The Galapagos Islands, an extraordinary archipelago located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, offer access to some of the most remarkable wildlife and pristine environments on Earth. Unlike typical cruise destinations, a Galapagos cruise invites travelers to discover a collection of unspoiled, mostly uninhabited islands that are home to species found nowhere else. These voyages, however, are far from traditional. The ships are small, often accommodating as few as 16 passengers, ensuring an intimate experience. Forget water parks, Broadway-style shows, or casinos. These cruises focus solely on the natural world—providing an up-close, environmentally responsible way to witness everything from the islands’ iconic giant tortoises to playful sea lions. On board, you’ll find kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba equipment, with most itineraries featuring active excursions that can include kayaking alongside marine life, snorkeling with sea lions, and hiking through volcanic landscapes. The goal is to offer guests a connection to nature that is both immersive and relaxing.
All travelers are accompanied by certified National Park guides, ensuring expert-led, informative journeys through these largely undeveloped lands. The region is famous for its biodiversity and the unique behaviors of its wildlife, making the Galapagos a once-in-a-lifetime destination for many. Cruises to this remote region usually span about a week, covering various islands and their respective ecosystems. Whether you’re looking for a luxury cruise or an adventure-packed itinerary, there’s a Galapagos cruise for every type of traveler.
FAQ:
Where should I embark for a Galapagos cruise?
Getting to the Galapagos requires some logistical planning. After flying into Quito or Guayaquil in Ecuador, passengers typically spend a night there before flying to the islands to board their ships.
When is the best time to cruise the Galapagos Islands?
With a consistently mild climate year-round, the Galapagos can be visited at any time, although certain seasons offer exceptional wildlife viewing. December is when the giant tortoises hatch, and July marks the mating season for blue-footed boobies and short-eared owls. In April and May, marine iguanas typically hatch, while sea turtles begin laying their eggs at the start of the year. Given the diverse wildlife and year-round natural phenomena, there’s never a “wrong” time to visit the islands.
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. But one thing’s for sure: Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you.
Do I need a passport to go on a Galapagos cruise?
Yes, most travelers will need a passport to visit the Galapagos Islands, which are part of Ecuador. While the islands are a protected area, they are still under Ecuadorian jurisdiction, so travelers must have a valid passport to board the cruise and access the islands.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a Galapagos cruise?
The Galapagos Islands are renowned for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. The islands’ ecosystems are so diverse that you can see a variety of species in different environments, from volcanic shores to lush highlands.
Best Galapagos cruise for wildlife lovers
Celebrity Cruises’ Galapagos itineraries offer a unique and luxurious experience that is perfect for wildlife lovers. The Celebrity Flora and Celebrity Xploration, both small, eco-conscious ships, are designed to navigate the remote and pristine areas of the Galapagos Islands, providing access to places that larger vessels simply can’t reach. This smaller scale allows for more intimate and undisturbed wildlife encounters. Onboard, expert naturalist guides with deep knowledge of the islands’ ecosystems lead informative excursions that enhance the experience, ensuring that guests not only witness the region’s iconic species, like giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, but also understand their ecological importance.
Celebrity’s focus on sustainability is evident in its design; the Celebrity Flora, for example, is equipped with a dynamic positioning system that helps protect delicate marine habitats, and all excursions are structured to minimize human impact on the environment. Guests can also enjoy water-based activities like snorkeling and kayaking, getting up close to the abundant marine life, including sea lions, penguins, and marine turtles, in their natural habitats. The cruise’s commitment to environmental responsibility extends to its gourmet dining, which features locally sourced ingredients that support sustainable fishing practices. Furthermore, Celebrity works closely with conservation organizations such as the Charles Darwin Foundation to promote sustainable tourism and preserve the fragile ecosystems of the islands. Overall, Celebrity Cruises offers wildlife enthusiasts a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and eco-conscious exploration, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of the Galapagos while contributing to the preservation of its unique ecosystems.
Best affordable Galapagos cruise
For travelers craving the wild majesty of the Galapagos without the luxury price tag, Nature Galapagos & Ecuador delivers an authentic, expertly curated experience that doesn’t compromise on adventure. Specializing in small-ship and land-based tours, their budget-class cruises—aboard intimate yachts like the New Flamingo and Merak—offer access to remote islands, expert bilingual naturalist guides, and daily excursions that bring you face-to-face with marine iguanas and Galapagos tortoises. Accommodations are simple but comfortable, with snorkeling gear, meals, and inter-island logistics seamlessly included. A typical budget option sails for about $3,000 for a four‑ to five‑night cruise, while the more comprehensive eight‑day itineraries often come in around $7,000 per person. For those wanting to keep their feet on solid ground, land-based itineraries blend boutique hotels with day trips to uninhabited islands, offering flexibility and savings. With a strong commitment to conservation and community, Nature Galapagos crafts trips that feel deeply local, refreshingly affordable, and entirely unforgettable.
Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. For those who want to travel in style, the ships of luxury cruise line Ecoventura meet expectations—and then some.
Courtesy Ecoventura
Best luxury Galapagos cruise
Ecoventura offers one of the most luxurious—and family-friendly cruises—in the Galapagos. Each of its three expedition yachts—the Origin, Theory, and Evolve—can accommodate 20 guests across 10 staterooms. These seven-night all-inclusive voyages make environmental responsibility a priority, encouraging guests to join the effort to help preserve this delicate area. Children six and up are welcome on board. Some staterooms connect to create spacious family suites, and two are designed to accommodate three guests each. Kids menus, children’s activities, and a kids club are also available. For adults, there’s a fitness center, jacuzzi, cooking demonstrations, and group cooking classes. You’ll also find kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and zodiacs on board. On shore, naturalists lead daily two-hour nature walks, visiting lava fields, scenic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Replenish yourself at the onboard restaurant which serves a breakfast buffet, afternoon tea, and multi-course lunch and dinner menus.
Best Galapagos cruise for adventure seekers
Uncruise’s Galapagos island cruise will take you to seven islands over the course of a week on board La Pinta, a 48-passenger yacht boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a sundeck, a fitness center, and a hot tub. This isn’t the newest or most luxurious ship sailing the Galapagos, but it’s comfortable and has been recently refurbished. It also comes with everything you need to make the most of your Galapagos adventure—including kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, scuba equipment, and a glass-bottom boat. This is a Galapagos cruise where nature and wildlife take center stage: Hike Dragon Hill on Isla Santa Cruz while looking for iguanas and flamingos, paddleboard alongside sea lions at Isla Floreana, or enjoy a stroll along a secluded white-sand beach. This small cruise operator prides itself on cruises that don’t feel like cruises. If you think cruising isn’t your thing, Uncruise might change your mind.
Best Galapagos cruises for solo travelers
Join a small group of future friends on the Reina Silvia Voyager, G Adventures’ newest catamaran that’s custom-built for sailing the Galapagos. This vessel began sailing in 2022, and two of its 10 cabins are designed for solo travelers. These solo cabins are no tiny hideaways. Each comes with a queen-sized bed, desk, and a large picture window to frame your Galapagos view. A 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Quito, taking guests on a journey through the Central and East Islands to look for sea lions, iguanas, and a seemingly endless variety of birds. Go kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or paddleboarding—or kick back and relax on the spacious sundeck while enjoying some of the most unspoiled views in the world. There’s a chef on board to ensure you never go hungry, a hot tub to soothe sore muscles, lots of spaces for socializing when you want to, and a bar that’s perfect for sunset cocktails.
Best small ship Galapagos cruise
Avalon Waterways may be better known for its European river cruises, but it also sails the Galapagos Islands. The Treasure of the Galapagos is a gorgeous small ship, carrying a maximum of 16 guests. And while there’s no long list of restaurants onboard, there are creative, locally inspired menus featuring seasonal ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. You’ll also find daily natural history lectures, a team of multilingual naturalists, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, and a plunge pool.
If you have family members who are keen on science and nature, then the science center on board the Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II will be sure to delight.
Courtesy Santa Cruz II
Best Galapagos cruises for families
There may be no better way to get your kid interested in science and history than a Galapagos Islands cruise on board Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II. The ship operates a Citizen Science Program, enlisting guests to help with completing research projects. There’s also a science center on board and a slate of lectures and expert-led discussions. The HX In Darwin’s Footsteps itinerary follows the famous evolutionary biologist’s journey through the Galapagos. Walk along a beach Darwin visited in 1835, see the giant tortoises, which have a lifespan of over 100 years, that may have greeted him nearby, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, which helps care for endangered baby tortoises. Only about 15,000 Galapagos tortoises remain in existence, and there really is no better place to learn about them or the endangerment of wildlife. While there’s no specific kids programming, children six and up are welcome onboard the MS Santa Cruz II.
Best Galapagos cruise for lifelong learners
If you grew up reading National Geographic magazine, you’ll want to hop on board the National Geographic Gemini. The ships sails the Galapagos as part of a partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic, two legendary names in exploration. National Geographic experts lead these journeys and they’re often joined by National Geographic photographers. Kids can join the National Geographic Global Explorers program, a hands-on experience designed to teach them about geographic exploration and scientific research. The National Geographic Gemini can accommodate up to 48 passengers in 27 guest suites. More than a dozen suites come with private balconies, one of which is large enough to accommodate a private hot tub. (Don’t fret if that suite is already booked, there’s a whirlpool hot tub on the sundeck that’s open to all guests.) You’ll also find a well-stocked library, a well-stocked bar, and meals made with locally sourced ingredients on board.
Silversea offers both polar-class expedition ships and ocean liners that sail to more than 900 destinations across all seven continents.
Fiippo Vinardi/Silversea Cruises
Best Galapagos cruise for foodies
If you want to learn about Ecuadorian cuisine while sailing the Galapagos, Silversea may be the cruise line for you. Silversea is a luxury cruise line known for its next-level onboard dining programs. Learn all about the local cuisine from the ship’s executive chef while feasting on locally sourced meat and produce—you can try Ecuadorian cheese aged in lava tubes and even make ceviche during a hands-on cooking demonstration. The Silver Origin’s onboard restaurants serve a mix of international, traditional, and modern Ecuadorian food, and vegans and vegetarians aren’t afterthoughts here. Each Silversea suite comes with the service of a butler; most have private teak verandas as well. Silversea’s Silver Origin is one of the largest ships sailing the Galapagos Islands, but these voyages regularly sell out, so be sure to book early.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
