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When deciding what to wear on a Galapagos cruise, it’s always important to remember that the Galapagos Islands are an Expedition Destination. This means that a trip to the archipelago offers one of the most hands-on and up-close adventures you’ll ever have when experiencing a destination. That being said, guests must know that any fancy or formal attire is the last thing you’ll need on a Galapagos cruise, as you’ll be out and about exploring the islands throughout the more significant part of the day!
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Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
So what should I wear on a Galapagos Cruise?
Each component of our Galapagos expeditions has its unique look and feel when selecting a proper outfit. So, if you’re wondering what to wear on a Galapagos cruise, follow along as we list and detail the 3 primary looks you’ll need to pack for.
What should I wear for a Galapagos excursion?
This is the look you’ll be sporting throughout the more significant part of your day in the Galapagos. As such, these clothes must be a.) lightweight and b.) neutrally colored (bright, flashy colors disturb wildlife and/or may attract certain insects).
1. Hat or Cap and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat will help shield your head and face from the bright Galapagos sun. Ensure it has a neck strap to prevent it from being blown away by strong breezes!
2. Backpack: Have a bag or daypack handy (or purchase one from our onboard boutique) to carry essentials like a water bottle, camera, sunblock, and towel.
3. Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harsh UV rays with a good pair of sunglasses (with UV protection). These rays are powerful in the Galapagos and can reflect off the water. Ensure your sunglasses have neck straps, too.
4. Long-sleeve Shirt: Opt for lightweight and breathable long-sleeve shirts. We recommend protecting yourself from the sun via clothing. If it gets too hot, you can always roll up your sleeves! Check out these long-sleeve shirts. You can also buy them at our onboard boutique!
5. Walking Stick: We provide our guests with walking sticks for their explorations.
6. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential in the Galapagos. We provide all our guests with a complimentary stainless steel water bottle. These can be refilled at designated water stations on our vessels.
7. Trekking Pants: Cotton or synthetic trekking pants or shorts are ideal. We suggest wearing pants to protect your body from the sun as much as possible. Bonus points for zip-off/convertible shorts for when it gets too hot! Quick-dry pants/shorts are a plus! Alternatively, guests can wear their swimming shorts throughout the hiking excursion, allowing them to dive into the refreshing waters of the Galapagos right after their hike. Check out these convertible trekking pants.
8. Comfortable Socks: Pack a fresh, dry pair of breathable hiking socks for each day of your itinerary.
9. Swimsuit: Wear a comfortable swimsuit under your wetsuit or long-sleeve shirt.
10. Sport Sandals / Hiking Shoes: The Galapagos Islands’ terrain includes sand, gravel, and volcanic rocks. Wear comfortable and sturdy hiking boots/shoes (no flip-flops!) for your hikes. Trails are well-marked but can be uneven in parts. Bring a pair of rugged, water-resistant sandals for disembarking the dinghy to avoid your boots or socks soaked during wet landings. Here are some hiking shoes suggestions. For disembarking from the dinghy, consider these types of sandals.
11. Light Windbreaker/Rain Jacket: The Galapagos rarely gets cold. Unless you’re heading to the highlands where it’s cooler, this is just a precautionary item we recommend. Light rains are usually seen in the Hot Season and typically last only a few hours.
Wondering how difficult our activities are in the Galapagos Islands? Click here to find out!
What should I wear during Galapagos aquatic activities?
Note: Aquatic activities are optional. Alternatives will be offered to our guests in the form of rides aboard our glass-bottom boat and/or coastal explorations aboard our dinghies.
The Galapagos Islands are regarded as one of the best places in the world to go snorkeling! Consequently, it’s no surprise that our multi-guided vessels offer various simultaneous aquatic activities throughout the day! These can range from snorkeling to kayaking to paddle boarding, even! So, if you’re going to get wet, it’s best to dress the part! Here’s a look at the swimwear and gear that we recommend for Galapagos.
1. Snorkeling Mask: We provide a complete snorkeling mask for all our guests at no additional cost.
2. Long-sleeve Wetsuit: If you find the waters of the Galapagos too cold (average: 25 °C / 77 °F), consider renting a long-sleeve wetsuit. These are available for rent on all our vessels. For guests on our yachts (La Pinta al Isabela II), the cost of the wetsuits is already included in your package.
3. Swimsuit: Pack a comfortable swimsuit for swimming and snorkeling.
4. Snorkeling Fins: We include fins as part of the complimentary snorkeling gear.
5. Sunblock: Remember to bring ocean-safe sunblock. If you’re wearing a wetsuit, apply sunblock to only the exposed parts of your body.
6. Towel: We provide complimentary towels for our guests on all our vessels.
Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
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How should I dress for a Galapagos cruise breakfast/lunch/dinner?
“What should I wear on board?” is a frequently posed question. After your day full of adventures, you’ll be eager to return to your temporary abode to unwind and contemplate the day’s experiences. Indeed, even though the Galapagos is an Expedition Destination, you’ll have opportunities to engage in leisure activities aboard our Galapagos cruises during designated times (noon and evening). While participating in these activities, it’s important to remember that our dress code across all three vessels is simple:
- Guests cannot enter the restaurant or dining areas barefoot, shirtless, or wet.
- There is no requirement for formal or fancy attire in our onboard restaurants.
In essence, comfort is key while dining on our cruises.
Besides that, you’re free to dress as comfortably as possible! Here’s some pointers for what to wear while you’re onboard:
1. Casual, comfortable clothing:
– Ladies: T-shirts, blouses, pants, shorts, skirts, or dresses.
– Men: Shorts, jeans, pants, t-shirts, or button-up shirts.
2. Casual footwear: Sneakers or non-slip sandals (i.e., Crocs)
KEEP IN MIND: Many items mentioned above can be purchased at our onboard boutiques.
