Galapagos cruises

Best Galapagos Cruise Ships - Expedition Ship profiles for 2024 – 2025

Galapagos cruise ships carry 100 guests or less. These smaller ships are expertly fitted for expedition travel. With one of a kind shore excursions and expert guides leading the way, you're not just a spectator—you're part of the adventure. It's about embracing the elements, spotting rare wildlife up close, and making memories that are as unique as the islands themselves. So get ready to explore untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters like never before.

Experience a fleet of hand chosen vessels, inspected and reviewed by the Voyagers Galapagos experts, These vessels are as distinctive and diverse as the islands they sail to with Galapagos cruises.

Biggest real time availability of Galapagos cruises, over 3000 available departures in 2024, over 8000 available departures in 2025, 82 hand selected yachts to choose from

Low to High

Luxury Meets Wilderness

Boarding one of these ships feels like stepping into a secret society where luxury and wilderness have struck an unlikely alliance. Picture this: You've spent your day mingling with blue-footed boobies and ancient tortoises, and now you’re sipping on a Pisco sour under starlit skies. Each ship in our fleet offers its own spin on this dreamy experience.

From independent expedition ships like the Galapagos Legend, once served as a hospital ship, to state-of-the-art custom build Celebrity Flora boasting private balconies and glamping options – every detail is tailored to enhance your connection with nature without compromising on comfort.

Itineraries Planned for Expedition

Beyond Just A Cabin Number

Aboard these floating havens, guests aren't just another cabin number; they become part of an exclusive club set out to discover the untouched splendors of Darwin’s playground. With typically no more than 100 fellow explorers – often far fewer – personal attention isn’t just promised; it’s practically unavoidable.

The crews know each passenger by name before casting off from port because here everyone is VIP—no backstage passes needed when there are naturalist guides sharing insider knowledge about everything from lava formations to local conservation efforts at dinner tables or while lounging beside plunge pools on deck.

Treading Lightly in Paradise

In paradise such delicate ecosystems call for conscientious travel companions. These cruises don't just tread lightly; they dance respectfully across waterways with advanced purification systems and energy-efficient technologies that help keep their environmental footprint as light as possible.

Key Takeaway: 

Galapagos cruise ships blend luxury with nature, offering personalized experiences and eco-friendly practices to make your adventure both indulgent and responsible.

Navigating the Differences: Expedition Ships vs. Traditional Cruises

Think of traditional cruises as floating luxury hotels, with their grand ballrooms and Broadway-style shows. Now picture a Galapagos expedition ship as your rugged, yet cozy basecamp—your gateway to encounters with flightless cormorants and marine iguanas. The difference? It's like comparing a lavish banquet to an exclusive safari dinner under the stars.

Size Matters: Intimacy Over Crowds

The size of these vessels is more than just numbers; it shapes your entire journey. While mainstream cruise liners often carry thousands of passengers, sailing on one can feel like being at a bustling city festival where you're just another face in the crowd. On an expedition ship in the Galapagos, carrying fewer guests means personal attention isn't spread thin—it's concentrated, like espresso shots for your travel experience.

This intimacy extends beyond service to space itself; less crowded decks mean unobstructed views as you glide past volcanic islands that look almost prehistoric.

Dive Deeper into Adventure

If regular cruises skim the surface of destinations like stones across water, then Galapagos expeditions plunge you headfirst into deep adventure territory. Here’s why:

  • You won’t simply see sights; you’ll live them—from snorkeling alongside sea lions to walking paths laden with iguanas basking in equatorial sunbeams.

Smaller Ship, Bigger Experience: 

Forget the big cruise ships and their sea of faces. Think small, think Galapagos expedition ships. They're like your personal espresso shot of adventure—rich, intimate, and designed to tread lightly on Earth's treasures.

You don't just see nature; you dive into it. It's about snorkeling with sea lions, not watching from a balcony. On these voyages, every view is unobstructed and every experience is up close and personal.

All-Inclusive Journeys on the Waves

Picture this: you're gliding through the Galapagos, with every need met before you even ask. That's the magic of an all-inclusive cruise here. Think gourmet meals, personal guides, and your own slice of paradise at sea.

Gourmet Meals with a View

You wake up to fresh coffee aromas wafting from the dining room. Breakfast is no small affair – we're talking local fruits that burst with flavor and eggs any style, just how you like them. Lunch and dinner? They’re events in their own right - culinary feasts paired perfectly with panoramic ocean views that make each bite taste better than the last.

Eating becomes an exploration too. Chefs onboard fuse Ecuadorian flavors with international cuisine to give your taste buds a trip around the world while anchored amidst ancient islands.

Guided Tours: The Heartbeat of Adventure

Your naturalist guide isn't just knowledgeable; they live for this stuff. With eyes like hawks and stories for days, they lead expeditions ashore where iguanas bask in sunbeams or Darwin’s finches are hopping around without taking notice of you. Every hike or snorkel session turns into an episode of Planet Earth—except it’s real life.

Nights are different out here as well—the stars tell ancient tales above while below deck another story unfolds during insightful lectures about conservation efforts keeping these islands pristine.

The Suite Life at Sea

Cabins aren’t mere sleeping quarters; think floating boutique hotels that cradle you after long days exploring rugged coastlines or diving among neon fish schools. And forget clunky keys—modern tech lets doors swing open to reveal private havens designed down to pillow choice because comfort shouldn't be left onshore when adventure calls at sea.

A Seamlessly Curated Experience

That's the beauty of an all-inclusive package—it’s all about diving into the experience without worrying about extra charges. Every detail of your journey, from kayaking to donning wetsuits, is taken care of in the package - guaranteeing an effortless transition between activities.

Ship Experience: 

Imagine cruising the Galapagos where gourmet meals, expert guides, and luxe cabins come standard. It's all about savoring every moment without sweating the small stuff.

Dive into adventure with everything included—from kayaks to wetsuits—and zero surprise fees. This is your ticket to a seamless sea escapade.

Curated Itineraries for Maximum Discovery

Imagine being the captain of your own adventure, charting a course through an ecosystem teeming with life that's both peculiar and majestic. That's what Galapagos cruise ships offer – not just transport from one island to another but a finely woven tapestry of experiences, tailored for those hungry to explore every nook and cranny of Darwin’s playground.

The Art of Crafting Your Journey

There's an art to planning the perfect itinerary in the Galapagos. The best routes don't happen by chance; they're like recipes perfected over time. Picture this: One day you’re snorkeling with playful sea lions, and by evening you’re sipping on Ecuadorian coffee as sunsets paint the sky - each day is a new chapter in your very own nature documentary.

Your journey starts at iconic spots where Frigate birds inflate their pouches as part of mating rituals right before your eyes. But it doesn’t stop there because true discovery lies off the beaten path. Ever heard about Fernandina Island? It’s less frequented but boasts some of the archipelago’s most pristine ecosystems.

Waved Albatross | Punta Suarez | Española Island | Galapagos

A Deeper Dive into Wildlife Wonders

Diving deeper (sometimes literally), curated itineraries let adventurers witness natural wonders beneath waves or atop ancient volcanic formations—places where marine iguanas dive deep below while giant tortoises lumber along highland mists above. With specialized knowledge, guides help guests spot hard-to-find creatures such as camouflaged octopuses or whispering albatrosses taking flight for perhaps their first-ever voyage.

You'll visit islands so special they seem otherworldly—like Española Island during breeding season when waved albatrosses return home after months at sea—it feels like stepping into a living wildlife documentary crafted by Mother Nature herself.

Post Office Bay | Galapagos Islands

Mixing Culture with Nature

Cultural infusion adds spice to these journeys too. Stops at places like Post Office Bay invite travelers to participate in traditions dating back centuries—a quirky mail system established by whalers still used today among visitors wishing to connect across continents without WiFi signals or postal codes.

Sure, snapping pictures next to famous landmarks is a common practice for travelers. But let's not forget that capturing these moments also serves as a personal archive of our adventures. When we reflect on these pics, they don't just appear as snapshots; they narrate the tale of our trek and the experiences that we've had.

Beyond your ordinary travel experience: 

Galapagos cruises are more than travel; they're crafted adventures. Imagine a daily life-changing chapter, from swimming with sea lions to witnessing albatrosses take flight, all while soaking in the local culture and history.

Onboard Amenities That Enhance Your Expedition

The Galapagos cruise isn't just about the destination; it's also about the journey. Picture this: you're sailing across crystal-clear waters, surrounded by some of the most unique wildlife on Earth. But what makes this trip even more memorable? It's those little luxuries and smart amenities onboard that turn a great voyage into an extraordinary adventure.

Naturalist Guides: Your Personal Encyclopedias

Ever wished for a walking encyclopedia while exploring new terrains? On Galapagos cruises, naturalist guides are exactly that – brimming with knowledge, ready to answer your every query. They're like your personal Google but with a human touch, sharing fascinating insights into the archipelago’s ecosystem and creatures.

These expert storytellers don’t just point at things; they breathe life into every aspect of your expedition.

Observation Decks: The Ultimate Panoramic Experience

A good observation deck is worth its weight in gold—or should we say 'sunsets'? Think 360-degree views where horizons stretch endlessly and stars seem close enough to touch at night. Here you can sip on a cocktail as dolphins race alongside the ship or watch in awe as volcanic islands loom closer each day—truly priceless experiences that make sure binoculars become your best friends.

All Hands on Deck for Adventure Equipment

Sure, luxury cabins and fine dining are fantastic but getting up-close with nature—that's what sets these trips apart. Snorkeling gear lets you dive into another world where sea turtles glide gracefully beside you while wetsuits ensure cooler waters won't dampen any spirits (pun intended).

Kayaks wait patiently for paddlers eager to explore quiet coves inaccessible by larger boats whereas paddleboards offer serene moments above water—and maybe some laughs when balance proves trickier than expected.

Blending Luxury and Adventure:

Galapagos cruises blend luxury with adventure, offering expert guides and observation decks for an immersive experience. Gear up with snorkels or kayaks, and make waves while staying eco-friendly.

Citizen Science and Conservation Efforts at Sea

Embark on a luxury adventure with Galapagos cruise ships, where unparalleled wildlife encounters and exquisite amenities blend for an unforgettable expedition.

Your Role in Marine Research

Imagine cruising the Galapagos while contributing to vital conservation efforts. That's exactly what citizen science projects on board these unique expedition ships offer. As you glide through azure waters, every snapshot of wildlife and shared observation becomes a piece of the larger puzzle in understanding this precious ecosystem.

You're not just a passenger; you are an integral part of the research team. Citizen science allows travelers like you to get hands-on with data collection that supports ongoing scientific studies. Whether measuring water salinity or spotting rare bird species, your findings help scientists track environmental changes over time.

This isn't about making work for guests—far from it. It's an invitation to engage deeply with your surroundings and leave a positive mark long after your journey ends. You'll be trained by experts who are eager to share their knowledge, so even beginners can jump right into meaningful contributions without skipping a beat.

The Ripple Effect of Your Findings

Your participation has real-world impact: sightings contribute data crucial for preserving marine life populations. Imagine tracking sea turtles alongside biologists or logging fish varieties—all while sipping morning coffee on deck.

These activities don’t just feed databases; they inform conservation policies that protect habitats across the archipelago. The data collected might reveal patterns essential for policy-making or even lead to expanding protected marine areas, ensuring future generations can also experience this unspoiled wonderland.

Be A Part of Conservation: 

Dive into the Galapagos with cruises that mix luxury and science. You're not just sightseeing; you're joining research efforts to protect this paradise. Your photos and observations aid crucial studies, while eco-friendly ships show how tourism can boost conservation. It's adventure with a purpose.

Shore Excursions That Bring Adventure to Life

The Galapagos Islands aren't just another stop on a cruise; they're an otherworldly realm where the wildlife doesn’t just ignore you but often seems downright curious. 

Snorkeling with sea lions | Galapagos Islands

Wildlife Encounters Beyond Your Wildest Dreams

You've seen nature documentaries, but nothing prepares you for the visceral thrill of locking eyes with a giant tortoise that’s been roaming this earth since before your great-grandparents were born. Each island serves up its own cast of characters in an ecological ensemble: from the prehistoric-looking marine iguanas sunning themselves on black lava rocks to vibrant Sally Lightfoot crabs skittering across wet sands. And it's not just about watching—you'll be exploring these habitats right alongside them, led by expert naturalist guides who can spot a camouflaged critter from yards away and tell tales that turn every encounter into an unforgettable story.

Dive into pristine waters during carefully guided snorkeling trips where clouds of tropical fish part around you, revealing hidden worlds beneath waves. It's here among coral outcrops and submerged volcanic formations while penguins dart through schools of fish with astonishing speed—a symphony underwater only matched by the tranquility above.

Hiking in Galapagos

Hiking Trails Through Time-Stamped Terrain

Hiking in the Galapagos? That’s walking through chapters of Earth's history written in stone and ash underfoot. Venture onto paths less traveled across moonscape terrains leading to viewpoints so breathtaking they’ll knock whatever socks those blue-footed boobies haven’t stolen off your feet.

Your boots will crunch over ancient lava flows hardened into artistic swirls while dormant volcanoes loom overhead as silent sentinels—the same ones Charles Darwin marveled at when he set foot here almost two centuries ago. These trails are more than hikes; they’re journeys punctuated by bursts of color from unexpected flowers defying the odds to bloom in this rugged landscape, each step a testament to the tenacity of life.

The Best Part is Off the Ship: 

Galapagos excursions are alive with close-up wildlife encounters and trails that walk you through Earth's deep history, all led by guides who turn every moment into a story.

FAQs in Relation to Galapagos Cruise Ships

What is the newest celebrity ship to Galapagos?

Celebrity Cruises introduced their latest gem: The Celebrity Flora – a vessel marrying elegance with sustainability efforts.

What is the newest cruise ship in the Galapagos?

The Celebrity Flora debuted recently, boasting state-of-the-art design tailored for eco-conscious exploration.

Why are cruises to the Galapagos Islands so expensive?

Limited access and high demand drive up costs. Plus, your fare often covers guides, gear, and conservation fees.

Do any cruise ships go to the Galapagos Islands?

Absolutely. Various operators sail to the Galapagos, offering experiences that blend adventure with luxury.

Voyagers Travel Can help you book your expedition ship cruise in Galapagos

So you've explored the essence of Galapagos cruise ships. You know they're not just vessels; they're gateways to awe.

Dive into a world where luxury meets discovery, and comfort sails alongside adventure. With curated itineraries, every stop is a treasure trove of natural wonders.

Remember how these cruises differ from traditional ones? They’re intimate, less intrusive on nature, and bring you closer to wildlife than ever before.

Keep in mind those all-inclusive perks – gourmet meals with views and expert-led tours that turn moments into memories.

An expedition on the waves can offer a transformative perspective of our planet. That’s what Galapagos cruise ships are all about.

Contact one of Voyagers Travel Advisors and get assistance in booking the right Galapagos cruise ship for your adventure.