Practical Information about a visit to the Galapagos

Cruises are generally 8 days long, although some yachts offer 5, 4 and even 3-day itineraries. The shorter cruises we do not recommend, given that you will be coming a long way and not allowing enough time to really see the place. However, it is an option.

Each different boat has a particular set itinerary throughout the islands, that is approved way in advance by the Galapagos Park Authority. If however, you have a particular preference and wish to request your own itinerary, that is possible if you charter a boat and apply well in advance.

Most cruises are "Naturalist" cruises, that is, they are aimed at the generalist traveler that comes to learn about the wildlife in the Galapagos. In all the vessels, guides are fabulous, as they are all biologists and experts in the ecology of the region, and have to take and pass stringent exams to be licensed. Their language skills are also superb. The ratio of guides to travelers is generally 10:1. Visits to the Galapagos islands are highly regulated due to the fragile ecology of the area. This does not in any way detract from the experience. It is and hopefully will continue to be a magical experience. That is up to all of us and the respect we have to the fragile environment.

There are also diving cruises aimed at experienced divers whose goal is to see the underwater in the Galapagos. These itineraries will also involve some naturalist visits but are mainly geared at divers, so non-divers in the group should be aware. Other options are special "family departures" available in the larger boats, where small children have a special guide and activities geared to their age group that will keep them (and their parents!) extra happy. There are also "occasional diving" itineraries meaning the balance between diving visits and naturalist visits is equally balanced.