The Galapagos Islands sit astride the Equator about 600 miles off Ecuador’s coast, a volcanic archipelago where wildlife has evolved with minimal human interference. For most visitors, a small-ship cruise is the only practical way to reach many landing sites, which are tightly regulated to protect habitats and species found nowhere else.
Cruises operate year-round and combine guided shore visits with snorkeling and wildlife viewing. The experience is structured, closely supervised by park-certified naturalists, and designed around conservation rules that shape everything from where ships can anchor to how long visitors spend on shore.
Planning matters. Costs are high, logistics are specific, and what travellers see depends heavily on season and route. The questions below outline what to know before booking, what life on board looks like, and how to prepare.
Before you book
The Galapagos are a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of 13 major islands, only four of which are inhabited. Landscapes range from stark lava fields to mangroves and lagoons, supporting species such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, penguins, and hundreds of bird species. Beaches exist, but wildlife, not resort time, defines the visit.
Getting there requires at least two flights. International travellers first reach mainland Ecuador, usually Quito, then fly on to the islands, typically landing at Seymour Airport on Baltra, with some itineraries using San Cristobal. There are no direct UK to Ecuador flights. Total travel time to Ecuador is generally 15 hours or more, excluding connections. No visa is required for Ecuador stays under 90 days.
Most cruise packages include a pre-cruise hotel night in Quito and domestic flights to and from the islands. On arrival in the Galapagos, luggage is screened to prevent the introduction of organic material. Baggage allowances are strict, commonly one checked bag up to 23kg and carry-on limits around 10kg.
There is no single best month to visit, but wildlife activity changes through the year. The warmer, wetter season from December to May brings calmer seas and warmer water, making it a good period for snorkeling and observing sea turtles. The cooler, drier months from June to November see nutrient-rich currents that attract whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and migrating humpback whales. August and September are typically the coolest months.
Bird and reptile activity also varies. Marine iguanas display brighter colouring early in the year, land iguana hatchings occur around May, and several seabirds, including blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants, begin breeding in mid-year. Individual islands host different species, so itineraries matter.
Prices reflect limited capacity and remote logistics. Cruise-only packages, including domestic flights but excluding international airfare, commonly range from about £5,000 to £9,000 per person. International flights from the UK add roughly £1,500. Ships are capped at 100 passengers, with many carrying far fewer.
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Passenger numbers are limited by park rules, not ship size.
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Wildlife viewing is seasonal and varies by island.
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Most sites are accessible only with a licensed guide.
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Costs usually include park fees and onboard activities.
Life on board
Days are structured around two guided excursions, typically one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Activities can include short hikes, beach landings, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and wildlife observation from small inflatable boats known as pangas.
Visitors must remain on marked trails and follow strict distancing rules around animals. All excursions are led by Galapagos National Park–certified naturalists, who also deliver onboard briefings and evening talks covering geology, evolution, and conservation.
Itineraries are carefully planned and approved by park authorities. Seven-night cruises often follow either an eastern or western circuit. Eastern routes may include islands such as Española, Genovesa, and North Seymour, while western itineraries reach Isabela and Fernandina, alongside stops at islands like Santiago, Bartolomé, and Santa Cruz. Landings can change if sites are temporarily closed for environmental protection.
Fares typically cover accommodation, all meals, excursions, transfers, and park-related fees, including the Galapagos National Park entrance charge and tourist card. Equipment such as wetsuits, snorkeling gear, kayaks, and walking sticks is commonly provided. Many ships include an open bar, onboard Wi-Fi, laundry services, and gratuities.
Facilities vary by vessel but are designed for education rather than entertainment. Some ships feature science centres, underwater cameras, or glass-bottom boats. Pools, hot tubs, small gyms, and spas are common, while evenings are usually quiet, centred on briefings rather than shows.
Before you go
Packing should focus on practicality. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is best, with long sleeves for sun protection and layers for cooler mornings. Sturdy walking shoes are essential for uneven terrain, and water shoes help during wet landings.
A hat, sunglasses, high-factor sunscreen, insect repellent, and a waterproof daypack are standard kit. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching, and swimwear is necessary for snorkeling and onboard facilities. Space is limited, so packing light is encouraged.
With careful preparation and realistic expectations, a Galapagos cruise offers access to one of the world’s most closely protected ecosystems, under rules designed to ensure that wildlife, not visitors, remains at the centre of the experience.
