FAQs about Galapagos: Which Galápagos cruise class is best if I get seasick?

It depends more on the boat than its class. Voyagers recommends larger vessels for families because they offer more shared space and connecting cabins [6]. Smaller First Class yachts and catamarans can also work well for families who prefer a smaller group, where guides may have more opportunities to give children individual attention [13].

Based on the sampled boat pages, Luxury boats offer features such as suites, private balconies on most boats, and more crew per guest. For example, Endemic carries 10 crew members for 16 guests, compared with 8 crew members on Tip Top II [14]. However, Voyagers states that both classes follow the same itineraries [12].

Voyagers lists Level II or III guides on First Class and Luxury boats [11]. Under the 2016 guide regulations, the former Level II corresponds to Tourism Heritage Guide I, while the former Level III corresponds to Tourism Heritage Guide II. Grade II requires B2 English proficiency and B1 proficiency in a second language.

No. Tourist Superior is a seller label for the tier between Economy and First Class. It isn't one of the four categories in Ecuador's regulations for tourist boats in the islands [1]. When comparing boats across booking sites, ask which category each boat is listed under in its tourism registration.

No, it depends on the boat. Wetsuits are included on Galaxy, Elite, Infinity, and Hermes, while most other boats sampled charge for rentals. Snorkeling gear costs extra on Darwin and Fragata but is included on Eden, Galaxy, Anahi, Coral I, and Coral II [14].

Yes. The Economy boats listed by Voyagers—Darwin, Golondrina, and Floreana—all have cabins with private bathrooms, hot water, and air conditioning [14]. The main differences at this level are the beds, which are usually bunks, and the more intimate shared spaces described on the class page [10].