the tortoises.

A Pacific green sea turtle swims near Fernandina Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

If invasive species and warming oceans weren’t enough, there’s the plastic that is a widespread problem in the world’s oceans . One recent study reported microplastics in the bellies of Galapagos penguins.

“There are no animals in the Galapagos that do not have microplastics in their food,” Carrión said.

A Galapagos penguin swims around Bartolome Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A Galapagos sea lion swims in front of Galapagos penguins at Bartolome Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A Galapagos sea lion swims around the rocky reef off of Isabela Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Galapagos ringtail damselfish swim near reef in Cabo Marshall at Isabela Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Saltwater succulents grow by the water on Bartolome Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Sally Lightfoot crabs, also known as the red rock crabs, line the volcanic ash on Bartolome Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Natasha Cabezas, a naturalist from San Lorenzo, Ecuador, hikes up a hill formed by volcanic ash on Bartolome Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Friday, June 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A colony of sea lions rest at Playa Mann on San Cristobal Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Sunday, June 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A sea bird dives down to look at fish off of Wolf Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Monday, June 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A pod of dolphins swim off of Wolf Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Sunday, June 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

A type of Pacific green sea turtle swims through the water off of Wolf Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Monday, June 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

Bigeye trevally fish swim against the current at Wolf Island, Ecuador in the Galapagos on Monday, June 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Alie Skowronski)

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