Skip to content 
The world is ever-changing, which we need to acknowledge now more than ever. As the current situation we are facing globally changes the way we do basic things, like grocery shopping, commuting, and even greeting people, travelers worldwide need to start rethinking the adventures on which they want to embark. One of the most valuable things we can learn right now is that choosing the right destination to visit is essential and make the most of your journey by knowing the best time to visit the Galapagos for optimal wildlife encounters.
This challenge has necessitated reconfiguring every process throughout our client’s travel experience in Ecuador. This includes domestic flights, ground transportation, land and sea accommodations, activities, site visits, food, beverages, etc. Each service provider must assume new responsibilities: learning how to assess and identify health risks that could potentially endanger travelers. Protocols and procedures aimed at reducing contagion risk at every stage of the operation heavily depend on the cooperation of airports and airlines, ground transportation providers, hotels, restaurants, and their staff in the destinations we offer.
Considering this, we would like to introduce you to the Galapagos Islands – a destination fit for people who dream of traveling again and exploring the world in an intimate and expedition-focused way!
No massive cruise ships sail in the Galapagos Islands
Firstly, unlike many coastal destinations worldwide, the Galapagos Islands restrict Mega Cruise Ships from entering their waters. Only vessels carrying up to 100 passengers are permitted in the archipelago, a small number compared to the staggering 6,000 passengers that some charter cruises can hold.
This restriction ensures the preservation of the wildlife by the Galapagos National Park and its diverse inhabitants, ranging from delightful penguins to majestic hammerhead sharks, and enhances the experience for visitors sailing through the islands.
The Galapagos Islands offer an unparalleled expedition experience. Rather than a typical tourist destination, this archipelago provides a unique encounter with its distinct endemic species and the untouched splendor of a pristine volcanic landscape. The ship used for such a high-caliber expedition, known as an expedition cruise, should serve as a conduit to the surroundings, enhancing rather than distracting from the breathtaking beauty around you.
TALK TO A DESTINATION EXPERT
Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
Diego Zapata
Rosa Mena
Sandy Lara
Did you know?
Even though we often refer to our expedition vessels as “cruises or yachts” according to definitions provided by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Cruise Critic, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), based on gross tonnage and the number of passengers aboard, these are the actual ships that sail in the Galapagos Islands:
| Type of vessel (According to definitions used by the CDC and CLIA) | Gross registered tonnage (GRT) | Number of passengers |
|---|---|---|
| Super Mega Cruise Ships (Can’t sail in the Galapagos Islands) | More than 200,000 | Approximately 6,000 |
| Mega Ships (Can’t sail in the Galapagos Islands) | More than 150,000 | Approximately 3,000 |
| Large Ships (Sail in the Galapagos Islands) | Less than 100,000 | Approximately 100 |
| Medium Ships (Sail in the Galapagos Islands!) | Less than 30,000 | Approximately 50 |
| Small Ships (Sail in the Galapagos Islands!) | Less than 10,000 | Approximately 20 |
Plus, the average linear distance between passengers we have right now is 17 feet!
While sailing in the Galapagos, don’t expect to find the typical tourist amenities that Mega Cruise Ships tend to offer, such as discotheques, casinos, pools with wave simulators, Laser Tag arenas, and movie theaters. Why board a ship only to do the same things you can do every day? Instead, Galapagos expedition yachts offer relaxation, introspection, and learning spaces. They foster pleasant gatherings with like-minded travelers, provide a cozy bar and dining area with personalized attention, and so much more!
The Galapagos offers exclusive access to breathtaking, uninhabited islands
Mega cruise ships transport passengers to the world’s most congested ports. The number of people who disembark each time these cruises port is staggering. Add this number to the individuals already in the port; you’ve got quite a crowd! Cities like Venice or certain Caribbean ports can be completely overrun with tourists. However, the Galapagos is different. Since most of the archipelago is a National Park, only 3% of the entire area is inhabited by humans. The remaining 97%, where you’ll spend most of your time, is entirely dedicated to the animals! Due to its unique flora and fauna, the Galapagos enforces one of the strictest conservation policies to minimize human presence on these extraordinary islands.
In the Galapagos, you’ll encounter pristine islands and visitor sites free of permanent human presence. Additionally, island visits are restricted in terms of group size and duration. Whether you visit the Galapagos National Park as part of a day tour or aboard an expedition cruise, you can enjoy visitor sites in a small group setting. The best expedition yachts offer even more exclusivity when granted exclusive access to visitor sites.
The Galapagos Islands is a highly regulated destination
The Galapagos National Park authorities meticulously regulate the influx of tourists to the Islands. To begin with, there are no direct international flights to the Galapagos Islands; only domestic flights from Quito and Guayaquil are available. This measure significantly aids in controlling the volume of tourists that journey to the archipelago. Moreover, travelers’ luggage is inspected before departure for the Galapagos and again upon arrival at the Baltra Island and San Cristobal Island airports. Once it’s confirmed that the contents won’t threaten the endemic species and the natural equilibrium of the Islands, luggage is sealed and tagged to indicate it has passed inspection. Passengers can only exit the National Institute for the Galapagos (INGALA) control area.
These measures ensure that only mega groups are wandering the islands with restrictions. The ecosystems in the Galapagos are incredibly delicate, and by keeping a close eye on the number of visitors, the GNP can safeguard the health of wildlife in the Enchanted Isles. The number of tourists in the Galapagos National Park, which spans approximately 3,089 square miles (8,000 square kilometers), is around 65,000 annually. In comparison, a single world-class sporting event can attract roughly 90,000 attendees!
Thanks to the strict limit on ship size, the Galapagos Marine Reserve remains protected from industrial fishing, pollution, and disease vectors. Even large cargo ships are prohibited from sailing through!
So, while the Galapagos Islands are a uniquely spectacular destination, the number of visitors remains regulated and well-managed. Many measures are in place to preserve the islands’ fauna and flora and ensure the Galapagos’ ecosystems remain intact. Rest assured, you can enjoy a relaxed and exclusive vacation when you come to this natural, secluded paradise!
You’ll always have access to a healthcare professional and a Park-certified guide
Our recommendation: Always inquire with your destination expert or travel advisor to determine if your chosen Galapagos expedition vessel includes this crucial feature. Keep in mind that not all ships in the Galapagos do!
You’ll find yourself in a remote location when traveling aboard an expedition vessel in the Galapagos. However, you can rest easy knowing that a fully licensed doctor with marine experience is available 24/7. This professional is intimately familiar with all aspects of the Galapagos.
Two important factors contribute to your safety and any potential treatment you may require. Firstly, at each site you visit and during every activity you participate in, you will always be accompanied by a Galapagos National Park-certified guide. These individuals have undergone extensive training and study to become your hosts in this magnificent location. They are well-versed in all the wildlife and terrain you’ll encounter throughout the expedition, and in case of any injury, they are equipped with first aid training to provide initial care until the onboard medical officer can attend to you. Secondly, each vessel boasts a well-equipped and well-stocked medical treatment facility. Regardless of the situation, the onboard medical officer stands ready to assist you!
Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Javier Garcia
Eduardo Silva
Carolina Escobar
Get in touch for more
CONTACT US
