FAQs about Galapagos: Should I charter?

Although the Galapagos Islands are located in the Equator, but it has moderate, drier climate rather than typical tropical weather. This because of three confluent Ocean currents that determine the two yearly seasons in the Archipelago: cool/dry season from mid-June to early-December and the wet season from mid-December to early-June.

Average temperature range: 69°-84°F / 21°-30°C. Weather in Galapagos has variations on each season.

There are no established tipping guidelines for all cruises, you should decide the amount to tip your guide and crew based on your level of satisfaction with the services provided on board and while on excursions.

On Luxury and First class cruises it is recommended to tip $15-$20 p.p. for the guide per day and the same amount per day for the whole crew. On Midrange and Economy class cruises it is recommended to tip $10-$13 p.p. for the guide per day and the same amount per day for the whole crew.

In Ecuador Mainland and the Galapagos Archipelago, U.S. Dollar has been established and used as main and only currency since the year 2000. When making payments for your trip, you may do so in your local currency at up-to-date conversion.

Large luxury vessels have a Medic on board for passengers’ aid while on board. Small yachts/catamarans cannot offer this service due to the space on board. Note that your guide is properly trained to face emergencies and have first-aid training to assist passengers while cruising. Also all boats are equipped with satellite phones and have contact with Island authorities and emergency services, should they be required during a cruise. All cruises take passenger’s safety and well-being very seriously.

Depending on the time you have available for your Galapagos once in a life time adventure, and considering your budget, we recommend taking at least a 6 or 8-days cruise; of course, taking a longer cruise (12-15 days) will definitely give you a complete and very active adventure in the Galapagos paradise.

If you are taking a Galapagos Cruise or package, it is best if you book your domestic flights to/from Galapagos from Quito, Guayaquil or mixed route along with your cruise. This because cruises/tours must follow a pre-approved itinerary by the National Park’s Authorities, and all start their itinerary with specific arriving flights to the Islands, and cannot wait for stragglers arriving on different flights other than the one used by the rest of the group.

Catching a cruise when arriving on different flights that are delayed or arrive on different timings can be very expensive and in some cases, impossible, causing distress and unwanted non-refundable trip cancelations.

For this reason, all operators recommend booking your domestic flights along with your cruise or tour to align with the operation and avoid any issues. Get full details on logistics and traveling to the Galapagos.