Embark on an exploration through one of the world’s most pristine natural destinations aboard a luxury Galapagos cruise. With expert naturalist guides and all-inclusive services, Galapagos cruises ensure unparalleled access to the Enchanted Islands’ unique wildlife and landscapes. Learn about the different Galapagos Island cruise options and choose your perfect cruise experience below.
Differences between Categories • View and Compare all Cruises
From intimate yachts for private groups to larger vessels offering enhanced stability, the size of your boat can shape your Galapagos expedition. Choose from:
8-day sample Galapagos itinerary aboard the Natural Paradise
If you want to get the inside scoop on traveling to the Galapagos Islands, look no further! Get Galapagos Travel Center's top 10 tips on how to travel to the Galapagos Islands, now!
Our luxury cruises combine exclusive remote island destinations with world-class comfort. Relax in spacious suites, dine on gourmet cuisine, and explore the Galapagos responsibly aboard vessels designed for minimal environmental impact. Experience the best of both worlds. Browse our luxury catamarans and cruises to the Galapagos Islands now!
Every Galapagos cruise is designed to maximize your experience with all-inclusive services, including:
Dive into the Galapagos' underwater wonders with our liveaboard diving cruises. Explore world-famous dive sites like Darwin and Wolf Islands, home to whale sharks, hammerheads, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. Live onboard your diving boat while you explore some of the best diving sites in the world where all your activities will be diving related! When choosing a liveaboard, you will be enjoying all meals and sleeping onboard these boats. These cruises are tailored for diving enthusiasts seeking the ultimate adventure.
Find Your Diving Cruise now!
Choosing the right Galapagos cruise depends on your voyage goals. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly first class yacht, a romantic luxury cruise, or a budget-friendly adventure, we’ll help you find the perfect match. Things to consider:
Learn more about the Galapagos and find your perfect travel style now!
Your dream Galapagos cruise is just a click away. Contact our travel experts to plan your personalized adventure today, spaces are filling up!
Q: What is the best time of year to take a Galapagos cruise?
A: The Galapagos is a year-round destination. However, based on the weather, there is a dry season (June–November), which is a little cooler, that is preferred for diving and the wet season (December–May), which is a little warmer. Whenever you choose to go on this unforgettable experience, you will surely experience natural wildlife encounters that the Islands have to offer, which includes sea lions, sea turtles, giant tortoises, blue footed boobies, short eared owls, marine iguanas, and so much more!
Q: How do I know if a luxury cruise is worth it?
A: Luxury cruises to the Galapagos Islands offer passengers a unique experience, providing guests with gourmet dining, spacious cabins, personalized service, and extra amenities onboard. Browse our selection of luxury catamarans and cruises to see if this is the best option for you!
Q: Are Galapagos cruises suitable for families?
A: Cruises absolutely cater to families and their needs, offering family-friendly itineraries and things to do. Activities like snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and gentle hiking are ideal for children, and guides are always present and happy to assist. Click here to learn more about family-focused Galapagos travel.
Q: What wildlife can I see on a Galapagos cruise?
A: No matter where you decide to visit in the Galapagos, you are guaranteed up close and personal diverse wildlife encounters in their natural habitats. Some of the most famous species are the giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, Galapagos penguins, and sea lions. It is important to note that some wildlife sightings depend on the island you visit and the time of year you visit.
Q: What’s included in the price of a Galapagos cruise?
A: All meals and guided excursions to the islands are included in the price of your cruise. Typically all snorkeling equipment and gear are included on most cruises, and if not, they are available for rent. Things such as National Park fees, flights, alcoholic beverages, and tips may not be included. Feel free to reach out to one of our experts with any questions about a specific boat.
Q: How eco-friendly are Galapagos cruises?
A: All Galapagos cruise operators follow strict National Park and international environmental practices, making environmental responsibility a priority. In addition, if you choose to travel with us at Galapagos Travel Center, we have our own environmental passion projects that you help support.
Q: What’s the difference between a small yacht and a larger cruise ship?
A: With a small yacht, you will usually have no more than 16 passengers abroad. This is best for guests looking for a more intimate environment and personalized service. Larger cruise ships typically offer more amenities and more stability for those prone to seasickness. Learn more about the differences here.
Still have questions? Contact our Galapagos travel experts now for personalized advice on your Galapagos cruise. We are happy to help you plan the trip of a lifetime!
Luxury |
First Class |
Mid-range |
Budget |
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Accommodation • Usually bigger cabins• More comfortable cabins • Often with private balconies • Premium bedding • High-end finishes • Deluxe bathrooms |
Accommodation • Comfortable and well-equipped• Usually smaller than luxury suites • Usually with windows, sometimes balconies • Private bathrooms |
Accommodation • Simple but clean and comfortable• Some have bunk beds • Smaller cabins |
Accommodation • Very basic — often small with bunk beds• Very small bathrooms |
|
Food & Drinks • High quality food• Gourmet meals • International and fusion cuisine prepared by top chefs • Often with more variety • Premium ingredients • A few include alcoholic drinks • Snacks station • Most have coffee/capuccino machines available • Most include soft drinks • Water, coffee and tea always available |
Food & Drinks • High-quality meals• Fresh local ingredients • Less emphasis on gourmet or international menus • Coffee, water and tea station available |
Food & Drinks • Good meals• Coffee, water and tea included |
Food & Drinks • Simple meals• Coffee, water and tea included |
|
Social Areas • More spacious lounges• Panoramic decks • All have a jacuzzi • Elegant bar and dinning areas • Stylish interiors |
Social Areas • Nice communal spaces (lounges, dining, sundecks)• Less spacious and elegant compared to luxury ships • Most have a jacuzzi |
Social Areas • Basic common areas |
Social Areas • Small social spaces |
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Service • Highest rated bilingual naturalist guides• More personalized service • Higher crew to guest ratio |
Service • Top bilingual naturalist guides• Excellent, though with a slightly lower staff-to-guest ratio than luxury vessels • Standard equipment (snorkel gear, wetsuits, kayaks) |
Service • Expert bilingual naturalist guides• Friendly staff |
Service • Certified bilingual naturalist guides• Small crew • Less personalized service |
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Extras • Extra ammenities• More generous inclusions • Snorkel gear always included (mask, fins, snorkel) • Wetsuit sometimes included • Kayaks (most are complimentary) |
Extras • Most include snorkeling gear• Wetsuit sometimes included • Kayaks and/or paddleboards (most are complimentary) |
Extras • Snorkel gear often included |
Extras • Limited amenities |
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Overal Vibe • Floating boutique hotel• Designed for maximum comfort and exclusivity |
Overal Vibe • Upscale but practical—focused on comfort and good value without all the ultra-luxury touches |
Overal Vibe • Experience over comfort |
Overal Vibe • Adventurous and economic |
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Best for • Travelers who want top comfort, privacy, and premium service |
Best for • Guests who want a balance of comfort, style, and value |
Best for • Travelers who prioritize the experience and wildlife over luxury |
Best for • Backpackers or adventurous travelers focused on affordability and nature, not comfort |
All cruise levels follow Galápagos National Park regulations, so wildlife experiences are equally amazing no matter the category.
