There are dozens of luxury yachts and small cruise ships that sail the Galapagos. Here's how to choose which one is the best fit for you.
Luxurious small yachts carry from 12 to 20 passengers and have a more intimate feel and more personalized service than the relatively larger luxury cruises to Galapagos which carry from 48 to 100 guests. Larger vessels tend to be more stable in the water (for passengers prone to seasickness), though small luxury catamarans such as the Cormorant II, Ocean Spray and the Petrel are more stable than small single hulled yachts.
The greatest luxury cruises to Galapagos give you the ability to stay there longer! Longer cruises cost correspondingly more per day. The length of your Galapagos Islands luxury cruise may be the most important factor in choosing your trip to Galapagos. Most cruise boats offer 4-day, 3-night cruise packages which are significantly lower price than longer cruises of 5 to 15 days. But, on a 4-day, luxury Galapagos tour, you only get to spend two full days on the islands, and most experts agree that this simply isn't enough time.
Shorter cruises tend to visit either the Central or Southern Galapagos Islands, whereas longer cruises have the time to explore the more remote Western Islands and can even do a 15-day circumnavigation of the Galapagos. What itinerary is best for you depends on how much time you have to explore, and what wildlife and visitor spots are the highest priority for your trip. Use our wildlife guide to understand where your highest-priority species live in one of our many Galapagos luxury tours.
Stay in a beautiful hotel after your luxury cruise to Galapagos Islands and take full advantage of your time. You’ll get to explore areas not accessible on Galapagos luxury cruises. Also, consider a tour extension to the Amazon region of Ecuador, where luxury lodges such as La Selva Lodge and Sacha Lodge introduce travelers to the planet's most biodiverse region. Venture on the ultimate South American luxury expedition to the Galapagos and Machu Picchu.
There are so many high-end yachts and small ships in Galapagos to choose from that it's hard to know where to start. Here's some of our favorites:
Most of the luxury cruises to Galapagos are among the newest vessels in the islands. They provide some of the best small yacht experiences due to spacious rooms, dining halls, modern minimalistic design, and are relatively stable in the water versus single hull yachts. Our favorite small luxury cruises to Galapagos are the Petrel , Cormorant II, Ocean Spray, Alya and the ultra-luxury Hermes Mega Catamaran.Celebrity Xploration.
Expertly Designed Small-Group Tours: Embark on exclusive Galapagos luxury tours. These journeys are meticulously crafted to provide insider access and an intimate small-group experience, ensuring a personalized adventure.
Small-Ship Cruises: Explore the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands on small-ship cruises. Choose from four- to six-night journeys or opt for private Tailor Made expeditions featuring exclusive charters. Sail in comfort and style in your luxury cruise to Galapagos Islands, immersing yourself in the beauty of the islands.
Luxury Family Vacations: Create lifelong memories with your family on a luxury Galapagos cruise and Ecuador vacation. Family adventure experts curate small-group family journeys or custom private Tailor Made travel, tailored to suit your family's preferences. Ideal for holidays and celebrations, these trips ensure an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Tailor Made Tours: Elevate your travel experience with private luxury Tailor Made tours to the Galapagos and Ecuador. Experts will design a bespoke tour exclusively for you, catering to your preferences. Enjoy customized luxury adventures, accommodations, private air transportation, and more.
Memorable Meals: Fuel your adventures with exquisite dining experiences on one of these Galapagos luxury cruises. Experienced chefs prepare daily delicacies that cater to individual tastes and preferences, ensuring that every meal becomes a cherished memory.
Seamless Ship-to-Shore Access: Enjoy easy daily excursions and guided adventures with convenient access to the islands. Expeditions on these Galapagos luxury cruises are designed to immerse you in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands swiftly and effortlessly.
Luxurious Stateroom Retreats: Indulge in relaxation and rejuvenation in refined staterooms after exhilarating days of exploration. Experience attentive service and eco-friendly amenities on your Galapagos luxury cruise, providing a serene oasis for rest and rejuvenation.
Local Expertise: Discover the Galapagos Islands through the eyes of expert Naturalist Guides. With a remarkable Guest to Guide ratio, they share their extensive knowledge, ensuring extraordinary encounters with unique wildlife and a deeper understanding of the islands' secrets.
Spectacular Wildlife Sightings: Witness incredible wildlife encounters, from sea turtles to sea lions and soaring birds. Galapagos luxury tours can afford you thrilling sightings every day, forging unforgettable connections with the islands' extraordinary biodiversity.*
Responsible Travel: Prioritize sustainability and conservation during your Galapagos luxury tour. Minimize your impact on the environment, leaving a positive legacy for future generations to enjoy the remarkable beauty of the islands.
*Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed
Shore Excursions in Small Intimate Groups: Embark on captivating shore excursions that reveal the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. Explore exclusive visitor sites, accompanied by certified naturalist guides who will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the unique wildlife and volcanic landscapes, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.
Fine Dining and Beverages: Enjoy the freedom of open-seating dining, allowing you to dine at your leisure and savor carefully curated menus featuring fresh ingredients and delectable dishes. Throughout your Galapagos luxury cruise, beverages, including selected wines and spirits, are provided, enhancing your onboard experience with a touch of indulgence.
Personalized Service: Experience the epitome of personalized service throughout your luxury cruise to Galapagos Islands, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. Dedicated onboard staff is committed to attending to your needs, making your luxury cruise an unforgettable and tailored experience.
Medical Officer on Board: Travel with peace of mind knowing that a qualified medical officer is available on board, providing medical assistance if needed. Your safety and well-being are of utmost importance during your Galapagos luxury cruise.
Exclusive Visitor Sites: Discover the hidden gems of the Galapagos Islands with access to exclusive visitor sites. These sites offer a more intimate and less crowded experience, allowing you to witness the pristine beauty of the islands and forge deeper connections with nature.
Private and Safe: Rest assured that all Galapagos luxury cruises implement stringent measures, hygiene regulations, and management processes to ensure a private and safe environment. Your well-being is our top priority throughout your journey.
Ample Personal and Social Spaces: Enjoy generous personal and social spaces on board Galapagos luxury cruises, including sophisticated lounges and observation decks. These areas provide the perfect setting to unwind, socialize, and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Immersive Activities: Delve into the magic of the archipelago through guided activities that cater to your sense of adventure during these Galapagos luxury tours. Explore the captivating underwater world through kayaking, snorkeling, and other exciting activities, provided with top-quality equipment for your daily excursions.