FAQs about Galapagos: Should I charter?

Some cruises do not allow small children on board, mainly for safety reasons as small yachts/catamarans have many open spaces and steep stairs that are not suitable for children to run around. Other cruises, especially the large vessels do accept small children on board and even have qualified guides and staff on board to make a magical experience for small children.

Most yachts/catamarans accept children over 8 years-old on board and offer special rates to children up to 11 years-old for cruises and flights as per availability and feasibility to accommodate a Family on board; with all cruises, it is required as pre-requisite to have parents sign a release form if travelling with children.

You can visit the Galapagos any time of the year as there is always something wonderful happening in the Islands, especially with wildlife’s behavior and natural events.

From mid-June to early-December you have a mixture of warm and rain (afternoon showers), and Ocean waters are warmer and calmer due to the “El Niño” current. From mid-December to early-June is the cool/dry season on land and Ocean, especially because of the passing of the “Humboldt” current through the Archipelago.

Choosing the right cruise is critical if you are susceptible to seasickness; large vessels are the best choice as they’re very stable when sailing. If you do not like large vessels, then we recommend choosing a nice catamaran (twin-haul), which also offer smooth sailing for passengers’ comfort.

You can also ask your doctor to prescribe you medicine to help you contrast the effect of the motion when sailing; it is also important to be properly hydrated during your cruise as this also helps prevent the effects.

Land visits are a recommended alternative if not taking a sailing cruise in the Galapagos; you spend the nights at a comfortable Hotel and every day you have day-trips whether on the same Island or take a yacht to a nearby Island where you will enjoy different activities like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, swimming always surrounded by amazing and untamed Wildlife and breathtaking scenarios, accompanied by a certified Bilingual professional Guide to make your experience on each site more enjoyable each day.

For cruises and tours, we have flexible payment policies:

• Tours booked from 91 days or more, small 30% deposit is requested to pre-confirm, 70% balance is needed 90 days before tour dates.
• Tours booked 90 days or less, complete payment is needed to confirm your trip.

There are a couple of ATM’s in Puerto Ayora and San Cristobal, but sometimes they ran out of cash to withdraw, therefore is recommended to bring enough cash (U.S. Dollars) from the Mainland for peace of mind and be able to pay for additional matters during your trip. You will find ATM’s at Quito and Guayaquil’s Airports and on main tourism districts on both cities.